How to reset Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 to factory settings: 3 proven methods

Resetting the Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 to factory settings is a radical but sometimes necessary solution. Perhaps your device started to brake after the MIUI update, got infected with a virus, or you just want to sell it by deleting all personal data. Unlike the new Redmi models with HyperOS, the process here is nuanced: for example, the Note 8 does not have the “Easy Reset” function through Settings → About the phone, and in some cases you will need a Mi Account.

Despite its apparent simplicity, an incorrect reset can result in a bootloader lock if the device is tied to a Xiaomi account and you have forgotten your password. This article provides current ways for the Redmi Note 8 (the ginkgo model), including bypassing the lock screen, as well as a table comparing methods on speed and security.

Before you start, remember that the reset will delete all the data — photos, contacts, messages and installed applications. Even if the releaser restores some of the information through the Mi Cloud, files from internal memory (such as screenshots or downloads) will not be able to return.

1.Resetting preparation: what to do in advance

Even if you are sure that the data is not important, check the binding of the Mi Account. After the reset, the phone may require you to enter a login and password from an account that was active before the cleanup. If you do not remember this data, you risk getting a “brick” – a device that does not turn on beyond the Xiaomi logo.

To avoid problems:

• 🔍 Make sure you remember the email and password from Mi Account. Check the binding at Settings → Xiaomi account.
• 📱 Make a backup copy through Settings → Additionally. → Backup and reset → Local backup. Save the file to your computer or cloud.
• 🔋 Charge your phone to at least 50%. Interrupting the reset process due to battery discharge can damage system files.
• 📡 Connect to stable Wi-Fi if you plan to reset via the settings menu.Recovery after cleaning will require downloading updates.

Special attention is given to the memory card, if it's installed, remove it before resetting. In some cases, the Redmi Note 8 can format it. SD-card as part of internal memory if configured as a storage extension.

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If you're selling a phone, go to the Mi Account on your computer after the reset and remove the device from the attached list, which will prevent the new owner from accessing your data.

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

This method is suitable if the phone is turned on and you remember the pattern lock or PIN-It's the simplest, and it doesn't require any additional tools. MIUI 12–14 (newer versions are not officially supported on Redmi Note 8).

Step-by-step procedure:

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Scroll down and select About Phone.
3. Click on the MIUI version several times until the notification “You are a developer!” appears (this will unlock the hidden options).
4. Return to the main Settings menu and select Additional → Backup and Reset.
5. Tap Reset settings, then Delete all data.
6. Enter. PIN-code or pattern lock for confirmation.
7. Wait for the reboot (it will take 5-10 minutes).

Once the phone is rebooted, it will suggest you set it up as new, and if you previously had a Mi Account attached, you'll need to enter your account details.

Checked binding Mi Account|Backup created|Charge level >50%|Extracted. SD-card (if any)|Stable Wi-Fi connected-->

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

If the Redmi Note 8 is locked, stuck on the logo or unresponsive to touch, Recovery mode will help.This method does not require access to the system, but has risks: for example, if you choose the wrong option, you can accidentally erase the boot section and get a broken device.

Instructions for entering Recovery:

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

In the Recovery menu, the volume buttons (Up/Down for navigation, Power for selection) are controlled.

1. Select Wipe Data (or Wipe & Reset in newer versions of Recovery).
2. Confirm the action by selecting Wipe All Data.
3. After cleaning, go back to the main menu and select Reboot → Reboot to System.

⚠️ Note: If after reset, the phone requires you to enter Mi Account data, and you do not remember them, do not try to guess the password. After 5 unsuccessful attempts, the device will be locked for 72 hours.

Method 3: Reset via Fastboot (for power users)

This method will be useful if:

• 🔄 The phone is getting stuck while booting and does not respond to buttons.
• 🔒 You forgot your pattern lock and your Mi Account is not tied.
• 🛠️ You need to reflash the device after a failed update.

You will need a computer with installed drivers. ADB/Fastboot original USB-cable (preferably from the set) All data will be deleted without recovery!

Step-by-step:

1. Download and install Google’s Platform Tools (includes fastboot).
2. Turn off the Redmi Note 8 and press Power + Volume down (-) to enter the Fastboot Mode (a picture of a rabbit labeled Fastboot will appear).
3. Connect the phone to the computer.
4. Open the command prompt (cmd) in the folder with the platform-tools and type:

fastboot devices

(The serial number of the device should be displayed. If not, check the drivers.)

1. Run the command to completely reset:

fastboot erase userdata


fastboot erase cache




fastboot reboot

If this device is locked after this procedure, the bootloader is locked and you need to officially unlock it through the Mi Unlock Tool.

⚠️ Note: Fastboot erase commands delete data irrevocably. Do not use fastboot erase system or fastboot erase boot - this will lead to loss of firmware and the need to re-install it via Mi Flash.

5. Comparison of Resetting Methods: Which to Choose

Each method has pros and cons, and the table below shows a comparison of key parameters:

For most users, the first method is optimal (through settings); Recovery is suitable if the phone does not respond to the screen, but turns on. Fastboot is an extreme measure requiring technical skills.

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If the Redmi Note 8 was bought hand-held and tied to someone else's Mi Account, the reset will result in a lock by any method, in which case, contact the seller for account details or Xiaomi's service center with proof of purchase.

6.What to do after resetting: setup and recovery

After a successful reset, the Redmi Note 8 will launch as a new one.

1. Choose the language and region (we recommend Russia for the correct operation of Xiaomi services).
2. Connect to Wi-Fi (required to download updates).
3. Sign in to Mi Account (if it was tied before reset).
4. Restore data from a backup (if it was created).

A few tips for optimal work:

• 🚀 Disable unnecessary system applications through Settings → Annexes → Application management (this will free up memory and speed up work).
• 🔄 Update your firmware to the latest stable version MIUI through settings → The phone. → Updating the system.
• 🛡️ Set a strong password or pattern lock (but remember it!).
• ☁️ Activate sync with Mi Cloud to make it easy to recover contacts and notes in the future.

If the phone is running slower than before, check:

• 📱 Internal memory (optimally leave 10-15 free%).
• 🔋 Battery condition (wearing more than 50% can cause lags).
• 🧹 Background processes (c Settings) → Battery → Battery usage displayed by 'gluttonous' applications).

7. Frequent errors and their solutions

Even if you follow the instructions correctly, you can have problems, and let's look at the typical situations and how to fix them.

Error 1: After resetting, the phone asks you to enter the Mi Account password, but you don’t remember it.

• 🔑 Try to restore your password through the Mi Account site (you will need access to an email or phone number).
• 📧 If recovery is not possible, contact the Xiaomi service center with a check for the purchase.

Error 2: The phone is stuck on the Redmi logo after being reset.

• 🔄 Try re-entering Recovery and repeat resetting.
• 🖥️ If it doesn’t help, reflash the device through the Mi Flash Tool (instructions are available on the forum Xiaomi.eu).

Error 3: In Fastboot, the fastboot device command does not show the device.

• 🔌 Check the cable and port USB (It is better to use the original cable and the rear port on the PC).
• 🔧 Reinstall the drivers ADB (You can download from the Android website).
• 🔄 Restart your computer and phone, then try again.

Error 4: The sensor or camera does not work after the reset.

• 🛠️ Most likely, system files are damaged. Try resetting them again through Recovery.
• 📥 If it doesn’t work, install the firmware again via the Mi Flash Tool (select Clean All option).

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If the Redmi Note 8 doesn't turn on at all after reset (no vibration, no screen lights), check the battery charge. plug in to the charger for 30 minutes, then try again to turn on.

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