Buying a new laptop in the European Union just got a lot more straightforward. As of April 28, 2026, the EU’s common charger rules have officially expanded to cover laptops, meaning USB-C charging is now a must-have feature for most newly sold portable computers across all 27 member states.
This change comes after a 16-month transition period for laptop makers, following earlier requirements that already pushed smartphones and tablets toward USB-C. Now, the final phase is in effect: if a newly released laptop is sold in the EU and its charging power is rated at 100W or less, it needs to support charging via USB-C and include at least one USB-C port that can do the job.
What does that mean for shoppers? In simple terms, more compatibility and fewer “drawer-only” chargers. With USB-C charging becoming the standard for new laptops in the 100W-or-under range, many people will be able to power multiple devices with the same type of charger, whether they’re topping up a laptop, phone, or tablet.
There is an important exception for certain high-performance machines. Some gaming-focused laptops and other power-hungry models that require more than 100W may still use proprietary charging solutions like traditional barrel connectors. However, these devices must still include the required USB-C port, keeping them at least partially aligned with the USB-C charging ecosystem.
Another key part of the EU’s approach is reducing unnecessary accessories and packaging waste. Manufacturers are now required to offer an “unbundled” purchase option, giving consumers the choice to buy a laptop without a power adapter included in the box. This doesn’t mean chargers are banned from laptop packaging. It simply means shoppers must be given the option to skip the charger if they already own a compatible one, helping cut down on duplicate chargers that often go unused.
The EU estimates the updated common charger rules will save consumers around €250 million each year and reduce electronic waste by roughly 11,000 tonnes annually. For many buyers, the benefits are immediate: fewer compatibility headaches, less clutter, and potentially lower costs when choosing the no-charger option.
It’s also worth noting what the rule does not do. It doesn’t affect laptops that are already on sale, and it doesn’t apply to second-hand or refurbished laptops. So if someone truly wants a laptop that lacks USB-C charging, older models and resale markets will still exist. But for new laptops entering the EU market from now on, USB-C charging is quickly becoming the default expectation rather than a nice-to-have.
