Introduction

One common issue you may encounter with a Windows 10 laptop is when it’s plugged in but not charging. Many people experience this frustrating problem and it can be caused by multiple factors. In this article, we will guide you through some simple steps to help you troubleshoot and fix the issue.

1. Check your charger and laptop connection

Before diving into technical fixes, ensure that your laptop charger is firmly connected to both the power outlet and your laptop’s charging port. Sometimes, a loose connection might be the cause of the problem.

2. Troubleshoot your power cables and AC adapter

Inspect your laptop’s power cable and AC adapter for any signs of physical damage or wear. If there is any visible damage, consider replacing it. Additionally, try plugging it into a different power outlet or using a different charger if you have one available to rule out any issues with malfunctioning cables or adapters.

3. Update your device drivers

Outdated or corrupted device drivers might be causing the charging issue on your Windows 10 laptop. To update them:

a) Right-click on the Start button and select “Device Manager.”

b) Expand the “Batteries” section.

c) Right-click on each item listed under Batteries and select “Update driver.”

d) Choose “Search automatically for updated driver software” and follow the prompts.

e) Restart your laptop after updating all battery-related drivers.

4. Run Windows 10 battery troubleshooter

Windows 10 has a built-in battery troubleshooter that can detect and fix charging issues:

a) Press the Windows key + I to open Settings.

b) Navigate to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.

c) Click on “Power” and then select “Run the troubleshooter.”

d) Follow the on-screen instructions and apply any suggested fixes.

e) Restart your laptop to see if the charging issue is resolved.

5. Remove and reinsert the laptop battery (if applicable)

For laptops with removable batteries, power down your device and disconnect the charger. Carefully remove the battery and reinsert it after a couple of minutes, ensuring that it’s securely in place. Reconnect the charger and check if your laptop is now charging.

6. Check your power settings

Configure Windows 10 power settings to ensure optimal battery performance by following these steps:

a) Press the Windows key + I to open Settings.

b) Go to System > Power & sleep > Additional power settings.

c) Choose “Change plan settings” next to your current power plan.

d) Click “Restore default settings for this plan” and then confirm by selecting “Yes.”

e) Restart your laptop and check if the charging issue is resolved.

Conclusion

If you’ve followed all the steps above but your laptop still isn’t charging, there might be a hardware issue, such as a faulty battery or motherboard. In this case, consult with a professional technician or contact your device’s manufacturer for further assistance. Remember that regular maintenance and keeping your laptop’s software up-to-date can significantly reduce the occurrence of such problems in the future.