MacBook Not Charging? 10 Ways to Fix

Quick Fix

MacBook not charging? Reset the SMC: shut down MacBook, hold Shift+Control+Option+Power for 10 seconds, release and turn on. Try different outlet and cable. Check MagSafe/USB-C port for debris. Ensure you’re using correct wattage charger for your model.

Why Won’t MacBook Charge?

MacBook charging issues come from SMC glitches, faulty cables or adapters, dirty charging ports, battery health problems, or using underpowered chargers. The charging indicator should glow when connected properly.

Method 1: Check Cable and Adapter

Cable may be damaged.

1. Inspect cable for fraying or damage
2. Check both ends of cable
3. Try different cable if available
4. Test adapter with another device
5. Borrow known-working charger to test

Method 2: Clean Charging Port

Debris blocks connection.

1. Shut down MacBook
2. Use flashlight to inspect port
3. Use wooden toothpick gently
4. Or compressed air (short bursts)
5. Remove dust and lint

Method 3: Reset SMC

SMC controls charging.

1. Shut down MacBook
2. Hold Shift+Control+Option+Power
3. Hold for 10 seconds
4. Release all keys
5. Press Power to turn on

Method 4: Reset SMC (M1/M2 Macs)

Apple Silicon uses different reset.

1. Shut down MacBook
2. Wait 30 seconds
3. Press and hold Power for 10 seconds
4. Release and wait
5. Press Power normally to start

Method 5: Try Different Outlet

Outlet may be faulty.

1. Unplug from current outlet
2. Try different wall outlet
3. Avoid power strips temporarily
4. Test outlet with other device
5. Check if outlet has power

Method 6: Check Charger Wattage

Underpowered charger won’t work.

1. MacBook Air needs 30W minimum
2. MacBook Pro 13″ needs 61W
3. MacBook Pro 14″/16″ needs 96W+
4. Check adapter wattage
5. Use correct or higher wattage

Method 7: Check Battery Health

Old battery may not charge.

1. Click Apple menu > System Settings
2. Go to Battery
3. Check Battery Health
4. If “Service Recommended” appears
5. Battery may need replacement

Method 8: Check for Software Issues

Software can affect charging.

1. Update to latest macOS
2. Apple menu > System Settings > General > Software Update
3. Install any available updates
4. Restart after updating
5. Test charging

Method 9: Boot in Safe Mode

Safe Mode isolates issues.

1. Shut down MacBook
2. Turn on and hold Shift
3. Release when login appears
4. Check if charges in Safe Mode
5. Third-party software may be issue

Method 10: Check MagSafe Light

Light indicates charging status.

1. Amber/Orange = charging
2. Green = fully charged
3. No light = no connection
4. Flickering = poor connection
5. Clean connector if no light

FAQ

Why does MacBook say “Not Charging”?

“Not Charging” appears when using underpowered adapter or when battery optimization pauses charging. MacBook may pause at 80% to preserve battery health. Check System Settings > Battery > Battery Health for optimization settings.

Can I use any USB-C charger for MacBook?

You can use any USB-C charger but wattage matters. Lower wattage charges slowly or not at all under load. For reliable charging, use charger that meets or exceeds your MacBook’s requirements.

How much does MacBook battery replacement cost?

Apple charges $129-199 for battery replacement depending on model. Third-party repair shops may charge less. AppleCare+ covers batteries below 80% health. Check battery health before paying for replacement.