Modern smartphones Xiaomi and Redmi have a huge functionality, but over time, even the most powerful system can begin to work unstable. Users often face a situation when the device begins to slow down, applications fly out, or simply need to erase all data before selling the gadget. It is at this point that the question arises: how to reset Xiaomi to factory state without losing important data or, conversely, how to do it as much as possible.
The reset process, or Factory Reset, is a radical but often the only true solution to software problems: It returns the MIUI or HyperOS operating system to the state it was in when it was removed from the box, eliminating accumulated digital debris, installed application conflicts and system file errors.
In this article, we will take a look at all the available methods for returning to the original settings. We will look at the regular methods through the menu, use the Recovery engineering menu for cases when the phone is not turned on, and also touch on difficult situations with forgotten passwords. Recovery (Hard Reset) deletes data even from internal memory, so having a backup is critical.
Preparing the device for a complete data reset
Before you take decisive action, make sure you have completed all the preparatory steps.Incorrect preparation can result in you being unable to activate your phone after a reboot due to Google or Mi Account protection. Make sure the battery is at least 50-60% as the formatting process is energy intensive.
The most important step is to create a backup. Xiaomi’s built-in tools allow you to save contacts, messages, call history and system settings to the cloud or to the cloud. SD-For photos and documents, it is better to use Google Photos or Google Drive to make sure that the media files are safe.
☑️ Checklist before reset
Remember to unplug your device from your accounts if possible. While modern Android requires you to enter your password after you reset (FRP protection), pre-exiting your Google and Mi Account account in the settings can make it easier to re-activate, and it’s also a good idea to remove the memory card if you don’t plan to format it with your phone.
Reset Xiaomi through system settings (Soft Reset)
The safest and easiest way to get your phone back to factory is to use a built-in settings menu, a technique called Soft Reset that works for most standard situations where the phone turns on and responds to touch, and ensures that all processes are closed correctly before cleaning.
To start, open the Settings app and scroll to the bottom of the list. You need to find the About phone item. Depending on the version of the MIUI shell or HyperOS, the interface may be slightly different, but the logic remains the same. In the About phone menu, look for the Reset or Erase all data button.
The system will warn you that all data will be deleted. If you previously set a screen unlock password, you will need to enter it to confirm the operation, then the phone will restart and begin the cleaning process, which can take from 5 to 15 minutes depending on the amount of memory filled.
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If you have the latest version of HyperOS installed, the path can look like this: Settings → Additional settings → Reset settings → Erase all data.
It is important to note that this method does not delete files from the memory card if it is installed, but deletes all the applications you have installed and their data. Once the procedure is completed, the phone will turn on as new, suggesting you choose a language and connect to Wi-Fi.
Hard Reset with Recovery Mode: Instructions for Advanced
If your smartphone is stuck, doesn't boot to your desktop, or you've forgotten your pattern lock, Recovery Mode comes to the rescue, a technique known as Hard Reset that allows you to reset at a deeper level, bypassing the operating system, and is often the only way to bring the device to life.
To enter this mode, you need to turn off your smartphone completely. Then press the volume button and the power button at the same time. Hold them until the Mi or Redmi logo appears, then release the power button, while continuing to hold the volume. A menu with several items in English or Chinese will appear on the screen.
What to do if the menu is in Chinese?
In the Recovery menu, the navigation is done with volume buttons (up/down), and the choice is confirmed by the power button. You need to select Wipe Data, then Wipe All Data and confirm the action by selecting Confirm. The phone will warn you about the loss of data again.
⚠️ Note: When resetting via Recovery, data is permanently deleted and it will not be possible to restore it with standard means.
After the cleanup is completed successfully, the top of the screen will show the message "Data wiped successfully." Click "Back to Main Menu" and then select Reboot → Reboot to System. The device will reboot and the initial setup will begin.
Comparison of Reset Methods: Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between Soft and Hard Reset depends on the current state of your device and the goals you are pursuing. Understanding the differences will help avoid unnecessary actions and potential risks. Below is a table comparing the main characteristics of these methods.
| Characteristics | Soft Reset (through settings) | Hard Reset (Recovery) | Reset via Mi Cloud |
|---|---|---|---|
| Availability | Access to the menu is required | It works even when the screen is off. | Need Internet and access to the account |
| Security of data | High (staff completion of processes) | Medium (forced cleaning) | High (remote team) |
| Difficulty | Low. | Medium (requires accuracy) | Low. |
| Use of the | Planned reset, sale | Hanging, forgotten password | Lost phone |
If your phone is working fine but you want to clean it before selling, always choose Soft Reset through the settings.This is a softer way that will properly untie some system anchorages. Hard Reset should only be used in emergency cases.
There is also a third option, a remote reset via Xiaomi Cloud or Google Find My Device, which is useful if the phone is lost but connected to the network, but is less convenient for everyday use due to the speed of the Internet and servers.
Solving problems: forgotten password and account blocking
One of the most common reasons users are looking for a way to reset Xiaomi is a forgotten unlock password or pattern lock, which is complicated by the fact that modern versions of Android have powerful protection against theft.
If you run Hard Reset on a device with a forgotten password, the first time you download it, you'll need to enter a password from a Google account that was previously synced to your phone, which is FRP (Factory Reset Protection) -- you won't be able to activate your phone without that data.
In the case of Mi Account, the situation is similar: if the phone has enabled a device search, after reset, you will need to enter a password from the Mi Account, this is done to protect your data in the event of theft.
⚠️ Note: There are no legal ways to get around FRP without password, except to recall details or provide purchase checks to a service center to confirm ownership.
If you bought a phone with your hands and it's locked by someone else's account, the only way out is to previously own it, and trying to use questionable software to bypass locks can make the motherboard completely inoperable.
Typical mistakes and recovery tips
During the reset process, users often make errors that can delay the process or lead to undesirable consequences, for example, interrupting the upgrade or reset process by turning off the phone can damage the system partition.
It is a common mistake to ignore a system update before reset. Sometimes phone problems are solved by installing an up-to-date MIUI and a full reset may not be necessary. Always check Settings → About Phone → System Update before drastic measures.
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Tip: Always back up your computer or cloud locally before any type of reset, which will save you hours of time to recover contacts and photos.
Two-factor authentication is also worth remembering: After a reset, you may need to confirm via WhatsApp or Telegram to log in to some apps (such as WhatsApp or Telegram). SMS or an authenticator application. SIM-The card linked to your accounts is active and is in your possession.
If the phone starts to run out or warm up quickly after the reset, give it time. During the first hours after installation, the system indexes files and optimizes applications, which puts a strain on the processor. Usually after 1-2 days of operation in normal mode, the situation stabilizes.