Can Surface Pro Be Charged Through Usb Port? The Answer Will Surprise You

The Surface Pro series has revolutionized the laptop market, offering a versatile combination of portability and power. However, one question often arises among users: Can Surface Pro be charged through its USB port? This blog post delves into this topic, exploring the technical aspects, limitations, and alternative charging options.

USB Power Delivery (PD)

USB Power Delivery (PD) is a protocol that allows USB-C ports to deliver higher power levels for charging and powering devices. Surface Pro models from 2017 onwards support USB PD, enabling them to receive power from compatible chargers and power banks.

Charging Surface Pro Through USB-C

Yes, it is possible to charge Surface Pro through its USB-C port. However, there are a few important factors to consider:

• Charger Compatibility: The USB charger or power bank you use must support USB PD and provide sufficient power output. A minimum of 45W is recommended for optimal charging speed.
• Cable Quality: Use a high-quality USB-C cable that supports USB PD. Low-quality cables may not deliver sufficient power or may cause charging issues.
• Power Consumption: Charging Surface Pro through USB-C may be slower than using the dedicated Surface Connect port, especially when the device is in active use.

Limitations of USB-C Charging

While USB-C charging is convenient, it has some limitations:

• Not All Models Support It: Surface Pro models released before 2017 do not support USB-C charging.
• Lower Charging Speed: As mentioned earlier, USB-C charging may be slower than using the Surface Connect port.
• Battery Drain: Using Surface Pro while charging through USB-C may result in battery drain if the charger does not provide sufficient power.

Alternative Charging Options

In addition to USB-C, Surface Pro can also be charged using the following methods:

• Surface Connect Port: The dedicated Surface Connect port provides the fastest and most reliable charging experience.
• Docking Station: Surface Pro docking stations provide multiple charging ports, including USB-C and Surface Connect, for convenient charging and connectivity.
• Wireless Charging: Some Surface Pro models support Qi wireless charging, allowing you to charge your device wirelessly using a compatible charging pad.

When to Use USB-C Charging

USB-C charging for Surface Pro is most suitable in the following scenarios:

• As a Backup: When you don’t have access to the Surface Connect charger or docking station, USB-C charging can serve as a convenient backup option.
• Portability: If you’re traveling light and don’t want to carry the Surface Connect charger, USB-C charging allows you to use a single charger for your Surface Pro and other devices.
• Low-Power Usage: For light tasks that don’t require high power consumption, USB-C charging can be sufficient.

Final Note: Embracing Versatility

The ability to charge Surface Pro through USB-C provides users with greater flexibility and convenience. While it may not always be the fastest or most efficient charging method, it offers a valuable alternative in certain situations. By understanding the limitations and alternative charging options, Surface Pro users can optimize their charging experience and keep their devices powered up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can all Surface Pro models be charged through USB-C?
A: No, only Surface Pro models released from 2017 onwards support USB-C charging.

Q: What is the recommended power output for USB-C charging Surface Pro?
A: A minimum of 45W is recommended for optimal charging speed.

Q: Can I charge Surface Pro through a USB-A port?
A: No, USB-A ports do not provide sufficient power to charge Surface Pro.