iPad Buttons Not Working? Causes and Solutions

It’s frustrating when your iPad’s buttons suddenly stop responding. Whether it’s the home button, the side volume controls, or the power button, these physical inputs are essential for the everyday use of your device.

Before you assume the worst, there are several possible causes and just as many potential fixes. This guide explains why iPad buttons stop working and what you can do to troubleshoot the issue, whether it’s software-related, a case problem, or a hardware concern. 

We'll also show you how to keep using your iPad even if the buttons remain unresponsive. Let’s go!

Why Are My iPad Buttons Not Working?

There are a few common reasons why your iPad buttons might not be working. One frequent cause is software glitches, particularly after an iPadOS update. Sometimes, a temporary system bug can interfere with how the buttons function, making them feel slow or completely unresponsive.

Another possible reason is a hardware issue. Over time, dust, dirt, or moisture can build up around the edges of the buttons, physically blocking them from registering your input. In other cases, the buttons may wear down from regular use, especially on older devices.

Case interference is another factor to consider. If your iPad case is too tight, not properly aligned, or not designed for your specific model, it might be pressing against the buttons and preventing them from working correctly. Removing or adjusting the case can sometimes fix the iPad power button immediately.

Looking for an iPad case that fits perfectly? Check out our premium iPad cases.

How to Fix Unresponsive iPad Buttons

Try these troubleshooting steps to restore button functionality:

Restart Your iPad (If You Can)

Sometimes, a simple restart clears up temporary software glitches. If your power button is still responsive, try restarting your iPad as usual. If all buttons are unresponsive, skip to the AssistiveTouch section below.

Update Your iPad

If your iPad buttons stopped working after a software update, it could be a temporary glitch that Apple has already patched. To check for updates:

• Open Settings

• Tap General

• Select Software Update

• If an update is available, follow the prompts to install it.

Restart your device after updating, and check the buttons again.

Remove or Adjust the Case

Your iPad case might be to blame, especially if it’s new or wasn’t designed specifically for your model. Remove the case completely and test the buttons. If they start working again, it’s time for a better-fitting, non-obstructive case. To ensure you have the correct case for your specific iPad, enter your model number on the ZUGU site to see all compatible iPad cases.

Clean the Buttons Gently

If dirt or grime has built up around the buttons, it could interfere with their movement. Use a soft, dry cloth or a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean around the buttons. Avoid liquids or abrasive tools, as these can cause more harm than good.

You’d be surprised how often this simple step resolves the issue, especially for iPads used in dusty environments or handled frequently without a case.

Using AssistiveTouch When Physical Buttons Don’t Work

If your buttons are completely unresponsive, you can still control your iPad using AssistiveTouch, a built-in feature that creates a floating on-screen menu for key functions like volume, Home, and lock.

To enable AssistiveTouch:

• Go to Settings

• Tap Accessibility

• Select Touch

• Tap AssistiveTouch and toggle it on.

Once activated, a virtual button will appear on your screen. Tap it to access controls like Home, Volume Up/Down, Lock Screen, or even Restart without the need for physical buttons.

This is especially useful if your iPad home button is not working or if you're unable to press the power button to restart.

How to Force Restart an iPad Without Buttons

Your iPad may freeze and require a force restart even when physical buttons aren’t available. If AssistiveTouch is already enabled, use it to restart the device.

To force a restart using AssistiveTouch:

• Tap the AssistiveTouch button

• Select Device

• Press and hold Lock Screen

• When the “slide to power off” screen appears, power off

• Once off, plug the iPad into a charger to power it back on.

This workaround helps when you can’t physically press the Power or Home button but still need to reset your iPad.

Can Software Updates Affect Button Functionality?

Yes, especially immediately after an iOS or iPadOS update. If your iPad's side buttons stopped working after an update, it may be due to a temporary software bug. Restarting the device often helps; if not, another software patch may be released soon.

When to Contact Apple Support

If your iPad buttons remain unresponsive after troubleshooting, it might be time to contact Apple Support or visit an authorized Apple service center. This is especially important if more than one button has stopped working, as that could indicate a deeper hardware issue. If your iPad has been exposed to water or dropped recently, internal damage could affect the buttons. Additionally, if your device is still under warranty or covered by AppleCare+, it's a good idea to take advantage of that support before attempting any further fixes on your own.

Once you regain control of the buttons, you may realize the issue goes beyond button functionality. If your iPad is stuck on the Apple logo or another frozen screen, troubleshoot with our guide on how to fix iPad freezing.

How to Avoid iPad Power Button Issues

An unresponsive button doesn’t have to mean the end of your iPad’s usability. Regardless of the cause, there are plenty of ways to troubleshoot the problem and even work around it with features like AssistiveTouch.

To help prevent these issues in the future, invest in a well-designed iPad case that protects your device without obstructing the buttons. Our premium cases are precision-fitted and drop-tested, so your iPad stays safe and functional no matter how often you use it. Correct case maintenance can also prevent buildup in the button cavity, and our specially formulated case wipes and microfiber cloth eliminate dirt and dust, keeping your ZUGU case feeling as good as new.

Find the best ZUGU case for your iPad today!