How to reset Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 factory settings: a complete guide with photos

Why you need to reset Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 and when to do it

Resetting the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 to factory settings is a radical but effective way to bring the smartphone back to its previous performance, which removes all user data, apps and settings, returning the device to the “out of the box” state.

First, if the phone starts to slow down or spontaneously reboot after the MIUI update. Second, in preparation for the sale, so that the new owner does not gain access to your accounts. Third, resetting helps eliminate critical system errors when other methods (cleaning the cache, rolling back updates) have not worked. But it is important to understand that this is not a panacea. If the problem is associated with iron (for example, a discharged battery or a damaged motherboard), reset will not help.

On the Redmi Note 4 (mido and nikel models), the procedure is nuanced due to the firmware version and the Recovery type. For example, older versions of MIUI (below 10) may not have the option of Reset via menu, and in some cases will require unlocking the bootloader. We will look at all the current methods, from the simplest to "heavy artillery" like the Fastboot.

Before you start, answer yourself the question: are you really ready to lose all data? Photos, contacts, messages in messengers, saved passwords — all of this will disappear without the possibility of recovery (if there was no backup).

Preparation for resetting: what to do in advance

Even if you're determined to reset, take 10 minutes to prepare, and it will save you from unpleasant surprises like losing important data or building your phone.

First and foremost, back up. On Redmi Note 4, you can do this through the built-in Backup app (see Settings → More). The alternative is to manually copy files to your PC or cloud.

• 📸 Photos and videos (folders) DCIM and Pictures)
• 📞 Contacts (export to) VCF via the Contacts app)
• 🔑 Messages (use) SMS Backup & Restore from Play Market)
• 🎮 Save games (if the game supports cloud backup, link your account)

The second is to check the battery power. The reset process can take anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes (depending on the method). If the phone runs out during the operation, there is a high risk of damaging system files and turning the device into a brick. The optimal charge level is at least 50%. If the battery is worn out (capacity below 70%), connect the phone to charge before the procedure begins.

Third, make sure you have access to your Mi Account. Once reset, the phone may require you to enter your username and password to unlock (Mi Cloud Lock function). If you forget the data, restore it in advance on account.xiaomi.com. Otherwise, you risk getting a locked device.

Create a backup copy of important data|Charge your phone to at least 50%|Make sure you access your Mi Account|Get out. SIM and a memory card (optional)|Prepare the cable. USB (PC-based methods)-->

Method 1: Reset via the settings menu (the easiest one)

If the phone is turned on and you remember the pattern lock (or PIN-code, this method is the best choice. It doesn't require any additional tools and it takes a minimum of time.

Step instructions:

1. Open the settings (cog icon on the desktop).
2. Go to the section Additional → Recovery and Reset.
3. Select Resetting (on some firmware, the item may be called Resetting all settings).
4. The system will tell you what to drop: 📱 Settings (required) 📂 Applications (removes all installed programs) 📁 Media files (optional if you want to erase photos/video)

Reset your phone settings

The phone will reboot and start cleaning. The Mi logo and the progress bar will appear on the screen. Don't interrupt the process, it can damage the system partitions. On average, the operation takes 5-10 minutes. Once completed, you will see the screen of the initial setup, as after purchase.

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If the menu does not include Recover and Reset, try upgrading to the latest version of MIUI. On older versions (below MIUI 9), the path may be different: Settings → About Phone → Reset

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

If the Redmi Note 4 doesn’t respond to touch, hangs on the logo, or requires a pattern lock you forgot, Recovery mode will help.This method works even on a locked phone, but requires care – an error in choosing menu items can lead to irreversible consequences.

How to log in to Recovery Mode:

1. Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10-15 seconds).
2. Press the Power button + Volume up at the same time.
3. Hold them until the Mi logo appears, then let them go.
4. In a few seconds, you will see the Recovery menu (in English or Chinese).

In the Recovery menu, the volume buttons (Up/Down for navigation, Power for selection) are controlled.

1. Select Wipe Data (or Chinese firmware).
2. Confirm the action by selecting Wipe All Data (or similar).
3. Wait until the process is complete (the screen will display the inscription Data wipe complete).
4. Go back to the main menu and select Reboot → Reboot to System.

Step-by-step:

1. Unpack the downloaded firmware (.tgz or.zip format) into a folder without Cyrillic characters (for example, C:\mido_global_images).
2. Install the Mi Flash Tool and drivers for Fastboot (usually included).
3. Turn off the phone and put it in Fastboot mode: Press the Power + Volume buttons down until the hare appears in the eardress cap (Fastboot logo).
4. Connect your phone to your PC. The Android Bootloader Interface should appear in Device Manager.
5. Launch the Mi Flash Tool, press Select and specify the path to the firmware folder.
6. At the bottom, select Clean All mode and press Flash.
7. Wait until the end (green tick in the program) and turn off the phone.

The first download after the firmware can take up to 15 minutes. Don't worry if the phone hangs on the Mi logo for a long time - this is normal. If the process takes more than 20 minutes, check if you chose the right firmware (should match the model: mido for the global version or nikel for the Chinese version).

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Use the Mi Flash Tool only as a last resort! A wrong firmware or interrupted process can turn your phone into a brick. If you're not sure what you're doing, contact the service center.

Table: Comparison of reset methods for Redmi Note 4

If you are a beginner, start with the first method. Mi Flash Tool leave for an emergency - it requires understanding the firmware process and the ability to work with Fastboot. The alternative method through ADB (Android Debug Bridge) we do not discuss in detail, as it requires pre-activation of debugging over USB, which is impossible on a locked phone.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even when following instructions, users often encounter problems, and let's look at the most common ones and how to solve them.

Error 1: Phone does not leave Fastboot mode after firmware

Reason: Incorrectly selected firmware (for example, a firmware for nikel is installed for mido) or interrupted the recording process.

Solution: Repeat the firmware to make sure the files are compatible. If the phone doesn't respond, try to pinch the Power for 30 seconds to force a reboot.

Mistake 2: You need a Mi Account after a reset, but you don’t remember it

Reason: The phone activates the Mi Cloud Lock feature, which is linked to the account.

Decision:

• Try to restore access via account.xiaomi.com.
• If you bought the phone from hand, contact the previous owner.
• In extreme cases, contact the Xiaomi service center with proof of purchase.

Error 3: Recovery Mode won't open or menu in Chinese

Reason: The phone has custom or Chinese Recovery installed.

Decision:

• If the menu is in Chinese, focus on the location of items (usually Wipe Data is the third on top).
• Install TWRP Recovery via Fastboot if you need more options.

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If the phone doesn't turn on after reset, check the battery power. Connect it to charge for 30 to 60 minutes, then try again. Often, the dead state is due to a dead battery, not a firmware error.

Mistake 4: Mi Flash Tool gives you a "Flash is not done" error

Cause: Problems with drivers, cable, or antivirus blocking the process.

Decision:

• Turn off the antivirus during the firmware.
• Try another one. USB-cable (preferably original).
• Install drivers manually through Device Manager.
• Run the Mi Flash Tool on behalf of the administrator.

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If none of the methods worked, there may be a hardware problem (e.g. damaged eMMC memory) in which case contact the service center - self-repair can make the situation worse.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions