Press and hold the power button until the Samsung logo appears

The power button on a Samsung tablet is usually on the right edge or top edge, depending on the model. Press and hold it for about three to five seconds. You will see the Samsung logo flash on the screen, followed by the startup animation.

If your tablet has been off for a while or the battery is completely drained, it may take a few extra seconds to respond. Keep holding the button even if nothing happens when ready — the tablet needs time to wake up the processor.

Once the startup animation finishes, you will see either the lock screen or a setup screen if this is the first time turning on the tablet.

Key Takeaways

  • The power button is located on the right or top edge of your Samsung tablet and must be held for three to five seconds.
  • The Samsung logo will appear on screen once the tablet begins to power on, followed by the startup animation.
  • If the tablet does not respond, the battery may be completely drained and you should plug it in and wait a few minutes before trying again.
  • A brand-new tablet will show a setup screen after startup, while an existing tablet will show the lock screen.
  • If the tablet is frozen or stuck on the startup screen, you can force a restart by holding the power button for ten to fifteen seconds.

What to do if the tablet does not turn on

If you hold the power button and nothing happens, the battery is likely empty. Plug the tablet into a charger using the USB-C cable that came with it, or any compatible USB-C charger. Let it charge for at least ten to fifteen minutes before trying to turn it on again.

Some Samsung tablets show a low-battery icon or a red light when plugged in while completely drained. This is normal and does not mean the tablet is broken. Wait a few minutes and try the power button again.

If the tablet still does not respond after charging, try a force restart. Hold the power button down for ten to fifteen seconds, even if you see nothing on screen. This can clear a software freeze that prevents normal startup.

Understanding the startup screens you will see

After the Samsung logo disappears, you will see either a lock screen with the time and date, or a welcome screen if the tablet is brand new. A lock screen means the tablet has been set up before. Swipe up from the bottom of the screen or press any button to unlock it, then enter your PIN, pattern, or fingerprint if one is set.

A welcome screen with language options means the tablet is starting up for the first time. Follow the on-screen prompts to choose your language, connect to Wi-Fi, and sign in with a Samsung account or Google account. This process usually takes five to ten minutes.

How to restart your tablet if it is frozen

If your tablet is on but not responding to touches or button presses, a restart will usually fix it. Hold the power button for ten to fifteen seconds until you see "Power off" or "Restart" options on screen, or until the screen goes black. Release the button and wait a few seconds, then press the power button again to turn it back on.

This is different from a normal shutdown because you are forcing the tablet to stop, not asking it politely. Use this method only when the tablet is completely frozen and will not respond to normal commands.

Charging your tablet before first use

If your Samsung tablet is brand new, charge it for at least one to two hours before turning it on for the first time. This gives the battery enough power to complete the initial setup without shutting down partway through.

Use the USB-C charger that came in the box, or any USB-C power adapter rated for at least 5 watts. Faster chargers (15 watts or higher) will charge the tablet more quickly but are not required for startup.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for a Samsung tablet to turn on?

A normal startup takes thirty seconds to two minutes from the moment you press the power button until you see the lock screen or home screen. If it takes longer than three minutes, the tablet may be frozen and you should try a force restart.

What if the power button is stuck or broken?

If the power button does not click or feels stuck, try pressing it from different angles or with slightly more pressure. If it still does not work, you may need to take the tablet to a Samsung service center for repair. Some tablets also allow you to turn on using the volume buttons in combination with the power button, depending on the model.

Can I turn on my tablet while it is charging?

Yes. You can turn on your tablet at any time, even while it is plugged in. In fact, if the battery is completely drained, you must plug it in and let it charge for a few minutes before the power button will work.

Why does my tablet show a red light when I plug it in?

A red light usually means the battery is very low or completely empty. This is normal. Keep the tablet plugged in for ten to fifteen minutes, then try turning it on. The light will change to green or blue once the battery has enough charge.

Is it bad to hold the power button for too long?

Holding the power button for three to five seconds is safe and normal. If you hold it for ten to fifteen seconds, you will force a restart, which is also safe but should only be done when the tablet is frozen. There is no risk of damage from holding the button.