A factory reset is one of the most effective solutions when your Android phone becomes slow, behaves abnormally, or you want to sell it to someone else. This process restores the device to its original settings by erasing all data — including apps, files, accounts, and customizations. In this article, we’ll explain what a factory reset is, when you should use it, how to back up data, and detailed methods to perform the reset safely.
What Is a Factory Reset?
A factory reset (also called “hard reset”) is a process that wipes your Android phone and restores it to the way it was when you first bought it.
After the reset:
- All apps are removed
- Personal files are deleted
- Settings return to default
- All logged-in accounts are removed
It’s basically a fresh start for your smartphone.
When Should You Factory Reset an Android Phone?
A factory reset can solve many problems, including:
- Phone running slow or lagging
- App crashes or system glitches
- Unwanted ads or malware infections
- Forgotten lock screen password (in some cases)
- Preparing the phone for selling
- Storage issues due to corrupted files
If you experience any of these, a reset can help restore performance.
Before Resetting: Important Things To Do
Factory reset deletes everything, so backup is essential.
Here’s what you should back up:
1. Backup via Google Account
- Go to Settings → Google → Backup
- Turn on Backup by Google One
- Tap Back up now
2. Backup Photos & Videos
- Use Google Photos (auto backup)
- Or move files to a PC / cloud storage
3. Backup WhatsApp
- Open WhatsApp → Settings → Chats → Chat backup
- Choose Google Drive backup
4. Save Contacts
- Contacts → Settings → Export / Sync to Google
Method 1: Factory Reset from Settings (Recommended)
This is the easiest method and works when your phone is functioning normally.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Open Settings
- Scroll down and tap System
- Select Reset options
- Tap Erase all data (factory reset)
- Confirm your screen lock
- Tap Erase everything
Your device will restart and begin the reset process. It usually takes 5–10 minutes.
Method 2: Factory Reset Using Recovery Mode
Use this method if your phone is:
- Locked
- Frozen
- Stuck in bootloop
- Unable to open settings
Steps:
- Turn off the phone
- Press and hold the Power + Volume Up buttons (may vary by brand)
- Release buttons when the Android Recovery screen appears
- Use volume buttons to navigate
- Select Wipe data/factory reset
- Confirm by selecting Yes
- Choose Reboot system now
This will completely wipe all data and restore factory settings.
Brand-Specific Key Combinations
| Brand | Recovery Mode Buttons |
|---|---|
| Samsung | Power + Volume Up |
| Xiaomi/Redmi | Power + Volume Up |
| Realme/Oppo | Power + Volume Down |
| Vivo | Power + Volume Up |
| OnePlus | Power + Volume Down |
| Motorola | Power + Volume Down |
(Combinations may vary slightly depending on model.)
What Happens After Reset?
Your device will restart like a brand-new phone.
You’ll see the setup screen:
- Choose language
- Connect Wi-Fi
- Sign into Google account
- Restore backup (optional)
Important Tips
- Remove your Google account before selling the phone (FRP lock)
- Keep your phone charged above 50% during reset
- Don’t power off the phone while the reset is in progress
- Reset does not remove SIM card or SD card data
Final Words
Factory resetting an Android phone is a quick and effective way to fix performance issues, remove bugs, or prepare the device before handing it to someone else. Just make sure to back up your important files before you start. If your phone keeps lagging even after a reset, there may be hardware issues — in that case, consider getting it checked by a technician.