How to reset Xiaomi smartphone to factory settings: 4 working ways

Resetting Xiaomi to factory settings is a radical but effective way to solve performance problems, remove viruses or prepare the device for sale. However, not all users know that an incorrect reset can lead to a Mi Account lock, data loss or even a “brick” of the device. In this article, we will analyze all the current methods of resetting – from the standard menu to forced through Fastboot – taking into account the features of different versions of MIUI and smartphone models.

It's important to understand that resetting doesn't always mean completely deleting data. For example, some Redmi and POCO models may have files in the MIUI folder or app cache after resetting, but hard resetting through Recovery erases everything without recovery, and we'll tell you which method to choose in your situation - and how to avoid the typical errors that cause users to lose access to the device.

When do I need to reset to factory settings?

Resetting is not a panacea, but in some cases it is really necessary. Here are 5 of the most common reasons why Xiaomi users resort to this procedure:

• 📉 Slowdown: Smartphone slows down, apps open long, although there is enough memory. Often it is the cache or conflicting updates that are to blame MIUI.
• 🔒 Preparation for sale: so that the new owner does not get access to your data (even after deleting files, they can be restored by special programs).
• 🦠 Viruses or malware: if the antivirus does not cope, and the device behaves suspiciously (installs applications independently, shows ads).
• 🔄 Errors after the update: for example, after installing a new version MIUI Sensors, cameras or mobile networks have stopped working.
• 🔑 Forgotten pattern lock or PIN: If you don’t remember the unlock password and your Mi Account is not tied.

However, a reset will not help if the problem is related to hardware malfunctions, such as a broken screen, a broken battery or a damaged motherboard. In such cases, it is better to contact a service center.

⚠️ Note: On Xiaomi models with a locked bootloader (most devices purchased officially), a reset via Fastboot or Recovery may result in a username and password requirement from Mi Account, even if you haven't used it!

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

This is a recommended method for most users, as it does not require additional knowledge and maintains a link to the Mi Account.Suitable for all Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO models on MIUI 12-14.

Instructions:

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Go to About Phone (or About Device on some models).
3. Slip on Backup and Reset (on MIUI 14 it can be called Settings Reset).
4. Select Resetting → Delete all data.
5. Enter. PIN-code or pattern lock (if installed).
6. Confirm the action by clicking Reset the phone.

It takes 5 to 15 minutes, and the device will reboot and suggest that you configure it as new, and all the data will be deleted, including:

• 📁 Photos, videos and music in internal memory (not in the memory) SD-map!).
• 📱 Installed applications and their data (save games, settings messengers).
• 📋 Accounts (except for Mi Accounts if linked to the account).
• 🔧 System settings (Wi-Fi, brightness, sound, etc.).

⚠️ Note: If you reset your device before selling, be sure to log out of your Mi Account in the settings (Accounts) → Mi Account → Otherwise, the new owner will be able to access your data through the cloud!

Make a backup copy of important data|Remember the username/password from Mi Account|Charge your phone at least 50 times%|Delete SD-card (if any)|Disable two-factor authentication in Mi Account (if you forgot backup codes)-->

Method 2: Hard reset via Recovery Mode (buttons)

This method will be useful if:

• 🔐 You forgot the screen unlock password.
• 📵 The smartphone does not turn on or hovers on the Mi logo.
• 🔄 You need to bypass system errors that prevent you from entering the settings.

To log into Recovery Mode, use a button combination that depends on the model:

After entering Recovery:

1. Use volume buttons for navigation and power button for selection.
2. Select Wipe Data (or Clear Data on Chinese firmware).
3. Confirm the action by selecting Wipe All Data.
4. Wait until it is completed (it can take up to 10 minutes).
5. Select Reboot to reboot.

On models with a locked bootloader after reset via Recovery, you may need to enter data from Mi Account, even if you have not used it before. This is protection against theft, and you can not get around it without a login / password.

Method 3: Fastboot Reset (for power users)

This is the most radical method, and it requires a computer connection, and it's suitable if:

• 🔧 You need to reflash the device (for example, after a failed update).
• 🔒 Recovery Mode is unavailable or damaged.
• 📱 The device does not respond to buttons, but is determined by the computer.

To reset via Fastboot you will need:

• 🖥️ Computer with Windows or macOS.
• 🔌 Cable USB Type-C (preferably original).
• 🛠️ Mi Flash Tool (download from the official website of Xiaomi).
• 🔑 Unlocked bootloader (on most devices it is blocked by default!).

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off your smartphone.
2. Press Power + Volume down until the screen with the rabbit in the hat-eared (Fastboot mode) appears.
3. Connect the device to the computer.
4. Start the Mi Flash Tool, press Refresh – the program must determine the device.
5. Choose Clean All (full reset) or Clean All and Lock (reset) + loader-lock).
6. Press Flash and wait until it is completed (5-10 minutes).

⚠️ Note: On devices with a locked bootloader, this method will not work without first unlocking through the Mi Unlock Tool. Trying to flash the locked device will lead to an anti-rollback error or "bricking"!

💡

If after reset via Fastboot the device does not turn on, try to pinch the power + Volume up for 30 seconds for a forced reboot. If that doesn't help, you may need to flash through EDL-Mode (requires an authorized Xiaomi account).

Method 4: Reset via Mi Account (remotely)

If you lose your smartphone or it is stolen, you can remotely reset it to factory settings via Xiaomi’s Find Device service.

1. Go to i.mi.com and log in.
2. Select the lost device in the list.
3. Click Delete Data (or Erase Device in English).
4. Confirm the action via SMS or email.

This method has limitations:

• 🔄 It only works if the device is connected to the Internet (via a mobile network or Wi-Fi).
• 🔋 The battery must be charged (if the phone turns off during reset, the process will be interrupted).
• 🔒 After reset, the device will not unlock – you will need to enter data from Mi Account at the first turn on.

If you reset your device before selling, it is better to use method 1 or 2 – remote reset does not guarantee complete deletion of data (they can be restored by special programs).

💡

Remote reset via Mi Account doesn’t work on devices with location services disabled or without internet access, and it won’t work if an attacker has already reset the phone to factory settings manually.

What do I do after the dump?

After a successful reset, the device will suggest that you go through the initial setup.

1. Skip the Mi Account binding if you sell your phone. If you keep it, log in to restore backups.
2. Update your firmware: go to Settings → About Phone → System Update and install the latest version of MIUI.
3. Restore data from a backup (if you did it through Mi Cloud or Google Drive).
4. Set up security: Install PIN-code or pattern lock. Enable data encryption in Settings → Additionally. → Encryption. Activate Find Device for remote management.

If there are problems after the discharge:

• 📵 Not switched on: try charging 30 minutes, then pinch the power + Volume up for 20 seconds.
• 🔒 Requires Mi Account: enter the account that was linked before the reset. If you forgot the password, restore it on the Xiaomi website.
• 📱 Brake after reset: Reset again (possibly the firmware is damaged).

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Many users experience problems after a reset due to ignorance of the nuances, and here are the most common mistakes and ways to prevent them:

To avoid most of the problems:

• 🔋 Charge your phone at least 50% before resetting.
• 🔌 Use the original cable when resetting via Fastboot.
• 📋 Save it. IMEI (dial *#06# before resetting - it may be needed to restore the network.
• 🔑 Make sure to remember your Mi Account information if your device is linked to your account.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions