Laptop Power Cords: C5, C7 and Plug Types

Which inlet is on your charger brick?

The cord has to fit the socket on the power brick, not on the laptop. Look at the brick: a cloverleaf inlet with three pins takes an IEC C5 cord, often called a Mickey Mouse cord, a figure-eight inlet with two pins takes a C7 cord, and a larger three-pin inlet takes the C13 used on desktop PCs. The cord's wall end must match your outlet, such as NEMA 5-15P in North America. Do not force a figure-eight cord into a cloverleaf inlet, because the shapes are different and the ground contact matters.

A plain cord or a replacement charger?

Some listings here are not cords but full replacement chargers with a stated voltage and current, such as 19.5 V at 3.33 A, so check that you are choosing the right type. A cord only carries wall power and has no electronics. A charger must match the laptop's voltage, connector tip and wattage. Cord length affects convenience, not charging speed, but lightweight thin cords carry a lower rating, so check the rated amps and volts printed on it, especially for a high-power gaming laptop brick.

Questions about Laptop Power Cords: C5, C7 and Plug Types

How do I know if I need a C5 or a C7 cord?

Look at the inlet on the power brick. Three pins in a cloverleaf-shaped recess mean a C5 cord, which is grounded. Two pins in a figure-eight recess mean a C7 cord, which has no ground. The inlet shape decides, not the laptop brand.

Can I use a longer cord with my laptop charger?

Yes. A longer cord works as long as it has the same connectors and a rating above the charger's input current, which is printed on the brick. It will not slow charging noticeably.

Is it safe to use a two-prong cord instead of a three-prong one?

Only if the charger has a two-pin figure-eight inlet, which takes a C7 cord and is made without a ground. Never remove or bypass the ground pin on a grounded cord because it is part of the charger's safety design.