Showerthought: I spent $80 on a 'universal' power supply tester that was basically junk.

Bought it online for a quick bench check on some laptop bricks. The voltage readings were all over the place, like 2 volts off on a 19v line. Tried it on three known-good adapters, same junk results. Ended up just using my old multimeter like always. Anyone know a reliable brand for these, or are they all a waste of cash?

4 comments

4 Comments

josephadams2mo ago

Universal" ones are always junk, learned that the hard way.

dakota4152mo ago

Tbh, can confirm.

wade87124d ago

Made the mistake of buying the cheapest universal one I could find at a gas station once. Honestly it lasted maybe two uses before the cord started sparking like a bad firework. Ngl that thing nearly fried my laptop and I learned my lesson real quick. Now I just stick with the brand name ones even if they cost triple the price. Tbh my wallet hates me for it but at least my devices aren't catching on fire anymore.

lily1672mo ago

Actually have to disagree with you there, @dakota415. Found a universal one years ago that still works perfectly. It really depends on the brand, some are built way better than others. Just got lucky with that first purchase I guess. Throwing out all universal ones seems like missing out on some good options. The cheap ones are always junk, but a decent mid-priced one can last forever.