How to Reset a Samsung TV to Factory Settings

What a factory reset does and when to use it

A factory reset erases all settings, apps, and accounts from your Samsung TV and returns it to the state it left the factory. This clears out saved Wi-Fi passwords, streaming service logins, picture adjustments, and any apps you installed. Use a factory reset when your TV is freezing, apps are crashing, you want to remove all personal data before selling or giving it away, or you are troubleshooting a problem that started after you changed settings.

A factory reset does not fix hardware problems like a broken screen or unresponsive remote. If your TV will not turn on or the picture is physically damaged, a reset will not help. Also, a reset takes 10 to 15 minutes and requires you to set up your TV again from scratch, so try simpler fixes first—unplugging the TV for 30 seconds, checking for software updates, or restarting individual apps.

Key Takeaways

You can reset a Samsung TV through the Settings menu on most models made after 2016, without needing a remote or computer.
The reset process erases all apps, logins, Wi-Fi passwords, and picture settings, so write down any custom adjustments before you start.
After a factory reset, your TV will boot up as if it is brand new and ask you to choose a language and connect to Wi-Fi.
If your TV will not turn on or respond to the remote, you can perform a hard reset by unplugging it for 30 seconds instead.
A factory reset does not fix broken hardware, so if the screen is cracked or the remote is unresponsive, a reset will not solve the problem.

Reset through the Settings menu (most common method)

This method works on Samsung TVs from 2016 onward that have a working remote and can display the menu. Start by pressing the Home button on your remote to open the main menu. If your remote does not have a Home button, press the button with three horizontal lines (the menu icon) instead.

Navigate to Settings using the arrow buttons on your remote. The Settings icon usually looks like a gear. Once you open Settings, scroll down and look for General or System—the exact name depends on your TV model and software version. Inside that section, find and select Reset. Your TV will ask you to confirm and may ask for a PIN (the default is usually 0000 or 1111, but check your manual if you set a custom PIN). Select Yes or Confirm, and the TV will restart and begin the reset process. This takes 10 to 15 minutes. Do not unplug the TV during this time.

Hard reset if your TV will not respond to the remote

If your TV is on but frozen, or the remote is not working, try a hard reset first before attempting a factory reset. Unplug the power cable from the back of the TV or the wall outlet. Wait 30 seconds—count them out loud or use a timer. Plug the TV back in and wait for it to boot up. This clears the TV's temporary memory and often fixes freezing, app crashes, and remote connection problems without erasing your settings.

If the hard reset does not work and your TV still will not respond to the remote, you may need to use the physical buttons on the TV itself. Most Samsung TVs have a power button and volume buttons on the back or bottom edge. Press and hold the power button for 10 to 15 seconds until the TV shuts down completely, then turn it back on. If you still cannot access the Settings menu, contact Samsung support, because a factory reset through the menu will not be possible without a working remote.

What to expect after the reset is complete

When the reset finishes, your TV will display a welcome screen asking you to choose your language and region. Select your language and follow the on-screen prompts. The TV will then ask you to connect to Wi-Fi. Select your network name from the list and enter your Wi-Fi password. After that, you will see the home screen with no apps installed except the ones Samsung includes by default.

You will need to sign in to any streaming services you use—Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, YouTube, and others. Open each app and log in with your account credentials. If you had a Samsung account linked to your TV before the reset, you can sign back in to restore some settings, but most custom adjustments (picture mode, brightness, sound settings) will be back to factory defaults. Write down any custom settings you want to keep before you reset, so you can adjust them again afterward.

Backing up your settings before you reset

If you have spent time adjusting picture quality, sound levels, or other settings, take a photo or write down the values before you reset. Open Settings, go to Picture, and note your brightness, contrast, color, and picture mode. Then go to Sound and note your volume level and any sound mode you prefer. If you have a Samsung account, you can also sign in to your account in Settings before the reset—some Samsung TVs will restore account-linked preferences after the reset, though this is not may provide.

For streaming apps, write down which services you use so you remember to reinstall them. The reset will not delete your streaming account passwords (those are stored with the service, not on the TV), so you will just need to log in again. If you have sideloaded apps or installed apps from outside the Samsung app store, those will be deleted and you will need to reinstall them manually.

Troubleshooting if the reset does not fix your problem

If your TV is still freezing, crashing, or behaving strangely after a factory reset, the problem is likely hardware-related rather than software-related. Check that your TV has the latest software update by going to Settings, then Support, then Software Update. If an update is available, install it and restart the TV. If the problem persists after a software update, the issue may be a failing component inside the TV.

If you are resetting the TV to remove personal data before selling it, make sure the reset is fully complete before you hand it over. Turn the TV on and verify that it shows the welcome screen and has no apps installed. If you are still under warranty, contact Samsung support through their website or the phone number on your TV's manual before attempting any troubleshooting beyond a hard reset and software update.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a factory reset delete my streaming apps like Netflix?

Yes, a factory reset deletes all apps you installed, including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and others. You will need to reinstall them from the Samsung app store after the reset. Your streaming account passwords are stored with each service, not on the TV, so you will just need to log in again.

What if I forgot my PIN and cannot access the reset menu?

The default PIN on most Samsung TVs is 0000 or 1111. If neither works, try 1234. If you set a custom PIN and cannot remember it, contact Samsung support with proof of purchase. They may be able to help you reset the PIN or perform a remote reset.

How long does a factory reset take?

A factory reset usually takes 10 to 15 minutes from the moment you select Confirm until the TV reboots and shows the welcome screen. Do not unplug the TV during this time. After the reset, you will need another 5 to 10 minutes to reconnect to Wi-Fi and sign back into your accounts.

Can I reset my Samsung TV without a remote?

You cannot access the Settings menu without a remote or a working TV display. However, you can perform a hard reset by unplugging the TV for 30 seconds, which clears temporary memory and often fixes freezing problems. If you need a full factory reset and your remote is broken, you will need to replace the remote or contact Samsung support.

Does a factory reset fix a cracked screen or broken buttons?

No, a factory reset only erases software and settings. It cannot repair physical damage like a cracked screen, broken power button, or unresponsive remote. If your TV has hardware damage, contact Samsung support or a repair technician.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.