What Are the Problems With Universal Laptop Chargers?

If you lose or damage your laptop’s power adapter, you may choose to replace it with a universal laptop charger rather than buy a replacement from the manufacturer. Universal models can be cheaper than replacements from the factory, and they may be able to charge multiple devices you own. However, some dangers exist when you use an unauthorized laptop charger that you should consider them before choosing a third-party option.

Voltage

One of the biggest dangers when selecting a universal laptop charger is choosing one that provides the wrong voltage. Power adapters must convert the alternating current from the wall outlet to direct current, and if the charger provides too little voltage, your laptop’s battery will not charge properly. Conversely, too high a voltage could damage your battery and your laptop, invalidating your warranty. Your owner’s manual will tell you the proper voltage for charging your laptop, and be sure to choose a universal adapter that provides the correct voltage.

Plugs

Different manufacturers use different plug designs for their hardware, making the use of universal chargers somewhat difficult. Many universal kits feature replaceable plugs, allowing you to connect the proper tip for your laptop. You should take care when choosing the connector, however, because many plugs might appear identical to the naked eye, but may differ in size by fractions of a millimeter. A plug that is slightly too large can damage the connection, while one that is slightly too small may fall out or provide intermittent power. Also, pay attention to which areas of the connector are positive and negative, as some designs rely on very specific polarity, and will not work if you choose the wrong tip.

Quality

While universal laptop chargers may be cheaper than name-brand replacement parts, in some cases the manufacturers realize those savings by skimping on design quality. Poorly-made adapters may not last as long as the official replacements would, which would require you to replace the hardware again before too long. In addition, extremely poorly-made equipment is a safety hazard, providing incorrect voltage or becoming too hot to the touch to remain safe. Always look for universal chargers that bear the Underwriter’s Labs certification, and look for models that feature a long warranty period to avoid problems.

Bottom Line

If you absolutely have to replace your laptop’s power adapter quickly and cheaply, a universal laptop charger might be a worthwhile temporary solution. Spend some time researching your purchase for the right compatibility with what you have, look for reliable brand names, and read consumer reviews to spot any hidden pitfalls you might encounter later. When in doubt, however, an official replacement from the company is usually your best bet, despite the extra expense.