How to reset Xiaomi Redmi to factory settings: 5 working ways

Resetting on Xiaomi Redmi smartphones is a procedure that can be required in a variety of situations, from preparing the device for sale to fixing critical system failures. However, not all users know that there are several types of reset, each of which solves its own tasks. For example, Soft Reset saves data in some cases, while Hard Reset through Recovery Mode completely clears internal memory, including Mi Account accounts.

In this article, we will discuss all the current reset methods for Redmi models 2018-2026, including the features of working with the Redmi Note 12 Pro+, Redmi 10A and other popular devices. Particular attention will be paid to the problems that can arise after a reset, such as requesting a Mi Account password or the inability to activate the phone due to binding to the previous owner.

Before you start, make sure you have a backup of your important data. Even if you plan to partially reset (for example, only network settings), some files may be lost. For models with MIUI 14+, we recommend using built-in cloud storage Xiaomi Cloud or third-party services like Google Drive.

1.When do I need to reset settings on Xiaomi Redmi?

Factory reset is not a universal solution to all problems, but in some cases it is really necessary.

• 📱 Preparation for sale or transfer: Before giving the phone to another person, you need to delete all personal data, including photos, messages and associated accounts.
• 🔄 System failures: If the smartphone is constantly restarting, slowing down or emitting errors such as "com.android.phone process stopped", reset can help.
• 🔒 Forgotten pattern lock or PIN-In some cases, Recovery Mode resets allow you to unlock the device (but not always!).
• 📲 Errors after the update MIUI. If bugs appear after installing a new firmware version (for example, the camera or Wi-Fi does not work), resetting often solves the problem.
• 🛡️ Removing viruses or malware: If the antivirus detects threats that are not removed by standard methods, a complete reset may be the only way out.

However, there are situations where resetting will not help or even exacerbate the problem:

• ⚠️ Hardware malfunctions (e.g., a broken screen, a broken speaker or a charging connector) Reset is useless here - you need diagnostics in the service center.
• ⚠️ iCloud lock (relevant for Apple chip devices, but sometimes users confuse it with Mi Account lock).
• ⚠️ Problems with SIM-card (e.g. error "SIM-This is a reset of the network settings, not a complete reset.

⚠️ Note: On Redmi models with MIUI 13+ After resetting via Recovery Mode, you may need to enter a password from Mi Account, even if you have not previously linked it. This is due to the Find Device function. If you do not remember your account details, unlocking can take up to 72 hours!

2.Resetting preparation: what to do in advance

Before resetting your settings, follow a few mandatory steps to avoid data loss and activation issues after the procedure.

Creation of a backup copy

MIUI has a built-in backup tool, but it doesn’t save some data (such as Wi-Fi passwords or some app settings).

• 📁 Local copy (through Settings) → The phone. → Backup: Save contacts, messages, notes and some settings.
• ☁️ Xiaomi Cloud. 5GB is free, but a paid subscription may be required for a full backup.
• 🤖 Google Account Syncs Contacts, Calendar, Mail and Some App Data.
• 💾 Third-party programs (e.g. Titanium Backup for rooted devices or Swift Backup).

For models with MIUI 14 and later, the “App Cloning” feature is available, which allows you to transfer data from certain programs (such as WhatsApp or Viber) to a new device without losing history.

Account untied

If you plan to sell or transfer a smartphone, be sure to delete all associated accounts:

1. Go to Settings → Accounts and Synchronization.
2. Delete your Google Account, Mi Account, and social media accounts (Facebook, VK, etc.).
3. For Mi Account, you may need to enter a password.

⚠️ Note: If you do not delete the Mi Account before the reset, the new owner will not be able to activate the device without your data! IMEI.

Checking the battery charge

The reset process can take anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes depending on the model and the amount of data, make sure the battery level is at least 50%. If the smartphone runs out during the procedure, this can lead to:

• 🔋 "Brick” (device not switched on).
• 🔄 Cyclical reboot (Endless logo of Redmi).
• 📱 Loss of data even after successful reset.

3. Method 1: Soft Reset via Settings (without data loss)

This method is suitable if you want to reset only the system settings without affecting personal files (photos, videos, music).It works on all Redmi models with MIUI 9 and newer.

Step-by-step:

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Go to About the Phone (or About the Device on some firmware).
3. Select Backup and Reset → Resetting.
4. Click Reset Settings (not to be confused with Reset All Settings – this is another option!).
5. Confirm the action by entering a pattern lock or PIN-code.

After restarting, the device will store:

• 📸 Photos and videos in the gallery.
• 🎵 Music and uploaded files.
• 📥 Installed apps (but application settings will reset).

However, the following will be deleted:

• 🔑 Wi-Fi passwords.
• 📱 Screen settings (brightness, wallpaper, fonts).
• 🔊 Sound profiles.

⚠️ Note: On some models (Redmi Note 10 Pro, Redmi) 9T) After such a reset, you may need to re-authorize in Mi Account when you first connect to the Internet.

💡

If the sound is lost after the reset, check the settings of Settings → Sound and vibration → Sound modes. Sometimes the profile "Silent mode" is reset.

Method 2: Hard Reset via Recovery Mode (full reset)

This is the most radical method that completely erases all data from the device, including internal memory.

• 🔐 You forgot the screen unlock password.
• 📵 The phone doesn’t respond to touch or hovers on the logo.
• 🚫 You must delete all data before selling.

Instructions for all Redmi models (including Redmi Note 12/13, Redmi 10/11):

1. Turn off your smartphone (press the power button and select Turn off).
2. Press the button combination: For most models: Power button + Volume up. For Redmi 6/6A/7/7A: Power button + Volume up + Volume down.

Mi

Recovery Mode

Use volume buttons for navigation and power button for selection.

Wipe Data

Wipe All Data

Confirm

Reboot

Reboot to System

It can take up to 10-15 minutes, and don't interrupt it, even if it seems like the smartphone is getting stuck!

⚠️ Attention: On models with MIUI 14 and later, after Hard Reset, you may receive a request to enter a password from Mi Account, even if you did not link it. This is due to the Remote Lock function. If you do not remember the data, try to restore access through account.xiaomi.com.

5. Method 3: Reset via Mi Account (remotely)

If you lose your smartphone or it has been stolen, you can reset remotely via Xiaomi’s Find Device service, which is also suitable if the device is locked, but you have access to your tied Mi Account.

How to reset Redmi with Mi Account:

1. Go to i.mi.com and log in.
2. Select your device from the list (if it’s connected to the internet, you’ll see its location).
3. Click Delete Data (or Erase Device in English).
4. Confirm the action by entering the password from the account.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off your smartphone.
2. Press the Power button + Volume down to enter Fastboot mode.
3. Connect the phone to the computer.
4. Open the command line and type: fastboot devices If the device is determined, continue.
5. Enter the command to reset: fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache fastboot reboot

This method doesn't remove the firmware, but it resets all user data. If you want to reflash the device, use the Mi Flash Tool with official firmware.

⚠️ Warning: Wrong commands in Fastboot can lead to loss IMEI If you're not sure what you're doing, call the service center.

7.What to do after resetting: setting up and possible problems

After a successful reset, you'll have to set up the device first.

First adjustment after reset

When first turned on, the smartphone will offer:

1. Choose a language and region.
2. Connect to Wi-Fi (required if you need to log in to Mi Account).
3. Sign in to Mi Account or create a new one (if the device was previously linked).
4. Restore data from a backup (if it was created).

On models with MIUI 14 appeared the function "Quick setup", which allows you to transfer the basic parameters from the old device over Bluetooth.

Common problems after discharge

Sometimes, after a reset, users experience problems, and here are the most common ways to solve them:

7.3 How to bypass the Mi Account lock after a reset

If you bought a Redmi handheld and the previous owner didn't untie his Mi Account, the device will be locked. There are no legal ways to get around this lock, but you can try:

1. Contact the previous owner and ask them to remove the device from their account.
2. Contact Xiaomi with proof of purchase (check, contract).
3. If the device is stolen, the lock will remain forever (this is a measure of protection).

⚠️ Attention: Use of informal unlocking methods (e.g. through EDL Mode can lead to loss of warranty and unstable operation of the device, and it violates the user agreement Xiaomi.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)