Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →To reset a Samsung Galaxy S phone, first decide whether you mean a restart, a settings reset, or a factory data reset. A restart does not erase saved data; resetting settings can preserve apps and personal data; a factory reset removes personal data. If you can unlock the phone, use Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset to wipe it. Back up anything important before confirming.
Which kind of reset does your Galaxy S need?
“Reset” can mean several different actions. Choose the least destructive option that addresses the problem.
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| Option | What it does | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Restart | Turns the phone off and back on without erasing saved data. | Use for a temporary issue or to close running apps. |
| Reset all settings | Restores settings while retaining apps, personal data, accounts, and security and language settings. Settings for downloaded apps are also retained. | Use when you want to undo settings changes without wiping the phone. |
| Reset network settings | Resets selected mobile-network or Wi-Fi and Bluetooth settings while retaining apps and personal data. You may need to reconnect to Wi-Fi and pair Bluetooth accessories again. | Use for a network or connection problem. |
| Factory data reset | Restores factory settings and removes personal data stored on the phone. | Use when you intend to wipe the phone, such as before transferring it, or as a last-resort troubleshooting step. |
Samsung says menu names and screens can differ by model and software version. The steps below describe Samsung’s US Settings route; consult the instructions for your exact model if the labels differ. Samsung’s reset instructions explain the available reset options.
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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesWhat to do before a factory reset
- Back up what you need. Save photos, videos, documents, contacts, and other important items before wiping the phone. Samsung recommends backing up personal data; Samsung India lists Smart Switch on a phone or PC as an option. Confirm that the backup is complete and accessible. Backup coverage can vary, so do not assume every item has been included. Samsung US backup and reset guidance and Samsung India’s Smart Switch guidance provide details.
- Know your account credentials. Samsung may ask for the Samsung account password during the reset. If you reset outside Settings, Google Factory Reset Protection may require the Google account previously registered on the phone during setup. Do not begin unless you can access the required accounts.
- Keep the phone powered. Avoid interrupting the reset once it has started. It will restart when the process is complete.
Factory reset a Galaxy S through Settings
Use this method if you can unlock the phone and navigate its Settings app. The route below is from Samsung US support; wording and screen layout may vary.
#1 Best Overall
- Display: 6.2" AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and 1300 nits brightness for vivid visuals and smooth scrolling.
- Camera: Rear dual camera system with 64MP main and 12MP ultrawide lenses for stunning photos and videos.
- Memory: 128GB internal storage and 8GB RAM for plenty of apps and files.
- Connectivity: 5G capable with support for GSM, CDMA, and Wi-Fi networks.
- Battery: 4000mAh battery provides all-day power for your daily needs.
- Open Settings.
- Tap General management.
- Tap Reset, then Factory data reset.
- Review the information shown, then tap Reset.
- Tap Delete all to confirm.
- Enter the screen-lock credentials or Samsung account password if prompted.
- Wait for the phone to restart to the initial setup screen.
If you cannot find the menu, search Settings for “Factory data reset” or check Samsung’s instructions for your model and software version. Do not choose Reset all settings if your intention is to erase the phone; it is a different, less destructive option. Samsung US: Perform a factory reset on your Galaxy phone or tablet.
If you cannot open Settings
Samsung documents using Android recovery to factory-reset some devices, but recovery access and hardware-key combinations vary by model. Samsung France’s instructions, updated June 25, 2026, illustrate the process on a Galaxy S24+ running Android 15 and One UI 7: the example connects the powered-off phone to a computer by USB before using hardware keys to enter recovery. In recovery, volume keys navigate to Wipe data/factory reset, and the power key selects it. This is an example for that configuration, not a universal Galaxy S sequence. Samsung France’s recovery instructions show the model-specific procedure.
Rank #2
- 6.1", 1080 x 2340pixels, Infinity-O FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X Display, 3700mAh Battery, Wireless Powershare
- 128GB ROM, 8GB RAM, No SD Card Slot, Qualcomm SM8450 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm), Octa-Core, Adreno 730
- Rear Camera: 50MP, f/1.8 + 10MP, f/2.4 + 12MP, f/2.2, Front Camera: 10 MP, f/2.2, Android 12, One UI 4.1
- CDMA 800/1900, 3G: HSDPA 850/900/1700(AWS)/1900/2100, CDMA2000 1xEV-DO, 4G LTE: 1/2/3/4/5/7/8/12/13/14/18/19/20/25/26/28/29/30/38/39/40/41/46/48/66/71, 5G: 1/3/5/7/8/20/28/38/41/66/71/260/261SA/NSA/Sub6/mmWave - Single SIM
- Compatible with Most GSM and CDMA Carriers like T-Mobile, AT&T, MetroPCS, etc. Will Also work with CDMA Carriers Such as Verizon, Sprint.
Before using recovery, find Samsung’s instructions for your exact model. A reset started outside Settings can trigger Google Factory Reset Protection and require the previously registered Google account at setup. A reset can also ask for your Samsung account password. If you cannot access the required account, contact Samsung support or an authorized service channel rather than attempting to bypass verification.
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If the phone is stuck in a boot loop
A factory reset is a last resort for a phone that repeatedly restarts or will not start, not the first troubleshooting step. Follow Samsung’s boot-loop troubleshooting guidance before deciding to erase the phone. A factory reset removes personal data and is not a guaranteed fix for hardware failure. Samsung Galaxy device will not start or is in a boot loop.
Rank #3
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
When to contact Samsung
Get model-specific help if the recovery key sequence is unclear, the phone cannot complete a reset, or account verification prevents setup. Samsung’s support page for factory-reset issues advises contacting Samsung when the reset cannot be completed. If you suspect a hardware fault, seek service instead of assuming a data wipe will repair it.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Galaxy S23 sports a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X flat display with adaptive 48–120 Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, and a peak brightness high enough for strong outdoor visibility — giving you vibrant, crisp visuals and smooth motion while staying compact.
Rank #4
- The S22 uses a flat (non‑curved) 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with adaptive 120 Hz refresh that dynamically adjusts between 48 – 120 Hz depending on content — which means smoother scrolling and better battery efficiency when high refresh isn’t needed.
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