USB PD EPR and SPR: Unraveling the Differences

By Qikun Wu, Marketing Manager – Charging Solution Products

In the rapidly evolving world of USB power delivery (PD) technology, understanding the differences between USB PD Standard Power Range (SPR) and Extended Power Range (EPR) is critical to making an informed decision during the design process.

 
Functional Differences

• Power Limits:
  • SPR: The SPR is based on the USB PD3.0 standard with a maximum power output of 100W. Available fixed voltage levels are 5V, 9V, 15V, and 20V, with current ratings of 3A or 5A. For example, at 20V, 5A, the upper power limit of 100W can be reached.
  • EPR: The latest USB PD3.1 standard extends the maximum power output from 100W to 240W. Not only does EPR cover all voltage-current combinations of SPR, it also adds three new fixed voltage levels: 28V, 36V, and 48V, all with a maximum current of 5A. This means that it is capable of handling higher power applications.
     

• Voltage Adjustability
  • SPR: In SPR mode, a programmable power supply (PPS) allows voltage regulation in small steps (typically 20mV steps) and is primarily used to optimize battery charging below 100W. 

• • EPR: In addition to the PPS function below 100W, the EPR also has an adjustable voltage supply (AVS). AVS enables the receiver device to perform fine voltage regulation in 100mV steps between 15V and 48V. This helps improve the performance and thermal efficiency of high-power equipment.
     

Application Differences

• SPR Applications: SPR is ideal for a wide range of everyday consumer electronics, including smartphones, tablets, laptops with moderate power requirements (up to 100W), and many small to medium-sized portable devices. For example, most standard laptops can be charged efficiently within the 100W power limit of the SPR.

• EPR Applications: Designed for high-power applications, EPR can power large laptops with higher-performance components, industrial equipment, some server-related equipment, and high-power power tools. For example, it can charge high-end gaming laptops faster due to its higher power capabilities, or drive high-power industrial drills.
   

Products Supporting EPR

Diodes Incorporated's (Diodes) USB PD controller products, listed in the table below, are packed with advanced features and support EPR functionality (up to 28V). These products take full advantage of the power delivery capabilities of the USB PD EPR, making them ideal for powering devices that require higher power through USB Type-C^® (USB-C^®) connectors.

Automotive-compliant - AEC qualified, manufactured in sites certified to IATF 16949 and supporting PPAP documentation.

The Diodes logo is a registered trademark of Diodes Incorporated in the United States and other countries.

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

© 2025 Diodes Incorporated. All Rights Reserved.