How to Factory Reset a MacBook Air or MacBook Pro (2025 Guide)

How to Factory Reset a MacBook Air or MacBook Pro (2025 Guide)

If you’re preparing to sell, donate, or troubleshoot your MacBook Air or MacBook Pro, performing a factory reset is one of the most effective ways to start fresh. Unlike a simple restart, a factory reset erases all data and settings, returning your Mac to its original out-of-the-box state.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to completely factory reset your MacBook Air or MacBook Pro — safely and securely.

💡 Note: Before proceeding, make sure to back up any important files using Time Machine or iCloud.

🔌 Step 1: Shut Down Your MacBook

Before starting the reset process, shut down your MacBook completely.

  1. Click the Apple logo () in the top-left corner.
  2. Select Shut Down .
  3. Wait for the screen to turn off.


⚙️ Step 2: Enter Recovery Mode

To access the macOS recovery tools, you need to boot into Recovery Mode .

For Intel-based MacBooks:

  • Press the power button, then immediately hold Command + R until the Apple logo appears.

For Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3 chip MacBooks):

  • Press and release the power button, then immediately hold the power button again until you see “Options” appear on-screen.

🗑️ Step 3: Erase Your Mac’s Drive

Once in Recovery Mode:

  1. Select Disk Utility and click Continue .
  2. In the sidebar, choose your main drive (usually named “Macintosh HD”).
  3. Click Erase .
  4. Choose a format:
    • MacOS Extended (Journaled) – for older macOS versions
    • APFS – for macOS High Sierra and newer
  5. Confirm and wait for the process to finish.


🔄 Step 4: Reinstall macOS

After erasing your disk:

  1. Go back to the Recovery window.
  2. Select Reinstall macOS (or macOS Ventura/Sonoma, depending on your model).
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. When prompted, select your erased drive as the installation destination.

This step may take 30–60 minutes depending on your internet speed.

📤 Step 5: Set Up or Hand Over

Once macOS is reinstalled, you’ll be taken to the setup assistant:

  • If you’re keeping the MacBook, sign in with your Apple ID.
  • If you’re selling or giving it away, don’t sign in — just shut it down so the new owner can start fresh.

✅ Final Tips

  • Always back up before resetting.
  • Keep your MacBook plugged in during the process.
  • If you have an M-series Mac, Secure Enclave will automatically wipe encryption keys when you erase the drive — no need for extra steps.

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