How to charge a laptop with an HDMI cable

Tomorrow is a work-from-home day. You brought your laptop from the office but forgot its charger. It typically runs for hours on battery power, but it needs recharging before an important video call with your boss. Can you charge a laptop with HDMI, you wonder? Maybe!

Asurion Experts find easy solutions to tech's biggest problems. Want to know how to fix a laptop battery that isn't charging? Or what the signs of a laptop that needs a new battery are? We cover those topics and more. Here's how to charge a laptop with HDMI cables.

Can you charge a laptop with an HDMI cable?

Yes, it's possible to charge a laptop using an HDMI cable if you have an HDMI IN port. However, most laptops only have an HDMI OUT port. The HDMI OUT port lets you project your desktop onto a second screen, but it won't charge your laptop.

If your laptop has an HDMI IN port, you can easily charge it using a secondary power source such as a TV or another laptop. All you need is an HDMI cable.

To find out whether you have an HDMI IN port, check the labels on your laptop. If you see HDMI IN next to the HDMI port, you can charge it. If there are no labels, verify what type of HDMI ports the device has with your laptop's user manual. 

You may charge a laptop that doesn't have an HDMI IN port using a USB-C adapter. This adapter includes a place to plug in the HDMI cable from the power source. You'll plug the USB-C into an available USB-C slot on your device. 

How to charge a laptop using an HDMI cable

You've confirmed you have an HDMI IN port on your laptop. Follow these steps to initiate the charging process.

1. Gather equipment

You'll need an HDMI cable, laptop, and a power source. Confirm the HDMI cable is long enough to plug into both devices. If your laptop doesn't have an HDMI IN port, locate an HDMI to USB-C cable or adapter. 

2. Connect the HDMI cable to a power source

Most electronic devices with an HDMI OUT port are suitable for charging your laptop. Common sources include computer monitors or TVs. Plug the HDMI cable into the power source's HDMI OUT port.

3. Attach the HDMI cable to your laptop or the adapter

Insert the other end of the HDMI cable into the HDMI IN port of your laptop. Be careful not to use too much force. It should fit snugly into the port. 

If you do not have an HDMI IN port, plug the other end of the HDMI cable into the HDMI USB-C adapter. Then, plug the USB-C cord into your laptop.

4. Verify the laptop is charging

Check your laptop's on-screen battery or power icon to see if it's charging. Most laptops show a lightning bolt next to the battery icon to indicate power input.

Limitations and risks of charging via HDMI

An HDMI charging solution works in a pinch, but it isn't something to use on a daily basis. Here's why.

Slower charging speeds compared to original chargers

You'll notice that HDMI charging takes much longer than usual. That's because HDMI cords carry much less voltage than a laptop charger. Several hours may pass before an HDMI cable fully recharges a depleted battery. 

Compatibility issues with different laptops and HDMI ports

Very few laptop models include an HDMI IN port. If your device doesn't have this type of port, you may need a USB-C adapter to facilitate charging. 

Potential risks to laptop battery and HDMI port

Improper charging using HDMI may damage your laptop or the power source. Verify you're using the correct HDMI port on both devices before attempting to charge. A quick check may save you a trip to the repair shop.

Alternatives for charging your laptop

If you don't have an HDMI cable handy or you want a different solution, consider these options.

Using a USB-C charger or power bank

You might use a USB-C charger to power your smartphone or other electronic devices. Try connecting the laptop to the charger using a two-sided USB-C cord. It should charge the laptop. 

Power banks store electrical power to charge up devices when a wall outlet isn't available. They're ideal for travelers without access to a power outlet. 

Purchasing a universal laptop charger

If you're frequently on the go, it's worth buying a universal laptop charger. This type of charger works with most laptops and serves as a backup power source. Before purchasing one, check its compatibility and voltage with your device to confirm it's a good fit.