How to reset Xiaomi Mi Band 3 to factory settings: the complete guide

Why would you want to reset the Mi Band 3?

The Xiaomi Mi Band 3 fitness bracelet, despite its reliability, sometimes requires a complete factory reset, which can be due to software failures when the device stops syncing with the phone, incorrectly displays steps or pulse data, or refuses to turn on altogether, and a reset is necessary before selling the bracelet to delete all personal information, including activity history and associated accounts.

Another common reason is firmware preparation: If you plan to upgrade your Mi Band 3 firmware through informal channels (e.g., MiBandTools or Notify & Fitness), the manufacturer recommends pre-returning the device to factory settings, which minimizes the risk of errors when installing new software.

Method 1: Reset via Mi Fit (official method)

The safest and most recommended way is to use the branded Mi Fit app, which keeps the connection with your Xiaomi account and allows you to recover data after a reset if you have previously backed up.

Instructions:

  • πŸ“± Open the Mi Fit app on your smartphone and make sure the bracelet is connected (the name Mi Smart Band 3 should be displayed at the top of the screen).
  • πŸ”§ Go to the Profile section β†’ Mi Smart Band 3 β†’ Device settings (or Device Management in new versions of the application).
  • πŸ”„ Find Reset to factory settings (may be called Untie Device or Remove Device).
  • βœ… Confirm the action, the bracelet vibrates and resets. It takes up to 30 seconds.

Synchronize the latest data with the bracelet

Check the charge level (minimum 20%)

Turn off Bluetooth on other devices

Close the background applications that use Mi Fit-->

After resetting, the bracelet will automatically go into pairing mode (the Bluetooth icon will appear on the screen), now it can be connected to another phone or the same account again.

πŸ’‘

If the Reset option is not on the menu, upgrade Mi Fit to the latest version via Google Play or the App Store. In older versions of the app, the feature may be hidden.

Method 2: Hardware reset through the button of the bracelet

If the Mi Band 3 is not responding to the phone connection or the Mi Fit app does not recognize the device, you can perform a hard reset directly from the bracelet, which works even with a discharged battery (if at least 5% of the charge remains).

Step-by-step:

  1. Remove the bracelet from your hand and place it on a flat surface with the screen up.
  2. Find a physical button on the case (it is located under the touch screen, at the bottom).
  3. Press the button for 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo appears on the screen and vibration begins.
  4. Release the button - the bracelet will reset and reset.
What if the bracelet does not respond to the button holding?
If nothing happens after 20 seconds of holding the button, connect the Mi Band 3 to the charger for 10-15 minutes. The discharged battery can block the reset process. Also check if moisture has fallen under the button, in which case you will need to dry the device for 24 hours.

⚠️ Warning: Hardware reset removes all data from the bracelet, including sleep history, training and alarm settings, and cannot be recovered after a hard reset, even if the Mi Fit has previously been synchronized.

Method 3: Reset via third-party applications (for power users)

If standard methods don’t work, you can use alternative applications like Notify & Fitness or MiBandTools, which offer advanced bracelet management features, including forced reset.

Important: using third-party software can lead to loss of warranty and unstable operation of the device, use this method only if the first two options do not help.

AnnexResetting instructionsRisks.
Notify & FitnessConnect the bracelet in the app. Go to Device β†’ Additional β†’ Reset. Select Full Reset and confirm.There may be synchronization errors with Mi Fit after resetting.
MiBandToolsActivate Developer Mode in Settings. Select Reboot β†’ Factory Reset.You may need to manually update the firmware.
Amazfit ToolsConnect the bracelet via Amazfit. From the device menu, select Reset Device.Not all Mi Band 3 features are supported.

⚠️ Note: When using MiBandTools or similar programs, turn off automatic sync in Mi Fit to avoid conflicts between applications.

Through the Mi Fit app

Hardware button

Apps (Notify & Fitness, etc.)

I didn't have to throw it away.-->

What to do after the Mi Band 3 is dropped?

After a successful reset, the bracelet returns to a "out of the box" state.

  • πŸ“² Connect it to your phone via Mi Fit (in the menu Add device).
  • πŸ”‹ Update to the latest version (if available).
  • ⏰ Set up alarms, notifications and activity goals.
  • πŸ”„ Restore data from backup (if it was created earlier).

If the bracelet is not determined by the application after resetting:

  1. Reboot your smartphone.
  2. Remove Mi Fit and install it again.
  3. Try connecting from another phone (like Android if you’ve previously used an iPhone).

πŸ’‘

After reset, the Mi Band 3 may temporarily show incorrect time or step data. That's normal - sync will recover after the first successful tether to the phone.

Common mistakes and their solutions

Even with the correct reset, users face problems. Consider typical situations and ways to fix them:

Problem.Possible causeDecision
The bracelet does not drop through the button.Discharged battery or mechanical damage to the buttonCharge the device for 30 to 60 minutes and try again. If it doesn't work, use the Mi Fit reset.
After resetting, the bracelet does not turn on.Critical battery discharge or firmware failureConnect to charging for 1-2 hours. If it doesn't respond, you need to flash it through MiBandTools.
Mi Fit doesn't see bracelet after resettingBluetooth conflict or an outdated version of the applicationReboot your phone, update your Mi Fit, turn Bluetooth on/off.
Step and sleep data not recoveredThere is no backup in the Xiaomi accountCheck the history in Profile β†’ My achievements in Mi Fit. If there is no data, it is lost.

If none of the methods worked, it may be a hardware malfunction, in which case it is recommended to contact the Xiaomi service center, especially if the bracelet is warranty.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Mi Band 3 reset

Can I reset Mi Band 3 without a phone?
Yes, with a hardware button (method 2), but you still need a smartphone with Mi Fit to reconnect.
Will training and sleep data be reset after resetting?
When reset via Mi Fit, the data is stored in the Xiaomi account if synchronization was previously performed. When a hardware reset (button) or through third-party applications, all local data is deleted irrevocably.
How to reset Mi Band 3 if it is blocked by a password?
The password is reset along with other settings when fully reset (by any of the methods described). Once reset, the bracelet will not request the code.
Do I need to remove the bracelet from the strap before resetting?
No, it's not necessary. However, if the reset button doesn't respond, try to remove the capsule from the strap and try again - sometimes the strap prevents you from fully pressing.
Can the reset be cancelled after it is launched?
No. Once the process has started (the bracelet vibrates and shows the Mi logo), it is impossible to interrupt it.