Owners of Chinese-brand laptop computers often face the challenge of knowing the exact modification of the device, such as finding drivers, compatible accessories or selling a gadget on the secondary market. Model identification is the first step to competent maintenance, but the case does not always have obvious stickers with a full article.
Xiaomi Mi Notebook and RedmiBook lines have similar designs, but can differ significantly in internal filling even with external similarities. A series definition error can lead to incorrect software installation, which can lead to unstable system operation. In this article, we will discuss all available methods for obtaining reliable information about your device.
There are several levels of detail, from the generic title of the series to the specific factory code (SKU). For most tasks, it is enough to know the series, but for repair or deep diagnostics you will need a full identifier. We will look at the software and physical methods of verification, so you can choose the most convenient option.
Use of embedded Windows tools
The fastest way to get basic information is to go to the operating system. Windows automatically reads data from the BIOS and displays it in the interface. Right-click on the Start button and select System in the menu that opens. The window that appears often shows the device name, but it can be generic, for example, just "Mi Notebook Pro."
For more details, use System Information. Press Win + R, type msinfo32, and press Enter. In the window that opens, find the lines "Model" and "SKU Systems." This often displays the exact code needed to search for drivers on the official website.
- 🔍 Open the Start menu and enter System Information».
- 💻 Find the Model field in the central part of the window.
- 📋 Copy the value for further search on the Internet.
⚠️ Note: In some cases, the Model field may contain a common platform code rather than a commercial name. JYU4132CN, That's the exact article.
Another method is to use a Device Manager, which is more commonly used to view components, but sometimes you can find additional data in the properties of the computer itself. Go to Computer, right-click, and select Properties, which can show manufacturer and base model information.
Checking through the command line and PowerShell
If the GUI doesn't give you the full picture, console commands come to the rescue, and they allow you to query data directly from the BIOS/UEFI without any possible display errors in Windows, which is the most reliable method for obtaining a serial number and an accurate model.
Open the command prompt (CMD) or PowerShell on behalf of the administrator. To do this, right-click on the Start button and select the appropriate option. Enter the following command and press Enter:
wmic bios get serialnumber, manufacturer, versionThis command will output the manufacturer, the BIOS version and the serial number. Often the serial number contains coded information about the model.
wmic computersystem get modelThe result will be an exact string that the manufacturer has sewn into firmware, such as the Xiaomi Notebook Pro 15.6 2018 or RedmiBook 14.
What to do if the team is not working?
- ⌨️ Launch PowerShell on behalf of the Administrator.
- 📝 Enter a command to request data BIOS.
- 💾 Save output to text file for convenience.
Using the command line is especially useful when the screen is damaged or the system is in emergency mode. Knowing the exact model, you can find compatible drivers even on another computer.
Model definition via BIOS/UEFI
When the operating system doesn't boot, the only entry point is BIOS. The UEFI interface on Xiaomi laptops is usually based on American Megatrends solutions, but has a proprietary shell. To get there, turn on the laptop and immediately start pressing F2 frequently.
Main usually displays basic information: the processor, memory, and most importantly, the Product Name or Model, and is the most reliable data, as it is read directly from the motherboard to the OS boot.
In some RedmiBooks, information can be hidden in the Advanced or System Information tab, navigation is done with the keyboard arrows, and entry to the submenu is done with the Enter keys. Write down all visible codes, which can be useful when communicating with technical support.
⚠️ Note: Do not change the settings in BIOS, Load Setup Defaults is safe, but experimenting with voltages or boot modes can disrupt the system.
If standard F2 input doesn’t work, try the Fn + F2 combination. On some Xiaomi laptops, the functional keys are multimedia by default, and you can also sign in via Esc and then select “Enter Setup”.
Physical marking on the device body
Manufacturers often put technical information on the bottom of a laptop. On Xiaomi and RedmiBook devices, the sticker is usually closer to the center or at one of the edges, under rubber legs. However, in today's thin models, stickers may not be available, and the information is embossed with a laser directly on metal.
Look for a line that starts with Model: or M/N. The serial number (S/N) and certification codes are usually next to it. If the sticker is erased or missing, look around the keyboard and touchpad. Sometimes the model name (such as the Mi Notebook Air) is printed on the screen frame or under the touchpad.
It's important to distinguish the marketing name from the technical one: "Mi Notebook Pro 15" is the marketing name, and "JYU4118CN" is the technical article.
| Location. | Type of marking | Example of data | Credibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom cover. | Sticker/Engraving | Model: JYU4118CN | Tall. |
| Loading screen | Logo + Text | Mi Notebook Pro | Medium |
| Packaging | Barcode sticker | Xiaomi Notebook Pro 15.6" | Tall. |
| Documentation. | Guarantee pass | Article: 123456789 | Medium |
If the used laptop and sticker are removed, you have to rely on software or body opening techniques, but opening the device can result in a loss of warranty if the screw seals are damaged.
Specialized software for diagnostics
Third-party ulites are able to provide the most complete information about hardware, often more detailed than standard Windows tools. Programs like CPU-Z, HWiNFO or AIDA64 read data directly from controllers.
Download the free version of CPU-Z from the official website. After launching, go to the tab "About" or "Mainboard" (System board). The "Model" field often displays the exact motherboard ID that matches the model of the laptop, for example, Xiaomi HAX or RedmiBook 14 II.
HWiNFO offers Sensors-only or Summary mode when it launches. Select the Summar Report mode. In the Computer -> DMI -> System Information section, you will find the System Manufacturer and System Product Name fields, which are the most technically competent description of your device.
- 📥 Download and install the utility CPU-Z or HWiNFO.
- 🖥️ Launch the program on behalf of the administrator.
- 📊 Go to the Mainboard or System tab».
- 📝 Find the Model or Product Name line.
⚠️ Note: Only download diagnostic software from official developer sites. Unverified versions may contain malware, especially dangerous for laptops with sensitive data.
Search code on packaging and checks
If the laptop itself is not available (for example, it is sold and you are a buyer, or the device is sent to the service), information can be found on the box. On the side or end of the cardboard package there is always a sticker with barcodes.
This sticker shows Model and Part Number. QR-A code that a smartphone can read to a product page or spec, and saving boxes and checks is a good practice for expensive electronics owners.
In a check from an online store (e.g. AliExpress, Mi.com, DNS), the model is often abbreviated. Look for the seller's article or the store's internal code. Mapping this data with the description on the store's website will help you accurately identify the modification (e.g., memory capacity or type of graphics card).