How to Fix One AirPod Not Charging (All Models: AirPods, Pro, Pro 2)

If one of your AirPods isn’t charging — whether it’s the left or right one — don’t worry. This is a common issue across all AirPods models, including AirPods 1st/2nd/3rd Gen, AirPods Pro, and Pro 2. Here’s a simple guide to troubleshoot and fix the problem on your own.

1. Check the Battery Level of the Charging Case

Your AirPods won’t charge if the charging case itself is out of power.

How to check the battery level:

Put both AirPods in the case and close the lid.
Bring the case near your iPhone and open the lid.
A popup will show the battery levels of both the AirPods and the case.

If the case is below 10%, plug it in and let it charge. Once it has enough battery, try charging the AirPods again.

2. Reinsert the AirPods Properly

Sometimes the AirPod just isn’t seated correctly on the charging contact.

Remove both AirPods from the case.
Check for anything inside the case blocking the contacts.
Put the AirPods back in and make sure they’re snug and the lid closes properly.

You should see the charging indicator light turn on.

3. Clean the AirPods and the Charging Case

Dirt, dust, or earwax buildup can block the connection between the AirPods and the charging pins.

What you need:

Lint-free microfiber cloth
Q-tip or soft brush
70% isopropyl alcohol (optional)

How to clean:

Gently wipe the silver tips of each AirPod with a dry cloth.
Use a dry brush or Q-tip to clean the inside of the case and the contact points.
Lightly dampen a Q-tip with alcohol to clean around the case — but never pour liquid into it.

Do this regularly, especially if you use your AirPods daily.

4. Use an Official Apple Charging Cable

Using cheap third-party cables can cause charging issues — for the case and the AirPods inside it.

Make sure you’re using the original Apple cable or a certified replacement.
Try a different Lightning cable and power adapter if you’re unsure.

5. Update Your AirPods Firmware

Outdated firmware can cause weird bugs — like one AirPod not charging or syncing properly.

To check firmware:

Connect your AirPods to your iPhone.
Go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the ⓘ icon next to your AirPods.
Scroll down to see the firmware version.

Apple updates are automatic, but make sure your AirPods are charging and your iPhone is nearby for updates to install.

6. Try Charging the AirPods Overnight

If one AirPod is completely dead, leave both in the case overnight while the case is plugged in.

This gives it time to slowly recover and may get it to start charging again.

7. Reset Your AirPods

Still not charging? Try a full reset to clear out any pairing or battery glitches.

Here’s how:

Put both AirPods in the case.
Open the lid and go to Settings > Bluetooth on your iPhone.
Tap the ⓘ next to your AirPods, then tap Forget This Device.
Close the lid, then open it again.
Hold the button on the back of the case until the light flashes amber, then white.
Reconnect the AirPods like new.