How to reset Xiaomi Redmi to factory settings: 3 proven ways

Resetting Xiaomi Redmi to factory settings is a necessary procedure when selling a device, fixing system failures or preparing for firmware. However, the wrong actions can lead to data loss, locking the bootloader or even “bricking” the smartphone. In this article, we will analyze all the current methods of resetting (through settings, Recovery and Fastboot), nuances for models with a locked bootloader, and also give a checklist for saving important files before the procedure.

Redmi devices feature MIUI Recovery with stripped down functionality on some models (e.g. Redmi Note 10 Pro or Redmi 12), which means that a standard reset via the menu may not delete all user data, and for a complete "cleanup" will require Fastboot. We will explain in detail when to use, and warn against the typical errors that users turn to service centers.

1.Resetting preparation: what to do before the start

Before you start resetting, make sure you follow the critical steps, which will prevent you from losing important information and problems with your Mi Account.

First, back up. Even if you're planning a virus reset, save:

• 📱 Contact and SMS — Export through Settings → Google → Backup or Mi Mover application.
• 📷 Photos/video – upload photos to Google or copy to PC via cable MTP.
• 🔑 Passwords and Tokens – Check the saved data in Settings → Passwords and security.
• 🎮 Game data – link your accounts to Google Play Games or Mi Account.

Second, unplug your Mi Account if you're selling the device.

1. Go to Settings → Xiaomi Account → Security.
2. Click the exit from the account and confirm with a password.
3. Remove the device from the list in the personal account on the site.

⚠️ Warning: If you do not unplug Mi Account before resetting, the new owner will not be able to activate the smartphone – you will need your login / password to unlock (Mi Cloud Lock).

Make sure the battery is charged > 50%|Save. IMEI (dial *#06#)|Disable Find My Device|Get out. SIM and a memory card if available)|Remember the password from Mi Account-->

2. Method 1: Reset via MIUI settings (most secure)

This method is suitable if the smartphone is turned on and reacts to touch, and if you do not plan to remove system updates. the procedure takes 5-10 minutes and does not require a connection to a PC.

Instructions:

1. Open Settings → About the phone → Reset settings.
2. Select Erase all data (on some models – Reset to factory settings).
3. Enter. PIN-code or pattern lock if requested.
4. Confirm the action by clicking Delete Everything.
5. Wait for the reboot (the device may be on longer than usual).

Once reset, the smartphone will suggest you set it up as new. If you haven't untied the Mi Account, the system can request account details to confirm ownership.

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

If your smartphone is stuck on the logo, does not respond to touch or is locked, use Recovery, which works even when the firmware is damaged, but requires physical access to the buttons.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off the device (clip Power + Volume up for 10 seconds).
2. Press Power + Volume up and hold until the Mi logo appears.
3. Release the buttons and you will be taken to the Recovery menu (English or Chinese).
4. Use Volume Down for navigation and Nutrition for selection.
5. Select Wipe Data → Wipe All Data (or Clear Data on older versions).
6. Confirm the action and wait for the completion.
7. Choose Reboot. → Reboot to System.

On some models (Redmi Note 9 Pro, Redmi 10), the Recovery menu may be in Chinese.

• 🔹 3rd item - data resetting ().
• 🔹 4th paragraph - confirmation ().
• 🔹 Point 1 - reboot ().

⚠️ Note: On devices with a blocked bootloader (Redmi after 2019), a reset via Recovery may not delete Mi Account data. In this case, after the reboot, you will need to enter a login / password.

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Method 3: Complete Fastboot reset (for power users)

This method deletes all data without recovery, including system updates, and is suitable for:

• 🔧 Removing critical failures (bootloop, DM-Verity errors).
• 📦 Preparations for customization ROM.
• 🔓 Unlocking the Mi Cloud Lock (if you forget your password).

The work will require:

• 🖥️ Computer with Windows or Linux.
• 🔌 Cable USB Type-C (original).
• 🛠️ Utilities. ADB Fastboot (download from Google website).
• 🔐 Unlocked bootloader (if the smartphone is new).

Instructions:

1. Turn off your smartphone and switch to Fastboot mode: pinch Power + Volume down.
2. Connect to your PC and check for device detection by command: fastboot devices (serial number should be displayed).
3. Run full reset: fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache fastboot format userdata fastboot reboot

On Redmi models with a MediaTek processor (e.g. Redmi 9T, Redmi 10A), the SP Flash Tool may be required instead of fastboot.

💡

If the device does not appear after the fastboot device command, install the Mi Flash Tool drivers or try another one. USB-port (preferably) USB 2.0).

5. Frequent errors and their solutions

Even when you follow the instructions, you have problems.-5 errors and ways of eliminating them:

If the device does not turn on after reset or is stuck on the logo, try:

• 🔄 Reflash the smartphone through the Mi Flash Tool (instructions for the official utility).
• 🔋 Check the battery charge (plug in to the RAM for 30 minutes).
• 🛠️ Take to the service center if the problem is hardware (e.g. damaged eMMC memory).

6.How to recover data after reset

If you have not made a backup, the chances of returning the data depend on the reset method:

• 📲 Reset via Settings: Data can be recovered using Dr.Fone, EaseUS MobiSaver or DiskDigger (unless overwritten).
• 🔧 Reset via Recovery: recovery is possible partially (photo, video).
• ⚡ Fastboot reset: data deleted irrevocably (format userdata method erases everything).

For recovery:

1. Connect your smartphone to your PC in MTP mode.
2. Use the 7-Data Recovery program (there is a free version).
3. Select the userdata section and start the scan.
4. Save the files found on the computer.

⚠️ Note: Do not install recovery software on the smartphone itself – this will overwrite deleted data and make it irretrievable.

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If you sell a smartphone, after reset via Fastboot, execute the command fastboot erase frp - this will remove the binding to the Mi Account and protect your data.

7.Reset on locked devices (Mi Cloud Lock)

If you bought Redmi handheld and it requires the data of the previous owner, there are 3 legal ways to unlock:

1. Contact the seller and ask to untie the device through the personal account.
2. Provide a check to support Xiaomi (if you have officially purchased it).
3. Reset via Fastboot (if the bootloader is unlocked):

fastboot erase userdata


fastboot erase frp




fastboot reboot

If the bootloader is locked, unlock it through the Mi Unlock Tool (requires Mi Account binding to the device for 72 hours). On Redmi models after 2020 (Redmi Note 11, Redmi 12) may require official permission from Xiaomi.

On devices with a MediaTek chip (such as Redmi 10C), the SP Flash Tool with auth-file firmware is sometimes used to bypass the Mi Cloud Lock. However, this method is risky - if mistaken, the smartphone can turn into a "brick".

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions