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A CNA Lifestyle article explains that the tingling or buzzing sensation when touching a phone or laptop while it is charging is caused by a tiny leakage current from the charger, which can travel to the device’s metal casing and stimulate nerve endings in the skin. According to Lay Leong Loong, a senior lecturer from RP, this leakage usually comes from electromagnetic interference suppression components inside chargers, especially in two-pin plugs without grounding. Meanwhile, Mr Boey Kai Ming, manager of SP’s School of Electrical & Electronic Engineering said devices with metal casings or high-power adapters are more likely to produce the sensation, though the current involved is extremely small and generally safe. Experts advise using grounded three-pin chargers, certified accessories, and protective cases to minimise the effect.

[CNA]