USB (Universal Serial Bus) ports are an essential part of modern computing, allowing users to connect a variety of devices, including smartphones, external drives, cameras, and other peripherals.
While USB devices are generally plug-and-play, users often face issues with insufficient power delivery, causing devices to charge slowly or fail to operate correctly. In Windows 11, increasing USB power output can improve device performance and charging speed.
This article explains multiple methods to increase USB power output safely and effectively.
Understanding USB Power and Its Limits
USB ports provide both data transfer and power to connected devices. The amount of power supplied depends on the USB version and hardware limitations:
- USB 2.0: Provides up to 500 mA (0.5 A) at 5V.
- USB 3.0/3.1: Provides up to 900 mA (0.9 A) at 5V.
- USB-C (USB 3.2/USB4): Can deliver up to 3 A or more, depending on Power Delivery (PD) support.
Low power output can cause slow charging or device malfunctions. Fortunately, Windows 11 allows users to tweak settings and manage hardware to improve USB power delivery.
Method 1: Enable USB Selective Suspend Settings
USB selective suspend allows the operating system to save power by turning off unused USB devices. Disabling or adjusting this setting can help increase power output for active devices.
Steps to Adjust USB Selective Suspend in Windows 11:
- Press Windows + S and type Control Panel, then press Enter.
- Navigate to Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
- Click on Change plan settings next to your active power plan.
- Select Change advanced power settings.
- In the pop-up, expand USB settings > USB selective suspend setting.
- Change the setting to Disabled for both On battery and Plugged in.
- Click Apply and OK.
Disabling selective suspend ensures that USB devices receive consistent power, which can improve performance for power-hungry peripherals.
Method 2: Update USB Drivers
Outdated or corrupt USB drivers can limit power output and affect device functionality. Updating drivers ensures that your USB ports deliver optimal power.
Steps to Update USB Drivers:
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
- Right-click each USB port or hub and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Restart your computer after updating all drivers.
Using the latest drivers ensures that your USB ports operate efficiently and can deliver higher power when required.
Method 3: Use High-Power USB Ports
Not all USB ports on a PC or laptop provide the same amount of power. Some devices, especially laptops, may have low-power USB ports for data transfer only.
- Look for marked ports: Some laptops label high-power USB ports with a battery icon or yellow color.
- USB-C ports with Power Delivery (PD): These ports provide higher current for fast charging.
Connecting devices to the correct high-power port ensures maximum charging speed and better performance.
Method 4: Disable USB Power Management
Windows 11 automatically manages USB power to conserve battery life, which can reduce the output to certain devices. Disabling USB power management can help improve power delivery.
Steps to Disable USB Power Management:
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
- Right-click each USB Root Hub and select Properties.
- Go to the Power Management tab.
- Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.
- Click OK and restart your PC.
This ensures that connected USB devices get uninterrupted power, improving charging and performance.
Method 5: Use a Powered USB Hub
For devices that require more power than the built-in USB ports can provide, a powered USB hub is an excellent solution. A powered hub has its own external power supply and can deliver higher amperage to connected devices without relying on the PC’s USB power.
- Ensure the hub supports fast charging and matches the USB version of your device.
- Avoid using low-quality hubs, as they may not deliver stable power.
Method 6: Adjust BIOS/UEFI Settings
Some motherboards and laptops allow USB power settings to be configured directly from the BIOS/UEFI. Increasing USB current from BIOS can improve output for connected devices.
Steps to Adjust USB Power in BIOS:
- Restart your PC and press the BIOS/UEFI key (usually F2, Del, or Esc).
- Navigate to Advanced > USB Configuration or Power Management.
- Look for settings like USB Charging in Off Mode or USB Power Delivery.
- Enable high-current or fast-charge options.
- Save changes and exit BIOS.
Consult your motherboard manual for exact options, as the terminology can vary between manufacturers.
Method 7: Use Windows Registry Tweaks
Advanced users can tweak USB power settings via the Windows Registry. This method is riskier, so backup your system before making changes.
Steps to Increase USB Power via Registry:
- Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
- Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\USB - Look for DisableSelectiveSuspend.
- If it exists, set its value to 1 to disable selective suspend.
- If it does not exist, create a DWORD (32-bit) Value named DisableSelectiveSuspend and set it to 1.
- Restart your PC.
This tweak disables selective suspend globally, potentially improving USB power output for all devices.
Method 8: Optimize Device Charging
Even if Windows settings are optimized, some devices may not charge efficiently due to cable quality or device compatibility.
- Use high-quality cables: Cheap cables can limit current flow.
- Avoid long cables: Longer cables increase resistance and reduce charging speed.
- Check device compatibility: Some devices require higher amperage than standard USB ports provide.
Method 9: Avoid Overloading USB Ports
Connecting too many devices to a single USB controller can reduce power output to all devices. Spread devices across multiple ports and controllers for optimal performance.
- Use separate USB controllers for high-power devices.
- Avoid chaining too many devices through a non-powered hub.
Best Practices for USB Power Management
- Keep drivers updated: Regularly check for motherboard and USB controller updates.
- Use high-quality peripherals: Charging cables and devices that support high-current charging improve output efficiency.
- Monitor device performance: Use tools like USBDeview or HWInfo to check voltage and current.
- Avoid heat build-up: Excessive heat can reduce USB power output. Ensure proper ventilation.
- Use external power when needed: For devices like external hard drives or phones, powered hubs often provide more consistent results than the PC alone.
Common Problems and Solutions
- Slow charging on USB devices: Check cable quality, use high-power ports, and disable selective suspend.
- Device not recognized: Update USB drivers and disable USB power management.
- Overheating USB port: Reduce connected devices or use a powered USB hub.
- Fast-charging not working on USB-C: Ensure the port supports Power Delivery (PD) and use compatible cables.
Conclusion
Increasing USB power output in Windows 11 involves a combination of software adjustments, driver updates, hardware selection, and sometimes BIOS tweaks. While Windows 11 manages USB power efficiently by default, enabling high-power modes, disabling selective suspend, and using quality cables or powered hubs can significantly improve charging speed and device performance.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, users can optimize USB power delivery, ensuring smooth operation of devices and faster charging times. Whether for work, gaming, or personal use, managing USB power output effectively helps maintain device longevity and enhances overall PC usability.
