How to Charge Your Asus Laptop: A Beginner’s Step-by-Step Guide

If you just got an Asus laptop or have been using one for a while but find yourself confused about how to charge it properly, you’re not alone. Charging laptops might seem straightforward—plug the charger in and wait. But Asus laptops come in a variety of models with different power requirements, and using the wrong charger or charging method can be frustrating or even harm your device. So, how do you know what charger to use? How long should you expect the charging to take? And is it safe to use third-party chargers?

Let’s break all this down in simple steps and give you the confidence to keep your Asus laptop powered up without any headaches.

What Type of Charger is Compatible with My Asus Laptop?

Find the Right Charger Model and Wattage

One of the biggest pain points is figuring out which charger is actually compatible. Asus makes dozens of laptop models—each with its own power needs. Using the wrong charger, like one with insufficient wattage or the wrong connector, can lead to slow charging or no charging at all.

Here’s how to find the right one:

• Check Your Laptop’s Specifications: Look at the label on the bottom of your laptop or check the user manual. It should state the required input voltage (V) and current (A). For example, it might say “19V 3.42A,” which means your charger should deliver 19 volts and around 3.42 amps.
• Match the Connector: Asus laptops typically use barrel connectors, but newer models may use USB-C for charging. Double-check your laptop’s charging port shape.
• Look for the Wattage: Multiply volts by amps to get watts. In the example above, 19V * 3.42A = about 65 watts. This means your charger should be rated for at least 65W.
• Buy Genuine or Certified Chargers: Whenever possible, get an original Asus charger. If not, get a reputable third-party charger that explicitly lists compatibility with your model.

For example, the Asus ZenBook 14 often uses a 65W USB-C charger, while the ROG Strix gaming laptops might need a beefier 120W or even 180W charger.

How Do I Properly Connect and Charge an Asus Laptop?

Step 1: Power Off or Sleep Mode

You can charge your Asus laptop whether it’s on, in sleep mode, or off. But if you want it to charge faster, shut it down or put it to sleep first. It reduces the power consumption so more juice goes straight to the battery.

Step 2: Plug Charger into Power Outlet

Ensure the power outlet you’re using works. It sounds obvious, but sometimes no charging happens because the socket has no power or a faulty adapter.

Step 3: Connect Charger to Laptop

• Align the charger plug with the laptop’s charging port carefully.
• Don’t force the connector—it should slide in smoothly.
• If your Asus uses USB-C charging, insert the cable firmly; it’s reversible, so no worries about “upside down” orientation.

Step 4: Wait for Charging Indicator

Most Asus laptops have an LED indicator near the charging port or on the laptop itself that lights up when charging starts. Also, check your screen’s battery icon, which usually shows a charging symbol (a lightning bolt).

Step 5: Avoid Using the Laptop Intensively While Charging

Yes, you can use your laptop while charging. But intensive tasks like gaming or video editing while charging can cause the battery to charge more slowly or heat up. If you’re in no rush, it’s best to give it a break.

How Long Does It Take to Fully Charge an Asus Laptop?

This varies a lot based on the model and battery capacity. But here’s a general idea:

For example, an Asus ZenBook 14 with a 50Wh battery and a 65W charger will usually charge from 0 to 100% in about 2 hours if the laptop is off or idle. If you’re gaming, it might take longer because the system uses power simultaneously.

Keep in mind that most laptops charge faster from 0 to 80% and slow down from 80 to 100% to protect the battery’s health.

According to Asus official support, it’s normal for charging times to fluctuate depending on battery health, usage during charging, and ambient temperature [1].

Can I Use Third-Party Chargers Safely with My Asus Laptop?

This is a big question! You might wonder, “Do I have to buy an Asus charger only, or can cheaper third-party ones do the job?”

The Short Answer: Yes, but with caution.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Voltage and Amperage Must Match: The charger must output the same voltage as your laptop requires. The amperage can be equal or higher but never lower.
• Wattage Should Meet or Exceed Requirements: Using a charger with a wattage rating lower than your laptop’s need can cause slow charging or no charging.
• Connector Compatibility: The plug must fit perfectly without forcing it.
• Quality and Certification: Avoid super cheap, unbranded chargers. They can be unsafe and damage your battery or laptop. Look for chargers with certifications like UL, CE, or FCC.
• USB-C Chargers: If your Asus laptop supports USB-C charging, make sure the third-party charger supports USB Power Delivery (PD) and can deliver sufficient wattage.

Real-Life Example

A friend of mine once bought an inexpensive no-brand charger off a marketplace for her Asus VivoBook. It claimed 65W, but it didn’t charge the laptop properly and sometimes made the laptop shut down unexpectedly. After switching back to an original Asus charger, the problem disappeared.

Risks of Using Incompatible Chargers

• Battery won’t charge or charges very slowly
• Battery health could degrade faster
• Overheating or damage to your laptop’s charging circuit
• Safety hazards like short circuits or electric shocks

According to consumer electronics safety guidelines, using uncertified chargers can void your warranty and pose a fire hazard [2]. So it’s really not worth the risk.

Troubleshooting Common Charging Problems

Sometimes, even when you’re using the right charger, your Asus laptop refuses to charge or charges slowly. Here’s some quick troubleshooting:

Tips to Keep Your Asus Laptop Battery Healthy

• Don’t let your battery drain to 0% regularly—it can reduce battery life.
• If you mostly use your laptop plugged in, try to unplug occasionally and use battery power.
• Avoid charging in very hot environments.
• Use Asus Battery Health Charging software (some models have this) to extend battery longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I leave my Asus laptop plugged in all the time?
A: Yes, modern laptops have smart charging circuits to prevent overcharging. But giving the battery a break now and then helps prolong battery life.

Q: Why is my Asus laptop charging slowly even with the original charger?
A: It could be due to heavy usage while charging, an older battery, or background tasks consuming power. Closing unnecessary apps or charging with the laptop off can help.

Q: How do I know if my Asus charger is original?
A: Original chargers have Asus branding, proper labeling with model numbers, and come with quality packaging. Buying from Asus or authorized dealers is safest.

Final Thoughts

Charging your Asus laptop doesn’t have to be a mystery. Knowing the right charger type, how to connect it, and what to expect can save you a lot of frustration. Always use the correct charger wattage and connector type, avoid cheap third-party chargers without certifications, and keep an eye on your laptop’s charging behavior.

If something feels off—like your laptop overheating or not charging—it’s better to stop and troubleshoot rather than push through and risk damaging your device. With these tips, you’ll keep your Asus laptop happy and ready for work or play.

References

[1] Asus Official Support – Battery Charging Information
https://www.asus.com/support/FAQ/101010/

[2] Consumer Product Safety Commission – Charging Device Safety Tips
https://www.cpsc.gov/safety-education/safety-guides/home/charging-device-safety

Disclaimer: Always use chargers specified by the manufacturer to avoid electrical hazards. If you experience overheating or electrical faults while charging, stop immediately and seek professional assistance. This article is for informational purposes and does not replace professional technical advice.