Owners of smart health gadgets often face a situation when the screen of the device stops lighting up or the readings become unstable. The most common reason for such failures is not the breakdown of the electronics, but the banal discharge of the battery. The question of what kind of battery in the Xiaomi scales arises from users regularly, especially when the device begins to “capitalize” when weighing.
Xiaomi has produced several generations of its popular floor analyzers, and depending on the model, the requirements for the energy source can be radically different. Error when buying the wrong battery can lead to the fact that the device simply does not turn on or, worse, damage the contact group. In this article, we will discuss in detail the types of batteries used, the nuances of their installation and hidden features that are not written in the official instructions.
Timely replacement of consumables is key to measuring accuracy. Smart scales consume energy not only to display numbers, but also to work Bluetooth module that syncs data with the smartphone. Low charge often causes communication interruptions and loss of weighing history in the Mi Fit or Zepp Life app. Let's figure out what you need to know before going to the store.
Model range and types of power elements
The first thing you need to do is identify your device model. Xiaomi Mi Body Composition Scale has several basic versions, and you can not confuse them. Mi Smart Scale 1 (first generation) and Mi Body Composition Scale 2 (second generation) have a similar design, but the internal power consumption of them differs.
For the classic first version, which often has a white glossy platform, the standard is to use four separate batteries. These are classic AAA batteries, also known as pinkie batteries. They provide the required voltage of 1.5 volts each, giving the system a total of 6 volts. This is a reliable and time-tested format available in any supermarket.
So that's really different if you have a more modern version of the Mi Body Composition Scale 2, which is often matte coated and has more precise sensors, but it's designed differently, instead of four separate compartments, it's a single unit of four elements connected in series, and the form factor is also AAA, but it's critical that you have a special plastic holder.
It is worth noting that using the wrong type of cell, such as trying to insert Ni-MH batteries instead of alkaline batteries, can lead to incorrect operation. Alkaline batteries have a more stable voltage over their lifetime compared to salt counterparts, which are recommended by manufacturers to install to achieve maximum autonomy.
Replacement in Mi Body Composition Scale 2
The second version of the smart scale is the one that raises the most questions because of its design: there are no four independent cells, there's a special plastic container inside the case that already has four AAA elements built into it, and when you buy a new battery for this model, you actually buy a ready-made replacement module.
The replacement process in this model requires care. You need to flip the scales, open the compartment lid, and remove the old block. It is important not to make excessive efforts to avoid damaging the contact plates inside the scale body. The new block is inserted before the characteristic click, after which the device should be immediately checked.
⚠️ Never try to insert four separate batteries. AAA You can use the Mi Scale 2 compartment without a plastic holder, and you can't close your contacts, or you can damage the springs inside the device.
If you lose a plastic holder, there are universal counterparts from third-party manufacturers, but it is better to look for the original accessory. Sometimes users try to use holders from other devices, but the size may not match the fractions of a millimeter, which will lead to poor contact.
In the rare cases where a block is not available, some enthusiasts use the method of soldering contacts or creating a homemade case, but this is a lack of warranty and requires skills. For most users, the optimal solution is to find a ready-made replacement module 4xAAA for Mi Scale 2 in electronics stores or marketplaces.
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When installing a new battery pack, move it slightly from side to side to clear the possible oxide film from the contacts and improve the connection.
Replacement procedure in Mi Smart Scale 1
The first model is a little bit easier, but it's also a little bit nuanced: the battery compartment is on the bottom panel, and it's covered with a plastic cover, and it doesn't usually require tools to access it, you just have to move the latch or put your nail on the edge, and you'll see four cylindrical recesses inside.
The main rule of installation is to observe polarity. Each compartment has the "+" and "-" symbols on the bottom of each compartment. AAA batteries must be installed according to these labels. If you confuse polarity in just one compartment, the circuit will not close and the scales will not turn on. Moreover, it can lead to a short circuit.
It's recommended that you change all four cells at once, and even if three batteries show a good charge and one village, mixing old and new cells will cause the whole set to fail quickly, and the different internal resistance of old and new batteries will cause overheating and leakage of the electrolyte.
- 🔋 Use only high-quality alkaline batteries of well-known brands to ensure long-lasting performance.
- 🧼 Before installing new elements, wipe the contacts inside the compartment with a dry lilaless napkin or cotton swab.
- 🚫 Do not use damaged, swollen or oxidized batteries, even if they show residual charge.
Once new elements are installed, the scales can be automatically calibrated. Put them on a solid, flat surface and wait for zeros to appear. If the screen blinks or shows errors, check the correct setting of polarity again. Sometimes it takes several seconds to stabilize the voltage on the contacts.
Table of compatibility and characteristics
So for the sake of comparing and choosing the right battery, we've developed a composite table that will help you quickly navigate the characteristics and differences between the models, and pay attention to voltage and size, because these are key parameters.
| Model of weights | Type of element | Number (s) | Construction | Recommended type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Smart Scale 1 | AAA (LR03) | 4 | Separate cells | Alkaline |
| Mi Body Scale 2 | AAA (LR03) | 4 (block) | The soldered block | Alkaline Block |
| Mi Scale Essential | AAA (LR03) | 4 | Separate cells | Alkaline |
| Mi Body Fat Scale | AAA (LR03) | 4 | Separate cells | Alkaline |
As you can see from the table, the AAA format remains the main standard. But the key difference is the way the switching is done. In Scale 2, the elements inside the unit are often not just connected by an insertion into the holder, but can be soldered together in a factory, so that the contact is compact and reliable under vibration conditions when carried.
When buying, pay attention to the labeling. Any LR03 will work for a conventional scale, but for the second model, look for the inscription "For Mi Scale 2" or a visual similarity to your burned unit. Lithium batteries can also be used, they last longer at low temperatures, but their voltage can vary (1.5V vs. 1.2V in Ni-MH), which is important to consider.
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The main difference between the models is the design of the compartment: the first models use 4 separate batteries, and the second require a single replacement unit.
Frequent problems after replacement and their solution
You may have replaced the batteries, but Xiaomi's scales still don't work or behave strangely. The screen can show "Lo" (Low battery), which means low charge, even with new elements. This often indicates poor contact or oxidation of springs inside the device.
One common problem is using cheap salt batteries instead of alkaline ones. Salt cells have high internal resistance and can't give off the current needed to turn on a Bluetooth module. Libras can turn on, show weight, but don't connect to a phone. Always choose Alkaline labeling.
⚠️ Warning: If you find white plaque or corrosion on the contacts inside the scales, do not touch them with your bare hands. Use gloves and treat the contacts with alcohol or a special cleaner.
Another cause of failure is a software glitch. After a power change, the device sometimes needs to restart. For Xiaomi scales, this is done by removing the batteries for 1-2 minutes, which allows the capacitors to completely discharge and reset temporary errors in the memory of the controller.
☑️ Diagnosing nutritional problems
If after all the manipulations, the scales continue to show incorrect data or quickly set, the problem may be deeper, perhaps the board itself inside the case has oxidized, or the Bluetooth module that consumes excess current has failed, in which cases more serious repairs are required.
Tips for extending the life of batteries
To avoid wondering “what battery is in Xiaomi’s scales” too often, it’s worth sticking to simple rules of operation: Smart scales – the device is energy efficient, but improper use can land even the most capacious element in a couple of weeks.
First, try not to leave the scales in places with direct sunlight or near heating appliances. High temperatures accelerate chemical reactions inside the battery, leading to its self-discharge and possible leakage. The optimal temperature of storage and use is room temperature.
- 🏠 Keep the scales in a dry place, as the high humidity of the bathroom contributes to the oxidation of contacts.
- 📱 Turn off Bluetooth on scales (if there is such a feature in the app) when they are not in use for a long time to save charge.
- 🗑️ Remove fully discharged batteries immediately to avoid electrolyte leakage and damage to the device.
Also, you should consider that frequent reconnection to your phone or constant network search with a weak Bluetooth signal consumes charge faster. If you rarely use scales, it makes sense not to keep a phone with an app on next to them all the time.
Can I use 1.2V batteries?
Where to Find Original Power Blocks
Finding a replacement for the Mi Scale 2 can be a quest, as conventional electrical stores often don’t have them in stock, they’re not the mass market standard like normal finger batteries, but the accessories market for Xiaomi is huge.
First of all, check out the large online marketplaces, and if you want to see "Mi Scale 2 battery," "Xiaomi scale power unit," or "Mi Body Composition Scale 2 battery pack," you'll find dozens of options, and it's important to look at customer reviews and photos to see if the contacts are plastic and reliable.
Beware of too cheap offers. Cheap plastic holder can crack on the first installation, and poor-quality soldering inside the unit will lead to sparkling. the original accessory or quality counterpart is worth its money, ensuring the safety of your home and accuracy of measurements.
If you own the first model, there should be no problem. AAA batteries (LR03) are sold everywhere. The main thing is to buy them in packs of 4 or 8 pieces, so you always have a stock. Remember to check the shelf life on the package, because batteries also tend to self-discharge when stored for long periods.