Laptop not charging? Charger, port or battery?
Short answer
Start with the simplest things: a different wall socket, a firm connection at both ends of the charger, and a restart. Then look at the charger and the laptop's charging port for damage. If the charger is fine and the laptop still won't charge, the battery or the charging circuit is the likely cause, and that's a PC repair.
Before you start
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Steps
Try a different wall socket
Plug the charger straight into the wall, not an extension lead.
Check both ends of the charger
Many chargers have a cable between the brick and the plug as well as the cable to the laptop. Push every connection in firmly.
Look for a charging light
Most laptops and many chargers have a light that shows they're receiving power.
Restart the laptop
Sometimes the battery software needs a restart to start charging again.
Check the charger for damage
Look for kinks, splits or a bent connector. A damaged charger should be replaced, not taped up.
Check the charging port
Use a torch to look inside the laptop's charging socket for dust, lint or bent parts. Don't push anything metal into it.
Try another compatible charger, if you have one
For USB-C laptops, the charger needs enough wattage for your model. A phone charger may not be powerful enough.
If this happens, try this
If it charges with another charger
Your original charger is faulty. Replace it with one made for your laptop.
If it only charges at a certain angle
The charging port is probably worn or damaged.
If it runs on mains power but the battery stays at the same percentage
The battery may have failed. See our guide to signs your battery needs replacing.
If nothing happens at all, even with a known-good charger
The fault is inside the laptop.
Things to be careful about
Stop using a charger that's hot, buzzing, smells or has damaged insulation.
If the laptop case is bulging or the trackpad is lifting, stop charging it. That can be a swollen battery.
Avoid very cheap unbranded chargers. They can be unsafe and can damage the laptop.
Still need help?
If your laptop still won't charge, SmarterBox Limited's PC repair team can find out whether it's the port, the battery or the charging circuit. Tell us your laptop model and what you've tried, and we'll give you a price before you send anything.
Ask about a repairPublished by SmarterBox Limited (company no. 16160532), which runs SmarterBoxRepairs. This article is general information; prices and parts depend on your exact model, so ask for a price before sending anything.