Are you working on a deadline but your laptop suddenly turns off because of a low battery? And the worst thing―you left the charger! This scenario is definitely something you don’t want to experience. But of course, anything can happen in real life. Therefore, it pays off to be ready in times of emergency!
So, in this guide, we will walk you through the process of how to charge a laptop battery without a charger. This way, you get to complete your work and submit it on time! Before we dive into the details, it’s important to have an idea of how a laptop charger brings power to your device.
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How does charging a laptop work?
In general, laptops come with two battery types―the internal battery and the removable battery. Each battery has a corresponding responsibility that takes up a section of the entire laptop’s performance and working condition.
Let’s start with the internal battery, which is connected to the computer’s motherboard to maintain the CMOS settings during times when the device is turned off or not connected to a power supply. Meanwhile, the removable battery is the one that you charge using a power supply.
The laptop charger then converts the AC electricity provided by standard outlets into the DC power supply. Because of this process, it’s crucial that the output power of the laptop charger is equivalent to the input specifications of the laptop, particularly the voltage.
At present, manufacturers now incorporate non-removable batteries on laptops to maximize the dimension, creating a sleeker structure with better battery life.
What are the ways to charge a laptop battery without a charger?
While laptop chargers are the best way to supply battery energy to your device, there are instances when this pivotal piece is left behind, or perhaps missing. In this case, you need to be resourceful and practical. And don’t fret because there are actually other proven ways to charge your laptop without its charger.
1. Use the USB-C port.
The incorporation of USB-C ports has truly been a great advancement in the field of technology. Now, most laptops are equipped with a USB-C port, which allows you to charge your device using a USB-type c cable.
There are even other laptops that consider USB-C cable as the main charging method. However, for these devices, there might be limitations with the charging options. With the USB-C as its primary charging way, manufacturers do not suggest using any other chargers to avoid device malfunctioning.
Aside from charging devices, a USB-C port also helps in the seamless transfer of media and files. That’s why it’s beneficial for laptops to have this feature. A USB-C connector is easy to determine because of its dimension. Unlike most traditional USB versions, it is significantly small with a versatile charging port.
With interchangeable tips, this makes a USB-C a universal charger. Below are the key steps to charge a laptop via a USB-C port:
- To charge your laptop using the built-in USB-C port, you need to have a USB-C cord or type-c cable.
- Make sure that you have a plug adapter so you can easily connect it to a power outlet.
- Check if the laptop charges using the USB-C port.
2. Capitalize on a power bank.
The next recommendation would be to use a power bank. This ever-handy equipment is surely essential for all your travels. It serves as a backup power source to recharge most battery-powered electronics, from smartphones to tablets!
Aside from recharging your smartphone, you might be surprised that power banks can also charge laptops. This portable power supply is actually helpful in case you forget your charger. Moreover, power banks are generally categorized according to their performance―low and high-capacity models.
Low-capacity power banks are typically small in size, hence lightweight. Because of the dimension, these power banks only use minimal batteries, often single batteries. With a limited battery, the performance of this type may not be suitable for high-performing devices.
Meanwhile, high-capacity power banks are the most recommended options in terms of power. This type of power bank generally comes with at least 20,000 mAh, resulting in better charging capacity. Moreover, it can charge different devices using various USB ports.
So, if you’ve got a power bank and your laptop is running low, check out the procedures and see if this works for your device:
- Evaluate the capacity of your laptop, whether it’s less powerful or high-end. Once you’re able to determine its working capacity, it’s time to assess if your power bank is suitable for the laptop. Often than not, normal laptops use USB type A whereas high-powered devices use USB-C.
- Keep an eye on the charging process to avoid accidents. Since the power bank provides power without plugging your laptop into an outlet, this makes it easier to charge your laptop. For high-capacity power banks, you can charge laptops and other devices once or twice.
- Don’t forget to replenish the power bank after using it. This way, you can make use of the power bank to charge other electronics.
3. Maximize your car’s battery.
Do you own a car? Well, that’s a good thing because you can certainly utilize your vehicle’s battery to charge your laptop. With the electricity produced by the car, you are given the opportunity to restock your device’s power and continue your work.
If you opt for this method, take a look at the things that you need to know in advance:
- Prepare an AC adapter that comes with a USB type A connector and a USB-C connector on either end. This type of adapter is the most suitable option when charging your laptop via car.
- Turn the engine on. Then, ready the USB car charger and plug it into the charging port of the vehicle. Modern cars have USB ports, so use this instead.
- Connect the USB-C cable to the laptop and ta-da, you can now charge the laptop.
4. Try a car laptop charger.
If the other options do not work, don’t worry because there’s another way. Use the car battery charger. This method is a bit complex but may be the best choice to charge your device.
- Ready a cigarette lighter socket and a car laptop charger. The latter is a device quite similar to a typical laptop charger, except for some features, particularly the power jack. This part permits you to connect the laptop to the cigarette lighter socket outlet that can be found in the car.
- Before buying a car laptop charger, make sure that this charger is compatible with your device.
- Turn on the engine before you kick off the charging process.
- Start connecting one end of the car laptop charger to the power outlet of the vehicle and the other end to your device. See if it’s working and hope for the best!
5. Go for a USB type-C adapter.
Another remarkable method is to use a type-C adapter, which is quite popular compared to other USB types. Why? It’s because this particular adapter lets you connect and charge popular devices, from iOs to standard USB accessories. On top of that, this type is known to be more efficient.
Aside from its high-power connectivity, this ensures that you get to charge devices at a higher speed, making it such a good substitute in case you miss your laptop charger. Lastly, adapters are considered safer as it comes with protection. It automatically shuts down upon detection of heat.
So, if you want to continue using your laptop, a USB-C adapter can help you out.
- You need to have a type-C connector to charge your laptop. Link this to the USB-C port of the laptop and connect it to the USB-C adapter.
- Once you connect the adapter, you may now plug it into the power outlet.
6. Take advantage of a universal power adapter and a universal laptop charger.
Ever hear of a universal power or travel adapter? This is also a good option to charge your laptop without using your official charger. A universal power adapter is best paired with a universal laptop charger, which is also an excellent tool that caters to different laptop models.
In general, universal laptop chargers have unique tips to give you an option. With the variety of replacement tips, you have lots of options, depending on your laptop. Here are the two steps that you need to follow:
- Connect the universal laptop charger tip to your laptop.
- Attach the universal power adapter and plug it into the power outlet.
Although universal laptop chargers are great alternatives, you should be careful. It’s because high voltage can cause damage to your laptop battery. That’s why it’s important to know the voltage capacity of your device to prevent accidents. If you’re unsure, you may verify with the laptop manufacturers.
Important things to take note of before charging your laptop
Whatever tool you use, you need to be heedful when it comes to charging your devices. Make sure that all connections are safe and secured. Moreover, keep an eye on your laptop when charging. It’s because overheating may happen.
Conclusion
While using the original charger is the best option, unfortunate circumstances may occur along the way and you end up forgetting this, or worst, losing it. That’s why having a backup plan is pivotal. Through our list above, you get to choose the best alternative, depending on the situation.