Factory Reset Surface Pro in 3 Simple Ways

How to

Milan Stanojevic

Windows Toubleshooting Expert

How to

3 min. read

Updated on September 30, 2025

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If your Surface Pro is slow, stuck in boot loops, or not responding, a factory reset can restore it to default settings. This process removes apps and personal files, so make sure to back up your data before proceeding.

How can I factory reset Surface Pro?

How can I factory reset Surface Pro?

1. Reset Surface Pro from Windows Settings

Click Start and select Settings.
Go to System> Recovery.
Under Reset this PC, click the Reset PC button.
Choose Keep my files or Remove everything depending on your needs.
Follow the on-screen instructions and wait for Windows to reinstall.

This is the simplest method if your device can boot normally.

2. Reset Surface Pro using advanced startup

Hold Shift and click Restart from the Start menu.
When the recovery menu appears, select Troubleshoot.
Click Reset this PC.
Choose between keeping your files or removing everything.
Confirm and let Windows reset your device.

Use this method if Windows starts but does not run properly.

3. Reset with a USB Recovery Drive

On another PC, download the recovery image from the Surface recovery page.
Create a bootable USB drive using the downloaded files.
Insert the USB into your Surface Pro and hold Volume Down + Power to boot.
Select Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
Follow the prompts to reinstall Windows.

When Factory Reset Helps

If your Surface is stuck configuring Windows updates and will not progress.
When you experience a black screen of death on Surface Pro.
After repeated firmware update BSOD errors.
If the device does not turn on properly even after troubleshooting.

FAQs

Will a factory reset delete everything?

Yes, if you choose Remove everything, all files, apps, and settings will be erased.

Can I reset my Surface Pro without logging in?

Yes, by using the Advanced Startup or USB recovery drive methods.

How long does it take to reset a Surface Pro?

Usually 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on hardware and chosen reset option.

Factory resetting your Surface Pro is a reliable way to resolve stubborn issues and restore performance. Whether you use Settings, Advanced Startup, or a USB recovery drive, following the right steps ensures your device runs smoothly again.

Once the reset completes and Windows loads, learn how to use Surface Pen to write text to speed up note taking and everyday input.

More about the topics: PC Reset, surface pro

Milan Stanojevic

Windows Toubleshooting Expert

Milan has been enthusiastic about technology ever since his childhood days, and this led him to take interest in all PC-related technologies. He's a PC enthusiast and he spends most of his time learning about computers and technology. Before joining WindowsReport, he worked as a front-end web developer. Now, he's one of the Troubleshooting experts in our worldwide team, specializing in Windows errors & software issues.