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How do I Choose the Correct Laptop Charger?

By M.R. Anglin
Updated: May 16, 2024
Views: 72,066
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Finding the correct laptop charger is not a difficult or overly inconvenient process. All it takes is a little research. The information you need to make the right choice can be easily found on your laptop, your old charger, or on the charger to be purchased. The best part about finding the right product is that manufacturers make the choice easy. The information is usually on the charger’s case or in the description, if shopping online.

The best option in finding the correct charger for your laptop is to go to the source. Go to the manufacturer that made the computer and find the charger there. Online stores may be the best option in this case because they usually carry a greater selection than physical stores. Once at the store, look for the charger that came with your computer. This way, you will be sure to find the correct one.

If, for some reason, you are unable to go to the manufacturer’s store or are unable or unwilling to get the charger shipped to you through online stores, you can go to a computer or electronics store. When looking at the laptop chargers available, take the time to look at the computer models the charger you are looking at is compatible with. This information should be listed on the packaging. If your specific computer model is on the list, then the charger will work for you computer. If it is not, find another charger.

You can also find out what type of charger your laptop takes by looking on the bottom of the laptop. In order to ensure that you get the correct replacement parts for your computer, the manufacturer stamps product specifications (specs) on different laptop parts. There are several stamps, but you should look for the one that says “AC adaptor” or something similar. Find the model number and write it down — that is what you should be looking when buying a replacement. This information can also be found by looking at your old charger and in the documentation that came with your laptop.

You can also buy a universal charger. Again, to ensure you are getting one that is compatible for your laptop, check the product specs on the charger’s packaging. You can also be sure the charger will match your computer by making sure the specs for the charger and those for the laptop are the same. This includes making sure the voltage, input, and output are identical. Don’t forget to make sure the charger’s connections will fit your laptop.

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Discussion Comments
By anon293501 — On Sep 26, 2012

If a charger of laptop is exchanged with others, then how can I identify mine if their laptop is the same kind as mine?

By anon276074 — On Jun 21, 2012

Universal chargers just don't have as many amps and/or the ability to withstand certain wattage levels as the original chargers.

However, this does not mean that you have to buy a charger with the same exact number of amps or watts. if the charger produces more power than your original charger, it will still work as it should without damaging your laptop device while charging it within a fraction of the time that your charger would.

Also, the brand does not matter, as long as it is an original brand such as dell or hp. The important factor to consider is the chargers' corresponding tip size.

By qzcolips — On Apr 30, 2012

Before anything else, you should remember that once you bought a brand new laptop, most of the time a manufacturer or a shop offers replacement or warranty so that way you can save time and money, but if the replacement time contract has expired you have no choice but to buy a new battery (for instance).

There are a lot of online stores that may offer you this, but most of them don't have any service to deliver.

By anon256945 — On Mar 24, 2012

I bought the wrong laptop charger from a computer market and can't get my money back, but it's the same company. Its an ASUS laptop like mine but it's not for a notebook and to sell it, I need to know what model and serial number it is so I can find out if it's the right one for my buyer.

By popcorn — On May 28, 2011

Before you worry about choosing the correct laptop charger check your warranty and see if a replacement is covered for your computer.

When my charger broke I was able to get a new one sent to me by the company who made my laptop as it was still under warranty.

If you are not sure, give the company a call and let them know what your problem is. Sometimes, if there has been something like a recall, you can get a replacement part at no cost, even if you normally wouldn't be covered. It can never hurt to ask. If the company has great customer service you might get one for free no matter what.

By Sara007 — On May 26, 2011

I love bargains as much as the next person, but I have to say, when it comes to laptop chargers, make sure that you buy the one put out by the company who made your computer.

I have found that cheap replica chargers just don't work as well and can even damage your computer. I purchased a no name charger for my MacBook and it just wouldn't charge the battery as fast.

On an older computer, I almost got zapped because the charger wasn't up to standard. Be careful when you purchase your laptop charger and make sure you have the best match possible.

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