Scottish Owned, 100% British Based WhatsApp Us Book a Repair

iPad Not Charging? A Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

iPad2 min readMrFix Edinburgh

Key takeaways

  • iPads need a more powerful charger than phones
  • Try another cable and socket
  • Clean lint gently with a wooden toothpick
  • Fast drain points to the battery; a loose cable points to the port

An iPad that will not charge, charges very slowly or shows “Not Charging” in the status bar usually has a simple cause. Work through these checks in order.

1. Use the right charger

iPads need more power than phones. A small phone charger or a computer USB port may not be enough, especially while you are using the iPad. Use the charger that came with it, or one with a similar power rating.

2. Try another cable and socket

Damaged cables are the most common cause. Try a different cable and wall socket before anything else.

3. Check the port

Shine a torch into the Lightning or USB-C port. If you see lint, power the iPad off and remove it very gently with a wooden toothpick. Never use metal.

4. Restart and update

Force restart the iPad and make sure iPadOS is up to date. Apple’s iPad support pages have model-specific steps.

5. Let it charge for an hour

If the battery is completely flat, the iPad may show nothing for a while. Leave it on a known-good charger for at least an hour.

Battery or charging port?

  • Charges but drains fast or dies suddenly: likely the battery. See signs your iPad battery needs replacing.
  • Cable is loose or only works at an angle: likely the charging port.
  • Nothing at all with several chargers: needs a diagnosis.

Getting it repaired

We repair iPad charging ports, batteries and screens. Find your model on our iPad repair page.

Frequently asked questions

Why does my iPad say “Not Charging”?

Usually because the charger does not provide enough power, for example a computer USB port or small phone plug. Try the original iPad charger.

How long does a dead iPad take to show charging?

A fully drained iPad may need up to an hour on a good charger before it shows anything.

Is it the battery or the charging port?

If the iPad charges but drains quickly, it is likely the battery. If the cable is loose or only works at an angle, it is likely the port.

Need a hand?

Visit our Home Street or Corstorphine store, book online, or check the areas we cover. We check the fault first and you see the price before any work begins.

How to Make Your Phone Battery Last Longer: 10 Practical Tips

How to Make Your Phone Battery Last Longer: 10 Practical Tips

Cracked Apple Watch Screen? Your Repair Options Explained

Cracked Apple Watch Screen? Your Repair Options Explained

Laptop Overheating? Causes, Fixes and When to Get Help

Laptop Overheating? Causes, Fixes and When to Get Help

Selling or Recycling Your Old Phone in Edinburgh: A Safe Guide

Selling or Recycling Your Old Phone in Edinburgh: A Safe Guide

MacBook Won’t Turn On? What to Try Before a Repair

MacBook Won’t Turn On? What to Try Before a Repair

Swollen Phone Battery: Warning Signs and What to Do

Swollen Phone Battery: Warning Signs and What to Do

Get in touch