How to change the font on Xiaomi Redmi: from standard settings to custom solutions

Changing the font on Xiaomi Redmi smartphones is one of the most popular customizations among MIUI users. Even the basic firmware offers several built-in options, but real enthusiasts prefer to install third-party fonts for a unique kind of interface. However, not everyone knows that changing the font incorrectly can lead to system failures or even β€œbricking” the device.

In this article, we will look at 5 proven ways to change the font to Redmi, from secure system tools to advanced methods using ADB and custom firmware. We will focus on models on MIUI 12-14, because the algorithms for changing fonts in these versions have key differences, and you will learn how to avoid typical errors and what to do if the font appears sloppy or disappears after the change.

Method 1: Standard fonts in MIUI settings

The easiest and safest method is to use the built-in MIUI options. It is suitable for all Redmi models (from Redmi Note 8 to Redmi 12) and does not require superuser rights. Depending on the firmware version, the path to settings may vary slightly, but the general logic remains.

To change the font through the standard menu:

  1. Open the Settings β†’ Screen.
  2. Select the Font item (in some versions - Font style).
  3. Scroll through the list of options available. Usually here are the options: πŸ“± Mi Sans (standard for the MIUI) 🎨 Roboto (classic Android) πŸ–‹οΈ SF Pro (similar to iOS fonts) πŸ“œ Noto Sans (Support for Multiple Languages)

Slip on your favorite option and confirm the choice.

Changes are applied immediately, no reboot is required, but note that MIUI 14 has a shortened list of embedded fonts compared to MIUI 12. If you don't have the right option, you'll have to use third-party methods.

πŸ“Š Which typeface do you like better?
Mi Sans (standard)
Roboto (Android)
SF Pro (iOS-like)
Other

Method 2: Install fonts through themes (Mi Theme Store)

The Mi Theme Store offers not only wallpaper and icons, but also font packages, a little more complicated than the standard one, but you can choose from hundreds of options, and the main advantage is that you don't need to root the device or use ADB.

Installation instructions:

  1. Open the Themes app (icon with brush).
  2. Go to the Font section (may be called Font in English localization).
  3. Select the font you like and click Apply.
  4. Confirm the download (usually the font weight is 1-5 MB).

Important: Some fonts from the Mi Theme Store may not support all languages, such as Cyrillic often displays squabbles or even replaces them with squares. Check other users' reviews before installing them!

πŸ’‘

If the font is lost after applying the theme, try restarting the device. Sometimes MIUI doesn't apply the changes right away.

Method 3: Manually add fonts through file manager

For advanced users who want to install custom fonts (like those downloaded from DaFont or Fontsquirrel), there is a method by replacing system files. It works on most Redmi models, but requires caution - wrong actions can lead to bootloop.

Step-by-step:

  1. Download the font in.ttf format (e.g. Montserrat or Open Sans).
  2. Connect your smartphone to your PC and copy the file to /sdcard/MIUI/theme/ (create it if not).
  3. Rename the font file to miui_latin.ttf (for Latin, or miui_cyr.ttf (cyrillic).
  4. Use a root file manager (such as Root Explorer) and replace the original file in /system/fonts/.
  5. Change the permission to the new file to 644 (rw-r----).
  6. Reset the device.

Make a backup system through TWRP|Download the original font for rollback|Check the file format (.ttf)|Use a root guide|Make sure you support Cyrillic-->

If the screen turns black after the font is replaced or the device does not boot, you must return the original file via the font. TWRP or ADB. To do this, save a copy of the standard font in advance (miui_latin.ttf) computer-based.

Method 4: Using ADB to change font (without root)

If you don't have superuser rights but want to install custom font, you can use ADB (Android Debug Bridge), which works on Redmi with MIUI 12+ and doesn't require unlocking the bootloader, but you'll need a computer.

Algorithm of action:

  1. Turn on USB Debugging in Settings β†’ About Phone β†’ MIUI version (tap 7 times on version, then go back to Additional settings β†’ For developers).
  2. Connect your smartphone to your PC and confirm the debugging permission.
  3. Download ADB Tools and unpack it into a separate folder.
  4. Place the font file (.ttf) in the same folder and rename it custom.ttf.
  5. Open the command line in the folder with ADB and execute commands: adb push custom.ttf /sdcard/ adb shell su -c "mount -o rw,remount /system" su -c "cp /sdcard/custom.ttf /system/fonts/miui_latin.ttf" su -c "chmod 644 /system/fonts/miui_latin.ttf" reboot
What if the ADB can’t see the device?
Make sure you have Xiaomi drivers installed (you can download it on the official website). USB-In some cases, switching the connection mode from Charging to File Transfer helps".

Method 5: Custom firmware (for experienced users)

If you use custom firmware like LineageOS, Pixel Experience or crDroid, the process of changing the font is simplified. Most of these firmware supports Magisk modules, among which there are special font packages (for example, FontManager or iFont).

How to install font through Magisk:

  1. Download the FontManager module from the Magisk repository.
  2. Install it through the Magisk Manager app.
  3. Reset the device.
  4. Open the Settings β†’ Magisk β†’ FontManager
  5. Select a font from the list or upload your (.ttf).

Advantages of this method:

  • πŸ”„ Easy rollback to standard font.
  • πŸ“ Support for multiple fonts at the same time (you can switch).
  • πŸ›‘οΈ Minimum risk to the system (Magisk modules are isolated).

However, note that custom firmware deprives you of official Xiaomi support and may contain bugs. Before installing, check the firmware compatibility with your Redmi model on the XDA Developers forum.

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Custom firmware gives maximum freedom of customization, but requires unlocking the bootloader and installing TWRP. This cancels the warranty and increases the risk of "bricking" the device.

Typical problems and their solutions

Even when following instructions, users often encounter errors, and let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them.

Problem.Possible causeDecision
Font went down to standard after the update MIUIThe system resets custom fonts when updatesRepeat the font installation or use the Magisk module
The cyrilica is displayed in squares.Font does not support Russian languageChoose a font that supports cyrillic (for example, Noto Sans)
The device does not load after replacing the fontIncorrect access rights or corrupted fileRestore the original font via TWRP or fastboot
The font does not apply to all applicationsSome apps ignore system fontsUse Force System Font for Magisk

If none of these methods worked, try resetting to factory settings (Settings β†’ About Phone β†’ Settings Reset) that will return the standard font, but delete all user data.

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Before experimenting with fonts, create a backup through Settings β†’ Additional β†’ Backup. This will save your data even if the system stops booting.

FAQ: Frequent questions about changing font to Xiaomi Redmi

Can I change the font without root and ADB?
Yes, but the options will be limited. MIUI (Screen. β†’ Fonts) or install fonts through Mi Theme Store. These methods do not require superuser rights and are safe for the system.
Why are some characters not displayed after installing the font?
This means that the font you choose does not support the desired languages (such as Cyrillic or hieroglyphics). Before installing, check whether the font file includes characters for your language. Good universal options are Noto Sans or Roboto.
How to return a standard font if the system does not boot?
If the device is not turned on because of the font installed incorrectly, you need to: Boot to TWRP (hold Power + Volume Up when you turn on). Connect to your PC and replace the damaged font file in /system/fonts/ with the original. Or reset via Wipe β†’ Advanced Wipe β†’ System (data will be deleted!). If TWRP is not, try flashing the device through fastboot using the Mi Flash Tool.
Does changing the font to Redmi work with Global ROM?
Yes, all of these methods work on both Global ROM and China ROM. However, global versions of MIUI may have fewer embedded fonts in the settings, and some themes from the Mi Theme Store may not be available for Global ROM due to regional restrictions.
Can I install an animated or colored font?
Technically, yes, but it requires a deep modification of the system: Animated fonts (such as those with neon or gradient effects) are installed through special Magisk modules or custom firmware, but they can heavily load the processor and reduce battery life.

If you are a beginner, we recommend starting with standard methods (Methods 1-2) and then moving on to advanced techniques. Remember: MIUI is a heavily modified Android, and not all universal instructions are suitable for it. Always check the compatibility of fonts and methods with your Redmi model and firmware version.