How to Charge Your Cell Phone

Reviewed by Luigi Oppido

Last Updated: February 19, 2025 Fact Checked

Cell phones don't have unlimited batteries that will keep it running for weeks and years before needing a charge. If you use your phone once or twice a day, it is likely you will need to charge it after about a day of use.

How do you charge a phone?

To charge your cell phone, find the charging cord that came with the phone (or an identical one if you no longer have the original) and plug it into the wall or a USB port. Slide the other end into the charging port on your phone. The phone will begin charging immediately.^{[1]
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Steps

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They usually come with the phone. If you have lost yours, see if you have another one that works with your phone or go to the place you bought the phone and see about getting a new one.^{[2]
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If it's four or three bars, you don't need to charge it. But once it is down to two, one, or even no bars of power, it needs to be charged.^{[3]
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Do not just shove it in, as this could damage the phone.
It should be flashing if your phone is charging or a different color.^{[4]
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Question

What could be the problem if my phone is not charging even though it is plugged in?

Community Answer

Try placing the charger in at different angles, or buy a new charger.

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Do you charge the phone with it off or on?

Community Answer

You can charge it either way. It might charge slightly faster when powered off just because it's not using any power in the meantime.

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How long does it take to charge a phone battery?

Community Answer

Usually, it takes about 2-3 hours to fully charge a phone battery, but If the charger has a higher amperage, the battery will charge faster.

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Tips

Charge your phone every night if you use it a lot.

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Keep your phone charged all the way when not in use.

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Calling people, texting, using Wi-Fi, and playing games uses up battery faster than simply having your phone on.

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