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

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 is one of the most popular mid-range smartphones, but even it can eventually start to slow down, issue bugs or require a complete system reinstallation. Resetting to factory settings helps solve most software problems, from bugs after an update to the consequences of viruses or failed experiments with root rights.

In this article, we’ll take a look at all the current reset methods for the Redmi Note 8 (including the Note 8 Pro and Note 8T), explain when to use, and warn against common errors, and learn how to return the phone to a “clean” state without risk, even if it doesn’t turn on or lock.

Preparation for resetting: what to do before the start

Factory reset is the complete removal of all user data from the device. Without preparation, you risk losing photos, contacts, messages and app settings.

• 📱 Back up. Use the settings. → Additionally. → Backup and reset or third-party services like Google Drive, Mi Cloud:
• 🔋 Charge the battery to at least 50%. interruption of the process due to discharge can cause a firmware failure.
• 📋 Remember the data of the Mi Account. After reset, you will need a second authorization, and without a login / password, it will be difficult to unlock the phone.
• 🔌 Prepare the cable. USB (If the reset goes through Fastboot, you'll need a reliable connection to your PC.

On the Redmi Note 8, resetting through the settings menu takes 5-10 minutes, and through Recovery it takes up to 20 minutes. If the process takes longer, DO NOT TRY to interrupt it with the power button!

⚠️ Please note: if you have used TWRP Or other custom recavities, a standard Stock Recovery reset might not work.

Method 1: Reset via the settings menu (the easiest one)

This is the main method that is suitable if the phone is turned on, you have access to the menu, and you remember the pattern lock./PIN-The instructions are relevant to MIUI 12/13/14:

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Go to the About Phone section. → Updating the system → tap the icon ⋮ (three points) in upper right corner.
3. Select Settings Reset.
4. Tap to erase all data and confirm the action by entering a password (if required).
5. Wait until the process is complete (the phone will reboot automatically).

Once you reboot, you will be asked to configure your device as new, and if you see a request to enter your Mi Account data on the screen, use the same login and password as you did before the reset.

Checked availability of backup copy|Battery charged. >50%|I know the username/password from the Mi-account|Removed. SD-map SIM (willingly)|Find My Device (if used) is disabled)-->

⚠️ Note: If after resetting the phone requires an old password that you do not remember, you will have to unlock it through Fastboot (see Method 3). Xiaomi associates unlocking with the Mi Account, so without access to it, it will be impossible to restore the device without access to it.

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, resetting via Recovery Mode will help. This method is also suitable if you have forgotten the pattern lock. Important: the device should be installed standard recovery (not TWRP!).

Instructions:

1. Turn off the phone (press the power + Volume increase for 10 seconds).
2. Press both Power and Volume Up until the Mi logo appears.
3. Release the buttons - you will be taken to the Recovery menu (navigation is carried out by volume buttons, the choice is by the power button).
4. Select the Wipe Data option → Wipe All Data.
5. Confirm the action and wait for the completion.
6. Go back to the main menu and select Reboot → Reboot to System.

If the phone doesn't turn on after the reset, the firmware may be damaged, in which case you'll need to reflash the device via Fastboot (see next section).

Method 3: Fastboot Reset (for power users)

This method requires connecting the phone to a computer and is used in extreme cases:

• The phone does not turn on or respond to buttons.
• Resetting through Recovery didn't help.
• You need to reflash the device (for example, after a failed update).

The work will require:

• A computer with Windows or Linux.
• Installed ADB/Fastboot drivers (you can download from the Android site).
• The original USB Type-C cable.
• Firmware file for Redmi Note 8 (download only from the official Xiaomi website!).

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off your phone. Squeeze Power + Volume down before the Fastboot screen comes on.
2. Connect your phone to your PC via USB.
3. Open the command prompt (Win + R → enter cmd) and check the connection with the command: fastboot devices If the device is determined (the serial number will appear), continue. If not, install the drivers.
4. For a full reset, type fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache.
5. If you need to reflash the device, use the command: fastboot flash all [name file firmware].zip (replace the file name with the current one).
6. Upon completion, type in fastboot reboot

Attention! Wrong commands in Fastboot can permanently damage the device. If you're not sure what you're doing, you better contact the service center.

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Before you run your Fastboot firmware, check the phone model with fastboot getvar product. Redmi Note 8 should answer with ginkgo, Note 8 Pro with begonia. Incompatible firmware will lead to a "brick"!

What to do after resetting: setup and recovery of data

After the successful reset of the Redmi Note 8, you will have to make an initial setup.

• 🔄 Don't miss updates. After reset, check for updates in Settings. → The phone. → Update system. Install the latest version MIUI Closing Vulnerabilities and Improves Productivity.
• 📲 Restore data from backup. Use Mi Cloud or Google Drive, but take your time installing all apps at once - this can boot the system again.
• 🔒 Set up protection. Set up a new pattern lock or PIN-Enable Find My Device in Google Settings.
• 🎯 Optimize Performance: Turn Off Animation in Settings → Special facilities → Remove animations. Limit the background activity of applications in Settings → Battery → Optimizing the battery.

If the phone is running slower than before, check:

• Free space in memory (should be at least 10% of the total volume).
• Processor Temperature (use the CPU Monitor app).
• Viruses (scan Malwarebytes or Dr.Web)

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After resetting, the Redmi Note 8 can run slower than usual for the first 1-2 days. That's okay: the system indexes files and optimizes background processes. Don't panic and give the phone time to "rock up."

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

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

• 🚫 Reset without backup. Many people forget that after reset, not only will the applications be deleted, but also: saved passwords in the browser, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth settings, game data (for example, progress in Genshin Impact or the game). PUBG Mobile.Solution: Use Mi Mover or Titanium Backup (requires root) for a full backup.
• 🔌 Interrupting the reset process. If you pull the cable or press Power during the reset via Fastboot, the phone can turn into a brick. Solution: Wait for the automatic reboot. If the process is stuck at 30.+ minutes, contact the service.
• 🔐 Mi Account forgotten. Once reset, the phone may require you to enter the account data that was previously linked. Without it, unlocking is impossible. Solution: Try to restore access via account.xiaomi.com. If you can't, contact Xiaomi with proof of purchase.

Another common problem is that you get this device is locked after you reset it via Fastboot, which means that the bootloader is locked, and you want to unlock it.

1. Apply for unblocking through the official website.
2. Wait 7-14 days (depending on the region).
3. Use the Mi Unlock Tool to remove the lock.

FAQ: Frequent questions about resetting Xiaomi Redmi Note 8