How to Charge Surface RT Without Charger: The Ultimate Guide

You’re on the go, your Surface RT is running low on power, and you’ve left your charger behind. Panic sets in – what are you going to do? Don’t worry, there are actually a few ways to charge your Surface RT without its dedicated charger. This blog post will guide you through some creative solutions to keep your device powered up.

The Power of USB-C

The Surface RT uses a proprietary charging port, but the good news is that you can still use a USB-C port to charge it. Here’s how:

• USB-C to Surface Connector: The most straightforward way is to find a USB-C to Surface connector cable. This type of cable has a USB-C connector on one end and a Surface connector on the other. You can plug the USB-C end into any USB-C power adapter, including laptop chargers, power banks, or car chargers.
• USB-C Hub: If you have a USB-C hub, you can connect your Surface RT to the hub and then plug a USB-C power adapter into the hub. This will provide power to your device.

Alternative Power Sources

While a dedicated charger is ideal, you can tap into other power sources in a pinch:

• Laptop Charging: Many laptops have USB-C ports that can output enough power to charge your Surface RT. Simply connect your Surface RT to your laptop using a USB-C to Surface connector cable.
• Power Banks: Power banks are portable batteries that can be used to charge your phone, tablet, or other devices. Look for a power bank with a USB-C output and use a USB-C to Surface connector cable to charge your Surface RT.
• Car Chargers: If you’re in a car, you can use a car charger with a USB-C output to charge your Surface RT.

Important Considerations

Before you start charging your Surface RT with a non-standard power source, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Voltage and Amperage: Make sure the power source you’re using has the correct voltage and amperage for your Surface RT. Too much power can damage your device.
• Charging Speed: Charging your Surface RT with a non-standard power source may be slower than using its dedicated charger.
• Device Compatibility: Not all USB-C power adapters are compatible with the Surface RT. Check the specifications of the adapter before using it.

Boosting Your Battery Life

Even if you’re unable to charge your Surface RT, there are some steps you can take to extend its battery life:

• Reduce Brightness: Dimming the screen can significantly reduce battery consumption.
• Turn Off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: If you’re not using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, turn them off to save power.
• Close Unnecessary Apps: Close any apps that you’re not using to conserve battery life.
• Enable Power Saver Mode: Most devices have a power saver mode that can extend battery life by reducing power consumption.
• Disable Background Processes: Background processes can drain your battery. Disable any unnecessary background processes to save power.

Exploring Other Options

If you’re unable to find a USB-C to Surface connector cable, or your Surface RT is completely dead, there are still a few other options:

• Contact Microsoft Support: Microsoft Support may be able to provide you with a temporary solution or offer guidance on charging your device.
• Visit a Microsoft Store: If you’re near a Microsoft Store, you can visit the store and ask for assistance.

Final Thoughts: Staying Connected

Being without your Surface RT can be a real inconvenience. However, by understanding the options available and taking some simple steps, you can keep your device powered up and stay connected, even when you’re away from your charger.

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I use a regular USB-A charger to charge my Surface RT?
A: No, you cannot use a regular USB-A charger to charge your Surface RT. The Surface RT uses a proprietary charging port, and a USB-A charger will not fit.
Q: How long does it take to charge a Surface RT with a USB-C power adapter?
A: The charging time will vary depending on the power output of the USB-C power adapter. It may take longer than charging with the dedicated Surface RT charger.
Q: Is it safe to charge my Surface RT with a non-standard power source?
A: It’s generally safe to charge your Surface RT with a non-standard power source as long as the voltage and amperage are within the specifications of your device. However, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and use a power source that is specifically designed for your device whenever possible.
Q: What if I can’t find a USB-C to Surface connector cable?
A: If you can’t find a USB-C to Surface connector cable, you can try contacting Microsoft Support or visiting a Microsoft Store for assistance. You may also be able to find a compatible cable online or at an electronics retailer.
Q: Can I use a phone charger to charge my Surface RT?
A: While some phone chargers may have a USB-C output, they may not provide enough power to charge your Surface RT. It’s best to use a power adapter that is specifically designed for your device.