Laptop won’t turn on: what to check first

By OneTechPro · Updated November 4, 2026 · General guidance, not a diagnosis

Check the power

• Plug the charger straight into a wall outlet, not a power strip.
• Look for a light on the laptop or the charger.
• Try a different outlet, and a different charger if you have one.
• Check the charger cable for damage, and the plug for dirt or bent pins.

Try a power reset

• Unplug the charger and everything else, such as USB drives and printers.
• If the battery is removable, take it out.
• Hold the power button for about 30 seconds.
• Plug in the charger and try again.

Is it on but black?

Listen for fans and look for keyboard or charging lights. If it seems to run but the screen is black, try an external monitor. If that works, the laptop’s own screen or cable is the problem.

What not to do

• Don’t keep pressing the power button over and over.
• Don’t open it up unless you know what you’re doing.
• Don’t keep trying if you smell burning. Stop and bring it in.

If your files matter

Tell us when you bring it in. Often the files are fine even when the laptop isn’t, and we’ll handle the drive carefully.