How do I know which Surface Pro charger I need?

Choosing the right charger for your Surface Pro is not just about finding a plug that fits the port.
You need to match the connector type, wattage (power rating) and
supported models to avoid slow charging, overheating or damage to your battery.
This guide shows you, step by step, how to identify the correct Surface Pro charger.

Already know your Surface model and just need a compatible charger?


Browse Microsoft Surface chargers

1. Step one: confirm your exact Surface Pro model

Different Surface Pro generations can use similar-looking chargers but with different power ratings.
Always start by confirming the exact model name:

  1. Open Settings in Windows.
  2. Go to System > About.
  3. Look under Device specifications for names like:
    Surface Pro 4, Surface Pro 6, Surface Pro 7,
    Surface Pro 8, Surface Pro 9, Surface Pro X, etc.

Write this down. A charger that is perfect for a Surface Pro 7 may not be ideal for an older Surface Pro 3,
even if the connector looks the same.

2. Step two: check how your Surface Pro charges

Surface Pro devices use one or both of these charging methods:

  • Surface Connect – the slim magnetic blade connector on the side of the device.
  • USB-C Power Delivery (PD) – available on newer models with a USB-C port that supports charging.

In general:

  • Surface Pro 3, 4, 5 (2017), 6 – use Surface Connect only (no USB-C charging).
  • Surface Pro 7, 7+, 8, 9 and Surface Pro X – support Surface Connect
    and USB-C PD.

If you want the most reliable, “OEM-like” experience, choose a Surface Connect charger matched
to your device’s power needs. USB-C PD is excellent as an extra option or for travel.

3. Step three: read the rating on your old charger (if available)

If you still have the original charger, check the label on the power brick. You should see:

  • Output voltage (e.g. 15V)
  • Output current (e.g. 2.58A, 2.6A, 4A)
  • Wattage (e.g. 39W, 44W, 65W)

Common Surface Connect ratings include:

  • 39W (15V 2.6A) – compact, travel-friendly power level.
  • 44W (15V 2.58A) – classic everyday Surface Pro charger.
  • 65W (15V 4A) – for higher-power models and heavier workloads.

Your replacement charger should match or exceed the original wattage.
Never downgrade to a lower wattage, as it may cause slow charging or battery drain while in use.

4. Choosing between 39W, 44W and 65W Surface Connect chargers

Here are three professional-grade Surface Connect adapters and when each is the best fit.

15V 2.58A 44W – standard Surface Pro charger for everyday use


15V 2.58A 44W Microsoft Surface Connect AC adapter charger

The 15V 2.58A 44W Surface Connect charger
closely matches many original Microsoft adapters and is ideal if:

  • You mainly use your Surface Pro for office apps, browsing and meetings.
  • Your original charger was rated around 44W.
  • You want a direct “like-for-like” replacement with stable performance.

15V 2.6A 39W – compact option for lighter workloads and travel


15V 2.6A 39W Microsoft 1963 Surface Connect AC adapter charger

The 15V 2.6A 39W “Model 1963” Surface charger
focuses on portability:

  • Best for smaller or more efficient Surface devices originally shipped with a 39W brick.
  • Excellent as a second, lightweight travel charger.
  • Suitable if your usage is light (email, web, documents) and you don’t push the CPU hard on battery.

15V 4A 65W – high-power charger for demanding Surface setups


15V 4A 65W Microsoft Surface Connect AC adapter charger

The 15V 4A 65W Surface Connect charger
is the better choice if you:

  • Use newer or higher-performance Surface models.
  • Run multiple apps, video calls and external displays at the same time.
  • Want a single, powerful adapter that can comfortably support several Surface devices.

Using a 65W charger on a device that originally shipped with a 39W or 44W adapter is safe –
the Surface Pro will only draw the power it needs. However, you should avoid using a
lower-wattage charger on a device that expects more power.

Still unsure which wattage is right for your Surface Pro?


View all Microsoft Surface chargers

5. What if I want to use USB-C instead?

Some Surface Pro models (7, 7+, 8, 9, Pro X) can also charge via USB-C Power Delivery (PD).
If you go this route, make sure the USB-C charger:

  • Supports USB-C PD (not just basic USB charging).
  • Provides at least 45W, ideally 60–65W.
  • Offers a 15V or 20V PD profile.
  • Is used with a high-quality, e-marked USB-C cable.

Even with USB-C available, many users still rely on a Surface Connect charger as their primary adapter
and treat USB-C as a flexible backup.

6. Quick checklist: choosing the right Surface Pro charger

  • Identify your model: Surface Pro 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, Pro X, etc.
  • Connector: Surface Connect is required for all; USB-C PD is optional on newer models.
  • Wattage: match or exceed the original (39W / 44W / 65W are common).
  • Quality: choose a charger with proper protection (OVP, OCP, OTP) from a trusted supplier.

Once you know your model, connector type and wattage, picking the right Surface Pro charger
becomes straightforward. A correctly specified adapter will give you stable charging, protect
your battery and keep your Surface ready for work, study and travel.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

1 + 6 =
Powered by MathCaptcha

Scroll to Top