Hard resetting your China smart watch can fix glitches, improve performance, or prepare it for resale. This guide walks you through safe, effective methods for various models, including hidden button combos and app-based resets, with expert tips to avoid data loss.
Key Takeaways
- Know your model: Different China smart watches (e.g., Lemfo, Kospet, GT08) require unique reset methods—check the brand and model first.
- Back up data first: A hard reset erases all personal data, including contacts, messages, and health stats—sync with your phone app if possible.
- Use the right button combo: Most devices use a combination of the power and side buttons held for 10–15 seconds to trigger a reset.
- Charge before resetting: Ensure your watch has at least 50% battery to avoid interruptions during the reset process.
- Try software resets first: Use the companion app (like Da Fit or Wearfit) to reset via Bluetooth before attempting physical button methods.
- Factory reset ≠ restart: A hard reset restores factory settings, while a simple restart only refreshes the system temporarily.
- Contact support if stuck: If the watch doesn’t respond, reach out to the manufacturer or seller—some models have hidden recovery modes.
How to Hard Reset China Smart Watch: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
If your China smart watch is acting up—freezing, not syncing, or running slowly—you might need to perform a hard reset. Don’t worry, it’s easier than it sounds. A hard reset, also known as a factory reset, restores your device to its original settings, wiping out all personal data and software glitches. This guide will walk you through the process for a wide range of popular China-made smart watches, including Lemfo, Kospet, GT08, DT78, and others.
Whether you’re preparing to sell your watch, troubleshooting a stubborn bug, or just want a fresh start, this guide has you covered. We’ll explain multiple reset methods—button combinations, app-based resets, and recovery mode—so you can choose the one that works best for your device. Plus, we’ll share expert tips to avoid common pitfalls and keep your data safe.
Why You Might Need to Hard Reset Your China Smart Watch
Smart watches from China are affordable, feature-rich, and widely used—but like any tech device, they can run into problems. Over time, apps may crash, Bluetooth connections fail, or the interface becomes sluggish. A hard reset is often the fastest fix.
Visual guide about How to Hard Reset China Smart Watch
Image source: hardreset.info
Here are the most common reasons to perform a hard reset:
- Frozen or unresponsive screen: If your watch won’t respond to touch or button presses, a reset can kickstart it back to life.
- Syncing issues with your phone: When the watch stops connecting to your smartphone via Bluetooth, resetting both devices often solves the problem.
- Preparing for resale or gifting: A factory reset ensures your personal data—like messages, call logs, and health data—is completely erased.
- Software bugs or app crashes: If apps keep closing or the watch reboots randomly, a reset can clear corrupted files.
- Forgotten password or lock screen: Some models allow you to bypass a forgotten PIN or pattern through a hard reset.
Keep in mind: a hard reset is different from a simple restart. Restarting only refreshes the system temporarily, while a hard reset wipes everything and returns the watch to its factory state. So, use it wisely—and always back up your data first.
Before You Begin: Important Preparations
Before diving into the reset process, take a few minutes to prepare. This will help avoid frustration and data loss.
1. Charge Your Watch
Make sure your smart watch has at least 50% battery. A low battery during a reset can cause the process to fail or corrupt the system. Plug it into the charger and wait until it’s sufficiently powered.
2. Back Up Your Data
A hard reset erases all data stored on the watch. If your watch syncs with a companion app—like Da Fit, Wearfit, or iWown—open the app and ensure all your health stats, messages, and settings are backed up to your phone or cloud.
For example, if you use the Da Fit app:
- Open the app and connect to your watch.
- Go to “Device” > “Sync Data” to transfer recent activity.
- Check that your step count, heart rate logs, and sleep data are saved.
If your watch doesn’t sync with an app, take screenshots of important settings or write down custom watch faces and notification preferences.
3. Remove the Watch from Your Phone
Unlink the watch from your smartphone to prevent connection conflicts during the reset. On your phone:
- Go to Bluetooth settings.
- Find your watch in the paired devices list.
- Tap the “i” icon or gear symbol and select “Forget This Device” or “Unpair.”
This step ensures a clean slate when you reconnect after the reset.
4. Know Your Watch Model
Different China smart watches use different reset methods. Check the back of the watch or the original packaging for the brand and model number (e.g., Lemfo LEM T, Kospet Rock, GT08 Pro). This will help you choose the correct reset procedure.
Method 1: Hard Reset Using Physical Buttons (Most Common)
The most reliable way to hard reset a China smart watch is by using a combination of physical buttons. This method works on most models, even if the screen is frozen.
Step 1: Locate the Buttons
Most China smart watches have two buttons: a power button (usually on the right side) and a function or back button (often on the left). Some models have only one button or a touch-sensitive side panel.
Example: The Lemfo LEM T has a power button on the right and a back button on the left. The GT08 series typically has a single power button.
Step 2: Press and Hold the Correct Combo
The exact button combination varies by model, but here are the most common patterns:
- Two-button models (e.g., Lemfo, Kospet): Press and hold both the power button and the function button simultaneously for 10–15 seconds.
- Single-button models (e.g., GT08, DT78): Press and hold the power button for 15–20 seconds until the screen turns off and restarts.
- Touch-button models: Some watches use touch-sensitive sides. In this case, press and hold the side panel near the power area for 15 seconds.
As you hold the buttons, the screen may go black, flash the brand logo, or display a reset message. Keep holding until the device restarts completely.
Step 3: Wait for the Reset to Complete
After releasing the buttons, the watch will reboot. This may take 1–2 minutes. You’ll see the startup animation, and eventually, the initial setup screen will appear—just like when you first bought it.
At this point, the hard reset is complete. The watch is now restored to factory settings.
Pro Tip: What If Nothing Happens?
If the watch doesn’t respond, try these fixes:
- Ensure you’re pressing the correct buttons. Some watches have hidden reset zones.
- Hold the buttons longer—up to 20 seconds.
- Try charging the watch for 10 minutes first, then attempt the reset again.
Method 2: Hard Reset via Companion App
Many China smart watches come with a companion app that allows you to reset the device remotely. This method is safer and doesn’t require physical button presses.
Step 1: Open the Companion App
Download and install the correct app for your watch. Common apps include:
- Da Fit (for Lemfo, Kospet, and many generic models)
- Wearfit (popular with GT08 and DT series)
- iWown (used by some older models)
- Zetime (for Zetime-branded watches)
Make sure your phone’s Bluetooth is on and the watch is connected.
Step 2: Navigate to Device Settings
Once connected:
- Tap on your watch’s name or icon in the app.
- Look for a menu labeled “Device,” “Settings,” or “More.”
- Find an option like “Factory Reset,” “Restore,” or “Reset Device.”
For example, in the Da Fit app:
- Go to “Device” > “Advanced Settings” > “Factory Reset.”
- Confirm the action when prompted.
Step 3: Confirm and Wait
The app will send a reset command to the watch. The screen may flash or display a progress bar. Wait until the watch restarts and shows the setup screen.
This method is ideal if your watch is still responsive and connected to your phone. It’s also less risky than button combinations, which can sometimes trigger unintended actions.
Pro Tip: App Not Working?
If the app won’t connect or the reset option is missing:
- Update the app to the latest version.
- Restart both your phone and watch.
- Try reinstalling the app.
Method 3: Using Recovery Mode (Advanced)
Some China smart watches have a hidden recovery mode that allows for a deeper reset. This is useful if the standard methods fail or the watch is stuck in a boot loop.
Step 1: Enter Recovery Mode
The key combination varies, but common patterns include:
- Power + Volume Up (if the watch has volume buttons)
- Power + Function button + Touch side (for touch-sensitive models)
- Hold power for 30 seconds, then quickly press function button three times
For example, on a Kospet Rock:
- Turn off the watch completely.
- Press and hold Power + Volume Up for 10 seconds.
- Release when the recovery menu appears.
Step 2: Navigate the Recovery Menu
Use the volume or function buttons to scroll through options. Look for:
- “Wipe Data / Factory Reset”
- “Restore to Default”
- “Clear All Data”
Select the option and confirm. The watch will begin the reset process automatically.
Step 3: Reboot the System
After the reset, choose “Reboot System Now” from the menu. The watch will restart and return to factory settings.
Note: Recovery mode is not available on all models. If you can’t access it, stick to the button or app methods.
Troubleshooting Common Reset Problems
Even with the right steps, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix the most common issues.
Problem: Watch Doesn’t Turn On After Reset
If your watch stays black after a reset:
- Charge it for at least 30 minutes. The battery may have drained completely.
- Try the button combo again—sometimes it takes two attempts.
- Check for physical damage or water exposure.
Problem: Reset Doesn’t Fix the Issue
If the watch still freezes or crashes:
- The problem might be hardware-related (e.g., faulty sensor or memory).
- Contact the seller or manufacturer for warranty support.
- Consider flashing new firmware (advanced users only).
Problem: Can’t Reconnect to Phone
After a reset, the watch may not pair with your phone:
- Restart both devices.
- Forget the watch in your phone’s Bluetooth settings and re-pair.
- Ensure the companion app is updated.
Problem: Forgotten Lock Screen After Reset
Some watches retain lock settings even after a reset. If you’re locked out:
- Try the default PIN (often 0000 or 1234).
- Use the app to unlock remotely (if supported).
- Contact customer support with your device ID.
After the Reset: Setting Up Your Watch
Once your China smart watch has been reset, it’s time to set it up again—just like new.
Step 1: Choose Language and Region
The first screen will ask for your language and region. Select your preferences and tap “Next.”
Step 2: Connect to Bluetooth
Turn on your phone’s Bluetooth and follow the on-screen prompts to pair the watch. You may need to confirm a code on both devices.
Step 3: Install the Companion App
Download the correct app (e.g., Da Fit) and log in or create an account. Sync your watch to restore settings and data.
Step 4: Customize Settings
Reconfigure your preferences:
- Set up notifications (calls, messages, apps)
- Choose a watch face
- Enable health tracking (heart rate, sleep, steps)
- Adjust screen brightness and timeout
Take your time—this is your chance to optimize the watch for your lifestyle.
Final Tips for Maintaining Your China Smart Watch
To avoid future resets and keep your watch running smoothly:
- Update firmware regularly: Check the app for software updates every few months.
- Avoid overloading storage: Don’t install too many apps or store large files.
- Clean the watch gently: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the screen and sensors.
- Don’t expose to extreme temperatures: Heat and cold can damage the battery and circuitry.
- Restart weekly: A simple restart can prevent glitches before they start.
Conclusion
Hard resetting your China smart watch is a simple but powerful way to fix performance issues, clear data, or start fresh. Whether you use physical buttons, a companion app, or recovery mode, the process is straightforward once you know the right steps.
Remember to back up your data, charge your device, and identify your model before starting. And if you run into trouble, don’t hesitate to reach out to the manufacturer or seller for support.
With this guide, you’re equipped to handle any reset situation with confidence. Your smart watch will be back to peak performance in no time—ready to track your steps, monitor your health, and keep you connected.