How to factory reset your Google Pixel phone

⚡ Fast fix

• Phone still working? Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset).
• Locked out? Use recovery mode to reset without unlocking your Pixel®.
• Back it up first. A reset deletes everything, so save your data to your Google® account.
• Won’t turn on? Charge it and try recovery mode again.

Something’s not working right with your Pixel™, or maybe you’re getting ready to sell it. A factory reset can help—just be sure to back up your data first.

Whether you’re troubleshooting or wiping your phone clean, Asurion Experts are here to guide you. We help millions of people get the most out of their phones every year, and we’ll walk you through how to reset your Pixel the safe way.

What to do before you factory reset

Resetting your phone will erase everything—photos, apps, and settings. Here’s what to do before starting.

Back up your data

Save your contacts, photos, and apps to your Google account so you can restore them later. If you need help, check out this guide on how to back up your Android phone.

Charge your phone

Make sure your device has at least 50% battery to avoid interruptions.

Know your Google account

After the reset, you’ll need to sign in again. This is part of Google’s security system.

How to factory reset a Google Pixel

If your phone is still working normally, this is the easiest method.

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap System.
3. Tap Reset options.
4. Tap Erase all data (factory reset).
5. Tap Erase all data and confirm.

Your phone will restart and begin the reset process. Once it finishes, it’ll be like it was fresh out of the box—ready to set up again or pass along to someone else.

How to factory reset a Pixel without a password

If you can’t unlock your phone, you’ll need to use recovery mode. Here's how:

1. Turn off your Pixel.
2. Press and hold the Power and Volume down buttons.
3. When the bootloader appears, use the volume buttons to highlight Recovery mode, then press Power.
4. When you see the Android robot, hold Power, then press Volume up once.
5. Select Wipe data/factory reset.
6. Confirm your selection.

FAQ

How do I factory reset my Google Pixel?

Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset).

Can I factory reset my Pixel without unlocking it?

Yes. Use recovery mode to reset the phone without needing your PIN or password.

Will a factory reset delete everything?

Yes. It removes all apps, photos, accounts, and settings from your device.

Can I recover data after a factory reset?

Only if you backed it up beforehand using your Google account.

Why won’t my Pixel turn on after a reset?

It could be a battery or hardware issue. Here’s what to try if your Android won’t turn on.