How to reset Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro to factory settings: detailed guide

Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro is one of the most popular smartphones of the brand, but even it eventually begins to slow down, glitch or require a complete reboot of the system. Resetting to factory settings helps return the device to its original performance, eliminate software errors or prepare the phone for sale. However, an improper reset can lead to data loss, blocking the Mi Account account or even β€œbricking” the device.

In this article, we will discuss three official ways to reset: through phone settings, Recovery mode and Fastboot. Each method is suitable for different situations - from simple cleaning before selling to recovering from a firmware failure. You will also learn how to bypass the Mi Account lock after a reset (if the phone was linked to an account), and what to do if the smartphone does not turn on or hovers on the logo.

We warn you right away: the reset deletes all the data β€” photos, contacts, messages and installed applications. If you don't back up, it won't be possible to restore the information, so the first step is to save important files.

1.Reset preparation: how to save data and avoid errors

Before you drop the Redmi Note 8 Pro, make sure that:

  • πŸ“± The phone is charged at least 50% (when reset via Recovery or Fastboot, the discharge can interrupt the process).
  • πŸ”’ You remember the username and password from Mi Account (if the phone is linked to a Xiaomi account).
  • πŸ“ Important files are copied to a computer or cloud (photos, documents, contacts).
  • πŸ”Œ You have the original. USB-cable (for reset via Fastboot).

To back up data, use:

  • πŸ–₯️ Mi PC Suite – official software from Xiaomi for backup to your computer.
  • ☁️ Google Drive or Mi Cloud – to save contacts, photos and notes.
  • πŸ“± Built-in Settings function β†’ The phone. β†’ Backup.

⚠️ Note: If you reset your phone before selling, be sure to log out of Mi Account in the settings (Settings) β†’ Xiaomi account β†’ Otherwise, the new owner will not be able to use the device!

If you have forgotten the password from Mi Account, restore it on the official website before reset. After cleaning the phone, it will be more difficult to log into the account - you will need confirmation via SMS or email.

πŸ“Š Why do you want to reset the Redmi Note 8 Pro?
Phone's slowing down.
I'm getting ready to sell.
Forgot the pattern lock
Failure after update
Other

2. Method 1: Reset via phone settings (the easiest)

This method is suitable if:

  • πŸ“± The phone is turned on and reacts to touch.
  • πŸ”“ You know the pattern lock or PIN-code.
  • πŸ”„ Want to quickly clean your device without a computer.

Instructions:

  1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
  2. Go to About Phone β†’ Backup and Reset.
  3. Select Resetting β†’ Delete all data.
  4. Enter. PIN-code or pattern lock (if requested).
  5. Confirm the action by clicking Reset the phone.

It takes 5-10 minutes, and when you reboot, it's like new, and you'll need to reset your language, your Wi-Fi, and your Google account.

β˜‘οΈ What to check before resetting through settings

Done: 0 / 4

⚠️ Note: If after resetting the phone requires you to enter the data of the Mi Account, which was previously tied, but you do not remember them - restore the account through the official website!

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If the phone is slowing down and doesn't respond to touch, try plugging it into charging for 10 to 15 minutes, sometimes a discharged battery prevents it from resetting properly.

3. Method 2: Reset via Recovery Mode (if the phone is not turned on)

This method will be useful if:

  • πŸ”„ The phone is getting stuck on the Redmi logo or MIUI.
  • πŸ”“ You have forgotten the pattern lock or PIN-code.
  • πŸ“± The screen does not respond to touch, but the device is turned on.

To enter Recovery Mode:

  1. Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10-15 seconds if it freezes).
  2. Press the Power button + Volume up at the same time.
  3. Hold until the MI logo and Recovery menu appear.

In the Recovery menu, use volume buttons for navigation and power button for selection.

  1. Select Wipe Data (or Clear Data in newer versions).
  2. Confirm the action by selecting Wipe All Data.
  3. After cleaning, go back to the main menu and select Reboot β†’ Reboot to System.

If you need to enter a password in the Recovery menu, but you don't remember it, that won't work, and then you only have to use Fastboot (mode 3).

Problem.Decision
Phone is not included in RecoveryRepeat the button combination or check the battery.
Chinese menuLook for characters "" (data cleansing) or "" (reboot).
After reset, the phone asks for a Mi AccountRestor access to your account or contact the service center.
Discharge interrupted due to dischargeCharge your phone to at least 30% and repeat the procedure.
What to do if Recovery Mode asks for a password?
If the phone requests a password in the Recovery menu, it means that FRP (Factory Reset Protection) protection is enabled. In this case, resetting via Recovery is impossible - use method 3 (Fastboot) or contact the service center.

Method 3: Reset via Fastboot (for power users)

This is the most reliable method, but it requires a computer and drivers installed.

  • πŸ”§ The phone is not turned on or got stuck on the boot.
  • πŸ”’ Recovery Mode asks for a password.
  • πŸ“± You must ensure that all partitions (including userdata and cache) are cleared).

To reset via Fastboot, you will need:

  • πŸ–₯️ Windows computer (or Mac/Linux fixed ADB).
  • πŸ”Œ Original. USB-cable (poor cables may interrupt the connection).
  • πŸ› οΈ The Mi Flash Tool or ADB/Fastboot.

Step-by-step:

  1. Download and install the Mi Flash Tool (the official utility from Xiaomi).
  2. Turn off the phone and put it into Fastboot mode: Press the power button + volume down for 10 seconds.
  3. Connect the phone to the computer.
  4. Open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac/Linux) and type: fastboot devices If the device is identified (the serial number appears), continue. If not, install the drivers from here.
  5. Enter the command to completely reset: fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache fastboot reboot

Once the commands are executed, the phone will restart and be completely cleaned. If you need to reflash the device (for example, after a failed update), use the Mi Flash Tool with the official firmware for the Redmi Note 8 Pro.

⚠️ Warning: Continuous use of Fastboot without experience can lead to loss IMEI If you're not sure, you can call the service center.

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Fastboot reset is the only way to bypass Mi Account lock if you forget your password, but after the procedure, the phone may require you to re-activate your account when you first turn on.

5.What to do after resetting: setting up and recovering data

After a successful reset, the Redmi Note 8 Pro will turn on in initial settings.

  1. Choose a language and region.
  2. Connect to the Wi-Fi network.
  3. Sign in to Google account (required, otherwise you will not have access to the Play Market).
  4. If necessary, log in to Mi Account (if the phone was previously tied).
  5. Restore data from a backup (if it was created).

If there are problems after the discharge:

  • πŸ”„ Phone's off. β†’ Check charging or reset via Fastboot.
  • πŸ”’ You need a Mi Account, but you don’t remember it. β†’ Restoring access to the official website.
  • πŸ“± Brake after discharge β†’ Do reset again or flash the official firmware.

To recover data:

  • ☁️ Cloud services: Google Photos (photos), Google Contacts (phone numbers), Mi Cloud (notes and photos) SMS).
  • πŸ–₯️ Local Copy: Connect your phone to your computer and copy files manually.
  • πŸ“± Backup applications: Titanium Backup (requires root), Swift Backup.

If you're selling a phone, don't put your data back on it.

  • πŸ“± Log out of all accounts (Google, Mi Account, social networks).
  • πŸ”„ Do another reset through the settings for a full cleanup.
  • πŸ“‹ Check what is in the Settings menu β†’ The phone. β†’ Device status is listed as Not tied to account.

6. Frequent errors and their solutions

Even if you follow the instructions correctly, you can have problems.

Mistake.Reason.Decision
Discharge interrupted by 50%A discharged battery or damaged memory partsCharge your phone to 100% and reset via Fastboot
After reset, the phone asks for an old Mi AccountXiaomi account was tied to the deviceRestoring access to your account or contacting the service center to unlock
Cannot log in to Recovery or FastbootDamaged buttons or software failureTry a different USB cable/port or use ADB to reboot to the desired mode
Phone after reset is not turned on (black screen)The loader or firmware is damaged.Sweep through the official firmware through the Mi Flash Tool in Clean All mode
The error is "This device is locked."Locking the bootloader (Bootloader)Unlock Bootloader via Xiaomi’s official website (it takes 7-30 days to wait)

If none of these methods helped, there may be a problem with the hardware (damaged memory, power controller), in which case we recommend contacting an authorized Xiaomi service center.

How to unlock Bootloader on Redmi Note 8 Pro?
Unlocking the bootloader requires official permission from Xiaomi. 1. Link the device to Mi Account in settings. 2. Apply for unlocking on https://en.miui.com/unlock/. 3. Wait for confirmation (usually 7-30 days). 4. Use the Mi Unlock Tool to unlock. Without an unlocked Bootloader, it is impossible to flash custom Recovery or firmware.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions

❓ Can you reset the Redmi Note 8 Pro without losing data?
No, a full reset deletes all user data (photos, videos, contacts, apps). However, you can: Back up via Mi PC Suite or Google Drive; Copy files to your computer manually; Use Selective Wipe in custom Recovery (requires an unlocked Bootloader).
❓ The phone after the reset asks for the password from Mi Account, but I don't remember it?
If the Redmi Note 8 Pro requires Mi Account data after a reset, you have two options: Restore access: Go to account.xiaomi.com. Click Forgot password? and follow the instructions (you need an email or phone number linked to your account). Contact the service center: Provide a check or box from your phone (to confirm ownership); Pay for the unlock service (cost ~ 1000-2000 rubles).
❓ How to Reset Redmi Note 8 Pro if the Screen is Not Working (Broken Display)?
If the screen does not respond to touch, but the phone turns on, try: Connect the mouse to the phone. OTG: Buy it. OTG-adapter (Type-C) β†’ USB). Connect. USB-Use your mouse to navigate the menu and perform a reset via Settings or Recovery. Reset via Fastboot: Connect your phone to your computer. Use commands ADB Or Mi Flash Tool for cleaning data (instructions in Method 3) If the screen is completely black and the phone is not responsive to buttons, it is likely that the hardware problem (damaged plume or motherboard) will help in this case only repairs.
❓ Can the reset be cancelled after it is launched?
No, once the reset is confirmed, the process is irreversible. Interruption (e.g., removing the battery or turning off the phone) can result in: Damage to system files. Device "overhead" (the phone will not turn on); IMEI loss (no network). If the reset has been suspended at one stage for longer than 30 minutes, wait for the battery to completely discharge, then charge the phone and repeat the procedure.
❓ How to know if the reset has been successful?
Signs of successful discharge: πŸ“± The phone has rebooted and shows the screen of the initial setting (language selection, Wi-Fi connection). πŸ“ There are no files in your phone memory (photos, videos, documents). πŸ”§ Settings menu β†’ The phone. β†’ The memory shows that the internal memory is almost empty. If after rebooting the phone again requires a pattern lock or shows your old data, the reset did not occur).