Laptop users replacing a desk charger
If your laptop supports USB-C charging and video output, a monitor with sufficient Power Delivery could let you leave its separate charger unplugged at the desk.
Who these monitors suit
Multi-device home-office users
If your desk also needs wired networking or connections for more than one device, monitor features such as Ethernet or keyboard-and-mouse switching may help consolidate the setup. Check the features on the individual model.
PC-free streaming and casual-work users
If you mainly want to use supported entertainment or work apps without connecting a computer for those activities, consider a smart monitor. App and service availability depends on the model and region.
What matters when choosing
Start with the device you hope to leave unplugged: a laptop charger calls for suitable USB-C charging, while PC-free activities call for the particular smart apps you intend to use. Dock-style connections are a separate consideration if they matter to your desk setup.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Replacing the laptop charger | Compare the monitor’s stated USB-C Power Delivery output with the laptop’s charging requirement; confirm the laptop port supports video and charging. | If I have one spare socket, I want my monitor connection to power my compatible laptop as well as show its display. Around 36% of consumers put replacing the separate charger first. |
| Consolidating desk connections | Check for the connections you will use, such as Ethernet, and whether functions such as KVM support your devices. | When I connect several devices at the desk, I want the monitor to handle the connections that matter to my setup. For around 29% of consumers, that consolidation is the primary need. |
| Keeping the display setup simple | Check the USB-C display connection, stated charging output and whether a suitable cable is included. | If I will keep using my laptop charger, I mainly want a straightforward display connection rather than higher-power charging. Around 21% of consumers prioritise that simpler arrangement. |
| Using apps without a connected PC | Confirm the chosen smart monitor supports your apps and services, along with their network and account requirements. | For streaming or selected app-based tasks, I would rather not connect and power a separate computer. That PC-free use is the leading concern for around 14% of consumers. |
Checks that are easy to miss
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Assuming every USB-C port can replace a laptop charger
LG UK specifies up to 15W Power Delivery for the 27U631A-B, compared with up to 90W for the 27U730A-B. A USB-C display connection alone does not establish that it can supply the power your laptop needs.
Compare the exact monitor model’s stated output with your laptop’s charging requirement before planning to unplug its charger.
If the output is insufficient, you will still need a separate way to charge the laptop at the desk.
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Choosing smart features to solve a charging problem
Samsung describes PC-free use for supported Smart Monitor activities, but built-in apps do not establish that a particular model can charge your laptop.
Choose the apps you will use for PC-free activities; choose a monitor with suitable, confirmed USB-C Power Delivery if the laptop charger is the socket you need to free.
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Overlooking the cable and laptop port
The intended single-cable setup depends on the laptop’s USB-C capabilities and a suitable cable. LG UK states that the USB-C cable for its 27U631A-B is sold separately.
Check your laptop’s video and charging support, then confirm the cable and other package contents for the exact monitor you order.
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Using damaged or unsuitable electrical equipment
The Health and Safety Executive advises checking that electrically powered equipment is suitable for its supply and that the supply is safe.
Use a correctly specified power lead and check the plug and cable before use. Stop using equipment with visible damage until a competent person has checked it.
Brands to consider
LG
LG’s UK USB-C monitor range includes models with substantially different charging outputs, so the model number matters when the aim is to replace a laptop charger.
- LG UK specifies simultaneous USB-C display, data and up to 90W charging for the 27U730A-B.
- LG UK specifies up to 15W for the 27U631A-B and says its USB-C cable is sold separately; do not assume the higher output applies across the range.
Dell
Dell’s USB-C hub monitors are worth considering when laptop charging and wired networking both matter at the desk.
- Dell UK specifies up to 90W USB-C Power Delivery and RJ45 Ethernet for the P3425WE.
- The P3425WE is a 34.1-inch ultrawide model; check that its format and your available desk space suit the setup.
Samsung
Samsung has models relevant to two different needs: dock-style laptop connections and built-in apps for selected PC-free activities.
- Samsung UK specifies up to 90W USB-C charging, LAN, daisy chaining and KVM functionality for the S60UD.
- Samsung’s Smart Monitor features and services vary by model and region; smart functionality does not establish the USB-C charging capability of a chosen model.
Joybuy monitor choices
These monitors offer different display formats for a desk where USB-C connectivity or laptop charging is part of the decision. Check each model’s stated charging output, your laptop’s port capabilities and the space available before deciding whether it can replace a separate charger.
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ASUS ProArt PA24ACRV IPS QHD monitor
Consider this QHD IPS model for a laptop desk, but confirm its USB-C charging output against your laptop’s requirements before relying on it to free a socket.
Check whether a suitable USB-C cable is included with the offered package. The monitor still needs mains power.
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BenQ MA320UP Nano Glossy 32-inch 4K UHD USB-C monitor
This Mac-oriented, height-adjustable display is an option if you want a larger USB-C workspace and have room for its 32-inch format.
Confirm the charging output, your laptop’s USB-C video and charging support, and whether a suitable cable is included. The monitor needs mains power.
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ASUS ZenScreen MB249C IPS USB-C monitor
The ZenScreen’s USB-C connection makes it worth checking for a flexible desk setup, particularly if monitor placement matters to you.
Compare its stated charging output with your laptop’s needs and confirm its video support and included power accessories. The monitor still requires power.
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Acer X Predator X49X 49-inch curved ultrawide QD-OLED monitor
Consider this model only if a large, curved screen suits your desk as well as your laptop-connection needs.
Its listed format is 49 inches at 32:9, with a 240Hz refresh rate. Check the stated USB-C charging output and laptop compatibility before treating it as a charger replacement.
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Dahua 32-inch 4K 165Hz curved OLED gaming monitor, Type-C 65W
Its stated Type-C 65W output makes laptop charging worth considering if 65W meets your device’s requirement; also check the USB-C video functions your laptop needs.
The product name specifies a 32-inch curved OLED display and USB hub. Confirm that the screen format fits your desk; the monitor still needs mains power.
Questions about monitor connections
Will a USB-C monitor free up a wall socket?
It can free the socket used by a laptop charger if its Power Delivery output is sufficient and the laptop supports charging and video over the connection. The monitor itself remains plugged into the mains.
Can any USB-C monitor replace my laptop charger?
No: charging output varies by model. LG UK specifies up to 15W for the 27U631A-B and up to 90W for the 27U730A-B, so compare the exact monitor’s rating with your laptop’s requirement and check its USB-C port capabilities.
Can I use a smart monitor without connecting a computer?
Yes, for activities supported by that model’s built-in apps. Samsung describes PC-free use for selected Smart Monitor functions; check the particular services, network connection and account requirements you need.
What should I check before powering a monitor at my desk?
Check that the equipment and power lead are suitable for the electrical supply and are in good condition. The Health and Safety Executive advises checking supply suitability and safety; do not use equipment with a visibly damaged plug or cable until it has been checked.
Will a USB-C cable be included?
Check the box contents for the exact model and offer rather than assuming it will be included. LG UK explicitly says the USB-C cable for its 27U631A-B is sold separately.