Charger questions
Compatibility, cables and buying the correct charger
What should I send to identify the correct charger?
Send the full laptop model, a clear photo of the old adapter label and a photo of the charging connector. For a MacBook, include its model or year and whether the connection is USB-C or MagSafe. Do not send account passwords.
Can I use a higher-watt USB-C charger?
For a compatible USB-C Power Delivery setup, the laptop negotiates a supported power level; a higher advertised wattage does not force that full power into it. Compatibility of the device, adapter output profiles and cable still matters. This does not make arbitrary barrel-plug adapters interchangeable.
Reference: Apple: Mac power adapters and cables
Does the USB-C cable affect the charging speed?
Yes. The cable must support the power required by the adapter and device. A cable that fits is not necessarily suitable for that charging setup. We check the cable as well as the adapter when matching a replacement.
Reference: Microsoft: USB-C and Surface charging
Can I choose a barrel-plug charger just because the pin fits?
No. The output voltage, polarity, required current, connector dimensions and any manufacturer-identification requirements must match the laptop specification. Similar-looking tips can have different electrical or identification requirements. Send the model and adapter label rather than guessing.
Are MagSafe, MagSafe 2 and MagSafe 3 interchangeable?
They are different connection generations. Apple describes a converter from an older MagSafe adapter to MagSafe 2, but that converter is not compatible with MagSafe 3. We match the charging connection to your MacBook model.
Reference: Apple: Mac power adapters and cables
Can every Microsoft Surface charge through USB-C?
No. The charging connection and supported power depend on the Surface model. Some use Surface Connect; USB-C charging and fast-charge requirements vary. Send the exact model so the correct power supply and cable can be confirmed.
Reference: Microsoft: USB-C and Surface charging
Is a charging cable or mains lead included in the price?
It depends on the particular charger supplied. The quote confirms whether it includes the power adapter, device cable, Irish/UK mains plug or mains lead, together with the item’s condition and warranty.
Do you have every original charger available immediately?
No. TECHHELP regularly holds original laptop and Apple MacBook chargers, but stock is model-specific. Contact us before travelling so availability of the exact charger and cable can be confirmed.
What if a replacement charger does not fix the problem?
The port, battery or internal charging circuit may be responsible. Tell us about warning messages, intermittent connections or a device that will not start. Assessment of the charging fault may be more useful than buying an adapter without checking the device.