USB-C power and traditional barrel jack power supplies are two common ways of providing power to electronic devices, such as laptops, tablets, monitors, etc. USB-C power uses a reversible connector that can deliver both power and data over a single cable, while barrel jack power uses a cylindrical connector that can only deliver power.
The advantages of USB-C power versus traditional barrel jack power supplies are:
- Versatility: USB-C power can be used for a wide range of devices and applications, as it can support different voltages and currents up to 240W1. USB-C power can also carry data, audio, video, and other signals over the same cable, reducing the need for multiple cables and adapters. USB-C power can also be used for bidirectional charging, meaning that a device can charge another device or be charged by another device using the same port2.
- Convenience: USB-C power can be more convenient than barrel jack power, as it has a reversible connector that can be plugged in either way. USB-C power can also be more widely available and compatible, as it can use standard USB chargers, power banks, or outlets that support USB Power Delivery (PD) or other protocols. USB-C power can also enable fast charging for devices that support it2.
- Portability: USB-C power can be more portable than barrel jack power, as it can use smaller and lighter chargers and cables that are easier to carry around. USB-C power can also reduce the need for carrying multiple chargers and cables for different devices, as it can charge most devices with a single charger and cable2.
The European Union has proposed new rules that will make USB-C power the common charging standard for mobile devices by the end of 2024. The EU argues that this will reduce electronic waste, lower costs, and make consumers’ lives easier by having one common charger for different devices2.
The advantages of USB-C power accepted in the EU as standard are:
- Compatibility: USB-C power will be compatible with most mobile devices and applications, as it can support different voltages and currents up to 100W. USB-C power will also enable bidirectional charging, meaning that a device can charge another device or be charged by another device using the same port3.
- Convenience: USB-C power will be more convenient than barrel jack power, as it has a reversible connector that can be plugged in either way. USB-C power will also be more widely available and accessible, as it can use standard USB chargers, power banks, or outlets that support USB Power Delivery (PD) or other protocols. USB-C power will also enable fast charging for devices that support it3.
- Sustainability: USB-C power will be more sustainable than barrel jack power, as it will reduce the need for multiple chargers and cables for different devices, which can generate tonnes of unnecessary e-waste. USB-C power will also reduce the energy consumption and heat generation of the chargers and cables, which can have environmental benefits2.