Alternative Power Adapter for 2008 MacBook - Magsafe 1 60w

[sophiedee]

Hey. I have an old MacBook from 2008 (A1181) and I can't get my head around the options for replacing my failed 60w Magsafe power adapter. Usually I would just look to replace like for like but I get the feeling there are alternatives?

Due to the age of my current adapter (A1184), I have concerns about buying a used one off eBay which may be at risk of imminent failure.

What is the deal with the two styles of connectors, T-shape and L-shape? Are they interchangeable?

I have seen a USB-C to MagSafe 1 (L-shape) converter but I'm not sure what brick I would need along with a suitable cable.
Also not sure how reliable the actual converters are?

My current adapter is 60w, am I restricted to 60w adapters or can I use a lesser/greater adapter?

Here is a photo of the connector on my current MagSafe:

https://imgur.com/Ek6Idq6

I look forward to your answers, many thanks 😊

 

[chrfr]

Hey. I have an old MacBook from 2008 (A1181) and I can't get my head around the options for replacing my failed 60w Magsafe power adapter. Usually I would just look to replace like for like but I get the feeling there are alternatives?

Due to the age of my current adapter (A1184), I have concerns about buying a used one off eBay which may be at risk of imminent failure.

What is the deal with the two styles of connectors, T-shape and L-shape? Are they interchangeable?

I have seen a USB-C to MagSafe 1 (L-shape) converter but I'm not sure what brick I would need along with a suitable cable.
Also not sure how reliable the actual converters are?

My current adapter is 60w, am I restricted to 60w adapters or can I use a lesser/greater adapter?

Here is a photo of the connector on my current MagSafe:

https://imgur.com/Ek6Idq6

I look forward to your answers, many thanks 😊

You can use higher wattage adapters with no issue. I'm more concerned about getting counterfeit adapters from eBay and third parties than I am getting a used one, so I'd only buy from Apple, even at the high price.

 

[sophiedee]

A brand new one from Apple costs significantly more than the value of my machine. Buying an alternative and possibly universal wall charger would be more economical but I just don't know if it's a functional option.

Can anyone advise if a setup like this would work? This is 65w but you can also buy a 100w version Ugreen or Anker brand.