How to reset Xiaomi to factory settings without a password: all working ways

Why resetting without a password is not always an easy task

A forgotten password on Xiaomi can become a real headache, especially if the device is enabled by binding to a Mi Account or data encryption. The manufacturer specifically complicates the reset process without authorization to protect user data from unauthorized access. However, there are legal ways to circumvent this protection – from standard Hard Reset via receptacles to using Fastboot and EDL service modes.

It’s important to understand that not all methods work on new Xiaomi models (such as the Redmi Note 12 or POCO F5), which are strengthened by protection against reset through third-party tools. In this article, we will look at 5 proven methods, including official and alternative ones, taking into account the features of the MIUI 12-14 firmware.

Before proceeding, make sure that:

• 🔋 Battery level not lower than 30% (risk of bricks during discharge during the procedure).
• 📱 You have a backup of important data (photos, contacts, messages) – a reset will delete everything.
• 🔧 I have a handy one. USB-cable and computer (for methods with Fastboot or Mi Flash Tool).

Method 1: Hard Reset with Recovery Mode (works on 80% of models)

The most versatile method is resetting through Recovery, which is suitable for most Xiaomi devices released before 2023, unless the Find My Device function is activated. The instructions are relevant for MIUI 12/13/14, but on some new models (for example, Xiaomi 13T), the recovery menu may differ.

How to start Recovery Mode:

1. Turn off the phone with a long press of the power button.
2. Press the combination of Loudness up + Power and hold for 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
3. From the Recaveri menu, select the language (usually English or Chinese).
4. Go to Wipe Data → Wipe All Data (on some models – Factory Reset).
5. Confirm the action and wait for the process to be completed (it will take 2-5 minutes).

⚠️ Note: If after resetting the phone requires you to enter a password from Mi Account, then the device has been activated binding to the account. In this case, additional unlocking will be required (see Method 4).

Method 2: Reset via Fastboot (for advanced users)

If the standard recovery is blocked or there is no Wipe Data, you can use Fastboot mode. This method requires a computer with ADB and Fastboot drivers installed, but allows you to bypass some of the limitations of MIUI. Suitable for Redmi Note 10/11, POCO X3/X4 and others with an unlocked bootloader.

Step-by-step:

1. Install Google’s Platform Tools (includes fastboot).
2. Connect the phone to the PC by clamping Volume Down + Power (Fastboot logo should appear).
3. Open the command line in the folder with platform-tools and type:

fastboot devices

(If the device is not identified, install Xiaomi USB Drivers.)

1. Run the reset command:

fastboot erase userdata


fastboot erase cache




fastboot reboot

⚠️ Note: Some models (Xiaomi 12 Pro, Redmi) K50) After this procedure, you may need to log in to Mi Account to unlock.If you do not remember your account details, use Method 4.

Method 3: Use the Mi Flash Tool (for bricks and serious malfunctions)

If the phone doesn't turn on or is stuck on the Mi logo, the firmware will help with the Mi Flash Tool.This method completely erases all data, including the password partition, but requires an unlocked bootloader. Suitable for devices that support EDL (Emergency Download Mode) mode, such as Redmi 9A, POCO M3.

What you need:

• 🖥️ Windows computer 7/10/11.
• 📁 Official firmware for your model (download from Xiaomi website).
• 🔧 Mi Flash Tool Programming.
• 🔌 Cable USB Type-C (for new models).

Instructions:

1. Unpack the firmware in a folder without Cyrillic characters (for example, C:\ROM\).
2. Install the Mi Flash Tool and Qualcomm drivers (if the phone is on a Snapdragon chip).
3. Put your phone in EDL mode: For working devices: enter adb reboot edl. For bricks: press Volume up + Loud down + Power for 10 seconds.

Mi Flash Tool

Refresh

Flash

Wait for the finish (5-10 minutes) and the phone will restart in factory condition.

💡

If the Mi Flash Tool gives you a Flash is not done error, try Clean All mode instead of Clean All and Lock. This will prevent the bootloader from automatically locking after the firmware.

Method 4: Unlock Mi Account (if required after reset password)

If after Hard Reset or firmware, the phone requests Mi Account data, then the Find My Device function was activated on the device. In this case, you will either need to remember the login / password, or contact Xiaomi support with proof of ownership (check, box, IMEI).

Alternatives:

• 📧 Restore access to your account via your linked email or phone number (the “Forgot password” link on the lock screen).
• 📱 If the phone was purchased by a used phone, ask the previous owner to remove the device from your Mi Account via the web version.
• 🔧 For models up to 2020, you can try to bypass the lock through EDL with authorized firmware (risky!).

⚠️ Note: Using unofficial services to unblock Mi Account (e.g., through Deep Flash Cable) may result in total loss of your account. IMEI or locking the device at the server level of Xiaomi. Officially unlock the account only through support with confirmation of purchase.

💡

If you bought Xiaomi with your hands and can't unlock the Mi Account, the only legal way is to contact the previous owner. Xiaomi doesn't remove the lock without proof of ownership.

Method 5: Reset via service codes (for older models)

On some Xiaomi devices until 2019 (Redmi 4X, Mi A1, Redmi Note 5) you can reset through the service menu. This method does not require a computer, but does not work on all firmware.

Instructions:

1. Open the Phone app and enter the code:

##7378423##

1. In the menu that appears, select Wipe Data or Factory Reset.
2. Confirm the action and wait for the reboot.

⚠️ Attention: On new models (MIUI 12+) Service codes are disabled or lead to a diagnostic menu without the reset option. IMEI) — It doesn't affect the settings.

What to do after reset: data recovery and setup

After a successful reset, you will have to set up Xiaomi first.

• 🔑 Link a new (or old) Mi Account to avoid future locks.
• ☁️ Enable backup in Settings → Xiaomi account → Mi Cloud.
• 📲 Install important apps via Google Play or GetApps.
• 🔒 Set up unlock by fingerprint or face (if supported).

Data can be restored after resetting:

• From Mi Cloud (if backup is enabled).
• Google Account (contacts, calendar, some settings)
• Using programs like Dr.Fone or EaseUS MobiSaver (only if the data has not been overwritten).

⚠️ Note: If you sell or transfer your phone after a reset, be sure to:

1. Delete all accounts (Settings → Accounts).
2. Untie the device from the Mi Account via the website.
3. Make Wipe Data again without any linked accounts.

💡

To avoid future issues with Mi Account locking, disable Find My Device in your security settings before selling your phone.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi reset without password