How to Factory Reset MacBook: A Step-by-Step Guide

Planning to get a new MacBook but have no idea how to factory reset the current one? Scroll through this till the end, and get your hands on the precise procedure to get it done in no time.

In this guide, we’ll discuss the procedure to factory reset a MacBook, covering both Intel-based and Apple Silicon models.

Why Factory Reset a MacBook?

There could be a variety of reasons to reset a MacBook, but here are some of the common reasons to perform a factory reset on your device.

1. One of the common reasons could be that you’re encountering performance issues.
2. Another could be you’re planning to buy one or hand over the current one to someone else.
3. You want to erase the personal data securely; this could be another reason to perform a factory reset on your device.
4. Lastly, your device is lagging, and you are planning to reinstall macOS from scratch to resolve that.

These are some of the few reasons that could be behind your decision to factory reset your MacBook. But regardless of your reason, knowing the exact steps to perform is needed, so head off to the next sections and learn how to factory reset a MacBook.

Before You Start: Important Preparations

Right before you begin resetting it, here’s a list of things that you need to take care of before you begin the process. So, give it a good read!

Backup Your Data

Make full use of the Time Machine feature (it’s a built-in backup feature on macOS) that allows users to back up their Mac’s files to an external storage device. With this feature, you can get your data stored here and later transfer it to your new Mac or other device.

Sign Out of all Apps

Before formatting, make sure to sign out of all the applications like iCloud, iMessage, and other services. Here are the steps mentioned to do so:

1. iCloud: Go to System Settings > Apple ID > Overview and click Sign Out
2. iMessage: Open the Messages app > Preferences > iMessage tab, and sign out
3. Other Services: Like iTunes or iMusic, and more, ensure that you’re signed out of these, too.

Know Your macOS Version & Chip Type

Not every Mac has the same procedure, so you should know your macOS version & chip type. To check your chip type, you can go to the ‘Apple Menu’ and then ‘About This Mac.’

How to Factory Reset a MacBook? (macOS Ventura & later)

Now that you know the important pointers before resetting your device, here’s a step-by-step guide to factory resetting for different versions.

For Apple Silicon or T2 Chip Macs

1. To begin with, start by shutting down and pressing the power button for a long time.
2. You’ll see a ‘Loading startup options’ tap, on that to enter the recovery mode.
3. Scroll down to Options and then click on Continue.
4. Navigate to ‘Disk Utility,’ and follow these pointers.
   • Choose Macintosh HD
   • Click Erase, use APFS format, and confirm
   • Quit Disk Utility when done
5. Here you go, it’s done.

For Intel-based Macs

1. Again, to begin with, start by shutting down and pressing the power button for a long time.
2. To enter the recovery mode, long-press Command + R until the Apple logo appears.
3. Now, follow these pointers:
   • Open Disk Utility
   • Select Macintosh HD 
   • Click Erase
   • Quit Disk Utility when done
4. Here you go, it’s done.

Additionally, if you want to reinstall it (in both cases), follow the prompts to download and install a fresh copy.

After the Reset

Once the reset is complete, the MacBook will boot to the setup screen (like a new one). From there, you can set it up as new or hand it over to the other person.

It’s good to go!

Quick Tips

To avoid any hurdles during the process, make sure to keep these tips in mind:

• You should be connected to Wi-Fi throughout the resetting and reinstallation process.
• For M1/M2/M3 Mac users, always use the power button method, not keyboard shortcuts.
• Make sure to sign out of iCloud, it’s much needed to disable Activation Lock.

BONUS – Final Thoughts

To reset your Mac and give it a fresh start, you should know the exact steps to erase your data and restore it to a clean state. So, whether you’re formatting to resolve a technical issue or for a handover, following the correct reset procedure is a must.