Charging case not charging? Here's what to do

A charging case that no longer charges is frustrating. Without a working case you can't use your earbuds. The good news: this problem is often easy to fix. Here's how.

What is the problem?

The charging case is essential for your AirPods. When the light no longer comes on or the case doesn't respond to the charger, your AirPods can't be charged. This can be caused by dirt, a software issue or a defective battery.

Most common causes

Dirty Lightning or USB-C port

Lint and dust collect in the charging port and block the connection.

Defective charging cable or adapter

Test with a different cable and adapter to rule this out.

Dirty charging contacts inside

The metal contact points your AirPods rest on can get dirty.

Worn-out battery in the case

After 2-3 years of intensive use, the internal battery can be at the end of its life. A replacement charging case is then the solution.

Software issue

Sometimes the case gets into a faulty state and a reset helps.

Solutions you can try yourself

  1. Check the charging cable and adapter with another device.
  2. Clean the Lightning/USB-C port with a dry cotton swab.
  3. Clean the charging contacts inside the case with a soft, dry cloth.
  4. Try wireless charging if your case supports it.
  5. Leave the case on the charger for at least 1 hour.
  6. Reset your AirPods by holding the button down for 15 seconds.

Still not working? Then a new charging case is often the best solution.

When replacing is the smarter choice

If your case is more than two years old and the battery lasts less than an hour, the battery is probably worn out.

Physical damage to the charging port or internal components cannot be repaired yourself. A new case is then the most practical choice.

With us you'll find charging cases for all AirPods generations, including wireless and MagSafe variants.

Which charging case fits my AirPods?

Each AirPods generation needs a specific case. AirPods 1 and 2 share the same case, but AirPods 3 and Pro models each have a unique case.

Not sure which model you have? Check our AirPods identification guide.

Wireless charging as an alternative

If the Lightning port is defective but the case otherwise works, wireless charging can be a solution. This only works with cases that support wireless charging.

AirPods 2 (wireless case), AirPods 3, AirPods Pro and Pro 2 all support wireless charging. The standard AirPods 2 case without wireless charging cannot be upgraded.

Frequently asked questions

Can I buy a charging case separately?

Yes, you can buy a separate charging case from us for all AirPods generations. Your existing AirPods work with a new case right away.

Will my AirPod work in a new case?

Yes, AirPods pair automatically with a new case of the same generation. You don't need to set anything up again.

How do I know if my case supports wireless charging?

Cases with wireless charging have an LED light on the outside. Standard cases only have the light on the inside.

Can I use an AirPods Pro case for AirPods 2?

No, each generation has a specific case. AirPods only fit in cases of the same generation.

How long does a charging case battery last?

On average 2-4 years with daily use. After that, the capacity decreases and the case charges fully less often.

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