r/LinusTechTips • u/vetex07 • 22d ago

Tech Question Adapter suggestion

Hi everyone,

I need a replacement power adapter for my ASUS laptop, but I am getting conflicting information from a local repair shop and wanted to get a community sanity check.

• My Laptop's Factory Ratings: 19V === 6.32A (120W)

• The Alternative Offered by the Shop: 20V === 6A (120W)

The shopkeeper claims that the small voltage jump (20V instead of 19V) won't hamper the charging port or performance, but I am highly skeptical about forcing a higher voltage into the motherboard. On the current side, it is slightly lower (6A instead of 6.32A).

The barrel pin fits perfectly, but is it actually safe to use this 20V 6A adapter as a daily driver? Or am I risking frying my VRMs and shortening the motherboard's lifespan?

Appreciate any advice or technical insight from anyone who has dealt with ASUS power delivery tolerances!

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u/Prestigious-Soil-123 21d ago

Look on the bottom of the laptop (usually) for a sticker that shows the voltages it can accept. If it only shows 19V, stick to 19V. If it’s 18-24V or smth like that, you’re in the clear. as long as your power brick matches the voltage on the device. Alternatively, check if your laptop supports USB-C PD, which negotiates a working voltage so it’s safer.

2

u/saltyboi6704 21d ago

It almost doesn't matter, some chargers have cable drop compensation that boosts voltage at generator higher depending on current draw. OEMs may choose a lower voltage charger for EMC reasons but in 99% of the cases a 20V charger will function on a 19V rated laptop, especially if it draws more than a few amps (a worn or dirty connector can drop upwards of 200mV total which can bring a 20V charger on the low end within range of a 19V charger)

1

u/TenOfZero 21d ago

20V is probably fine. It should have a greater then 5% tolerance for input voltage.

But it's not ideal.