How to return the Xiaomi smartphone to factory settings: 3 proven ways

Xiaomi’s factory reset is a radical but sometimes necessary step to solve software problems, prepare a device for sale, or eliminate the consequences of failed firmware experiments. Unlike a normal reboot, a full reset removes all user data, apps, and settings, returning the smartphone to the “out of the box” state. However, many users face difficulties: where to find the right item on the menu, what to do if the phone does not turn on, or how to avoid blocking the Mi Account after a reset.

In this article, we will discuss three official ways to reset — through system settings, Recovery mode and Fastboot — and also talk about the nuances that the manufacturer does not advertise, for example, why you may need to enter a password from an old Mi Account after a reset, even if you deleted it, or how to properly prepare the device so that you do not lose important data.

When you need to reset to factory settings

Reset Xiaomi to factory state is advisable in several cases:

• 🔄 Slowing down: the phone slows down, applications shut down spontaneously, and cleaning the cache doesn't help, often due to memory fragmentation or system process conflict.
• 📱 Preparing for sale or transfer: to prevent the new owner from gaining access to your data (photos, messages, passwords).
• 🔧 Software failures: after a failed update, custom firmware or root-rights installation, the device stopped turning on or is not working correctly.
• 🛡️ Removing viruses: if the antivirus detects malware that is not removed by standard methods.
• 🔒 Forgotten pattern lock or PIN: If you don’t remember the unlock password, resetting is the only way to reclaim access (but you’ll need to confirm your Mi Account).

However, resetting won’t help if the problem is hardware — for example, a broken screen, a faulty battery or a damaged motherboard — in such cases, repairs are required at a service center, and it is useless to reset the device if it is blocked by a carrier (for example, when buying “under contract” abroad), this restriction is removed only by an official unlocker.

⚠️ Note: On Xiaomi models with MediaTek processors (e.g. Redmi) 9A, Poco C31) After resetting via Recovery, an error may occur "This" MIUI version cannot be installed on this device. This is due to the bootloader lock. The solution is to use only reset via settings or Fastboot.

Preparation for resetting: what to do in advance

Before you reset Xiaomi, follow the steps to avoid data loss and activation issues:

1. Backup. Use built-in Settings → About Phone → Backup or third-party apps like Swift Backup (requires root). Note: Backup via Mi Cloud doesn’t store all data (e.g., SMS and calls may not sync).
2. Make sure you know the username and password from your Mi Account. After the reset, the device will require authorization, even if you logged out before the procedure.
3. Delete your Google account (if you plan to sell your phone). → Accounts. → Google and delete all associated profiles, otherwise the new owner may face a new problem. FRP-locking (protection against discharge).

For owners of devices with unlocked bootloader (bootloader) or custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience):

• 🔓 Save the file. persist.img (if IMEI or serial numbers).
• 📁 Copy the folder. EFS (contains data on the communication module).
• 🛠️ Make sure you have a working version. TWRP Or OrangeFox Recovery if you plan to restore the firmware after resetting.

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

This is a method that works if the phone turns on and you can log in, and it's the simplest and least risky method, because it's controlled by the operating system.

Instructions:

1. Go to About Phone (in older versions of MIUI - Additional).
2. Enter. PIN-code or pattern lock if the system requests.

It takes 5-15 minutes, and the phone will reboot, and you'll see the screen of the initial setup, just like you did after you bought it.

• 🌍 Choose a language and region.
• 📶 Connect to Wi-Fi (required to activate Mi Account).
• 🔑 Sign in to Xiaomi account (if it was tied before reset).

⚠️ Note: On Xiaomi models with MIUI 12+ After resetting through the settings, you may experience a “This device is locked” error if you previously enabled Find Device, the solution is to enter the Mi Account password or wait until you unlock it after 72 hours (if the account is not tied).

💡

If the phone asks for an old password after reset, but you don’t remember it, try to restore access through account.xiaomi.com. Use the linked email or phone number.

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

If Xiaomi doesn’t load beyond the logo, stays on the MIUI screen or doesn’t respond to touch, use Recovery mode, which is also suitable if you’ve forgotten your pattern lock.

Steps to Enter Recovery:

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 Redmi Note 8/9, Poco X3: Volume up + Volume down + Power.

Mi

Recovery

In the Recovery menu (in English or Chinese):

1. Use volume buttons for navigation and power button for selection.
2. Select Wipe Data (or Clear Data)
3. Confirm the action by selecting Wipe All Data (or similar).
4. Once you have finished, select Reboot → Reboot to System.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off the phone.
2. Press Volume Down + Power to enter Fastboot mode (a hare in a hat-eared hat will appear).
3. Connect your phone to your PC via USB.
4. Open the command prompt (Win + R → enter cmd) and check the connection: fastboot devices If the device is determined (the serial number will appear), continue. If not, install the drivers.
5. Run the reset command: fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache fastboot reboot

For full flashing (if you need a clean MIUI):

1. Unpack the downloaded firmware (file with the extension.tgz) in the folder with fastboot.
2. Launch the file. flash_all.bat (for Windows or flash_all.sh (for macOS/Linux).
3. Wait for the end (10-20 minutes) and the phone will reboot automatically.

💡

Reset via Fastboot deletes all data without recovery, including files in internal memory.If you need to save photos or documents, first remove the memory card (if you have one).

What to do after resetting: initial setup and possible problems

After a successful reset, Xiaomi will launch in initial setup mode. Follow the instructions on the screen, but pay attention to the key points:

1. Mi Account Activation: If your phone was linked to your account, you will need to enter your username and password. Without this, you will not be able to set up any further. If you do not remember the data, use the recovery function at account.xiaomi.com.
2. Google Services Setting up: Sign in to your Google account to restore contacts, calendar, and apps from Google Play. If you don’t plan to use Google services, skip this step (but some apps may not work).

Data recovery

• Connect to Wi-Fi and select Restore from backup if it was created through Mi Cloud.
• For a local copy (created through Settings → Backup), connect your phone to your PC and copy the files manually.

Possible problems and solutions:

If the phone is running slower than before the procedure, check:

• 🔋 Battery condition (wear and tear) >50% leads to brakes).
• 📱 Firmware version (update to the latest via Settings) → Update of the PO).
• 🧹 Number of pre-installed applications (on some Redmi models, you can turn them off via Settings) → Annexes).

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when resetting Xiaomi, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

• 🔌 Interrupting the reset process: If you take out the battery or turn off the power during the reset, the device can turn into a “brick.” Always wait for the procedure to be completed (the screen will show the message Success or the phone will restart itself).
• 🔒 Mi Account Password: Without your account details, you won’t be able to activate your phone after resetting.If you don’t remember your password, restore it before resetting through Xiaomi’s website.
• 📱 Unofficial firmware reset: If you used custom software (like LineageOS), a reset via standard Recovery can result in bootloop (infinite reboot). TWRP or Fastboot.

Pay particular attention to the MediaTek (Helio G) models, where a Recovery reset often results in an "SLA Authentification" error.

1. Download the official firmware for your model from the Xiaomi website.
2. Unpack it and find the file. auth_file.img.
3. Fluid through the SP Flash Tool (instructions are available on the 4PDA forum).

💡

If the phone does not see after the reset SIM-Check if the "only" mode is activated. 4G" in the network settings. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Preferred type of network and select 4G/3G/2G (motor-car).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions