How to accurately determine the model of Xiaomi fitness bracelet

Wearables users often face a situation where they need to know the exact modification of the device, but the box is lost and the checks are not preserved. This is especially true for owners of Mi Band and Smart Band trackers, since visually different generations can look almost identical. Understanding how to learn the model of the gadget is critical for matching straps, the right covers, or specific versions of the firmware.

There are several ways to determine the version of the device, from visual inspection to the use of specialized software. Accurate identification will avoid errors when buying accessories that may not fit your version of the tracker. In this article, we will discuss all available methods, from simple to more complex, so you can quickly get the information you need.

It's important to understand that Xiaomi has a lot of modifications, including global (Global) and Chinese (CN) versions, which sometimes have different functionality. The only way to guarantee the exact article is a combination of the visual code on the strap and the system menu data. Let's go through each method in detail.

Visual identification by appearance and screen

The first and most affordable way to distinguish between models is to look at the tracker's appearance carefully. Different generations of the Mi Band have radically different screen and mount form factors. For example, the first three generations had an oval capsule shape, while from version 4, the screen became round, and from the 6th - completely rectangular without physical buttons.

Notice the physical button on the front. Mi Band 1, 1S and 2 were equipped with a touch or mechanical button to control the interface. More modern versions, such as the Mi Smart Band 5, 6 and 7, moved to fully touch-sensitive control, where the entire bottom edge is part of the display. This is a key visual marker that allows you to immediately cut off old models.

The size and shape of the capsule also play a crucial role. If you try to insert a capsule from version 5 into the strap 6, they just don't match the dimensions. The Mi Band 4 capsule has rounded edges and an oval shape, whereas the Mi Band 6 and later is a strict rectangle with rounded corners. The screen size also grows with each generation, from 0.96 inches in early models to 1.62 inches in Band 7 Pro.

⚠️ Warning: Don't rely only on the strap's appearance.Silicon straps are often changed by users, and the strap installed may be from another model or third-party manufacturer, which will confuse you.

Search for markings on the strap and capsule

The most reliable way to do this, not to include a device or a smartphone, is to find a factory marking. The inside of the original silicone strap is always marked with an alphanumeric code. This code is a direct indication of a compatible model, usually located closer to the capsule mounting hole or on the inner arch.

The labeling codes look like a combination of letters and numbers, for example, XMSH09HM or XIAOMI-HM. You can decrypt them with knowledge of the basic designations. The code XMSH09HM corresponds to Mi Band 3, and XMSH12HM is already Mi Band 4. For newer models, such as the Mi Smart Band 6, the code can look like XMSH16HM. Knowing this code, you can easily find compatible accessories in online stores.

In addition to the strap, you can find information on the capsule itself. Take the tracker off the strap and carefully examine the back cover. It often features the MI logo and small print inscribed with a model designation, such as the Mi Band 5 or Mi Smart Band 6. It also lists a waterproof class (such as 5ATM), which also helps in identifying: models before the Mi Band 4 had IP67 protection, and since version 4 - 5ATM.

If the strap doesn't have any inscriptions, it's probably a generic substitute or a replica of poor quality, so you should look for a sticker on the factory packaging if it's still there, and there's always a barcode on the box and the full model name in English and Chinese.

Definition of the model through the Mi Fitness application

The most technically competent way is to use an official sync app, depending on the year your device was released, you will need either the Mi Fit app (now renamed Zepp Life) or the new Mi Fitness (formerly Zepp). Current models, starting with the Mi Band 6 and 7, as well as the Pro version, require the Mi Fitness app.

Once you connect the bracelet to your smartphone and log in, go to the device profile. The algorithm is as follows: open the app, click on the Profile tab (bottom right button), then select My devices, or just click on the image of your bracelet in the list. In the menu that opens, look for Device Information or Device Info.

This section will display the full model name, firmware version and MAC-For example, you can see the inscription Mi Smart Band 6. NFC Mi Band 5 is the official name that the manufacturer uses to refer to a specific modification, and it often includes the serial number that you may need when you contact a service center.

Using the menu of the device itself

You don't always have a smartphone with an app installed, but you can find out the model right on the tracker screen. The interfaces of different versions of MIUI for Wear may differ, but the logic remains the same. You need to unlock the screen and find the settings menu, which is usually indicated by a gear.

Inside the settings menu, you'll find "About," "System," or "About," and in some versions of the firmware, that information is hidden under "Device Info," and if you go there, you'll see the model name, the software version, and sometimes you'll see the name of the model. MAC-On older models such as the Mi Band 2 or 3, the menu could be more limited and the model name might not be clearly displayed, whereas in the Mi Band 6 and later, this information is clearly presented.

If the menu only says "Mi Band" without a number, note the number of dials and features available. SpO2 (Measuring blood oxygen automatically indicates that you have a model no older than Version 5 (in global firmware). GPS (without the need for a phone) is typical for Pro or 7 Pro versions.

Navigation on the menu is done by swiping or touching the touch zone (depending on the model). Be careful: on fully touch screens (Mi Band 5+), swipes work in all directions, while on models with a button (Mi Band 2-4) navigation is tied to taps and swipes only on the screen.

Differences between NFC and Global Versions

One of the most common problems is the confusion between the NFC module versions and the regular (Global) versions, which can be visually identical, especially in the case of the Mi Band 3 NFC, 4 NFC and 5 NFC. The difference lies in the availability of a contactless payment chip and subway access, which operates predominantly in China and some other countries.

How do you know if you have NFC? The easiest way is to look at the app. The profile or bracelet settings section should have either "NFC" or "Mi Pay." If you don't have one even after you upgraded your firmware, you have the normal version. Also on the back of the capsule, the NFC version sometimes (but not always) has an additional marking or a payment system logo.

⚠️ Note: Buying the Chinese version NFC-The cards of Russian or European banks will not be added to Mi Pay, and the functionality will remain stripped. NFC-modification.

💡

When buying a bundle (strap) + always check that the capsule conforms to the stated model. Unscrupulous sellers can put the capsule from the normal version in the box from the box. NFC-version.

Comparison of technical specifications for accurate identification

If visual methods and codes don’t give 100% certainty, look at specifications. Each generation of Xiaomi trackers has a unique set of sensors and autonomy parameters. Comparing these parameters with the actual behavior of your device will help narrow the search.

The key is battery capacity and declared battery life. Mi Band 3 holds a charge of about 20 days, Mi Band 4 holds up to 20 days, and Mi Band 6 with SpO2 enabled monitoring for about 14 days. Also an important difference is the type of charging: older models (1S, 2) had contacts on the capsule itself that had to be removed from the strap. Starting with Mi Band 3, a magnetic charger is used that can be connected without removing the tracker from the silicone.

The presence of certain features is also a marker. For example, automatic 6 sports identification appeared in the Mi Band 3, and stress measurement and PAI (Personal Activity Intelligence) in the Mi Band 4 and later. If your tracker can build a route map without a phone (built-in GPS), this is exactly the Pro version.

Below is a table of the main differences that help in differentiation:

💡

Having a magnetic charger that doesn’t need to be removed from the strap ensures that your model is no older than the Mi Band 3.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)