How to reset your Kindle

⚡ Fast fix

• Restart the Kindle first to fix common glitches.
• Use a soft reset if the screen is frozen or unresponsive.
• Use a factory reset only if problems continue or before giving it away. Note: A factory reset erases all content and account data.

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If a Kindle® is frozen, slow, or not working properly, resetting it can often solve the problem. The key is choosing the right type of reset so you don’t accidentally erase anything. Asurion Experts help people troubleshoot devices like this every day, so these steps are listed in the safest order to try.

Restart your Kindle

A restart fixes many issues without deleting books or settings.

1. Press and hold the Power button for about 40 seconds.
2. Release the button when the screen goes blank or the device restarts.
3. Press the Power button once to turn the Kindle back on if needed.

Soft reset a frozen Kindle

If the screen won’t respond at all, a soft reset forces the Kindle to reboot.

1. Press and hold the Power button for 40 seconds, even if the screen does not change.
2. Release the button and wait a few seconds.
3. Press the Power button again to turn the Kindle back on.

This does not remove books or personal settings.

Factory reset your Kindle

A factory reset returns the Kindle to its original state. Use this only if other resets don’t work or before selling or giving away the device.

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Device Options.
3. Tap Reset.
4. Confirm when prompted.

The Kindle will restart and remove:

• All downloaded content
• Saved settings
• The Amazon® account

Set up your Kindle again after a reset

After a factory reset, the Kindle must be set up again before it can be used.

1. Connect the Kindle to Wi-Fi.
2. Sign in with an Amazon account.
3. Install any available software updates.
4. Download books from the library.

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FAQ

What’s the difference between restarting and resetting a Kindle?

Restarting reboots the Kindle and keeps all data intact. A factory reset erases everything and removes the Amazon account from the device.

Will resetting a Kindle delete books?

A factory reset removes downloaded books from the device, but not from the Amazon account. Purchased books can be re-downloaded after signing in again.

When should you factory reset a Kindle?

A factory reset makes sense if the Kindle won’t respond after restarting, has ongoing software issues, or is being given to someone else.

What if a Kindle won’t reset at all?

Charge the Kindle for at least 30 minutes, then try the reset steps again. If it still won’t respond, contact Amazon support for further assistance.