What to do if Apple Watch won't charge

⚡ Fast fix

• Check the basics: Make sure your charger is plugged in securely and the outlet works.
• Clean the back of the watch: Dirt or residue can block the connection—wipe it gently with a soft cloth.
• Reposition it: Adjust the watch on the charger until you see the charging icon.
• Force restart: Hold the Digital Crown and Side button for 10–15 seconds until the Apple® logo appears.

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If your Apple Watch® isn't charging or won't turn on, you're missing out on a convenient way to check your messages, count your steps, and even check the time of day. But don't worry, there's usually a simple fix.

At Asurion, we find and troubleshoot any issue with your devices—fast. Whether you've spilled water on your laptop or your Xbox One® is lagging, our experts can help. Here are some steps to take if your Apple Watch won't charge or turn on.

Remove plastic wrap and accessories

If your Apple Watch isn't charging, check to see if you've removed all the plastic wrap from your device and charging stand. Also, remove your watch band and any other accessories to make sure they're not getting in the way when you try to charge your device.

Look for the lightning bolt icon

To confirm that your watch is charging when it's seated on its charger, look for the lightning bolt on the face of your Apple Watch.

• If you see a green lightning bolt, you'll know that your device is charging or fully charged.
• If you see a red lightning bolt, a red lightning bolt with a charging cable icon, or no lightning bolt, you need to charge your watch. (This should take 30 minutes or so).
• Make sure to seat your watch on the charger correctly. The round, raised part of the watch should be on the round, indented part of the charger; you'll feel the two pieces connect with a slight snap when you've found the sweet spot.

Check your charging cable and USB power adapter

If your watch still isn't charging, check to see that you've fully plugged your charging cable into the USB power adapter, and that your adapter is securely connected to a power outlet.

Check the cord and adapter for any damage as well. And make sure you're using the Apple Watch Magnetic Charging Cable or the Apple Watch Magnetic Fast Charger to USB-C Cable that came with your device.

Test other stands, chargers, and outlets

Still having trouble? Try using a different charger, charging stand, cord, or adapter to see if that solves the problem. Also, try plugging your charger into a different outlet.

Clean your Apple Watch

Clean the back and front of your Apple Watch face and charging stand by gently wiping them with a microfiber cloth dabbed in isopropyl alcohol. Even a small amount of dust, dirt, or grime could keep your watch from charging or starting.

Force restart your Apple Watch

If you've tried the above steps and your Apple Watch still won't turn on or charge, you may need to try a force restart. Here's how:

1. Press and hold the circular Digital Crown and the Side button at the same time for 10-15 seconds.
2. When you see the Apple® logo, let go of the buttons and wait for your watch to turn on.
3. Place your watch on the charger to see if it will charge.

Need help pairing your devices? Check out our guide for how to connect your Apple Watch to your iPhone®.