If you have a laptop then you already know that their batteries do not last long enough to do much and the more you use them, the less staying power they have.  This is why it is important to have a laptop power supply.  Now, it has been discussed that you should only use a power supply that comes from the same company as your laptop, but this is false and likely the most expensive option.  However, many people feel more secure knowing that the laptop power supply they are using is made from the same company as their laptop, but either way you can and should purchase your power supply online.  This makes sense because it is near impossible for a local retailer to stock all the possible combinations of wattages, models and other options of power supplies.

For these same reasons, buying the proper replacement power supply is a daunting task for many.  It is difficult to know where to start, but starting by browsing the Internet for online retailers who deal specifically in laptop components is a great place.  The first place to start would be the website for the company that made your laptop.  This way you can compare their name brand price to a more universal laptop power supply.  Here is a list of the major laptop brands and their corresponding prices for power supplies.  These prices are close estimates for new power supplies, but subject to change at any time.  It is important to note that these prices are an average of the different models offered.

HP Laptop Power Supply - $25

Toshiba Laptop Power Supply - $30

Acer Laptop Power Supply - $20

Compaq Laptop Power Supply - $23

You should also consider purchasing a refurbished model of your laptop power source if you are determined to buy the name brand.  Refurbished models often sell for $10 to $15 cheaper than the brand new ones and work perfectly fine.  Try eBay.com or Overstock.com for refurbished models.  They are also great resources for many other types of laptop components.

However, if you are brave enough to venture into the world of the universal laptop power supply, then a whole new world will open up for you.  Imagine having a power supply that not only powers your laptop, but also your MP3 player, mobile phone, PDA, and other mobile devices.  Many universal power supplies come with multiple attachments so you can power almost any mobile device you own.  Of course, there are simple universal power supplies that simply power your laptop for much cheaper prices than buying one direct from the manufacturer. 

Universal laptop power supplies can be as cheap as $15 to upwards or $100.  The price all depends on the wattage and the amount of options the power source comes with.  While these prices may seem high at first, consider the fact that you will be able to power multiple devices with one power supply.  If you purchase each power supply individually, you would easily spend that and much more in the end.  In addition, many people consider the convenience of one power supply a much greater benefit than buying a cheap laptop power supply.  Of course, in the end, you should consider your budget and work within those means.  Either way, you will be able to find a universal power supply that will work for your laptop and your budget!

If you have reached the end of this article then you have learned quite a few things about laptop power supplies.  You may be one of the people who prefer to play it safe and purchase your new laptop power supply directly from the manufacturer of your laptop, which is completely fine, and you have learned some pricing information regarding those supplies.  If you prefer a little more flexibility and have a slightly higher budget to work with, then you are probably in the market for a universal supply to power all your devices and this article provided you with some insight into those units as well.  Regardless of your decision, it is necessary for you to have a power supply for your laptop and now you can feel better informed in order to make the best decision for your situation.