Reset Xiaomi Redmi 4 to factory settings: all methods + nuances

Xiaomi Redmi 4 is one of the most popular budget smartphones of the brand, released in 2016. Despite its age, the device is still actively used due to its reliability and the ability to install custom firmware. However, over time, any gadget begins to slow down, give errors or require a reset before selling. In this article, we will analyze all possible ways to reset Redmi 4 to factory settings, including cases when the phone does not turn on or lock.

It is important to understand that a full reset deletes all data from internal memory, including photos, contacts and installed applications. If you forget the password from your Mi Account, the procedure can lead to locking the device, we will also tell you about this.

Preparation for resetting: what to do in advance

Before you start resetting, follow a few critical steps to avoid data loss and activation issues after the procedure.

1. Create a backup. Even if the phone is unstable, try to save important files:

• 📱 Contact and SMS: sync with Google Account or export through the Contacts app → Imports/Exports.

2. Make sure the battery is charged. If the discharge is interrupted due to discharge, the phone can turn into a brick. The minimum charge level before the procedure is 50%. At a critically low charge, plug the charger and wait at least 30-40%.

3. Check the Mi Account binding. If you forget the username/password from your Xiaomi account, after resetting, the device will require you to enter this data to unlock. Otherwise, the phone will become useless.

⚠️ Note: If you bought Redmi 4 handheld and the previous owner did not untie his Mi Account, the reset will lead to locking the device.

Method 1: Reset via the settings menu (if the phone is working)

This is the easiest and most secure method available if you remember the screen unlock password and can log in.

Instructions:

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Go to the section Additional → Backup and Reset.
3. Select Settings Reset.
4. Click Reset your phone settings.
5. When you request, enter PIN-lock-screen.
6. Confirm the action by clicking Delete Everything.

The process will take 3-5 minutes, and when it is finished, the phone will automatically restart and prompt you to set the system up as new.

⚠️ Note: If the Backup and Reset menu does not have Reset option, then the device has an unofficial firmware installed. In this case, use Method 2 (via Recovery).

Method 2: Hard Reset via MIUI Recovery (if the phone is not switched on or locked)

This method is suitable if:

• 🔒 Forgot the password/pattern lock of the lock screen.
• 📵 The phone is stuck on the logo. MI or cyclically reboot.
• 🛠️ You need to reset the device without access to the settings menu.

Instructions:

1. Turn off your phone. If it's frozen, press the power button for 10 to 15 seconds.
2. Press the button combination: For Redmi 4/4 Pro/4 Prime: Power button + Volume up.

Hold them until the Mi logo appears and vibrations (usually 5-10 seconds).

MIUI Recovery

Loudness down

Power button

Wipe Data

Wipe All Data

Confirm

Reboot

Reboot to System

If the menu is in Chinese, focus on the location of the items:

• 📛 The first item is Reboot (reboot).
• 🧹 The second item is Wipe Data (reset).
• 📥 Third item – Connect with MiAssistant (for firmware via PC).

Method 3: Fastboot Reset (for power users)

This method requires a computer and is used in extreme cases:

• 🔧 Recovery is damaged or missing.
• 📱 The phone doesn't respond to the buttons.
• 🔄 You need to reflash the device after a failed update.

Tools required:

• 💻 Computer with Windows/Mac/Linux.
• 🔌 Cable USB (preferably original......>
• 🛠️ Mi Flash Tool (download from the official website).
• 📄 Firmware for Redmi 4 (Choose the version for your model: santoni - Redmi 4/4X, prada — Redmi 4 Prime).

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off the phone.
2. Press the Power Button + Volume down for 5-10 seconds until a screen labeled Fastboot (Android Robot with Open Belly) appears.
3. Connect the phone to the computer.
4. Unpack the archive with firmware in a folder without Cyrillic characters (for example, C:\redmi4_firmware).
5. Launch the Mi Flash Tool, press Select and specify the path to the firmware folder.
6. Press Refresh – the program must detect the device (appears) COM-port).
7. Select firmware mode: Clean all - complete reset with the removal of all data. Clean all and lock - reset + lock the bootloader (not recommended).

Flash

⚠️ Note: Fastboot erases all data without recovery, including the contents of internal memory (including folder) DCIM If you are not sure of your actions, contact the service center.

1. Download Xiaomi Driver.

2. Open Device Manager on PC.

3.Look for a device with an exclamation point (usually Android Bootloader Interface).

4. Update the driver by specifying the path to the downloaded file.-->

What to do after resetting: setting up and possible problems

After a successful reset, the phone will start in initial setup mode.

Selection of language and region:

• 🌍 On the first screen, select Russian (or other language you want).
• 📍 Specify the region of Russia (or your country) – this is important for the correct operation of Google services.

Connection to the network:

• 📶 Select your Wi-Fi network and enter your password.
• If Wi-Fi is not available, use mobile data (insert). SIM-map).

Note

Mi Account

3. Sign in to Mi's account:

Data recovery:

• 📲 If you have previously made a backup through Mi Cloud, select Restore from the Cloud.
• 💾 For local copy, connect your phone to your PC and copy files manually.

Typical post-reset problems and their solutions:

💡

If after reset, the phone requires you to enter the password from Mi Account, but you do not remember it, do not try to choose combinations - after 5 unsuccessful attempts, the device will lock for 24 hours.

How to Avoid Mi Account Lockdown After Resetting

One of the most common problems with resetting Xiaomi Redmi 4 is locking because of the tied Mi Account.

1. Check the account status before resetting:

• 📌 Go to Settings. → Mi Account.
• 🔍 Make sure your Redmi 4 is displayed in the Devices section.
• 🔄 If the device is linked to someone else’s account (for example, after a hand-held purchase), ask the previous owner to untie it via i.mi.com.

2 Untie your account before selling:

• 📱 Go to Settings. → Mi Account → Get out.
• 🔄 Select Delete Account (Password will be required).
• ✅ After that, the reset will not lead to a lock.

3. If the phone is already locked:

• 📧 Try to restore access to Mi Account through the Recovery Form.
• 📄 If the device is purchased from hand, ask the seller: Check or contract of sale. Login and password from the linked account.
• 🛠️ In the absence of proof of purchase, unlocking is possible only through unofficial services (risk of fraud).

FAQ: Frequent questions about resetting Xiaomi Redmi 4