How to reset Xiaomi RedmiBook 8T to factory settings: 3 working ways

Resetting the Xiaomi RedmiBook 8T to factory settings is a necessary procedure when selling a device, fixing system failures or preparing for a new firmware. Unlike smartphones, where the process often boils down to several taps across the screen, laptops require a more careful approach: it is important to consider the version of Windows, the state of the hard drive and even the type of firmware installed (the original Mi OS or standard Windows 11/10).

In this article, we will discuss three official reset methods — through Windows settings, using Mi Recovery (a Xiaomi proprietary solution) and through BIOS. Particular attention will be paid to preserving Windows license keys and drivers, since after reset, they will have to be restored manually. If your laptop does not turn on or hangs on the logo, at the end of the article there is a section with a solution to such problems.

Preparation for resetting: what to do in advance

Before you start resetting, make sure you don't lose important data. Even if your laptop is unstable, try copying your files to an external drive or to the cloud, especially when it comes to:

• 📁 Personal documents from folders Documents, Downloads, Desktop
• 🔑 License keys (can be exported using ProduKey or Belarc Advisor)
• 🎮 Game saves (usually stored in %AppData% or C:\Users\Name of user\Saved Games)
• 📧 Email clients (e.g.,.pst files for Outlook)

If your laptop doesn't respond to commands or the screen doesn't turn on, skip this step -- but be prepared for data to be lost, and you'll have to reset via Mi Recovery or BIOS, as described below.

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If you are planning to sell a laptop, be sure to untie your Microsoft and Xiaomi account in the settings, which will prevent problems for the new owner with Windows activation and data synchronization.

Also check if you have:

• 🔌 Charger (reset process should not be interrupted due to discharged battery)
• 🖥️ External monitor (if the laptop screen is not working)
• 💾 Flash drive with Windows (in case you need to reinstall)

Method 1: Reset via Windows settings (if the system is booting)

This is the easiest method, but it only works if RedmiBook 8T is enabled and allows you to log in. Suitable for Windows 10 and 11.

1. Open Start → Settings → Update & Security → Recovery (for Windows 11: Start → Settings → System → Recovery).
2. In the "Return the computer to its original state" section, click Start.
3. Choose an option: 📛 "Save My Files – deletes programs and settings, but leaves personal data behind. 🧹 "Remove everything" - complete reset to factory condition (recommended for sale).

clear

Confirm the action and wait until it is completed (usually takes 30-60 minutes).

After the reboot, you will be asked to configure Windows as after the first installation. If the laptop was preinstalled Mi OS, you may need to re-install Xiaomi proprietary utilities (they can be downloaded from the official website).

⚠️ Note: If the error "There was an error when trying to reset your PC" appears during the reset, try to disable the system protection: go to the Control Panel → System system → System protection and click Set up by selecting "Disable System Protection." Then repeat the reset.

Method 2: Reset via Mi Recovery (branded Xiaomi solution)

Mi Recovery is a special recovery mode, similar to the Fastboot on Xiaomi smartphones, which allows you to reset your laptop even if Windows is not booting.

1. Turn off the laptop (press the power button for 10 seconds if it freezes).
2. Press and hold the F12 key (on some models, Esc or Del).
3. When you don't let go of the F12, press the power button. Hold both keys until the Mi logo appears.
4. In the recovery menu, select the language (usually English and Chinese).
5. Go to the Reset to Factory Settings section and confirm the action.

Instructions:

1. Create a bootable flash drive with Windows.
2. Put it in your laptop and restart.
3. When downloading, press F12 (or Esc/Del) to open the download menu.
4. Select a flash drive and follow the installer's instructions.
5. At the installation type selection stage, select "Selective: Windows Installation Only".
6. Delete all partitions on the disk (usually Disk 0) and create new ones.
7. Continue installation.

⚠️ Warning: After a clean installation, Windows will have to manually install drivers. 8T You can download them from Xiaomi's support page. Start with the chipset drivers and network card, then install the rest.

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Clean Windows installation is the most reliable way to fix viruses and system errors, but it takes more time and technical skills.

What to do if the laptop does not turn on or freezes

If RedmiBook 8T doesn’t respond to the power button or hangs on the Mi/Windows logo, try the following steps:

1. Hard reset: Turn off the charger, press the power button for 30 seconds, then plug the charger in and try to turn it on.
2. Battery check: Connect your laptop to the network and wait 10-15 minutes – the battery may be completely discharged.
3. Reset BIOS: Take the laptop off the grid. Remove the bottom cover (you'll need a Torx T5 screwdriver. Find the CR2032 battery on the motherboard (it powers the BIOS) and remove it for 5 minutes. Set the battery back up and turn on the laptop.

BIOS flashing:

irreversible

If the laptop still does not work after these actions, the problem may be in the hardware (for example, a malfunction of the motherboard or SSD), in which case we recommend contacting an authorized Xiaomi service center.

How to recover data after resetting

If you forgot to back up, you have a chance to recover some files with special programs, but success depends on whether the disk has been overwritten with new data.

• 🔍 Recuva – a free utility for recovering deleted files.
• 💾 EaseUS Data Recovery is a more powerful tool (there is a trial version).
• 📁 TestDisk – for disk partition recovery (for experienced users).

Important: Do not install recovery software on the same drive from which the files were deleted, which reduces the chances of success.

To recover Windows license keys:

1. Install ProduKey from NirSoft.
2. Start it (does not require installation).
3. In the table, find a line from your Windows – the Product Key column will display the key.

Frequent mistakes and their solutions

When resetting RedmiBook 8T users often face the following problems:

If your problem is not described in the table, check the official Xiaomi forum or leave a question in the comments - we will try to help!

FAQ: Answers to popular questions