Microsoft is using Windows 11 hardware certification to make USB-C ports on certified mobile PCs behave more consistently for data, charging, and display. The change sets a minimum bar for future certified devices; it does not upgrade existing laptops or guarantee that every USB-C port on every PC has the same capabilities.
What Microsoft’s USB-C fix changes
In a May 30, 2025 announcement, Microsoft said the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) will require certified Windows 11 mobile PCs to meet baseline USB-C capability requirements. The program makes certain features that USB specifications leave optional mandatory for certification, with the aim of making data, charging, and display work consistently across a device’s USB-C ports. Microsoft describes the goal as USB data, charging, and display that “just works” on all USB-C ports. Microsoft’s USB blog
Microsoft also says a WHCP-certified system advertised for USB 40Gbps will support USB4 and Thunderbolt 3 peripherals. This is a certification baseline, not a promise that every USB-C connector supports every feature or that all existing Windows PCs will gain new capabilities. Microsoft’s USB blog
Why USB-C ports can behave differently
USB-C names the connector shape and reversible plug, not a single set of capabilities. A port may support one or more USB data speeds and may include optional features such as DisplayPort or MHL alternate modes. USB Power Delivery is also optional; Microsoft says USB-C systems can support up to 100W when that capability is implemented. Microsoft’s USB-C FAQ
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That flexibility is why two identical-looking ports on one computer can differ: one may handle charging and data but not video, while another supports the display mode or faster data connection a device needs. Microsoft’s troubleshooting guidance explicitly advises moving a device to another port when the current connector lacks the required alternate mode. Microsoft’s USB-C troubleshooting guide
What Windows notifications can tell you
Windows can show notices about slow charging, a PC that is not charging, a device that needs more power, unsupported USB4, Thunderbolt or DisplayPort functionality, and cases where another USB port is needed. These messages can help identify whether the problem is the selected port, the connected device, or the charger. Microsoft’s USB-C troubleshooting guide
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- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
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- “Use different USB port”: The attached Thunderbolt or DisplayPort device may need a mode that the current connector does not support.
- “USB4 device functionality might be limited”: The PC may not support USB4, so the device may not work with its full functionality.
- Charging warnings: A charger may be too low-powered or otherwise unsuitable for the computer.
Microsoft reports that 27% of PCs with USB4 had encountered a limited-functionality notification, based on Windows Diagnostics Data cited in its 2025 USB blog. That figure applies specifically to PCs with USB4 and that notification; it is not a rate for all USB-C computers. Microsoft’s USB blog
How to choose a USB-C charger for a Windows laptop or Surface
For a Surface device with USB-C, Microsoft recommends a USB Type-C Power Delivery (PD) charger with the wattage required by that model. Check the device’s specifications rather than assuming any USB-C charger will provide enough power. A lower-wattage charger—or a USB-A charger connected through a USB-A-to-USB-C cable—may charge slowly or fail to charge the device. Fast charging also depends on sufficient power and a suitable charging temperature. Microsoft’s Surface charging guidance
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- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
When choosing a charger or assessing a laptop port, check the device maker’s specifications for USB Power Delivery support and required wattage. For data or video, check separately for the stated USB speed, USB4, Thunderbolt, or DisplayPort support. The USB-C shape alone confirms none of those capabilities.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to expect from the certification change
Microsoft’s policy addresses inconsistency in certified Windows 11 mobile PCs by raising the minimum expected behavior. Its practical benefit depends on manufacturers building devices to the requirement and clearly documenting their ports. For existing systems, the capability of each connector remains determined by that PC’s hardware; use its specifications and Windows notifications to identify the appropriate port or charger.
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- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
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- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
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- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
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- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
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