I like the 12-inch MacBook as a “secondary” Mac — but I don’t like the fact that it ditches the MagSafe adapter. Yes, I know that the single USB-C port is vital in keeping the laptop’s eye-popping svelte design, but the MagSafe connector on other Mac laptops disengages with the slightest amount of pressure. This has saved many a MacBook Air and MacBook Pro from a disastrous plummet when someone accidentally snagged the power cable.
That’s why the $39.99 Griffin BreakSafe Magnetic USB-C Power Cable is a must-have item for owners of the 12-inch MacBook. Its quick-release magnetic connector plugs into the diminutive laptop’s USB-C port. Like the original MagSafe, it safely disconnects from the rest of the cable when under stress or strain — such as when you trip on it.
Plug the adapter into the MacBook, then connect the magnetic end of the cable into the adapter. (The Breaksafe doesn’t come with a charger. It works with the one that came with your Apple laptop.) The magnetic connector is only 12.8 mm deep, so you can leave it plugged into your MacBook’s USB-C port when it’s not in use. It’s rated up to 60 watts, so offers plenty of juice for the laptop.
The BreakSafe incorporates four safety features. Visual markings on the connector housing indicate the proper way to attach the cable and connector. That said, the device’s magnets only allow it to be connected the correct way even while ensuring the cord’s polarity is consistent with both the power supply and the device being powered.
BreakSafe has two small keys molded into its magnetic connector that physically prevent the magnets from engaging, and prevent the cable from connecting incorrectly. Its central ground pin is the first conductive element to touch when joining the cable and connector According to the folks at Griffin, this ensures that any static electrical charges are dissipated before before the cable begins passing power from supply to device.
What’s more, the BreakSafe is “Guaranteed for Life.” If it fails to perform as specified, Griffin will repair or replace it.
Note that the cable is for power only, so can’t be used to connect to, say, a hard drive or display. In other words, the BreakSafe won’t completely replace the USB-C cable that came with your MacBook. When traveling you should carry both cables. That’s a minor inconvenience, but one I can live with to alleviate the potential of my MacBook crashing to the floor.
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