AC adapter vs USB-C charging?

[JMSheffield1]

HP Envy 14" x360 Laptop - Intel® Core™ Ultra 5, 16GB, Touchscreen (14-fc0007na)

I just ordered an envy x360 to replace my beloved old spectre. I ordered a model with evo and expected that I would be able to charge the laptop with a USB-c cable only through the thunderbolt drive (I also have a newish evo Samsung laptop that only uses a USB cable to charge). I was surprised when my new HP envy arrived with a clunky, huge AC charger cable. Is this necessary, or can I use a USB-C instead? Is there an advantage to using the AC adapter? It seems larger and chunkier than that from my old spectre. Ugh. Thanks in advance!

[Max3Aj]

@JMSheffield1, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 

It's understandable to feel a bit overwhelmed with the new charging setup! Let's break down the options for your HP Envy 14" x360 (14-fc0007na):

Charging Options:

AC Adapter:

• Power Delivery: The AC adapter provides a consistent and reliable power supply tailored specifically for your laptop.
• Higher Wattage: It can deliver higher wattage, which is beneficial for high-performance tasks and ensures your laptop charges efficiently.
• Stability: Traditional chargers are designed to handle the power requirements of your laptop, reducing the risk of underpowering or damaging the device.

USB-C Charging:

• Convenience: USB-C charging is more compact and versatile, allowing you to use the same charger for multiple devices.
• Portability: It's easier to carry around a USB-C charger, especially if you already use one for other devices like your Samsung laptop.
• Compatibility: Ensure your laptop supports USB-C charging through the Thunderbolt port. Many modern laptops do, but it's always good to double-check the specifications.

Advantages of Using the AC Adapter:

• Consistent Power Supply: The AC adapter is designed to provide a stable and consistent power output, which is crucial for maintaining the performance and longevity of your laptop.
• Higher Power Delivery: It can deliver more power compared to USB-C chargers, which is particularly important for resource-intensive tasks.
• Safety: Using the provided AC adapter ensures compatibility and reduces the risk of potential damage from using an incompatible charger.

Can You Use USB-C Instead?

Yes, you can use a USB-C charger if your HP Envy 14" x360 supports it. This can be a convenient alternative, especially for travel. However, for optimal performance and safety, the AC adapter is recommended for regular use.

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Select "Yes" on the bottom left to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support 

[JMSheffield1]

Many thanks for this helpful answer. However, you say that I can use a USB-C charger to charge/power my laptop if my HP Envy supports it. How can I find this out? Does a new HP Envy support this? Thanks again. 

[zoey7886 · Accepted solution]

@JMSheffield1, 

@Max3Aj is away for now, however, I'll be happy to help you out!

Yes, your HP Envy x360 14-fc0007na does support USB-C charging through one of its Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports. That means you can use a USB-C charger — just make sure it delivers at least 65W for reliable charging.

However, for things like performance-heavy tasks (gaming, editing, etc.), we still recommend sticking with the original AC adapter. It's bulkier, yes, but it ensures consistent power delivery under full load.

Hope that clears things up! Let me know if you'd like help finding a good USB-C charger too. 😊

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Select "Yes" on the bottom left to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Regards,

[JMSheffield1]

Thanks, Zoey -- that's a great help! Yes, I'd be grateful if you could recommend a suitable USB-C charger. Thanks again. 

[zoey7886]

@JMSheffield1, A huge thank you for marking this post as the 'Accepted Solution'! We're thrilled that we could help resolve your issue. 

If you have any more questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to ask. We're here to help! 

Thanks again for your confirmation, and we wish you an amazing day ahead! 

Regards,