Symptoms
- Plugging in shows no charging icon or indicator
- Battery percentage doesn't move even after hours plugged in
- Cable feels loose in the port
Likely causes
- CommonCable or wall adapter not rated for the tabletTablets often need higher-wattage chargers than phones; an underpowered charger can fail to charge at all.
- CommonDebris in the charging portLint blocks the pins from making contact.
- CommonWorn or damaged cableFrayed or bent cables are a frequent cause mistaken for a tablet fault.
What to do
- Try the tablet's original charger and cable plugged directly into a wall outlet, not a computer USB port.
- Inspect the port with a flashlight for lint or debris and clean gently with a wooden toothpick or compressed air.
- Test a different known-good cable and adapter if you have one, ideally the tablet's rated wattage.
- Wiggle the cable gently while plugged in to check for a loose connection pointing to port damage.
- Force restart the tablet in case a software issue is blocking the charging indicator from showing.
- If nothing charges it after trying another cable and cleaning, the port or battery likely needs professional repair.
Tools and parts
- Flashlight
- Wooden toothpick
- Compressed air
- Known-good charger and cable
Charging cable and adapterSearch: “tablet charger and cable for your model”
Charging port flex cableSearch: “charging port replacement for your model”
When to call a pro
If a known-good charger and a clean port still don't charge it, a repair shop can test the battery and port hardware.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.