Official: All new laptops must have USB-C to be sold in the EU; new "charger in the box" rules; exceptions for gaming laptops

As of April 28, the European Union’s common charger directive has officially entered its final phase, ending the 16-month grace period previously granted to laptop manufacturers.

Following the 2024 rollout for smartphones and tablets, all new laptops sold within the 27 EU member states must now feature at least one USB-C port for charging.

The law applies to all portable computers with a power delivery rating of up to 100W. High-performance devices, such as gaming laptops that exceed this threshold, may still utilize proprietary barrel-plug connectors, provided they also include the mandatory USB-C port.

All newly-launched laptops must have USB-C to be sold in the EU now; "unbundled" option with no charger in the box mandatory; exceptions for gaming laptops

Furthermore, OEMs must now offer "unbundled" options, allowing consumers to purchase hardware without a power adapter to curb e-waste.

In case you're wondering, the law does not ban chargers from being included in the box. Instead, it requires manufacturers to offer an unbundled option where the device is sold without one. This gives consumers the choice to reuse their existing chargers, with the goal of reducing e-waste and lowering costs.

The EU Commission estimates these measures will save consumers €250 million annually and prevent roughly 11,000 tonnes of electronic waste, signaling a permanent shift in the European tech landscape.

Important: The new law doesn’t affect laptops that are already on sale. Of course, second-hand and refurbished laptops are also excluded. You know - in case you really want a laptop without USB-C.