Reset Xiaomi Redmi to factory settings via buttons: the full guide

Resetting the Xiaomi Redmi smartphone to factory settings through hardware buttons is a versatile way to bring the device back to its original state when standard methods are not available. This approach comes in handy if the phone is stuck on the logo, locked with a pattern lock, does not respond to the sensor or does not turn on at all. Unlike software reset via a menu, the hardware method works at the firmware level and does not require access to the system.

The procedure is equally effective for all Redmi models – from the budget Redmi 9A to the flagship Redmi K60 Pro, but there are nuances depending on the version of MIUI and the type of processor (Qualcomm, MediaTek). In this article, we will analyze the step-by-step algorithm, possible errors and ways to fix them, and also tell you how to prepare for a reset so as not to lose important data.

Important: Hardware reset deletes all user data, including photos, contacts, messages and installed apps. If the phone is still turning on, first try saving information through Settings → About Phone → Backup or connecting the device to your PC.

When do you need to reset through the buttons?

Hardware reset is an extreme measure, which is resorted to in the following cases:

• 🔒 Forgot a pattern lock or password – the phone is locked and the Find Device function is disabled.
• 🔄 Cyclical reboot - smartphone is constantly turned on, shows logo MI and off.
• 🐢 Critical slowdown – the system lags even after restarting, applications do not open.
• 🦠 Viral Infection – The phone spontaneously installs apps or displays ads.
• 📱 Preparation for sale – you need to completely clear the device of personal data.
• 🔧 Failed update – after firmware, the phone stopped turning on or is not working correctly.

If the problem is related to a hardware malfunction (for example, a broken screen or a power button), the reset may not help, and in such cases, a diagnosis at the service center is required.

⚠️ Note: On Redmi models with MediaTek processor (e.g. Redmi) 10A, Redmi 9C) After the reset, you may need to re-authorize your Mi Account, even if it was disabled!

Preparation for resetting: what to do in advance

Before you start the procedure, follow a few important steps:

1. Check the battery power - the level should be at least 30%. If the phone runs out during reset, it can damage the firmware and "brick" the device.
2. Extract. SIM-card and memory card – this will protect them from random formatting (although the data on the data is not available). SD-The card is usually not affected).
3. Make sure you have a backup – if the phone is still turning on, copy important files to your PC or the cloud.
4. Find the username and password from Mi Account – after the reset, you may need to confirm the account.

If the phone doesn’t respond to the power button but is charging (the indicator is on), plug it into the charger for 15-20 minutes before resetting. On some Redmi models (such as the Redmi Note 11), when the charge is low, the reset via the buttons may not start.

Step-by-step: how to reset Xiaomi Redmi through the buttons

The reset algorithm is the same for most Redmi models, but may vary slightly depending on the MIUI version and processor type.

1. Turn off your phone – if it freezes, hold the power button for 10-15 seconds until the screen goes out.
2. Press the button combination: 🔘 Power button + Volume up for most models (Redmi Note 10, Redmi 9, Redmi) K50 etc.). 🔘 Power button + Loudness down for older models on MediaTek (Redmi) 4X, Redmi 5A).

Hold the buttons for 10-20 seconds until the Mi logo and vibration appear.

Wait for the Recovery menu

MIUI Recovery

Choose a language

Wipe Data

Confirm the reset

Wipe All Data

Confirm

Wait for completion

2-5 minutes

Reboot

Reboot to System

If the phone is loading for longer than 10 minutes after reset, do not interrupt the process. The first boot after hard reset can take up to 15-20 minutes, especially on low-cost models with slow eMMC memory.

Differences in reset for different Redmi models

While the general principle is the same, some Xiaomi Redmi models have features, and the table below shows the key differences:

On MediaTek models (like Redmi 10A or Redmi 9C), you may be asked to enter Mi Account data after a reset, even if you haven’t previously linked your account to it, because of Xiaomi’s security policy for devices on the chipset, and if you don’t remember the password, you’ll have to contact Xiaomi to unlock it.

💡

If after a reset, the phone asks for a Mi Account account, but you do not remember it, try to restore access through account.xiaomi.com. In some cases, a reset via Fastboot with FRP (Factory Reset Protection) removal helps.

Frequent mistakes and their solutions

When resetting through buttons, users often face typical problems, and let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them:

• ❌ Recovery Menu Not Opened Causes: Wrong button combination (try to hold power down) + Lower volume. Battery charge less than 5% (connect charge) Power button connector damaged (requires repair).
• ❌ Reset interrupted in the middle of Cause: Battery is out (plug charger and try again) Firmware is damaged (fastboot will need to be flashed again).
• ❌ After the phone is reset, the phone does not turn on Causes: Incorrectly selected option in the Recovery menu (you should have chosen Wipe Data, not Wipe Cache).
• ❌ Requires Mi Account after reset Reason: MediaTek-based device (requires account data input) Find Device was previously enabled (you need to untie the device via i.mi.com).

⚠️ Warning: If the phone shows an error This device is locked or Mi Account verification failed after reset, do not try to enter the password at random - after 5 unsuccessful attempts, the device will lock for 24 hours.

What do I do after the dump?

After a successful reset, the phone will turn on in a "out of the box" state.

1. Sign in to your Mi Account (if required) – on some models, this step is mandatory.
2. Set up your fingerprint/face – if you use biometric unlocking, add the data again.

If the phone is slower than before after reset, it's normal to index files and optimize performance, and in 1-2 days, the speed will return to normal.

💡

After reset, be sure to update the firmware to the latest version - this will fix possible bugs and improve the stability of the work.

Alternative discharge methods

If resetting through buttons didn’t help or the Recovery menu isn’t available, try alternative methods:

• 🖥️ Reset via Fastboot Requires a PC with drivers installed ADB Fastboot: fastboot devices fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache fastboot reboot This method deletes all data, but saves firmware.
• 📱 Find Device Reset If your phone is on and connected to the Internet, you can reset it remotely via i.mi.com. To do this: Log in to your Mi Account. Select the device in the list. Click Erase Device → Confirm.

Mi Flash Tool

If the phone doesn't turn on even after it's reset, it's just a complete flashing.

1. Download the official firmware for your model from en.miui.com.
2. Install the Mi Flash Tool on your PC.
3. Connect your phone in Fastboot mode (hold Power + Volume down when connecting to your PC).
4. Select the firmware and press Flash.

Reset via Fastboot or flashing is recommended only for advanced users. If you are not sure about your actions, it is better to contact the Xiaomi service center.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions