When troubleshooting iPhone issues or preparing a device for resale, users often encounter two options: Reset All Settings and Erase All Content and Settings. But what’s the difference between these options, and when should you use each one?
Many users get confused between the two options, leading to accidental data loss or ineffective troubleshooting. This article will introduce iPhone Reset vs Erase All Content and Settings, explain when to use each option, and outline the risks involved.
Part 1: What Is ‘Reset All Settings’ on iPhone?
Part 2: What Is ‘Erase All Content and Settings’ on iPhone?
Part 3: Reset All Settings vs Ease All Content and Settings
Part 4: How to Perform ‘Reset All Settings’ and ‘Erase All Content and Settings’
Bonus Tips: How to Reset or Erase iPhone if Forgot Passcode HOT
FAQs on Reset vs Erase All Content and Settings iPhone
Part 1: What Is ‘Reset All Settings’ on iPhone?
The Reset All Settings option restores your iPhone's system settings to their default state without deleting personal data, photos, or installed apps. But does resetting an iPhone delete everything? The answer is no. This option only resets settings like Wi-Fi configurations, Bluetooth connections, privacy settings, and display preferences, while keeping your personal files and apps intact.
Data and Settings That Remain Intact
- Photos, videos, and other personal data
- Installed applications and app data
- Messages and call logs
- iCloud and Apple ID
- Downloaded music and documents
When to Use Reset All Settings
- To fix minor software glitches (e.g., Wi-Fi or Bluetooth issues)
- To restore default settings after making system-wide changes
- When certain apps or features are malfunctioning
- To refresh settings without losing personal files
Pros & Cons of Reset All Settings
Pros
- No data loss
- Quick and easy to perform
- Fixes minor software issues
- Preserves user data and installed apps
Cons
- Does not resolve major iOS issues
- Requires reconfiguration settings
- Does not remove unwanted files or residual data
Part 2: What Is ‘Erase All Content and Settings’ on iPhone?
The Erase All Content and Settings option completely wipes your iPhone, returning it to factory settings. This means all personal data, installed apps, and settings are permanently deleted.
The Factory Reset Process
The device deletes all personal data, apps, and settings.
The iPhone restarts and returns to the setup screen as if it were brand new.
If Find My iPhone is enabled, the user must enter their Apple ID credentials after the reset.
The iPhone becomes ready for a new user or a fresh setup.
When to Use Erase All Content and Settings
- Before selling, donating, or giving away your iPhone
- To fix severe iOS issues, such as system crashes or persistent bugs
- If you want to start fresh with a clean slate
- To remove all personal data when switching to a new iPhone
Pros & Cons of Reset All Content and Settings
Pros
- Completely removes personal data for security
- Resolves major iOS issues
- Restores factory settings
- Prevents unauthorized access to personal information
Cons
- Permanently deletes all data (unless backed up)
- Requires full setup after resetting
- Can be time-consuming if reinstalling apps and settings manually
Part 3:Reset All Settings vs Ease All Content and Settings
To clarify the differences between reset and erase all content and settings, here is a side-by-side comparison:
| Feature | Reset All Settings | Erase All Content and Settings |
|---|---|---|
| Deletes Personal Data? | ❌ | ✅ |
| Deletes Installed Apps? | ❌ | ✅ |
| Fixes Minor Issues? | ✅ | ✅ |
| Fixes Major iOS Issues? | ❌ | ✅ |
| Requires Setup Afterward? | ❌ | ✅ |
| Suitable Before Selling? | ❌ | ✅ |
| Helps Free Up Space? | ❌ | ✅ |
Which Option Should I Use?
Should I use reset or erase my iPhone? Hrere are some common cases that you can take referrence:
- For minor issues (e.g., Wi-Fi or Bluetooth problems): Use Reset All Settings.
- Before selling your iPhone: Use Erase All Content and Settings.
- For performance issues or severe software problems: Use Erase All Content and Settings.
- If you only need to restore system settings without losing files: Use Reset All Settings.
Part 4: How to Perform ‘Reset All Settings’ and ‘Erase All Content and Settings’
Steps to Reset All Settings
Open Settings on your iPhone.
Go to General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
Tap Reset > Reset All Settings.
Enter your passcode and confirm.
Wait for your iPhone to restart with default settings.
Steps to Erase All Content and Settings
Open Settings on your iPhone.
Go to General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
Tap Erase All Content and Settings.
If prompted, enter your passcode and Apple ID password.
Confirm and wait for the reset process to complete.
Important Precautions
- Back up your iPhone before performing any reset to prevent data loss.
- Sign out of iCloud before selling or giving away your device to avoid activation lock.
- Ensure your iPhone is charged or plugged in to prevent interruptions.
- If you want to recover data after erasing, use iCloud or iTunes backup.
Bonus Tips: How to Reset or Erase iPhone if Forgot Passcode
Both iPhone Reset and Erase All Content and Settings require you to enter the screen password to proceed. But what if you've forgotten your password? This can be a frustrating situation, especially if you need to reset your iPhone for troubleshooting, selling, or simply refreshing your device.
Thankfully, PassFab iPhone Unlock is here to help. This powerful tool offers an easy and reliable solution for unlocking your iPhone without the need for a password. Whether you're locked out of your device or unable to access important settings, PassFab iPhone Unlock ensures you regain control of your iPhone in just a few simple steps.
- Fast - Remove screen lock/iPhone Passcode/Activation Lock in minutes
- Secure - Bypass screen time/MDM lock without data loss
- Easy to operate - Unlock by yourself at home without hassle
- Compatible - Compatible with the latest iOS 18 and iPhone 16 models
- Supports Windows and MacOS
*An OTG cable is required
Steps to Reset iPhone without Password
After the installation of the software, connect your device to the computer and select Unlock iOS Screen from the interface.
The program will then recognize your device, click Next to continue.
You need to download a firmware for the following unlocking process. Once the file is downloaded, click Start to Remove to set your iPhone to default settings.
Wait for the process to complete until you see “Screen Lock Removed Successfully” on the interface.
FAQs on Resetting and Erasing iPhone
Q1: Will Resetting All Settings Delete My Photos and Apps?
No, Reset All Settings does not delete your personal data, photos, or installed apps. It only resets system settings.
Q2: Does ‘Erase All Content and Settings’ Remove iCloud and Apple ID?
Yes, but only if you manually sign out of iCloud before erasing your device. Otherwise, Activation Lock will remain enabled.
Q3: Can I Recover Data After Erasing My iPhone?
No, unless you have a backup. Use iCloud or iTunes backup to restore your data after resetting.
Q4: Is ‘Reset All Settings’ Enough to Fix iOS Issues?
For minor issues, yes. However, for severe problems, Erase All Content and Settings is a better option.
Q5: What Happens If I Don’t Sign Out of iCloud Before Erasing?
The device will still be linked to your Apple ID, and the new user will be unable to activate it without your credentials.
Conclusion
Choosing between Reset All Settings vs Erase All Content and Settings depends on your needs. If you are troubleshooting minor issues, a settings reset is usually enough. However, if you need a complete wipe for security or major fixes, erasing all content is the way to go.
If neither option resolves your issue, consider updating iOS or seeking professional support. Properly managing your iPhone resets can help maintain optimal performance and security.
PassFab iPhone Unlock
- Fast - Remove screen lock/iPhone Passcode/Activation Lock in minutes
- Secure - Bypass screen time/MDM lock without data loss
- Easy to operate - Unlock by yourself at home without hassle
- Compatible - Compatible with the latest iOS 18 and iPhone 16 models
- Supports Windows and MacOS
PassFab iPhone Unlock has Recommended by many medias, like macworld, makeuseof, appleinsider, etc.
