How many types of MagSafe are there?

Now that MagSafe is dead in favor of USB-C, how many types of MagSafe are there and how do I identify which one matches my computer?

Solution 1:

According to Apple, there are three generations and four types of MagSafe adapters:

• MagSafe
  • "T" Style (2006)
  • "L" Styles (2008, 2010)
• MagSafe 2 (2012)
• MagSafe 3 (2021)

The "T" and "L" style are the original MagSafe (or MagSafe 1, if you will) and are compatible with each other.

As for identifying the adapter to your specific model, Apple also provides an excellent support document: Find the right power adapter and cord for your Mac notebook

As for the MagSafe being dead, according to articles written just today about a patent filed by Apple, they may be bringing it back as an adapter (MagSafe to USB-C)

MagSafe 3 is not compatible with the older generations since it’s just USB-C power delivery with custom connection and pin layout.