Why do you need a hardware reset and when it saves
Resetting Xiaomi to factory settings through physical buttons is the last chance to bring the phone back to life when the screen is unresponsive, the system is getting stuck on the MI logo, or you have forgotten the pattern lock. Unlike software reset via the Settings menu β About Phone β Reset, the hardware method works even on fully locked devices where there is no access to the interface.
The main advantage of this method is that it is independent of the firmware state, whether the system is damaged after a failed update, whether the phone is attacked by a virus, or you just want to sell the gadget and delete all the data. Hardware resets Xiaomi at the bootloader level, returning it to its original state. However, there are risks: if you do not follow the sequence of actions, you can block the bootloader on models with HyperOS released after 2023.
In this article, we will provide current instructions for all Xiaomi lineups, including Redmi Note 12/13, POCO X5/F5, Mi 11/12/13 and Black Shark 5/6. We will discuss not only the standard procedure through Recovery Mode, but also alternative methods for devices with damaged recavers.
Preparation for resetting: what to do before the start
Before you start resetting, make sure you follow all the critical steps. Hardware reset deletes everything: photos, contacts, messages, installed applications and even files on internal memory (unless you use a separate microSD card).
- π Battery charge: at least 50%, and if the phone runs out during the procedure, it can cause the device to fail (totally.
- π± Backup: copy important data to a PC or cloud, and it won't be possible to recover it after resetting.
- π Accounts β remember the username and password from Mi Account if it was tied. Once reset, the phone may require authorization to unlock.
- π‘ Network β HyperOS models will require a Wi-Fi connection after resetting for initial setup.
Pay special attention to models with a locked bootloader (most Xiaomi, bought officially), on such devices, a hardware reset can lead to a requirement to enter Mi Account data even after completely zeroing. If you do not remember the associated account, it will be extremely difficult to restore access to the phone.
β οΈ Note: On Xiaomi devices with MediaTek processors (e.g. Redmi) 9/10/Note 11) Resetting through buttons can lead to a DM-Verity error, in which case you will need additional firmware via Fastboot.
Standard Reset via Recovery Mode: Step-by-step instructions
It is a universal method that works on 90% of Xiaomi devices, including old models on MIUI and new ones on HyperOS. The sequence of actions is the same for all lines, but may vary slightly depending on the version of the recovery.
To log into Recovery Mode and start the reset:
- Turn off the phone with a long press on the power button (if it does not respond, press the button for 10-15 seconds).
- Press the button combination: π Power button + Loudness up for most models (Redmi Note) 10/11/12, POCO X3/X4/X5, Mi 10/11). π Power button + Loudness up + Volume down - for Black Shark and some flagships (Mi) 12 Pro, 13 Ultra).
Hold the buttons.
MI
Fastboot
Mi Bunny
Choose a language
Wipe Data
Confirm the reset
Wipe All Data
Confirm
Mi Account
Wait for completion
Reboot
Reboot to System
I have login/password from Mi Account|
Backed up important data |
Charged the phone at least 50% |
Prepared a stable Wi-Fi connection (for HyperOS)|
Checked the button combination for your model-->
If after reset, the phone requires you to enter Mi Account data, but you do not remember them, try to restore access through account.xiaomi.com. On models with HyperOS, the Fastboot bypass may work, but this requires unlocking the bootloader.
Alternative Resetting Methods for Problem Cases
If the standard method doesn't work (e.g., the recapture is damaged or the phone doesn't respond to buttons), try one of these methods. They're more difficult, but often save in desperate situations.
1. Reset via Fastboot (for power users)
This method requires a computer with ADB/Fastboot drivers installed and an unlocked bootloader, suitable for devices that don't boot even in Recovery Mode.
Instructions:
- Connect your phone to your PC in Fastboot mode (clip Power + Volume down).
- Open the command line and type: fastboot devices Make sure the device is defined.
- Run reset: fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache fastboot reboot
What models support EDL-regime?
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even when following the instructions, users often encounter problems, and here are the most common mistakes and ways to solve them:
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Phone is not included in Recovery | Wrong button combination or damaged power button | Try another combination (see table above) or plug in a charge for 30 minutes |
| After reset, a Mi Account is required | Blocked bootloader or account binding in security settings | Restor your account or contact Xiaomi Service Center |
| DM-Verity Error After Rebooting | Damage to the system partition on devices with MediaTek | Swipe your phone through the SP Flash Tool with DM-Verity Check disabled |
| Phone hangs on MI logo after reset | Incompatible firmware or damaged partitions | Flip the official firmware through Fastboot or EDL |
If none of these methods worked, there may be a hardware problem (damaged flash memory, faulty power controller) in which case you should contact the service center.
π‘
If the phone doesn't turn on after reset, try pinching Power + Volume up for 20-30 seconds, sometimes helping to "wake up" the device after a failed zero.
What to do after resetting: initial setup
After a successful reset, the phone will boot in initial setup mode, as after purchase. On HyperOS devices, the process may be different from MIUI, but the overall sequence is as follows:
- Language choice β we recommend English, as Russian may not be complete on fresh firmware.
- Wi-Fi connection is required to activate Mi Account and check for updates.
- Sign-in: If the phone was linked to Mi Account, you will need authorization, and without it, no further setup will be possible.
- Data recovery β if sync with Mi Cloud was enabled before the reset, contacts and notes can be restored.
- Security settings β be sure to install a new pattern lock or PIN-code.
HyperOS models may receive a firmware update notification after a reset, and donβt ignore it, because the latest version of the system eliminates vulnerabilities and improves stability.
β οΈ Note: If you have reset your phone for sale, be sure to unplug Mi Account in your account settings (Settings) β Accounts. β Mi Account β Delete your account, otherwise the new owner will not be able to use the device.
Comparison of Reset Methods: Which One to Choose
Not all reset methods are equally effective, but here is a comparison table to help you choose the best option for your situation:
| Method | Difficulty | When to apply | Risks. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recovery Mode | β (simple) | The phone is switched on, but the system is unstable. | Minimum (Mi Account may be required) |
| Fastboot | ββ (middle-of-the-road) | The phone is not booted into the system, but is determined by the PC. | Possible to lock the loader on new models |
| EDL Mode | βββ (difficult) | The phone does not respond to the buttons ("brick"). | Requires disassembly or special cable |
| Service centre | βββ (costly) | All other methods did not help. | Financial costs, but guarantee of results |
If you are not sure of your abilities, it is better to contact specialists. For example, a reset via EDL on the Xiaomi 13 Pro with a blocked bootloader can lead to a complete loss of functionality if you do not follow the sequence of actions.
π‘
On devices with HyperOS (2023-2026), a hardware reset leads to a Mi Account requirement more often than on older MIUIs. If you don't remember your account details, use the reset only as a last resort.