Replacing the strap on Xiaomi smartwatches is a challenge that every owner faces sooner or later. Whether you want to update the design, pick up an accessory to a new image or just replace a worn strap, the process requires accuracy and knowledge of nuances. In this article, we will analyze all the steps from choosing the right strap to properly dismantling and installing so that you can do everything yourself without risking damage to the device.
Xiaomi watches (whether Mi Band, Watch S1/S2/S3 or Redmi Watch) are different in their strap attachment mechanisms. Some models use standard spring pins, others use branded latches or even magnetic connections. We will take a detailed look at each type, and we will also give recommendations on the choice of materials (silicone, leather, metal) depending on your lifestyle. If you have never done this before, don’t worry: our step-by-step instructions with visual tips will help to avoid errors.
What straps are suitable for Xiaomi watches: types and compatibility
Before you start replacing, it’s important to understand which strap is compatible with your watch model. Xiaomi has several product lines, and the mounts are different:
- 🔹 Mi Band (all generations): use standard 18mm wide straps with spring pins. Suitable universal silicone, fabric or leather straps with similar fastening.
- 🔹 Xiaomi Watch S1/S2/S3: They have a proprietary fast-removal mount, and you need Xiaomi Watch-labeled straps or universal adapters.
- 🔹 Redmi Watch 2/3: strap 20 mm with spring pins, but the length may differ from the Mi Band.
- 🔹 Xiaomi Watch Color: compatible with 22 mm wide straps, but the mount can be both spring-loaded and latched, depending on the version.
Note that even if the width of the strap is suitable, the length can vary. For example, the straps for the Mi Band 6 and Mi Band 7 are visually similar, but the length of the latter is slightly longer. Always check the compatibility of the watch model on the manufacturer's website or from the seller.
The material of the strap also plays a key role:
- 🧴 Silicone: Lightweight, water resistant, ideal for sports, but can cause sweating.
- 🐄 Skin: presentable appearance, but afraid of moisture and requires care.
- 🔗 Metal (Milanian weaving): durable, but heavier and can rub the wrist.
- 🧵 Fabric: Breathable material, but quickly gets dirty and worn out.
Tools for replacing the strap: what you need
For most Xiaomi models, a minimal set of tools is enough, but some mounts require special devices.
| Tool. | Appointment | For which models? |
|---|---|---|
| Flat screwdriver (or knife) | Fake-up of a spring pin | Mi Band, Redmi Watch |
| Special strap-removal | Safe extraction of the pin without scratches | All models. |
| Tweezers | Retention of small parts (pins, latch) | Xiaomi Watch S1/S2 |
| Lupe or flashlight | Lighting of small anchorages | All models. |
| Spare spring pins | Replacement of lost or broken | Mi Band, Redmi Watch |
If you don't have a filmmaker, you can do with the tools you can use, but it's important to be careful. For example, using a knife instead of a screwdriver can scratch the watch body or damage the strap. For models with latches (for example, the Xiaomi Watch S2), tools may not be necessary at all - there is a mechanism for quick removal.
⚠️ Warning: Never use pliers to remove spring pins! this can deform the mount and make it unusable for further use.If the pin is stuck, try dripping some silicone lubricant or alcohol to make it easier to slip.
Step-by-step: how to remove the old strap
The process of dismantling depends on the type of attachment, and below we will discuss two of the most common options: spring pins (for the Mi Band and Redmi Watch) and quick-removal latches (for the Xiaomi Watch S1/S2).
1. Dismounting of the spring-pin strap
This type of mount is used in most Xiaomi fitness bracelets. Here's how to remove the strap correctly:
- Place the watch on a flat surface with the screen down so as not to scratch the display.
- Find on the back of the strap a small indentation - there is a spring pin.
- Insert the tip of the screwdriver or the removable in the recess and gently press away from the clock, at the same time pull the strap in the opposite direction.
- Repeat the action for the second side.
If the pin doesn't lend itself, don't put too much effort into it, it may be rusted or contaminated.
Clean the mount with alcohol | Try to swing the pin from side to side |Use the receiver with a thinner tip |High the strap with a hairdryer (not higher than 50°C) to expand the material-->
Dismounting of the fast-removal latch strap
Xiaomi Watch S1/S2 models are equipped with convenient latches that allow you to replace the strap in seconds:
- Turn the clock over and find a small button or lever on the back of the strap.
- Press the button and pull the strap aside. It should be easy to separate.
- Repeat the action for the second side.
If the latch doesn't work, make sure there's dirt inside, sometimes just blow the mount with compressed air or rub it with alcohol.
💡
Before removing the strap, take a picture of its position on the watch – this will help to correctly install the new one, especially if it is asymmetrical (for example, with a metal buckle).
Installation of a new strap: nuances and errors
It's usually easier to install a strap than to remove it, but there are some subtleties to it, and let's look at the process for each type of mount.
1. Installation of a spring-pin strap
Follow these steps:
- Insert the end of the strap into the groove on the watch body so that the hole for the pin coincides with the mounting.
- Insert a spring pin into the hole and gently press until you click. Make sure it's fully in and doesn't fall out.
- Repeat for the other side.
A common mistake is to incompletely fix the pin, if it doesn't click, the strap may slip off when you wear it, and check the mounting strength by pulling the strap to the sides.
Installation of the latch strap
For the Xiaomi Watch S1/S2 models:
- Combine the end of the strap with the groove on the clock.
- Then, with a light tap, insert it until the snap of the latch.
- Make sure the lock button is back in its original position.
If the strap is not fixed, check if it is skewed, sometimes a little swaying from side to side during installation helps.
⚠️ Warning: When installing metal straps (such as Milanese weaving), make sure that the links do not scratch the watch body. Use a protective film or soft fabric between the strap and the watch during installation.
Frequent problems and their solutions
Even if you replace them carefully, there can be difficulties, and let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The strap is not fixed. | The spring pin didn't come in completely. | Check the click, use the removable to pre-install |
| The latch doesn't work. | Dirt or deformation of the machinery | Clean with alcohol, lubricate with silicone lubricant |
| The strap rubs against the skin | Wrong length or material | Adjust the length, replace it with a softer material |
| The pin falls out | Wear or inappropriate size of the pin | Replace the pin with a new one, check compatibility |
If the wrist is less comfortable after the strap has been replaced, it may be the wrong length of the wrist. Many straps (especially silicone straps) have multiple openings to adjust. Choose the optimal position so that the watch doesn't hang around, but doesn't override the hand.
What to do if a spring pin is lost?
How to care for a strap so it lasts longer
The life of the strap depends not only on the quality of the material, but also on the maintenance. Here are some tips to help keep it in good condition:
- 💦 Silicone straps: wash with warm water and soap 1-2 times a week. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun - it makes silicone brittle.
- 🧼 Leather straps: wipe with a wet cloth, use special skin creams. Do not wear in the rain or in the pool.
- 🔩 Metal straps: brush with a toothbrush with toothpaste to remove dirt between the links.
- 🧺 Cloth straps: wash by hand in cool water, dry in straightened form. Do not use bleach.
If you are actively involved in sports, it is recommended to have two straps: silicone for training and leather or metal for everyday wear.
Also, pay attention to fasteners: from time to time, check the reliability of spring pins or latches. If you notice a backlash, it is better to immediately replace the strap or mount so as not to lose the watch.
Where to buy high-quality straps for Xiaomi
When choosing a new strap, it is important to pay attention not only to the design, but also to the quality of materials and compatibility.
- 🛒 Xiaomi Store: Compatibility guaranteed, but limited design choices.
- 🌍 AliExpress: huge range, but quality can vary.Read reviews and see seller ratings.
- 🏬 Local electronics stores (for example, “Svyaznoy”, “M. Video”): you can touch the strap before buying, but the prices are higher.
- 🖥️ Specialized online stores (e.g. Mi-Shop.ru, Xiaomi-Today): there are often exclusive models.
When buying, pay attention to:
- 📏 Exact width of the strap (18 mm, 20 mm, 22 mm, etc.).
- 🔧 Type of fastening (spring pin, latch, magnet).
- 📌 The material and its hypoallergenicity (especially important for skin and metal).
- ⭐ Customer reviews – they often contain photos of real goods.
The cost of straps varies from 200 rubles (silicone) to 3000 rubles (premium leather or metal).Do not chase the lowest price - cheap straps are often made of low-quality materials that quickly crack or cause skin irritation.
💡
Before buying a strap on AliExpress, always check with the seller the compatibility with your watch model – even if the description says “for Xiaomi”, the mounts may differ.