If your iPad Pro feels slow, an app keeps freezing, the screen becomes unresponsive, or something simply isn’t working correctly, learning how to reset iPad Pro can be one of the easiest ways to get things back on track. A reset can mean different things depending on what you are trying to accomplish. Sometimes, you only need a normal restart. In other situations, you may need to force restart the iPad Pro or perform a complete factory reset.

The good news is that most iPad Pro problems can be addressed without immediately erasing your personal data.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to reset iPad Pro step by step, including normal restarting, force restarting a frozen device, resetting settings, and factory resetting your iPad Pro. We’ll also explain when each method is appropriate, what happens to your data, and what you should do before performing a complete reset.

Table of Contents

Quick Answer: How Do You Reset an iPad Pro?

For most iPad Pro models without a Home button:

Press and hold the Top button and either Volume button.
Keep holding until the power-off slider appears.
Drag the slider to turn off the iPad.
Wait about 30 seconds.
Press and hold the Top button until the Apple logo appears.

If your iPad Pro is frozen and the normal shutdown method doesn’t work, perform a force restart:

Quickly press and release the Volume button closest to the Top button.
Quickly press and release the other Volume button.
Press and hold the Top button.
Release the Top button when the Apple logo appears.

A force restart does not normally erase your data.

What Does Resetting an iPad Pro Mean?

The word “reset” can be confusing because Apple devices offer several different reset-related options.

Think of them as different levels of troubleshooting.

Reset Type	What It Does	Deletes Personal Data?
Normal restart	Turns iPad off and back on	No
Force restart	Restarts an unresponsive iPad	No
Reset all settings	Restores settings to defaults	No personal files
Erase all content and settings	Returns iPad to factory condition	Yes
Restore from backup	Reinstalls backed-up information	Depends on backup

So, if someone says, “I need to reset my iPad Pro,” the first question should be: Do you want to restart it or erase everything?

Those are very different operations.

How to Reset iPad Pro With a Normal Restart

A normal restart is usually the safest place to start.

It can help resolve temporary software glitches, apps that are acting strangely, sluggish performance, Bluetooth problems, or other minor issues.

Step 1: Press the Buttons

On most modern iPad Pro models without a Home button, press and hold:

Top button + either Volume button

Continue holding them until the power-off slider appears.

Step 2: Slide to Power Off

You should see a slider labeled something similar to slide to power off.

Drag the slider from left to right.

Your iPad Pro will begin shutting down.

Step 3: Wait

Don’t immediately turn the iPad back on.

Wait approximately 30 seconds so the device can completely power down.

Step 4: Turn the iPad Pro Back On

Press and hold the Top button.

Keep holding it until the Apple logo appears.

Your iPad Pro will start normally.

How to Restart an iPad Pro Without Using the Settings App

You don’t have to open Settings to restart your iPad Pro.

The physical-button method is often faster.

Follow these steps:

Press and hold the Top button and either Volume button.
Wait for the power-off slider.
Drag the slider.
Wait for the iPad to shut down.
Hold the Top button.
Release it when the Apple logo appears.

This method is especially convenient when you’re already using the device and don’t want to navigate through menus.

How to Restart iPad Pro From Settings

You can also shut down an iPad Pro through the Settings app.

This method is useful when the physical buttons are difficult to use or when you prefer using the touchscreen.

Step 1: Open Settings

Tap Settings on your iPad Pro.

Step 2: Open General

Scroll down and select General.

Step 3: Select Shut Down

Scroll toward the bottom of the General settings page.

Tap Shut Down.

Step 4: Use the Slider

The power-off slider will appear.

Drag it across the screen.

Step 5: Turn It Back On

After the iPad completely shuts down, press and hold the Top button until the Apple logo appears.

How to Force Reset an iPad Pro When It’s Frozen

What if the screen doesn’t respond?

Maybe an app has completely frozen. Perhaps the touchscreen isn’t registering taps. Or the iPad Pro appears stuck on one screen.

This is when a force restart can help.

A force restart is different from a factory reset. It does not intentionally erase your photos, apps, documents, or other personal information.

Force Restart iPad Pro Without a Home Button

Most recent iPad Pro models use the following button sequence.

Step 1: Press and Release the First Volume Button

Quickly press and release the Volume button closest to the Top button.

Don’t hold it down.

Step 2: Press and Release the Other Volume Button

Quickly press and release the other Volume button.

Again, this should be a quick press.

Step 3: Hold the Top Button

Immediately press and hold the Top button.

Keep holding it even if the screen temporarily appears unchanged.

Step 4: Wait for the Apple Logo

Continue holding the Top button until the Apple logo appears.

Once you see the Apple logo, release the button.

The iPad Pro should restart.

What If the iPad Pro Takes a Long Time to Restart?

Don’t panic if the Apple logo remains on the screen for a little while.

A restart can take longer than usual after:

A system crash
A software update
Low available storage
An interrupted operation
A temporary system problem

Give the iPad some time before attempting additional troubleshooting.

If it repeatedly gets stuck on the Apple logo, you may need to connect it to a computer and use recovery-mode troubleshooting.

Does a Force Restart Erase an iPad Pro?

No.

A force restart is designed to restart the device when normal controls aren’t working.

It is fundamentally different from choosing an option such as Erase All Content and Settings.

Your personal information should remain on the iPad after a normal force restart.

However, if the device has an underlying storage or software problem, it’s still wise to maintain a current backup whenever possible.

How to Reset iPad Pro Settings Without Erasing Data

Sometimes you don’t want to restart the entire device. Instead, you may want to restore certain system settings to their defaults.

For example, you might have problems with:

Network connections
Keyboard settings
Privacy permissions
Location settings
Home Screen arrangement
System preferences

iPadOS provides several reset options.

Go to:

Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPad → Reset

You will see several choices.

Reset All Settings on iPad Pro

Reset All Settings returns many system settings to their default values without intentionally deleting your personal files.

This can be useful when you’ve changed numerous settings and aren’t sure which one is causing a problem.

Depending on your configuration, you may need to reconfigure things such as:

Network settings
Privacy preferences
Location settings
Keyboard settings
Certain system preferences

Your photos, videos, documents, and installed apps are not the target of this reset.

How to Reset All Settings

Open Settings.
Tap General.
Tap Transfer or Reset iPad.
Tap Reset.
Choose Reset All Settings.
Enter your passcode if requested.
Confirm the reset.

Your iPad Pro will restart or process the reset as required.

How to Reset Network Settings on iPad Pro

If your main problem is Wi-Fi, cellular connectivity, VPN configuration, or another network-related issue, resetting network settings may help.

Go to:

Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPad → Reset → Reset Network Settings

Be aware that this removes saved network-related settings, so you may need to reconnect to Wi-Fi networks afterward.

For example, if your home Wi-Fi password was previously saved, you may need to enter it again.

How to Factory Reset an iPad Pro

A factory reset is much more serious than a normal restart.

A factory reset erases the iPad and returns it to a setup state.

You might use this option when:

You’re selling your iPad Pro.
You’re giving it to someone else.
You want to start over from scratch.
You need to troubleshoot a major software problem.
You’re preparing the device for another owner.

Before proceeding, make sure you understand that this process can remove your personal information from the device.

What Should You Do Before Factory Resetting iPad Pro?

Before choosing to erase everything, create a backup if you need the information later.

Your backup may contain things such as:

Photos
App data
Device settings
Messages
Documents
Other supported personal information

You can use iCloud or a computer-based backup, depending on your preferred setup.

A simple preparation checklist:

Back up important information.
Make sure you know your Apple Account credentials.
Check that important photos and files are synchronized or backed up.
Disconnect accessories if necessary.
Make sure the iPad has enough battery or connect it to power.

Taking a few minutes to prepare can save you from a major headache later.

How to Factory Reset iPad Pro From Settings

Once you’ve backed up your important information, you can erase the device.

Step 1: Open Settings

Launch the Settings app.

Step 2: Select General

Tap General.

Step 3: Open Transfer or Reset iPad

Scroll down and select:

Transfer or Reset iPad

Step 4: Select Erase All Content and Settings

Tap:

Erase All Content and Settings

Step 5: Review the Information

Your iPad will explain what will be removed.

Read the information carefully.

Step 6: Continue

Follow the onscreen instructions.

You may be asked to enter your iPad passcode or Apple Account password.

Step 7: Wait

The iPad will erase its contents and restart.

When the process is finished, you’ll see the setup screen.

Reset vs Restart vs Factory Reset: What’s the Difference?

These terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but they shouldn’t be.

Restart

A restart simply powers the iPad off and starts it again.

It’s useful for temporary problems.

Force Restart

A force restart is a more direct reboot used when the iPad is frozen or unresponsive.

It normally doesn’t erase your data.

Reset All Settings

This returns many system preferences to their default state.

Your personal files are not the primary target.

Factory Reset

This erases the device and returns it to a setup state.

This is the option you should treat as a major data-erasing action.

When Should You Restart Your iPad Pro?

A normal restart is worth trying when your iPad is experiencing temporary problems.

For example:

Apps aren’t opening properly.
The device feels unusually slow.
Bluetooth is behaving strangely.
The touchscreen occasionally stops responding.
Audio isn’t working correctly.
A website or app is stuck.
The iPad has recently installed an update.
You notice unusual temporary behavior.

Think of restarting as giving your iPad a clean slate for its current session.

When Should You Force Restart an iPad Pro?

Use a force restart when normal controls aren’t responding.

For example:

The screen is frozen.
Touch input doesn’t work.
An app has locked up the interface.
The device won’t respond to the normal shutdown process.
The iPad appears stuck.

A force restart should generally be a troubleshooting step, not your first choice for routine shutdowns.

When Should You Factory Reset an iPad Pro?

A factory reset is appropriate for different circumstances.

You might choose it when:

You’re Selling the iPad

Erasing the device helps remove your personal information before another person uses it.

You’re Giving It Away

The next owner should be able to set it up as their own device.

You’re Starting Fresh

Some users prefer to completely erase an old installation before setting the device up again.

Serious Software Troubleshooting

If other troubleshooting methods haven’t solved a persistent problem, a complete erase may be considered.

However, don’t jump straight to a factory reset simply because an app crashes once.

What Happens to Your Data After an iPad Pro Reset?

The answer depends on which reset you perform.

Action	Photos	Apps	Settings	Personal Files
Restart	Stay	Stay	Stay	Stay
Force restart	Stay	Stay	Stay	Stay
Reset All Settings	Stay	Stay	Some reset	Stay
Reset Network Settings	Stay	Stay	Network settings reset	Stay
Erase All Content and Settings	Removed from device	Removed	Reset	Removed

The most important distinction is between resetting settings and erasing the device.

Always read the confirmation screen before proceeding.

What If You Forgot Your iPad Pro Passcode?

If you cannot unlock your iPad because you’ve forgotten the passcode, repeatedly guessing the code isn’t a good troubleshooting strategy.

Depending on the situation and the iPadOS version, you may have options involving the device’s available recovery features or a computer.

In some circumstances, restoring the iPad requires erasing it.

If that happens, you’ll need to restore your information from a backup afterward if one exists.

How to Reset an iPad Pro Using Recovery Mode

Recovery mode can be useful when your iPad Pro won’t start correctly or normal troubleshooting isn’t working.

You’ll generally need a Mac or Windows PC and an appropriate cable.

The broad process is:

Connect the iPad Pro to the computer.
Open Finder on a modern Mac or the appropriate Apple device-management software on Windows.
Put the iPad Pro into recovery mode using the button sequence.
Locate the iPad on the computer.
Follow the onscreen instructions.
Choose the appropriate recovery or restore option.

A restore can erase the iPad, so this isn’t the method to casually try when a simple restart would solve the problem.

How to Troubleshoot an iPad Pro That Won’t Turn On

If your iPad Pro doesn’t appear to respond, start with the basics.

1. Connect It to Power

Plug the iPad into a reliable power adapter and cable.

Allow it to charge for a while.

A completely depleted battery can make the device appear unresponsive.

2. Try a Force Restart

Use the correct button sequence:

Quickly press and release one Volume button.
Quickly press and release the other Volume button.
Hold the Top button.
Continue holding until the Apple logo appears.

3. Check the Cable and Charger

If nothing happens, try another compatible charging cable, power adapter, or outlet.

A damaged cable can prevent the iPad from charging.

4. Check for Physical Damage

If the iPad has been dropped, exposed to liquid, or suffered another physical event, software troubleshooting may not solve the underlying problem.

What If the iPad Pro Is Stuck on the Apple Logo?

An iPad stuck on the Apple logo can indicate that the normal startup process isn’t completing.

First, try a force restart.

If the problem continues, connect the iPad to a computer and consider recovery-mode troubleshooting.

If you have important information that isn’t backed up, be careful before selecting any option that erases or restores the device.

Can You Reset an iPad Pro Without Losing Everything?

Yes, depending on what you mean by “reset.”

A normal restart and force restart don’t intentionally erase your personal data.

Resetting certain settings can also leave your personal files and apps intact.

However, Erase All Content and Settings is specifically designed to erase the device.

So before resetting your iPad, ask yourself:

Am I trying to restart the device, fix settings, or completely erase it?

That one question can prevent an accidental data loss.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Resetting iPad Pro

Resetting an iPad is usually straightforward, but a few mistakes can create unnecessary problems.

Mistake 1: Confusing Restart With Factory Reset

A restart is not the same as erasing everything.

Always check the option you’re selecting.

Mistake 2: Factory Resetting Without a Backup

If you need your photos, files, or app data later, back up first whenever possible.

Mistake 3: Holding the Volume Buttons During a Force Restart

The force-restart sequence requires quick presses and releases of the Volume buttons.

The Top button is the one you continue holding.

Mistake 4: Repeating Button Combinations Randomly

If the first attempt doesn’t work, carefully repeat the correct sequence instead of pressing every button simultaneously.

Mistake 5: Ignoring Low Battery

A dead or nearly empty battery can look like a serious software problem.

Charge the iPad before assuming it has failed.

Faster Decision Guide: Which iPad Pro Reset Should You Use?

Here’s a quick way to decide.

Your Problem	Try This First
iPad is slightly slow	Normal restart
App is frozen	Close/restart app, then restart iPad
Touchscreen is completely frozen	Force restart
Wi-Fi is behaving strangely	Network troubleshooting or reset network settings
Settings are messed up	Reset All Settings
Forgotten passcode	Recovery/reset options
Selling the iPad	Backup, then erase all content and settings
Giving the iPad away	Backup, then erase all content and settings
iPad stuck during startup	Force restart, then recovery troubleshooting if needed

This approach helps you choose the least disruptive solution first.

How to Prevent iPad Pro Problems in the Future

You don’t need to constantly reset your iPad to keep it working properly.

A few habits can help.

Keep iPadOS Updated

Software updates can include bug fixes, security improvements, and performance-related changes.

Maintain Free Storage

An extremely full device can make everyday tasks more difficult.

Review large files, downloaded media, and unused apps periodically.

Restart Occasionally

You don’t necessarily need to restart your iPad every day, but an occasional restart can be useful when the device behaves unusually.

Keep a Backup

A current backup is especially important before major troubleshooting or a factory reset.

Use Reliable Accessories

Poor-quality charging cables and damaged accessories can create charging and connectivity problems.

Frequently Asked Questions About Resetting iPad Pro

1. How do I reset my iPad Pro quickly?

For a normal restart, hold the Top button and either Volume button until the power-off slider appears. Slide to turn it off, wait briefly, then hold the Top button to turn it back on.

2. How do I force restart my iPad Pro?

Quickly press and release one Volume button, quickly press and release the other Volume button, then press and hold the Top button until the Apple logo appears.

3. Will resetting my iPad Pro delete everything?

It depends on the reset method. A normal restart or force restart doesn’t intentionally erase your personal data. Erase All Content and Settings does erase the device.

4. How do I reset an iPad Pro that is frozen?

Try a force restart. Quickly press and release the two Volume buttons one at a time, then hold the Top button until the Apple logo appears.

5. Should I reset my iPad Pro before selling it?

Yes. Before handing the device to another person, back up information you want to keep and use the appropriate erase option to remove your personal data. Also make sure the device is properly removed from your account and ready for its next owner.

Final Thoughts: How to Reset iPad Pro Safely

Knowing how to reset iPad Pro doesn’t necessarily mean you need to erase the entire device.

For everyday problems, start with a normal restart. If the iPad is completely frozen, use a force restart. If settings are causing persistent problems, consider the appropriate reset-settings option. A factory reset should be reserved for situations where you intentionally want to erase the device, such as preparing it for a new owner or starting over.

The most important rule is simple: choose the least disruptive reset that solves your problem.

And before performing any data-erasing reset, make sure you’ve backed up anything you don’t want to lose.

Key Takeaways

A normal restart does not erase your personal data.
A force restart is useful when the iPad Pro is frozen.
Resetting settings is different from erasing the entire device.
Erase All Content and Settings removes personal information from the iPad.
Back up important information before performing a factory reset.
If the iPad won’t start normally, recovery-mode troubleshooting may be necessary.
Always confirm which reset option you’re selecting before proceeding.

Add model-specific button instructionsRemove repeated reset explanations