The short answer
Check the cable and adapter for damage and try a different wall outlet. Look for lint in the charging port and remove it gently. Leave the iPhone charging for 30 minutes, then force restart it. If it stops at 80%, that's often a charging setting, not a fault. If none of this works, contact Apple Support for service.
An iPhone that won’t charge is stressful, but the cause is often simple: a worn cable, a dusty port or a charging setting. Work through these checks in order before booking a repair.
1. Check the cable and adapter
Look for fraying, bent connectors or damage. Try a different cable and adapter that you know works. Apple advises not to use damaged accessories.
2. Try a different power source
Plug the adapter into a different wall outlet, or try charging from a computer’s USB port or a different charger to rule out the outlet or adapter.
3. Clean the charging port
Lint from pockets is a common culprit.
- Turn off your iPhone.
- Shine a light into the port.
- Gently remove any debris with a soft, non-metal tool like a wooden toothpick.
Don’t use liquids, compressed air at close range or metal objects.
4. Leave it charging for 30 minutes
If the battery is completely empty, it may take a while before the screen shows a charging symbol. Leave it connected for about half an hour.
5. Force restart
If the iPhone still doesn’t respond, force restart it while it’s connected to power:
- Press and quickly release volume up.
- Press and quickly release volume down.
- Press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
(These steps are for iPhone 8 and later. Older models use different button combinations; see Apple’s guide in the sources.)
6. If it stops at 80%
This is usually a setting, not a fault:
- Charge limit: iPhone 15 models and later can be set to stop at 80% or another limit.
- Optimized Battery Charging: iOS may pause at 80% and finish charging later, based on your routine.
Check Settings › Battery › Charging (or Battery Health & Charging) to change these.
7. If it charges slowly or gets hot
- Remove a thick case while charging.
- Avoid using demanding apps or games while charging.
- Make sure it’s not in direct sun or a hot car. iPhones may pause charging when they’re too warm.
8. Try wireless charging
If you have a MagSafe or Qi wireless charger, try it. If wireless works but the cable doesn’t, the port or cable is likely the problem.
When to get service
If your iPhone still won’t charge or turn on after these steps, contact Apple Support or an Apple Authorized Service Provider. Bring the cable and adapter you use.
Related guides
If your iPhone charges but the battery runs down fast, see why your iPhone battery drains fast. Before you take it in for repair, back up your iPhone.
The bottom line
Most charging problems come down to the cable, the adapter, lint in the port, or a deliberate 80% charge limit. Check those first, force restart, and get service only if nothing helps. While you’re at it, see how to make the battery last longer in our iPhone battery guide.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my iPhone stop charging at 80%?
On iPhone 15 models and later, you may have a charge limit set. On other models, Optimized Battery Charging can pause at 80% to reduce battery wear and finish charging before you usually unplug. Check Settings › Battery › Charging (or Battery Health & Charging).
Is it safe to clean the charging port?
Be gentle. Turn off the iPhone, shine a light into the port and remove lint carefully with a soft, non-metal tool such as a wooden toothpick. Never use liquids or metal objects.
Can I use any USB charger?
Use chargers and cables from reputable brands that meet safety standards. If your iPhone shows a message that an accessory isn't supported, try a different cable or adapter.
Why you can trust this guide
- Based on official sources. The steps here are checked against the 2 official sources listed below, such as the help pages of the companies involved.
- Checked and dated. Last checked on November 10, 2026. We update guides when software or advice changes.
- Independent. No company paid for or reviewed this guide. We don't sell products, and ads never influence our advice.
- Open to corrections. Spotted an error? Tell us and we'll fix it. Read how we research.
Sources
This guide is general information. Menus and features can change with software updates, and steps may differ on your device or version. Back up important data before making big changes. Read our disclaimer.
