Level 1

24 points

Feeling electric current on MacBook Pro M1 with charger plugged in

It seems that the UK version of the Macbook Pro M1 is no longer delivered with a properly grounded extension cable with the charger, but rather with a small UK plug directly connected to the charging block. However, that plug is not grounded.

As a result I'm experiencing an extreme unpleasant electric tingling when touching the Macbook Pro when the charger is connected. It is really an annoying sensation. Considering the price of Euro 3000 for this top of the line product, I find it amazing that Apple saved at this vital point of electric safety.

I have attached the image of the plug coming with the box (bottom) and next to it (above) a wire from an older touch bar model. The latter clearly shows the grounding pins, which are missing in the plug. When using the extension from the older Macbook, the electric current is gone. So it is clearly the missing grounding causing the sensation of electric current on the casing.

Tomorrow I will visit the Apple store, let's see what they have to say. I will update the posting accordingly.

I'm seriously not impressed.

Posted on Aug 10, 2023 3:02 PM

Top-ranking reply

Grant Bennet-Alder

Level 10

140,249 points

Posted on Aug 10, 2023 4:50 PM

Apple stopped including the Grounded AC power "extension cord", probably as a cost saving.

it is available at the Apple Store for US$20.

I have a diagram of the "full Kit"

(for Readers who do not know the small head is replaceable with the extension cord)

These are US cords, UK is similar but a bit larger.

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69 replies

mwille64

Level 1

20 points

Aug 19, 2023 11:25 AM in response to Grant Bennet-Alder

I'm here to inform others about this problem. I don't need help.

Aug 19, 2023 12:29 PM in response to mwille64

Please keep this professional and helpful. Arguing doesn't help to finding the solution.

chris.h

Level 1

13 points

Jan 26, 2024 8:51 AM in response to flexier

I have the same issue, i've sent my laptop in multiple times. They didn't fix it, they just replaced the case. :(

flexier Author

Level 1

24 points

Mar 11, 2024 3:19 AM in response to Grant Bennet-Alder

Is it so hard to understand that one doesn't always want to use the long extension cord?!

chris.h

Level 1

13 points

Mar 11, 2024 8:50 AM in response to Grant Bennet-Alder

I guess you've not yet seen the macbook air charging block. It's 2 prong and *not* modular. IOW there is no 3 prong extension cable option.

mwille64

Level 1

20 points

May 25, 2024 2:07 AM in response to erble

Lol. It might technically work, optically and in terms of practicality....NO WAY!

chris.h

Level 1

13 points

May 25, 2024 4:20 PM in response to Grant Bennet-Alder

So now the required extra purchase for de-electrifying a brand new macbook (air) is $90... it's not reasonable. I'd say it's indefensible but clearly you disagree.

chris.h

Level 1

13 points

May 26, 2024 5:41 PM in response to landscape_artist

Right, the new macbook air's come with a non-modular PSU (you can't replace the 2 prong with a grounded extension cable), so you have to buy a new PSU as well.

chri194

Level 1

12 points

Jun 5, 2024 12:19 PM in response to flexier

this happens to me too! when i tried charging my 2013 mbp while feet touching ground, i felt a shock, but when im not touching groun with my feet, i felt nothing

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Feeling electric current on MacBook Pro M1 with charger plugged in