# How to factory reset your Steam Deck

> Two methods to wipe your Steam Deck and restore it to factory condition.
- Title: How to factory reset your Steam Deck · Engadget | Shortify
- Summary: Two methods to wipe your Steam Deck and restore it to factory condition. Back up your save files before factory resetting, and use the Settings menu for…
- Keywords: steam deck, factory reset, troubleshooting, steamos, recovery mode, gaming handheld, system maintenance, technology, factory, reset, Steam, Deck
- Source: Engadget — https://engadget.com/2257819/how-to-factory-reset-steam-deck
- Author: Isaac Egbon
- Published: 2026-09-19T14:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: steam deck, factory reset, troubleshooting, steamos, recovery mode, gaming handheld, system maintenance, technology
## When to factory reset
A factory reset fixes performance issues, corrupted files, and bugs that simple restarts can't solve. It's also the best way to prepare your Steam Deck for sale.
## Back up before you reset
Factory reset erases everything on your Steam Deck, including installed games and save files. Back up your save files, controller layouts, and anything outside Steam Cloud before proceeding.
## Reset from Settings menu
Open Settings, go to System, scroll to Advanced, select Reset to Factory State, toggle Reinstall SteamOS if troubleshooting, and confirm. The process takes 10 to 15 minutes and requires an internet connection.
## Try troubleshooting first
Before factory resetting, restart your device, check for software updates, or roll back to a previous SteamOS version if an update caused the problem.
## Recovery mode reset
If your Steam Deck won't boot normally, hold Power and the three-dot button until you hear the boot sound, then select Erase User Data from the SteamOS menu to factory reset.
## Rollback option available
From the SteamOS menu in recovery mode, you can roll back to a previous SteamOS version while keeping your user data. The rollback only lasts until the next restart.
## Key takeaway

Back up your save files before factory resetting, and use the Settings menu for normal resets or recovery mode if your device won't boot.