How to factory reset a MacBook

A factory reset on a MacBook wipes the device of all personal data and reinstalls a clean, unhindered version of macOS.

Fortunately, performing a factory reset on a MacBook is painless. Apple has generally kept the process fairly streamlined. There are, however, some differences in the procedure depending on whether you have a MacBook with Apple silicon or if it is a MacBook with the Apple T2 Security chip. Whether you’re using macOS Monterey or later will also impact the step, albeit slightly.

First, check if your MacBook has the “Erase All Content and Settings” feature. If so, follow these steps depending on the operating system.

For macOS Monterey:

Step 1: Select the Apple menu in the upper left corner and click “System Preferences.”

2nd step: Choose “Erase all content and settings”.

For macOS Ventura or later:

Step 1: Select the Apple menu in the upper left corner and click “System Settings”.

2nd step: Go to “General” in the sidebar and click “Transfer or Reset”.

Step 3: Choose “Erase all content and settings”.

Once “Clear all content and settings” is selected, you will need to log in with your administrator credentials, including your password. Apple also provides a notification when everything is cleared, including Apple ID, Touch ID, Apple Wallet, and Find My settings.

This is also an opportunity to run a Time Machine backup if you wish. By selecting “Open Time Machine,” you can create a backup of your files and information. However, you will need to have an external storage device.

Once you confirm and select “Erase all content and settings” again, the factory reset is initiated. The MacBook is then activated and restarted, with a new setup process to begin.

Use Disk Utility

If your MacBook does not offer the “Erase All Content and Settings” feature, you can use the “Disk Utility” tool. Follow these steps to erase all content:

Step 1: With your MacBook turned off, turn it on and immediately hold down the Command (⌘) and R keys. Do this until the Apple logo appears.

2nd step: Enter the administrator password and select “Disk Utility”

Step 3. Go to “Macintosh HD” in the sidebar and click “Clear.”

Step 4: Type “Macintosh HD” in the “Name” field and select APFS or Mac OS Extended (journaled) format.

Step 5. Select “Erase Volume Group” or “Erase” depending on what appears. If prompted, enter your Apple ID to initiate the erase.

With this, your MacBook is now wiped and ready for a new owner. You can now donate, sell, or gift your MacBook to someone without worrying about persistent data accessibility.