If your Kindle device isn't responding or frequently encounters problems, you can resolve the issue by resetting the device. A standard reset (soft reset) often fixes most issues, but you can also perform a factory reset (hard reset) for a more long-term solution. Fortunately, with every Kindle device, there are a few basic steps you can take to restore its proper functionality.
Steps
Preparation Before Resetting Your Kindle

Try restarting before starting the reset process. Sometimes, your Kindle may freeze due to a stuck power button. In such cases, the screen may stop responding or the buttons may temporarily stop working. Simply turn off the Kindle, plug it into a charger, and turn it back on. It’s best to try this step first to avoid spending too much time troubleshooting basic issues.

Choose between soft reset or hard reset (factory reset). The soft reset method will not erase saved passwords or any eBooks. This method helps your Kindle run faster or exit an unresponsive screen. The hard reset will erase all data and restore your Kindle to its factory settings. This option should only be used as a last resort, meaning your Kindle is experiencing major issues, such as a continuously unresponsive screen or internal damage.
- If you've tried a soft reset multiple times, it's probably time for a hard reset.
- Amazon's customer service is excellent and can help you choose the best option for your situation.
- If you accidentally drop your Kindle or it falls in water, it’s best to take it to a technician. Amazon offers a free replacement if the product is still under warranty. If the warranty has expired, they may send you a refurbished Kindle at a discounted price.

Charge Your Kindle. This step is crucial for both the soft reset and hard reset methods. Connect your Kindle to a power source using the included charging cable. Make sure the battery indicator at the top of the main screen is fully charged. After charging, disconnect the cable from your Kindle.
- Your Kindle should have at least 40% battery charge to perform the hard reset.

Back up your passwords and important files. When you delete data on your Kindle, everything on the device will be lost. The content you’ve purchased on Amazon will remain linked to your account and can be re-downloaded. However, third-party eBooks and apps need to be saved separately. You can do this by connecting your Kindle to a laptop via a USB cable. Then, you can drag and drop everything into a specific folder from your downloads section.
Perform a Soft Reset on Your Kindle

Perform a soft reset on the Kindle First Generation. First, turn off the device. Open the back cover of your Kindle and remove the battery. Wait for one minute before replacing the battery. Close the back cover and power the device back on.
- To remove the battery, use your fingernail or a pointed object like a pen. Avoid using scissors or a knife as it may damage the battery.
- Make sure the back cover is securely closed. You’ll hear a "click" sound when the cover is properly closed.

Reset Kindle Second Generation (and/or newer models). First, press and hold the power button for about 20 seconds. Slide the power switch and hold it for 20 to 30 seconds before releasing. This action instructs the device to reboot, rather than just turning it off. The reboot screen (all black or bright) will appear once you release the power button.

Wait for Kindle to reboot. Kindle will take one to two minutes to restart. Be patient and allow the device time to complete the reset process. Once the reboot is finished, the device will automatically turn back on. If Kindle doesn't turn back on after 10 minutes, manually press the power button to start it.
- The screen may freeze when Kindle reboots. This happens if the screen remains unresponsive for over 10 minutes during the reboot process.

Charge your Kindle. If the device stops responding while restarting or doesn't react to the reset commands, connect your Kindle to a power source and charge it for at least 30 minutes. Make sure the device is charged sufficiently. If you disconnect the Kindle too soon, you may need to repeat the previous steps.

Press the power button again. After charging the Kindle, slide the power switch and hold it for about 20 seconds. The reboot screen will appear again. Wait one or two minutes for the device to restart before checking it. This step will finalize the reset process.

Test your Kindle's functionality. Browse through book options using the arrows on the side of the Kindle. Press the buttons below the device to check if they work properly. Try turning the Kindle off and on to see how it responds. Continue testing the device until you’re sure it’s working normally. If the Kindle is still not functioning properly, you can repeat the steps above or perform a hard reset.
Reset Kindle to Factory Settings

Reset Kindle First Generation (1st Gen) to Factory Settings. First, power on your Kindle. Use your fingernail or a pointed object to open the back cover. Locate a small hole — this is the reset button. Use a pointed pen or toothpick to press the button for about 30 seconds, or until the Kindle turns off. Wait for the Kindle to automatically restart.

Restore Kindle Second Generation (2nd Gen). Slide and hold the power button for about 30 seconds. Immediately after doing this, press and hold the Home button until the Kindle screen lights up. Then, wait for the Kindle to reboot automatically.

Reset Kindle Keyboard to Factory Settings. Hold the power button for about 15-30 seconds. After this, just wait for the Kindle to automatically restart. This is the procedure to restore the Kindle’s factory settings. If this doesn’t work, you can repeat the steps. Ensure the Kindle is fully charged before performing this reset.

Restore Kindle DX. Simply press and hold the power button for at least 20 seconds. The Kindle will turn off, and the screen will go black. Afterward, wait for the Kindle to restart automatically. If this method doesn’t work, you can try again. Ensure your Kindle has at least 40% battery to perform a hard reset.

Troubleshoot Kindle Touch. First, tap the "Home" button. Then, tap the "Menu" on the screen. When the toolbar appears, tap on "Settings." Finally, all you need to do is wait for the Kindle to reboot.

Restart and restore Kindle 5-Way Controller - including 4th and 5th generation Kindle. Open the "Menu" page on your Kindle. Select "Settings," then tap "Menu" again. Finally, choose "Restore to Factory Settings" and wait for the Kindle to restart automatically.

Reset Kindle Paperwhite. First, select "Menu" on the main screen. Choose "Settings" from the displayed menu. After tapping on "Settings," go back to the "Menu," scroll down to the new screen, and select "Reset Device." A warning will appear, allowing you to exit the reset process. If you select "Yes," the Kindle will begin the factory reset.

Erase data on Kindle Fire and Fire HD. Pull down the menu at the top of the screen and select "More..." Tap on "Settings" and scroll down to find "Device" and tap it. Now, simply wait for the Kindle to restart. If this doesn't work, you can try again. Ensure the device’s battery is fully charged before attempting it again.
Tips
- If reinstalling the Kindle does not resolve the issue, try contacting Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/contact-us. You can also reach Amazon Kindle support by calling 1-866-321-8851 or the international number at 1-206-266-0927.
- Try multiple times. Sometimes, the Kindle may not respond after a single restart. You may need to restart it two or three times.
- Pause between each attempt. You should not restart the Kindle multiple times in a row. Give the device some rest. You can also charge your Kindle during this time.
Warning
- If you suspect a serious issue with your Kindle, it's best to take it to a technician. Avoid attempting to repair the device yourself.
- Always keep a backup of your eBooks and passwords. Even with a soft reset, you might lose data.
