What To Know
- If you have a laptop with USB-C Power Delivery (PD) capabilities, you can use it to charge your Surface Go.
- If you’re on the road and need to charge your Surface Go, a car charger can be a lifesaver.
- If you’re in a sunny location, a solar charger can provide a sustainable way to charge your Surface Go.
Finding yourself with a drained Microsoft Surface Go and no charger in sight can be a frustrating experience. But don’t despair! This guide will explore various methods and alternative options to charge your Surface Go without relying on its traditional charger.
Understanding the Power Needs of Your Surface Go
Before we delve into the solutions, it’s crucial to understand the power requirements of your Surface Go. It uses a proprietary Surface Connect port, designed to accept specific chargers. While you might be tempted to use a USB-C adapter, the Surface Go’s power demands might not be met by a standard USB-C charger.
Method 1: Utilizing a Power Bank
Power banks are portable battery packs that can provide a temporary power boost to your devices. Here’s how you can leverage a power bank to charge your Surface Go:
- Compatibility Check: Ensure your power bank has a USB-C output with sufficient wattage (at least 45W) to charge your Surface Go. Lower-wattage power banks might only charge your device slowly or not at all.
- Connecting the Right Cable: You’ll need a USB-C to Surface Connect cable to connect the power bank to your Surface Go.
- Power Up: Connect the power bank to your Surface Go using the appropriate cable. The power bank should start charging your device.
Method 2: Leveraging a Laptop with USB-C Power Delivery
If you have a laptop with USB-C Power Delivery (PD) capabilities, you can use it to charge your Surface Go. Here’s how:
- Power Delivery Check: Confirm your laptop supports USB-C PD and has enough power output (at least 45W) to charge your Surface Go.
- Connecting the Cable: Use a USB-C to Surface Connect cable to connect your laptop to your Surface Go.
- Power Transfer: Your laptop should begin charging your Surface Go.
Method 3: Using a Car Charger
If you’re on the road and need to charge your Surface Go, a car charger can be a lifesaver.
- Car Charger Compatibility: Ensure your car charger has a USB-C output with sufficient wattage (at least 45W) to charge your Surface Go.
- Connecting the Cable: Use a USB-C to Surface Connect cable to connect the car charger to your Surface Go.
- Charging in the Car: Plug the car charger into your car’s power outlet, and it should begin charging your Surface Go.
Method 4: Exploring Alternative Charging Options
While the aforementioned methods are the most common, there are other less conventional options you could consider:
- Solar Charger: If you’re in a sunny location, a solar charger can provide a sustainable way to charge your Surface Go.
- Portable Power Station: These larger power packs can offer significant charging capacity, ideal for longer trips or emergencies.
- Charging Stations: Many public locations, such as airports and coffee shops, offer charging stations. Check if they have a USB-C outlet compatible with your Surface Go.
The Importance of Battery Health
While these methods can provide temporary solutions, it’s essential to remember that frequently charging your Surface Go with alternative sources might not be the best for its battery health. It’s recommended to use your original Surface Go charger whenever possible to ensure optimal battery life and performance.
A Word of Caution: Safety First
When experimenting with alternative charging methods, prioritize safety. Always use reputable chargers and cables, and avoid using damaged or incompatible devices.
Time to Power Up: Choosing the Best Method
The best method for charging your Surface Go without a charger depends on your specific situation. Consider factors like accessibility, available power sources, and your Surface Go’s power requirements.
The Final Charge: Tips for Extending Battery Life
While charging your Surface Go without its charger can be a lifesaver, it’s also important to adopt strategies that extend your battery life:
- Reduce Screen Brightness: Dimming your screen can significantly reduce battery consumption.
- Disable Background Apps: Close unnecessary apps and disable those running in the background.
- Turn Off Bluetooth and Wi-Fi: When not in use, these features can drain your battery.
- Enable Power Saver Mode: Most devices offer a power saver mode that optimizes battery usage.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Extreme heat or cold can negatively impact battery life.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I use a regular USB-C charger to charge my Surface Go?
A: While you can technically connect a USB-C charger to your Surface Go using a USB-C to Surface Connect cable, it might not provide enough power to charge your device. It’s best to use a charger with at least 45W output.
Q: Is it safe to charge my Surface Go with a power bank?
A: Yes, it’s generally safe to charge your Surface Go with a power bank, as long as you use a compatible power bank and cable. However, always choose reputable brands and avoid using damaged or incompatible devices.
Q: How long does it take to charge my Surface Go with an alternative method?
A: The charging time will vary depending on the power output of the charging source and the remaining battery life of your Surface Go. Using a power bank or laptop with USB-C PD might take longer than using the original charger.
Q: Can I damage my Surface Go’s battery by charging it with alternative methods?
A: While alternative charging methods can provide temporary solutions, it’s recommended to use your original Surface Go charger whenever possible to ensure optimal battery health and longevity.
Q: What if I can’t find any alternative charging options?
A: If you’re in a dire situation and can’t access any alternative charging sources, try reducing your Surface Go’s power consumption by closing unnecessary apps, dimming the screen, and disabling Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. This can help extend your battery life until you can find a charger.
