How to connect the keyboard to the Xiaomi tablet: instructions for all models

Connecting a keyboard to a Xiaomi tablet makes it a full-fledged working tool — convenient for typing, programming or managing presentations. However, not everyone knows that modern Mi Pad, Redmi Pad and POCO Pad tablets support both wireless and wired keyboards through different interfaces. In this article, we will discuss all the available ways of connecting, including the nuances of compatibility and solving typical problems.

It is important to understand that the choice of method depends on the model of the keyboard and the version of the tablet. For example, Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro with a port. USB-C 3.2 supports wired keyboards without adapters, whereas for Redmi Pad SE may be required OTG-We'll look at options for all popular models, including older devices on the MIUI 12 and new with HyperOS.

1. Connecting a wireless keyboard via Bluetooth

The most versatile way is Bluetooth synchronization, which works with all Xiaomi tablets, Released after 2018, and supports most keyboards from Logitech, Microsoft, Apple and other brands, the main condition is that the keyboard must have a pairing mode (usually activated by the Connect button or Fn + B retention).

The connection process takes no more than a minute:

• 📱 Open the Settings. → Bluetooth on your tablet and activate device search.
• 🔑 Transfer the keyboard to pairing mode (on most models flashing indicator lights up).
• 🔄 In the list of found devices, select the name of your keyboard (for example, Logitech). K380).
• ✅ Confirm the connection on both devices (sometimes you need to enter) PIN-code, for example 0000).

If the keyboard is not defined, check:

• 🔋 Battery charge (discharged devices may not appear in the list).
• 📶 Distance to tablet (maximum 10 meters without obstacles).
• 🔄 Reboot both devices and try again.

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If your keyboard supports multiple devices (like Logitech MX Keys), use a channel switch (usually a 1/2/3 button) to select a tablet.

2. Wired connection via USB-C or OTG

For users who prefer the stability of a wired connection, a USB-C connection is suitable. Modern Xiaomi tablets (starting with the Pad 5) support USB OTG (On-The-Go), which allows you to connect the peripherals directly.

• 🔌 Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro and newer: port USB-C 3.2 supports direct data transfer – just insert a keyboard with a connector USB-C or USB-A adapter.
• 🔄 Redmi Pad / POCO Pad: required OTG-adapter (Type-C) → USB-A), The port does not always support the periphery directly.
• ⚡ Mi Pad 4 and older: You may need to be active OTG-Powered hub if the keyboard consumes a lot of energy.

Instructions for connection:

1. Purchase a suitable cable or adapter (e.g. USB-C → USB-A for USB-A keyboards).
2. Connect the keyboard to the tablet. There's a notification on the screen "USB-plug-in".
3. If the keyboard does not work, check the settings in Settings → Additional → OTG (on some firmware this item is hidden).

OTG support for your tablet model | Keyboard jack type (USB-A/C)| Power availability (for active hubs) | Firmware update (minimum MIUI 12)

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⚠️ Attention: Some are cheap OTG-Adapters don't support data transfer, only charging. Buy certified accessories (e.g. from Anker or Baseus).

3. Connecting the keyboard through the docking station

If you use a Xiaomi tablet as a replacement for a laptop, the best solution is a docking station (for example, Xiaomi Multiport Adapter or universal hubs from Satechi).

• 🔌 Simultaneous connection of keyboard, mouse, monitor and drives through one port.
• 🔋 Power the tablet during operation (dock stations often have a PD-charging).
• 🖥️ Support for external displays (up to) 4K@60Hz pad 6 Pro).

How to connect:

1. Connect the dock to the tablet via USB-C.
2. Connect the keyboard to USB-port of the hub (preferably) USB 3.0 for minimum delays).
3. If necessary, connect the mouse and monitor.

Keyboards with backlit or multimedia keys may require additional drivers. On Xiaomi tablets, they only work in base mode (without brightness/volume control).

4. Connecting a keyboard from a smartphone (e.g. Black Shark)

Owners of Xiaomi-owned Black Shark gaming smartphones can use proprietary keyboards such as the Black Shark GamePad 4. These devices connect via Bluetooth LE and are optimized for MIUI/HyperOS, but require special software:

1. Install Black Shark Game Space from Google Play.
2. Activate the "Game Management" mode in the application settings.
3. Connect the keyboard via Bluetooth (in the Device menu → Add accessory).

⚠️ Note: Black Shark gaming keyboards do not support text input in standard applications (e.g. Google Docs) and are only for games with gamepad support.

Bluetooth wireless|Wired USB|Through the dock.|Playing (Black Shark)|Another.-->

5. Solving Connection Problems

If the keyboard doesn’t work after you connect, check the following points:

• 🔄 Reboot: Turn off the keyboard, reboot the tablet and reconnect.
• 📋 Permissions: C Settings → Annexes → Special access → USB Check if access to the device is allowed.
• 🔧 Updates: Install the latest firmware updates (in Settings) → The phone. → Updating the system).

Common mistakes and their causes:

6. Optimization of the keyboard on Xiaomi

After successful connection, configure the keyboard for maximum convenience:

• 🌐 Language and layout: Add the required languages to Settings → Additionally. → Language and input → Physical keyboard.
• ⚡ Energy saving: Turn off battery optimization for Bluetooth (in Settings) → Battery → Battery Optimization Find Your Keyboard and Select "No Limits").
• 🎯 Keyboard shortcuts: HyperOS supports hotkeys (e.g. Win) + D for desktop. Complete list - in Settings → System system → Gestures and keyboards.

For advanced users:

• 🛠️ Use applications like External Keyboard Helper to customize macros.
• 🖥️ Activate Desktop mode in MIUI (Available on Pad 6 Pro to make the keyboard work like a PC.

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On Xiaomi tablets with HyperOS, the keyboard automatically switches between text input and cursor control (using Tab, Shift+Tab keys).

7. Compatibility of keyboards with different Xiaomi models

Not all keyboards work equally well with Xiaomi tablets, and the following is the compatibility table of popular models:

For maximum compatibility, choose keyboards with Bluetooth 5.0+ or USB-C protocols. Avoid devices with proprietary drivers (such as some Razer models), as they may not work without Windows/macOS software.

FAQ: Frequent questions