Headphones & earbuds

Earbuds or case won't charge

This is usually a dirty charging contact, a bad cable, or a battery that needs a longer initial charge rather than a dead unit. Cleaning the contacts and trying a different cable fixes most cases.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
10–60 minutes
DIY cost
$0–$20
Pro cost
$20–$50

Symptoms

  • Case light doesn't turn on when plugged in
  • Earbuds show as not charging even when seated in the case
  • Case charges but earbuds inside don't
  • Battery drains extremely fast even after a full charge

Likely causes

  • CommonDirty or corroded charging contacts on the earbuds or caseEarwax, lint, or oxidation on the small metal contacts blocks the electrical connection.
  • CommonFaulty charging cable or power adapterA damaged cable is one of the most common reasons a case appears completely dead.
  • CommonEarbuds not seated correctly in the caseMagnets should pull them into place, but debris or a warped earbud can prevent proper contact.
  • PossibleCase's internal battery depleted or degradedThe case itself has a battery that can wear out over time, especially with daily use over a couple of years.
  • Less commonEarbud's internal battery failedIndividual earbud batteries can fail independently of the case.

What to do

  1. Wipe the charging contacts on both earbuds and inside the case with a dry cotton swab or soft cloth.
  2. Try a different charging cable and power adapter, ideally the original or a certified replacement.
  3. Remove and reseat the earbuds in the case, making sure you feel or hear them click/magnetically snap into place.
  4. Plug the case into a wall outlet rather than a computer USB port for a more reliable charge current.
  5. Let the case charge for at least an hour before checking for any light or charging indicator.
  6. Check the case's own battery level in the companion app if available, since a dead case can't charge the earbuds regardless of cable.
  7. Test each earbud individually in the case to see if only one side has a charging problem.

Tools and parts

  • Cotton swabs
  • Soft dry cloth
Charging cableSearch: “earbuds case usb charging cable”
Replacement charging caseSearch: “replacement earbuds charging case”

When to call a pro

If neither earbud nor the case shows any sign of charging after cleaning contacts and trying a new cable, the case's internal battery or charging circuit has likely failed and needs replacement.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.