How to format Xiaomi Mi 9A: all ways to reset to factory settings

Formatting Xiaomi Mi 9A is a procedure that can be required in a variety of situations, from preparing the device for sale to fixing software failures. However, not all users know that an incorrect reset can lead to data loss, locking the bootloader or even “bricking” the phone. In this article, we will analyze all available formatting methods, from standard resetting through the settings menu to advanced methods through Fastboot and Recovery, and also explain how to avoid typical errors.

It’s important to understand that the Mi 9A is a budget device with limited hardware resources, so some methods (such as unlocking the bootloader) may take longer or require additional manipulation. If you’ve never worked with Xiaomi firmware before, we recommend starting with the easiest way – reset through the settings. For experienced users, we have prepared detailed instructions on how to work with MiFlash and ADB.

1.When should you format Xiaomi Mi 9A?

Factory reset is not a universal solution to all problems, but in some cases it is really necessary.

• 📱 Preparing for sale or transfer – deletion of personal data, accounts and files.
• 🔄 System lags and freezes - if the smartphone brakes even after cleaning the cache.
• 🚨 Viruses or malware – when the antivirus fails to deal with the threat.
• 🔧 Errors after the update – if the firmware “flyed off” or the device does not turn on.
• 🔒 Forgotten pattern lock or PIN — If other methods of unlocking have not helped.

However, before you start formatting, check whether you can do with more gentle methods:

• ⚡ Cache Clearing in Recovery (Wipe Cache Partition).
• 🧹 Remove unnecessary applications and files manually.
• 🔄 Restart in Safe Mode (hold the power button) → Safe Mode).

⚠️ Note: If you reset your phone because of a forgotten password, note that after formatting, you will need to enter data from the previously associated Mi Account!

2. Method 1: Reset via settings (the safest)

This is the easiest and most recommended method for most users, it requires no additional tools and preserves the integrity of system files.

• 📱 The phone is turned on and reacts to touch.
• 🔓 Remember your password or pattern lock.
• 📶 No critical system failures.

Instructions:

1. Open Settings → About the phone → Reset settings.
2. Select Reset all settings (not to be confused with Network Reset!).
3. Confirm the action by entering PIN-code.
4. Wait until the process is completed (usually 5-10 minutes).

After the reboot, you will be asked to set up your phone as new. If you previously had a Mi Account attached, you will need to enter your username and password to unlock it.

Backup important data |Remember the username and password from Mi Account |Connect the charger (minimum 50% charge) |Make sure the phone does not run out during the process-->

⚠️ Warning: If the phone requires an old password after reset and you don't remember it, you'll have to unlock the bootloader and flash the device through Fastboot!

Method 2: Formatting with Recovery Mode

This method will come in handy if the phone doesn't turn on normally but responds to buttons. Recovery Mode is an emergency mode in which you can reset or reflash the device. Xiaomi Mi 9A has stock MIUI Recovery installed by default, but some users install custom (for example, TWRP).

Instructions for stock recovery:

1. Turn off the phone.
2. Press Volume Up + Power at the same time and hold for 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
3. From the Recovery menu, select the language (usually English or Chinese).
4. Go to Wipe Data → Wipe All Data.
5. Confirm the action and wait for the completion.
6. Choose Reboot. → Reboot to System.

If you have TWRP installed, the process is slightly different:

• In the main menu, select Wipe.
• Swipe to Factory Reset Swipe to Factory Reset.
• After completion, press Reboot System.

Method 3: Full formatting via Fastboot (for experienced)

This method is used if:

• 🔧 The phone is not switched on or stuck on the Mi logo.
• 🔒 Password is forgotten and Mi Account is not tied.
• 📥 You need to flash the stock firmware after a failed update.

The work will require:

• 💻 Windows computer (recommended) 7/10/11).
• 🔌 Cable USB (original or quality).
• 📦 MiFlash utility (download from the official Xiaomi website).
• 📄 Firmware for Mi 9A (The version must be in line with the region!).

Step-by-step:

1. Unpack the archive with firmware in a folder without Cyrillic characters (for example, C:\Mi9A_firmware).
2. Install Qualcomm and MiFlash drivers.
3. Turn off your phone and put it in Fastboot mode: Press Volume Down + Power.
4. Connect your phone to your PC. Android Bootloader Interface should appear in the Device Manager.
5. Open MiFlash, specify the path to the firmware folder and press Refresh.
6. Select Clean All mode (full formatting) and press Flash.
7. Wait for the end (10-20 minutes) and the phone will reboot automatically.

⚠️ Warning: If you choose the wrong firmware (for example, for another region), the phone may lose communication with networks or stop turning on! MIUI before-fixing.

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Before you use Fastboot, disable the antivirus – it can block firmware files as “suspicious.”

Method 4: Formatting through ADB (alternative method)

This is a good way to do this if you have access to the Android Debug Bridge (ADB), but your phone doesn't respond to standard reset methods, for example if:

• 🔄 The system is loading, but the settings are not available.
• 🔒 You need to remove the system application that blocks the reset.
• 📡 You need to debug the device before the firmware.

Instructions:

1. Enable USB debugging in the developer settings (Settings → About Phone → MIUI Version (click 7 times) → For developers → Debugging over USB).
2. Connect your phone to your PC and confirm your trust in your computer.
3. Open the command prompt (Windows) or terminal (Linux/macOS) and type:

adb devices

(You should have your device serial number.)

adb shell


recovery --wipe_data

If the command doesn’t work, try an alternative:

adb reboot recovery


(Select Wipe Data in Recovery)

This method is more flexible than standard reset, but requires command line skills.

6. What to do after formatting?

After resetting the Xiaomi Mi 9A, you will need an initial setup.

• 🔐 Unlock the device through Mi Account (if tied).
• 📶 Set up the network - insert SIM-map and connect to Wi-Fi.
• ☁️ Restore data from backup (if it was made).
• 🔒 Update the system to the latest version MIUI.
• 🛡️ Install antivirus (e.g. Mi Security).

If there are problems after formatting:

• 📵 No network - check the settings APN or re-flash the modem.
• 🔋 Battery discharges quickly - calibrate the battery (discharge to 0% and charge to 100% without interruptions).
• 📱 Lags and brakes – try turning off animation in the developer settings.

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Once fully formatted via Fastboot, the phone becomes clean — no root rights, custom firmware, or locks — the best way to get the device back to factory status.

7. Frequent mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when formatting Xiaomi, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

If you encounter an error that is not in the table, check:

• 🔌 Quality. USB-cable (it is better to use the original cable).
• 💻 MiFlash Version (new firmware requires the latest version of the utility).
• 📋 Error logs in the command line (they will tell you at which stage the failure occurred).

FAQ: Answers to popular questions