How to Factory Reset Android Phone: Complete Beginner’s Tutorial

If your Android phone is running slow, freezing, or acting strangely, performing a factory reset is often the best way to solve persistent issues. It clears all user data and restores the device to its original state. In this complete beginner’s tutorial, you’ll learn exactly how to factory reset Android phone models safely and effectively.

Whether you use a Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, or another Android-based smartphone, this guide will help you wipe your phone clean, remove personal files, and get your device running like new. We also cover how to reset a locked phone and what steps to take before the reset.

Why Factory Reset an Android Device?

People choose to reset their Android devices for various reasons:

• Performance issues, like lagging and freezing
• Preparing the device for resale or trade-in
• Troubleshooting after a software glitch or update
• Removing malware or persistent errors
• Regaining access to a locked or forgotten password screen

Resetting gives your phone a clean slate, improving performance and eliminating unnecessary data.

Does a Factory Reset Delete All Data?

Yes. A factory reset erases everything stored locally on your phone. This includes:

• Photos, videos, and downloads
• Installed apps and app data
• Messages and call history
• Saved Wi-Fi networks and settings
• Contacts and accounts on the device

Anything backed up to your Google account, such as contacts, calendar entries, and Google Photos, can be recovered after the reset.

Pre-Reset Checklist for Android Phones

Before initiating the factory data reset, complete these key steps:

1. Back Up Important Files
   • Use Google Drive, Google Photos, or an external storage device
   • Go to Settings > Google > Backup, then enable “Back up to Google Drive”
   • You can also explore these 4 ways to back up your mobile phone’s software and data for more options.
2. Remove Your Google Account
   • Navigate to Settings > Accounts > Google and remove your account to avoid activation lock after the reset
3. Charge Your Device
   • Ensure the battery is at least 50% or keep it connected to a charger
4. Secure Personal Info
   • Note down login credentials and Wi-Fi passwords to simplify the setup later

These actions ensure a smooth reset without data loss or account lock issues.

How to Factory Reset Android Phone from Settings

Samsung Galaxy Devices:

1. Open Settings
2. Tap General Management
3. Select Reset > Factory Data Reset
4. Review the information and tap Reset, then Delete All
5. Enter your PIN or pattern if required

Google Pixel and Other Android Devices:

1. Open Settings
2. Tap System > Reset Options
3. Choose Erase All Data (Factory Reset)
4. Confirm by selecting Reset Phone
5. Enter your security credentials to proceed

The process may take several minutes. Once completed, your device will reboot to its factory state.

How to Factory Reset Android Phone without Access

If you’re locked out or forgot the password, use recovery mode to factory reset Android phone models manually.

Reset Samsung Without Password:

1. Power off the phone
2. Press and hold Volume Up + Power + Bixby (or Volume Up + Power)
3. Release the buttons when the Samsung logo appears
4. Use the volume buttons to select Wipe Data/Factory Reset, then press Power to confirm

Reset Google Pixel or Other Devices:

1. Turn off the phone
2. Hold Volume Down + Power until the Fastboot screen appears
3. Use the volume keys to choose Recovery Mode
4. When the Android logo appears, press Power, then tap Volume Up
5. Select Wipe Data/Factory Reset using the volume and power buttons

This method restores the device even if you can’t access the main interface.

What to Do After Resetting Your Phone

After performing a hard or soft reset:

• Sign in with your Google credentials
• Restore files and settings from your Google backup
• Reinstall essential applications from the Play Store
• Check for system and security updates

Ensure the factory reset was successful by reviewing performance and available storage. If issues persist, there may be a hardware or deeper system issue.

Conclusion

Now you know how to factory reset Android phone devices with confidence. Whether you’re troubleshooting performance, preparing to sell your phone, or trying to bypass a lock screen, these reset methods can help you regain control.

Use this guide to secure your data, prepare your settings, and restore your device properly. Remember, factory resetting should be a last resort—but when used wisely, it’s a powerful way to start fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions