Key Takeaways
- On most Echo Dots, you can perform a reset by pressing and holding the Action button for 20 seconds.
- The 1st gen Dot requires a pin or paperclip to hit the Reset button.
- Log into Amazon.com to deregister a Dot before giving it away.
Amazon’s Echo Dot speakers are one of the simplest and cheapest gateway devices to the smart home world. There are plenty of reasons you might need to put one back into setup mode, though — aside from technical troubles, you might be selling one or handing it off to friends or family. In fact, it’s absolutely essential to perform a reset before giving an Echo away, since you might otherwise also give away control over things like lights and thermostats.
There are two main methods for resetting an Echo Dot, which we’ll explain below. We’re also devoting a separate section to the first-generation Dot, which has its own version of those options.
Related
Best Amazon Echo Show: Which smart display is best for you?
Amazon sells a few different smart displays. Pocket-lint will help you find the right one for your needs.
Amazon/Pocket-lint
How to reset an Echo Dot (2nd, 3rd, 4th or 5th gen)
If you’re only trying to troubleshoot technical issues, you’ll want to stick to the first of our two methods, since you’ll otherwise need to reconfigure your Dot’s smart home connections. Attempt a factory reset only if a “soft” reset doesn’t work or if you’re planning to give your Dot away.
Related
Amazon Echo Dot 5th-gen vs Echo Dot 4th-gen: The differences you should know about
The new version of the Echo Dot brought some notable changes, but you should be aware of these specific features.
Preserving smart home connections
- Tap and hold the Action button for 20 seconds. On newer models, this looks like a circle.
- Wait for the light ring to turnoff, then on again.
- Your Echo should be in setup mode. This is indicated by an orange ring.
Related
Apple’s next big device? A tabletop robot iPad that controls your smart home
Apple is reportedly working on a new tabletop device that combines an iPad-like display with a robotic arm capable of tilting and spinning 360 degrees, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The device is designed to serve multiple purposes, including controlling smart home accessories, monitoring security, and handling video calls, all with voice commands via Siri or Apple Intelligence. Kevin Lynch, Apple’s vice president of technology, is leading the project, which could launch as early as 2026 or 2027 with a price tag around $1,000. What features would make this device a must-have for you?
Performing a factory reset
- Tap and hold the Volume Down and Mute/Microphone Off buttons simultaneously for 20 seconds.
- The light ring should turn off, then on again.
- Your Echo should be in setup mode, indicated by an orange ring.
- If you’re planning to give away your speaker, make sure to log into amazon.com/mycd, click Devices, select your device, then choose Deregister.
Related
How to automate your entire smart home with only a Raspberry Pi
If you’re in possession of a DIY attitude and some spare time, a single Raspberry Pi board could be running your entire smart home.
How to reset an Echo Dot (1st gen)
Preserving smart home connections
Andres Urena / Unsplash
- Use a paperclip (or something similar) to press the hidden Reset button.
- Wait for the light ring to turn off and back on.
- Your Dot should be in setup mode, signaled by an orange ring.
Related
The best smart displays to boost your smart home functionality
Smart displays are the epitome of working as well as they look. These are the best smart displays to centralize your smart home.
Performing a factory reset
Andres Urena / Unsplash
- Use a paperclip (or a similar tool) to press and hold the hidden Reset button for at least 8 seconds.
- Wait for the light ring to turn off and on.
- Your Dot should be in setup mode, signaled by an orange ring.
- If you’re going to give your Dot away, be sure to log into amazon.com/mycd, click Devices, select your device, then choose Deregister.
Related
Smart home platforms, ranked worst to best
How does your favorite smart home ecosystem stack up?
FAQ
Q: Why do I need to deregister my Echo Dot after a factory reset?
Even if the speaker itself has a clean slate, it’ll still be linked to your Amazon account, and that could cause problems for both you and the person you’re giving the Dot to.
Q: What’s the best Amazon Echo speaker?
Technically speaking, the Echo Studio is Amazon’s most powerful model, delivering heavy bass and Dolby Atmos. But the best speaker for your purposes will really depend on circumstances — a Dot is often preferable in places like a nursery or bathroom. If you need to see doorbell and security camera footage, you’ll want an Echo Show.
