iPad or Tablet Slow? How to Speed It Up

Tablets often become the family device. They get passed between kids and grandparents, loaded with games and streaming apps, and kept for years. Somewhere along the way, apps take forever to open, the keyboard lags behind your typing, and videos stutter.

A slow tablet can usually be sped up without buying a new one. Here's what we recommend at We Fix Phones N More, starting with the easiest fixes and working up.

Why Tablets Slow Down

Most slowdowns come from a few common causes:

• Storage that's nearly full, leaving little room for temporary files and updates
• Apps that have grown larger and more demanding over the years
• Outdated software with bugs that have already been fixed
• A worn battery, which can cause the system to run more slowly to avoid shutdowns
• Hardware damage from a drop or spill

Step One: Restart and Update

Restart it

Many tablets go weeks without a true restart. Turning it fully off and back on clears temporary glitches and frees up memory. On an iPad with Face ID or Touch ID in the top button, press and hold the top button and either volume button until the power-off slider appears. On an iPad with a Home button, hold the top button. On most Android tablets, press and hold the power button (or the side key on Samsung) and tap Restart.

Install software updates

Updates often include fixes for bugs and performance problems. On an iPad, go to Settings, then General, then Software Update. On a Samsung tablet, go to Settings, then Software update. On other Android tablets, look under Settings, then System, then Software updates. Plug the tablet in and connect to Wi-Fi before you start.

Update your apps

An outdated app can freeze or use more resources than it should. Open the App Store or Google Play Store and install any pending updates.

Step Two: Free Up Storage

A tablet that's nearly full has less room to work. On an iPad, check Settings, then General, then iPad Storage to see which apps and files take the most space. On Android, go to Settings, then Storage (on Samsung, Settings, then Battery and device care, then Storage).

• Delete games and apps nobody uses anymore, or offload them on an iPad to keep their data.
• Remove downloaded movies and shows you've already watched.
• Back up photos and videos, then clear them off the tablet if you don't need them there.

Our post on freeing up storage on your phone walks through the same ideas in more detail, and most of it applies to tablets too.

Step Three: Cut Down on Background Work

Close what's misbehaving

You don't need to close every app all the time, but if one app is frozen or acting strangely, closing and reopening it can help. Dozens of open browser tabs can also slow things down, so close the ones you don't need.

Limit background activity

On an iPad, go to Settings, then General, then Background App Refresh and turn it off for apps that don't need it. On Android, open an app's settings and limit its battery or background use. Samsung tablets also have an Optimize now button under Battery and device care.

Clear app cache on Android

Go to Settings, then Apps, choose a slow app, open Storage, and tap Clear cache. That removes temporary files without deleting your account or saved data. Avoid Clear data or Clear storage unless you're ready to sign in and set the app up again.

Step Four: Reset Settings Before Anything Drastic

If the tablet is still sluggish, a settings reset can undo odd configuration problems. On an iPad, go to Settings, then General, then Transfer or Reset iPad, then Reset, and choose Reset All Settings. Your apps, photos and files stay put, but Wi-Fi passwords and preferences go back to default. On Android, look under Settings, then General management (Samsung) or System, then Reset options.

A full erase is the last resort. Only do it after a complete backup, and ask for help if you're not sure your photos and files are safe.

When It's More Than Software

Sometimes slowness is a symptom of a hardware problem. Have the tablet checked if you notice:

• A screen that misses taps, registers touches on its own, or lags only in certain spots
• Random shutdowns or a battery that drains far faster than it used to
• A bulging case or a screen lifting from the frame. This can mean a swollen battery, so stop charging it and bring it in.
• Charging that only works at certain cable angles
• Problems that started after a drop or spill

We handle iPad repair and tablet repair for many brands. Most iPad repairs take 2 to 3 hours, other tablets typically take 24 to 48 hours, and our repairs carry a 90-day warranty.

Is it just too old?

Very old tablets eventually stop getting software updates, and newer apps may stop supporting them. It may still be fine for reading or video, but it might be time to upgrade for everyday use. We Fix Phones N More buys and sells devices, so ask us about your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will resetting all settings delete my photos?

No. Reset All Settings on an iPad keeps your apps, photos and files. It only resets things like Wi-Fi networks, display and privacy preferences.

Can a weak battery make a tablet slow?

Yes. A worn battery can cause lag, sudden shutdowns and short run times. A battery replacement often makes an older tablet feel much better.

How long does a tablet repair take?

Most iPad repairs are done in 2 to 3 hours. Other tablets usually take 24 to 48 hours, depending on parts.

Do I need to close apps all the time?

No. Both iPadOS and Android manage background apps well. Only close an app if it's frozen or misbehaving.

Bring It By in Horsham

If you've tried these steps and your tablet still drags, visit We Fix Phones N More at 801 County Line Rd, Horsham, PA 19044, or call 215-323-4750. We'll take a look and tell you honestly whether it needs a repair, a tune-up, or a retirement plan.