As a result of the huge number of phone calls we receive from customers about their problems using universal laptop chargers – we wanted to write an article explaining to customers why we don’t think it is in your interests to purchase a universal laptop charger. We know that it can feel like a race against time to source a new laptop adapter. A universal power supply sounds great at the time since it has to be compatible with your laptop, right? Below we lay out some common problems and explain why it is better to invest a couple of minutes of your time to purchase the correct fixed tip original laptop charger than it is it to go down the universal route.

Issue #1: Universal chargers are less reliable than fixed tip laptop chargers

Universal laptop chargers are not manufactured by OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) factories. Unlike the original laptop chargers supplied by Laptop Power USA, these universal power supply leads will be made in generic Chinese factories. As well as being less reliable, some of these items won’t pass USA safety standards unfortunately.

Issue #2: Universal laptop chargers are heavier and larger than our laptop adapters

Since these universal power cables are made to be able to be used on a larger number of different laptops, you will find that they will typically be much larger than the laptop adapter originally supplied with your notebook. This is not great for customers who are always on the move, commute on the train to work etc - and then find themselves carrying a heavier bag with them every day than the used to do.

Issue #3 – Laptop Manufacturers don’t like these universal replacement chargers

Many of the big laptop manufacturers, most notably HP and Dell, have reacted to these cheap and nasty Chinese replacement chargers. They have begun making their new laptop chargers with what is known as ‘Smart Tip’ Technology. Effectively the laptop charger tip has special circuitry put into it during the manufacturing process which means that the cheap generic chargers won’t be able to successfully charge up the laptop battery. Purchasing from Laptop Power USA gives our customers complete peace of mind. Since we only supply the original chargers direct from the manufacturer, you will end up with the same fixed-tip laptop power adapter as if you went to the manufacturer yourself. The only difference is they will charge you a lot more!

Issue #4 – Universal laptop charger tips are much more fragile

Because the universal laptop chargers are made with inter-changeable tips, they are a lot more fragile and easily broken or snapped, than the fixed-tip laptop adapters supplied by Laptop Power USA. Over the course of their life, laptop chargers get very heavily used and in our experience you are much more likely to suffer a broken laptop power lead if you opt for a universal solution.

Bottom line – spend a couple of minutes doing your homework and get yourself the specific and correct power cable for your laptop. If you are in a rush, or are uncertain about anything – give the Laptop Power USA sales team a call who are glad to help.