Kindle Paperwhite Stuck On Lock Screen? (Try These Fixes!)

Is your Kindle Paperwhite stuck on lock screen? Stay with us, since we’ve found the solution!

There are quite a few different reasons why your e-reader will get frozen on the loading screen.

Your Kindle may fail to start halfway through the loading screen because of a depleted battery, firmware issues, battery failure or even overheating.

You can approach the issue in each of the following ways:

Keep reading for a full explanation of these steps!

How to Fix Kindle Paperwhite Stuck On Lock Screen Error?

Note: Have you tried interacting with the Kindle Paperwhite and testing all of the buttons?

1. Charge and Power Cycle the Kindle

The first and most practical solution is to ensure Kindle has been charged to maximum capacity and conduct a power cycle, also called “forced reboot.”

This procedure refreshes the system, clears the temporal memory, and eliminates underlying boot issues, which may be responsible.

Follow these steps to power cycle the Kindle Paperwhite:

1. Plug the Kindle Paperwhite with the charger and an outlet.
2. Wait for 30 seconds and disconnect the Kindle Paperwhite.
3. Hold the Power button on the Kindle for about 40 seconds.
4. Release the button and reconnect the Kindle to the charger.
5. Wait for at least 25–30 minutes while the Kindle is charging.

If the Kindle e-reader won’t start, there will be no way of checking how much battery is available.

Note: It takes anywhere between 1–2 hours for a Kindle Paperwhite to charge from 0 to 100%.

2. Connect Kindle to a Computer/Laptop

A quick way to reset your Kindle’s firmware is to connect the device to a Windows computer or laptop.

Upon being plugged in, the Kindle will automatically establish a connection with your PC and attempt to reload all directories, potentially fixing any errors with the startup/loading issues.

Follow these steps to fix the Kindle Paperwhite by plugging it into a PC:

1. Disconnect the charging cable from the Kindle adapter.
2. Connect one end of the cable to the Kindle’s A/C port.
3. Plug the other end into a USB 2.0/3.0 port on your PC.
4. Acknowledge the Kindle’s connection through the PC.
5. Press the “Power” button on the Kindle for 10 seconds.
6. Next, check if the e-reader gets past the loading screen.

Verify that you’ve allowed File and Data transfer through your PC if prompted when the Kindle is connected.

If you don’t allow an exchange of information, the Kindle will only use your PC as a charging source and this may not solve the loading screen error.

3. Manually Re-upload Kindle’s Firmware

By default, all Kindle Paperwhite e-readers are designed to receive updates automatically, as long as they’re connected to a Wi-Fi network.

You can manually re-upload the latest firmware available for the Kindle in the case of a system error, misconfigured settings, or loading faults.

• All you’re going to need is the Kindle’s charging cable and a PC or laptop that’s connected to the internet.

Here’s how to manually re-upload the Kindle Paperwhite’s firmware:

1. Disconnect the Kindle’s charging cable from the adapter.
2. Next, plug the cable into the charging port of your Kindle.
3. Connect the other end to your PC or laptop and approve.
4. Go to the Kindle Firmware Download page on your PC.
5. Download the most current firmware available for Kindle.
6. Access Kindle’s drive through the file explorer of your PC.
7. Drag and drop the firmware file into the directory of the unit.
8. Unplug the Kindle and go to “Menu” → “Settings” → “Menu.”
9. Select “Update Your Kindle” and tap “OK” to start the update.

Important: Ensure the Kindle is connected to the charger for the continuity of the update and do not unplug or power off the e-reader for at least 5–10 minutes.

4. Identify Charging Issues with Kindle

The Kindle Paperwhite stuck on startup screen error may also be a result of an underlying charging error.

This issue can be fixed by troubleshooting the possible sources of charging faults, such as the charging equipment, the power source, or the charging port of the Kindle.

So, let’s begin with the most likable causes for charging issues and build our way!

4.1 Verify All of the Charger’s Connections

First, ensure that the e-reader charging cable is securely attached on both ends.

Check if each of the charger’s connections are secured, including the power adapter, and inspect the Kindle’s charging port for solid obstructions.

4.2 Charge Kindle Through a Different Source

Perhaps, the power source of the Kindle does not deliver a sufficient amount of electricity.

You should test the charging capabilities of the e-reader by installing the device’s power cable into a different A/C outlet.

Pro Tip: You could also attempt to charge the Kindle through a connected PC or laptop!

4.3 Remove Third-Party Charging Equipment

Remove all types of third-party equipment from the charging setup of the Kindle, anything along the lines of power strips, dividers, A/C cord extenders, and surge protectors.

Then, connect the Kindle’s charging adapter directly to a wall outlet and test.

4.4 Replace Kindle’s Charging Equipment

A potential failure with either the charging cable or the A/C adapter can cause issues with the Kindle.

Attempt to charge the e-reader with a different micro-USB to USB 2.0/3.0 cable and test with an alternative 5,25V or lower adapter.

Reminder: Try connecting your e-reader to a power outlet from a different room in case of fuse-related issues from your primary circuit.

5. Determine if your Kindle is Overheating

Charging the Kindle Paperwhite for too long or exposing the device to direct sunlight/heat for prolonged periods can realistically lead to overheating.

• So, upon exceeding the temperature margin, the performance of your Kindle will drop significantly, until the temperature is lowered.

Additionally, your Kindle will stop charging and may even refuse to start or get past the loading screen until the hardware temperature is stabilized.

Here are some reliable ways to prevent the Kindle from overheating:

• Disconnect your Kindle Paperwhite from the charger.
• Connect the Kindle to a data-only USB for 5 seconds.
• Pop-open the back cover by removing the 10 screws.
• Take the Kindle inside your home or out of direct sun.

Alert: Prolonged overheating can expose the Kindle’s hardware to irreversible damage!

6. Remove the Kindle’s Battery Unit (Advanced)

An untraditional way to solve loading screen issues with the Kindle is removing the internal battery pack, which will also void the device’s warranty. 

Only proceed with the steps below if your Kindle’s warranty is either expired or you’ve already disassembled the device before performing these steps.

Here are step-by-step instructions on removing the Paperwhite’s battery;

1. Locate all 10 screws on the back compartment of the Paperwhite.
2. Use a 3.2 mm Phillips screwdriver to remove each of the screws.
3. Carefully remove each of the screws and lift the compartment cover.
4. Locate the battery unit and the motherboard adapter plugging it in.
5. Unplug the battery and gently lift it from the frame until it comes out.
6. Wait 〜25–30 seconds and check the battery bed for dust or debris.
7. Install the battery and tighten the rear compartment with all screws.

Alert: Do not overtighten the screws on the back, as this could bend the plastic and damage the internal hardware of the Kindle.

7. Wait for the Kindle’s Battery to Drain

If none of the solutions helped your Kindle get past the startup screen, you should wait until the e-reader’s internal battery has drained fully. 

On average, it takes up to 12 hours for the Kindle’s battery to deplete, as long as the e-reader is not connected to a charger and working.

So, leave your Kindle stuck on the loading screen! If the display remains lit, it may take less than 12 hours, as the power consumption in such a case will be much more elevated.

Nonetheless, it is recommended to avoid all interactions with the device before the battery has drained fully and attempt a forced reboot after waiting it out.

Final Steps: If your Kindle just won’t pass through the loading screen, it’s time to bring your e-reader for servicing or attempt to claim your warranty.