Resetting the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro to factory settings is a radical but sometimes necessary step to solve software problems, from freezes and errors to preparing the device for sale. However, the wrong approach can lead to data loss, blocking the Mi Account account or even “bricking” the smartphone. In this guide, we will analyze all the working methods of resetting (through settings, Recovery Mode and Fastboot), explain how to avoid typical errors, and give a checklist for safe preparation.
The Redmi Note 9 Pro (codenamed joyeuse) has some peculiarities in the reset process due to MIUI firmware and Mi Account protection. For example, after a hard reset, you may need to enter your login and password even when the sync is turned off. We took these nuances into account and added unlock instructions. Also in the article is a reset comparison table, FAQ for frequent problems, and tips for recovering data after cleaning.
When do I need to reset to factory settings?
Resetting is not a panacea, but in some cases it is the only solution:
- 🐢 Strong lags and brakes – if the smartphone began to “think” after the update MIUI installing applications.
- 🔄 Cyclical Bootloop – The device turns on, shows the Redmi logo and shuts off again.
- 📱 Preparation for sale – deletion of personal data (photos, messages, accounts) without the possibility of recovery.
- 🔒 Forgotten pattern lock or PIN-code – if other unlocking methods fail.
- 🛠️ Failures after firmware – for example, errors in the operation of the camera or module NFC post-refresh.
Before resetting, however, check for alternative solutions:
- 🧹 Clear the cache in Settings → Warehouse → Cleanup.
- 🔄 Restart your phone in Safe Mode (hold the power button) → "Restarting in Safe Mode").
- 📱 Reset your settings for the network only (Settings) → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Resetting network settings).
⚠️ Note: If the smartphone does not turn on at all (no charging response, does not vibrate when you press buttons), the problem may be in the hardware - the battery, the plume or the motherboard. In this case, resetting through Recovery will not help, you need a diagnosis at the service center.
Preparation for resetting: checklist for data retention
Hard Reset permanently deletes all data from internal memory, including:
- 📸 Photos and videos (including hidden folders) DCIM/.thumbnails).
- 💬 Communications in SMS, WhatsApp, Telegram.
- 📁 Downloads, documents and files in the Download folder.
- 🎮 Game savers (unless linked to Google Play Games or Mi Account).
- 📋 Settings MIUI, including themes, gestures and energy saving modes.
To minimize losses, follow the steps from the checklist:
Backup via Mi Cloud (Settings → Mi Account → Mi Cloud → Backup)
Copy photo/video to PC or external drive (use wire or Wi-Fi Direct)
Export contacts to VCF file (Contacts → Settings → Export/Import)
Record logins and passwords from accounts (Mi Account, Google, social networks)
Make sure your phone has enough charge (at least 50%)
Untie your device from Google Pay/Samsung Pay (if used)
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Pay special attention to the Xiaomi account:
- 🔑 If you don't remember the Mi Account password, the reset will lock your phone! re-access in advance at account.xiaomi.com.
- 📱 If the phone is linked to another account (for example, bought from hand), try contacting the previous owner to unbundle.
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Use the Xiaomi PC Suite app to create a full backup to your computer, even storing application data that is not synced to the cloud.
Method 1: Reset via the settings menu (soft reset)
The easiest and safest method is if the phone turns on and reacts to touch, suitable for eliminating software glitches without losing data on the memory card (microSD).
Instructions:
- Open the settings (cog icon on the desktop).
- Go to the About Phone section. → Backup and reset.
- Select Resetting → Delete all data.
- Enter. PIN-code or pattern lock (if installed).
- Confirm the action by clicking Reset the phone.
It takes 3-5 minutes, and after you restart, you'll see the screen of the initial setup, just like after you bought it.
⚠️ Note: If after resetting the phone requires entering the username Mi Account, and you do not remember it, do not try to guess the password - after 5 unsuccessful attempts, the device will be locked for 24 hours.
What to do if the "Settings Reset" item is inactive?
| Advantages of the method | Deficiencies of the method |
|---|---|
| ✅ No need for a computer or additional tools | ❌ It won’t help if the phone doesn’t turn on or hangs on the logo. |
| ✅ Stores data on a memory card (microSD) | ❌ It requires knowledge. PIN-code-key |
| ✅ Minimum risk of error | ❌ Does not delete data from internal memory completely (they can be restored by special programs) |
Method 2: Hard Recovery Mode (for hung phones)
This method is used if the Redmi Note 9 Pro does not load beyond the logo, cyclically reboots or does not respond to touches.No password is required to log in to Recovery Mode, but physical access to the phone buttons is required.
Step-by-step:
- Turn off the phone (hold the power button for 10-15 seconds).
- Press the power button + volume button at the same time.
- Hold them for 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo and Recovery menu appear.
- In the menu, select the language (English / Chinese) using volume buttons, confirm the power button.
- Go to the Wipe Data section → Wipe All Data.
- Confirm the action by selecting Confirm.
- After cleaning, select Reboot → Reboot to System.
If the Recovery menu is in Chinese, focus on the location of the items:
- 📛 The first item is reboot (Reboot).
- 🧹 The second item is reset (Wipe Data).
- 🔧 The third point is the connection with MIAssistant (PC).
💡
If you reset your phone with Recovery and you don’t remember it, don’t enter random combinations, you’ll be locked for 24 to 72 hours, use the official i.mi.com/unlock unlock tool (proof of ownership required).
⚠️ Attention: On some firmware MIUI Wipe All Data can be called Factory Reset or Clear Data. If the Recovery menu does not have the right item, then custom firmware is installed - in this case, use Method 3 (Fastboot).
Method 3: Fastboot Reset (for power users)
This method completely erases all memory partitions, including user data and firmware, and is needed in extreme cases:
- 🔧 The phone doesn’t even boot in Recovery Mode.
- 📱 Installed an informal firmware that blocks the standard reset.
- 🔒 You need to unlock the bootloader before the firmware.
The work will require:
- 💻 Windows computer (or Mac/Linux driverless ADB).
- 🔌 Cable USB Type-C (preferably original).
- 📦 Mi Flash Tool and firmware for Redmi Note 9 Pro (download from the official website).
Instructions:
- Turn off the phone.
- Press the power button + volume down button until the image of a rabbit in a fastboot mode appears.
- Connect the phone to the PC.
- Open the Mi Flash Tool, select the downloaded firmware (file with the extension.tgz).
- Press Refresh – the program must identify the device.
- Select Clean All mode and press Flash.
- Wait for the end (5-10 minutes). The phone will reboot automatically.
If the Mi Flash Tool is an anti-rollback error, you're trying to install an older version of MIUI than the one on your phone.
- Download the latest stable firmware for your model.
- Use Clean All and Lock mode (locks the bootloader after firmware).
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If the phone doesn't turn on after you've run through Fastboot (black screen, no vibration), try pressing the power button for 30 seconds. If that doesn't work, repeat the procedure with another firmware version (e.g. Global Stable instead of China Stable).
Frequent mistakes and their solutions
Even if you follow the instructions correctly, you can have problems.
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The phone is not included in Recovery Mode | Faulty buttons or battery discharged | Charge your phone for 30 minutes, try again. If the buttons don't work, use Fastboot. |
| After reset, asks for a password from Mi Account | Xiaomi account tied to device | Restore your password to account.xiaomi.com or use the unlock tool. |
| Can't mount /data error in Recovery | The file system is damaged. | Select Recovery Wipe Data → Format Data (this will delete everything, including firmware). |
| phone is stuck on startup logo after reset | Incompatible firmware or interrupted process | Repeat the reset via Recovery or run the original firmware through the Mi Flash Tool. |
If none of the methods helped, there may be a problem with the hardware:
- 🔋 Battery discharged or bloated – the phone may not turn on even after being reset.
- 🛠️ Damaged motherboard – for example, after falling or getting moisture.
- 🔌 Faulty power plume – the phone does not respond to charging and buttons.
How to check if there is a hardware problem?
Data recovery after resetting
If you don't back up, some of the data can be recovered using special utilities, but success depends on:
- 🕒 Time – the earlier you start your recovery, the better the chances.
- 📱 Reset method – after Fastboot data recovery is almost impossible.
- 🔒 Data overwriting – new files (photos, apps) reduce the chances.
Recovery programmes:
- 💻 Dr.Fone (Wondershare) – supports Xiaomi, restores photos, messages, contacts.
- 📱 DiskDigger – works directly from the phone (requires root access).
- 🖥️ EaseUS MobiSaver – Scanning internal memory via PC.
Instructions for Dr.Fone:
- Install the program on your PC and connect your phone via USB.
- Select the Android Data Recovery mode.
- Follow the tips to enable USB Debugging (if the phone is turned on).
- Select the file types to scan (e.g. Gallery and Messages).
- Wait for the scan to be completed and save the files found on your PC.
⚠️ Warning: If you sell a phone, don't restore it, which can lead to a leak of personal information. Use another device or cloud storage to check the recovered files.