Amazon’s Fire tablets are incredibly popular for their affordability and versatility. However, over time these tablets can start to feel sluggish. If your Fire tablet is slow to load apps, web pages, or videos, there are several ways to help improve its performance.
Table of Contents
Clear Cache and Temporary Files
Over time, cache and temporary files build up on any device. Clearing these files can free up valuable storage space and give your tablet a speed boost.
To clear the cache partition on a Fire tablet:
- Hold the power button to turn off the tablet
- Press and hold the power button and volume up button together until the boot menu appears
- Use the volume keys to highlight “wipe cache partition” and press the power button to select
You can also delete unused apps, clear browser history and cookies, and delete downloads you no longer need. Regularly clearing temporary files keeps your tablet running smoothly.
Close Background Apps
Apps running in the background can slow things down. Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to view recent apps, then swipe each app preview upward to close it. Only keep apps running that you need.
You can also turn on Developer Options to limit background processes, reducing battery and memory usage.
Check for Software Updates
Installing the latest Fire OS and app updates ensures your tablet has the newest features and performance improvements.
In Settings, go to Device Options > System Updates to check for updates. Install any available software updates.
Use a Memory Card for Storage
If your internal storage is full, it can really slow down the tablet. Offloading apps, photos, videos, and files onto an SD card frees up valuable onboard storage.
A fast, high-capacity micro SD card works wonders. Aim for at least 32GB Class 10 card. Move non-essential media to external storage.
Disable Unneeded Features
Turn off features you don’t use to conserve system resources for better speed:
- Disable Bluetooth and GPS if not required
- Turn off background app refresh
- Disable Alexa hands-free mode
Customize notifications, background syncing, and activity tracking to only enable what you truly need.
Close Unnecessary Browser Tabs
Too many open tabs in Silk browser strains your tablet’s RAM. Regularly close browser tabs you aren’t actively using to keep things speedy.
Restart Your Tablet
A simple restart clears memory, ends unresponsive programs, and refresh your Fire tablet for improved performance. Make it a habit to restart your Fire tablet once a week or when it feels sluggish.
Reset Your Tablet
If your Fire tablet feels slow even after trying the tips above, a factory reset may be needed. This erases all locally stored data and resets settings. Only reset as a last resort, after backing up your tablet’s data.
In Settings, go to Device Options > Reset to Factory Defaults. Tap Reset to confirm. Resetting gives your tablet a clean slate, often resolving performance issues.
Use Third-Party Optimization Tools
Apps like SD Maid and Clean Master for Fire Tablet offer advanced optimization features, such as in-depth cache cleaning, removing residual files, task management, and boosting RAM.
While not necessary for most, these utilities can further tune your tablet for speed. Be cautious of apps requesting unnecessary permissions though.
By regularly maintaining your Fire tablet using the handy tips above, you can enjoy fast, smooth performance for years to come. Clear temporary files, install updates, add a micro SD card, disable unneeded features, and reset your tablet when needed. With a little device care, your Fire tablet will run like new.
