How to Reset a OnePlus Phone: Settings & Recovery Mode

To reset a OnePlus phone, open Settings, tap System, then Reset options, and select Erase all data (factory reset) if your model and software version show that option. This is the standard method to wipe the device and restore it to factory condition, whether you are troubleshooting problems or preparing to sell the phone.

How to reset a OnePlus phone from Settings

Open Settings on your OnePlus phone.
Tap System.
Tap Reset options.
If your model and software version show it, tap Erase all data (factory reset).
If prompted, enter your PIN, password, or pattern to confirm the reset.
Confirm with the on-screen erase button if shown.

This menu path is documented on official carrier pages for the OnePlus 8 and OnePlus 8 5G UW. Exact menu names and placement can vary by model and software version.

How to reset a OnePlus phone from Recovery mode

If your phone will not boot or you cannot access Settings, you can reset it through Recovery mode using hardware buttons. Press and hold Power + Volume Down until the OnePlus logo appears, then use the recovery menu to choose the wipe option. Note that key combinations can vary by model, a non-official guide suggests the OnePlus 9 uses Volume Up + Power instead. This method is documented in retrieved material but comes from non-official sources, so it is not confirmed OnePlus support documentation.

Factory reset vs. reset app preferences

These are not the same. AT&T documents Reset app preferences under Settings > System > Reset options on the OnePlus 8, which resets app-related defaults, such as disabled apps, notification permissions, and default app associations, without erasing your personal data. A full factory reset, by contrast, erases all data on the device. While you are factory resetting phones, be certain you have selected the correct option to avoid unintended data loss.

What to know before you reset

A factory reset erases all data, including apps, accounts, photos, and settings. Remove the memory card before performing the reset to prevent accidental data loss or formatting. Make a list of currently installed apps and note any app settings or preferences to remember for reinstallation after the reset. Unlocking a OnePlus phone for use with different carriers requires an unlock code and will result in a factory reset, erasing all data. Ensure your phone has sufficient charge or is connected to a power source before starting. After a factory reset, update the phone to the latest software version to ensure you have the latest security patches and features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a factory reset the same as resetting app preferences?

No. Resetting app preferences under Settings > System > Reset options only restores app-related defaults and does not erase your personal data. A factory reset erases all data on the phone.

Can a OnePlus phone be reset from Recovery mode?

Yes. The hardware-key method using Power + Volume Down can access a recovery menu with a wipe option, though the exact recovery menu labels appear only in non-official results. Key combinations may differ by model.