By Jon Fingas
Publication Date: 2026-10-07 20:25:00
Microsoft’s long-expected Surface Laptop Ultra release came with a surprise: a new approach to charging. The tech giant has unveiled a Magnetic Connect feature that serves as the equivalent to Apple’s MagSafe for Windows PCs, with its own set of advantages and tradeoffs.
The Ultra’s right-side USB-C port has built-in magnets to grab Microsoft’s matching power cable. If you trip over the cord or need to unplug in a hurry, you won’t pull the entire laptop at the same time.
The difference between this, MagSafe, and Microsoft’s previous Surface Connect is simply the use of a standard port. External drives, monitors, and other USB-C devices work as they normally would. This also frees up valuable space that would normally be reserved for a proprietary connection.
There are some compromises. As you’d guess, this occupies one of your USB-C ports. You’ll have just two free spots until you unplug. This won’t necessarily be an issue when there’s also HDMI for video out, but it’s…
