Frequently asked questions about USB-C

What is USB-C?

With USB-C you can:

• Charge your Surface

• Show video from a computer to an external display

• Use devices with your computer that are compatible with USB-C

• Transfer files and data

• Charge external devices

To determine if a Surface has USB-C port, check the features page for the device. To do this, go to Find out which Surface model you have, and then select the Surface device on the left-hand side. 

Can I charge my Surface with the USB-C port?

Yes, you can charge your Surface with the USB-C port when using an appropriate USB-C PD charger. For more info about power requirements for charging Surface devices using USB-C, see USB-C and Fast Charging for Surface.

What video adapters are available from Microsoft?

We have three different video adapters. For more info, see Set up a Surface USB-C to display adapter

USB-C to DisplayPort
USB-C to HDMI
USB-C to VGA

Is there an audio adapter available from Microsoft?

Yes, we have one audio adapter—USB-C to 3.5mm Audio Adapter. For more info, see Use Surface USB-C to 3.5mm Audio Adapter.

Can I use USB-C with other USB devices?

It depends on what you want to do. You can use USB-C to transfer data to another type of USB port using the right adapter(s). However, displaying video between USB-C and another type of USB won’t work.

Related topic

​​​​​​​Troubleshoot problems with USB-C on Surface