The Microsoft Surface Go 2 is a versatile and portable tablet designed to keep up with your busy lifestyle. One of the most convenient features of this device is its charging capabilities. As technology advances, USB-C has become a widely adopted standard for charging and data transfer. But can you charge your Surface Go 2 with USB-C? In this article, we’ll delve into the details of the Surface Go 2’s charging capabilities and explore the possibilities of using USB-C to power up your device.
Understanding the Surface Go 2’s Charging Ports
The Surface Go 2 features a single USB-C port, which is designed for both data transfer and charging. This port is a significant upgrade from the traditional USB-A ports found on older devices, as it offers faster data transfer speeds and the ability to charge your device quickly. However, it’s essential to note that the Surface Go 2’s USB-C port is not a Thunderbolt 3 port, which means it doesn’t support the same level of power delivery as some other devices.
USB-C Charging: What You Need to Know
USB-C charging is a convenient and efficient way to power up your Surface Go 2. The USB-C port on your device supports USB Power Delivery (PD), which allows for faster charging speeds. However, to take advantage of USB-C charging, you’ll need a compatible charger and cable.
When shopping for a USB-C charger for your Surface Go 2, look for the following:
- A charger that supports USB Power Delivery (PD)
- A charger with a power output of at least 15W
- A charger with a USB-C port that matches the port on your Surface Go 2
It’s also important to note that not all USB-C chargers are created equal. Some chargers may not provide the same level of power delivery as others, which can affect charging speeds.
Charging Speeds: What to Expect
The Surface Go 2’s USB-C port supports charging speeds of up to 24W. However, the actual charging speed will depend on the charger and cable you use. Here are some general guidelines on what to expect:
- With a 15W charger, you can expect to charge your Surface Go 2 to 50% in about 30 minutes
- With a 24W charger, you can expect to charge your Surface Go 2 to 80% in about 1 hour
Keep in mind that these are general estimates, and actual charging speeds may vary depending on your device’s battery health and other factors.
Using a USB-C Hub or Dock
If you need to connect multiple devices to your Surface Go 2, a USB-C hub or dock can be a convenient solution. These devices allow you to connect multiple USB-A devices, as well as other peripherals like monitors and keyboards, to your Surface Go 2 via a single USB-C connection.
When shopping for a USB-C hub or dock, look for the following:
- A hub or dock that supports USB Power Delivery (PD)
- A hub or dock with multiple USB-A ports
- A hub or dock with other ports, such as HDMI or DisplayPort, if needed
Some popular USB-C hubs and docks for the Surface Go 2 include:
- The Microsoft Surface Dock 2
- The Anker USB-C Hub
- The CalDigit TS3 Plus
Charging Your Surface Go 2 with a USB-C Hub or Dock
If you’re using a USB-C hub or dock to connect multiple devices to your Surface Go 2, you can still charge your device via the hub or dock. However, it’s essential to note that the charging speed may be affected by the hub or dock’s power delivery capabilities.
To ensure that your Surface Go 2 charges properly when connected to a USB-C hub or dock, follow these tips:
- Use a hub or dock that supports USB Power Delivery (PD)
- Use a charger that supports USB Power Delivery (PD)
- Connect the charger directly to the hub or dock, rather than to the Surface Go 2
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Surface Go 2 charges properly when connected to a USB-C hub or dock.
Conclusion
The Surface Go 2’s USB-C port offers a convenient and efficient way to charge your device. By understanding the capabilities of your device’s USB-C port and using a compatible charger and cable, you can take advantage of faster charging speeds and keep your device powered up on the go. Whether you’re using a standalone charger or a USB-C hub or dock, it’s essential to follow the tips outlined in this article to ensure that your Surface Go 2 charges properly.
By investing in a high-quality USB-C charger and cable, you can enjoy the convenience of USB-C charging and keep your Surface Go 2 powered up and ready to go.
| Charger Power Output | Charging Speed |
|---|---|
| 15W | 50% in 30 minutes |
| 24W | 80% in 1 hour |
In conclusion, the Surface Go 2’s USB-C port is a powerful tool that can help you stay productive and connected on the go. By understanding the capabilities of your device’s USB-C port and using a compatible charger and cable, you can take advantage of faster charging speeds and keep your device powered up and ready to go.
Can I charge my Surface Go 2 using a USB-C charger?
The Surface Go 2 does have a USB-C port, which is a significant upgrade from its predecessor. However, it’s essential to note that not all USB-C chargers are created equal. To charge your Surface Go 2, you’ll need a USB-C charger that supports Power Delivery (PD) and can deliver enough power to charge the device.
The recommended charger for the Surface Go 2 is the Microsoft Surface 65W Power Supply, which uses a USB-C connector and supports PD. However, you can also use third-party USB-C chargers that meet the required specifications. When shopping for a third-party charger, make sure to check the product description or packaging to ensure it supports PD and can deliver at least 30W of power.
What is the recommended charger for the Surface Go 2?
The recommended charger for the Surface Go 2 is the Microsoft Surface 65W Power Supply. This charger uses a USB-C connector and supports Power Delivery (PD), making it the perfect companion for your Surface Go 2. The 65W power supply is designed to charge your device quickly and efficiently, and it’s also compact and lightweight, making it easy to take on the go.
Using the recommended charger ensures that your Surface Go 2 is charged safely and efficiently. Microsoft has designed the charger to work seamlessly with the Surface Go 2, and it’s also backed by a warranty and dedicated customer support. While third-party chargers may be available, using the recommended charger provides peace of mind and ensures that your device is charged correctly.
Can I use a USB-C hub to charge my Surface Go 2?
Yes, you can use a USB-C hub to charge your Surface Go 2, but it’s crucial to choose a hub that supports Power Delivery (PD) and can deliver enough power to charge the device. Not all USB-C hubs are created equal, and some may not be able to provide the necessary power to charge your Surface Go 2.
When shopping for a USB-C hub, look for one that explicitly states it supports PD and can deliver at least 30W of power. Some hubs may also have a separate power input, which can be used to connect a power adapter and charge your Surface Go 2. Be sure to check the product description or packaging to ensure the hub meets the required specifications.
How long does it take to charge the Surface Go 2 using a USB-C charger?
The charging time for the Surface Go 2 using a USB-C charger depends on several factors, including the charger’s power output, the device’s battery level, and the type of activities you’re performing while charging. However, with the recommended Microsoft Surface 65W Power Supply, you can expect to charge your Surface Go 2 from 0 to 80% in about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Using a third-party charger may affect the charging time, and it’s essential to check the product description or packaging to ensure it meets the required specifications. Additionally, if you’re using a USB-C hub to charge your Surface Go 2, the charging time may be longer due to the hub’s power output and efficiency.
Can I charge my Surface Go 2 using a USB-C charger while it’s in use?
Yes, you can charge your Surface Go 2 using a USB-C charger while it’s in use. In fact, the Surface Go 2 is designed to charge quickly and efficiently, even when you’re using it. However, it’s essential to note that charging times may be longer when the device is in use, especially if you’re performing resource-intensive activities like gaming or video editing.
To minimize the impact on charging time, try to reduce the device’s power consumption by closing unnecessary apps, turning down the screen brightness, and using power-saving features. Additionally, using a high-quality USB-C charger that supports Power Delivery (PD) can help ensure that your Surface Go 2 charges quickly and efficiently, even when it’s in use.
Is it safe to charge my Surface Go 2 using a third-party USB-C charger?
Charging your Surface Go 2 using a third-party USB-C charger can be safe if you choose a reputable brand and a charger that meets the required specifications. However, it’s essential to be cautious when using third-party chargers, as some may not meet the necessary safety standards or may not be designed specifically for the Surface Go 2.
To ensure safe charging, look for a third-party charger that supports Power Delivery (PD) and can deliver at least 30W of power. Also, check the product description or packaging for certifications like UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL (Intertek), which indicate that the charger has met certain safety standards.
Can I use a USB-C charger to charge my Surface Go 2 in a car?
Yes, you can use a USB-C charger to charge your Surface Go 2 in a car, but you’ll need a car charger that supports Power Delivery (PD) and can deliver enough power to charge the device. There are many car chargers available that meet these requirements, and some even come with built-in cables and adapters for added convenience.
When shopping for a car charger, look for one that explicitly states it supports PD and can deliver at least 30W of power. Also, check the product description or packaging to ensure the charger is designed for use in a car and meets the necessary safety standards.