How to reset your settings on Xiaomi: all the ways and consequences

Resetting on Xiaomi devices is a procedure that can be required in a variety of situations, from preparing a gadget for sale to fixing software failures. However, not all users know that there are several ways to perform this operation, and each of them has its own nuances. Depending on the model (Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Mi 11, etc.), the firmware version (MIUI 14 or HyperOS) and the current state of the device (whether it works, is locked) the optimal method is chosen.

In this article, we will discuss all the current methods of resetting, from the standard through the settings menu to forced through Fastboot or Recovery Mode. We will focus on the consequences: what is deleted during the reset, how to save important data and what to do if the device does not turn on after the procedure, also consider typical errors that can cause the reset to go wrong, and give recommendations for restoring the system.

Why you might need to reset your settings on Xiaomi

Factory reset is not just a cleanup of the device, but a complete deletion of user data and a return to the state of the box.

• 📱 Preparing for a sale or transfer – to prevent the new owner from gaining access to your accounts, photos or messages.
• 🔄 Elimination of software failures - if the smartphone began to slow down, spontaneously reboot or "glut" after the update.
• 🔒 Unlocking after a forgotten password – if you don’t remember the pattern lock or PIN-code (but remember the Mi Account information).
• 📦 Cleaning up viruses or malware – if the antivirus has detected threats that cannot be removed by standard methods.
• 🔧 Testing new firmware – some enthusiasts reset settings before installing custom ROM (LineageOS or Pixel Experience).

It is important to understand that resetting does not always solve hardware problems (e.g. battery failure or screen damage) If the device does not turn on due to a physical breakdown, the procedure will not help.

What is removed when discharged and what remains

Many users are afraid to reset for fear of losing important data, so let's look at what's being erased and what's left intact:

Critical moment: if the device is enabled data encryption (the option "Encrypt phone" in Settings) → Security, and once reset, it's impossible to decrypt files without a password. SD-cards, if they were encrypted.

To avoid losing important data, before resetting:

1. Make a backup through Settings → About Phone → Backup.
2. Copy photos and documents to your computer or cloud (Google Drive, Mi Cloud).
3. Make sure your contacts and calendars are synced with your account.

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If you're using Mi Cloud, check if there's enough space for a backup.The free fare is limited to 5GB, and a full backup of a modern smartphone can weigh 10-20GB.

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

If the device is stable and you remember the unlock password, this is the best option. It requires no additional tools and is minimally risky.

Instructions for MIUI 14 and HyperOS:

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Go to the About Phone (or About the Tablet Device) section.
3. Select Backup and Reset → Resetting.
4. Click Delete all data (entry may be required) PIN-code).
5. Confirm the action by selecting Reset settings.

It takes 5-15 minutes depending on the model, and the device will reboot and offer to go through the initial setup, as after purchase.

Make a backup copy of important data|Charge the device to at least 50%|Make sure you remember the password from your Mi Account|Untie the device from Google Akkaunt (if you plan to sell)-->

On some models (e.g. Redmi 10C or POCO M4 Pro) the path may be slightly different:

Settings → Additional → Recovery and Reset → Resetting settings

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

If your smartphone is locked, stuck on the logo or unresponsive to touch, resetting through Recovery Mode will help, a method that works even without entering a password, but requires care.

Steps to Enter Recovery Mode:

1. Turn off the device (press the power button for 10-15 seconds).
2. Press the button combination: For most models: Volume up + Power. For POCO F3/F4: Volume down + Power. For Mi 11 Ultra: Volume up + Volume down + Power.

Mi

Recovery

In the Recovery menu, use volume buttons for navigation and power button for confirmation.

Wipe Data → Wipe All Data → Confirm

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If you don't have Wipe Data in the Recovery menu, you have custom recovery (such as TWRP), in which case you can choose Factory Reset or Format Data.

Once the procedure is complete, the device will automatically restart, and the first launch can take up to 10 minutes — that's normal.

⚠️ Note: On some models (Redmi Note 9 Pro, Mi) 10T) After resetting via Recovery, you may need to enter data from Mi Account if the account link was previously activated!

Method 3: Fastboot Reset (for power users)

This method is suitable if:

• 🔧 The device does not load even in Recovery Mode.
• 📥 You need to stitch stock firmware over the custom room.
• 🔒 You need to bypass the Mi Account lock (only for unlocked bootloader!).

The work will require:

• A computer with Xiaomi drivers installed and the Mi Flash Tool tool.
• USB Type-C cable (preferably original)
• Firmware file for your model (you can download on the official website).

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off the device.
2. Press Volume Down + Power to enter Fastboot Mode (a hare in a hat-eared image will appear).
3. Connect your smartphone to your PC.
4. Launch the Mi Flash Tool, select the downloaded firmware and press Flash.
5. Wait until the process is completed (usually 5-10 minutes).

Once firmware is in place, the device will automatically reset and restart, a method that guarantees that it will delete all data, including viruses and corrupted system files, but requires technical skills.

⚠️ Note: Firmware through Fastboot on devices with a locked bootloader will result in a "brick" (complete failure). OEM unlock).

What to do after resetting: initial setup

After a successful reset, the device will offer to go through the initial setup procedure.

1. Language and Region Choice – If you choose a region other than Russia/CIS, some features (such as Mi Pay or Mi Video) may not work properly.
2. Wi-Fi connection – without the internet, you can’t recover data from the cloud or download updates.
3. Log in to accounts: 🔑 Mi Account – mandatory for synchronizing notes, themes and some settings. 📧 Google Account – You need to access Play Market and backups.

Data recovery

If you reset your device before selling, don’t sign in to your accounts — just skip this step by selecting “Miss” or “Set up later.”

At the stage of setting it is also possible:

• 📱 Enable debugging on USB (for future manipulations through ADB).
• 🔒 Set up face unlock/print (if you plan to use the device further).
• 📴 Activate Developer Mode (7 taps by build number in Settings) → The phone).

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If after reset, the device began to work slower than before, perform additional optimization: turn off animation in the developer settings (Window animation = 0.5x) and clear the cache through Settings → Storage → Clear cache.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even a simple procedure like resetting can go wrong, and here are the most common problems and solutions.

If the device does not turn on at all after reset (black screen, no response to buttons), this may indicate:

• 🔋 Full battery discharge - connect to charging on 30-60 minute.
• 🔧 Firmware damage – Fastboot flashing is required.
• 💥 Hardware failure – if the reset was performed on a faulty device, the memory controller may have been disabled.

⚠️ Note: If you are selling a device and resetting through Recovery or Fastboot, the new owner may face a requirement to enter data from your Mi Account. To avoid this, be sure to untie the device from your account before the reset: Settings → Mi Account → Delete the account.

FAQ: Frequent questions about resetting Xiaomi settings