9 iPad Performance Tips That Actually Work in 2025 

Over time, even the most powerful iPads can begin to feel sluggish. Apps take longer to open, web pages load slowly, and basic tasks start to lag. Fortunately, you don’t need to invest in a new device just yet. With a few smart tweaks, you can improve iPad performance and restore its speed and responsiveness. 

This guide will show you nine iPad performance tips, from clearing Safari’s cache to turning off unnecessary features running in the background. These simple steps can help extend your device’s life, boost efficiency, and make your iPad feel like new again, motivating you to take action. 

1. Update to the Latest Version of iPadOS 

One of the most effective steps in iPad performance optimisation is keeping the software up to date. An outdated iPadOS can slow down your device, cause apps to crash, and limit functionality. 

Check for the latest updates and install them by going to: 
 
 

Settings > General > Software Update 
Before updating, free up some storage space if needed. This simple action helps your iPad run faster and stay compatible with newer apps. 

2. Shut Down Apps Running in the Background 

iPadOS generally manages background apps well, but it’s not always perfect. Too many open apps can slow down performance, especially during multitasking. 

• For iPads with a Home button: Double-press the Home button to open the multitasking view. Swipe up on any app you want to close. 

• For iPads without a Home button: Swipe up from the bottom of the screen and pause in the middle. Then, swipe up on the apps to shut them down. 

Closing unused apps can help free up memory and give your iPad a noticeable speed boost. 
 

Bonus Tip: Simple Tweaks to Optimise iPad Settings 
Fine-tuning your iPad’s settings can make a noticeable difference in speed and responsiveness. Adjusting features like notifications, background app refresh, and motion effects can reduce lag and improve day-to-day usability. Start by disabling unused services, updating to the latest iPadOS, and clearing out old data. These minor tweaks can help your iPad run faster and last longer throughout the day. 

3. Clear Safari’s Cache 

Safari often becomes noticeably slower during web browsing. One common cause is a build-up of cached data stored from previously visited websites. Over time, this data can affect loading speed and general browser performance. Clearing Safari’s cache helps free up space and removes temporary files that may cause glitches or lag. 

To do this, go to: 
 

Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data 
This simple step can give your browser a fresh start and improve responsiveness. 

4. Disable Background App Refresh 

Background App Refresh allows apps to update content in the background, even when you’re not using them. While this feature helps stay up to date, it can drain your iPad’s resources and slow things down. 

To turn it off, go to: 

Settings > General > Background App Refresh, then tap Background App Refresh again and select Off. 

Disabling this feature stops apps from running background tasks, which may improve iPad performance and extend battery life. 

5. Check if a Slow Connection Is Affecting Your iPad 

If Safari or other apps feel slow, the problem might not be with your iPad; it could be your internet. Apps that rely on real-time data, like video streaming or music platforms, struggle when the WiFi signal drops or slows down. Even basic browsing can become frustrating with weak connectivity. 

To test your network speed, download a reliable internet speed test app. It will show your current upload and download rates and help you figure out if your network is holding things back. 

If the results are poor, try moving closer to your router, rebooting your modem, or switching to a stronger WiFi network. Fixing the connection can quickly improve how your iPad performs online. 

6. Turn Off Notifications 

Notifications can be helpful, but many are just distractions that drain your iPad’s resources. Constant pop-ups from social apps like Facebook or Instagram do little more than interrupt your workflow. Over time, these alerts can slow down your device and affect battery life. 

To cut down on the clutter: 
 

Go to Settings > Notifications 
Select apps individually and switch off notifications for those you don’t need updates from. This simple step can free up memory and improve iPad performance.  

7. Turn Off Location Services 

Location services drain battery life and put extra load on your iPad’s processor. Apps like Maps and location-based service apps need location access to work properly, but most others don’t. Disabling location access for apps that don’t need it can help iPad performance optimisation and battery performance. 

Go to: 

Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services 
Then turn off the toggle or adjust permissions for individual apps. 

Bonus Tip: Restart Your iPad Regularly 

Many users keep their iPads running for weeks without a restart. Over time, background processes and cached memory can slow things down. Restarting your device at least once a week can help clear temporary files and refresh system performance. 

Press and hold the Power + Volume button to restart, then slide to power off. Wait a few seconds, then turn it back on. 

8. Turn Off Spotlight Search 

Spotlight runs in the background, indexing files, apps, and other content to speed up searches. But if you rarely use it, this background activity can slow down performance. Disable Spotlight for apps you don’t search often to reduce system load. 

Go to: 
 

 Settings > Siri & Search, then toggle off “Show in Search” and “Show App” for apps you don’t need indexed. 

9. Enable Reduce Motion 

After switching off other features, you can further boost your iPad’s speed by reducing visual effects. These animations might look nice, but use extra processing power and slow things down over time. 

To adjust this setting, go to: 

Settings > Accessibility > Motion > Reduce Motion and toggle it on. 

This small change can result in noticeably faster performance. 

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How can I increase iPad speed quickly? 

Improve iPad performance with some technical expertise, just a few smart adjustments. From clearing Safari’s cache to turning off unused settings like Spotlight and Location Services, each step is practical and helps increase iPad speed and extend its usability. If your current iPad still isn’t keeping up, consider renting a newer model from One World Rental, a practical way to stay productive without committing to a permanent upgrade.