So, your iPad isn’t charging or it’s charging very slowly. Don’t panic though — it’s not curtains for your trusty tablet just yet. It might only need a forced restart or a different plug or cable to fix the problem. But there’s a chance it could be something a bit more complicated.
That’s why we’ve put together this article. It contains some handy tips that’ll get your iPad’s battery back to full charge in no time…
Why is my iPad not charging?
There are a few reasons why your Apple iPad might not be charging properly. You’ve plugged it in to charge, but the tablet isn’t recognising the charging cable. Or maybe the lightning bolt icon pops up on your iPad to show it’s charging, but it’s not actually holding any of the battery when you unplug it.
Generally, older iPads are more likely to have problems charging. That’s because they’ve been used way more than newer devices, which eventually lowers the battery life. After all, nothing last forever. But there are likely to be other factors beyond that too.
How do I fix an iPad that won't charge?
There are a few key things to check out if you’ve got an iPad that won't charge. Try these steps before doing anything more serious like contacting Apple:
1. Inspect your iPad’s charging cable
The charging cable delivers power to your iPad, so you should check that first. Especially as cables are flimsy and can break easily if you’re not careful with them. Look out for any nasty bends, split tubing, or fraying. Even if you can’t see any obvious signs of wear, try a different charging cable if you’ve got one.
2. Check your iPad's charging block
iPads have chargers made up of two parts — a charging cable and a charging block. If you’re convinced your cable’s working okay, then the charger could be the culprit. But try a different power outlet first, just to make sure it’s not the charging plug. And if the problem remains when you plug it into a different outlet, then you should try another USB charging block.
Don’t have an extra charging block?
Don’t worry. Just plug your iPad into a USB port on a computer that supports USB 2.0 or later (with the cable, obviously). You could also try a powered USB hub or a multi-socket with USB ports.
3. Check your iPad's charging port
It could be the charging port on your iPad causing the issue. Especially as over time, dust and fluff can accumulate inside its Lightning or USB-C port. And this debris build-up might be preventing your charging cable from making a proper connection with your iPad.
How do I clean my iPad's charging port?
You need to be really careful when you’re clearing lint from an iPad charging port. Don’t blow into it, as the moisture in your breath can get inside your tablet and cause more problems. And don’t use anything sharp like metal paper clips or safety pins either. Softer things like cotton buds or toothpicks are way safer to use. But like we said, just be very gentle. Oh, and make sure to turn your iPad off first!
If you’re not confident about cleaning out the charging port on your iPad, take it to an Apple Store or an Authorised Apple Service Provider. They’ll sort it out for you.
4. Make sure your iPad isn’t too hot or too cold
iPads have optimal operating temperatures. So, if you’re trying to charge your iPad when it’s too hot or too cold, then it’ll probably charge very slowly or not at all. According to Apple, you should only use your iPad when the “ambient temperature is between 0º and 35ºC (32º to 95ºF).”
Using your iPad in temperatures above or below that might make your tablet change its behaviour to stay cool. And using your iPad in very hot conditions can even shorten its battery life permanently. So, don’t leave it in your car or direct sunlight!
5. Connect a Magic Keyboard
iPad Air and iPad Pro tablets are compatible with Apple’s Magic Keyboards, which let you use them like laptops. But they also have separate USB-C ports with pass-through charging to your iPad. So, try plugging your charger into that port and see if it’ll give your iPad’s battery some juice.
6. Force restart your iPad
If none of the above work, then you’ll need to restart your iPad. That’s because the issue could be software related and have nothing to do with any hardware. Here’s how to restart your iPad:
For iPads without a Home button: Press and quickly release the volume up button. Then press and quickly release the volume down button. After you’ve done that, press and hold the top button above the volume buttons until your iPad restarts.
For iPads with a Home button: Press and hold both the top (or side) button and the Home button at the same time until you see the Apple logo appear on your iPad’s screen.
If your iPad won’t charge up after it’s restarted, then get in touch with Apple Support. You could also take your iPad into your local Apple Store or Authorised Apple Service Provider.
Why is my iPad not charging or turning on?
If your iPad’s battery has run completely dry and it won’t turn on at all (even with the charger plugged in), don’t lose hope. Try leaving your iPad on charge for about 30 minutes and check it again. Usually, the Apple logo will appear in about 5-10 minutes. But a very flat battery might need more time to store up some charge.
Looking for more iPad advice? Check out our Best iPad tips for beginners. And if you want some cool accessories for your tablet, don’t forget to shop our range of tablet cases and keyboards.
