Why is my iPad not turning on? 

Here’s how to fix when your iPad not turning on.

You need not panic if you suddenly see your iPad not turning on and the screen of your device has turned black and has become unresponsive even after pressing and holding its power button. In this article, I am going to show how to turn on iPad that won’t turn on and get your device working again by following a few simple steps.

The first thing that may come up in your mind – why is my iPad not turning on? Let’s, therefore, first look into the probable causes of why your iPad won’t turn on.

Why won’t my iPad turn on?

You may wonder ‘why my iPad won’t turn on even when plugged in? There are several reasons why your iPad doesn’t turn on.

Common hardware and software reasons your iPad won’t turn on or charge
When your iPad seems determined to play dead, the culprit generally falls into one of two categories: hardware gremlins or software hiccups.

Hardware problems can show up in a few sneaky ways:

• Physical damage: If your iPad has taken a dive off the dining table, or met a spilled cup of coffee head-on, you might be dealing with a damaged screen, malfunctioning power or volume buttons, or even internal components knocked out of commission.
• Charging port issues: Dust and lint love to hide in charging ports, preventing a good connection. Bent or broken charging pins, a frayed Lightning or USB-C cable, or an old adapter can also keep your device from powering up.
• Battery trouble: Sometimes, batteries simply reach the end of their natural life and refuse to take a charge, leaving your iPad as unresponsive as a teenager on Monday morning.

Software issues can be just as frustrating, and they often strike without warning:

• System crashes: An unexpected glitch, buggy update, or a rogue app can cause your iPad’s operating system to lock up, freeze, or appear black and unresponsive.
• Corrupted files or settings: Installation failures or disrupted software updates may result in corrupted system files, keeping your device stuck at a black screen.
• Failed updates: Occasionally, updating your iPad can go awry, especially if interrupted, leaving it unable to restart normally.

Often, a force restart or plugging your iPad into your computer for a software update can get things moving again, but other times, it calls for a bit more technical TLC.

Below are some of the common causes when your iPad will not turn on and becomes unresponsive,

i. Dead battery: It is among the most common reasons for an iPad not turning on. If the battery is completely depleted the iPad won’t start or iPad won’t switch on because the iPad won’t have enough power to start up. It can happen if you haven’t charged the iPad for a long time. The charging cable or adapter might also be faulty if the iPad doesn’t respond to charging;

ii. Software issues: Software glitches can cause an iPad to become unresponsive or fail to turn on. This can happen due to a frozen app, a corrupt system file, or an issue with the operating system. If an app on the iPad becomes unresponsive, it can prevent the iPad from turning on;

iii. Hardware issues: Physical damage can cause hardware issues. Underlying hardware issues can prevent an iPad from turning on. Faulty hardware components may be the reason why your iPad doesn’t turn on. These components include a damaged power button, a defective battery, or a faulty display. The power button handles initiating the boot-up process; if it fails, the iPad won’t turn on. In the same way, iPad won’t power on due to a defective or degraded battery.

Check for hardware issues

If your iPad still refuses to turn on after addressing battery and software concerns, it’s time to consider the potential for hardware trouble. Start by thinking back—has your iPad had any recent mishaps? A hard drop on the floor, a sudden jolt in your bag, or an unexpected splash of water can all spell trouble for sensitive internal components.

Common symptoms of hardware issues include:

• Persistent black screen even after a full charge
• No response when connecting to a power source or computer
• Visible cracks or damage around the buttons or display
• Signs of moisture or condensation under the screen

Here’s what you can do next:

1. Connect to a Computer: Plug your iPad into a Mac or Windows PC using a known-working cable (ideally the original one). If your computer recognizes the device in Finder or iTunes—even if the screen remains blank—this suggests the iPad has power but may have a display or hardware fault. If detected, back up your important data immediately to avoid loss.
2. Look for Physical Damage: Check the casing, buttons, and screen for obvious signs of impact or bending. If your power button feels loose, or you notice any cracks, that could explain the issue.
3. Check for Water Damage: Even a brief encounter with water can cause internal corrosion. Look for any moisture in the charging port or under the screen.
4. Seek Professional Help: If your iPad is unresponsive to all these steps, it’s likely there’s a more significant hardware problem. Visit an authorized Apple service provider or a trusted repair shop like uBreakiFix or Best Buy’s Geek Squad for a proper diagnostic and repair.

Don’t forget, continuing to attempt fixes if there’s hardware damage might make things worse—especially if water is involved. Let the professionals handle deeper repairs to prevent further harm.

Once you can identify the root cause why won’t my iPad turn on, it will be easier for you to resolve the issue. Now let’s see how to fix iPad that won’t turn on.

iPad not turning on or charging – steps to fix

Firstly, make sure that your iPad is free from any hardware issues. One of the possible reasons, why your iPad will not turn on, may be due to the battery getting drained.

When you see your iPad not charging or turning on the charging port of the device seems to malfunction. If there is a problem with the charging port that is not allowing your iPad to charge adequately, clean the charging port and ensure that there is no physical damage inside.

Be gentle and cautious while cleaning the charging port. Avoid blowing into it, as the moisture from your breath can actually cause more harm than good. Also, never use anything sharp—like safety pins or paper clips—to clear out debris. Instead, opt for softer tools such as a wooden toothpick or a cotton bud, and make sure to turn off your iPad before attempting any cleaning. Take your time, and check for any lint, dust, or visible debris that might be blocking the connection.

If after cleaning, the port still appears damaged or the iPad does not respond to charging, it could be a sign of a more serious hardware issue that may require professional repair.

If you are not using an authentic cable, then there is also a chance that your iPad won’t power on as its battery won’t get sufficient power to turn it on. So make sure that your iPad battery is functioning without any defects.

Why does my iPad show it’s charging but won’t hold a charge?

If your iPad lights up and displays the charging symbol but quickly loses power once you unplug it, several culprits might be at play. Often, this points to a battery that’s no longer able to hold a full charge—this is common as batteries wear down over time, especially if your device is a few years old or has been through many charging cycles.

It’s also a good idea to check the authenticity and condition of your charging cable and adapter. Sometimes, non-Apple or damaged cables (think of those frayed USB cords that have survived too many cross-country flights) can result in inconsistent charging, which doesn’t give your battery the juice it needs to power up fully.

Another possibility is debris or dust in your charging port, which can prevent a solid connection. Even if your iPad initially reacts as if it’s charging, a loose or interrupted connection can prevent the battery from charging properly. Carefully inspect and, if needed, clean out the port with a dry, soft brush.

Finally, in rare cases, internal hardware faults—like a failing logic board or other internal components—might be responsible for this problem. If you’ve tried multiple cables, cleaned the port, and still see the issue, it may be time to consult a professional.

Why does my iPad charge slowly or not at all when connected to a computer?

A common mistake many users make is trying to charge their iPad through a computer’s USB port. Unlike iPhones or smaller devices, iPads are designed with a much larger battery and need more power to charge efficiently. Most standard computer USB ports simply don’t deliver enough current for the iPad, so you might notice your device charges at a snail’s pace—or not at all.

You may even see a “Not Charging” message appear beside the battery icon when plugged into a computer. This is your iPad’s polite way of saying, “Sorry, I’m not getting enough power here.” While there’s no harm in connecting your iPad this way, you shouldn’t expect your battery to fill up. For best results, always use the original Apple charger or a certified charging adapter plugged directly into a wall outlet—this will supply the iPad with the juice it needs to wake up fully energized.

If you only have access to a computer, try using a powered USB hub, as some can supply more current than standard laptop or desktop ports. However, for faster, more reliable charging, sticking with a good wall charger is your safest bet.

Why does my iPad show a “Not Charging” message when connected to a computer?

If you’ve ever plugged your iPad into a computer only to be greeted by a “Not Charging” message, you’re not alone. This usually happens because most computer USB ports simply don’t provide enough power for an iPad’s larger battery needs. While an iPhone might top up just fine from your laptop, iPads are a bit more demanding—they require more current than a standard USB port can supply.

You might notice that, even though the device is connected, the battery icon shows “Not Charging.” This is perfectly normal and won’t harm your iPad. It just means the computer’s USB port is supplying too little power to make a difference, especially if you’re using the device while it’s plugged in. For a proper charge, it’s always best to use the original Apple wall charger (or another certified, high-output charger) and plug directly into a wall outlet.

This simple switch can save you hours of frustration!

How can I back up my iPad before troubleshooting power issues?

Before you dive into fixing your iPad, it’s a smart idea to back up your data—just in case. Creating a backup ensures you won’t lose your photos, messages, apps, and settings if you need to restore or update the device. Here’s how you can do it, depending on your computer:

If you’re using a Windows PC or a Mac running macOS Mojave or earlier:

• Install or update iTunes to its latest version.
• Connect your iPad to your computer using a cable.
• Launch iTunes, find and select the iPad icon, then head to the “Summary” tab.
• Click on “Back Up Now” to start backing up your data.

If you have a Mac running macOS Catalina or later:

• Open the Finder and connect your iPad via cable.
• Your device will appear in the left sidebar—select it.
• Under the “General” tab, choose “Back up all of the data on your iPad to this Mac.”
• Click “Back Up Now” to save everything.
  Backing up is a simple yet crucial step before attempting any fixes, so if your iPad powers on—even briefly—be sure to safeguard your data now.

Once you have done the inspections for any possible hardware issue follow the steps below to fix your iPad not turning on issue. After completing each step check if your iPad is turning on or not.

1. Force restart your iPad

Software crash is the most common problem that happens to many users after update of their iPad or iPhone. In such cases performing a forced restart should help to fix the problem of iPad won’t turn on or charge. To do this follow the steps below:

For iPads with Home button,

i. Press and hold the Home button and Top button simultaneously;

ii. Release both buttons when the Apple logo appears;

For iPads without Home button,

i. Press and quickly release the Volume Up button;

ii. Press and quickly release the Volume Down button;

iii. Then press and hold the Top button until you see the Apple logo;

Hard resetting your iPad with iTunes

If force restarting your iPad doesn’t resolve the issue, you can try a hard reset using iTunes on your computer (for Windows or Macs with macOS Mojave or earlier). This process will restore your device to factory settings, so be aware that any unsaved data may be lost.

To perform a hard reset through iTunes:

1. Launch iTunes on your computer and connect your iPad using its USB cable.
2. If prompted, enter your device passcode or choose “Trust This Computer.”
3. In iTunes, click the iPad icon that appears near the top left.
4. Go to the “Summary” section in the sidebar.
5. Select Restore iPad, then confirm your choice. iTunes will download the latest software and complete the restoration.

After this process, your iPad should restart and display the familiar Apple logo—hopefully bringing your device back to life.

Back up your iPad with Finder on newer Macs

If you’re using a Mac with macOS Catalina or a more recent version, iTunes has been replaced by Finder for managing device backups. To make sure you don’t lose precious photos, documents, or app data while troubleshooting, it’s wise to create a backup.

Here’s how to back up your iPad with Finder:

1. Start by connecting your iPad to your Mac using a compatible charging cable.
2. Open the Finder window—you’ll see your iPad listed under “Locations” on the left sidebar.
3. Select your iPad. The main section will now display your device’s info.
4. Under the “General” tab, look for the “Back up all of the data on your iPad to this Mac” option and select it.
5. Click the “Back Up Now” button to begin the backup process.

Wait for Finder to finish the backup before you disconnect your device. This way, you’ll have a recent copy of all your iPad’s data safely stored on your computer, ready to restore if needed.

iPad stuck on the Apple logo during startup? Here’s what to do:

If your iPad powers on but gets frozen on the Apple logo, don’t panic—this is a fairly common issue. Usually, it’s caused by interrupted updates, corrupted files, or problematic apps. Here’s what you can try:

• Force restart your iPad: As described above, use the appropriate button combination for your model to force a restart. This can often shake your iPad free from the boot loop.
• Update or restore with Finder or iTunes: Connect your iPad to a Mac or PC and use Finder (macOS Catalina or later) or iTunes (Windows or macOS Mojave and earlier). Select your device and choose “Update” to try re-installing iPadOS without erasing your data. If that doesn’t work, you might need to select “Restore,” which will erase your device but can resolve stubborn problems.
• Third-party utilities: Programs like Tenorshare ReiBoot or Dr.Fone can sometimes fix stuck devices without data loss. Just be sure to use trusted software, and stick to well-reviewed options.

Recover your iPad using your computer

If your iPad stubbornly refuses to move past the Apple logo (or flashes a red or blue screen) during startup, you might need to give it a little extra help using your computer. Whether you’re a Mac or PC user, the following method often brings even the most stubborn iPad back to life:

1. Connect your iPad to your computer using a compatible cable.

>On newer Macs (macOS Catalina or later), use Finder.
>On older Macs (Mojave or earlier) or Windows PCs, open iTunes or a third-party utility like Tenorshare ReiBoot or Dr.Fone.

2. Locate your iPad on your computer:

>In Finder or iTunes, your iPad should appear in the sidebar or top menu.
>Third-party utilities will guide you through device detection once you launch their app.

3. Enter recovery mode:

• For iPads without a Home button:

Quickly press and release the Volume Up button, then the Volume Down button. Next, press and hold the Top button. Keep holding it even after the Apple logo appears, until you see the recovery mode screen on your iPad.

• For iPads with a Home button:

Press and hold both the Home button and the Top button at the same time. Don’t let go until you see the recovery mode screen—this can take a bit, so be patient.

4. When prompted on your computer, choose “Update” if available. This will try to reinstall the iPad’s software without erasing your data. If “Update” doesn’t resolve things, you may need to try “Restore” (just know this will erase your device).

5. If the recovery process takes more than 15 minutes and your iPad exits recovery mode, don’t worry—just repeat the steps above to re-enter recovery mode and try again.

Pro tip: Using reputable third-party tools can sometimes make this entire process more straightforward, especially if you’re running into repeated errors. Just stick to well-known, well-reviewed utilities to keep your data safe.

Check for software updates

If you’re still seeing the Apple logo after a force restart, it’s possible that your iPad’s software is out of date or encountering a bug that’s causing trouble. Updating your iPad can resolve a surprising number of issues—including startup and charging problems. Here’s how to check for and install updates:

1. Go to Settings on your iPad.
2. Tap General in the left column.
3. Tap Software Update. If a new update is available, tap Download and Install.

Installing the latest version of iPadOS can fix bugs or glitches that might be keeping your iPad stuck during startup.

Try updating your iPad using a Mac or PC

If your device is still unresponsive or stuck on the Apple logo, updating your iPad’s software via a computer can help resolve software bugs and get things running again. Here’s how:

1. Plug your iPad into your Mac or PC using a compatible cable.
2. For Macs running macOS Catalina or later, open Finder and select your iPad under “Locations” in the sidebar. For Windows PCs or older Macs (macOS Mojave or earlier), launch iTunes and click the iPad icon at the top left.
3. Click on “Check for Update” in the device summary window.
4. If an update is available, choose “Download and Update” and follow the on-screen instructions.

If your iPad doesn’t appear in Finder or iTunes, give it some time to charge before trying again. Sometimes a deeply discharged battery can prevent the device from showing up.

If your iPad remains stubbornly stuck on the Apple logo after trying these steps, it may be time to reach out to Apple Support or visit your nearest Apple Store for hands-on help.

2. Charge your iPad

At times drained battery leads to “iPad won’t turn on” problem. A device with a completely depleted battery will often not respond until the battery regains some life. Therefore, when you see your iPad not turning on the very first thing you should do is to make sure your iPad’s battery is charged enough to run the tablet. So connect your iPad to a wall outlet using the cable and charger that came with the device and let it charge for 15-30 minutes. This may turn on your iPad automatically with the Apple logo popping up, which means your iPad would start working normally.

If your iPad still shows a blank screen after being plugged in, don’t panic. Sometimes, it might take a few minutes—or even up to an hour—for the Apple logo to appear, especially if the battery was fully depleted. If nothing happens after an hour, try using a different USB cable or a different power outlet, just in case the issue lies with your charging accessories rather than the iPad itself.

However, even if the iPad turns on, it may still be low on power. So continue to charge until the battery is fully charged. Another thing that you need to check when iPad won’t turn on or charge is, the USB cable and the charger you are using. Many non-certified cables don’t work properly and your device might not be charging. Therefore, make sure that your charger and cable are Apple Certified (MFI) and working properly.

If you’re still having trouble getting your iPad to charge, take a close look at the charging port. Dust, lint, or debris can sometimes block the connection, so carefully inspect and clean the port if needed. Also, check for any signs of physical damage inside the port, as this could prevent your device from charging altogether.

It’s also important to thoroughly inspect your charging cable and adapter. An old cable is one of the most common reasons why an iPad does not charge. Examine the cable for any discoloration, nasty bending, or fraying on the cord or the connector. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to replace your cable with a new one. Even if your cable appears to be in good shape, it could still be faulty—sometimes the damage isn’t obvious. If you suspect this might be the case, try charging your iPad with a different cable and adapter. If your device starts charging or charges faster, you’ve likely found the culprit.

But don’t stop there—charging issues can be sneakier than they first appear. Carefully examine your charging cable for any signs of trouble. Look for discoloration, fraying, bends, or damage to the connector. Even if the cable looks fine, it could still be faulty. If you suspect a problem, try using a different cable to see if your iPad starts charging or charges faster. If it does, your original cable is likely the culprit.

Next, don’t forget about the power adapter itself. Since your charger is made up of two parts—a cable and an adapter—swap out the adapter with another one if you have it handy. If your iPad charges when plugged into a different adapter or a different wall outlet, the issue might lie with your original power adapter.

If you’re still having trouble getting your iPad to charge, take a close look at the charging port. Dust, lint, or debris can sometimes block the connection, so carefully inspect and clean the port if needed. Also, check for any signs of physical damage inside the port, as this could prevent your device from charging altogether.

Taking these steps ensures you cover the most common charging pitfalls before moving on to more advanced troubleshooting.

Check for Extreme Temperatures

Believe it or not, your iPad is a bit picky about the weather. If your iPad won’t charge, take a moment to consider its surroundings—Apple recommends using iPads in temperatures between 32°F and 95°F (0°C to 35°C). Anything too hot or too cold, and your device may simply refuse to charge, all in the name of protecting the battery.

If you discover your iPad is warm to the touch or has been sitting in direct sunlight (like on a car seat or windowsill), unplug it right away. Power it down, remove any case to let it breathe, and move it to a cooler spot out of the sun. The same goes for cold: if your iPad feels chilly after coming in from outside, let it come back to room temperature before you try charging again.

Charging should resume automatically once your iPad is back within its comfort zone. Patience is key—give it time to acclimate, and then plug it back in using your certified cable and charger. If it still refuses to charge after returning to a normal temperature, move on to the next troubleshooting steps.

Is it safe to charge an iPad with a computer USB port?

If you’re wondering whether you can safely charge your iPad by plugging it into your laptop or desktop’s USB port, the answer is generally yes—there’s no risk of damaging your device. However, there are a few details worth noting. Unlike iPhones, iPads require a higher charging current to power up efficiently. Most computer USB ports, especially older ones, simply don’t supply enough juice to charge an iPad at a reasonable speed. In some cases, your iPad might display a “Not Charging” message, or it may barely gain any battery at all.

For the best results (and to actually see that battery percentage climb), stick with the Apple-certified charger and cable that came with your iPad and plug it directly into a wall outlet. Not only does this ensure safe and consistent charging, but it also gets you back up and running much faster than relying on your computer.

If you have no choice but to use your computer, make sure it’s plugged in and awake, and don’t be surprised if charging is slow or stalls altogether. But rest assured, this won’t harm your iPad—you might just need to be very patient.

You may also like to read this post: Why my iPad won’t charge – here’re 7 proven solutions 

3. Restore with iTunes

Apart from other functions, iTunes can be used to back up or restore an iOS device as well, which can help to fix several issues related to your iPad. In order to fix the “iPad not turning on” issue with iTunes, follow the steps below:

Backing up your iPad with iTunes:

If you’re using a PC or a Mac running macOS Mojave or earlier, you’ll want to make sure you have the latest version of iTunes installed before you start. Open iTunes, then connect your iPad to your computer using a cable. Once connected, click the iPad icon in the upper-left corner of the iTunes window. From there, go to the Summary section and click Back Up Now to create a fresh backup of your device.

Restoring your iPad with iTunes:

i. Connect your iPad to your computer and launch iTunes (make sure that you are using an updated version of iTunes). iTunes will automatically recognize your iPad;
ii. Select your device and go to its summary page and click on ‘Restore Backup’;
iii. Then click the ‘Restore’ button in the pop-up window;
iv. Wait for a while as iTunes restores your iPad;

Following these steps can often resolve stubborn software issues and get your iPad back up and running.

4. Put your iPad into Recovery Mode

If you are not able to fix the ‘iPad won’t turn on’ problem by trying the above solutions, you can next try to resolve the issue by taking the assistance of iTunes while putting your iPad into Recovery mode. This has been found to be a useful method in dealing with different errors on Apple devices. Here’re the steps to follow to fix the problem with the help of iTunes by entering Recovery Mode:

 For iPad with the Home button

i. Connect your iPad to your computer using the USB/lightning cable to it;

 ii. Press and hold down the Top and Home buttons simultaneously and keep holding them until you see the Recovery mode screen;

iii. Once iTunes detects your device, you will get a message giving the option to Restore or Update. To fix the “iPad not turning on” issue, select ‘Restore’ and let the software complete the restore process;

For iPad without the Home button

i. Connect your iPad to your computer;

ii. Press and quickly release the ‘Volume Up’ button;

iii. Next press and quickly release the ‘Volume Down’ button;

iv. Now, press and hold down the Top button until the device begins to restart and enters recovery mode;

v. Once iTunes detects your device it will analyze the error and display a message prompting you to Restore or Update. Select ‘Restore’ and let the software complete the restore process;

Additional Tips for Recovery Mode

• If your iPad screen stays black or you can’t see anything, don’t worry—just keep holding the necessary buttons until the recovery mode screen appears (you should see an image of a cable pointing toward a computer).
• Make sure your computer is running the latest version of iTunes if you’re on a PC or a Mac with macOS Mojave or earlier. If you’re using macOS Catalina or later, open Finder instead.
• When prompted during the process, always choose Restore to erase your device and download the latest software. Leave your iPad connected while the software downloads and installs—this can take several minutes.
• Once your iPad restarts, it should be back to factory settings, allowing you to set it up as new or restore a backup if you have one.

Using recovery mode can resolve even stubborn issues like being locked out after too many passcode attempts or system errors that prevent a normal startup.

What to Do If Recovery Mode Times Out

Sometimes, if your computer takes longer than 15 minutes to download the needed software, your iPad may exit recovery mode before the process is finished. If this happens, don’t panic—it’s more common than you might think! Simply allow your device to power off, then repeat the relevant steps above to place your iPad back into recovery mode. Once you see the recovery mode screen again, you can restart the restore process from where you left off.

Using recovery mode can resolve even stubborn issues like being locked out after too many passcode attempts or system errors that prevent a normal startup.

5. Put your iPad into DFU mode

If your iPad wont turn on even after trying the above solutions, as a last resort you can put your iPad into DFU Mode. DFU stands for Device Firmware Update. This mode is usually used when a device updates to a new version of iOS. Nonetheless, the DFU Mode can also be used to resolve persisting technical issues like the one above and get your device back into working order.

There is one important thing that you need to take note of before using DFU mode restore. If your iPad is damaged in any way, especially if it is water-damaged, then a DFU restore may break or permanently damage your iPad.  Therefore, make sure before putting your device into this mode that your device has not incurred any physical damage.

To put your iPad into DFU mode, follow the steps below:

For iPads with the Home button:

Step 1: Just like in the previous method, connect your iPad to the computer and open iTunes. Ensure you have the latest version of iTunes;

Step 2: Press the Home button and the Power button simultaneously;

Step 3: Hold down the buttons for 10 seconds after the screen goes black;

Step 4: Next, slowly release the power button while still pressing the Home button for another 10-15 seconds until your iPad shows up in iTunes;

Step 5: Release the Home button once you see your iPad in iTunes then follow the on-screen instructions to start restoring your iPad through iTunes;

For iPads without the Home button:

Step 1: Connect your iPad to the computer and open iTunes;

Step 2: Press and quickly release the Volume up button;

Step 3: Press and quickly release the Volume down button;

Step 4: Press and hold the Side button (Power button) until the screen turns black;

Step 5: After the screen goes black, while holding down the Side button press and hold the Volume down button for 5 seconds;

Step 6: After about 5 seconds release the Side button but keep holding the Volume down button until your iPad shows up in iTunes (If your iPad shows a screen telling you to connect the device to iTunes, retry these steps);

Step 7: Release the Volume down button once you see your iPad in iTunes then follow the on-screen instructions to start restoring your iPad through iTunes;

Step 8: To exit DFU mode, quickly press the Volume Up button, then quickly press the Volume Down button, then hold down the Side button until the device reboots;

Frequently asked questions

Before I conclude let me also address some of the queries often made by iPad users when their iPad will not turn on or charge.

Why is my iPad black and my iPad won’t turn on?

If your iPad screen is black and iPad is not turning on, this is called “iPad black screen of death”. This may be a sign of software crash or drained battery.

But let’s dig a little deeper: Sometimes, the issue is as simple as a fully drained battery or a minor software glitch. Other times, though, it could be much more. A damaged screen, broken buttons, or faulty internal components—often the result of physical or water damage—might be the root cause behind your iPad refusing to power up. These kinds of hardware issues typically call for repair or even part replacement.

On the software side, a force restart or update might be all you need to get things back on track. However, if your iPad remains unresponsive, more advanced solutions like Recovery Mode, DFU Mode, or even a factory reset may be necessary. Charging problems also pop up pretty frequently and are usually hardware-related—think clogged charging ports or worn-out cables—but sometimes, a software hiccup is to blame.

A hard reset can fix if your iPad has a software crash.

How do I force my iPad to restart?

To force restart your iPad press and hold any of the volume buttons and the Top button simultaneously until the power off slider appears. Drag the slider and wait 30 seconds for your device to turn off. To turn your device back on, press and hold the Top button until you see the Apple logo.

If your iPad screen is black or frozen

Depending on your iPad model, the force restart steps are slightly different:

On iPad without a Home button

• Press and quickly release the volume button closest to the Top button.
• Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the Top button.
• Press and hold the Top button until you see the device begin to restart.

On iPad with a Home button

• Press and hold both the Home button and the Top button at the same time.
• Keep holding until you see the Apple logo.

Still not turning on?

• If your iPad doesn’t turn on after these steps, check the hardware and connect it to a charger. Sometimes it may need up to an hour to charge enough to power on.
• If the screen remains black or unresponsive even after this, you might need to look into further troubleshooting or contact support.

Why did my iPad suddenly go black?

Generally, your iPad screen may suddenly go black which is also called iPad black screen of death, because of a software crash. A hard reset can temporarily fix if your iPad experiences a software crash.

Is the black screen of death permanent?

The iPad Black Screen of Death is usually caused by a software crash which can often be repaired. Black screens may also be the result of a more serious hardware problem that may require replacement of the device component. However, there is almost always a solution to this problem.

What is a hard reset (Factory Reset) on an iPad and when Should I use it?

A hard reset—also referred to as a factory reset—is a process that restores your iPad to its original settings, erasing all your personal data, apps, photos, and customizations along the way. Think of it as giving your device a fresh start, just like when it first came out of the box. It’s not something you want to do lightly, as all your content will be wiped, so always back up anything important beforehand.

But when should you actually consider a hard reset? Typically, it’s the last step in your troubleshooting playbook. If your iPad refuses to turn on or all other solutions (like charging, force restarting, or attempting a DFU mode restore) have failed, then a factory reset might be worth trying before seeking professional help. Just be aware: any existing issues from physical or water damage won’t be fixed by a reset.

In summary, if your iPad won’t turn on or charge, first check for obvious hardware issues—like visible damage or a dirty charging port—and try a different cable or outlet. For software-related issues, a force restart or factory reset can often do the trick. And remember, there’s almost always a solution—sometimes it just takes a bit of troubleshooting to get your iPad shining bright again.

How to Perform a Factory Reset
You can initiate a hard reset in a few ways, depending on your setup:

• Using a Computer (iTunes or Finder): Connect your iPad to your computer with a cable. On Macs running macOS Catalina or newer, use Finder; on PCs or older Macs, use iTunes. Once connected, locate your device and follow the prompts to restore or reset your iPad.

For Macs withmacOS Catalinaor later:

1. • 1. Open Finder, then connect your iPad to your computer.
     2. Enter your passcode if prompted.
     3. Click on your device under Locations in the Finder’s left sidebar.
     4. Click General at the top.
     5. Select Restore iPad, then confirm by clicking Restore again.
        This will erase your device and install the latest iPadOS, returning it to factory settings.

For PCs or Macs withmacOS Mojaveor earlier:

1. 1. Open iTunes and connect your iPad.
   2. Select your device when it appears.
   3. Choose Restore iPad and follow the prompts.

These methods will wipe your iPad clean, so double-check that you have a backup before moving forward.

• Via iCloud (Find My iPad enabled): If you’ve got Find My iPad set up, log in at iCloud.com, locate your device, and select the option to erase it remotely.To break it down step-by-step:
  1. Go to and sign in with your Apple ID.
  2. Click on the Find iPhone icon (don’t worry, it works for iPads too).
  3. In the All Devices dropdown at the top, select your iPad.
  4. Click Erase iPad to remotely wipe all content and settings.
  5. Just follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

  This is especially handy if you can’t access your iPad directly, but still want to give it a fresh start or securely erase your info before handing it off to someone else.

• On the Device (if it’s responsive): If your iPad is turning on but acting strange, you can use the Settings app under General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings.

Remember, a hard reset wipes everything—so make sure you really need to go down this road before proceeding. And don’t forget to keep a backup handy for smoother recovery!

You may also like to read this post: iPhone not turning on or charging – here’re 5 proven fixes to try

Conclusion

It is found that the steps suggested in the article help in most cases to resolve the “iPad not turning on” issue. However, if none of the above solutions can resolve the issue and your iPad won’t turn on, it may have a hardware failure that needs repair. In such case, your best chance to get your device working again is to contact Apple Support for help and instructions if you don’t have an Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider nearby.