Why it is important to know the Xiaomi model
Have you ever tried to find a case, accessory or firmware for your Xiaomi, but could not find the right version? Or did you find that after buying a used phone, the specs do not match the stated ones? All this is because under one commercial name (for example, Redmi Note 11) there are several technical modifications with different processors, cameras or network support.
The manufacturer uses a complex system of notation: the same model can have variants for different regions (Global, China, India), carriers or hardware revisions. For example, the Redmi Note 10 Pro was released as a sweet (codename) with the model number M2101K6G for the global market and M2101K6C for China. Without an accurate knowledge of the model, you risk:
- π Buy an incompatible charger (different models support different fast charging power).
- π± Install the wrong firmware, which will lead to a blink (breakdown) of the phone.
- π οΈ Order a part for repairs that will not fit the connectors or sizes.
In this article, weβve compiled all the current ways to learn about Xiaomiβs model, including hidden methods for phones with damaged screens or without access to the system. Choose the right option for you and follow the step-by-step instructions.
Method 1: Through phone settings (the easiest one)
If your Xiaomi is switched on and running consistently, this method will take no more than 10 seconds, suitable for all MIUI smartphones (including POCO and Black Shark) and Android One (for example, Mi A1/A2/A3).
Open the Settings app (cog icon) and follow the following steps:
- Scroll down and select About Phone (or About Phone in English firmware).
- Click on the device model (or model number).
- Remember or copy the combination you see, for example, 2201116PG is a Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G for the global market.
β οΈ Note: On some firmware (especially Chinese) the model name may be displayed in hieroglyphics or abbreviations (for example, vili instead of the model name). 2109119DG). In this case, use the method with the code to get the exact number.
βοΈ What to do if there is no section "About the phone"
Method 2: Label under the battery or on the body
If the phone doesnβt turn on, split the screen, or locks the pattern lock, the physical label will be your salvation. On all Xiaomi smartphones (except monolithic models like the Mix Fold), the model is listed in two places:
- Under the removable lid (for older models with a replaceable battery, such as the Redmi 3S/4A): remove the back panel and find a sticker labeled Model or TYPE.
- Under a non-removable lid (for most modern phones): the model is indicated on the sticker under the tray for SIM-cards or near the USB-Type C connector.
π How to Read the Label:
- π± Look for a line that starts with the letter M (for example, the letter M, M2004J7AC β it POCO X3 NFC).
- π’ Sometimes the model is in the format 2201123G (first figures - year and month of release).
- π« Don't confuse it with a serial number (S/N) or IMEI β They do not contain information about the model!
What to do if the label is gone or missing
β οΈ Note: Some models (e.g. Xiaomi) 12T) The label is hidden under a protective film. Don't try to scrape it with a knife, use alcohol and soft fabric to avoid damaging the body.
Method 3: Through engineering code ##4636##
This method works on all Android devices, including Xiaomi, and does not require an internet connection. It is useful if you have custom firmware (like LineageOS) installed that hides the original information about the model.
Follow the following steps:
- Open the phone (calling) application.
- Enter the combination: ##4636## (no spaces).
- In the menu that opens, select the Phone Information tab.
- Scroll down to the line Model device or Model number.
π‘ If the code doesnβt work, try the alternative: ##6484## (displays data about the code). MIUI) or ##64663## (test menu) on some firmware, these codes may be blocked, in which case use the method of using the code. ADB.
| Code. | What shows | Works for Xiaomi? |
|---|---|---|
| ##4636## | Phone and battery information | β Yes. |
| ##6484## | Data on MIUI version | β Yes (except Android One) |
| *#06# | IMEI devices | β Yes. |
| ##232338## | MAC-Wi-Fi address | β Yes. |
| ##2664## | Display test | β No (working for Samsung) |
Method 4: Through ADB (for advanced users)
If you have a computer and have ever used ADB (Android Debug Bridge), this method will give you the most complete information about the device, including the code name (for example, raphael for Redmi K20 Pro).
Follow the instructions:
- Install ADB and Fastboot Tools on PC.
- Turn on USB Debugging on your phone: Settings β About Phone β MIUI version (click 7 times to become a developer), then go back to Settings β Additional β Developers β Debugging on USB.
- Connect your phone to your computer and type in the command line: adb shell getprop ro.product.model
- To obtain encoding (e.g. global or cn) use: adb shell getprop ro.miui.region
π Example of inference:
M2007J3SC [ro.product.model]
cn [ro.miui.region]This means you have a Redmi Note 9 Pro for the Chinese market (cn).
π‘
If the adb device team doesnβt find your phone, install Mi USB Driver drivers from Xiaomiβs official website or use universal drivers from Google.
β οΈ Note: Do not use fastboot commands (e.g. fastboot getvar product) unless you are confident in your actions. Incorrect command in fastboot mode can lead to data loss or a phone reset.
Method 5: By Box or Document
If you saved the original packaging from your phone, the model is listed on the sticker on the side or bottom of the box.
- π¦ Model or Model - Full Number (for example, 2203121C Xiaomi 12 Pro).
- π TYPE β alternative designation (sometimes the same as the model).
- π’ IMEI β You can check the model through services like IMEI.info.
π How to tell a fake: The original Xiaomi box has a clear print without typos, and the sticker has holographic elements. If you see words like For Russia Only on the box of the global version, it's a fake.
The model can also be found in:
- π Warranty card (line Model No.).
- π Check or invoice from the store (if you bought officially).
- π§ Email confirmation of order (for online stores).
π‘
If the model on the box and the phone settings don't match, you're either a fake or a phone with a flashed firmware, and then use the ADB method to clarify.
Method 6: Appearance (Visual Identification)
If the phone doesn't turn on and the label doesn't, you can try to identify the model by design, which is less accurate, but it will help narrow the search.
- π Camera Location: Vertical Unit - Redmi Note 10/11 or POCO X3. Round module - Mi 11 Xiaomi 12. Three cameras in line - Redmi 9 or POCO M3.
- π Connectors and buttons: 3.5-mm + IR port - Redmi Note 8/9. Only USB-Type C without audio output β Xiaomi 11T Or newer. Google Assistant button on the frame β POCO F3.
- π¨ Color and material of the case: Glass back panel with a gradient - Mi 10 or Mi 11" β POCO X3 NFC. Metal frame - Redmi K40 or black shark.
π How to Check the Assumption: Take a Photo of Your Phone from Different Viewpoints and Compare It to Images on Websites:
- GSMArena (Filter by Brand and Year)
- The official website of Xiaomi (Devices section).
- Kimovil (detailed specifications with photo).
β οΈ Note: Some models are almost identical in appearance, but have different hardware. For example, the Redmi Note 10 Pro (with Snapdragon) 732G) Redmi Note 10 Pro 5G (Dimensity 700: Looks the same, but is incompatible with firmware!
Method 7: Through Third Party Applications
If you want not only a model, but also full hardware information (processor, memory, sensors), use specialized utilities. We tested them on Xiaomi with MIUI 12-14 and Android 11-13 - all work stable.
π Top.-3 modelling:
- AIDA64 (paid version): Shows Model, Codename (e.g. alioth for POCO F3), MIUI version. Displays data about the processor, cameras, battery. Link: Google Play.
- CPU-Z (free): Device tab β Model string. Shows real CPU frequency (useful for for counterfeiting checks).
MIUI Version Checker
- Shows the exact version of MIUI and compatible updates.
- Determines the firmware region (Global, China, EEA).
- Link: Google Play.
If nothing helps, take your phone apart (carefully!) and find the label under the battery or on the motherboard.
π± Why the Settings Show an Incomplete Model (for example, only the Redmi Note 10")?
π§ How to determine from the model whether the firmware is suitable for my Xiaomi?
MIUI version
MIUI 13
MIUI 14
π Where to download the official firmware:
- Xiaomi official website (choose by encoding!).
- Xiaomi Firmware Updater (archive firmware with version history).
β οΈ Warning: Never install firmware from another model (even if the names are similar!) This will result in loss of firmware. IMEI or complete inoperability of the phone.