How to reset Xiaomi Redmi 8 to factory settings: 3 proven ways

Resetting Xiaomi Redmi 8 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, blocking the Mi Account account or even “bricking” the smartphone. In this article, we will discuss all the working methods of resetting, including hidden nuances that are not mentioned in the standard instructions.

Redmi 8 (codenamed olive) has two reset options: through system settings and Recovery mode. The first is suitable if the phone turns on and responds to touch, the second is when the phone freezes or forgotten pattern lock.

Important: The procedure deletes all user data, including photos, messages and installed apps. Even if you have previously backed up through Mi Cloud, some settings (such as Wi-Fi passwords) may not recover. Before you start, check the exception list at the end of the article.

Preparation for resetting: what to do in advance

Before resetting Redmi 8, follow the mandatory steps to avoid losing important data and activation issues after the procedure:

• 📱 Create a backup through Settings → The phone. → Backup or manually copy files to your PC. Mi Cloud cloud storage does not store all data (e.g, SMS And the calls may not be synchronized).
• 🔒 Make sure to remember the data from the Mi Account. After the reset, the phone will require you to enter a login and password to unlock (Mi Cloud Activation Lock function).
• 📶 Disable all accounts (Google, social networks) in Settings → This will speed up the process and reduce the risk of synchronization errors.

If you drop your phone before selling, additionally:

• 💳 Remove Bank Cards from Google Pay and Mi Pay.

⚠️ Note: If Redmi 8 is equipped with custom Recovery (for example, TWRP), A standard reset via the menu may not return the stock firmware, in which case you will need a separate firmware through the Fastboot.

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

This is a good method if the phone turns on, reacts to touch and you have access to the menu, and the advantage is that there is minimal risk of error, because the process is controlled by the system.

Instructions:

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Go to the About Phone section. → Backup and reset.
3. Select Resetting → Delete all data.
4. Enter. PIN-code or pattern lock if the system requests.
5. Confirm the action by clicking Reset Settings.

The phone will automatically restart and start the cleaning process, which will take 3-7 minutes, and once completed, you will see the screen of the initial setup, as after purchase.

⚠️ Note: Some Redmi 8 firmware (e.g, MIUI 12.5 Enhanced) "Resetting" may be in Settings → System system → Additionally. → Reset. If you don't find a section, search by settings (the magnifier icon at the top).

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

If Redmi 8 is stuck on the logo, does not respond to touches or is locked with a pattern lock, use Recovery mode, which is a riskier method, since interrupting the process can damage system files.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10-15 seconds if it freezes).
2. Press the Volume Up + Power buttons at the same time and hold for 10-15 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 to select the item.
5. Select Wipe Data → Wipe All Data → Confirm.
6. Once you have finished, select Reboot → Reboot to System.

If the Recovery menu is in Chinese, focus on the location of the items:

⚠️ Note: If after reset via Recovery, the phone requests a password from Mi Account, and you do not remember it, the only way out is to unlock through the official Xiaomi service (a purchase check is required). Self-attempts to bypass the lock can lead to a complete loss of functionality of the device.

Method 3: Fastboot Reset (for power users)

This method is used if:

• 🔧 Recovery damaged or missing;
• 📱 The phone doesn't respond to the buttons;
• 🔄 You need to return the stock firmware after a failed update.

To reset via Fastboot, you will need a computer with drivers installed ADB/Fastboot original USB-cable (preferably from the set).

Instructions:

1. Turn off Redmi 8.
2. Press Volume Down + Power for 10-15 seconds until a screen with the Fastboot label and a picture of a hare in a hat appears.
3. Connect the phone to the PC.
4. Open the command line (Windows) or terminal (macOS/Linux) and type:

fastboot devices

If the device is determined (the serial number will appear), execute the command to completely reset:

fastboot erase userdata


fastboot erase cache




fastboot reboot

Once rebooted, the phone will be in a "post-purchase" state, which doesn't delete the firmware, it only removes user data. If you want a full flash flash, you'll need an additional command of the fastboot flash system with the original MIUI image.

1. whether Xiaomi USB Drivers are installed (download from the official website).

2. whether you use the original cable (cheap cables often do not support data transmission).

3. Try another one. USB-port (preferably) USB 2.0 on the back of the PC).-->

Frequent mistakes and their solutions

Even if the instructions are followed correctly, users face problems, and consider typical situations and ways to fix them:

If the Redmi 8 starts to warm up or discharge quickly after reset, this may indicate:

• 🔋 Battery wear (check battery health via ##4636## →"Battery information");
• 🤖 Background processes (turn off application autoloading in Settings) → Annexes → Auto-start);
• 📱 Damaged firmware (flash your phone through the Mi Flash Tool).

💡

If the phone is slower after reset than before the procedure, the reason may be memory fragmentation. perform optimization via Settings → Memory → Clean or use Xiaomi’s Security app.

What to do after resetting: initial setup

After a successful reset of Redmi 8, you will need to re-configure. Follow these guidelines to avoid errors:

1. Sign in to Mi Account: - Use the same data as before the reset, otherwise the phone may be blocked. - If you forgot the password, restore it through account.xiaomi.com before logging in on the phone.

After initial setup:

• 🛡️ Install an antivirus (such as Avast or Xiaomi’s built-in Security) and check your system for malware.

Alternative Resetting Methods (If Nothing Helps)

If the standard methods didn’t work, consider these options:

• 🔧 Download the official firmware for Redmi 8 (Olive code) from the site MIUI Downloads. - Use Clean All mode in Mi Flash Tool for full cleanup.

⚠️ Note: Using unofficial firmware (e.g. LineageOS or Pixel Experience) after a reset may result in loss of warranty and module problems NFC If you're not a power user, stay on the stock. MIUI.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions