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?
Here 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.
Check your iPad’s charging cable
The charging cable delivers juice to your iPad, so you should investigate 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. And even if you can’t see any obvious signs of wear — try a different charging cable if you’ve got one lying around.
Check your iPad's charging block
iPads have chargers that are made up of two parts — a charging cable, and a charging block. If you’re convinced that your cable is working okay, then the charger could be the culprit. Try a different power outlet first though, just to make sure it’s not the charging plug. But if the problem keeps happening when you plug it into a different outlet, then try another USB charging block.
Don’t have an extra charging block to hand? 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.
Check your iPad's charging port
There might be nothing wrong with your iPad’s charging cable or block. It could just be the charging port on your tablet that’s causing trouble. The Lightning or USB-C charging ports on iPads are exposed so that you can access them easily. But over time, dust and fluff will get stuck in there. And this build-up of debris might be what’s stopping your charging cable from making a proper connection with your iPad.
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.
Make sure your iPad isn’t too hot or too cold
iPads have optimal operating temperatures like most other gadgets. 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 tablet in very hot conditions can even shorten its battery life permanently. So, don’t leave it in your car or direct sunlight!
Connect a Magic Keyboard
iPad Air and iPad Pro tablets are compatible with Apple’s Magic Keyboards. These attachable accessories essentially let you use your tablets like laptops. Neat! 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.
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 instead — it might have nothing to do with any hardware! And turning it off and on again could do the trick.
For iPads without a Home button: Press and quickly release the volume button nearest to the top button. Then press and quickly release the volume button that’s furthest away from the top button. After you’ve done that, press and hold the top button 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.
iPad not charging or turning on
There’s another pickle that you might find yourself in. If your iPad’s battery has run completely dry and it won’t turn on at all — even with the charger plugged in — then 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.
