Modern wearables from Xiaomi, such as the popular fitness trackers Mi Band and smart watch Amazfit, have become an integral part of the daily lives of millions of users. Replaceable straps allow you not only to adapt the gadget to any style of clothing, but also to extend the life of the device itself, replacing the worn accessory with a new one. However, not everyone knows how to change the strap on Xiaomi watches to avoid damaging the fragile fastening mechanisms.
In this article, we will explore the nuances of bracelet replacement on various smartwatches and fitness trackers. You will learn about the types of fasteners, necessary tools and safety techniques to help avoid accidental breakage. A unique feature of the Mi Band design is that the tracker itself often acts as a fixator, so you need to remove it with extreme care.
Before you start the procedure, it is important to determine the type of device you have, as replacement methods can vary significantly. Some models require minimal effort, while others involve the use of special tools. Understanding the design of your gadget is the first step to successfully and quickly replace the accessory without going to the service center.
Determination of type of attachment and compatible models
The first step before buying a new accessory and starting a replacement is to determine the exact model of your device. Strap compatibility is a critical parameter, as even within the same brand, mounts can be radically different. For example, early versions of the Mi Band have a completely different capsule design compared to the latest models of the 7 or 8 series.
Amazfit smartwatches, which are also often associated with the Xiaomi ecosystem, typically use standard 20mm or 22mm wide mounts, making them compatible with a variety of third-party accessories. Unlike them, Mi Band fitness trackers often require specific straps designed specifically for a particular version, where the tracker itself is inserted into the slots of the bracelet.
⚠️ Warning: Never force a strap designed for another model, which can cause plastic ears to break or damage the body of the tracker itself.
To identify the model accurately, flip the device over and look at the back cover, which usually shows the exact model number or series name, and you can find this information in the Zepp Life or Mi Fitness app in Profile → My Devices.
- 🔍 Mi Band 1-6: The tracker is removed from a silicone bracelet, which serves as a body at the same time.
- ⌚ Mi Band 7-8 and newer: Use a rapid change mechanism, where the strap is unfastened from the main unit.
- 🛠️ Amazfit Bip/Stratos/GTS: Standard mounts with spring bars or quick-removal mechanisms.
- 🧩 Haylou and other sub-brands: Often copy Mi Band mounts but require compatibility checks.
Tools and workplace preparation required
Replacing the strap is a procedure that doesn't require complex equipment, but having the right tools makes it much easier and reduces the risk of damage. For most Xiaomi and Amazfit models, your hands and maybe a couple of auxiliary items are enough. It's important to prepare the workplace: the surface should be flat, clean and well-lit.
It is recommended to cover the table with a soft towel or use a special mat. This will prevent scratches on the watch screen in case they accidentally slip out of your hands. If you change the strap on a model with a standard mount, you may need a special embroidery or a thin blade, although you can often do with a nail.
☑️ Preparation for the belt replacement
In some cases, especially when working with metal bracelets or old, "stiffened" silicone straps, an additional tool may be required. The plastic spatula (spooger) is ideal for putting on stubs, as it does not scratch metal. Metal tools are used only as a last resort and with the utmost care.
- 🧤 Soft fabric: To wipe the watch case and protect the table surface.
- 🔦 Light source: Lamp or bright daylight for working with small details.
- 🛠️ Tool for pin removal: Optionally, for Amazfit models with standard mounting.
Instructions for replacing the strap with the Mi Band (1-6 generation)
The first six generations of the Mi Band fitness trackers have a unique design where the tracker itself (a capsule with a screen and a battery) is a removable element, and the strap is a silicone frame. To replace this strap, you need to first remove the tracker. This requires care, because the plastic can be quite tight.
Take the tracker in one hand, and with the other hand, press the convex part of the silicone on the inside of the wrist, pushing the capsule outward. If you can do this with your hands, you can use the edge of the table or a special plastic puncher. Do not use sharp objects that can damage the tightness or screen.
⚠️ Warning: When removing the tracker, avoid excessive bending of the silicone strap in the opposite direction so as not to damage the structure of the material and the attachment location.
After removing the capsule, insert it into a new strap. First, wind one edge of the tracker into the groove, then gently press the opposite edge until a characteristic click or tight fit. Make sure the tracker sits flat and does not dangle.
What if the tracker does not fit into the new strap?
Replacement of the bracelet with Mi Band 7, 8 and newer models
Starting with the Mi Band 7 and especially the Mi Band 8, Xiaomi has moved to a new mounting system that allows you to change the straps without removing the main unit. This greatly simplifies the process and makes it similar to replacing the straps on a classic watch.
To replace it, find the locking mechanism on the back of the mount, usually a small lever or button that you press or move. Once the lock is unlocked, the strap easily detachs from the watch body. The new strap is set in reverse order before the click.
It is important to monitor the orientation of the strap. On the inside, there are often L (left) and R (right) markings or corresponding symbols. Installation of the strap in the wrong orientation can cause it to not snap or sit crooked.
- 🔓 Unlock: Press the hidden lock with your nail or plastic tool.
- 📏 Orientation: Check the tags L/R for proper installation of upper and lower parts.
- ✅ Fixing: Make sure there is a clear click confirming a reliable fastening.
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When buying a new Mi Band 7/8 strap, pay attention to the availability of adapters. Some strap models require the use of original plastic adapters from the old bracelet.
Working with classic fasteners of Amazfit and other watches
Many Amazfit smartwatches (GTR, GTS, Bip series) and more advanced Xiaomi Watch models use standard mounts. The width of the mount (the distance between the body's ears) is usually 20 mm or 22 mm. The belt replacement here is done in a classic scheme using spring pins.
If your watch uses a quick release strap, it takes a few seconds to replace it with a finger or a blunt object, pulling a small lever on the inside of the strap and pulling it aside.
If you don't have a quick-release mechanism, you'll need a tool to remove the pins. Put the tool's tip in the gap between the strap and the body, press the spring pin to compress it, and at the same time pull the strap to the side. Be careful: the spring may fly out, so you have to operate on the soft surface.
| Model clock | Type of attachment | Width (mm) | Tool. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazfit Bip / Bip S | Spring pin | 20 mm | Knife/Knife |
| Amazfit GTS 2 / 3 / 4 | Quick Release | 20 mm | Not required |
| Amazfit GTR 2 / 3 / 4 | Quick Release | 22 mm | Not required |
| Xiaomi Watch S1 | Quick Release | 22 mm | Not required |
| Mi Watch Lite | Specific | N/D | Only the original. |
Caring for the strap and frequent mistakes when replacing
Proper strap care extends its life and keeps the device neat. Silicone straps, popular on fitness trackers, tend to accumulate sweat and dirt, which can cause skin irritation. Regularly washing with warm water with mild soap will help avoid this.
Leather straps require more delicate handling. They should not be wetted, as moisture destroys the structure of the skin and can damage the glue at the joints. Use special sprays or wet wipes for the skin. Metal bracelets (Milanese weaving) should be wiped with dry cloth to avoid corrosion.
One of the common mistakes is to ignore the wear of fasteners. If you notice that the pin has loosened or the plastic fixture has lost its elasticity, it is better to replace it immediately. Losing watches due to unfastened strap is a common problem that is easy to prevent.
- 💧 Moisture: Always dry the strap after contact with water or afterward.
- ☀️ Sun: Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, silicone may fade.
- 🧴 Chemistry: Do not use aggressive solvents, alcohol or acetone to clean.
⚠️ Warning: If you use a swim watch, be sure to check the strap's adhesion density before each dive. Chlorinated or salt water can accelerate material wear.
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Regularly checking the condition of fasteners and timely replacement of worn straps is a guarantee that your smartwatch will not fall from your wrist at the most inopportune moment.