How to format a Redmi phone: all ways to reset

Xiaomi’s current Redmi smartphones have a powerful MIUI shell or new HyperOS that can accumulate software debris over time. If the device starts to run slower, freezes, or you plan to sell the gadget, the only true solution is a complete reset. Formatting returns the device to its original state, removing all user data, accounts and installed applications.

The internal memory cleanup procedure requires care, as it will be impossible to return deleted files without a pre-copy. In this article, we will discuss all the methods available, from the standard settings menu to forced reset via Recovery Mode, you will learn how to properly prepare the device to avoid blocking your Google or Mi Account account.

It's worth noting that the term "formatting" in the context of smartphones is often confused with the usual deletion of files, but here we are talking about deep cleaning of the system partition. We will look at the nuances of working with different versions of firmware and tell you what to do if the phone stopped responding to commands.

Preparation of the device before formatting

Before we start taking drastic measures, there are a number of critical actions that need to be taken: ignoring this stage can lead to loss of access to the device or permanent loss of photos and contacts. Backup is the first and most important step that should not be missed.

Make sure you remember passwords from your accounts. Once reset, Android security will require authorization from the Google account that was the primary one on the device, an anti-theft mechanism that can't be circumvented by simple formatting.

⚠️ Note: If you do not know the password from your linked Mi Account or Google account, do not reset! you will get a locked device that will not be activated without the owner’s data.

It is also worth checking the battery power. The formatting process can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes depending on the amount of memory, and if the phone turns off when the system files are written, it can damage the bootloader.

Method 1: Resetting through system settings

The easiest and safest method available to every user is to use the built-in functionality of the operating system, which is suitable for those cases when the phone turns on, the screen responds to touch, and you can get into the menu.

The interface may vary slightly depending on the version of MIUI (12, 13, 14) or HyperOS, but the logic of the actions remains the same. You will need to find the section responsible for the general parameters of the device, usually located at the bottom of the list or in the About Phone group.

Once you log in to the recovery menu, you'll be offered several options. The system may suggest saving some data, but to clean it completely, like when you buy a new machine, you have to choose the option of completely removing it. The process will take some time, the phone can reboot several times.

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Before starting the reset via settings, turn off the Internet (Wi-Fi and mobile data) so that the system does not try to synchronize new data in the process of removing old ones.

Here is the step-by-step algorithm for most Redmi models:

• 📱 Open the Settings app on the main screen.
• 🔍 Find the About Phone or Advanced Settings section».
• 🗑️ Select "Settings Reset" or "Factory Reset».
• ✅ Click the “Erase all data” button and confirm the action with a password code.

Once confirmed, the system will begin the cleaning process.The screen may go out and light up again, the Redmi or Mi logo will appear.

Method 2: Formatting with Recovery Mode

If the touch screen is not working, the phone is stuck on the logo, or you have forgotten the pattern lock, the standard path through the settings will not be available, in which case the recovery mode comes to the rescue — Recovery Mode. This is a low-level environment built into the device's memory.

It is important to log in correctly the first time, as on some models, if you try unsuccessfully, you may need a password from a Mi Account that you may not remember. Charge your phone to at least 60% before starting the procedure.

Navigation in the Recovery menu is done with volume buttons (up and down), and the choice of item is confirmed by the power button. The interface here is minimalist, often represented by a list in English, so it is important to know exactly which item to choose.

Instructions for resetting via Recovery:

1. Turn off your smartphone completely.
2. Press the Volume+ button and the Power button at the same time.
3. Hold them until the Mi logo appears, then release the power button while continuing to keep the volume.
4. In the menu that appears, select English and click Wipe Data -> Wipe All Data.
5. Confirm the action by selecting Confirm.

Once the process is complete, select Reboot -> Reboot to System. The first run after such a reset will last longer than usual, sometimes up to 5-7 minutes.

Method 3: Reset via computer (ADB and Fastboot)

For advanced users or in situations where standard methods do not work, it is possible to format via a computer. USB-cable, Windows PC and installed drivers ADB and Fastboot.

This is especially true if the phone catches a bootloop and doesn’t even allow you to log into the Recovery menu, but it requires caution: the wrong command can turn a smartphone into a brick.

To start, you need to enable debugging via USB in the “Developers” menu if you have access to the system. If you do not have access, you can try to enter a reset command through the console when the phone is in Fastboot mode.

adb reboot recovery


fastboot erase userdata




fastboot erase cache

Executing these commands will completely clear the user data and cache partitions, which is analogous to formatting a hard drive on a computer, and after executing the commands, you need to execute the fastboot reboot command.

Solving problems: Phone requires account after reset

After successful formatting and enabling, you may come across an activation screen where the system requires you to enter a password from a previously synchronized Google account.This is FRP (Factory Reset Protection) protection, created to prevent theft.

If you type in the correct password, but the system writes "Verification Error" or "Incorrect Password," make sure the device has the correct date and time.

In some cases, especially on older versions of Android, it may be necessary to unlock through special service utilities, but on modern Redmi models with MIUI 12+ and higher, it is almost impossible to bypass FRP in legal ways without owner data.

If the device was purchased hand-held and requires a previous owner’s account, the only solution is to contact the seller to remotely remove the device from their trusted list.

Clean installation against normal discharge

Many users are wondering: what is the difference between a regular reset and a “clean installation”? a regular reset (Wipe Data) deletes the user’s files, but leaves system debris and possible errors in the cache sections.

Clean Install involves fully formatting all partitions, including system partitions, and loading fresh firmware, which is the most effective method of treating software bugs, but it is more difficult to execute.

To perform a clean installation, you’ll need a computer, Mi Flash Tool, and a fastboot firmware image (.tgz extension).The process takes longer, but ensures that any viruses or deep system errors are removed.

⚠️ Attention: Clean installation via Fastboot will unlock the bootloader on some global versions, which may result in a loss of warranty.

If your phone is stable but just filled with memory, a simple reset through the settings will be enough.

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A regular reset deletes your files, but saves the system version. A clean installation replaces the operating system itself with a fresh one, eliminating deep bugs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)