--- title: "How to Factory Reset an Action Camera" canonical: "https://gadgetguides.org/how-to-factory-reset-an-action-camera/" author: "Arian" published: "2026-09-04T18:30:59+00:00" modified: "2026-09-04T18:30:59+00:00" language: "en-US" site: "Gadget Guides" description: "Your action camera froze midshoot. The touchscreen went dark. Or maybe you're about to hand it off to a new owner. Whatever brought you here, knowing how…" categories: "Cameras & Drones" attribution: "Gadget Guides (https://gadgetguides.org/)" --- # How to Factory Reset an Action Camera Your action camera froze mid-shoot. The touchscreen went dark. Or maybe you're about to hand it off to a new owner. Whatever brought you here, knowing how to factory reset an action camera is a skill that saves time, money, and frustration. A factory reset restores the camera to its original out-of-box state. It clears every setting, removes paired devices, and wipes stored Wi-Fi credentials. Based on aggregate user reports, roughly one in four common action camera issues responds to a simple reset before any hardware repair is needed. Let's walk through exactly when to reset and how to do it safely. ## Quick Answer To factory reset an action camera, open the Settings menu. Find the System or Reset option. Select Factory Reset and confirm. If the screen is frozen, hold the Power and Mode buttons together for 8 to 12 seconds. Remove the SD card first to protect your footage. ![how to factory reset an action camera](https://gadgetguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/how-to-factory-reset-an-action-camera-mtnahyss.webp) Image source: Bing (Web (fair-use with source credit)) ## When You Actually Need a Factory Reset A factory reset is a fix, not a first step. It's the right tool for specific problems. ### Your camera is stuck on the logo screen If the boot animation plays for more than 30 seconds, something is corrupt. A factory reset clears the internal memory and forces the system to rebuild. This works for most boot-loop scenarios. If the camera still won't boot after a reset, the issue might be hardware related. ### The touchscreen has gone haywire Ghost touches, delayed responses, or menus that open on their own. These are signs of software corruption. A reset often clears this up in under a minute. If the touchscreen is physically cracked or damaged, a reset won't fix it. ### You're selling or gifting the camera Your Wi-Fi passwords, app pairings, and custom profiles are stored on the device. A factory reset wipes all of that. It returns the camera to the exact condition it had when you first opened the box. This is also a good time to check [proper storage](https://gadgetguides.org/how-to-store-a-mirrorless-camera/) before you pack it up for the new owner. ### App pairing keeps failing Sometimes the camera and app just stop talking to each other. If you've tried reconnecting through the app settings several times, a reset clears the stored credentials. This often fixes the problem. If the app still won't connect after a reset, try deleting and reinstalling the app. ### Random glitches and freezes If the camera crashes during recording or throws up error messages for no reason, the software may be bloated or corrupted. A reset gives it a clean slate. After that, you can set it up fresh. If the glitches return quickly, you might have a deeper firmware issue. ### When a reset won't help Hardware issues like a cracked lens, water damage, a dead battery, or broken buttons won't respond to a reset. Those need physical repair. If you're unsure which problem you have, try [a systematic approach to camera issues](https://gadgetguides.org/how-to-troubleshoot-mirrorless-camera/) first. It might save you a reset. Factory resets resolve most software-related problems. For the rest, you'll need to look at hardware fixes or professional repair. Knowing the difference between a software glitch and a hardware failure saves you time and frustration. ## Before You Reset: Backup Your Footage First A factory reset wipes the internal storage. If you have footage on the camera, it will be gone. Forever. That's why backing up is non-negotiable. ### Remove the SD card first The easiest way to protect your footage is to take the memory card out before you start the reset. Store it somewhere safe. Your footage lives on the card, not the camera's internal memory. If the camera has built-in storage, you'll need to transfer files to a computer or external drive. ### Transfer files to a computer Connect the camera to your computer with the USB cable. Or use a card reader to pull files directly from the SD card. Copy everything to a folder on your desktop. Double-check that the files open properly before you proceed. If you're unsure about your workflow, [saving your media files](https://gadgetguides.org/how-to-backup-mirrorless-camera-photos/) to a dedicated folder structure keeps things organized. ### Use cloud storage for extra safety If you have a Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud account, upload your footage there too. This gives you a second copy. Cloud storage is especially useful if you're resetting a camera you plan to sell. It also protects against a failed hard drive. ### Check for hidden files Some action cameras store configuration files or settings backups on the SD card. These are usually hidden by default. Enable hidden files in your operating system's file manager and check for anything that looks like a system file. If you find one, copy it to your computer as well. ### The one exception If your camera won't power on at all and you can't access the card, you might need to remove the SD card and use a card reader directly. The footage is usually still on the card. You just can't get to it through the camera itself. Most card readers work with any computer and cost under $15. The most common mistake people make is skipping the backup step. They assume the reset won't affect the memory card. It doesn't. But if you accidentally select the option to format the card during the reset, everything goes. Take the card out. It takes ten seconds and saves hours of regret. ## Reset Path 1: Using the Touchscreen Menu This is the easiest method. It works when your camera's screen is responsive and you can navigate the menus. ![action camera touchscreen menu](https://gadgetguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/action-camera-touchscreen-menu-mtnahztz.webp) Image source: Web (Bing) / robots.net (Web image (fair-use with source credit)) ### Step 1: Charge the battery Make sure your camera has at least 50 percent charge. If the battery dies during the reset, the process can corrupt the firmware. That's a headache you don't want. Plug it in for 30 minutes if you're unsure. ### Step 2: Remove the SD card Pop the memory card out. This protects your footage. It also prevents the camera from trying to format the card during the reset. Keep it in a safe place while you work. ### Step 3: Open the Settings menu Swipe down or tap the gear icon to open Settings. The exact location varies by brand, but it's usually on the main screen or a swipe away. If you're used to [the touchscreen interface](https://gadgetguides.org/how-to-use-mirrorless-camera-touchscreen/) on other cameras, this will feel familiar. ### Step 4: Find the Reset option Look for System, Reset, or Factory Reset. On most cameras, it's under a submenu labeled System or Advanced. Take your time scrolling through the options. The reset setting is usually close to the bottom of the list. ### Step 5: Confirm the reset The camera will ask if you're sure. Tap Yes or Confirm. Some cameras require you to hold the confirmation button for a few seconds. This prevents accidental resets when the camera is in your pocket or bag. ### Step 6: Wait for the reboot The camera will restart. This usually takes 30 to 60 seconds. You'll see the logo screen, and then the camera will boot into its initial setup wizard. That's how you know it worked. ### Step 7: Reinsert the SD card Once the camera is back on and running, put the memory card back in. You'll need to format it if the camera prompts you to. That's normal. Formatting inside the camera ensures the file system is compatible. After the reset, you'll need to set the date, time, and language. You'll also need to re-pair the camera with your mobile app. All your custom settings are gone. That's the whole point of a factory reset. If your touchscreen is unresponsive and you can't access the menu, skip to the next section. The button combo method is your backup plan. ## Reset Path 2: Button Combos for a Frozen Camera When the touchscreen is dead or the camera is stuck on a logo, you can't navigate the menu. You need a physical button combination. This method works on almost every action camera. ![action camera button combo](https://gadgetguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/action-camera-button-combo-mtnai0tx.webp) Image source: Web (Bing) / storytellertech.com (Web image (fair-use with source credit)) ### The basic approach Most action cameras use a combination of the Power button and the Mode or Shutter button. You press and hold both for a specific amount of time. The camera vibrates, beeps, or the screen flashes. Then it reboots to its factory state. ### The standard hold time Eight to twelve seconds is the sweet spot for most brands. Hold the buttons down for at least 8 seconds. If nothing happens, try 12 seconds. Some cameras need a full 15 seconds before they respond. Don't let go early. ### What to expect When the combo works, the screen goes black. The camera may vibrate or beep. Then the logo appears and the camera boots up. If you see the initial setup wizard, the reset was successful. If you see your normal home screen, the button combo didn't register. ### If the camera is completely unresponsive Remove the battery. Wait 30 seconds. Put the battery back in. Then try the button combo again. This drains any residual charge from the internal circuits. It often wakes up a camera that seems dead. If you've tried [general troubleshooting steps](https://gadgetguides.org/how-to-troubleshoot-mirrorless-camera/) and nothing works, this is your next move. ### If the camera has a non-removable battery Some cameras have internal batteries you can't take out. In that case, try the button combo first. If it doesn't work, plug the camera into a charger and try again. Some cameras won't respond to button combos when the battery is critically low. A full charge often fixes this. The button combo method is your last resort before sending the camera in for repair. It works on most models. If it doesn't work, your camera may have a more serious hardware issue. Try the brand-specific combos in the next section before giving up. ## Brand-Specific Button Combos for Common Models The basic button combo works for most cameras. But each brand has its own specific sequence. Here's what you need for the most common models as of 2026. | Brand | Model | Button Combo | Hold Time | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | GoPro | HERO 8 through 13 | Power + Mode/Mute | 8 seconds | | GoPro | HERO 7 and older | Power + Shutter | 10 seconds | | DJI | Osmo Action 3, 4, 5 Pro | Power + Quick Switch | 10 seconds | | DJI | Osmo Action 1, 2 | Power + Shutter | 10 seconds | | Insta360 | X3, X4, ONE RS, Ace Pro | Power + Mode | 8 seconds | | Akaso | Brave series, EK7000 | Power + Up button | 10 seconds | | SJCAM | C300, SJ8, SJ9 | Power + Shutter | 8 seconds | ### How to find the combo for your specific model If your camera isn't on this list, check the manual. Look for the section on troubleshooting or resetting. The manual usually includes a flowchart or a set of instructions. If you don't have the manual, visit the manufacturer's support site. [GoPro's official support page](https://gopro.com/support) has a reset guide for every model they've released. ### What if the table doesn't include your model Try the universal method. Press and hold the Power button and the top button for 10 seconds. If that doesn't work, try the Power button and the bottom button. Some cameras use the Wi-Fi button instead of the Shutter button. Experiment with different combinations. ### A note on recessed reset buttons Some older action cameras have a small pinhole reset button. You need a paperclip or SIM eject tool to press it. These are rare on modern cameras. If you see a small hole near the battery compartment, that's likely what it is. After the reset, you'll need to set up the camera from scratch. That means date, time, language, and re-pairing the camera with your phone. If you need help with that, look up [how to connect a mirrorless camera to a smartphone](https://gadgetguides.org/how-to-connect-mirrorless-camera-to-smartphone/). The process is similar for action cameras. ## What to Do If the Reset Doesn't Work Sometimes a factory reset doesn't solve the problem. Here's what to try next. ### Try a firmware reinstall A corrupt firmware file can survive a standard reset. Download the latest firmware from the manufacturer's website. Copy it to a formatted SD card. Insert the card and power on the camera. Most models will detect the file and prompt you to update. This overwrites the entire operating system. It's a deeper clean than a factory reset. ### Check for physical damage If the reset didn't fix the issue, the problem might be physical. Look for cracks in the housing, moisture under the lens, or corrosion on the battery contacts. Water damage is a common culprit. If you see any signs of physical damage, the camera needs professional repair. ### Try a different memory card A failing SD card can cause boot loops, freezes, and error messages. Try a different card that you know works. Format it inside the camera before use. If the camera works fine with the new card, the old card was the problem. Replace it. ### Contact the manufacturer If none of these steps work, reach out to the manufacturer's support team. Most brands offer a warranty for at least one year. They can walk you through advanced troubleshooting or arrange a repair. Check the warranty status before you do anything else. ## Mistakes That Can Cost You A few common mistakes turn a simple reset into a disaster. Avoid these. ### Skipping the backup This is the number one mistake. People assume the reset won't affect their footage. They're wrong. Always take the SD card out first. Always copy your files to a computer. There is no undo button for a factory reset. ### Interrupting the reset Once the reset starts, let it finish. Don't remove the battery. Don't turn off the power. Don't press any buttons. Interrupting the process can corrupt the firmware. A corrupted firmware means a bricked camera. That's a much bigger problem. ### Using the wrong button combo Each brand has its own sequence. Using the wrong combo might do nothing. Or it might trigger a different function. Some cameras use the same buttons for a soft reboot and a hard reset. Check the manual before you press anything. ### Forgetting to re-pair the camera After a reset, the camera forgets all app connections. You need to pair it again. People often think the app is broken when the real issue is that the camera is starting fresh. Open the app, go to settings, and add the camera as a new device. ### Not formatting the card afterward After a reset, the camera may expect a freshly formatted card. If you get error messages about the card, format it inside the camera. This ensures the file system matches what the camera expects. Don't format the card on your computer. Always format it in the camera. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Does a factory reset delete my footage? A factory reset clears the internal storage. It does not format the SD card unless you select that option. To be safe, remove the SD card before you start the reset. Your footage stays on the card. ### How long does a factory reset take? The process takes about 30 to 90 seconds from start to finish. The camera reboots once or twice. You'll see the initial setup screen when it's done. Total time is under two minutes. ### Can I factory reset without a touchscreen? Yes. Use the physical button combo method. Hold the Power button and the Mode or Shutter button for 8 to 12 seconds. The camera will reset without needing the touchscreen at all. ### Will a factory reset fix a bricked camera? It depends on the cause. If the firmware is simply corrupt, a reset often works. If the hardware is damaged, a reset won't help. Try the reset first. If nothing happens, then look at firmware reinstallation or professional repair. ### Do I need to remove the battery before resetting? No. You only need to remove the battery if the camera is completely unresponsive and won't power on. For a standard reset, leave the battery in. Make sure it has at least 50 percent charge. ### How do I reset a GoPro without the screen? Press and hold the Power button and the Mode button at the same time. Hold them for 8 seconds. The GoPro will beep and power off. Turn it back on. It will boot to the initial setup screen.