Replacement of the strap on the Xiaomi smart watch: from Mi Band to Watch 2 Pro

Why Replacing a Xiaomi Strap is Not as Easy as It Seems

Xiaomi smart watches have long ceased to be just a gadget for athletes — they have become part of everyday style. But even the most advanced AMOLED- screens and heartbeat sensors pale if the strap has lost its presentable appearance or simply does not fit your image. Only the manufacturer rarely mentions that more 60% of Xiaomi models use unique mounting mechanisms that are not compatible with standard straps from the Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy.

In this article, we will not only examine how to change the strap on popular models (Mi Band 7/8, Watch S1/S2, Watch 2 Pro), but also reveal the nuances that are not mentioned in official instructions, for example, why some straps break on the first removal, how to avoid scratching the watch body, and where to buy parts to avoid running into a fake. Spoiler: cheap replicas with AliExpress can cost more than the original due to hidden mount defects.

And you'll also learn what tools you really need (hint: 90 percent of the time, you don't need screwdrivers), how to tell the difference between fast-release mechanisms and fixed ones, and what to do if the strap is jammed so that the watch is at risk of being left without it forever, and let's start with the most important thing, preparation.

What tools will be needed: minimum and extended set

If you think that a single screwdriver is enough to replace a strap on the Xiaomi Watch, you are wrong. Depending on the model, it can take from zero tools (for fast temper systems) to a whole set of microscrews.

• 🔧 Plastic blade or mediator for latched models (e.g. Mi Band 6/7). Metal objects scratch the body!
• 🔩 Screwdriver with a nozzle T2 or T4 for the Watch S1/S2 and Watch 2 Pro (screws are hidden under plugs).
• 🧲 Magnetic substrate or tweezers — to avoid losing tiny cogs and springs.
• 🔍 Loop or flashlight – Xiaomi mounts are often miniature, and the inscriptions on them are barely visible.
• 🧴 Isopropyl alcohol and cotton swabs - for cleaning contacts, if the strap is not removed for a long time.

⚠️ Warning: Don't use knives or scissors to slash the latches! On the Mi Band 8 and later, the plastic rails break at the slightest pressure. If the strap is tight, it's best to warm up the hairdryer attachment (temperature no higher than 50°C) so that the plastic becomes more elastic.

Most models will have enough plastic spatula and patience, but if you have a Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro with sapphire glass, you better buy a watch repair kit (costs about 300-500 rubles on Wildberries), it has everything you need, including antistatic gloves, which prevent sensors from being damaged by static electricity.

Types of strap fasteners on Xiaomi: how to determine your

The №1 mistake among beginners is to buy a strap of a "similar" design that you can't install, because Xiaomi uses 4 major types of mounts, and they're not interchangeable. Here's how to tell them apart:

To accurately determine the type of fastening, turn the clock over and inspect the place of the junction of the strap with the body:

• 🔍 If you see a circular hole on the side of the pin, it's a quick release.
• 🔧 If the pin is level with the body and there are no buttons, a fixed mount (a screwdriver will be required).
• 🧩 If there are plastic mustaches that go into the case, there are latches with guides.

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Before buying a new strap, measure the distance between the pins (e.g. 20mm or 22mm).Even one Xiaomi model may have different standards!

Step-by-step: how to remove the old strap

Now, let's get to the point. Here's a general-purpose algorithm that works for most models, but remember, the parts can vary depending on the type of attachment. If your watch doesn't work, don't force it, but re-read the mounting type section.

Clean the place of attachment from dirt (coat stick with alcohol)

Prepare the tools (scapula, screwdriver, tweezers)

Place the watch on a soft surface (towel or napkin)

Take a picture of the original position of the strap (so as not to confuse the sides)-->

For models with quick release (Mi Band, Smart Band Pro):

1. Put the clock on the table with the screen down.
2. Find a lock button on the back of the strap (usually metal or plastic).
3. Press the button in the direction of the body and pull the strap up. If you don't, try swaying it left and right.
4. Repeat for the other side.

For fixed pin models (Watch S1/S2, Watch 2 Pro):

1. Remove the stubs from the ends of the strap (plug the shoulder blade).
2. Under the plugs, you'll see the T2 or T4 screws. Turn them counterclockwise.
3. Take the pins out of the case carefully. If it's jammed, don't pull, drop the WD-40 and wait 5 minutes.
4. Remove the straps by remembering the order of the washers and pads (if any).

⚠️ Warning: On the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro, pins are often stuck to the body due to oxidation. If the screw doesn't unscrew, don't force it, you better contact the service. A broken pin inside the body can lock the mechanism permanently.

How to install a new strap: nuances for different models

The new strap seems easy to install, but there are pitfalls here. For example, on the Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro, the pins have asymmetrical threads — if you mix the sides, the strap will hang out. And on the Mi Band 8, the fast-motion fixers sometimes don't click because of factory defects. Let's take them from models.

For the Mi Band 3-8 and Smart Band Pro:

• Insert the pin of the strap into the groove of the body until a slight click.
• Make sure the lock button is in place (it should be protruding a little).
• Pull the strap down - if it doesn't take off, it's done right.

For the Xiaomi Watch S1/S1 Pro, Watch S2:

• Insert the pin into the body hole and hold it with tweezers while you twist the screw.
• Tighten the screw without fanaticism - a pin pin pin pin may crack.
• Make sure that the strap is not dangling, but also not pulled (should be turned with a slight effort).

For Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro and Mi Watch Revolve:

• Combine the "mustache" of the strap with the grooves in the body.
• Then, double the slap (the first is the slap, the second is the slap).
• If the strap sits crooked, do not try to correct by force - remove and insert again.

⚠️ Warning: On the Xiaomi Mi Watch (first generation), magnetic straps sometimes fall off when you move abruptly. If you are in sports, it is better to replace magnets with quick release adapters (sold on AliExpress for 200-300 rubles).

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Before wearing the first wear of the new strap, check it for allergenicity. Silicone straps sometimes cause irritation - wipe the inside with alcohol and wear 1-2 hours to make sure there is no reaction.

Where to buy a strap for Xiaomi: the original vs alternatives

Xiaomi’s original straps are expensive (between 1,500 and 4,000 rubles), but they guarantee a perfect fit and compatibility, but there are some good alternatives on the market – knowing where to look and what to look for.

🔍 How to choose a quality non-original strap:

• 📸 Compare the photo clips to your model — they should match up to a millimeter.
• ⭐ Only buy from sellers with a rating above 97% and reviews with photos.
• 📏 Refine the width of the strap (e.g. 20 mm or 22 mm) - even a 2 mm difference will make it unusable.
• 🛡️ Pay attention to the material: cheap silicone smells like chemistry and sticks to your hand.

💡 Lifehack: There are stores on AliExpress that sell 3-5 strap sets for the price of one original. Look for queries like "Xiaomi Watch S2 strap set." But beware, these sets often come across straps for other models (for example, for Huawei Watch instead of Xiaomi).

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when changing the strap, which are costly to make, and here are the most common mistakes and how to prevent them:

1. The tug of screws on the Watch S1/S2, which causes the carving to break, and the watch has to be carried into service. Solution: twist the screws until first resistance, then make a quarter of a turn.
2. Using the wrong tools. Metal screwdrivers scratch the body, and too wide blades break plastic locks. Solution: buy a watch repair kit with plastic and silicone tools.
3. Confusion of the sides of the strap: Many models have different left and right sides (for example, on the Watch 2 Pro, the left has an extra ledge). Solution: take a picture of the original position before you take it off.
4. Buy a strap without regard to width. A strap 22 mm will not fit into the 20 mm slots, and vice versa. Solution: measure the old strap or find the model specifications on Xiaomi's website.
5. Ignoring the plugs on the screws. If you don't put the plugs back in, you'll get dust and moisture into the mechanism. Solution: Keep the plugs in a separate bag while you're replacing them.

⚠️ Warning: The Xiaomi Mi Band 8 has a heart-beating sensor bug -- if the strap is tightened too tight, the reading becomes inaccurate. Optimal density: the finger should pass between the strap and the wrist, but not freely.

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If the watch starts to count steps or pulse poorly after changing the strap, check the fit density. Silicone straps stretch over time - try moving the watch one division closer to the hand.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions