Factory resetting an Android phone will delete all your data, including your contacts, photos, apps, and more. If you don’t want to delete everything, you must back up your device before proceeding.
A hard reset can be helpful if you’re giving the phone away or if you want to start with a clean device. This guide shows you how to reset your Android device to its default settings using factory reset and recovery mode.
Before you start: Back up all your important data, such as contacts, photos, and apps, using Google Drive or another backup service. Ensure your device is charged to at least 50% to avoid interruptions.
Warning: This process will permanently erase all data on your device and cannot be undone. Double-check your backup before proceeding.
Follow these steps based on your device version or preferred approach to perform a complete factory reset.
For devices running Android 5.0 and newer, you can factory reset your device by opening the Settings app, tapping Backup and reset (you may need to tap Additional settings first on newer versions; on Samsung devices, tap General Management → Reset), tapping Erase all data (factory reset), tapping Erase data, and then tapping Erase data again to confirm.
For older Android devices, the process is slightly different. Open the Settings app, tap Backup & reset (you may need to scroll down or go under Personal or Privacy; on Samsung, check General Management → Reset), tap Factory data reset, tap Reset Phone, enter your screen-lock passcode (pattern, PIN, or password), and then tap Erase everything to confirm.
If your device is unresponsive, you can use recovery mode to factory reset it. Power off your device, boot into recovery mode by holding the device-specific button combo (usually Volume Up + Power, or Volume Up + Home + Power on Samsung; for Pixel, hold Volume Down + Power), select a language using the volume buttons and confirm with the power button, select Wipe data, select Format data (this is the factory reset option), enter the verification code if prompted, and then tap Format.
Pro tip: If your device is unresponsive and you can’t access the Settings app, the recovery mode method is your best option for a forced reset without needing the screen lock.
Performing a factory reset ensures your Android phone returns to its original state, free from accumulated clutter, malware, or performance issues that slow it down over time. This is especially valuable when selling or donating your device, as it protects your personal information from falling into the wrong hands.
By erasing everything, you also resolve stubborn software glitches that basic troubleshooting can’t fix, giving your phone a fresh start. Beyond security and speed, a reset can extend your device’s usability, making it feel like new without buying a replacement. It’s a simple way to maintain privacy in an era of data breaches. Regularly backing up before resets builds good habits for data management, ensuring you never lose irreplaceable memories or work files.
