How to reset Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 to factory settings: the full guide

Resetting the Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 to factory settings is a procedure that can be required in a variety of situations, from preparing the device for sale to fixing software failures. However, not all users know that an incorrect reset can lead to data loss, locking the Mi Account account or even “bricking” the phone.

Redmi Note 8

ginkgo

Snapdragon 665

MIUI

Fastboot

Before you start, make sure you have a backup of important data.Even if the phone is not running smoothly, try connecting it to your PC and copying files manually.Reset deletes all user data, including photos, contacts, messages and installed apps.

If your Redmi Note 8 doesn’t turn on or is stuck on the MI logo, don’t panic – there’s a section on the recovery of bricked-up devices in the article, and the main thing is not to try to refashion the phone without preparation, as this can aggravate the problem.

1.Resetting preparation: what to do in advance

Factory resets are not just a single button push, but improper preparation can result in loss of access to the device (e.g., if you forget your Mi Account) or permanent loss of files.

First, check the Xiaomi account binding. Once reset, the phone will require you to enter the username and password from the Mi Account that was tied to the device. If you don't remember the data or the phone was bought with your hands, the reset can lock the device permanently. To avoid this, untie the account in the settings (Settings → Xiaomi Account → Sign out).

Second, back up. Even if your phone is buggy, try to save at least the most important data:

• 📱 Contacts: sync with your Google account or export to a file VCF.
• 📷 Photos and videos: copy to PC or cloud (Google Photos, Mi Cloud).
• 📝 Messages: Use applications like SMS Backup & Restore.
• 🎮 Game Save: Check if the game supports cloud backup (e.g., through Google Play Games).

If the phone doesn’t respond to touch or doesn’t turn on but is determined by a computer, try extracting data using programs like Dr.Fone or Tenorshare 4uKey for Android.

2. Method 1: Reset via the settings menu (the safest method)

If your Redmi Note 8 is on and touch responsive, it's the best choice, it doesn't require additional tools and is minimally risky, and it's relevant for all MIUI versions, including MIUI 12/13/14.

To perform the discharge:

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Go to About Phone (in some versions Additional → Recovery and Reset).
3. Select Resetting (or Delete all data).
4. Click Reset your phone settings and confirm the action.
5. When you request, enter PIN-code.
6. Wait until the process is completed (usually 5-10 minutes).

After the reboot, the phone will suggest configuring it as new, at which point you can restore data from the backup (if it was created).

Make sure the battery is charged > 50%|Unplug your Mi Account (if you plan to sell your phone)|Save. IMEI (dial *#06#)|Check for backup copy-->

⚠️ Note: If after resetting the phone requires you to enter Mi Account data, which you do not remember, do not try to find a password. After 5 unsuccessful attempts, the device can lock for 72 hours.

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

If the Redmi Note 8 is stuck on the logo, reboots cyclically or does not respond to touch, you will have to use Recovery mode. This method works even on locked devices, but requires care - incorrect actions can lead to loss of IMEI or damage to the /data partition.

To enter Recovery Mode:

1. Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10-15 seconds).
2. Press the Power button + Volume Up button at the same time.
3. Hold them until the MI logo and Recovery menu appear.

In the Recovery menu, use volume buttons for navigation and power buttons to confirm your choice. The interface can be in Chinese or English - focus on the icons:

• 🔄 Reboot - Reboot (do not choose!).
• 🗑️ Wipe Data or Clear Data – Resetting your settings.
• 📱 Wipe All Data – Complete Cleanup (Select This Item).

After selecting Wipe All Data, confirm the action and wait for the process to be completed. The phone will restart to its original state.

⚠️ Note: On some custom firmware (e.g. LineageOS or Pixel Experience), Wipe Data may work differently, only to delete cache, not user data. If you use informal firmware, check the reset nuances on the developer forum (e.g., deletion of the user's cache, XDA Developers).

Method 3: Reset via Fastboot (for power users)

This method is suitable if:

• 🔧 The phone doesn’t even boot in Recovery Mode.
• 🔓 You have unlocked the bootloader (Bootloader Unlocked).
• 🖥️ Access to a computer with drivers installed ADB/Fastboot.

Resetting via Fastboot is the most radical way, as it reflashes critical sections of the phone. Wrong commands can turn the device into a brick, so follow the instructions carefully.

Steps to reset via Fastboot:

1. Install the Mi Flash Tool and ADB/Fastboot drivers on your PC (you can download from the official Xiaomi website).
2. Turn off the phone and turn it into Fastboot mode: press the Power button + Volume Down button.
3. Connect the device to the PC via USB.
4. Open the command line (cmd) and execute the command: fastboot devices If the phone is determined (its serial number will appear), continue.
5. Run reset: fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache fastboot reboot

If the phone doesn't boot after these commands, the firmware may be damaged, in which case you'll need to completely flash through the Mi Flash Tool with a Clean All option option.

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Before working with Fastboot, check the bootloader version with the command fastboot getvar anti. If the answer contains anti: 3, your bootloader is locked and you will need official permission from Xiaomi to unlock.

5 What to do if after resetting the phone requires an account Mi

One of the most common problems after a Redmi Note 8 reset is a request for data from the Mi Account, which was tied to the device, which is the Mi Cloud Lock, and you can only legally circumvent it with your login and password.

If you have forgotten your account information:

• 🔑 Try to restore your password through the official account.xiaomi.com website (you will need access to the email or phone number associated with the account).
• 📄 If the phone was bought with hands, contact the previous owner and ask to untie the device via Settings. → Mi Account → Devices.
• 🛠️ In extreme cases, contact the Xiaomi service center with a check about the purchase - they can remove the lock after checking the documents.

⚠️ Note: Do not use "gray" ways to bypass Mi Account (for example, firmware through the Mi Account). EDL Mode or services of questionable services:

• Break the warranty.
• Lead to the loss of IMEI.
• Lock your device permanently (if your account is marked as stolen).

If the phone requires an account but you're sure you haven't tied it before, it may have been stolen. Check this with IMEI at imei.info.

Table: Comparison of reset methods for Redmi Note 8

7. Frequent mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when resetting the Redmi Note 8, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

🔋 Reset with low battery charge: If the charge level is below 30%, the phone may turn off during the procedure, which will damage the system files. Always charge the device to at least 50% before resetting.

🔌 Interrupt. Never remove the battery or turn off the cable. USB When you reset via Fastboot or Recovery, it can damage the partition. /data Make the phone inoperable.

📱 Use of informal firmware if you have installed custom software (e.g. Global) ROM If you're in China, resetting can cause a module conflict, and then the phone might not boot up after the reset.

🔑 Mi Accounts: As mentioned, a Xiaomi account can lock the device after a reset.If you bought the phone with your hands, make sure the previous owner untie your account.

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If the phone doesn't turn on or freezes on the logo after the reset, don't try to repeat the procedure many times. This can aggravate the problem. It's better to flash the device correctly through Fastboot or contact the service once.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions