The mobile market is crowded with devices, and Xiaomi’s lineup is at the forefront. Users often face confusion when the global version of the name differs from the Chinese one, or when the device is sold under the Redmi or POCO brand, although technically part of the Xiaomi ecosystem. Knowing the exact identifier is necessary not only for matching accessories, but also for finding relevant drivers or firmware.
There are many methods of identification, from the simple inspection of the box to the use of engineering codes. Accurate model avoids errors when restoring the system or buying compatible glass. In this article, we will examine all available methods, from software to hardware, so you can be sure of the specifications of your gadget.
Sometimes the visual similarity of the devices confuses even experienced users. For example, the Redmi Note 10 and Redmi Note 10 Pro may seem almost identical on the outside, but their internal content is radically different, so relying only on the appearance or marketing name on the box is not always safe.
Use of the system settings menu
The easiest and most affordable way to find out about the device is to look through the system menu, which requires unlocking the screen and finding the Settings icon, and depending on the version of the MIUI shell or HyperOS, the path may be slightly different, but the logic remains the same.
Go to About Phone (or Device) and this is where a major marketing name like Xiaomi 13T is displayed. However, for accurate identification, it is often necessary to click several times in a row on the line with the name of the MIUI version or the system logo to open an extended menu.
In the window that opens, you will see the Model Device box, and this code (e.g. 23049PCD8G) is a unique identifier that doesn't change depending on the region of sale and the color of the case, and it's the most reliable way to know which hardware version you're holding.
⚠️ Warning: Don't confuse a marketing name (a beautiful name for advertising) with a model code.
The interface may look different on different versions of Android. If you can't find the right bar, try searching by settings by typing the word "model" or "about phone." The system will tell you the menu item you want.
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If you are planning to flash, write down the model code on paper or take a screenshot, as after resetting the settings, access to some data may be temporarily limited.
Checking through the engineering menu and codes
Special diagnostics and technical information can be used for more in-depth diagnosis USSD-This method works even if the touch screen is partially unresponsive, as dialing is always available. Enter the phone app code ##64663##.
This code opens the CIT (Customer Interface Test) menu, which contains all the technical information about the components, at the top of the list or in the Version section, the exact model of the device is often duplicated, and this menu also allows you to check the performance of each sensor separately.
The alternative code *#06# displays IMEI and serial number information, and although it doesn't show the model name directly, it does identify the device through a service, and enter the codes carefully, without any unnecessary characters.
- 📱 Code ##64663## opens the full test menu of the hardware.
- 🔍 Code *#06# shows IMEI, which is required to check on the manufacturer’s website.
- ⚙️ Code #4636## opens the testing and statistics menu (not available on all versions).
- 📡 The combination ##426## can launch Google Play, which also shows the model.
Some codes can be blocked by a carrier or manufacturer in certain regions. If one code doesn't work, try the next one on the list. The engineering menu is a powerful tool, but you shouldn't change the settings inside it without understanding the consequences.
Physical inspection of the shell and packaging
If the phone doesn't turn on or the screen is completely broken, all that remains is an external inspection, and the original package always has a barcode sticker, and it shows the Model, color, memory and region, and it's the most reliable source of information for the new device.
The case itself is placed differently, and modern smartphones with solid glass do not have a sticker at the back, but on older models or versions for certain markets (China, India), information can be printed in fine print on the back cover or on the tray for the purpose of creating a new model. SIM-map.
Take a close look at the SIM card tray. Remove it with a paper clip. Some Xiaomi and Redmi models have model code engraved on the end of the tray. It's rare, but it's worth checking. Also look for fine text around the camera or at the bottom of the back.
⚠️ Warning: If there's a safety tape on the back of your phone, don't trust it blindly.
For devices with removable batteries (which is extremely rare nowadays), the information was under the battery. In modern times, lean on the box. If the box is lost and the phone does not turn on, only connecting to the computer will help.
Identification through PC Connection
When the screen is not working, the computer will save you. USB-Cable. Select file transfer mode (MTP), If the phone asks for permission, the computer will identify the device and install the drivers.
Open Device Manager in Windows (click Win+X and select). Find Portable Devices or Android Phone. It will show the model name. Sometimes it will show up as Android, then you need to see the device properties.
A more advanced way is to use the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) program, where if you have USB debugging enabled on your phone, you can get a full report on your PC.
adb shell getprop ro.product.modelThis command will return the exact code of the model, and you can also use utilities like AIDA64 or 360 Assistant, which, when connected via USB, display a detailed report on the hardware on the computer screen, including the code name of the processor and the screen matrix.
☑️ PC-based verification
Comparison of models by code and characteristics
Understanding the difference between codes helps avoid buying incompatible parts. Global versions are often suffixed or different from Chinese counterparts. Below is a table to illustrate the differences in codes of popular devices.
| Marketing name | Model code (Global) | Model code (China) | Series |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 10 | M2101K7BG | M2101K7BN | M2101K7* |
| Xiaomi 12 | 2201123G | 2201123C | 2201123* |
| POCO F4 | 22021211RG | 22021211C | 22021211* |
| Redmi 10 | 21061110DG | 21061110C | 21061110* |
As you can see from the table, the last letters often indicate the region: G – Global, C – China. This is critical when choosing the housing (back cover), as the location of the holes for cameras and flashes can vary by millimeters, which will make installation impossible.
The codes also help to understand whether the device supports certain bandwidths (Band). Chinese versions may not work with Russian operators in 4G/5G bands, even if they are externally identical to the global ones.
Why are the codes different?
Using diagnostic applications
If standard tools aren't enough, third-party apps from Google Play come to the rescue, and they collect comprehensive information about the system, one of the best is Device Info HW or AIDA64.
These programs show not only the model, but also the screen manufacturer, the memory type, the fingerprint sensor version, which is useful if you're buying a used phone and you want to make sure that the original components are inside, not the replacements.
Install the app, run the scan. In the Device or System section, you'll have a Model string. It'll also show real screen resolution and pixel density, which helps you distinguish the fake from the original, because in fakes, these settings are often software-changed in the settings, but the physical hardware gives you the truth.
⚠️ Note: Only download diagnostic ulites from the official Google Play Store. Apps from unknown sources may contain viruses or personal data.
Using these tools is a professional approach to diagnostics, allowing you to see hidden options that are not displayed in the standard Android settings menu, and this is especially true for determining the version of RAM (LPDDR4X or LPDDR5).
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Third-party apps provide more detailed information about components than the standard Android menu, which is important when buying used equipment.