iPhone Not Charging? Try These Fixes

Common causes

• A loose connection or power source that is not working
• A damaged or incompatible cable or adapter
• Debris in the charging port
• A deeply discharged battery
• A charging limit or temperature pause when charging stops around 80%
• A hardware problem that needs service

Step-by-Step Solutions

Start with the first step and check whether your iPhone charges after each one.

1. 1

   Step 1: Check the power source and connections

   Use a working wall outlet, cable and adapter, and make sure every connection is firm.

   Plug into a wall outlet and make sure the cable, adapter, and outlet connections are firm. If nothing happens, try another outlet or a known-working charger.

   • Inspect the cable and adapter for visible damage, such as breaks or bent prongs.
   • Do not keep using damaged charging accessories.
2. 2

   Step 2: Look at the charging port

   Debris in the port can stop the cable from connecting properly.

   Disconnect the cable and check the port at the bottom of the iPhone for obvious debris. Apple recommends removing debris before reconnecting the cable firmly.

   Good to know

   If the port looks damaged, or debris is difficult to remove safely, stop and ask Apple or a qualified repair provider for help. Avoid forcing anything into the port.

3. 3

   Step 3: Give it time to charge

   A deeply discharged battery can take a while to respond. Wait at least 30 minutes.

   Leave the iPhone connected to a working power source for at least 30 minutes. A very low battery may not respond immediately. Check for a charging indicator, then try turning it on normally.

4. 4

   Step 4: Force restart if it still won’t turn on

   A force restart can help when the iPhone is charging but the screen stays black.

   Keep the iPhone connected to power. On iPhone 8 or later, which includes every iPhone with Face ID and iPhone SE (2nd generation or later):

   • Press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
   • Press and quickly release the Volume Down button.
   • Press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.

   Good to know

   After the force restart, Apple advises leaving it connected to power for another 30 minutes if needed. Older models use different buttons: on iPhone 7 or 7 Plus, hold the Side button and Volume Down together until the Apple logo appears; on iPhone 6s or earlier, or iPhone SE (1st generation), hold the Home button and the Side or Top button together until the Apple logo appears.

5. 5

   Step 5: If charging stops around 80%

   This is often expected: a charging limit or heat can pause charging.

   This can be expected behavior. On supported iPhones, Optimized Battery Charging or a charge limit can delay or stop charging at 80%. Charging can also pause when the device gets too warm. Move the iPhone and charger to a cooler location and let them cool down.

   Good to know

   Charging behavior and available settings vary by iPhone model and iOS version. Check Apple’s charging guide below before changing a setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related guides

• Screen & DisplayiPhone Black Screen? How to Get It Working AgainWhat to do when your iPhone screen is black or your iPhone won’t turn on: charge it, force restart it, check Screen Curtain, and know when the display needs service.