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How to fix a stuck power button on a Samsung tablet

Your Samsung® tablet won’t turn on—or worse, the power button feels jammed. Whether it’s stuck from wear and tear or something spilled on it, you’ve got options before you turn to a replacement.

At Asurion, we help people get their devices back up and running every day. If your power button is acting up, try these steps to get it working again. If you need a hand along the way, we’re here for you—just bring it to your nearest uBreakiFix® by Asurion store. We’ll take a look and let you know if it’s a quick fix or something more.

Check for dirt or debris

Sometimes the power button is just stuck because of grime buildup. Try this:

  • Shine a flashlight around the button to look for gunk.
  • Gently brush around the button using a clean, dry toothbrush.
  • Use a can of compressed air to clear out loose dust or crumbs.

Avoid poking anything inside the button—this can damage the internal components.

Try pressing the button a few times

If the button isn’t completely stuck but feels stiff, try pressing it several times in quick succession. This might help loosen debris or correct slight alignment issues.

Use an alternative way to power on

Some Samsung tablets support USB wake-up or smart features that let you turn the device on without the power button. Try this:

  1. Plug in the charger and wait a few seconds.
  2. If the screen lights up or the tablet vibrates, your power button may be stuck, but the device is still functional.

You can also try pressing Volume Down + Power together while the tablet is charging—it may reboot the device if the Power key is partially responsive.

When to get help

If your power button still doesn’t respond or feels physically stuck inside the case, the issue might be mechanical. In that case, it’s best to bring it to a Samsung repair pro.

More helpful Samsung tablet tips from our team:


FAQ

Why is my Samsung tablet power button stuck?

It could be from dirt, a worn-out mechanism, or internal damage. Start by cleaning around the button gently and testing its movement.

Can I turn on my tablet without the power button?

Yes, try plugging in the charger or pressing a combination like Volume Down + Power if the button is partially responsive.

How do I clean a sticky tablet button?

Use a dry toothbrush or a short burst of compressed air around the button. Don’t use liquids or sharp objects.

Is a stuck power button repairable?

Absolutely. A professional can open the device, clean or replace the button, and reassemble it safely. Stop by your local uBreakiFix® by Asurion store for a free diagnostic.

*The Asurion® trademarks and logos are the property of Asurion, LLC. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Asurion is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by any of the respective owners of the other trademarks appearing herein.*

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