Resetting the Xiaomi Redmi smartphone to factory settings is a necessary procedure when selling the device, fixing software failures or preparing for a firmware update. However, improper actions can lead to data loss, blocking the Mi Account account or even βbrickingβ the phone. In this article, we will analyze all the current reset methods for the Redmi Note 10/11/12, Redmi 9/10/13C models and other lines, including hidden nuances that are not written in the official instructions.
It's important to understand that resetting doesn't always solve performance or battery problems -- hardware malfunctions are sometimes to blame. For example, if Redmi gets too hot or discharges quickly after reset, it could be a worn-out battery or a damaged motherboard, and we'll also tell you how to distinguish software failure from hardware breakdowns and when to contact a service center.
When you need to reset to factory settings
Resetting is not a universal solution, but there are situations where it really helps:
- π± Selling or transferring a phone β deletes personal data, photos, passwords and linked accounts.
- π’ Slowdown β If Redmi slows down after a year of use, the reset will clear the cache and unnecessary files.
- π Errors after the update - some firmware MIUI contain bugs that can only be eliminated by a complete reset.
- π Forgotten pattern lock β if you canβt unlock the screen, resetting via Recovery may be the only way out.
However, there are cases where resetting won't help or even make the problem worse:
- π Bloated battery β a physical malfunction requires replacement, not software manipulation.
- π‘ Network problems β if Redmi doesnβt catch the signal, the communication module, not the firmware, may be to blame.
- π§ Moisture infestation - after flooding, the discharge is useless until complete drying and diagnosis.
Preparing for resetting: what to do before the start
Before you reset Redmi, follow the mandatory steps to avoid losing important data:
- Back up via Settings β About Phone β Backup. Save a copy to Mi Cloud or locally to your computer. Attention: MIUI backup does not include some system settings and application data (e.g. save in games).
- Remember the Mi Account data β after resetting, the phone may require entering a login and password to unlock (Mi Cloud Lock).
If you drop Redmi before selling, additionally:
- π Delete everything. SIM-microSD cards and memory cards.
- π Untie your device from Google Account in Settings β Accounts.
- π³ Remove Linked Bank Cards in Google Pay or Mi Pay.
Create a backup copy|Remember the username/password of Mi Account|Charge your phone at least 50 times%|Delete SIM microSD|Untie Google accounts and bank cards-->
β οΈ Note: If you forget your Mi Account password, a Recovery reset can lock your phone permanently.Restore your account in advance at account.xiaomi.com.
Method 1: Reset via the settings menu (the safest)
This method is suitable if the phone turns on and you remember a pattern lock or password. MIUI 12/13/14:
- Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
- Go to the About Phone section. β Backup and reset.
- Select Resetting β Erase all data.
- Enter the password from Mi Account (if requested) and confirm the action.
The phone will reboot and start the cleaning process. The MI logo and progress bar will appear on the screen. Don't interrupt the process, this can cause damage to the /data partition and the need to run the firmware through Fastboot.
What to do if the reset is stuck on the MI logo?
After a successful reset, Redmi will launch as a new one, with a welcome setting screen.If the phone requires Mi Account data, use the same login and password as before the reset.
Method 2: Reset via Recovery Mode (if the phone is locked)
If you forget your password or Redmi doesn't load, use Recovery mode, which works on all models, including the Redmi Note 8 Pro, Redmi 9A and the new Redmi 13C.
- Turn off the phone (squeeze the power for 10 seconds if it freezes).
- Press Power + Volume up at the same time and hold for 10-15 seconds until the MI logo and Recovery menu appear.
- Use volume buttons for navigation and power to select the item.
- Select Wipe Data β Wipe All Data β Confirm the action.
In some firmware, the path may differ:
- π± Nana MIUI 14: Wipe Data β Format Data β enter".
- π± On older versions: Wipe & Reset β Wipe All Data.
β οΈ Note: On models with unlocked bootloader (Bootloader), resetting via Recovery can lead to loss TWRP Or custom firmware. If you're using unofficial software, you better drop it through the back. TWRP (wipe β Advanced Wipe).
Once complete, select Reboot β Reboot to System. The first run after reset can take up to 10 minutes - that's fine.
Method 3: Reset via Mi Cloud (remote)
If your phone is lost or stolen, you can delete it remotely through Mi Cloud.
- Go to i.mi.com and log in.
- Select the Find the device tab.
- Click on your Redmi model in the list of devices.
- Choose to erase data and confirm the action.
Remote reset works only if:
- πΆ The phone is connected to the Internet (mobile network or Wi-Fi).
- π Battery charge over 15%.
- π The phone has enabled the function Find the device (Settings) β Mi Account β Mi Cloud β Find the device).
After the remote reset, the phone will be locked and require you to enter Mi Account data the next time you turn on, which protects your data from outsiders, even if you are not in a position to do so. SIM-map replaced.
π‘
If you sell a phone, remove it from the device list in Mi Cloud after a reset, which will prevent the new owner from accessing your backups and data.
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even when following the instructions, users face problems, and consider common mistakes and their solutions:
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Resetting doesn't start | Not enough space in /data partition or damaged file system | Try resetting via Fastboot (fastboot erase userdata) |
| Phone asks for old password after reset | FRP (Factory Reset Protection) is activated. | Enter the Mi Account that was tied before the reset |
| Hangs on the MI logo after being reset | bootloader or system files are damaged | Use the Mi Flash Tool in Clean All mode |
| The sensor does not work after resetting | Failure in the operation of the driver touch screen | Do the reset again or flash the original firmware |
If Redmi fails to turn on or issues a No Command error in Recovery after reset, this may indicate damage to the /system partition.
- Download the official firmware for your model from the MIUI Download website.
- Install the Mi Flash Tool on your computer.
- Connect the phone in Fastboot mode (clip Power + Volume down) and flash the software.
Reset vs. firmware: when to reflash the phone
Factory reset and flashing are different procedures, and the table below compares when to apply:
| Problem. | Will the reset help? | Need firmware? |
|---|---|---|
| Phone's slowing down, paddling. | β Yes. | β No. |
| Forgot the lock password | β Yes. | β Not (unless the reset through Recovery worked) |
| Phone not turned on (black screen) | β No. | β Yes (possibly damaged loader) |
| App not installed error when installing applications | β No. | β Yes (damaged section) /system) |
| Constant reboots (bootloop) | β No. | β Yes (requires firmware in Fastboot) |
If you are considering Redmi, consider:
- π§ For firmware through Fastboot you need an unlocked bootloader (Bootloader).
- π₯ Download the firmware only from the official Xiaomi website to avoid viruses.
- π The firmware takes 10β30 minutes to provide stable power to the phone (preferably via the original cable).
π‘
If you're not sure what's causing the malfunction, start by resetting through the settings menu. If that doesn't work, try Recovery. Firmware is the last option that requires technical skills.