How to go to Recovery on Xiaomi Redmi 4X: all working ways

The Xiaomi Redmi 4X (codenamed santoni) remains a popular smartphone among users, despite the release of new models. One of the key features for managing the device is access to Recovery mode, a special environment that allows you to reset settings, install firmware or restore the system. However, entering this mode on the Redmi 4X has nuances, especially if the device has a locked bootloader or custom software.

In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to log into Recovery on Xiaomi Redmi 4X, including hardware (through buttons), software (through ADB), and solutions for cases where the smartphone does not respond to standard combinations. Separately, we will focus on common errors, such as hanging on the Mi logo or lack of reaction to clicks, and explain how to avoid them. If you plan to sew the device or reset settings, this guide will help you do everything correctly and without the risk of “bricking”.

What is Recovery and Why You Need It on Xiaomi Redmi 4X

Recovery mode is an independent environment built into Xiaomi firmware. It allows:

• 🔄 Perform hard reset to factory settings if the smartphone is jammed or locked.
• 📦 Install official and custom firmware through ZIP-file.
• 🔧 Restore backups (nandroid backup) or create them.
• 🔐 Unlock the bootloader (in combination with Fastboot).
• 🛠️ Fix system errors, such as infinite boot (bootloop).

Redmi 4X has limited stock Recovery installed by default. Extended features (such as Magisk or TWRP installation) require custom TWRP Recovery, but installation is only possible after unlocking the bootloader. Please note that improper actions in Recovery can lead to data loss or device failure.

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If you plan to flash Redmi 4X through Recovery, copy important files to your computer or cloud beforehand. Settings reset removes all data from internal memory, including photos and contacts.

Preparing for Recovery Entry: What to Do in advance

Before you enter Recovery, follow a few mandatory steps:

1. Check the battery power. The level must be at least 30%, otherwise the device may turn off during manipulation.
2. Turn off all cables (USB, headphones, memory cards) that can interfere with the proper entry into mode.
3. Find out the firmware version. Go to Settings → About Phone → MIUI version. This will help you find the right commands or files to recover.
4. Install Xiaomi drivers on your PC if you plan to use ADB or Fastboot.

If you are going to install custom firmware or TWRP, additionally:

• 🔓 Unlock the bootloader via Mi Unlock Tool (requires an account binding Mi).
• 📥 Download the files you want (.zip or.img) and put them in the root of your internal memory.

Method 1: Enter Recovery via hardware buttons (for all versions)

The most versatile method is the use of a combination of physical buttons, which works even if the smartphone is not turned on or locked. 4X:

1. Turn off the device. If it's stuck, hold the power button for 10 to 15 seconds until the screen goes out.
2. Press simultaneously: Volume Up button; Power button.

5-10 seconds

Mi

Recovery

If instead of Recovery you were in Fastboot (black screen with a rabbit and a sign). FASTBOOT), So you've been holding the buttons for too long, try again by releasing the keys as soon as the Mi logo appears.

Attention! Some firmware (e.g. Global Stable) may have a locked Recovery with a limited menu in Chinese, in which case you will need to unlock the bootloader first to install TWRP.

Method 2: Login via ADB (for phone on)

If the smartphone is turned on and you have access to the Developer Settings, you can log in to Recovery via the ADB command. This method is useful if the hardware buttons are not working or you need to automate the process.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn on USB debugging: Go to Settings → About Phone; Tap 7 times on MIUI Version to activate Developer Mode; Return to Settings → Additional → For Developers; Activate Debugging over USB.

Redmi 4X

Command line.

Terminal

ADB

adb devices

(Your device should be displayed)

adb reboot recovery

After the second command, the smartphone will automatically reboot to Recovery. If a request for debugging permission appears, confirm it on the phone screen.

Method 3: Sign in via Fastboot (if Recovery is not available)

If standard methods fail (e.g., due to a damaged Recovery), you can use Fastboot to force a reboot, which requires an unlocked bootloader or a Mi Account with the device rights.

Instructions:

1. Turn off your smartphone.
2. Press Volume Down + Power to enter Fastboot (black screen with a rabbit).
3. Connect the device to your PC and open the Command Prompt in the Fastboot folder.
4. Enter the command: fastboot reboot recovery

If the phone returns to Fastboot after this command, the Recovery partition is damaged, in which case you will need to reflash it via Fastboot using MiFlash or the utility fastboot flash recovery twrp.img (for TWRP).

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If the device reboots cyclically after fastboot reboot recovery, it's a sign of missing or damaging the Recovery partition.

Common mistakes and their solutions

When logging into Recovery on Redmi 4X, users often face problems. Consider typical scenarios and ways to fix them:

⚠️ If after resetting settings (Wipe Data) smartphone requires the entry of a password from the Mi Account, and you do not remember it, you will need official unlock through the service Xiaomi. IMEI.

What to do after logging in to Recovery: Basic commands

When you’re successfully logged in to Recovery, you’ll see a menu of basic options, and let’s look at what they mean and how to use them:

• 🔹 Reboot system now - restart to normal mode.
• 🔹 Wipe Data – Resetting settings (deletes all data!).
• 🔹 Wipe Cache – Cache Clearance (Secure for Data).
• 🔹 Install update.zip To System - Installation of firmware from update.zip (must lie at the root of memory).
• 🔹 Mount /system — Partition mounting (necessary for manual file editing).

Use Volume Up/Down to navigate, and Power to select. TWRP Recovery has a touch-sensitive menu, but Redmi 4X has stock Recovery installed by default without touchscreen.

Critical! If you install custom firmware, be sure to backup backup backup through Backup in TWRP. Without a backup, data recovery after a failed firmware is impossible.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Recovery on Xiaomi Redmi 4X