Why Xiaomi Electronic Scales Show Wrong Weight and How to Fix It
Xiaomiβs electronic scales are some of the most popular smart gadgets for the home, but even they eventually begin to βlie.β Problems with accuracy arise from sensor failures, mechanical damage, battery discharge or improper operation. For example, the Mi Smart Scale 2 scales can show an overweight of 0.5-1 kg, and the Mi Body Composition Scale can give an Err or Lo error every time you weigh. In 80% of cases, simple calibration solves the problem, but it is important to do it correctly so as not to aggravate the situation.
In this article, you will find step-by-step instructions for all Xiaomi scales (including Mi Scale, Mi Smart Scale 2 and Mi Body Composition Scale), as well as ways to diagnose malfunctions. We will discuss how to lose weights to factory settings, calibrate sensors manually and what to do if calibration does not help.
When calibration is needed: signs and causes of failures
Take your time to calibrate the scales at the slightest discrepancy in readings. The normal error for Xiaomi electronic scales is Β± 0.1 kg. If the difference is greater, check these points first:
- π Libras start to "glutch" at voltages below 2.7 V. Use only alkaline batteries. AAA (chargeless!).
- ποΈ Uneven surface, even a slight slope of 2-3Β° Check the level or the leveling app on your smartphone.
- π§² External interference: Electromagnetic fields from routers, microwaves, or wireless charging can knock down sensors. Try weighing yourself elsewhere.
- π§ If the scales were stored on a balcony or in a cold room, let them warm up for 1-2 hours at room temperature.
If the scales are lying after checking these points, start calibrating. Note that the Mi Body Composition Scale models require calibration more often because of the complex sensor system. But the Mi Smart Scale 2 is usually enough to reset to factory settings.
Calibration Preparation: What to Do in Advance
Incorrect preparation is the main reason why calibration fails. Follow this checklist to avoid errors:
Set the scales on a flat solid surface (tiles, laminate, countertop)
Make sure the batteries are new (voltage β₯ 3.0V)
Clean the sensor contacts with a dry cloth (no alcohol!)
Remove all saved profiles from the scales memory (via the Mi Fit app)
Turn off and turn on the scales again (press the button for 5 seconds)
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Pay special attention to surfaces. Soft coatings (carpet, linoleum) absorb sensor vibrations, which causes the scales to show the wrong weight. The ideal option is a ceramic tiles or a glass countertop. If this is not possible, put a thin, rigid stand under the scales (for example, a plastic container cover).
Also check the firmware version in the Mi Fit app. Outdated software can cause sensor malfunctions. Update the scales through the Profile menu β My devices β [Name of scales] β Update the firmware.
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If Xiaomi scales show a Lo error, it means low battery power. Don't try to calibrate the device in this state - first replace the batteries with new ones (preferably Duracell or Energizer).
Step-by-step: how to calibrate the scales Xiaomi
The way you calibrate depends on the scale model, and below is a universal instruction that works for most Xiaomi devices, including the Mi Smart Scale 2 and Mi Body Composition Scale.
Method 1: Automatic calibration via the Mi Fit app
This is the easiest way, but it only works if the scales are connected to the smartphone and synchronized with the app.
- Open the Mi Fit app and go to Profile β My Devices section.
- Choose your scales from the list.
- Slip on three dots in the upper right corner and select Device Settings.
- Find Calibration or Reset accuracy (in newer versions of the application it may be called Zero readings).
- Follow the instructions on the screen. You usually have to stand on the scale and wait 5-10 seconds for the process to proceed.
If you don't have Calibration on the menu, your model doesn't support software configuration, in which case use the manual method (described below).
Method 2: Manual calibration with weights (for power users)
This method requires accurate weights or objects with known weights.
- ποΈ Sports weights (1 kg, 2 kg, 5 kg).
- π¦ Bottles of water (1 litre) = 1 kg).
- π Packages of cereals / sugar (weight is indicated on the package).
Algorithm of action:
- Turn on the scales (press the button or step on the platform).
- Wait for zeros (0.0) to appear on the display.
- Put a weight of a known weight (for example, 2 kg) on the scale.
- If the readings differ by more than Β±0.1 kg, press and hold the switch on 10-15 seconds until the scales squeak and reset.
- Repeat weighing the weights. If the error remains, repeat step 4 another 2-3 times.
For models with body composition analysis (Mi Body Composition Scale), manual calibration may not work due to a complex system of sensors, in which case only resetting to factory settings will help (instruction in the next section).
What to do if Xiaomi scales show an Err 2 error?
Resetting Xiaomi weights to factory settings
If calibration doesn't work, try a full reset, which will delete all the stored data (user profiles, weighing history), but often solves accuracy problems.
Instructions for most models:
- Turn off the scales (press the button for 5 seconds).
- Remove the batteries for 1 minute.
- Put the batteries back in.
- Turn on the scales and immediately press the button 4 times in a row (with an interval of ~1 second).
- Wait for the sound signal and appear on the 0.0 display.
For the Mi Body Composition Scale, the process is slightly different:
- Hold the switch on for 10 seconds until the indicator lights up.
- Release the button and press it once.
- The scales squeak and reset - this means that the reset was successful.
After resetting, you will have to reconnect the scales to the Mi Fit app and adjust user profiles, and if that doesnβt work, check the scales for mechanical damage (cracks on sensors, contact oxidation).
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Resetting to factory settings is a last resort. Before you do, be sure to try automatic calibration via Mi Fit and manual tuning with weights.
Table: Common Xiaomi weight errors and their solution
| Display error | Reason. | How to fix it |
|---|---|---|
| Lo | Low battery charge | Replace your batteries with new (alkaline AAA) batteries |
| Err or Err 1 | Sensor overload (weight > 150 kg) | Remove the load, turn the scales on again. |
| Err 2 | Failure after battery replacement | Reset the scales (see instructions above) |
| --- (flashing) | Unstable connection to sensors | Check contacts, clean sensors with a dry cloth |
| CAL | Calibration required | Conduct manual calibration with a weight of 5 kg |
If your weight model shows another error not listed in the table, check its value in the manual or on the official Xiaomi website. For example, the Mi Body Composition Scale can give Err 3 if the bioimpedance sensors are damaged - this requires repair in the service center.
What to do if calibration does not help: diagnostics of malfunctions
If after all the manipulations the scales are still lying, the problem may be:
- π§ Check if the sensors are cracked or oxidized, and if one of the sensors is damaged, the scales will show an underweight.
- π Carefully clean the contacts of batteries and sensors with a cotton swab soaked in isopropyl alcohol (do not use water!).
- π± Failure in the Mi Fit app.Reinstall the app, clear the cache, or try connecting the scales to another smartphone.
- π Battery incompatibility: Some Xiaomi scales don't work well with cheap or rechargeable batteries. Use only alkaline batteries. AAA from proven brands.
If you suspect a mechanical breakdown, try this test:
- Put on the scale an object weighing 1-2 kg (for example, a pack of sugar).
- Carefully press the corners of the platform in turn.
- If the readings change dramatically when you press one of the corners, it means that the sensor in this area is damaged.
In this case, only repair or replacement of the scales. Official service centers Xiaomi rarely do repair of the scales because of their low cost, but you can contact the shops for repair of electronics. The average price of repair of sensors is 800-1,500 rubles.
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Before visiting the service center, take a picture of the checks and the warranty card (if the scales were purchased less than a year ago). Xiaomi sometimes goes to meet and replace the device under warranty, even if the scales are not officially repairable.