To reset a Samsung phone, the primary method is through the Settings menu by navigating to General management, then Reset, and selecting Factory data reset. This process erases all personal data and restores the device to its original factory state, making it the most common approach for resolving software issues or preparing a phone for a new owner.
How to reset a Samsung phone from Settings
Performing a factory data reset from the Settings menu is the most direct and verified way to reset a Samsung phone. Samsung reset pages apply to Galaxy phone or tablet. Follow these steps exactly as documented by Samsung:
- Open Settings.
- Tap General management.
- Tap Reset.
- Tap Factory data reset.
- Review the information displayed on the screen.
- Tap Reset or DELETE ALL, depending on your device model or region. Samsung factory data reset confirm button may be DELETE ALL instead of Reset.
- If prompted, enter your PIN, pattern, or password to confirm.
- Wait for the device to restart automatically or after a few moments.
This method applies to any Samsung Galaxy phone or tablet. The confirmation button may appear as Reset on some devices or DELETE ALL on others, but both actions complete the same factory data reset process. Apple iPhone erase path: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
How to reset only settings without erasing data
If you need to fix system glitches without losing your personal files, Samsung offers a separate reset path that preserves your data. This is distinct from a factory reset and is ideal for troubleshooting minor issues. To reset only the settings:
- Open Settings.
- Tap General management.
- Tap Reset.
- Tap Reset all settings.
- Review the information and tap Reset settings.
- Tap Reset to confirm.
Samsung explicitly documents that this action does not erase security or language settings, accounts, personal data, or settings for downloaded apps. It only reverts system and interface settings to their defaults, making it a safe option for users who want to troubleshoot without the data loss that comes with factory resetting phones. Samsung's Reset all settings action does not delete personal data, but a Factory data reset does.
How to reset a locked or unresponsive Samsung phone
When the Settings menu is inaccessible, for example, if the phone is frozen or you have forgotten the screen lock, you can still reset the device using alternative methods. Samsung documents two primary approaches for this scenario.
Using the power and volume buttons
Most Samsung phones support a button-based reset method when the device is unresponsive. Samsung says some devices support resetting using the buttons on your device when Settings is unavailable. While Samsung does not list the exact button combination in its official support pages, Google confirms that most Android phones, including Samsung models, can be factory reset using the power and volume buttons. Typically, this involves turning off the device, then pressing and holding specific buttons to enter recovery mode, where a factory reset option is available.
Using SmartThings Find
In some regions, Samsung offers a remote reset option through SmartThings Find. Samsung's UK support page lists SmartThings Find as another factory reset method. This service allows you to erase your phone remotely from another device, provided the phone is signed into your Samsung account and connected to the internet. This method is particularly useful if the phone is lost or locked and you cannot access the physical buttons.
What to do before you reset your Samsung phone
A factory data reset erases all personal data, including contacts, photos, videos, apps, and accounts. Taking verified precautions ensures you do not lose important information.
- Back up your data: Samsung Gulf explicitly recommends backing up using Samsung Cloud, Google Drive, or a computer. This ensures your files are preserved and can be restored after the reset. Samsung Gulf explicitly says to back up with Samsung Cloud, Google Drive, or a computer.
- Understand what is erased: A factory data reset removes all personal data, downloaded apps, and customized settings.
- Remove SIM and memory cards: While not required, removing these cards prevents accidental data loss if the reset process affects external storage. On iPhone, Apple says you can keep or delete the eSIM, and deleting it requires carrier reactivation.
- Log out of accounts: Sign out of your Google and Samsung accounts before resetting to avoid activation lock issues after the process completes. On iPhone, you may need your device passcode and Apple Account password to erase the phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will resetting my Samsung phone delete my photos and videos?
Yes, a factory data reset deletes all photos and videos stored on the device's internal storage. To keep them, back up to Samsung Cloud, Google Drive, or a computer before resetting.
How long does it take to reset a Samsung phone?
The process typically takes a few minutes to complete, but it can take longer if the device has a large amount of data to erase. The phone will restart automatically once the reset finishes.
What happens after I reset my Samsung phone?
After the reset, the phone returns to its original factory state. You will need to set it up as a new device, sign in to your Google and Samsung accounts, and reinstall any apps you want to use.
Can I reset my Samsung phone without losing data?
Yes, use the Reset all settings option under Settings > General management > Reset. This reverts system settings to default but does not delete your personal files, accounts, or downloaded apps.
Do I need my Google password after a factory reset?
If Factory Reset Protection (FRP) is enabled on your Samsung phone, you will need the Google account credentials that were previously signed in on the device to verify ownership after the reset. Disable FRP by removing your Google account from the phone before resetting to avoid this requirement.
