How to factory reset a Samsung tablet

💡 Need to know

• This wipes everything: A factory reset erases apps, photos, and settings—back up first.
• Use it as a last resort: Try a restart or update before going this far.
• You’ll need your login: Your Google or Samsung account may be required after reset.
• Charge up first: Make sure your tablet has enough battery to finish the reset safely.

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Factory resetting your Samsung Galaxy® tablet can seem scary. If you mess up the process, you can lose all your data—photos, videos, texts, everything. But don't worry, we can help make sure your factory reset goes smoothly

At Asurion, we've got your tech problems covered, no matter how difficult they may be. Here's how to factory reset a Samsung® tablet.

When should you try a factory reset on your Samsung tablet?

Factory resetting your Samsung tablet deletes any photos, videos, or other personal information on the device.

There are four reasons to take this step:

1. You've lost your device.
2. There's a technical issue you can't otherwise resolve, like the operating system not launching apps correctly.
3. You have to clear the device to rid it of viruses and malware.
4. You're reselling your device or giving it away.

Should you back up your data before resetting?

Yes, absolutely. If you don't back up your data before you factory reset your device, you'll lose all your personal information.

If you need help backing up your Samsung tablet, we've got all the information you need in our guide.

How to reset Samsung tablet to factory settings

Follow these steps to factory reset that Samsung tablet. And remember, if you're nervous about doing this, you can always ask for expert help.

How to factory reset your Samsung tablet when it's turned on

Here's how to factory reset your Samsung tablet directly from it's settings menu.

1. Open Settings, then tap General management > Reset.
2. Tap Factory Data Reset > Reset > Delete all.

How to factory reset your Samsung tablet when it's turned off

If you can't get to your tablet's settings screen or have to reset your tablet without the password, here's how you can get it done.

1. With the Samsung tablet turned off, press and hold the Volume Up and Power buttons. Release both buttons when the Android™ Recovery screen appears.
2. Use the Volume buttons to cycle through available options and the Power button to select Wipe data/factory reset.
3. Select Yes.
4. Select Reboot system now.

How to factory reset your Samsung tablet without password

If you can’t unlock your tablet, you can reset it using Recovery Mode:

1. Turn the tablet off
2. Press and hold Power + Volume Up (on some models, Power + Volume Up + Home)
3. Release when the Samsung logo appears
4. Use the volume buttons to highlight Wipe data/factory reset
5. Press the power button to select it
6. Confirm, then choose Reboot system now

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How do you factory reset a Samsung tablet if you've lost it?

Lost your tablet? You can still wipe it remotely—as long as tracking was turned on before it went missing.

Use Google Find My Device

1. Go to https://google.com/android/find
2. Sign in with your Google account
3. Select your tablet
4. Tap Erase device

Or use Samsung Find My Mobile (best for Samsung tablets)

1. Go to https://findmymobile.samsung.com
2. Sign in with your Samsung account
3. Select your tablet
4. Tap Erase data

These tools work as long as your tablet is powered on and connected to the internet. If it’s offline, the reset will start automatically the next time it connects.

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Setting up your Samsung tablet after a factory reset

After the reset, your tablet will start fresh—just like out of the box.

1. Choose your language
2. Connect to Wi-Fi
3. Sign in with your Google account
4. Restore apps and data (or skip to start clean)

One important thing: you’ll need the same Google or Samsung account that was previously on the device. This is a security feature called Factory Reset Protection, and it’s still required in 2026.

Once you’re signed in, you’re good to go.

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FAQ

Will a factory reset delete all my data?

Yes. A factory reset wipes all personal data from your device. That's why it's important to back up your tablet first.

How long does a factory reset take?

It should only take a few minutes. If you notice your tablet is taking longer on a page or cycling through endlessly, something happened in the middle of your reset and you may need to talk to an expert.

Can a factory reset fix a frozen tablet?

Yes, but if you're using a factory reset to solve a tech problem, it should be your last resort.