How to reset Xiaomi device to factory settings: all ways

Hard reset is a radical but effective way to get Xiaomi’s device back to its original state. It helps solve performance issues, remove viruses, prepare the gadget for sale or fix bugs after a failed upgrade. However, an incorrect reset can lead to data loss or even bricking. In this article, we’ll look at all the current reset methods for Xiaomi smartphones, tablets and smart devices, including the Redmi, POCO and Mi models, taking into account the features of MIUI and Android.

It is important to understand that the reset deletes all user data: contacts, photos, messages, installed applications and settings, while system files return to the state “out of the box”. If you plan to sell or transfer a device, the reset is mandatory – this will protect your privacy. For personal use, you should first try less radical methods: clearing the cache, removing unnecessary applications or resetting individual settings (for example, the network).

When you need to reset to factory settings

Resetting is not a universal solution, but in some cases it is indeed necessary. Here are typical scenarios when it is worth considering this option:

• 🐢 Slowdown: Device slows down, apps open for a long time, animations twitch - even after cleaning the cache and removing unnecessary files.
• 🔄 Cyclical reboot: Xiaomi’s smartphone or tablet is constantly restarting and can’t boot into the system.
• 📱 Errors after the update: a failed update MIUI caused malfunctions (for example, sensors, camera or Wi-Fi are not working).
• 🔒 Forgotten pattern lock or password: if you can’t unlock your device and your Mi Account isn’t tied.
• 💰 Preparation for sale / transfer: complete deletion of personal data before transferring the gadget to another user.

But resetting is not always justified, for example, if the problem is related to a hardware malfunction (a broken screen, a broken power button, a damaged motherboard), it will not help, and you should not reset the device due to small glitches, which can often be eliminated by rebooting or resetting the settings of a particular application.

⚠️ Note: On devices with an unlocked bootloader, a reset via Recovery may result in the device being locked.

Preparation for resetting: what to do in advance

Before you reset Xiaomi to factory settings, follow a few critical steps to avoid data loss and trouble restoring your device.

First, back up. Even if you're planning a reset because of a sale, you'll need a backup if something goes wrong. MIUI has a built-in backup feature:

1. Go to Settings → About Phone → Backup and Reset → Local Backup.
2. Select data to save (contacts, messages, applications, system settings).
3. Click Create a backup and wait for the process to complete.
4. Copy the backup file (located in the MIUI/backup/AllBackup folder) to your computer or cloud.

Second, make sure the device is at least 50% charged, interrupting the reset process due to a discharged battery can cause serious failures, up to the point of not being able to turn on the gadget, and check if you have access to your Mi Account - after the reset, proof of ownership may be required.

Create a backup copy of the data|Charge the device to at least 50%|Make sure you have access to your Mi Account|Get out. SIM-card and memory card (optional)|Remember the Wi-Fi password (required after resetting)-->

⚠️ Note: If the device has Find Device enabled, you may need to enter a password from your Mi Account after reset, even if you are not using it to unlock. → Mi Account → Find Device.

Method 1: Reset via the settings menu (soft reset)

This is the easiest and safest method, and it's suitable if the device is turned on and you can log in. It doesn't require any special knowledge and only takes a few minutes.

Instructions for MIUI 12/13/14 (relevant to most modern Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO models):

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the home screen or in the application menu).
2. Go to About Phone (or About Tablet for Xiaomi Pad).
3. Select Backup and Reset.
4. Slip on Settings Reset.
5. The system will suggest choosing which data to delete, and it is recommended to tick all points for complete reset.
6. Confirm the action by entering a pattern lock or password (if installed).
7. Click Reset and wait for the process to complete (usually takes 2-5 minutes).

Once completed, the device will automatically restart and start setting up as new. If you see a request to enter your Mi Account data on the screen, use the same credentials that were tied before the reset.

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If after reset, the device asks for a password from your Mi Account but you don’t remember it, try to restore access via account.xiaomi.com. In extreme cases, you may need to seek support with proof of purchase.

Method 2: Recovery Mode (hard reset)

If the device is not turning on, stuck on the Mi logo or locked, you will have to use Recovery mode, which is more complex, but it works even when the system is not booting. Importantly, on some Xiaomi models (especially with a locked bootloader), after such a reset, you may need to log in through your Mi Account.

Instructions for entering and resetting Recovery:

1. Turn off the device (press the power button for 10-15 seconds if it does not respond).
2. Press the button combination: For most smartphones: Volume up + Power button. For some models (e.g. POCO F1): Volume down + Power button. For Xiaomi Pad tablets: you may need to plug the charger in before holding the buttons.

Mi

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

Wipe Data

Wipe & Reset

Wipe All Data

Reboot to System

If the Recovery menu is in Chinese, look for the location of items: Wipe Data is usually the third or fourth item on top. On some devices (e.g. Xiaomi Mi A1/A2 with pure Android), the Recovery menu may look different — look for Factory Reset.

⚠️ Note: On devices with a bootloader, a reset via Recovery may require authorization through Mi Account. If you don’t remember your account details or the device was bought with your hands, it will be difficult to unlock it. In this case, it is better to use official Xiaomi service centers.

Method 3: Fastboot Reset (for power users)

If standard methods do not work (for example, the device is not included in Recovery or the reset is interrupted), you can use Fastboot mode. This method requires a computer and minimal knowledge of working with the command line. It is suitable for devices with an unlocked bootloader or in cases where other methods are not available.

To reset via Fastboot you will need:

• 💻 Computer with drivers installed ADB/Fastboot (You can download the Mi Flash Tool or Google Platform Tools).
• 🔌 Cable USB (preferably original).
• 📱 Device with a charge of at least 30%.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off the device.
2. Press Volume Down + Power button to log in to Fastboot Mode.
3. Connect the device to the computer.
4. Open the command prompt (or Terminal on Mac/Linux) in the fastboot folder.
5. Enter the command to check the connection: fastboot devices If the device is determined (its serial number will appear), continue.
6. Run reset: fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache fastboot reboot

On devices with a locked bootloader, an error may appear after these commands, in which case you will need to unlock through the Mi Unlock Tool or the official service.

What to do after a reset

After a successful reset, the device will start as new, and you will have to go through the initial setup, which includes:

• 🌐 Language and region choice.
• 📶 Wi-Fi connection (it is recommended to use the same network as before the reset if the router settings are saved).
• 🔑 Sign in to your Mi Account (if required before resetting).
• 📱 Recovery of data from backup (if it was created).
• 🔒 Setting up the lock screen (PIN, graphical key).

If you sell or transfer a device, don't restore the backup or sign in to your Mi Account. Just do the basic setup and give it away in a clean form. If the device was dropped to troubleshoot, check if the problem has been solved.

• Call the contacts to make sure the microphone and speaker are working.
• Connect to Wi-Fi and mobile network to check communication modules.
• Take test photos if there was a problem with the camera.

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Once reset, the device may run faster, but over time, performance will fall again if you don't watch for optimization, clean the cache regularly, update the software, and avoid installing questionable applications.

Common mistakes and their solutions

Even if you follow instructions correctly, there are sometimes problems, and here are the most common mistakes and ways to fix them:

If none of these methods worked, the problem may be the hardware, in which case you should go to an authorized Xiaomi service center, and self-repair attempts can make things worse, especially if you're dealing with damage to the motherboard or plumes.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi reset