Xiaomi Mi Band fitness bracelets have long been one of the most popular wearables due to a combination of functionality, accuracy and affordable price. However, even the highest quality strap wears out over time: cracks appear, elasticity is lost, or you just want to update the appearance of the gadget. Replacing the strap is a procedure that every Mi Band owner sooner or later encounters, but not everyone knows how to do it correctly without damaging the capsule with electronics.
In this article, we will discuss in detail how to change the strap on any Xiaomi fitness bracelet - from the early Mi Band 1/2 models to the current Mi Band 7/8 and Smart Band Pro. You will learn what tools you need, how to avoid typical replacement errors, and which straps are better to choose for different use scenarios. And if you are afraid of damaging the device - do not worry: the replacement process is easier than it seems, and takes no more than 5 minutes.
What are the best bands compatible with Xiaomi Mi Band?
Before you start replacing, it’s important to make sure the new strap fits your bracelet model.All Xiaomi fitness bracelets use a universal mounting mechanism, but there are nuances:
- 🔄 Mi Band 1–6 and Mi Band 7/8 (standard version - compatible with each other. 4 It's good for Mi Band. 6, vice versa.
- ⚠️ Mi Smart Band Pro (Model with a Switch) AMOLED-display) – has a unique mount and is not compatible with straps from other models.
- 💎 Premium straps (metal, leather) often require adapters, such as the Mi Band 6, which sells special adapters for 20 mm wide straps.
If you're buying a non-original strap, pay attention to the width of the mount (the Mi Band has 18-20 mm) and the type of lock. Cheap Chinese counterparts may have a less reliable latch, which eventually unravels.
Tools and preparation for the replacement of the strap
To replace the strap with the Xiaomi Mi Band does not need special skills or expensive tools, in most cases, enough of what is at hand:
- 🔧 Flat screwdriver (or any thin object: knife, plastic card, toothpick).
- 🧲 Magnet (optional, but will help if the spring pops out of the groove).
- 📸 Smartphone – to photograph the process in case you have to collect back.
- 🧴 Alcohol wipes (to clean the capsule contacts if the strap changes due to sweating).
Important: Before replacing, turn off the bracelet disconnect notifications in the Mi Fitness app to avoid false signals. To do this, go to Device Profile → Notifications → Disable communication loss alerts.
☑️ Preparation for the belt replacement
Step-by-step: how to remove the old strap
The strip removal process is the same for all Mi Band models except the Smart Band Pro. Follow the instructions carefully so as not to lose small details:
- Put the bracelet on a flat surface with the display upwards, which will help to avoid scratching on the screen.
- Find on the back of the strap a small recess next to the capsule - this is the spring locker.
- Insert a flat screwdriver into the recess and gently push the strap aside until you hear a click. The spring pops out of the groove.
- Repeat the action for the second side of the strap. Now the capsule should be easily removed.
If the spring is lost and out of the way, don’t panic: you can buy it separately (Mi Band 4-8 – XMSH07FM).
What to do if the spring breaks?
Installation of a new strap: nuances and typical errors
It's easier to install a strap than to remove it, but there are pitfalls.
- Insert the capsule into the groove of the new strap so that the charging contacts look towards the latch.
- Press the spring on the side and wind it into the recess on the strap. It should sound a characteristic click.
- Repeat the action for the second side. Make sure the capsule sits tight and doesn't hang around.
Mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Skewed capsule – if the strap is mounted curved, the charging contacts may not match the docking station.
- ❌ Too tight fixation - if the spring does not click, do not press harder: so you can break the fastening.
- ❌ Ignoring the direction of the strap – on some models (for example, Mi Band 7), the upper and lower parts of the strap have different shapes.
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If the strap is too tight, don’t try to stretch it by force – put the bracelet in warm water (not boiling water!) for 5-10 minutes. Silicone will become more elastic, and it will be easier to wear.
Comparison of straps: which to choose for different tasks
The choice of strap depends on your lifestyle and preferences, and in the table below is a comparison of popular options:
| Band type | Pluses | Cons | Who's right for? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone (original) | Light, waterproof, hypoallergenic | It builds up sweat, cracks over time | Athletes, everyday wear |
| Metal (Milanian weaving) | Stylish look, durable, does not rub the skin | Heavy, can scratch the body. | Office style, business image |
| Leathery | Premium appearance, soft | Fear of water, needs care | Holiday activities, not for sport |
| Tissue (nylon) | Breathing, light, fast drying. | It's dirty, hard to clean. | Active recreation, hiking |
If you often exercise, breathing silicone straps with perforation (for example, from the brand Bontiy) are the best choice, they are inexpensive (from 300 rubles) and prevent skin irritation.
What to do if the strap is not fixed?
Sometimes when you change the strap, it doesn't hold well or the capsule falls out.
- 🔧 The spring didn't hit the groove. → Check if the hole on the strap matches the lock on the capsule. If necessary, apply the spring with a screwdriver.
- 📏 Inappropriate strap size → Make sure the width of the mount is the same (for the Mi Band - 18-20 mm).
- 🧲 Weak magnet in the latch → If the strap is constantly unbuttoned, try replacing the magnet (sold in radio parts stores).
- 🔨 Wearing of grooves on the capsule → In this case, only the replacement of the case will help (cost - from 500 rubles).
⚠️ Warning: If the capsule falls out at the slightest movement, do not use the bracelet until the problem is fixed.
Where to buy a Xiaomi Mi Band Band?
Original and compatible straps are sold in several places:
- 🛒 Official Xiaomi store - a guarantee of quality, but a limited range and high price (from 1000 rubles).
- 🌍 AliExpress, JD.ru - a large selection, low prices (from 200 rubles), but a long wait for delivery.
- 🏬 Electronics stores (Svyaznoy, M. Video, DNS) — You can touch it before buying, but the choices are often limited.
- 🖥️ Marketplaces (Ozon, Wildberries, Yandex Market) – it is convenient to compare prices and read reviews.
When buying, pay attention to the material, the country of manufacture (Chinese straps are cheaper but less durable), and reviews about the strength of the mounting, for example, MoKo straps are often praised for reliability, and Umiwi for design.
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Before buying, check if the strap is suitable for your Mi Band model. For example, the strap for the Mi Band 6 will not work for the Smart Band Pro due to different mountings.