Wireless earbuds have become an essential companion for everything from daily commutes to late-night Netflix marathons. But what happens when your trusty earbuds suddenly refuse to charge in their case? Before you panic or start browsing for replacements, there’s a good chance the fix is simpler than you think.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common reasons your earbuds might not be charging — and show you exactly how to fix the issue. Whether you're using soundcore, Sony, Samsung, or another brand, these troubleshooting steps will get you back to full power in no time.
Why Your Earbuds Aren’t Charging in the Case
Let’s start by looking at the likely culprits:
1. Dirty Charging Contacts
Dust, earwax, or debris can easily block the tiny metal contacts that connect your earbuds to the case. If those aren’t clean, no power flows.
2. Misalignment in the Charging Case
If your earbuds aren't seated properly, they won't make a connection — especially with more compact designs.
3. Charging Case is Out of Battery
It sounds obvious, but a flat charging case can’t power anything. Always check the case’s battery level.
4. Faulty Cable or Charging Port
A damaged cable or dusty charging port on the case could be stopping the charge at the source.
5. Software Bugs or Glitches
Like most tech, earbuds run on software. A small glitch could stop charging until you reset them.
6. Outdated Firmware
Some manufacturers release firmware updates to fix known charging problems. Outdated software can be the silent villain.
7. Battery Degradation
If you’ve had your earbuds for a few years, the battery may simply be wearing out — especially in one bud more than the other.
Step-by-Step: How to Fix Earbuds Not Charging
Now for the good stuff. Try these steps in order — chances are, you won’t need to reach the end before your problem is solved.
1. Clean the Earbuds and Case
Use a soft dry cloth, cotton bud, or a gentle brush to clean the contact points inside the case and on the earbuds themselves. Avoid liquids unless using electronics-safe wipes.
2. Re-seat the Earbuds
Remove and reinsert the earbuds, gently twisting them into place to ensure the contacts connect properly.
3. Check Your Charging Cable and Port
Try a different USB-C or micro-USB cable, and inspect the port for lint or damage. Charging problems might start with the case, not the buds.
4. Reset the Earbuds
Most earbuds can be reset by holding a button or tapping through the app. For example, with soundcore earbuds, you can press and hold the touchpads for 10 seconds to reset.
5. Update the Firmware
Open your brand’s companion app and check for updates. Many issues — including charging bugs — are resolved via firmware updates.
6. Test Each Earbud Individually
If only the left or right earbud isn’t charging, swap them around in the case to isolate whether it's a hardware fault.
Pro Tips to Avoid Charging Issues in the Future
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Clean your earbuds and case weekly
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Avoid letting the battery hit 0% before recharging
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Store them in a dry place — moisture can corrode the contacts
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Always use the original or certified charging cable
Looking for Reliable Earbuds That Just Work?
If your current pair is giving you endless grief, it might be time to upgrade. Check out the latest soundcore open earbuds like the AeroFit 2 or Aero clip, which are designed for long-lasting battery life and seamless charging — no faffing about.
AeroFit 2
For those who prefer a lightweight, open-ear design, the soundcore AeroFit 2 should be at the top of your list. These best wireless earbuds for working out are designed for maximum breathability, making them perfect for long workout sessions or casual all-day wear.
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What makes it best:
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Ultra-light, breathable design for all-day comfort
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Perfect for glasses wearers with downward-tilting ear hooks
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Bass-rich, high-resolution sound with LDAC and BassTurbo
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Open-ear design keeps you aware of your surroundings
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Long battery life (10 hours per charge, 42 hours total)
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Wireless charging case for convenience
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4-mic AI noise reduction for clear calls
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IP55 sweat, dust, and water resistance with SweatGuard
Aero clip
For those who dislike traditional in-ear buds but still want high-quality audio, the soundcore AeroClip is a game-changer. These open-ear, clip-on earbuds provide a pressure-free listening experience, making them perfect for long workouts and outdoor activities. Their adaptive ergonomic design ensures a secure, comfortable fit, even through intense movement.
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What makes it best:
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Ultra-comfortable open-ear design with a secure clip-on fit
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Durable, flexible memory titanium design
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Rich bass and clear audio with virtual bass technology
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4 AI-enhanced beamforming mics for crisp calls
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Stylish color options (Midnight Black, Champagne Mist, Rosy Brown)
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Long battery life (8 hours per charge, 32 hours total)
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IPX4 water resistance for sweat and splash protection
FAQ
Why are my earbuds not charging in the case?
This can be caused by dirty charging contacts, misalignment in the case, a depleted case battery, faulty charging cables, or even software glitches. Cleaning the earbuds and checking the charging setup usually resolves the issue.
How do I fix wireless earbuds that won’t charge?
Start by cleaning the charging contacts with a dry cloth or cotton bud. Make sure the earbuds are seated properly in the case. Try a different cable and reset the earbuds using the manufacturer’s instructions.
Why is only one earbud charging?
If only one side (left or right) isn’t charging, it might be due to dirt, faulty positioning, or battery degradation. Try switching sides in the case, cleaning both earbuds and charging points, and resetting the earbuds.
Do earbuds stop charging over time?
Yes, lithium-ion batteries degrade over time. If your earbuds are older than two years and frequently fail to charge, it may be time to replace them.
Conclusion
While it’s frustrating when your earbuds won’t charge, most issues are quick fixes. Whether it’s a bit of dust, a dodgy cable, or a glitchy firmware, a little know-how goes a long way.Keep this guide bookmarked and your earbuds clean, and you’ll be back to enjoying your favourite tunes, podcasts, or workouts with zero interruptions.
