Changing the font on Xiaomi smartphones is one of the most popular customizations among MIUI users. Even the standard shell offers several built-in options, but the possibilities are expanding to install third-party fonts through apps or even manual implementation through ADB. However, not all methods are equally safe: improper actions can lead to system failures or even “bricking” the device.
In this article, we'll look at 5 proven ways to change the font, from basic settings to advanced methods for power users, how to install a root-free font, what applications actually work on MIUI 14, and what to do if text is displayed in hieroglyphics after the changes, and for owners of devices with an unlocked bootloader, we've prepared a separate section with instructions for custom firmware.
1. Standard settings MIUI: how to change the font without applications
The easiest and safest way is to use the built-in MIUI tools. The manufacturer offers several pre-installed fonts that can be activated in two clicks, a method that is suitable for all Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO models based on MIUI 12-14.
To change the font:
- 📱 Open the Settings. → Display. → Size and style of text
- 🎨 In the "Font" section, select one of the available options (for example, MiSans, Roboto or SF Pro)
- 🔄 Click Apply and wait for the interface to restart (usually takes 5-10 seconds)
Note that in some regional versions of MIUI (e.g. Europe), the number of fonts available may be limited, and if you need additional options, you will need to use third-party apps or manual installation.
2. Installation of fonts through applications: TOP-3 working tools
If you don't have enough built-in options, you can use third-party apps, and it's important to choose proven tools, because many of the Google Play programs contain ads or malicious code, and we tested three reliable solutions:
| Annex | Support for MIUI | Needs root? | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| iFont | MIUI 12–14 | ❌ No. | More 5000 fonts, support TTF/OTF, backup |
| FontFix | MIUI 13+ | ⚠️ Partially. | Fixes display errors after changing font, works without root on some models |
| ZFont 3 | All versions. | ✅ Yes. | Full system font replacement, emoji support, requires Magisk |
For installation via iFont (the most versatile option):
- Download the app from Google Play and open it
- Select your favorite font in the Online section or upload your.ttf/.otf file.
- Click "Set" and follow the instructions (the application will prompt you to set the font as a configuration profile)
- Reset the device
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If after installing the font, some characters are displayed in squares, try clearing the Settings app cache → Apps → Application Management → Settings (yes, it’s a system application!).
Important detail: on devices with MIUI 14 and Android 13+, some applications (such as ZFont) may require additional permission through ADB to replace system fonts. If you are not ready to work with the command line, choose solutions without root.
3. Manual font installation via ADB: for power users
This method is suitable for those who are ready to work with ADB (Android Debug Bridge), it allows you to install any typeface without root rights, but requires accuracy: error in commands can lead to system failure, the advantage of which is full compatibility with the latest versions of MIUI.
What you need:
- 🖥️ Computer with installed ADB Tools
- 📱 Included debugging by USB on a smartphone (Settings) → The phone. → Version. MIUI → 7 times to unlock the developer menu, then Settings → Additionally. → For developers → Debugging by USB)
- 📁 A font file in.ttf format (for example, downloaded from Google Fonts)
Step-by-step:
1. Connect the phone to the PC and check the connection:
adb devices
(Your device should be displayed)
2. Copy the font into the system folder:
adb push your font.ttf /sdcard/
3. Set the rights and replace the system font:
adb shell
su
mount -o rw,remount /system
cp /sdcard/your font.ttf /system/fonts/
chmod 644 /system/fonts/your font.ttf
rebootWhat if the ADB can’t see the device?
⚠️ Note: Some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi Note) 12 Pro+) folder /system It can be protected from records even through ADB. In this case, you will need to unlock the bootloader and get root rights.
4. Replacement of font on custom firmware (TWRP + Magisk)
If your device is running on custom firmware (like LineageOS, Pixel Experience or crDroid), the installation process is simplified, with TWRP and Magisk being the main requirement, which gives you maximum freedom, but requires an unlocked bootloader.
Algorithm of action:
- Download the MagiskFont module from the XDA Developers forum or create your.zip font archive.
- Reboot to TWRP (keep Power + Volume up when turned on)
- Install the module via Install → Select a file → Swipe to Confirm Flash
- Restart the device and activate the module in Magisk Manager
Advantages of this method:
- 🔄 The ability to roll back to the standard font in one click
- 🎨 Support for animated fonts (on some firmware)
- 🛡️ Security: Magisk modules do not affect the system partition
Make a backup copy of the current firmware|Download the MagiskFont module from a verified source|Check the compatibility of the module with your version of Android|Charge your phone at least 50 times%-->
5. Problem Solving: Hieroglyphs, Failures, and the Return of Standard Font
Even if you install fonts carefully, they may not work properly, so let's look at the typical problems and the ways to solve them:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Text is displayed in hieroglyphs or squares | The font does not support Cyrillic/Latin | Install a font with full Unicode support (e.g. Noto Sans) |
| System applications are crumbling after changing the font | Incompatibility with MIUI or file corruption | Clear the app cache or return the standard font via ADB |
| Font resets after MIUI update | Update overwrites system files | Repeat the font installation or use the Magisk module |
To return the standard font:
- 🔧 Through Settings. MIUI: Choose any built-in font and apply it
- 🖥️ Through ADB: adb shell su mount -o rw,remount /system rm /system/fonts/your font.ttf reboot
- 📱 Using Magisk: Disable the font module in Magisk Manager
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If the phone stopped turning on after changing the font, try booting into Safe Mode (hold the power button when turned on) and return the standard settings via ADB.
6.The best fonts for Xiaomi: a selection for different tasks
The choice of font depends on your preferences and use goals. We have prepared a selection of proven options optimized for Xiaomi screens:
- 📱 Reading: OpenDyslexic (Improving readability for people with dyslexia), Merriweather (classic serifs)
- 🎮 For gamers: Press Start 2P (pixel style, Bauhaus 93 (futuristic)
- 💼 For work: Roboto Mono (monowire for code), Lato (universal sans-serif)
- 🎨 For design: Pacifico (handwritten), Bebas Neue (ultra-thin for headlines)
Where to download:
- 🌐 Google Fonts is a free library with an open license
- 🎨 DaFont - a large collection of author fonts (check the license!)
- 📱 CoolApk – Chinese resource with modules for MIUI (Use an interpreter)
⚠️ Warning: When downloading fonts from third-party sites, always check files for viruses. Some archives may contain hidden scripts, especially if the source looks suspicious (for example, offers "exclusive fonts for Xiaomi" for a fee).