Power Bank Not Charging Your Phone? 7 Fixes

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When a power bank will not charge your phone, the cause is usually the cable, the port or a low charge. Try these in order.

1. Charge the Power Bank First

A completely flat power bank may not output anything. Charge it for a while and check the indicator lights.

2. Try a Different Cable

Cables fail more often than power banks. Test with a cable you know works.

3. Try a Different Output Port

Many power banks have several ports, and one may be faulty or slower. Try each one.

4. Wake It Up

Some power banks need a button press to start output. Press the power button, or unplug and replug the cable.

5. Check for Low-Current Shutoff

Some power banks turn off automatically when the connected device draws very little power, which happens with earbuds, smartwatches and small trackers. Many have a “low-current” mode you can enable, often by double-pressing the button.

6. Let It Cool Down

Power banks stop working if they overheat. Take it out of the sun or pocket and let it cool before trying again.

7. Check the Port and Compatibility

Clean lint out of the ports. If you are charging a laptop or fast-charging a phone, check the power bank supports the needed output.

Power Bank Not Charging Itself

Check the input cable and charger, and use the port marked as the input. A worn battery that no longer holds charge should be replaced.

For options, read my best AliExpress power banks.