How to reset Xiaomi to factory settings: 5 proven ways

Resetting Xiaomi devices to factory settings is a procedure that can be required in a variety of situations, from preparing a gadget for sale to eliminating critical failures. However, improperly executed hard reset can lead to data loss, account locking or even “bricking” the device. In this guide, we will discuss all the current ways to reset for smartphones (Redmi, POCO, Mi), tablets and Xiaomi TVs – taking into account the features of MIUI 14/15 and the latest models of 2023-2026.

It's important to understand that resetting doesn't always solve performance problems or bugs. For example, if lags are caused by a filled memory or application conflict, sometimes it's enough to clear the cache or roll back the update. But if the device is stuck on the logo, doesn't respond to touches or is infected with a virus, reset becomes the only way out. Below you'll find instructions for all scenarios, including when the screen is not working or the pattern lock is forgotten.

1.Resetting preparation: what to do beforehand

Before starting the reset, follow the mandatory steps – this will save you from losing important data and problems with your Mi Account:

  • 📱 Create a backup. Use the built-in Backup app (Settings) → The phone. → Backups or third-party services like Google Drive. Especially important to save: Contacts (export to.vcf) Photos and videos (check folder) DCIM and WhatsApp/Media) Communications SMS (apps SMS Backup & Restore)
  • 🔋 Charge the battery to at least 50%. Interrupting the reset process due to discharge can make it impossible to turn on the device without flashing through the Fastboot.
  • 🔑 Make sure to remember the data from the Mi Account. after resetting on some models (Redmi Note 12 Pro)+, Xiaomi 13 Ultra will require login/password to unlock.
  • 📡 Disable all accounts: Google, Mi Account, social networks, this will speed up the process and avoid synchronization errors. → Accounts and synchronization.

⚠️ Note: If the device has enabled the Find Device function, after the reset, you may need to confirm via the phone. SMS Or email. Turn it off in advance in Settings. → Google → Security → Find My Device.

For owners of Xiaomi Mi TV or Redmi Smart TVs, preparation is easier: just save the list of installed applications (screenshot of the Settings → Apps screen) and the data of streaming services (Netflix, Disney+). On set-top boxes (Mi Box S, Mi TV Stick), the reset will lead to the removal of all Wi-Fi settings and applications.

📊 How often do you reset your Xiaomi devices?
Never dropped it.
1 time per year for cleaning
Just before the sale.
In severe disruptions
I remember.

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

This method is suitable if the device is turned on, touch-responsive and you have access to the menu. The instruction is relevant for all Xiaomi smartphones on MIUI 12-15, including POCO F5, Redmi K60 and Xiaomi 14.

  1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
  2. Go to About Phone (in older versions of MIUI - Additional).
  3. Select Backup and Reset → Resetting.
  4. Tap to erase all data (on some models – Reset to factory settings).
  5. Enter. PIN-code or pattern lock, if requested.
  6. Confirm the action by clicking Reset phone (or Delete everything).

It takes 3-10 minutes. The device will reboot, and you'll see the screen of the initial setup, just like after you bought it. On Xiaomi TVs, the path is similar: Settings → Device → Reset and upgrade → Reset to factory.

Ensure stable battery charging

Keep a backup copy

Disable Mi Account and Google Account

Remember the entry data after the reset

Check Wi-Fi connection (to download updates after reset)-->

⚠️ Warning: On devices with an unlocked bootloader, a warning This device is unlocked when turned on may appear after reset.

3. Method 2: Hard Reset via Recovery Mode (if the phone is not turned on)

If the smartphone is stuck on the logo, does not respond to buttons or is blocked, resetting through recovery mode (Recovery Mode) will help. This method works even with damaged firmware, but requires care - incorrect actions can lead to loss of IMEI or lock the bootloader.

Instructions for most models (Redmi 9A, POCO X3 Pro, Xiaomi 11T, etc.):

  1. Turn off the device (clip Power + Volume up for 10 seconds if it is getting stuck).
  2. Press the button combination: For most smartphones: Power + Volume up (hold 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo appears). For older models (until 2019): Power + Volume up + Volume down. For Xiaomi TVs: on the remote, pinch Volume down + Home button for 5 seconds.

Recovery

Wipe Data

Wipe & Reset

Nutrition

Wipe All Data

Yes

Reboot

Reboot to System

If the Recovery menu is in Chinese, focus on the order of items:

  1. 3rd point - (data cleaning).
  2. 4th paragraph (confirmation).

Instructions:

  1. Go to account.xiaomi.com and log in.
  2. Select the Find Device (or Device Management) tab.
  3. Find the locked device in the list and press Unlock (or Unblock).
  4. Confirm the action via SMS or email.
  5. Wait for a notification of successful unlocking (can take up to 24 hours).

Once unlocked, the device will automatically reset to factory settings. If this method does not work, only the firmware through Fastboot remains (see next section).

⚠️ Note: This will only work if the device has not been reset previously via Recovery. After manual reset (via Wipe Data), unlocking through Mi Account will become impossible - you will need to enter the account data that was tied before the reset.

💡

If you often forget passwords, add a backup email to your Mi Account and attach a phone number to make it easier to restore access to your device in the future.

5. Method 4: Fastboot Reset (for power users)

This method is a last chance if other methods have not worked. It requires a computer, a USB cable and basic knowledge of working with ADB/Fastboot. It is suitable for devices with an unlocked bootloader or if you are ready to unlock it (this erases all data!).

Step-by-step:

  1. Download and install: Android SDK Platform-Tools (for fastboot commands); Xiaomi USB Drivers (if Windows doesn't recognize the device); Stock firmware for your model (choose the Fastboot version).

Fastboot

  • Press Power + Volume down for 10 seconds.
  • Connect the device to the PC – a rabbit in a fastboot mode will appear on the screen.
  • Open the command line (cmd) in the folder with the platform-tools and execute the commands: fastboot devices (should display the serial number of the device), fastboot oem edl (to go to EDL mode, if you need firmware) fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache fastboot reboot

After resetting on the TV, you will need to re-set:

  • 🌐 Wi-Fi connection.
  • 📺 Channel setting (for models with TV tuner).
  • 🎮 Installation of applications (Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video).