AirPods are among the most reliable wireless earbuds you can buy and a must-have for Apple devices. But, as with all tech, AirPods aren’t without their occasional issues. It’s the worst thing to wear a pair that’s not charged. Here’s what you can do when you find that your AirPods or AirPod case not charging.
This guide applies to all AirPods and AirPods Pro models, not AirPods Max headphones.
Common Reasons Your AirPod Case Not Charging
Before trying any fixes, here are the most common causes why my AirPods aren’t charging:
- Dust or dirt in the charging port
- Faulty charging cable or adapter
- Software glitches
- Dead or damaged battery
- Firmware issues
- Moisture inside the charging port
- Using non-Apple chargers or low-quality cables
Also read: Why Do My AirPods Keep Disconnecting? (2025 Fix Guide)
How Can I Solve the AirPod Case Not Charging?
AirPods cases are designed as the only method to charge them, so when one doesn’t charge, this becomes an immediate and significant concern. Check the battery level using these steps before washing the outside, inside, and charging ports of your case to remove dust or debris that may cause charging problems. Updating firmware or resetting AirPods might help, but other steps may be needed if your AirPod case not charging.
Clean the Charging Port
AirPods’ charging ports often accumulate dust, lint, or debris that obstructs proper power flow, making charging inconvenient for users and the AirPod case not charging properly. Use a dry toothbrush or soft brush to clear the port without damaging it.
Avoid inserting metal objects. After cleaning the charger and plugging it back in, check the LED light to verify that charging has started. This simple solution should help resolve AirPod case not charging problems.
Try a Different Cable & Adapter
AirPods charging issues often result from damaged cables or adapters that have lost their charge, so try charging with another Lightning cable, USB adapter, or USB-C to Lightning cable. Low-quality third-party chargers may cause the device to reject unstable power. An original or certified charger often restores normal charging within seconds.
Reset the AirPods Case
Resetting can fix software or firmware bugs inside an AirPods case that prevent charging. Simply place AirPods inside their case, open the lid, and press and hold the setup button for 15 seconds. The LED should flash amber, then white, after the reset has taken effect. Then reconnect the charger to check the charging status.
Check the Charging Status LED
Your AirPods case features an LED light to help diagnose charging problems. A green light indicates a fully charged battery, and an amber light indicates active charging. No light indicates power isn’t reaching it. And no LED means power hasn’t been due to cable issues, blocked ports, or low battery level. Continue troubleshooting as appropriate.
Ensure Proper Cable Alignment
Improper cable alignment may prevent the AirPod case not charging. To make sure the Lightning connector fits securely and is fully pushed in until clicking is heard. Attempt charging either with the lid open or no AirPods inside, as loose connections or slightly misaligned cables often hinder power flow, resulting in intermittent charging sessions.
Use Wireless Charging
Using wireless charging pads with AirPods and AirPods Pro cases can work to charge them wirelessly. However, compatibility issues could prevent that. Make sure you are using either a MagSafe wireless charger, Qi-certified chargers, and an Apple Watch charging mat; when positioning an AirPods case correctly, its status indicator should be facing you. Once in place, the status light should illuminate for several minutes after the case is placed on the pad.
Also read: How to Charge Apple Watch Without Charger: 5 Easy and Safe Methods
Update iPhone & AirPods Firmware
Firmware or iOS bugs may interfere with charging or battery detection on AirPods. To update, leave them in their case connected to your iPhone and plugged into an appropriate charger. Keeping both devices close by is recommended for optimal results. Firmware updates install automatically in the background and often fix charging glitches instantly.
Check Battery Health
After 2–3 years, AirPods cases often suffer battery degradation. Signs include rapid draining, partial charging, or charging only when pressed tightly. If your case shows these symptoms, the internal battery is likely worn out and may require replacement or repair from Apple Support.
Get a replacement AirPods case
If none of the methods above AirPod case not charging, your only recourse will be to contact Apple customer support and request a new AirPod case. Good news, though switching out to new models shouldn’t take more than 24 hours. The downside is that Apple could charge you for the replacement. Based on your model could have to shell out between $59-$99 to purchase an updated charging case.
FAQs: AirPod Case Not Charging
How do I know if my AirPod case is charging?
When you plug it in, the LED should show amber for charging and green when fully charged. If the light does not turn on at all, the case may not be receiving power.
Can I charge AirPods without the case?
Yes. If your model supports wireless charging, it may still charge even if the Lightning port is damaged.
Can I use a non-Apple charger for my AirPod case?
Yes, but only if it’s certified. Low-quality or uncertified chargers may provide unstable power and cause charging failures. Apple or MFi-certified cables are safest.
How long does it take to charge an AirPods case?
An AirPods case charges fully in about 2 hours with a cable. Wireless charging takes 3–4 hours. AirPods inside the case reach 100% in 20–30 minutes.
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