MacBook Not Charging: 10 Ways to Fix It

Quick Fix

MacBook not charging? Reset the SMC: Shut down MacBook, hold Shift + Control + Option + Power for 10 seconds, release all, then press Power to start. For M1/M2 Macs, just shut down and wait 30 seconds, then restart. Also try a different charger and cable to rule out accessory issues.

Why Won’t MacBook Charge?

MacBooks stop charging due to faulty chargers, damaged cables, dirty ports, software glitches, battery health issues, or hardware failures. The SMC (System Management Controller) controls charging and sometimes needs reset.

Method 1: Check Charger and Cable

Accessories are often the problem.

1. Inspect cable for fraying or damage
2. Check both ends of the cable
3. Try a different cable if available
4. Try a different power adapter
5. Ensure using adequate wattage charger

Method 2: Clean the Charging Port

Debris blocks connection.

1. Shut down MacBook
2. Use flashlight to inspect port
3. Use wooden toothpick to remove lint
4. Blow gently to clear dust
5. Don’t use metal objects
6. Try charging again

Method 3: Reset SMC (Intel Macs)

SMC controls power management.

MacBook with T2 chip (2018+):

1. Shut down completely
2. Hold Shift + Control + Option on left side
3. While holding, press Power button
4. Hold all 4 keys for 10 seconds
5. Release all keys
6. Press Power to turn on

Older MacBooks:

1. Shut down
2. Hold Shift + Control + Option + Power for 10 seconds
3. Release and restart

Method 4: Restart Apple Silicon Macs

M1/M2 Macs don’t have SMC.

1. Shut down MacBook
2. Wait 30 seconds
3. Turn on
4. Or: Hold power button 10 seconds to force restart

Method 5: Check Battery Health

Degraded batteries may not charge properly.

1. Click Apple menu > System Settings
2. Click Battery
3. Click Battery Health
4. Check condition: Normal, Replace Soon, Replace Now, Service
5. Check maximum capacity percentage

Method 6: Disable Optimized Charging

Feature may pause charging at 80%.

1. System Settings > Battery
2. Click Battery Health
3. Disable Optimized Battery Charging
4. MacBook should charge to 100%

Method 7: Reset NVRAM/PRAM

Reset can fix charging display issues.

1. Shut down MacBook
2. Turn on and immediately hold Option + Command + P + R
3. Hold for 20 seconds
4. Release and let MacBook boot

Note: M1/M2 Macs do this automatically.

Method 8: Boot in Safe Mode

Test if software is causing issues.

Intel Mac:

1. Restart and hold Shift during boot
2. Release at login screen

Apple Silicon:

1. Shut down, hold power button until options appear
2. Select startup disk, hold Shift, click Continue in Safe Mode

Method 9: Check for Debris in MagSafe

MagSafe connectors collect metal debris.

1. Inspect MagSafe port on MacBook
2. Check MagSafe connector on cable
3. Clean with soft, dry cloth
4. Use isopropyl alcohol for stubborn grime
5. Ensure strong magnetic connection

Method 10: Apple Diagnostics

Test for hardware issues.

1. Disconnect all external devices
2. Shut down Mac
3. Turn on and immediately hold D
4. Follow on-screen diagnostics
5. Note any error codes for Apple Support

FAQ

Why does my MacBook say “Not Charging”?

This appears when using a low-wattage charger that can’t overcome current usage. Use the charger that came with your MacBook or one with equal/higher wattage.

Is it bad to leave MacBook plugged in all the time?

Modern MacBooks have Optimized Battery Charging to prevent damage. It’s fine to leave plugged in, but occasional discharge to 20% and recharge is good for battery health.

How long should a MacBook battery last?

Apple designs batteries to retain 80% capacity after 1000 charge cycles. Most users see 4-5 years of good battery life with normal use.