How to return Xiaomi Redmi to factory settings: 3 proven ways

Resetting Xiaomi Redmi to factory settings is a radical but sometimes necessary step to solve system problems, prepare the device for sale or eliminate the consequences of virus attacks. The procedure removes all user data, applications and settings, returning the smartphone to the state of “out of the box.” However, not all users know that there are three fundamentally different methods of resetting: through the settings menu, Recovery mode and the Fastboot protocol – each of them has its own nuances and is suitable for specific situations.

In this article, we will analyze all methods in detail, taking into account the features of firmware MIUI (Including global and Chinese versions, we will provide checklists for the preparation of the device and tell you how to avoid typical errors. 10/11/12, Redmi 9/10 and newer, where the process may differ due to the updated interfaces and security policy of Xiaomi, if you have never performed a reset or encountered problems (for example, stuck on the logo). MI), This guide will help to carry out the procedure without the risk of "bricking" the device.

Why you may need to reset to factory settings

Resetting is not a panacea, but in some cases it is the only effective solution, and these are the most common scenarios where Redmi users resort to this procedure:

• 🔄 Slowdown: The smartphone starts to slow down, applications spontaneously close, and free memory ends despite deleting files, often due to data fragmentation or system process conflicts.
• 🦠 Viruses and malware: even after removing suspicious applications, there are "tails" in the system that continue to show ads or steal data.
• 🔒 Forgotten pattern lock or PIN: If you have entered the password incorrectly several times, MIUI It can lock the device. It's often impossible to retrieve access without resetting.
• 📦 Preparing for sale or transfer: To prevent the new owner from gaining access to your accounts, photos or messages, you need to completely clear the memory.
• 🛠️ Failed firmware update: if you install a new version MIUI phone stopped turning on or is unstable, reset helps to return to work.

It is important to understand that resetting does not always solve hardware problems (for example, a discharged battery or a faulty speaker). If the cause of the problem was physical damage, it is better to contact the service center.

Preparation for resetting: what to do in advance

Before you start resetting, follow a few critical steps, which can lead to the loss of important data or even the inability to restore the device.

Create a backup copy of the data|Check the battery charge (minimum 50%)|Delete your Xiaomi account (if you plan to sell)|Remember data from a Google account|Disable Find My Device (if used)-->

Pay special attention to backup, even if you plan to reset due to viruses, save contacts, photos and documents to an external drive or to the cloud.

1. Go to Settings → About Phone → Backup and Reset → Local Backup.
2. Select data to save (contacts, messages, notes, Wi-Fi settings).
3. Click Create a backup and wait for the process to complete.

If you are using Google Photos or Google Drive, make sure that sync is enabled. For Redmi models with an unlocked bootloader, it is also recommended to save a copy of the MIUI/Backup folder to your computer - it stores system settings.

⚠️ Note: If your Redmi has Find My Device enabled, you may need to enter data from your Xiaomi account linked to your phone after the reset. If you forget your password, it will be extremely difficult to unlock the device!

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

This method is suitable if the smartphone is turned on and you can log in. It is the simplest and least risky, since it does not require the use of recovery modes or connection to a PC.

Instructions for MIUI 12/13/14 (relevant for Redmi Note 11/12, Redmi 10/9A and later):

1. Open the settings (cog icon on the desktop).
2. Go to the About Phone section. → Backup and reset.
3. Select Settings Reset.
4. Click Delete all data and confirm the action by entering PIN-code-key.
5. Wait until the process is complete (usually takes 5-10 minutes) and the phone will reboot automatically.

On older versions of MIUI (e.g. Redmi 5/6), the path may be slightly different: Settings → Additional → Restore and Reset → Reset.

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If the phone hangs on the MI logo for a long time after reset, don't panic. Wait 15-20 minutes - the first download after reset may take longer due to app optimization.

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

If Redmi doesn’t load beyond the logo, freeze or lock, use Recovery Mode, which works even when the firmware is damaged, but requires care – incorrect actions can lead to loss of access to the device.

To enter Recovery:

1. Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10-15 seconds).
2. Press the button combination: For most models: Volume up + Power. For Redmi Note 8/9/10: Volume up + Volume down + Power.

MI

Recovery

In the Recovery menu, the control is carried out by the volume (move) and power (select) buttons.

1. Select Wipe Data (or Wipe & Reset on newer versions).
2. Confirm the action by choosing Wipe All Data.
3. Once you have finished, select Reboot → Reboot to System.

To work, you will need a computer with installed Xiaomi drivers and the Fastboot utility (part of the Android SDK).

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off the phone and put it in Fastboot mode: Press Volume down + Power for 10 seconds. Connect your phone to your PC through USB-cable.

Fastboot

fastboot devices

If the device is determined (the serial number will appear), continue.

fastboot erase userdata


fastboot erase cache




fastboot reboot

On Redmi models with a locked bootloader, after these commands, the phone can go into EDL (emergency boot) mode and require authorization through a Xiaomi account.

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Fastboot resets only user data, not system files. If the problem was in the firmware, it will remain after the reset, in which case you will need a complete firmware reflash.

Frequent mistakes and their solutions

Even when following the instructions, Redmi users face problems, and here are the most common mistakes and ways to fix them:

If after resetting the phone is no longer determined by the computer, try:

1. Use the other USB-cable (preferably original).
2. Connect the phone to another USB-port (better) USB 2.0).
3. Install drivers manually through Device Manager (Windows).

If you sell a phone, don't sign in to your accounts, just skip this step.

1. Update your firmware to the latest version (Settings → About Phone → System Update).
2. Install an antivirus (e.g. Google Play Protect or Dr.Web).
3. Set up automatic backup in Settings → Accounts and Synchronization.

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After the Redmi reset, it may seem like the phone is running faster, which is a temporary effect – over time, the system will start to slow down again if you do not monitor the optimization (delete cache, disable unnecessary applications).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions