How to reset Xiaomi Mi settings: step-by-step instructions for all models

Modern Xiaomi Mi smartphones are complex computing devices that accumulate software debris, system errors or simply need to transfer the gadget to a new owner. Hard Reset is the most radical and effective way to return the device to its original state, eliminating the consequences of incorrect updates, viruses or failed firmware experiments.

However, before you start any manipulation of system partitions, it is important to understand the risks and consequences: Recovery or the settings menu permanently deletes all user data, including contacts, photos, videos and installed applications. If you have not backed up in the Mi Cloud cloud or external media, it will be technically impossible to recover information after the process is completed even with paid software.

In this guide, we will take a look at all the available methods for returning the system to factory parameters, from the standard menu to the use of engineering modes. We will look at the nuances of working with the MIUI shell of different versions, the features of unlocking the bootloader and how to solve typical errors that occur during the cleaning process. Careful follow the instructions will help you avoid turning your smartphone into a “brick”.

Preparation of the device for the discharge procedure

Before you start taking action, you need to perform a number of preparatory operations that will protect your data and ensure the stability of the process. Ignoring this step can lead to the loss of important information or interruption of the procedure at a critical stage, which can damage the file system. Make sure that the battery is at least 50-60%, as a sudden power outage during partition formatting is fatal.

The second important step is delinking accounts. If you have Mi Account or Google Account activated on your phone, the security system after reset will require you to enter the username and password used earlier. This is an anti-thief (FRP) function, and without knowing the account data, you will not be able to activate the phone.

It's also worth removing the microSD card if it's installed. Although modern versions of Android and MIUI usually ask for confirmation before formatting an external drive, the risk of accidentally losing files from the USB drive is too great.

Resetting settings through the MIUI system menu

The safest and most recommended way to get the Xiaomi Mi back to factory is to use the built-in shell functionality. This method does not require a computer, special cables or command line skills. It is ideal for cases when the phone turns on, the screen responds to touch, and you can get to the main menu.

To start the process, you need to go to the settings section. The path may vary slightly depending on the firmware version, but the logic remains the same. Find Settings, then go to Advanced Settings (or just About the phone in new versions), Here you are interested in the option Reset or Restore and Reset.

• 📱 Select “Erase all data” for complete cleanup.
• 🔒 Enter the screen unlock password or pattern lock to confirm identity.
• ✅ Confirm the action by clicking the Reset button at the bottom of the screen.

Once confirmed, the system will warn you that all data will be deleted, and if you are ready, the reboot and cleanup process will start, which can take 5 to 15 minutes, during which time the MI logo or Android animations can be displayed on the screen, and you can not interrupt this process with buttons, as this will violate the integrity of system files.

💡

If your phone requests your Mi Account password after you reset and you don’t remember it, try retrieving it from another device via i.mi.com before you start.

Use Recovery Mode for Hard Reset

If the smartphone is stuck, unresponsive to touch, or cyclically rebooted, the only way out is to use Recovery mode, a low-level environment built into the device’s memory that allows you to control the system bypassing the main MIUI interface.

To enter recovery mode, turn off your phone completely. Then press both the Volume Up and Power button at the same time. Hold them until the Mi logo appears, then release the power button while continuing to hold the volume. In a few seconds, the Recovery menu will open, which is controlled by the volume buttons (up/down) and confirmed by the choice of the power button.

⚠️ Attention: In the Recovery menu, the touch screen is not working. Navigation is done only with mechanical volume buttons. Be careful when selecting points so as not to start inadvertent flashing.

In the menu that opens, select a language (usually only English and Chinese), then search for Wipe Data. Inside this section, you will have the Wipe All Data option. Confirm the selection, after which the system will request final confirmation, often requiring you to select Confirm. Once you have cleaned, select Reboot -> Reboot to System to launch the phone.

Comparison of discharge methods: characteristics table

Users are often confused in a variety of terms: Factory Reset, Hard Reset, Wipe Data, Clean All. Understanding the differences between methods helps you choose the right tool for a particular situation. Below is a comparison table showing the features of each approach to cleaning up Xiaomi Mi memory.

As you can see from the table, for most household tasks, such as speeding up work or preparing for sale, the first two methods are sufficient: the use of a Fastboot and a computer is only required in emergency cases when the smartphone software is damaged so much that it stops loading even in the recovery menu.

Solving the Problem: What to Do If the Reset Fails

Sometimes the reset process can be interrupted or ended in error. A common problem is that the phone gets stuck on the Mi or Android logo after cleaning. This can indicate damage to the system partition or a conflict of hardware components. In such cases, it may be necessary to re-enter Recovery and try to reset again, sometimes helping to clear the cache (Wipe Cache) before the main reset.

If a device requires Google account activation (FRP Lock) and you don't remember the password, standard methods to circumvent this restriction will not work. It's a mechanism to protect against theft. The only legal way is to restore access to your account through the Google site. Attempts to use third-party software to bypass FRP can lead to a complete lockdown of the device.

⚠️ Warning: If the phone turns on after reset but the screen remains black (although there is backlight and vibration), the interface download file may have been damaged.

Frequent questions about resetting Xiaomi Mi (FAQ)

In conclusion, we will answer the most popular questions that Xiaomi smartphone owners have during the cleaning procedure, which will help to avoid common errors and better understand the logic of the system.

💡

Regular resetting of settings (once every 1-2 years) prolongs the life of the smartphone, eliminating accumulated system errors, but doing this too often is not necessary.