Telegram has become super slow on my phone lately. Messages load very slowly, and media files take forever. Does anyone know how to fix this?
If you are also locked out by a forgotten passcode, see our guide on changing your Telegram password. Slow loading often happens because of weak internet or very large cache files. Here are updated ways to speed things up.
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Why Telegram Might Be Loading Slowly
Weak or Unstable Internet Connection
Telegram depends heavily on a stable network to fetch messages and media. If your Wi-Fi or mobile connection is weak or congested, performance will suffer. Try switching networks, moving closer to your router, or using a different mobile carrier when possible.
Cache and Temporary Data Buildup
Over time Telegram stores cached media, thumbnails, database entries, etc. While caching helps with quick access, when cache grows too large or becomes corrupted it slows down the app.
- Open Settings > Data and Storage > Storage Usage
- Tap Clear Cache
Device and Hardware Limitations
Older phones or those with limited RAM or storage may struggle with modern apps. If many apps run in background, memory is low, or storage is almost full, Telegram’s performance can lag. Close background apps, free up space, or consider a newer device.
Tweak Telegram Settings to Help Performance
Limit Automatic Media Downloads
By default Telegram may auto-download media under certain conditions. That can overload your bandwidth and slow things down. You can restrict it.
- 1.Open Telegram > Settings
- 2.Tap Data and Storage
- 3.Under Automatic Media Download, choose when photos, videos, documents download
- 4.Prefer “Wi-Fi only” or disable auto-download for large files
Turn On Data Saver Mode
Telegram’s Data Saver compresses media and limits resource usage. It helps on slower connections. Bear in mind media quality is lower.
- 1.Go to Settings > Data and Storage
- 2.Find Data Saver and toggle it on
Steps to Fix Telegram Slow Loading or Lag Issues
Clear Cache (More Thoroughly)
A bloated or corrupt cache is a frequent cause of slowness. Clearing it often brings immediate improvement. Your chats, contacts, and messages are not deleted — only cached copies of media and temporary files.
- Settings > Data and Storage > Storage Usage > Clear Cache
- Or on some versions: Settings > Advanced > Clear Cache
Newer Telegram versions allow clearing cache by media type or by chat, and you can also set how long unused media stays in cache. See Telegram’s blog for details on “Clear Cache and Reordering Stickers” features.
Update Telegram to the Latest Version
Updates often include bug fixes, performance improvements, and optimizations for new operating system releases. Always use the latest version from App Store, Play Store, or official site.
Adjust Background Activity & Battery Optimizations
On many Android phones, aggressive battery savers or app restrictions can hinder Telegram’s background processes. Make sure Telegram is allowed background activity and excluded from battery optimizations.
Manage Stickers, GIFs, and Excess Media
Large collections of stickers, GIFs, or unused media can slow sticker panels, search index, or message rendering. Remove packs you don’t use. In Telegram’s blog on cache & sticker improvements, you’ll find that you can reorder sticker packs and control local media cleanup.
Monitor or Disable Proxies and VPNs
If you use a proxy or VPN, a slow or distant server may cause lag. Try disabling them temporarily to check. If needed, choose a closer, faster proxy or VPN server.
Improve Your Network Environment
Many network tweaks help:
- Switch to 5 GHz Wi-Fi instead of 2.4 GHz if available
- Restart your router to clear glitches
- Limit other devices consuming bandwidth while using Telegram
- Try a different network location (less interference)
- Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data to test which is faster
Reboot Device or Reinstall App
A simple restart often clears system glitches. If problems persist, uninstall and reinstall Telegram to reset configuration and clear corrupted files.
Use an Alternative Official Client (Where Available)
Some regions have alternative or optimized Telegram clients. Also, Telegram Premium users may see performance priority (according to anecdotal reports). Use official or trusted clients only for safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Telegram suddenly slow for me?
It could be weak internet, overloaded cache or a recent app bug. Try clearing cache, updating the app, or switching networks.
How do I stop Telegram from automatically downloading every file?
Go to Settings > Data and Storage > Automatic Media Download. Pick which media types should auto-download and whether only on Wi-Fi.
Will enabling Data Saver affect media quality?
Yes, it compresses media to reduce data usage. That speeds things up but may lower quality. You can toggle it off if you need full resolution.
Is a VPN helpful if Telegram is lagging?
Sometimes yes, if your ISP throttles or restricts Telegram. But a poor VPN can slow things further. Try disabling it to test, or select a fast server.
Do I need a new phone for Telegram to work better?
Not always. Try cache clearing, updating, closing background apps, and optimizing settings first. But if your hardware is very old or underpowered, upgrading may help in the long run.
