Why My iPad Not Charging When Plugged in & How to Fix

“My iPad Air with iOS 10.2.1 says that it is ‘Not Charging’ when it is plugged in. It is charging, albeit slowly. Using original Apple hardware and lighting cable.” – Someone posted in Apple Discussion.

Author Avatar Joy Taylor Last Updated: May. 10, 2024

AnyFix iOS System Repair

Your iPad doesn’t charge when plugged into a computer with USB cable? Download AnyFix to repair iPad not charging issues when plugged into a computer. Get your iPad connected and charged smoothly with a USB connection.

Many iPad users have encountered a perplexing issue: their device does not charge when plugged into a computer. This frustrating problem can disrupt your workflow or entertainment, leaving you scrambling for a solution. If you are encountering the issues too, you can check the reasons and learn how to fix iPad not charging when plugged into a computer in 6 ways.

Why Does My iPad Not Charging When Plugged in?

When you connect your iPad to a computer and it fails to charge, several factors could be at play:

  • Insufficient Power Supply: Most USB ports on older computers do not supply enough power to charge an iPad effectively.
  • Faulty or Incompatible USB Cable: USB cables that are not MFi-certified (Made for iPhone/iPad) often fail to meet the power requirements of iPad devices.
  • Software Glitches: Occasionally, software issues within the iPad can prevent it from recognizing or accepting a charge from a computer.
  • Dirty or Damaged USB Ports: Both the computer’s USB port and the iPad’s charging port can accumulate dust or debris that impede the connection.
  • System Settings: Certain settings or pending software updates can affect charging capabilities.

How to Fix iPad Not Charging When Plugged in

1. Change the USB Port

Sometimes, the USB port you currently plugged in may not be suitable for your iPad. Then your iPad won’t charge when plugged into a computer. In this case, switch to another USB port on your computer. Preferably, use a USB 3.0 port as they provide more power compared to USB 2.0 ports.

You may also like: How to unlock iPhone to use accessories

2. Use Another USB Cable

Besides the USB cable, the iPad not charging when plugged in issue can be caused by a faulty cable. The cable is not compatible with the computer. Then you should try a different USB cable, ensuring it is MFi-certified. Non-certified cables might not only fail to charge your iPad but could potentially damage it.

Use an Apple-certified Charging Cable

Use an Apple-certified Charging Cable

3. Clean the USB Port

Too much dust or a wet USB port will influence the connection and function when an iPad is plugged in. Carefully clean out the USB ports on both your computer and iPad. Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove any dust or debris.

4. Force Restart the iPad

If the above change or clean operations do nothing about fixing iPad not charging when plugged in, you can try to do something about the iPad system. Sometimes, a simple force restart can resolve charging issues.

For iPads with a Home button (such as the iPad, iPad Air, iPad mini up to the 3rd generation, and iPad Pro models up to 2017):

Press and hold both the Home button and the top (or side) button until you see the Apple logo.

For iPads without a Home button (such as the iPad Pro models from 2018 onward, iPad Air 4th generation and later, and iPad mini 5th generation and later):

  • Press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
  • Press and quickly release the Volume Down button.
  • Press and hold the top button until the device begins to restart. Hold the top button until the iPad reboots and the Apple logo appears.

Make sure to hold the buttons long enough; the restart process sometimes takes a few seconds to initiate.

You can learn the full guide on how to force restart an iPad for better understanding.

5. Fix iPad System with AnyFix

If the issue persists, it might be due to a system glitch. Using an iOS system repair tool can be a better choice to fix iPad not charging when plugged in. AnyFix is pretty useful to fix iOS system issues. It works great in fixing iPad boot loop, iPad black screen and more iPadOS problems. You can check the full features of AnyFix iOS system repair below:

  • Fix 150+ system issues for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Apple TV.
  • Repair 200+iTunes errors in easy steps.
  • Dedicated iPad system fixes for better user experience.
  • Repair iPadOS without losing data.

Follow the steps to fix iPad not charging when plugged in with AnyFix:

Step 1. Download and install AnyFix on your computer.

Free Download

Free Download

* 100% Clean & Safe

Free Download * 100% Clean & Safe

Step 2. Launch AnyFix and choose System Repair. Then use a USB cable to connect AnyFix to your computer.

AnyFix System Repair Option

AnyFix System Repair Option

Step 3. Choose Device Bug and click Start Now.

AnyFix System Repair Device Bug

AnyFix System Repair Device Bug

Step 4. Choose Standard Repair to fix this issue without losing data.

AnyFix Standard Repair

AnyFix Standard Repair

Then follow the instructions to finish the system fix in AnyFix.

Repair Is Completed

Repair Is Completed

6. Contact Apple Support

Besides the above methods for fixing iPad system accordingly, you can also contact Apple Support to check if it’s a hardware-related problem. They will give you some suggestions and fixes about repairing iPad not charging when plugged into a computer.

FAQs About iPad Not Charging When Plugged in

1. How do I know if my iPad charging port is damaged?

Signs of a damaged charging port include difficulty connecting the charging cable, the cable not fitting securely, or visible debris or damage inside the port.

2. How do I force my iPad to charge?

You cannot “force” an iPad to charge if it’s not responding to the power source. However, troubleshooting with the above steps can help resolve most charging issues.

Conclusion

When your iPad is not charging while plugged into a computer, it can be due to various reasons from insufficient power supply to faulty USB cables or even system glitches. This guide has walked you through several troubleshooting steps like changing USB ports, using a different cable, and using specialized software like AnyFix to fix iPadOS and help your iPad charge normally when plugged in. Download AnyFix now and fix iPad charging issues easily and safely.

Free Download

Free Download

* 100% Clean & Safe

Free Download * 100% Clean & Safe

Author Avatar
Joy Taylor Twitter Share Facebook Share

Senior writer of the iMobie team as well as an Apple fan, love to help more users solve various types of iOS & Android-related issues.

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