Is your iPad taking forever to charge? Many iPad users face this problem, but there’s no need to panic. When your iPad charges slowly, it could be due to using the wrong power adapter, having too many apps running, or dealing with a dirty charging port. Fixing a slow-charging iPad often starts with basic steps like checking your cable, cleaning the charging port, and using the right power adapter.
Simple changes can make a big difference in how fast your iPad charges. Try turning on Airplane Mode while charging or lowering screen brightness to speed things up. Another quick fix is to reset your iPad by holding down the Sleep and Home buttons for about 10-15 seconds until the Apple logo appears. This often helps when software issues are slowing down charging.
How to Fix an iPad Charging Slowly
If your iPad is taking forever to charge — or barely charges at all — don’t worry.
Slow charging is one of the most common iPad issues and is usually caused by a weak power source, cable problems, or background activity.
This guide will walk you through all possible causes and fixes, from simple checks to advanced troubleshooting.
🧩 Step 1: Check Your Power Source
✅ Use the Original Apple Charger
- Always use the Apple USB-C or Lightning cable and power adapter that came with your iPad.
- Some iPads, like the iPad Pro, require a 20W or higher USB-C power adapter for fast charging.
- Using a low-wattage iPhone charger (5W or 10W) will dramatically slow charging.
Tip:
Check the adapter label — it should say something like “20W USB-C Power Adapter” or higher.
Recommended wattage by model:
| iPad Model | Recommended Charger |
|---|---|
| iPad (10th Gen) | 20W USB-C |
| iPad Air (4th/5th Gen) | 20W USB-C |
| iPad Pro (USB-C models) | 20W–30W USB-C |
| iPad mini (6th Gen) | 20W USB-C |
(Source: Apple Support)
🔌 Step 2: Inspect Your Charging Cable and Adapter
Check for Damage
- Look for frayed cables, bent connectors, or burn marks.
- Try another Apple-certified cable and adapter to rule out hardware failure.
Avoid Cheap Third-Party Accessories
Non-certified accessories can:
- Deliver inconsistent power
- Overheat your iPad
- Trigger “Accessory Not Supported” alerts
Use only MFi-certified (Made for iPhone/iPad) accessories.
🧼 Step 3: Clean the Charging Port
Dust, lint, or debris in the port can block the connection.
How to Clean It Safely
- Turn off your iPad.
- Use a soft, dry brush or toothpick to gently remove debris.
- Avoid metal objects or liquids.
If the cable doesn’t fit snugly or feels loose, the port may need professional cleaning.
(Source: wikiHow – iPad Charging Slow)
⚙️ Step 4: Close Background Apps and Reduce Power Usage
Background activity can slow down charging.
Try These Quick Fixes:
- Close unused apps: Swipe up from the bottom and flick away open apps.
- Turn on Airplane Mode: Temporarily disables Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for faster charging.
- Lower brightness: Go to Settings → Display & Brightness.
- Disable Background App Refresh:
Settings → General → Background App Refresh → Off.
These steps reduce power drain while charging.
🔋 Step 5: Check Battery Health and Software
Update iPadOS
Outdated software can cause charging bugs.
Go to Settings → General → Software Update and install the latest version.
Check Battery Health (iPadOS 18 and newer)
- Go to Settings → Battery → Battery Health & Charging.
- Look for Maximum Capacity — if it’s below 80%, your battery may need replacement.
If your iPad doesn’t show Battery Health, you can check it using Apple Diagnostics or a Mac with System Information.
(Source: Apple Support)
🔄 Step 6: Restart or Force Restart Your iPad
Sometimes, a simple restart clears temporary software issues.
Restart Normally
- Hold Top + Volume button, then slide to power off.
- Wait 10 seconds, then turn it back on.
Force Restart (if unresponsive)
- iPads with Face ID: Press and quickly release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold Top until the Apple logo appears.
- iPads with Home Button: Hold Home + Top until the Apple logo appears.
🧠 Step 7: Avoid Charging While in Use
High-performance apps (like games or video editing) generate heat and slow charging.
To maximize speed:
- Let the iPad sleep while charging.
- Avoid placing it on soft surfaces (like beds) that trap heat.
- Keep it in a cool, ventilated area.
⚡ Step 8: Try a Different Power Source
If charging is still slow:
- Plug into a different wall outlet.
- Avoid USB ports on computers — they often provide only 5W of power.
- If using a power strip, test with a direct wall connection.
🧰 Step 9: Reset All Settings (Last Resort)
If none of the above works, try resetting your iPad’s settings (this won’t delete data).
Go to:
Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPad → Reset → Reset All Settings.
This resets preferences like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and display settings — sometimes resolving charging bugs.
🧾 Step 10: Contact Apple Support
If your iPad still charges slowly after all these steps, the battery or charging port may need service.
You can:
- Book a Genius Bar appointment
- Use Apple’s mail-in repair service
- Visit an authorized Apple service provider
🧩 Quick Summary
| Cause | Fix |
|---|---|
| Low-wattage charger | Use a 20W+ Apple adapter |
| Damaged cable | Replace with MFi-certified cable |
| Dirty charging port | Clean gently with a soft brush |
| Background activity | Close apps, enable Airplane Mode |
| Outdated software | Update iPadOS |
| Battery wear | Check Battery Health; replace if below 80% |
| Faulty power source | Use a different outlet or adapter |
🔗 Helpful Resources
- Apple Support – If your iPad won’t charge
- MacObserver – iPad Charging Slowly? Check These 6 Causes and Solutions
- wikiHow – Why Is My iPad Charging Slow? Complete Battery Life Guide
- DigitalHow – iPad Battery Draining Fast and Charging Slow? Try These Fixes
✅ Final Takeaway
A slow-charging iPad is usually caused by a weak power adapter, faulty cable, or background activity — not a serious hardware problem.
Start with simple fixes like using the right charger and cleaning the port, and only consider repair if the issue persists after trying everything above.
Key Takeaways
- Check your charging cable, adapter, and clean the charging port to fix most slow charging issues.
- Turn on Airplane Mode and close background apps to help your iPad charge faster.
- Reset your iPad or update its software when basic fixes don’t solve slow charging problems.
Understanding iPad Charging Basics
Before diving into troubleshooting a slow-charging iPad, it’s helpful to understand how iPad charging actually works. This knowledge will help you identify when something isn’t working correctly and what might be causing the problem.
iPad Battery Specifications
iPads contain lithium-ion batteries with different capacities depending on the model. The battery size ranges from about 8,600mAh in smaller models to over 10,000mAh in larger Pro versions. Most iPads are designed to last 10 hours on a full charge during regular use.
Battery health naturally decreases over time. After 500 charge cycles, an iPad battery typically holds about 80% of its original capacity. This gradual decline can make charging seem slower as the device ages.
The battery health can be checked in the Settings app under Battery > Battery Health. A significantly degraded battery often needs replacement to restore normal charging speeds.
Standard Charging Speed and Power Source
The charging speed of an iPad depends heavily on the power adapter used. Apple includes different chargers with different models:
| iPad Model | Standard Charger | Charging Time (0-100%) |
|---|---|---|
| Base iPad | 10W or 12W | 4-5 hours |
| iPad Pro | 18W or 20W | 2-3 hours |
Using the wrong adapter is one of the most common causes of slow charging. An iPhone’s 5W adapter will charge an iPad, but extremely slowly.
Wall outlets provide the fastest charging speed. Charging from a computer’s USB port delivers less power—only about 2.5W to 4.5W—leading to much slower charging times. External battery packs may also charge iPads more slowly than wall outlets.
Temperature affects charging speed too. iPads charge best between 62°F and 72°F (16°C to 22°C). Very hot or cold conditions can dramatically slow down charging as the device protects its battery.
Common Issues Affecting iPad Charging
When an iPad charges slowly, the problem typically stems from either software running in the background or hardware-related issues. Understanding these common problems can help you diagnose and fix your slow charging iPad more effectively.
Software Glitches and Background Applications
iPad charging speed can slow down significantly when multiple apps run in the background. These apps continue to use power even when you’re not actively using them. Running too many programs in the background is one of the most common causes of slow charging.
To fix this issue, double-click the home button (or swipe up and hold on newer models) to see all open apps. Then swipe up on each app to close it. This simple step often helps speed up charging.
Another helpful tip is to turn on Airplane Mode while charging. This disables power-hungry features like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. In fact, tests show that charging with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth turned OFF results in much faster charging.
Reducing screen brightness while charging can also make a big difference. The display uses a lot of power, so keeping it dim helps the battery charge faster.
Hardware-Related Problems
Several hardware issues can cause an iPad to charge slowly:
Charging Equipment Problems:
- Using a low-power USB port or adapter
- Using a damaged or poor-quality cable
- Using a phone charger instead of an iPad charger
Device Issues:
- Dirty charging port (carefully clean with a soft brush)
- Battery failure (batteries degrade over time)
- Temperature problems (iPads charge slowly when too hot or cold)
Try using a different power adapter or cable to determine if your charging equipment is the problem. Make sure to use an official Apple charger or a high-quality third-party option rated for iPads.
Check your charging port for lint or debris. A gentle cleaning might fix connection issues that slow down charging.
Troubleshooting Slow iPad Charging
When your iPad takes forever to charge, the issue typically stems from a few common problems that are easy to fix. Most charging issues involve hardware problems with cables, adapters, or ports, but software glitches can also slow down charging speeds.
Inspecting the Charging Cable and USB Port
Check your charging cable for signs of damage first. Frayed cables or bent connectors can significantly reduce charging speed. Try wiggling the cable while connected – if charging starts and stops, the cable is likely damaged.
Not all chargers work the same. Using the wrong power adapter can cause slow charging. iPads need higher-power adapters than iPhones. The original iPad charger (12W or higher) will charge much faster than a 5W iPhone charger.
Test with different cables and adapters if possible. Borrow a friend’s charger to see if it works better.
Low-power USB ports on computers charge much slower than wall outlets. Always use a wall adapter for faster charging. If you must use a computer, connect directly to a USB port on the computer rather than through a hub.
Examining the iPad Charging Port
A dirty charging port often causes slow charging. Turn off your iPad before cleaning.
Look inside the charging port with a flashlight. You might see lint, dust or debris built up inside. Use a soft, dry toothbrush or wooden toothpick to gently remove any visible debris.
Be gentle! Metal tools can damage the connections inside the port.
If you see corrosion or damage, you may need professional repair. Signs include:
- Discoloration around the port
- Visible bent pins
- Charging works only at certain angles
After cleaning, connect your charger again and see if charging improves.
Checking for Software Updates
Outdated iOS can sometimes cause charging problems. Apple regularly fixes bugs that affect battery and charging performance.
To check for updates:
- Connect to Wi-Fi
- Open Settings
- Tap General
- Tap Software Update
- Install any available updates
While updating, keep your iPad connected to power. Updates can drain the battery quickly.
Background apps can drain battery while charging. Having too many apps open can make charging seem slower. Close unused apps by swiping up from the bottom and pausing, then swipe apps up to close them.
Turn on Airplane Mode while charging for faster results. This turns off all wireless functions that drain power.
Restarting or Force Restarting the iPad
A simple restart often fixes charging problems. This clears temporary memory and resets background processes.
Normal restart:
- Hold the top button until “slide to power off” appears
- Slide to power off
- Wait 30 seconds
- Press and hold the top button to turn it back on
If your iPad won’t respond, try a force restart:
- For iPads with Home button: Press and hold both the Home and Top buttons for 10-15 seconds until the Apple logo appears
- For iPads without Home button: Press Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold the Top button until the Apple logo appears
After restarting, connect your charger and check if charging speed improves. Often this simple fix is all you need.
Optimizing iPad Settings for Better Charging
Your iPad’s settings can significantly impact charging speed. Adjusting a few simple options can help your battery charge faster and maintain better health over time.
Enabling Low Power Mode
Low Power Mode is a helpful feature that can make your iPad charge faster. To turn it on:
- Open the Settings app
- Tap on Battery
- Toggle on Low Power Mode
This mode reduces power consumption by limiting background activities. Your screen will dim after a shorter period of inactivity.
Low Power Mode also pauses automatic downloads and some visual effects. These changes might seem small, but they add up to less battery drain and faster charging.
You’ll know Low Power Mode is active when the battery icon turns yellow. The iPad will automatically turn off this mode when the battery reaches 80% charge.
Managing Background App Refresh
Running too many programs in the background can slow down charging. Background App Refresh lets apps update even when you’re not using them.
To control this feature:
- Go to Settings
- Tap General
- Select Background App Refresh
- Choose to turn it off completely or for specific apps
Not all apps need to refresh in the background. Social media and news apps use more power than simple utility apps.
You can also check which apps use the most battery. Go to Settings > Battery and scroll down to see the list. Consider closing power-hungry apps before charging.
This targeted approach helps your iPad charge faster while still keeping essential functions working.
When to Seek Professional Help
Sometimes DIY fixes aren’t enough to solve slow iPad charging problems. Hardware damage or serious system issues might require expert attention.
Identifying When It’s a Serious Hardware Issue
If your iPad still charges slowly after trying basic fixes, you might have a hardware problem. Look for these warning signs:
- Swollen battery (iPad feels thicker or screen bulges)
- Extreme overheating during charging
- Physical damage to the charging port
- Intermittent charging (connection keeps dropping)
- Battery drains even while plugged in
Another clear sign is when your iPad won’t charge at all. If restarting your iPad or switching cables doesn’t help, the charging port might be damaged.
Pay attention to how old your iPad is. Batteries typically last 2-3 years before their capacity drops significantly. If your iPad is older and charges slowly, the battery might need replacement.
Visiting an Apple Store or Contacting Apple Support
Getting expert help is easy. You can book an appointment at an Apple Store through the Apple website or Apple Support app. Genius Bar technicians can run diagnostics to find the exact problem.
If you can’t visit a store, call Apple Support at 1-800-MY-APPLE or chat with them online. They often guide you through additional troubleshooting steps.
Before your appointment, try these preparation steps:
- Back up your iPad
- Bring your charging cable and adapter
- Know your Apple ID password
- Check if your iPad is still under warranty
Apple-certified repair shops like CPR Cell Phone Repair are good alternatives to Apple Stores. They often fix charging issues at lower prices, especially for older iPads no longer covered by warranty.
Preventative Measures and Maintenance
Taking care of your iPad’s charging system requires both regular updates and proper handling. These simple habits can prevent slow charging issues before they start.
Regular Software Updates
Keeping your iPad’s software current is crucial for optimal charging performance. Software updates often include power management improvements that can fix slow charging issues.
To check for updates:
- Open Settings
- Tap General
- Select Software Update
If an update is available, connect to WiFi and plug in your iPad before installing. The latest iPadOS 17 includes several battery optimization features that help maintain charging efficiency.
Turn on automatic updates to stay current without having to remember. This setting can be found in the Software Update menu under “Automatic Updates.”
Apple regularly releases small patches that fix battery-draining bugs. These fixes can make a big difference in how fast your iPad charges.
Avoiding Overheating and Using Official Accessories
Heat is the enemy of battery health. Overheating can slow charging and damage your battery over time.
- Remove protective cases while charging
- Charge in cool, well-ventilated areas
- Avoid direct sunlight while charging
- Don’t use iPad for demanding tasks while charging
Using official Apple charging cables and adapters is equally important. Third-party accessories may be cheaper, but they often deliver less power and can damage your battery.
The Apple Store offers certified accessories that match your iPad’s power requirements. Look for MFi (Made for iPad) certification on third-party products if you don’t buy directly from Apple.
Check your charging cable regularly for damage like fraying or discoloration. Even minor cable damage can significantly slow charging speeds.
Advanced Solutions
When basic fixes don’t solve slow iPad charging issues, it’s time to try more technical approaches. Software problems often cause charging slowdowns that aren’t fixed by simple troubleshooting.
Repairing the iPad Operating System
If your iPad charges slowly even with the right cable and adapter, the operating system might need repair. Software glitches can interfere with power management and slow down charging speeds.
You can try updating iOS first. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to install the latest version. Updates often contain battery performance improvements that fix charging issues.
If updates don’t help, reset all settings. This won’t delete your data but can fix configuration problems. Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings.
For persistent issues, try recovery mode. Connect your iPad to a computer, open iTunes or Finder, then:
- Press and quickly release the Volume Up button
- Press and quickly release the Volume Down button
- Hold the Top button until the recovery screen appears
From here, you can choose to Update rather than Restore. This reinstalls iOS without erasing data and often fixes charging problems.
For severe cases, consider a DFU (Device Firmware Update) restore. This is the deepest type of system repair but will erase all data, so back up first.
Additional Tips for Improving iPad Charging
Beyond the basics, several factors affect how quickly your iPad charges. Where you plug in your device and which apps you use can make a big difference in charging speed.
Charging from Computer vs. Power Outlet
Using a power outlet will charge your iPad much faster than connecting it to a computer. Most computer USB ports provide only 0.5A of power, while wall adapters deliver 1A to 2.4A.
For the fastest charging:
- Always use the wall adapter that came with your iPad
- Avoid using a Mac or laptop for charging unless necessary
- If you must use a computer, pick a USB 3.0 port (often colored blue)
- Newer iPads charge faster with USB-C cables and adapters
A good test is to check if your iPad says “Charging” or “Not Charging” in the status bar. If it shows “Not Charging” while connected to a computer, the port isn’t providing enough power.
Understanding App Power Consumption
Some apps drain battery and slow down charging more than others. Background apps running during charging can significantly reduce how quickly your iPad powers up.
To improve charging speed:
- Close unused apps by swiping up from the bottom and flicking them away
- Turn off Background App Refresh in Settings > General
- Lower screen brightness while charging
- Enable Airplane Mode when you don’t need connectivity
Video streaming, gaming, and navigation apps use the most power. Graphics-intensive programs force your iPad to work harder and generate heat, which slows down charging.
You can check which apps use the most battery by going to Settings > Battery. This shows a breakdown of power usage by app over the last 24 hours or 10 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
iPad charging issues can be frustrating but often have simple fixes. Here are answers to common questions about slow charging problems.
What are the potential reasons for an iPad charging more slowly than usual?
Several factors can cause your iPad to charge slowly. Using the wrong power adapter is a common reason – always use the adapter that came with your device.
Running too many apps in the background forces your iPad to work harder, which can slow down charging. These apps use power even while charging.
A dirty charging port can prevent proper connection. Dust and lint build up over time and block the connection points.
Using a damaged or poor-quality cable can significantly reduce charging speed. Check for fraying or bends in your cable.
How can one troubleshoot an iPad that is charging slowly and losing battery life rapidly?
First, try a full reset by holding both the Sleep and Home buttons for 10-15 seconds until the Apple logo appears. This often fixes minor software issues.
Check for software updates. Outdated software can cause battery and charging problems.
Turn on Airplane Mode while charging. This stops all wireless signals and helps your iPad charge faster.
Reduce screen brightness while charging. The display uses a lot of power, so dimming it helps the battery charge more quickly.
What steps can be taken to accelerate the charging process for an iPad?
Close all background apps when charging. Swipe up from the bottom of the screen and close each app to prevent them from using power.
Turn off Background App Refresh by going to Settings > General > Background App Refresh.
Use the original Apple charger or a certified high-quality alternative. Non-certified chargers may not provide enough power.
Avoid using the iPad while it’s charging. Using apps, especially games or videos, slows down the charging process dramatically.
Is there a way to increase iPad charging speed immediately?
Put your iPad in Airplane Mode. This single step can make a big difference in charging speed by turning off all wireless signals.
Use a wall outlet instead of a computer USB port. Wall outlets provide more power than computer USB ports.
Remove any case that might cause heat buildup. Heat slows down the charging process, so keeping your iPad cool helps it charge faster.
What effect does powering off an iPad have on charging speed?
Powering off an iPad completely while charging can increase charging speed significantly. This stops all processes and apps from running.
When turned off, the iPad uses all incoming power to charge the battery instead of also powering the system and apps.
The difference is most noticeable with older iPads or models with battery health issues.
What should be done if an iPad starts charging slowly following a software update?
Wait 24-48 hours after a major update. The system often needs time to reindex and optimize after updates, which temporarily increases battery usage.
Check for additional updates. Sometimes a follow-up update fixes charging issues from the previous one.
Reset all settings by going to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings. This keeps your data but returns all settings to default.
If problems persist, restoring the iPad through iTunes may be necessary. Make sure to back up your data first.
