How to zero Xiaomi to factory settings: 5 ways with instructions

Resetting Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO to factory settings is a radical but sometimes necessary step. It solves problems with freezes, viruses, errors after upgrades or before selling the device. However, an incorrect reset can lead to Mi Account lock, data loss or even “bricking” the device. In this article, proven ways for all models (including Xiaomi 14, Redmi Note 13 Pro+ and POCO F6), relevant for 2026.

We're going to break down not only standard resets through settings, but also alternative methods for locked or broken devices: Recovery Mode, Fastboot, and even PC. Separately, we'll focus on bypassing Mi Account locks after resets, which is the most common problem users have. If you plan to sell a phone, be sure to read the section on secure deletion.

1. When you need a reset to factory settings

Resetting is not a panacea, but in some cases it is really necessary:

• 🔄 System Errors: Phone is constantly rebooting, apps are crashing, artifacts appear on screen.
• 🐢 Slowdown: Even after cleaning the cache and removing unnecessary applications, the device “brakes".
• 🔒 Preparation for sale: you need to delete all personal data, including accounts and files.
• 📱 Change of ownership: if you bought a used phone and want to start with a clean slate".
• 🔄 Failed update: after installing a new firmware appeared bugs.

However, resetting will not help if the problem is related to hardware malfunctions (such as a broken screen, a broken camera or a charging connector), in which cases repair is required, not a software reboot.

⚠️ Note: If the phone has Find Device enabled and the Mi Account is tied, you will need to enter your account login and password after the reset. Without this data, the phone will become a brick".

Preparation for the dump: what to do before the start

Before you click Reset settings, follow these steps to avoid losing important data:

Backup contacts and photo |Record username/password from Mi Account|Delete Google account (if you plan to sell)|Check battery (minimum 50%)|Deactivate two-factor authentication in Mi Account (if any)

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You've got to pay special attention to backup, and even if you don't plan on recovering data, you're better off playing safe.

• 📱 Built-in Tools: Settings → Google → Backup or Settings → Additionally. → Backup and reset.
• 💾 Third-party apps: Swift Backup (requires root), Titanium Backup (for older models).
• 🖥️ Computer: Copy files through MTP Or use Mi. PC Suite.

If you have Mi Cloud sync enabled on your phone, you can restore some of your data (contacts, notes, photos) automatically after resetting, but only if you remember your account password.

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

This method is suitable if the phone is turned on and you remember the pattern lock or PIN-The instructions are relevant to MIUI 14/15 (including HyperOS on new models):

1. Open the settings (cog icon).
2. Go to the phone (or device) about.
3. Select Reset (in some versions – Reset and Reset).
4. Smash all the data.
5. Enter the password from the lock screen (if required).
6. Confirm the action by clicking Reset Settings.

It takes 5-15 minutes, and when it's done, the phone will restart and suggest that you set it up as new.

⚠️ Note: On some models (Xiaomi) 13T, Redmi K60) After reset, you may need to connect to the Internet to check your Mi Account. If you forget your password, unlock the device in advance through the official website.

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Resetting via settings is the only method that does not require unlocking the bootloader and retains the ability to recover via Mi Cloud.

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

If your device is stuck on the logo, unresponsive or locked with a pattern lock, use Recovery Mode, which works on all models, including the POCO X6 Pro and Redmi A2+.

Instructions:

1. Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10-15 seconds).
2. Press the button combination: For most models: Volume up + Power. For older devices (Redmi 4X, Mi A1): Volume up + Volume down + Power.

Mi

Recovery

Use volume buttons for navigation and power button for selection.

Wipe Data

Wipe All Data

Confirm

Reboot

If the menu is in Chinese, focus on the icons:

• 🧹 — data-cleaning,
• 🔄 — restart.

5. Method 3: Fastboot Reset (for power users)

This method requires a computer and an unlocked bootloader. It is suitable if:

• 🔧 Recovery Mode is unavailable or damaged,
• 📱 The phone is blocked by Mi Account and is not checked,
• 🔄 You need to reflash the device after a failed update.

Instructions:

1. Install ADB and Fastboot on PC.
2. Turn off your phone and put it in Fastboot mode: Volume down + Power
3. Connect the device to the computer via USB.
4. Open the command line (cmd) and enter: fastboot devices (should display the serial number of the phone).
5. Run reset: fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache fastboot reboot

If after restarting the phone requires you to enter Mi Account data, use the official unlock tool:

1. Download the Mi Unlock Tool from Xiaomi.
2. Log in to your account.
3. Connect your phone in Fastboot mode and follow the program instructions.

⚠️ Warning: Unlocking the bootloader resets all data and can lead to loss of warranty. Newer models (Xiaomi 14, Redmi Note 13) require waiting 7-15 days after the account is linked to the device.

6. Method 4: Reset via Mi Flash Tool (extreme case)

If the phone doesn’t respond to other methods or is “brick-like” after a failed firmware, a full flashing through the Mi Flash Tool will help, which will remove all information, including firmware, and install a clean MIUI.

Procedure:

1. Download the firmware for your model from the Xiaomi Firmware website (choose the Fastboot version).
2. Unpack the archive in a folder without Cyrillic characters.
3. Install the Mi Flash Tool and Xiaomi drivers.
4. Turn your phone into Fastboot mode (Loudness down + Power).
5. Connect the device to your PC and in the Mi Flash Tool, select the folder with the firmware.
6. Press Refresh, then Flash (select Clean All option).

It takes 5-10 minutes, and when it's done, it'll reboot in the factory state.

1. Reinstall drivers manually through Device Manager.

2. Use another USB-port (preferably) USB 2.0).

3. run the program on behalf of the administrator.

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7.How to bypass Mi Account lock after reset

If after resetting the phone requires you to enter Mi Account data, and you do not remember them, there are several ways to solve:

• 🔑 Password Recovery: Go to account.xiaomi.com and use the Recovery feature (you will need access to an email or phone linked to your account).
• 📧 Call for support: provide a purchase check or a box with IMEI. Xiaomi can unlock the device within 3-5 days.
• 🔧 Passage EDL: requires special equipment (EDL cable) and Qualcomm 9008 command knowledge. Suitable for Snapdragon processor models.

For devices on MediaTek (for example, Redmi 10A, POCO M4 Pro) you can use the SP Flash Tool utility, but this is risky - if the phone fails, it can finally fail.

⚠️ Note: Sites that offer “Mi Account bypass in 5 minutes” often spread viruses or scam. Officially unlock a device without account data only through support Xiaomi.

8. Frequent errors and their solution

When resetting Xiaomi, users face typical problems. Here's how to fix them:

If none of the methods worked, contact the service center. On new models (Xiaomi 14 Ultra, Redmi Note 13 Pro+), self-repair may not be warranty.

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90% of Xiaomi reset errors are due to a locked bootloader or a forgotten Mi Account.Always check these points before starting the procedure.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions