- Why Replacing Your Charger Is Often Safer Than Replacing Your Laptop
- The 3 Simple Steps to Find the Right Charger for Your Laptop
- How to Identify the Charger Model and Connector Size Quickly
- Charging Your Laptop With a Power Bank: What You Need to Know
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Modern Charging Solutions Reduce Costs and Extend Laptop Lifespans
Why Your Next Laptop Charger Won’t Come From Your Laptop Brand
- Why Replacing Your Charger Is Often Safer Than Replacing Your Laptop
- The 3 Simple Steps to Find the Right Charger for Your Laptop
- How to Identify the Charger Model and Connector Size Quickly
- Charging Your Laptop With a Power Bank: What You Need to Know
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Modern Charging Solutions Reduce Costs and Extend Laptop Lifespans
Laptop chargers fail more often than laptops do. Not to mention, an overheated charger increases the likelihood of a fire hazard. Fortunately, replacing a charger costs far less than replacing a laptop.
With modern universal power banks and smarter charging tech, you no longer need to rely on your laptop’s brand for a compatible replacement. Learn why replacing your charger is better than buying a new laptop, plus tips for finding a new charger.
Why Replacing Your Charger Is Often Safer Than Replacing Your Laptop
If your laptop stopped charging, the problem could be with your charger, not your computer. The good news is that swapping out your charger is usually cheaper and better for your device’s long-term health for several reasons:
Reduce fire hazards: If you notice your charging brick feels hot to the touch or starts to make a faint buzzing sound, unplug it immediately. If you’re trying to charge your laptop without the original charger, it’s crucial to get a trusted replacement that regulates voltage.
Extend laptop life: Continuing to use a damaged or malfunctioning charger can also shorten your laptop's lifespan. These chargers inconsistently deliver power, which stresses out the battery and internal circuits over time.
Save money: We guarantee that your laptop is more expensive than a new charger. Replacing a charger keeps your computer running better for longer and will also protect your pricey tech.
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The 3 Simple Steps to Find the Right Charger for Your Laptop
There are a lot of chargers out there. What’s the right option for your laptop? Follow these three quick steps to get the information you need to buy the right charger.
Step 1: Get Your Laptop Serial Number
Your laptop’s model number identifies which chargers are compatible. If you’ve lost your original charger, start by finding your laptop’s model or serial number. You’ll usually find it printed on the underside of the device or inside the battery compartment. Once you’ve got it, plug that number into a quick Google search along with the phrase “replacement charger.” This helps narrow down compatible models and ensures you’re not guessing based on looks alone.
Step 2: Check The Charger’s Connector and Output
Next, look at the connector type. This is the pin or plug that goes into your laptop. Some are rounded, others are rectangular, and newer models often use USB-C. The connection must match perfectly to prevent damage to your computer.
Even so, not all chargers are the same, even if they have a compatible connector. You also need to look at the output information. Check your laptop’s power requirements (you’ll find them on the bottom label). It should read something like “Input: 20V = 5A.”
Multiply the voltage (V) by the amperage (A) to calculate the required wattage. In this example, 20 × 5 = 100W. In plain English, your new charger needs to meet or exceed that number. A low-wattage charger might power your phone but will struggle to charge your laptop, so do the math before you order a replacement.
Step 3: Find A Replacement
While your laptop’s manufacturer may sell chargers, they often phase out models over time. Chances are, you’ll need to navigate a lot of third-party options to find the correct charger for your device.
To ensure compatibility, check the part number on your old adapter. It’s usually labeled “P/N,” “Spare,” or “FRU.” That code helps you find an identical or safe equivalent model.
If you’re tired of juggling brand-specific chargers, a universal option might be a smarter upgrade. The EcoFlow RAPID Pro X Power Bank (27650mAh, 300W) provides fast and reliable charging for laptops and other devices, all in one portable unit.
How to Identify the Charger Model and Connector Size Quickly
If you’ve casually looked at chargers online, you know how the listings can read like alphabet soup. Model numbers and connector sizes can be hard to understand on these listings. Follow a few rules of thumb to decode these listings and buy the right option.
Start by looking for your charger’s model number on the original brick or adapter (if you still have it). You’ll usually find it printed on a small sticker or engraved directly onto the charger. Look for labels such as “Model,” “P/N,” “Spare,” or “FRU.” These alphanumeric codes are your shortcut to finding an exact match. Just copy and paste the model number into a search bar or online marketplace, and you’ll see listings for compatible replacements.
Next, focus on the connector size, which determines whether the plug will actually fit your laptop’s port. Listings usually describe this in millimeters, like “5.5mm x 2.5mm” (outer diameter x inner diameter), or specify USB-C for newer models.
Charging Your Laptop With a Power Bank: What You Need to Know
As you can see, finding a replacement laptop charger can be challenging. Why not replace that charger with a more versatile, universal option? Power banks used to be limited to charging phones and earbuds, but they’ve come a long way. Today’s options can fully charge laptops and even power small appliances.
But not all power banks are created equal, and choosing the right one depends on where and how you work. The size of power bank you need for a laptop depends on your machine’s requirements. The higher the Wh (watt-hour) rating, the longer your laptop can stay powered before you need to recharge the battery itself. Lightweight ultrabooks might only need 60W, while gaming laptops and workstations can draw 150W or more.
If you’re frequently working on the go, the EcoFlow RAPID Pro X Power Bank (27650mAh, 300W) is an ideal pick. It’s travel-friendly, Qi2-certified for safe and fast charging, and powerful enough to charge your laptop and phone.
On the other hand, if your workspace is more off-grid, such as a detached home office or RV, the EcoFlow DELTA 3 Max Plus (2048Wh) is a better option. It can handle not just laptops but lighting, monitors, routers, and even small appliances. If you live in an area with frequent power outages, consider opting for a whole-home generator to ensure your appliances stay powered up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Laptop Charger Be Replaced?
Absolutely. In most cases, it’s safer and cheaper to buy a replacement charger than to replace your laptop. Over time, adapters wear down and connectors loosen, all of which can cause charging interruptions or even create a fire risk. Swapping in a new, properly rated charger protects your device and can even extend its lifespan.
Is It Okay To Charge My Laptop With a USB-C Cable?
Only if your laptop supports USB-C, and even then, the USB-C charger must deliver enough power to meet the laptop’s energy needs. For example, a 30W phone charger won’t power a laptop that requires 100W or more.
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Modern Charging Solutions Reduce Costs and Extend Laptop Lifespans
When your laptop stops charging, don’t throw it out. The charger is usually to blame, and that’s a much cheaper fix than upgrading your computer. With universal, high-quality power solutions now available, you don’t have to rely on your laptop brand to stay powered up, either.
Get one charger that does it all, whether you’re working from home or on the go. The EcoFlow RAPID Pro X Power Bank (27650mAh, 300W) delivers reliable, safe charging for your laptop and every other device in your bag.