The Microsoft Surface 3 is a powerful and versatile device that has become a staple for many professionals and individuals alike. With its sleek design and impressive specs, it’s no wonder why it’s a popular choice among those looking for a reliable tablet. However, one question that often arises is whether it’s possible to charge the Surface 3 using a USB connection. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of USB charging and explore the possibilities of powering your Surface 3 using this method.
Understanding USB Charging
Before we dive into the specifics of charging the Surface 3 with USB, it’s essential to understand the basics of USB charging. USB, or Universal Serial Bus, is a standard interface that allows devices to communicate and transfer data between each other. USB ports are commonly used to connect peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and flash drives to computers.
When it comes to charging, USB ports can supply power to devices, but the amount of power they can provide is limited. The standard USB 2.0 port, for example, can supply up to 2.5 watts of power, while the newer USB 3.0 port can supply up to 4.5 watts. This is sufficient for charging small devices such as smartphones and tablets, but it may not be enough to charge larger devices like laptops.
USB-C And Power Delivery
In recent years, a new type of USB connector has emerged: USB-C. This connector is designed to be faster, smaller, and more versatile than traditional USB connectors. One of the key features of USB-C is its ability to support Power Delivery (PD), which allows it to supply higher levels of power than traditional USB ports.
USB-C with PD can supply up to 100 watts of power, making it possible to charge larger devices like laptops. This has led to the development of USB-C chargers and power banks that can charge devices quickly and efficiently.
Charging The Surface 3 With USB
So, can you charge the Surface 3 with USB? The answer is yes, but with some caveats. The Surface 3 has a USB-C port that supports Power Delivery, which means it can be charged using a USB-C charger or power bank.
However, there are some limitations to consider. The Surface 3 requires a significant amount of power to charge quickly, and not all USB-C chargers or power banks can supply enough power to charge the device efficiently.
To charge the Surface 3 with USB, you’ll need a charger or power bank that can supply at least 15 watts of power. This is because the Surface 3’s battery requires a minimum of 15 watts to charge at a reasonable rate.
Recommended Chargers And Power Banks
If you’re looking to charge your Surface 3 with USB, here are some recommended chargers and power banks that can supply the necessary power:
- Anker PowerPort PD 2: This charger can supply up to 30 watts of power and is compact enough to take on the go.
- Aukey Power Bank 20000mAh: This power bank can supply up to 18 watts of power and has a large capacity battery that can charge the Surface 3 multiple times.
Important Considerations
When charging the Surface 3 with USB, there are some important considerations to keep in mind:
- Make sure the charger or power bank you’re using can supply enough power to charge the device efficiently.
- Use a high-quality USB-C cable that can handle the power requirements of the Surface 3.
- Avoid using cheap or counterfeit chargers or power banks, as they can damage the device or cause safety issues.
Benefits Of USB Charging
Charging the Surface 3 with USB has several benefits, including:
- Convenience: USB charging allows you to charge the Surface 3 on the go, without the need for a bulky power adapter.
- Portability: USB-C chargers and power banks are often compact and lightweight, making them easy to take on the go.
- Versatility: USB-C can be used to charge a wide range of devices, from smartphones to laptops.
Charging Speed
One of the key benefits of USB charging is its speed. With a high-quality charger or power bank, you can charge the Surface 3 quickly and efficiently.
The Surface 3’s battery can be charged from 0 to 80% in about 2 hours using a 15-watt charger. This is comparable to the charging speed of the device’s original power adapter.
Conclusion
In conclusion, charging the Surface 3 with USB is possible, but it requires a charger or power bank that can supply enough power to charge the device efficiently. With the right equipment, you can enjoy the convenience, portability, and versatility of USB charging.
Whether you’re a professional on the go or just someone who wants to stay connected, the Surface 3 is a powerful and reliable device that can meet your needs. By understanding the possibilities of USB charging, you can get the most out of your device and stay productive on the go.
| Charger/Power Bank | Power Output | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Anker PowerPort PD 2 | Up to 30 watts | Surface 3, USB-C devices |
| Aukey Power Bank 20000mAh | Up to 18 watts | Surface 3, USB-C devices |
By choosing the right charger or power bank, you can enjoy fast and efficient charging on the go. Whether you’re at home, in the office, or on the road, USB charging can help you stay connected and productive.
Can I Charge My Surface 3 Using A USB Port?
The Surface 3 can be charged using a USB port, but it depends on the type of USB port and the power output. The Surface 3 requires a significant amount of power to charge, and not all USB ports can provide that. The USB port on your computer or other device may not be able to provide enough power to charge the Surface 3.
If you want to charge your Surface 3 using a USB port, you’ll need to use a USB port that can provide at least 12V and 2A of power. Some newer computers and USB hubs may have USB ports that can provide this level of power, but it’s not common. You may also be able to use a USB-C port with a USB-C to USB adapter, but you’ll need to make sure the adapter can provide enough power.
What Type Of USB Charger Do I Need To Charge My Surface 3?
To charge your Surface 3, you’ll need a USB charger that can provide at least 12V and 2A of power. You can use the original charger that came with your Surface 3, or you can purchase a third-party charger that meets the same power requirements. Make sure to check the specifications of the charger before purchasing to ensure it can provide enough power for your Surface 3.
It’s also important to note that not all third-party chargers are created equal. Some may not provide the correct voltage or current, which can damage your Surface 3. Look for a charger that is specifically designed for the Surface 3 or has been certified by Microsoft.
Can I Charge My Surface 3 Using A USB-C Hub?
Yes, you can charge your Surface 3 using a USB-C hub, but you’ll need to make sure the hub can provide enough power. The Surface 3 requires at least 12V and 2A of power to charge, so you’ll need a USB-C hub that can provide that level of power. Some USB-C hubs may have a separate power input that allows you to connect an external power source, which can provide enough power to charge the Surface 3.
When shopping for a USB-C hub to charge your Surface 3, look for one that specifically states it can provide enough power to charge the device. You may also want to check the reviews and ratings from other customers to ensure the hub works as expected.
How Long Does It Take To Charge My Surface 3 Using A USB Port?
The time it takes to charge your Surface 3 using a USB port will depend on the power output of the port and the capacity of the battery. If you’re using a USB port that can provide the full 12V and 2A of power required by the Surface 3, it may take around 2-3 hours to fully charge the device. However, if you’re using a USB port that can only provide a lower level of power, it may take longer to charge the device.
It’s also worth noting that charging your Surface 3 using a USB port may not be as efficient as using the original charger. The original charger is designed to provide the optimal amount of power to the device, which can result in faster charging times.
Can I Charge My Surface 3 Using A Portable Power Bank?
Yes, you can charge your Surface 3 using a portable power bank, but you’ll need to make sure the power bank can provide enough power. The Surface 3 requires at least 12V and 2A of power to charge, so you’ll need a power bank that can provide that level of power. Some portable power banks may have a USB port that can provide this level of power, but it’s not common.
When shopping for a portable power bank to charge your Surface 3, look for one that specifically states it can provide enough power to charge the device. You may also want to check the reviews and ratings from other customers to ensure the power bank works as expected.
Is It Safe To Charge My Surface 3 Using A USB Port?
Charging your Surface 3 using a USB port can be safe as long as you’re using a USB port that can provide the correct voltage and current. However, if you’re using a USB port that can’t provide enough power, it may not be safe for your device. Using a USB port that can’t provide enough power can cause the device to overheat or become damaged.
It’s also important to note that using a third-party charger or USB port can void the warranty on your Surface 3. If you’re unsure about the safety of charging your Surface 3 using a USB port, it’s best to use the original charger or consult with the manufacturer.
Can I Charge My Surface 3 Using A USB Port While It’s In Use?
Yes, you can charge your Surface 3 using a USB port while it’s in use, but you’ll need to make sure the USB port can provide enough power. If you’re using a USB port that can provide the full 12V and 2A of power required by the Surface 3, you can use the device while it’s charging. However, if you’re using a USB port that can only provide a lower level of power, it may not be able to keep up with the power demands of the device.
It’s also worth noting that charging your Surface 3 while it’s in use can cause the device to heat up more than usual. This is because the device is using power to operate while also charging the battery. However, this is a normal behavior and should not cause any damage to the device.