EU USB-C charging rule now applies to new laptops

The European Union’s common charger directive has now been extended to new laptops sold in the EU. The rule first came into effect in December 2024 for most new portable electronic devices, requiring them to use a unified USB-C connector.

Laptop manufacturers were given an additional 16 months to comply. That grace period expired on April 28. As a result, all new laptops sold in the European Union are now required to include at least one USB-C port for charging.

The requirement applies to laptops with a power rating of 100W or lower. Laptops above that threshold, such as some gaming laptops, may still use proprietary charging connectors. However, they are still required to include a USB-C charging port.

Manufacturers must also offer an unbundled packaging option. This means customers must be able to buy a laptop without a charger included in the box. The aim is to reduce electronic waste and encourage people to reuse chargers they already own.

The rule applies across all 27 EU member states. It affects new laptops sold in the EU, but it does not apply to second-hand models or devices that are already on sale.

According to the EU, the wider move to USB-C charging across portable electronic devices is expected to save customers up to €250 million each year and reduce electronic waste by up to 11,000 tonnes annually.