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The steps depend on your Mac’s processor: Apple silicon Macs reset the SMC automatically when you restart or shut down and turn back on; manual SMC-reset steps are for Intel Macs. For Intel, choose the instructions for a Mac with or without the Apple T2 Security Chip, then select laptop or desktop.
When an SMC reset may help
The System Management Controller (SMC) manages power and related hardware behavior. Apple says you most likely do not need to reset it, but the reset may help with certain uncommon issues on Intel Macs, such as a battery that is not charging, a Mac that will not turn on, fans running fast, a laptop getting too warm, or a built-in camera that is not working. It is not routine maintenance or a guaranteed fix. The reset does not erase NVRAM or PRAM. See Apple’s SMC reset instructions.
Identify the chip family first. On an Intel Mac, also determine whether it has the T2 Security Chip. Apple’s procedures differ by chip and form factor—not by macOS version or symptom.
Reset an Apple silicon Mac
Connect the Mac to power, then choose Apple menu > Restart. Alternatively, choose Apple menu > Shut Down, wait for the Mac to turn off, then press the power button to turn it on. No keyboard combination is needed; the SMC resets automatically on Apple silicon.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
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Reset an Intel Mac with the Apple T2 Security Chip
T2 laptop
- Shut down the Mac.
- Press and hold the power button or Touch ID button for 10 seconds, then release it. Wait a few seconds and turn the Mac on.
- If the issue remains, shut down again. On the built-in keyboard, press and hold left Control, left Option (Alt), and right Shift for 7 seconds.
- While continuing to hold those three keys, also press and hold the power button for another 7 seconds. The Mac might turn on or off while you hold the keys.
- Release all keys, wait a few seconds, then press the power button to start the Mac.
T2 desktop
- Shut down the Mac and unplug its power cord.
- Wait 15 seconds, reconnect the power cord, then wait 5 seconds.
- Press the power button to turn on the Mac.
Reset an Intel Mac without the T2 Security Chip
Intel laptop
- Shut down the Mac.
- On the built-in keyboard, press and hold left Shift, left Control, and left Option (Alt).
- While holding those keys, also press and hold the power button for 10 seconds.
- Release all keys, then press the power button to turn on the Mac.
Intel desktop
- Shut down the Mac and unplug the power cord.
- Wait 15 seconds, reconnect the cord, then wait 5 seconds.
- Press the power button to turn on the Mac.
Check power and charging problems before blaming the SMC
If the Mac will not turn on
Check that the power cable is undamaged and firmly connected to a working outlet. Hold the power button for about 10 seconds, release it, then try turning on the Mac again. Disconnect accessories—including drives, printers, USB hubs, and mobile devices—and retry. If it still will not turn on, Apple says it may need service. See Apple’s startup troubleshooting steps.
If a Mac laptop will not charge
Check the outlet and power connections, then restart the Mac. If charging still fails, shut it down and close the display for 30 seconds; reopen it and try charging again. Test another cable only if it supports charging: some USB-C cables transfer data but do not charge. When using a replacement USB-C adapter, Apple recommends one with wattage equal to or greater than the adapter supplied with the Mac. Check that the charging port is clean and that the adapter and cable are in good condition. See Apple’s USB-C adapter troubleshooting.
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Other possible causes include high workload, software or firmware, battery condition, heat, insufficient adapter wattage, a dirty port, or electrical line noise. Apple recommends an ambient operating temperature of 10°–35° C (50°–95° F) for Mac laptops. A battery that stops charging below 100% can also reflect battery-health features rather than an SMC fault. Apple’s Mac battery charging guidance covers these possibilities.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.If the problem continues
If the relevant reset and symptom-specific checks do not resolve the issue, use Apple Diagnostics or contact Apple or an Apple Authorised Service Provider for evaluation. Persistent power or charging faults can require service rather than another reset.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
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Rank #4
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- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
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Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
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