How to Fix “Plugged In, Not Charging” on Windows 10/11

This guide will walk you through multiple steps to diagnose and fix the “Plugged In, Not Charging” issue on laptops running Windows 10 or 11. Whether you are using a device from Dell, HP, Acer, Asus, Toshiba, Lenovo, or Samsung, these troubleshooting steps will help restore your laptop’s battery functionality. By following this tutorial, you’ll learn how to check power settings, update drivers, and more.

Step 1: Check Power Connection

Before diving into software fixes, ensure your laptop is properly connected to power. Follow these steps:

Inspect the power cable and adapter for any visible damage.
Make sure the power connector is securely plugged into both the wall outlet and your laptop.
If possible, try using a different outlet to rule out issues with the current one.

Step 2: Review Battery Health

Next, check your battery’s health status. This can help determine if the battery is operational.

Open Windows Settings by pressing Win + I.
Navigate to System -> About.
Scroll to find the battery information under “Device specifications.”
Look for any error messages or warnings related to the battery’s health.

Step 3: Adjust Power Settings

Sometimes, power settings can prevent the battery from charging effectively. Here’s how to adjust them:

Go to Control Panel.
Select Hardware and Sound -> Power Options.
Choose the Change plan settings next to your selected power plan.
Click on Change advanced power settings.
Expand the Battery section and ensure that the settings for “Critical battery action” and “Low battery level” are properly set.

Step 4: Update Battery Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers can lead to charging issues. To update your battery drivers:

Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
Locate the Batteries section and expand it.
Right-click on Microsoft ACPI-Compliant Control Method Battery, and select Update driver.
Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
Follow any on-screen instructions to complete the update.

Step 5: Perform a Power Reset

A power reset can often resolve hardware-related issues. To perform a power reset:

Shut down your laptop completely.
Unplug the power adapter.
Remove the battery (if applicable).
Press and hold the power button for 15 seconds.
Reconnect the battery and power adapter, then start the laptop again.

Step 6: Check for Windows Updates

Installing the latest Windows updates can also resolve software issues that might be affecting charging:

Go to Settings -> Update & Security -> Windows Update.
Click on Check for updates to install any pending updates.

Step 7: Test with a Different Power Adapter

If none of the above steps fix the issue, try using a different power adapter if available. This can help determine if your original charger is defective.

Extra Tips & Common Issues

Here are some additional tips and potential issues you might encounter:

Ensure you are using the correct power adapter specific to your laptop model.
Check for any visible obstruction in the charging port that could prevent a secure connection.
If the battery is removable, test with a different battery to see if the issue persists.

Common mistakes to avoid include ignoring system update notifications and overcrowding the power port with debris.

Following the above steps should help resolve your charging issue. Consistent maintenance of your device can prevent similar problems in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my laptop plugged in but not charging?

This can be due to various reasons, including a faulty power supply, battery health issues, or software misconfigurations.

How can I tell if my battery needs replacing?

If your laptop doesn’t hold a charge or discharges quickly while unplugged, it may indicate that the battery needs replacement.

What should I do if my laptop won’t recognize the charger?

First, check the charger and port for any damage. If everything looks fine, update your drivers and check the power settings as outlined in this guide.