One of the most common questions Nigerian laptop buyers ask is whether it is safe to use a laptop while it is charging. Many students, professionals, and remote workers rely on their laptops for long hours, often plugged in throughout the day.
At PSERO, we sell and test laptops daily, especially UK-used laptops for students and professionals. Based on real-world usage and manufacturer standards, here is the honest answer.
Short Answer: Yes, It Is Safe — If Done Correctly
Using your laptop while charging is generally safe. In fact, modern laptops are designed to handle this situation.
However, how you charge and how long you keep the laptop plugged in can affect battery health over time. Therefore, understanding the right practices matters.
How Modern Laptop Charging Works
Most modern laptops sold at PSERO use smart charging systems. These systems are designed to:
Stop charging once the battery reaches 100%
Draw power directly from the charger during use
Reduce stress on the battery during heavy tasks
As a result, the laptop does not “overcharge” in the traditional sense.
When Charging While Using a Laptop Is Completely Safe
Charging while using your laptop is safe when:
You are using the original or recommended charger
The laptop has proper ventilation
The laptop is placed on a flat surface
You are performing normal tasks (browsing, typing, watching videos)
For example, students attending online classes or professionals working remotely can safely keep their laptops plugged in.
You can see laptops suitable for long study and work hours here:
👉 https://psero.com
When Charging While Using a Laptop Can Become a Problem
Although charging is safe, problems can arise under certain conditions.
1. Excessive Heat Build-Up
Heat is the biggest enemy of laptop batteries.
Problems occur when:
The laptop is used on a bed or pillow
Air vents are blocked
Heavy software runs for long hours while charging
Over time, this can reduce battery lifespan.
2. Using Fake or Incompatible Chargers
Using cheap or fake chargers is dangerous.
These can cause:
Overheating
Power fluctuations
Battery swelling
Motherboard damage
At PSERO, we always advise buyers to use original or tested chargers with every laptop.
3. Keeping the Laptop Plugged In 24/7
While laptops stop charging at 100%, staying plugged in all the time keeps the battery under constant voltage.
Therefore, long-term habits like this may reduce battery health gradually.
Best Charging Practices Recommended by PSERO
Based on our testing and customer experience, here are safe habits:
Charge the laptop to 80–90%, then unplug occasionally
Avoid draining the battery to 0% regularly
Use the laptop on a hard, flat surface
Keep the laptop cool during heavy use
Shut down or sleep the laptop when not in use
These habits help extend battery life, especially for UK-used laptops.
Does Charging While Using Affect UK-Used Laptops Differently?
UK-used laptops behave the same way as brand-new ones, provided the battery is still healthy.
However, since UK-used laptops have already gone through some charge cycles, good charging habits matter even more.
This is why PSERO:
Checks battery condition before selling
Clearly informs buyers about expected battery performance
Recommends usage habits for longer battery life
You can learn more about how we test laptops here:
👉 https://psero.com
Common Myths Nigerians Believe About Laptop Charging
Myth 1: Charging while using will explode the battery
→ False. Modern laptops are built to prevent this.
Myth 2: You must remove the battery before charging
→ False. Most modern laptops have non-removable batteries.
Myth 3: Always drain battery to 0% before charging
→ False. This damages lithium-ion batteries.
Final Verdict from PSERO
Charging while using your laptop is safe, normal, and expected — as long as you use the right charger, manage heat, and adopt good habits.
Whether you are a student, NYSC member, or remote worker, proper charging practices will help your laptop last longer and perform better.