Comparisons
USB-C PD 3.0 vs PD 3.1: What Changed
PD 3.1 adds an Extended Power Range up to 240W above the 100W of standard PD.
Written by: LVSUN Editorial TeamTechnically reviewed by: LVSUN Editorial TeamLast reviewed: July 17, 2026
Key takeaways
- PD 3.0 SPR = up to 100W; PD 3.1 EPR = up to 240W
- EPR requires a 240W-rated cable and EPR support end-to-end
The headline change
USB-IF Power Delivery 3.0 tops out at 100W in Standard Power Range (20V at 5A). PD 3.1 adds an Extended Power Range (EPR) with new fixed voltages up to 48V, enabling up to 240W.
What it means in practice
- Up to 100W: covered by standard PD (SPR)
- Above 100W to 240W: requires PD 3.1 EPR on the source, device, and cable
- EPR needs a certified EPR (240W-rated) cable — a standard cable will not carry EPR power
Both remain USB-C; EPR is additive. For laptop and multi-device charging, confirm whether your devices need only SPR (≤100W) or genuinely require EPR.
PD power tiers
Frequently asked questions
Do I need PD 3.1?
Only if a device requires more than 100W; most laptops/tablets charge within SPR.
Can any USB-C cable do 240W?
No — EPR requires a certified 240W-rated cable.