The USB Type-C connector supports power input up to 20 V and 7 A. Some external devices, such as a dock or display, may include a USB Type-C connector that supports power output greater than 20 V and 2.25 A. If such a device is connected to this USB Type-C connector, it is capable of providing power to your computer.
In another scenario, if you carry your computer around without the included ac power adapter, you may use a capable USB Type-C charger to provide power through the USB Type-C connector. In both scenarios, the output power of a USB Type-C charger or the USB Type-C connector on a dock or display should be at least 20 V and 2.25 A in order to provide power to your computer. The following table lists the charging capability of a USB Type-C connector on a charger or an external device based on its maximum output power.
| Maximum output power of a USB Type-C connector | Capability |
|---|---|
| 20 V, 4.75 A; 20 V, 5 A; 20 V, 6.5 A; 20 V, 7 A | Capable of charging the computer |
| 20 V, 2.25 A; 20 V, 3.25 A | Capable of charging the computer in sleep, hibernation, or powered-off state |
| Less than 20 V, 2.25 A | Cannot provide power to the computer or charge the battery |
When purchasing third-party USB Type-C chargers for use with the computer, choose a product that is safety approved or certified. A disqualified charger may cause damage to your computer or pose an electrical hazard. In many countries and regions, manufacturers or importers of electric chargers can submit their products to a certification authority or approved and recognized testing laboratories. Such a product usually carries a mark if it was tested to pass relevant quality and safety standards. For some countries and regions, this certification process is even mandatory. If you live in mainland China, choose a charger with the “CCC” mark; for users in many European countries, choose one with the “CE” mark; for users in the United States and Canada, choose a Listed charger that carries a mark by one of the Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories. (For example, the “UL Listed”mark). For people living in other countries and regions, consult a qualified electrical engineer for how to select a safety approved electric charger.
The USB Type-C connector is not designed as the primary power input port. If it is used as the only external power source, the computer may not operate at its full capacity and battery charging may be longer than expected. Whenever possible, use the included ac power adapter to provide power to your computer.