It’s easy to get frustrated when you want to listen to music with your AirPods but are experiencing some charging errors, such as your case not charging, even when your AirPods are.
These nifty little pods should work, after all. Fortunately for you, there are several easy fixes for this. And I’ve got you covered on this.
Here’s a summary on how to fix an AirPods case that isn’t charging but the AirPods are:
- Check the connections.
- Use a different cable and charger.
- Skip the extension cord.
- Remove the extra accessories.
- Clean the AirPods case charging port.
- Update your AirPods firmware.
- Reset your AirPods.
- Have your AirPods professionally fixed.
- Buy a replacement case.
Now, let’s go through these steps together and figure out why your AirPod case isn’t charging – I am recommending you to try the fixes recommended below in the order I recommend them, as those towards the top are the most common causes.
1. Check the Connections
Before you panic, make sure all the connections are well-connected.
Check the cable to see if it’s firmly plugged into the charger port. Likewise, make sure you have plugged the charger into a functional electrical outlet.
If you’re using a USB-compatible charger, make sure the cable is plugged firmly into the charger and firmly connect the charger to the power outlet.
Talking about cables, make sure to check out my previous article on how to connect your phone to TV wirelessly.
2. Use a Different Cable and Charger
More often than not, the culprit is either a damaged cable or charger. If either of these two is faulty, the case won’t charge, even if your AirPods will.
Connect your cable to a different power source, such as your laptop, to check. If you have another device with which you can use the charging cable, see if that device charges.
You can also try to use a different cable and see if anything changes when you plug it in.
If the laptop hack works, it’s safe to say that it’s the charger with the problem.
The same goes with using a different cable. If the new or replacement one works, you should stop using your old one.
3. Skip the Extension Cord
Even if your charger is affixed firmly on an extension cord, it won’t charge if the extension isn’t working.
Just like checking your AirPods’ connections, you need to ensure that the extension cord is connected correctly.
If it is, you need to check the wire to see if it’s still good.
One way to do so is to plug in other items you know are working, such as a lamp or a fan. If they haven’t turned on, it’s a sign for you to ditch your extension cord.
Better yet, just plug your charging AirPods into a direct electrical outlet. And while it’s charging, why not check out my previous article on how to record a WhatsApp call?
4. Remove the Extra Accessories
If you have a decorative cover (or any other accessory) on your AirPods case, you should consider removing it.
Some cheap covers can be so thick that they prevent the cable from affixing correctly to the port.
If this is the case, you may want to ditch the cover altogether. Another alternative is to replace your cover with a thinner, less bulky one that doesn’t obstruct the charging cable.
5. Clean the AirPods Case Charging Port
If your cable and charger are working just fine, then you should set your sights on the case’s charging port. It’s the little opening located at the bottom.
Check the port to see if it’s filled with dirt. The debris may be preventing the case from charging correctly.
According to the Official Apple website, the best way to clean the port is with a clean, dry soft-bristled brush.
I always use a soft kid’s toothbrush for this purpose, but you can also use a cotton swab if you are gentle and fluff up the cotton a bit first.
Avoid using sharp, abrasive materials because they may damage the port.
6. Update Your AirPods Firmware
Apple releases patches every so often. So, if your AirPods’ firmware is outdated, there’s a great chance that the case won’t charge as it should.
The good news is it’s relatively easy to update your firmware. Here’s how to do so:
- Go to the Bluetooth settings of your iPhone or iPad.
- Connect your AirPods.
- Place your AirPods (in their case) next to your iPhone or iPad.
To check if your AirPods have an update, click on the ‘About’ option under Bluetooth settings. It’s best to check this portion right before you update the firmware, so you can check it after if the update has been successful.
Remember: your AirPods won’t update if they’re connected to an Android device. You’ll need an Apple device every time you do this procedure.
7. Reset Your AirPods
If your AirPods case is still not charging despite the update, then you should consider resetting them.
The steps are as follows:
- Place your AirPods in the case and close the lid.
- Wait for 30 seconds before opening the case lid.
- Go to your Apple device’s Bluetooth settings.
- Tap on the ‘More Info’ button.
- Tap ‘Forget Device’ and confirm.
- While the top is still open, press and hold the button for 15 seconds (this is located on the case’s back.)
- Wait for the light to flash into amber – then white.
- Reconnect your AirPods by placing them near your Apple device.
- Follow the steps listed on your device to reconnect.
Restarting the AirPods is an excellent way to troubleshoot any other issues you might have with them, so knowing how to do this is always a good idea.
8. Have Your AirPods Professionally Fixed
If you have exhausted all the steps above – to no avail – then it’s a sign for you to bring your AirPods to a nearby Apple Store.
You have the option of carrying it to the store personally, although you can also mail it into an Apple store as well.
Depending on the problem, it may take the professionals a week to fix your charging case.
If the one-year limited warranty or AppleCare+ covers your AirPods, repair or replacements may be free of charge.
In some cases, the fee may be lower than out-of-warranty products.
For example, the repair fee for cases is usually only about $30 for AppleCare+ customers. Those without AppleCare+ may have to pay fees ranging from $59 to $89.
Remember: mail-in repairs come with an additional $6.95 shipping fee, so it’s usually best to make the trip to the store yourself if you can.
If you’re on a budget, you can always consider the low-price Chuwi brand.
9. Buy a Replacement Case
Maybe the problem isn’t fixable, or you don’t have the patience to wait for a week. If that’s the case, your best option is to buy a replacement case: check prices here (affiliate link)
An AirPods charging case will cost you around $60, while a wireless or MagSafe charging case will set you back at approximately $80.
As for the wireless or MagSafe charging case for AirPods Pro, you’ll have to shell out about $100 each.
Key Takeaways
If your AirPods case isn’t charging – but your earbuds are – you have the option to do these things:
- Check the connections
- Use a different cable/charger
- Skip the extension cord
- Remove the extra accessories
- Clean the case charging port
- Update the firmware
- Reset your Airpods
If these don’t solve your problems, you may need to repair or replace your AirPods case.