Why Your Laptop Needs USB-C Ports on Both Sides

The existence of two USB-C ports, each supporting Power Delivery—one on either side—transforms your workflow, travel, and device connectivity.

Not all USB-C ports offer the same capabilities

Although USB-C offers numerous advantages, not all USB-C ports possess the same quality. Numerous laptops currently feature numerous USB-C ports, however their functionalities can differ significantly. Certain models can supply up to 240W for rapid charging, but others offer merely 15W. Certain ports exclusively manage data, while others just provide power; numerous ports accommodate both functions, however with differing speeds and specifications. Data transfer capabilities vary from standard USB 2.0 to high-speed Thunderbolt 4, making it essential to understand the specifications of each port.

I am campaigning for laptops equipped with two USB-C ports, both of which allow full Power Delivery charging. Neither a charging port nor a data port is present. One full-powered port and one restricted accessory port. Two identical ports, each capable of fulfilling your laptop's entire charging requirements.

One Defective Port Results in a Nonfunctional Laptop

If your laptop possesses a singular charging port and it malfunctions, the device becomes inoperable. Although USB-C ports are technically guaranteed for a minimum of 10,000 insertion and removal cycles, they experience greater wear than conventional barrel chargers due to their multifunctionality—encompassing charging, display, storage, and peripheral connections. Every insertion and removal exerts stress on the connection, with that singular port enduring the entirety of it.

Although USB-C ports can be repaired, the process is costly. Repairing them necessitates specialist tools and proficiency to desolder and substitute the port, which is significantly more intricate than mending a conventional barrel jack. If the damage impacts the motherboard's traces or power delivery components, a total motherboard replacement may be necessary, incurring much greater expenses.

I experienced this directly with my HP Pavilion gaming laptop. The initial 150W charger malfunctioned after two years. I intended to get a new one; however, HP no longer offers it for sale. I am currently reliant on third-party replacements that typically endure for approximately six months, if I am fortunate. After four defective chargers, my sole alternatives are to continue purchasing these insubstantial replacements or invest in a 200W charger, which the firm may discontinue at any moment.

Four replacement charges at $40 each total $160 wasted. This is sufficient for two high-quality USB-C chargers capable of powering all my devices. If my laptop included dual USB-C charging connections, I could utilize any appropriate high-wattage charger. In the event of a port failure, I would possess a backup and would not be compelled to expedite repairs.

Dual Ports Enhance Convenience

The placement of the two USB-C ports is as significant as their presence. The presence of charging ports on both sides of a laptop significantly enhances convenience. You may connect to the outlet from the nearest side of your desk, eliminating the need for a cable to traverse your workstation. When situated in a café or aboard an aircraft, utilize the side that most effectively accesses the power outlet, avoiding the need to extend a cable over your lap or intrude upon another's personal space.

This pertains not solely to convenience; it also maintains a more organized setup. One side allows for charging, while the opposite side accommodates connection for your mouse, keyboard, or hub, so preventing cable entanglement in a single location. It prolongs the lifespan of your laptop ports by preventing the repeated use of a single port. Utilizing USB-C for charging, data transfer, and accessories is facilitated by the presence of ports on both sides, enhancing convenience.

Reasons Laptop Manufacturers Continue to Reduce Port Options

Manufacturers refrain from incorporating USB-C connections on both sides for three primary reasons: expense, design considerations, and profitability.

Initially, incorporating an additional full-powered USB-C connector on the opposing side is not only a matter of creating another aperture in the chassis. The entire motherboard must be redesigned to effectively route high-speed, high-power connections to both sides. It is also essential to replicate costly power delivery controllers and protective circuits, in addition to managing excess heat from components distributed throughout the device. This introduces complexity, engineering time, and expense.

Secondly, brands persist in pursuing ultra-slim designs to the detriment of functionality. Each port requires internal space in addition to external space. Companies prioritize smaller designs over functional functionality, recognizing that consumers will purchase the most aesthetically pleasing laptop available, despite the inconvenience of managing dongles and navigating cumbersome wire arrangements.

Third, additional ports are marketed as a premium attribute. Basic versions include simplified port configurations, whilst many luxury lines exclude evident attributes such as dual-sided USB-C. To obtain many USB-C ports with charging capabilities, one must purchase the $2,000 Pro version. It is intentional, and it is effective—individuals incur higher costs for features that ought to be standard.

One reason to appreciate Framework's modular laptop is its successful approach to port design, which addresses common shortcomings found in other devices. A small company has successfully implemented USB-C on both sides with interchangeable modules, although major technology corporations with extensive R&D expenditures assert that it is overly complicated to incorporate this essential flexibility. The modular approach incurs higher expenses; yet, it reveals the major companies' justifications for their actions: just laziness masquerading as engineering limitations.

The Ecological Expense

All this corner-cutting incurs an environmental cost. Piles of proprietary chargers destined for landfills might be substituted with universal USB-C chargers compatible with all devices. A single charger for your laptop, tablet, phone, and accessories — this is the assurance of USB-C. Nonetheless, it will only be efficacious if manufacturers cease their reluctance.

Every contemporary laptop should standardly feature two Power Delivery connectors, one located on each side. We want contingency solutions for essential charging and the adaptability to accommodate any workspace. When purchasing your next laptop, ensure that both USB-C ports, rather than just one, are capable of supporting full Power Delivery. It is a straightforward function that significantly enhances daily usability.

In an era where supercomputers may be housed in our pockets, the demand for two identical charging connections should be regarded not as a significant innovation, but as a matter of common sense.