How to completely reset Xiaomi: 5 working ways to reset to factory settings

Resetting Xiaomi to factory settings is a necessary procedure when selling a device, fixing software failures or preparing for firmware. However, not all users know that an incorrect reset can lead to Mi Account locking, data loss or even “bricking” a smartphone. In this article, we will analyze all the current ways of zeroing, from the standard menu to forced reset via Fastboot, and also explain how to avoid typical errors.

It is important to understand that the term “reset” in the context of Xiaomi implies two scenarios: soft reset (only user content is removed, the system remains intact) and hard reset (full formatting of the /data partition and returning to “clean” firmware). The choice of method depends on the goal: if you just need to clean the device before selling, the first option will suffice; if the smartphone slows down due to viruses or damaged system files, the second one will be required.

The article is updated for devices on MIUI 14/15 and HyperOS, but most methods work on older versions (for example, MIUI 12). For models with Qualcomm processors (Redmi Note 12 Pro+, Xiaomi 13T) and Mediatek (Poco X5, Redmi 12C) instructions are universal, but there are nuances with unlocking the bootloader - we will also consider them.

1.Reset preparation: what to do before zeroing

Before you reset Xiaomi, follow the steps to avoid losing important data or locking your device:

• 📱 Create a backup. Use the built-in Backup app (Settings) → The phone. → Backups or third-party tools like Swift Backup (requires root).Please note: Mi Cloud backups don't save some application settings!
• 🔒 Make sure that the Mi Account binding is disabled. If the smartphone is linked to a Xiaomi account, you will need to enter a login / password after the reset. → Xiaomi account.
• 🔋 At least 50% charge: Interrupting the reset process due to battery discharge may damage system files.
• 📡 Disable your Google Account (if you plan to sell your device) and remove the link to your account. FRP (Factory Reset Protection). Pathway: Settings → Google accounts → Delete the account.

If you forget your password or can’t remember your email, the device may require proof of ownership after reset — and without it, unlocking is only possible through the official Xiaomi service. In some regions (for example, in China), this procedure is paid and takes up to 7 days.

⚠️ Note: On devices with an unlocked bootloader, a reset via Recovery may result in a loss of TWRP If you use unofficial software, pre-create a backup of the boot partition via adb backup or OrangeFox Recovery.

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

This method is suitable for most users, as it does not require additional tools and preserves the integrity of system files. POCO on MIUI/HyperOS:

1. Open the Settings. → The phone.
2. Slip on Backup and Reset (in HyperOS, the path may be called Settings Reset).
3. Select Resetting → Erase all data.
4. Enter. PIN-code or pattern lock (if installed).
5. Confirm the action by clicking Reset Settings.

It takes 5 to 15 minutes depending on the model, and after you reboot, you'll see the screen of the initial setup, like after you buy it, and this method doesn't remove system updates, it's the version of MIUI/HyperOS that was installed at the time of the reset.

Make sure to disable Mi Account (if necessary)

Check the battery charge (>50%)

Create a backup copy of important data

Remember the password from the Google account (for FRP)

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If after reset, the smartphone requires you to enter Mi Account data, but you do not remember them, try to restore access through account.xiaomi.com. In case of failure, contact the section about unlocking.

3. Method 2: Hard Reset via Recovery Mode

This method is used when the smartphone is not turning on, getting stuck on the MI logo or not responding to touch.

1. Press the Power + Volume button up for 10-15 seconds.
2. After the Mi Recovery logo appears, release the buttons.
3. Use volume buttons for navigation and power for selection.
4. Select Wipe Data → Wipe All Data → Confirm.
5. Once completed, go back to the main menu and select Reboot.

Note: In HyperOS, the Recovery menu may look different – instead of Wipe Data, look for Factory Reset. On some models (for example, Xiaomi 12 Pro), you need to enter a password from Mi Account to confirm the reset, even if the device is not tied to the account!

⚠️ Attention: On devices with a blocked bootloader, a reset via Recovery can lead to the activation of an antirollback - protection against rollback on the old firmware. MIUI version cannot be downgraded, you will need firmware through Fastboot with official software.

Method 3: Reset via Fastboot (for power users)

This method is used when:

• 🔧 The smartphone does not load even in Recovery.
• 📱 You need to reset the device with the Mi Account locked (illegally, but it is possible on older models).
• 🔄 You need to run a clean version. MIUI/HyperOS slack-top.

To reset via Fastboot, you will need a computer with ADB/Fastboot drivers installed and the official firmware for your model.

1. Download the firmware for your model from en.miui.com (select the Fastboot version, not Recovery).
2. Unpack the archive in a folder on the disk C:\ (for example, C:\miui_fastboot).
3. Connect the off smartphone to the PC, holding Power + Volume down (Fastboot mode).
4. Open the command line in the firmware folder and execute: fastboot -w fastboot flash all Command -w clears the data partition, and flash all reflashes all partitions.
5. Upon completion, type in fastboot reboot

On models with a Mediatek processor (e.g. Redmi 10C or POCO M5), instead of fastboot flash all, use the command fastboot flash system.img, as full firmware can cause a FAILED error (remote: 'Not allowed in Lock State').

5. Method 4: Reset via Mi Account (remotely)

If you lose your smartphone or it's locked, but you have access to your Mi Account, you can reset remotely, and this only works when your device is actively connected to the Internet (via mobile or Wi-Fi).

1. Go to i.mi.com and log in.
2. In the Devices section, select the desired smartphone.
3. Press Find the device. → Erase the data.
4. Confirm the action via SMS or email.

Remote reset has limitations:

• ⏳ The process can take up to 24 hours (depending on the speed of the device connection).
• 📵 If the smartphone is turned off or without the Internet, the command will be executed at the first connection.
• 🔐 After the reset, you will need to re-authorize in the Mi Account.

On HyperOS models (such as Xiaomi 14 or Redmi K70), the remote reset may not work due to enhanced data protection, leaving only a call to the service center with a confirmation of purchase.

6 Unlocking after reset: what to do if you require Mi Account

If Xiaomi requests Mi Account data after zeroing out, but you don’t remember them, there are several ways to solve it:

• 🔑 Access Restoration. Go to account.xiaomi.com and use the Forgot Password feature?. You will need access to your linked email or phone number.
• 📄 Official unlock. Contact Xiaomi Service Center with a check to buy. In some countries (for example, in Russia), the procedure is free, in China - paid (~$10–30).
• 🛠️ Passage EDL (On models with a Qualcomm processor, you can flash the device in mode. EDL (Emergency Download Mode) with the Mi Flash Tool and official firmware, which violates the warranty and may result in blocking IMEI!

For devices purchased in China, unlocking Mi Account often requires confirmation via WeChat or a Chinese phone number, and if you don’t have access to them, the only legal option is to contact the service with the original box and check.

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If you buy Xiaomi with your hands, always check the status of Mi Account through Settings → Xiaomi Account → Device Status. If it says Device is tied, ask the seller to untie it before the deal!

7 Frequent errors in resetting and how to avoid them

Even experienced users face problems when Xiaomi is zeroed out, and here are the most common mistakes and solutions:

If photos or contacts are missing after reset, check:

• 📁 folder MIUI/Backup/AllBackup internal memory – sometimes backups are saved automatically.
• ☁️ Mi Cloud (if synchronization was enabled).
• 📧 Gmail (contacts could be synced to a Google account).

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If the smartphone after reset does not turn on or shows an error No command, do not try to flash it yourself without experience.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions