Reset Xiaomi Redmi 4 to factory settings: 3 proven ways

Why do I need a reset and when to apply it

Resetting the Xiaomi Redmi 4 to factory settings is a radical but effective way to bring the smartphone back to work, which removes all user data, apps and settings, returning the device to the “out of the box” state, most commonly used in three cases:

First, if the phone started to slow down or spontaneously reboot after the MIUI update. Second, in preparation for the sale, to delete personal information. Third, if you forgot the pattern lock or unlock password. But it is important to understand that the reset does not fix hardware problems (for example, a faulty battery or a broken screen).

Redmi 4 (Pro, Prime, 4X) has three reset methods: system settings, Recovery mode, and Fastboot. Each has its own nuances, from speed to battery requirements. Next, we'll go through them in detail, with warnings about possible risks.

Preparation for discharge: 5 mandatory steps

Before you reset the Xiaomi Redmi 4, follow these steps to avoid losing important data and issues in the process:

• 🔋 Battery charge at least 50%. Recovery resets can be interrupted at low charge, causing the device to "brick" (inoperability.
• 📱 Backup. Use the settings. → Additionally. → Backup and reset or third-party utilities (e.g. Mi) PC Suite Reset removes photos, contacts and messages without recovery capability!
• 🔑 Accounts: Make sure you remember the username and password from Mi Account - after the reset, you may need to log in.
• 📡 Wi-Fi network. If you reset through settings, connect to a stable network - the process may require data downloads.
• 🛠️ Tools. For methods through Recovery/Fastboot wire up USB PC with installed Xiaomi drivers.

Pay special attention to the Mi Account item. Some MIUI firmware requires you to enter a linked account after a reset, and if you forget the data, restore it in advance at account.xiaomi.com.

⚠️ Note: On Redmi 4 with bootloader unlocked, a Fastboot reset may result in a loss of ability to flash the device through official tools. Check the bootloader status with fastboot oem device-info - if the answer is Device unlocked: True, use only methods through settings or Recovery.

Battery charge ≥50%|Backup created|Extracted. SIM memory card|I remember the data from the Mi Account.|Cable's ready. USB (for Recovery/Fastboot)-->

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

This is a method that works if the phone turns on and you remember the unlock password, and it's the simplest and least risky method, and it's all done through the MIUI GUI.

Instructions:

1. Open the settings (cog icon on the desktop).
2. Go to the section Additional → Backup and Reset.
3. Select Resetting (on some firmware, the item may be called Reset and Reset).
4. Reset your phone settings and confirm the action.
5. If you ask. PIN-code or password - enter it.
6. Wait for the process to complete (5-10 minutes) and automatically restart.

After the reboot, you will see the screen of the initial setup, as after the purchase.This method does not require a connection to the PC and preserves the integrity of the system files, but will not help if you forget the screen lock password.

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If you reset your phone and you don't remember the old password, try connecting to a Wi-Fi network that your device has previously connected to, which sometimes allows you to skip authorization.

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

If Redmi 4 doesn't load beyond the logo or lock it with a password, use Recovery Mode. It's a special recovery environment built into the device. Importantly, there are two types of stock (official) and custom (TWRP) on Xiaomi Recovery. The instructions are different for them.

For the official Recovery:

1. Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10 seconds).
2. Press Volume Up + Power at the same time and hold for 5-7 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
3. Release the buttons and you will be taken to the Recovery menu (in English or Chinese).
4. Use volume buttons for navigation and power button for selection.
5. Select Wipe Data → Wipe All Data (or Clear Data in Chinese firmware).
6. Confirm the action and wait until the process is completed (the process will take 3-5 minutes).
7. Go back to the main menu and select Reboot → Reboot to System.

If you have a TWRP (Castom Recovery) installed, the path will be different:

1. Download to TWRP (similar to official Recovery).
2. Tap Wipe → Format Data.
3. Enter yes to confirm.
4. After formatting, press Reboot System.

⚠️ Attention: Redmi 4 with firmware MIUI 12+ After resetting via Recovery, an error may appear "This device is locked" means that the device is tied to the Mi Account. Unlocking will require entering a username / password or contacting Xiaomi support with proof of ownership.

Method 3: Fastboot Reset (for power users)

Fastboot is the most radical method, and it requires a computer connection, and it's used if the first two things don't work or you need to reflash the device, and you need to be careful, because the wrong things in Fastboot can turn the phone into a brick.

Step-by-step:

1. Install Xiaomi drivers and Mi Flash Tool on PC.
2. Turn off Redmi 4 and press Volume Down + Power for 5-7 seconds until the screen with the rabbit in the eardress cap (Fastboot mode) appears.
3. Connect your phone to your PC through USB-cable (preferably original).
4. Open the command line (Win + R → cmd) and check the connection command: fastboot devices If the device is determined (the serial number will appear) – continue.
5. Run the reset command: fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache fastboot reboot

For a complete reset with reflashing:

1. Download the official firmware for your Redmi 4 model from en.miui.com (select the Fastboot version).
2. Unpack the archive in a folder without Cyrillic characters.
3. In the Mi Flash Tool, click Select, specify the firmware folder, then Refresh (the serial phone number should appear).
4. Select Clean All mode and press Flash.
5. Wait for the completion (10-15 minutes) and automatic reboot.

This method is guaranteed to delete all data, including viruses and corrupted system files, but requires confident skills with the PC. If you have never used Fastboot, you better contact the service center.

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Resetting through Fastboot erases not only user data, but also system partitions. After the procedure, the phone will become "clean" as after purchase, but loses all MIUI updates. They will have to be installed again.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even when following instructions, users often encounter problems, and here are the most common mistakes and solutions:

• 🔄 "The phone is stuck on the logo. MI After reset, usually associated with an interrupted process. Solution: Repeat the reset via Recovery or run the device through Fastboot.
• 🔒 "Requires an old password after reset, meaning that the Mi Account is linked to the device, solution: enter the data or reset the password through the Xiaomi website.
• 📵 "Not defined in Fastboot – check the cable, port USB Try another computer or cable.
• ⚡ "Fast discharge after reset is normal for the first 2-3 days, until the system optimizes the background processes.

Another common problem is the appearance of Chinese characters after reset, which means that the firmware is for the China region, so you can run the global version of MIUI through the Mi Flash Tool or change the region in the settings (Settings → Additional → Region).

If the IMEI is missing after the reset (the phone does not catch the network), this is a critical error, often occurs when you use the Fastboot incorrectly. You can restore the IMEI only through an engineering menu or a service center.

Comparison of methods: which to choose

The choice of reset method depends on the condition of the phone and your skills. Below the table will help you determine:

For most users, the first method is optimal (through settings). If the phone is locked, choose Recovery. Fastboot leave for an emergency or if you plan to reflash the device.

Remember, resetting is not a panacea. If the Redmi 4 is caused by hardware problems (such as a bloated battery or a damaged motherboard), none of these methods will help.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions