How to reset Xiaomi smartphone to factory settings: safe reset in 5 minutes

Resetting Xiaomi to factory settings is a radical but sometimes necessary step to solve software problems. Maybe your Redmi or POCO started to slow down after the upgrade, got infected with a virus, or you just want to sell the device by deleting all personal data. Either way, a full reset will return the smartphone to its original state, the same as it was when it was first unpacked.

The procedure seems simple, but there are pitfalls, from losing important files to blocking a Mi Account if you don’t follow the rules. In this article, three official reset methods (including the hidden method via Fastboot) tested on 2020-2026 models, as well as instructions for saving data and recovering from zero, we will analyze when the reset is really necessary and when the problem can be solved less dramatically.

When you need to reset to factory settings

Don’t rush to reset Xiaomi when you first crash, and more gentle methods are helpful in 60% of cases:

• 🔄 System freeze – try to restart the smartphone with the power button holding for 10-15 seconds.
• 🐢 Brakes – Clean the cache in Settings → Warehouse → Clear cache (does not delete personal data).
• 📱 App Glitches – Remove Troubled Software or Update It via Google Play.
• 🔋 Fast battery discharge – check background activity in Settings → Battery → Battery utilization.

Here are the absolute readings for resetting:

• 🚨 Viral infection that does not remove antiviruses (for example, Xiaomi spontaneously sends out a virus) SMS or displays advertising).
• 🔒 Losing password from the lock screen (if not tied to Mi Account).
• 📦 Preparing for sale – Reset deletes all accounts, photos and messages.
• 🛠️ Critical errors MIUI, When the system is not loaded or constantly restarted.

⚠️ Note: If you reset Xiaomi with the Mi Account tied and Find Device enabled, after zeroing, you will need to enter the username / password from the account".

Preparing for resetting: how not to lose important data

Resetting to factory settings completely erases the smartphone’s internal memory, including:

• 📸 Photos and videos (including screenshots and downloads from messengers).
• 📱 Contacts, SMS, Call log (unless synced with Google or Mi Cloud).
• 🎮 Save games and customize applications.
• 📁 Files in Download folders, DCIM, Documents.

To avoid losses, follow 3 mandatory steps:

1. Synchronize data with the cloud: 📱 Contact: Settings → Google accounts → Synchronization. 📸 Photo: Use Google Photos or Mi Cloud (in Xiaomi account settings).
2. Copy files on PC: Connect Xiaomi over USB, select File Transfer (MTP) mode, and copy DCIM, Download, WhatsApp folders (if any).

Keep a backup copy of MIUI

• Go to Settings → About Phone → Backup and create a backup on Mi Cloud or locally.
• Confirm the action: Enter PIN-Lock screen code (if installed) and press Erase Everything.The smartphone will reboot and begin the cleaning process.
• Select "Wipe Data": Use the volume buttons for navigation and the power button for confirmation. Select: Wipe Data → Wipe All Data → Confirm After confirmation, the smartphone will start cleaning (it will take 2-5 minutes).
• Reboot the device: Go back to the main Recovery menu and select Reboot → Reboot to System.

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If after reset via Recovery smartphone requires a password from Mi Account, and you do not remember it – restore access through the site account.xiaomi.com or contact in support with a check about the purchase.

Method 3: Fastboot Reset (for power users)

This method is used if:

• 🔧 Recovery Mode is damaged or missing.
• 📱 Smartphone is blocked by Mi Account and you know the username / password.
• 🛠️ You need to reflash the device after a failed update.

To reset via Fastboot, you will need:

• 💻 Computer with Windows/macOS/Linux.
• 🔌 Cable USB (preferably original).
• 📥 The Mi Flash Tool or ADB/Fastboot.