How to Fix Laptop Not Charging When Plugged In on Windows 10 or 11 – Troubleshooting Guide

Are you facing the frustrating issue of your laptop not charging even though the charger is plugged in? This is a common problem that many Windows 10 and 11 users encounter. You might see the battery icon showing “Plugged in, not charging,” or the laptop may not recognize the charger at all. Before you panic and rush to buy a new charger or battery, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the issue.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the most common causes of laptop charging problems on Windows 10 and 11 and provide detailed solutions to help you get your device back to normal. Let’s dive in!

1. Why Is My Laptop Not Charging When Plugged In?

There are several reasons why your laptop might not be charging even when the charger is connected:
• Faulty Charging Cable or Adapter: The most common reason is a damaged charging cable or adapter.
• Loose or Damaged Charging Port: If the charging port is loose or damaged, it may not establish a proper connection.
• Battery Driver Issues: Outdated or corrupted battery drivers can prevent proper charging.
• Power Settings and Software Glitches: Sometimes, software bugs or incorrect power settings cause charging issues.
• Hardware Problems: In some cases, the battery itself or the motherboard could be faulty.
Understanding the root cause will help you choose the most effective solution. Let’s explore the troubleshooting steps in detail.

2. Preliminary Checks

Before diving into more technical solutions, start with these basic checks:
1) Check the Power Source
Ensure that the power outlet is working by plugging in another device, such as a phone charger or a lamp. If the outlet is not supplying power, try a different one.
2) Inspect the Charging Cable and Adapter
Look for visible damage such as frayed wires, bent pins, or burnt marks. If you see any damage, the adapter might be faulty and need replacement. Also, make sure the adapter is compatible with your laptop model.
3) Verify the Charging Port
Inspect the charging port on your laptop for dust, debris, or damage. Clean the port gently using a dry brush or a can of compressed air. If the port feels loose or wobbly, it might be damaged internally, requiring professional repair.
4) Restart Your Laptop
Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary software glitches. Disconnect the charger, turn off the laptop, and wait for a few seconds before turning it back on. Then, reconnect the charger to see if it starts charging.
If these preliminary checks don’t solve the problem, proceed to the more advanced troubleshooting methods below.

3. Troubleshooting Software and Driver Issues

1) Check Battery and Power Settings
Windows 10 and 11 have built-in power management settings that could be affecting the charging process.
• Go to Settings > System > Power & Sleep.
• Click on Additional power settings.
• Make sure the selected power plan is balanced or set to high performance.
• Avoid using battery saver mode when charging, as it may restrict charging functions.
2) Update or Reinstall Battery Drivers
Outdated or corrupted battery drivers can cause charging issues. To update the drivers:
• Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.
• Expand the Batteries section.
• Right-click on Microsoft AC Adapter and Microsoft ACPI-Compliant Control Method Battery, and select Update driver.
• Restart your laptop and check if it charges.
If updating doesn’t work, try reinstalling the drivers:
• In Device Manager, right-click the same components and select Uninstall device.
• Shut down the laptop, disconnect the charger, and remove the battery if possible.
• Reconnect everything and start the laptop. Windows will automatically reinstall the drivers.
3) Run the Windows Power Troubleshooter
Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix power-related issues.
• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
• Click on Additional troubleshooters and select Power.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
This can resolve minor software glitches affecting charging.

4. Perform a Power Reset

A power reset can help resolve hardware glitches that may be preventing your laptop from charging.
• Turn off your laptop and unplug the charger.
• If your laptop has a removable battery, take it out.
• Press and hold the power button for 30 seconds to drain residual power.
• Reinsert the battery, connect the charger, and turn on the laptop.
This method clears any temporary power issues and can often fix the charging problem.

5. Check for BIOS or Firmware Updates

Outdated BIOS or firmware can sometimes cause compatibility issues with charging. To update the BIOS:
• Visit your laptop manufacturer’s website and search for the latest BIOS update for your model.
• Follow the instructions carefully, as improper BIOS updates can harm your device.
Ensure your laptop is plugged in during the update process to avoid power interruption.

6. Hardware Checks and Solutions

1) Test with Another Charger
Borrow a compatible charger from a friend or family member to see if your charger is faulty. If the laptop charges with a different adapter, it’s time to replace your charger.
2) Inspect the Battery
• If your laptop has a removable battery, check for swelling or visible damage.
• Replace the battery if it’s old or damaged.
• For built-in batteries, visit an authorized service center for inspection.
3) Contact Professional Support
If you’ve tried all the steps and the laptop still won’t charge, it could be due to a hardware issue such as a damaged charging port or motherboard failure. In this case, seek help from a certified technician.

7. Preventing Future Charging Issues

To avoid similar problems in the future, consider the following tips:
• Use a surge protector to protect your laptop from power surges.
• Avoid using the laptop on soft surfaces that can block the vents and cause overheating.
• Regularly clean the charging port and adapter to prevent dust buildup.
• Unplug the charger when the battery is fully charged to prevent overcharging.

8. Conclusion – Resolve Laptop Charging Problems Easily

A laptop that won’t charge when plugged in can be frustrating, but it doesn’t always mean expensive repairs or replacements. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can identify the root cause and apply the appropriate fix.

From checking the power source and inspecting the adapter to updating drivers and performing a power reset, these methods cover all possible reasons for charging issues on Windows 10 and 11 laptops.
If all else fails, don’t hesitate to seek professional help to diagnose and repair any underlying hardware problems. With the right approach, you can get your laptop charging again and extend the life of your device.
This comprehensive guide provides all the necessary steps to troubleshoot and fix charging issues on Windows 10 and 11 laptops. If you need any edits or additional sections, let me know!