Echo Dot 3 Factory Reset Instructions

Top view of the Echo Dot 3rd Generation speaker as it boots.

Here, we give Echo Dot 3 factory reset directions for this Alexa smart speaker. Factory resetting returns it back to default, fresh-from-the-factory settings.

So why would anyone do this? You might want to sell the speaker on eBay or give it to another for Christmas. Factory resetting also allows you to link the Echo Dot 3 to a different Amazon account. Or set it up on a different wireless network. In all these cases, factory resetting works best to clear no longer valid account data from the speaker.

To detach the Echo Dot 3 from its current Amazon account, run the routine below.

Now if you’re just trying to get rid of unusual speaker behavior, you may not need a complete factory reset. So, before doing that, try powering off the speaker for fifteen seconds. Turn it off by unplugging its power cord either from the AC outlet, or from the unit itself. Then, wait ten to fifteen seconds. Then plug it back in. Rebooting often restores normal operation. But if not, read on for the factory reset procedure to follow.

Once reset, you’ll no longer have control of the speaker from the account where you controlled it from before. So to gain access to it again through the previous account, run through the setup procedure once more.

Echo Dot 3 Factory Reset Instructions, Step by Step

1. Connect the Power Cord

First, connect the Echo Dot 3 to its 12-volt external power adapter, as shown next.

Echo Dot 3 speaker AC power adapter, plugged into speaker back.

2. Next, Plug the Adapter End into a Working AC Outlet

See this in the next picture.

The speaker powering up, showing its AC adapter plugged into standard wall outlet.

Then, wait for the unit to finish booting. That’s done when either the light ring goes dark, or it starts flashing orange, red, or purple.

3. Next, Press and Hold the Action Button for Five Seconds

Hold in the Action button until the light ring turns orange, and the Dot 3 says that it is entering Setup mode. On this speaker, the Action button also works as the Factory Reset button. Find it pointed at by the green arrow in the next picture.

The Action button.

4. Finally, What Happens After Factory Reset?

Your speaker is now back at its factory state, and has entered Setup mode, as shown next.

The Alexa Echo Dot 3rd Generation speaker, shown in Setup mode, light ring orange and spinning.

Pack it Up or Set it Up Again

You may now give your Echo Dot 3 to another without worry that they’ll have access to the account information and settings on your Amazon account. Or, you can set it up again on your existing account. If selling though, we suggest that you pack the speaker in its original box if you still have it. This makes for the safest transport through mail or other delivery service.

Echo Dot 3rd Gen speaker box, front view. Factory reset Echo Dot 3.