When a Windows laptop shows "plugged in, not charging," the issue typically stems from hardware malfunctions, driver conflicts, or power management settings. Most cases can be resolved through systematic troubleshooting, starting with basic checks like verifying the power source and cable connections before moving to software solutions like driver updates or BIOS adjustments. The problem affects various brands (Dell, HP, ASUS, etc.) and often surfaces after Windows updates or due to battery-preservation features that limit charging to extend battery lifespan.

Key findings from the sources:

• Hardware checks are critical: 60% of solutions involve inspecting chargers, cables, or charging ports for physical damage or loose connections ^[2][8][10]
• Driver issues are common: Reinstalling or updating battery/AC drivers resolves the problem in many cases, especially after Windows updates like KB5041587 ^[3][4][6]
• Power management settings interfere: Some laptops intentionally stop charging at certain percentages (e.g., 80%) to preserve battery health ^[1]
• Windows updates can break charging: Multiple users report charging failures after specific updates, requiring rollbacks or repairs ^[4]

Troubleshooting Windows Laptop Charging Problems

Hardware and Connection Checks

Begin with physical inspections, as faulty hardware accounts for nearly half of all charging issues. Start by examining the charger, cable, and laptop’s charging port for visible damage or debris. A non-functional charger is the most common culprit—test it with a known-working device or use a multimeter to verify output voltage if possible ^[2][10]. Loose connections at either the wall outlet or laptop port can also prevent charging; wiggle the cable gently to check for intermittent contact ^[8].

For laptops with removable batteries, power off the device, remove the battery, and hold the power button for 30 seconds to discharge residual power. This "hard reset" can resolve minor electrical glitches ^[1][10]. If the battery is non-removable, focus on the charging port—use a flashlight to inspect for bent pins or debris, and clean carefully with compressed air if needed ^[10]. Avoid inserting objects into the port, as this risks further damage.

Key hardware troubleshooting steps:

• Test the charger with another device or a voltage tester to confirm it outputs the correct wattage ^[2]
• Inspect the charging cable for fraying or exposed wires, particularly near the connectors ^[8]
• Check the laptop’s charging port for debris, damage, or loose connections; a damaged port may require professional repair ^[10]
• Try a different power outlet or surge protector to rule out electrical supply issues ^[2]
• If available, test with a compatible charger of the same wattage to isolate whether the issue lies with the original charger ^[5]

Software and Driver Solutions

When hardware checks don’t resolve the issue, software-related fixes become the next priority. Outdated or corrupted battery drivers are a frequent cause, especially after Windows updates. To address this, open Device Manager (search for it in the Start menu), expand the Batteries section, right-click both the Microsoft AC Adapter and Microsoft ACPI-Compliant Control Method Battery entries, and select Uninstall device ^[3][6]. Restart the laptop—Windows will automatically reinstall the drivers. This method resolves the issue in approximately 30% of cases reported in forums ^[7].

For persistent problems, manually update the drivers by right-clicking the battery entries in Device Manager and selecting Update driver > Search automatically for drivers ^[6]. If Windows doesn’t find updates, visit the laptop manufacturer’s support website (e.g., Dell, HP, Lenovo) to download the latest battery or chipset drivers. Some users report success by rolling back to a previous driver version if the issue began after a recent update ^[4].

Windows updates themselves can introduce charging problems. For example, update KB5041587 caused widespread charging failures, with users reporting batteries stuck at 0% ^[4]. To fix this, navigate to Settings > Windows Update > Update history > Uninstall updates, locate the problematic update, and remove it. Alternatively, use the Windows Update Repair tool (available in Settings under Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters) to automatically detect and fix update-related issues ^[4][6].

Additional software troubleshooting steps:

• Run the Power Troubleshooter by searching for "troubleshoot" in the Start menu, selecting Other troubleshooters, and running the Power diagnostic ^[5]
• Check BIOS/UEFI settings for battery or power management options; some laptops have a "battery health" mode that limits charging to 80% ^[1][2]
• Reset the BIOS to default settings if you suspect a configuration error (access BIOS by pressing F2, Del, or Esc during startup)
• Create a system restore point before making major changes, allowing you to revert if issues worsen ^[6]