4 Working Ways To Fix iPad Stuck In Recovery Mode [Proven Guide]

“I was transferring photos from my iPad, when it crashed mid-transfer. Now I can neither access my photos or use my iDevice anymore as my iPad is stuck in recovery mode, after I tried to put it there.

If your iPad is also stuck in purgatory aka recovery mode, before you panic or start searching for an expensive solution, read our 5 proven solutions. This post also shares the reasons your iPad might get stuck in recovery mode and some bonus tips to prevent this issue from happening again in future.

Part 1: Understanding iPad’s Recovery Mode

Recovery mode on an iPad is a special state that allows you to restore its software using a computer. It’s useful if your iDevice won’t start normally due to a software problem. However, if your iPad is stuck in recovery mode and won’t restore it could be due to many reasons such as:

Wrong Button Presses – Different iPad models have different button combinations to enter and exit recovery mode. Using wrong sequence can leave your phone stuck.
Software Problems – Corrupted software during an update or bugs in operating system can prevent your iPad from restarting properly.
Computer Issues – Outdated iTunes or Apple Devices apps on your computer can cause problems during restore process.
Hardware Issues – Although rare, damaged hardware like power button or internal cables might stop an iPad from exiting recovery mode.
Jailbreaking Risks – Using non-Apple software can increase chances of getting stuck in Recovery mode.
Battery Issues – A low or failing battery during an update can trigger Recovery mode as a safety measure to restore iPevice.

Part 2: 5 Working Ways to Fix iPad Stuck in Recovery Mode Without Restoring

You can get your iPad out of recovery mode with 5 proven ways mentioned below. Each method is for a different situation and might not work in all scenarios. So, make sure the solution you’ve chosen is designed to solve your ‘iPad recovery mode’ problem. However, most of these methods will result in data loss so back up your iPad data before trying them out:

1. Get iPad Out Of Recovery Mode Without Data Loss-[Free]

Want to fix ‘iPad stuck in recovery mode and won’t restore’ without data loss? Try Tenorshare ReiBoot, the best iOS repair tool for getting iPad out of recovery mode in one click. It fixes iOS issues like black/white screen, stuck on Apple logo, in boot loop, etc without data loss. Check out more details about this tool:

Fixes system rags, software and OS bugs and battery drain problem.
Repair 150 + iOS issues, and enables to enter or exit recovery mode with one click.
Erase data permanently on iOS devices before selling or giving them away.
Repair iTunes errors, and upgrade/downgrade iOS including Betas without jailbreak/rooting.

Here’s how to get out of recovery mode on iPad with aid of Tenorshare ReiBoot:

Step 1: Download, install and run Tenorshare ReiBoot on your computer.

Step 2: Connect your iPad to your computer. Then, select “Exit” under “Recovery Mode” on ReiBoot. Wait for your iPad to get out of recovery mode.

2. Fix iPad Stuck in Recovery Mode via Force Restart-[Low Success Rate]

Often, force restarting can fix iPad stuck in restore mode by shutting down all running processes and clearing temporary files, which can sometimes become corrupted and cause issues. It also restarts essential background services that, if stuck in a loop, might keep your iPad in recovery mode. Unlike a full restore, a force restart doesn’t erase any data. Here are steps for performing it on your iPad depending on your iDevice’s model:

For iPads with a Home Button:

Simultaneously press the “Power button” and “Home button” for a few seconds until the Apple logo displays, initiating the force restart process.

For iPads without a Home Button:

Press and release the “Volume-Up button” followed by the “Volume-Down button” separately.

Then, press and hold the “Power button” until the Apple logo appears on the screen.

3. Get iPad Out Of Recovery Mode With iTunes-[Data Loss]

You can restore your iPad with iTunes. This will download a new iOS version and replaces existing one, fixing any corrupted files or bugs leading to iPad stuck in recovery mode loop. To restore your iPad with iTunes, follow steps below:

Step 1: Connect your iPad to your computer and open iTunes/Finder.

Step 2: When prompted, choose “Restore iPad.” Tap “Restore” again to confirm and wait patiently for restoration to complete.

Cons:

This will clear away all data on your iPad.
You’ll need a backup to apply this method.

4. Contact Apple Store-[Expensive]

If still your iPad will not come out of recovery mode then check support.apple.com/iPad/restore. This is the official Apple Support page that offers instructions for restoring your iPad. If that doesn’t work, you’ll have to contact Apple Store. They may charge a service fee to diagnose and fix recovery mode issue which will vary based on warranty status of your iPad and complexity of problem.

Cons:

If your iPad is out of warranty and needs hardware repairs, you’ll also have to cover repair costs, which can be expensive.

Bonus Tips: How to Avoid iPad Stuck in Recovery Mode Again

If you want to avoid getting your iPad stuck in restore mode, here are some preventative measures you must take:

Update Software – Keep your iPad’s software up-to-date to avoid bugs and glitches.
Update iTunes/Apple Devices App – Use latest version of iTunes (macOS Mojave or earlier) or Apple Devices app (macOS Catalina and later) to avoid compatibility issues.
Make Backups – Regularly back up your iPad using iCloud or iTunes to prevent data loss.
Avoid Unofficial Software – Don’t use third-party software or jailbreak your iPad to reduce risk of software instability.
Careful During Updates – Avoid interrupting your iPad during updates or while connected to iTunes/Apple Devices app.
Use a Reliable Power Source – Ensure your iPad has enough battery life during updates or restores to prevent interruptions.
Handle with Care – Avoid physical damage to your iPad, especially to buttons and lightning port.

The Bottom Line

If your iPad gets stuck in recovery mode loop, this guide explained its causes, from incorrect button presses to hardware issues, and provided 5 solutions to fix this issue. Among these, Tenorshare ReiBoot is the best option as it repairs 150+ minor to major iOS issues, including iPad stuck in recovery mode, without data loss.