Why is my iPhone or Android Phone Charging Slowly?

If you notice that your phone is taking longer to recharge than usual or you’re curious why other devices charge faster, there are several factors that could be causing your device to charge slowly.

Here are some quick tips to help speed up the charging process for your smartphone.

Check your cables

The first step is to check the charging cable you are using. Cheaply made cables can wear out over time, especially if they are wound tightly between charges, leading to damage to the wiring inside the cable.

If possible, borrow a friend’s charging cable and compare the charging speeds. If you notice a difference and your cable is slower, consider replacing it with a new one. Look for cables that support fast charging, based on the charging standards supported by your phone.

For more details, read our guide on how to choose a USB-C cable for charging.

What power rating is your charger?

Chargers come in various wattages and adhere to different power standards. If you have a standard 9W or 18W power brick, consider upgrading to a more powerful charger for faster charging speeds.

Check the power rating on your charger and consider investing in a faster adapter with higher wattage. Make sure to match the charger with your device’s maximum charging capacity.

Before upgrading your power solution, check your phone’s make and model to determine its maximum charging capacity.

Does your phone support fast charging?

Each phone has its own internal limit for charging speed based on battery hardware limitations. Make sure your phone supports fast charging before investing in a high-power charger.

Ensure you are using the appropriate charger for your device to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Make sure to enable Fast Charging features on your device if required.

Is there fluff in your charging port?

Dirt and debris can accumulate in the charging port over time, affecting the connection quality. Gently clean the port using a toothpick or plastic tool to remove any obstructions.

Do you use your phone while it’s charging?

Avoid using your phone while it’s charging to speed up the charging process. For even faster charging, consider turning off the device completely.

Are you using wireless charging?

Wireless charging is convenient but slower compared to wired charging. If you need a quick recharge, opt for a cable connection instead.

Is your battery faulty?

If you’ve tried all the above methods and your phone still charges slowly, it could indicate a faulty battery. Check the battery health on your device to confirm any issues.

How to check battery health on your phone

iPhone

On iOS devices, navigate to Settings > Battery > Battery Health and Charging to check the current battery capacity. If it’s below 80%, consider getting it replaced.

If the device is under warranty, you may be eligible for a free or discounted battery replacement.

Android phone

Android devices have battery diagnostics tools under Settings > Battery > Battery diagnostics. Use this feature to identify any battery issues and consider repair options.

If battery issues persist, contact the manufacturer or a repair service for further assistance.

These tips should help improve the charging performance of your phone. If issues persist, consider upgrading to a newer device for faster charging capabilities. Links to recommended devices can be found below.

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