Replacement of the strap on Xiaomi Mi Band 5: instructions with photos and expert tips

The Xiaomi Mi Band 5 fitness bracelet has become one of the most popular activity-tracking gadgets due to its combination of functionality and affordable price. However, the standard silicone strap that comes with the kit wears out over time: it loses color, stretches or even tears. Fortunately, you can replace it yourself - the procedure takes only 5-10 minutes, if you know the nuances of the mount and find the right accessory.

In this article, we will look at all the steps of replacing a strap, from choosing a new accessory to fixing the bracelet module, and focus on common errors that can damage the mounts or the gadget itself, and learn which strap materials are best suited for sports, everyday wear or official activities, and how to properly care for them to prolong their life.

If you’ve never changed the strap on a smartwatch or bracelet before, don’t worry: the Mi Band 5 design provides a simple mounting system without the need for special tools.

Why you might need to replace your band with Mi Band 5

Even the best-quality strap will need to be replaced over time, and here are the main reasons why Xiaomi Mi Band 5 users decide to do this:

• 🔹 Physical wear: Silicone straps lose elasticity, become covered with microcracks or break after 6-12 months of heavy use.
• 🔹 Aesthetic changes: white or light straps turn yellow with sweat, bright colors fade under the influence of ultraviolet light.
• 🔹 Allergic reactions: Some users may experience skin irritation to cheap silicone or low-quality paint.
• 🔹 The desire to change style: metal, leather or fabric straps transform the appearance of the bracelet, making it more versatile.
• 🔹 Wearing Discomfort: A standard strap can rub your wrist during sleep or sports training.

It is important to understand that the mounting of the Mi Band 5 module is compatible only with 18 mm wide straps and a special locking system. Attempting to install an accessory from other models (for example, Mi Band 4 or Honor Band 5) will lead to the fact that the module simply does not lock or will hang.

If you notice that the bracelet began to fall off the arm while moving, this is a sure sign that the strap has stretched and needs to be replaced.

What straps are suitable for Xiaomi Mi Band 5: a review of options

The Mi Band 5 accessories market offers dozens of strap options, varying in material, design and price. To make sure you choose the right ones, consider the most popular types:

When choosing a strap, pay attention to the width of the mount – it should be exactly 18 mm. Also make sure that the latches for the module are included in the set (sometimes they are sold separately). The original straps from Xiaomi are usually more reliable than their counterparts, but also cost more. If the budget is limited, look for certified accessories from proven brands, such as MoKo or UAG.

For athletes, perforated silicone or nylon straps are ideal, because they don't accumulate sweat and dry quickly. For office socks, leather or metal will do, but remember that these materials require careful care.

💡

Before buying a strap, measure the wrist's circumference and choose a size (usually S/M or L). A strap that is too long will hang around and a short strap that will rub the skin.

Preparing for replacement: tools and precautions

Replacing the strap on Xiaomi Mi Band 5 does not require professional skills, but before the procedure should prepare everything you need:

• 🔧 New strap with suitable width (18 mm) and latches.
• 🔧 Flat screwdriver or plastic mediator (for slapping latches).
• 🔧 Soft fabric (to put the bracelet module and not scratch the screen).
• 🔧 Alcohol wipes (to clean the module contacts if the strap changes due to contamination).

Before you start dismantling the old strap, disconnect the bracelet from the Mi Fit app and remove it from the charger. This will prevent accidental button pressing or resetting, and we recommend taking a picture of the current position of the module in the strap, this will help you to properly install it back.

⚠️ Warning: Do not use sharp metal objects (knives, scissors) to remove the strap! This can scratch the body of the module or damage the mounts. If the latch does not respond, moisten it with warm water, the silicone will soften.

If you plan to clean the contacts of the module (for example, due to poor charge), do so carefully, without applying excessive pressure. The contacts are located on the back of the bracelet and easily bend. Use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean.

Turn off the bracelet and disconnect from charging |

Prepare a new strap and tools |

Take a picture of the current position of the module |

Clear contacts (if necessary)-->

Step-by-step: how to remove the old strap from the Mi Band 5

The process of dismantling an old strap consists of a few simple steps, the main thing is to act smoothly, without jerking, so as not to break the plastic latches.

1. Carefully tuck the latch with a flat screwdriver or a mediator, while pulling the strap to the side, a slight click should be heard, which means that the mount is free.

If the latch doesn't lend itself, don't put too much effort into it, maybe it's got a sweat or a dirt streak.

• 🧴 Apply a little silicone lubricant (for example, WD-40) snap-latch.

After removing the module, inspect it for damage. Pay special attention to the charging contacts - they should be clean and smooth. If you notice bent pins, straighten them carefully with the blunt side of the knife.

Installation of a new strap: a step-by-step guide

Now that the old strap is removed, you can start installing a new one, which is even easier than dismantling, but requires precision.

1. Check the direction of the strap. Most accessories have TOP or arrow marks indicating which side up the module should be mounted.
2. Insert the module into the slot of the strap so that the screen looks upwards, make sure that the charging contacts are on the side where there is no latch.
3. Lock the first side: press the module before you click. It should sit tightly in the groove.
4. Hold the other side by snapping the plastic locker, and if you have a metal strap, just put it in the grooves and tighten it.

After installation, check the reliability of the attachment:

• 🔄 Pull the module in different directions - it should not hang around.
• 🕒 Put the bracelet on your hand and move your wrist – if the strap does not fall off, everything is fine.
• ⚡ Connect the bracelet to charging – if the contacts touch tightly, charging will begin immediately.

⚠️ Warning: If the bracelet fails to charge after installing the new strap, check if the contacts are contaminated. Sometimes dust or fat from the hands interfere with the normal connection.

If you have installed a strap made of another material (for example, leather instead of silicone), the first couple of days, do not wear it around the clock, this will help you get used to new sensations and avoid skin irritation.

💡

When installing a metal strap, use a screwdriver to tighten the screws - manual fixation may not be reliable enough.

Frequent mistakes when replacing a strap and how to avoid them

Even a simple procedure like changing a strap can go wrong, unless you take into account some nuances, and here are the most common mistakes and ways to prevent them:

• 🔴 Use of incompatible accessories: straps from Mi Band 4 or other brands will not fit in width. Always check the 18mm marking.

Another common problem is that the bracelet starts to turn on or off arbitrarily after the strap is changed, and that's because the module doesn't sit tightly in the slots and hits the button when you're moving, and the solution is simple: remove the strap and reset the module, making sure it's fixed before you click.

If you buy a fast-removable strap (like a magnet strap), be prepared for the fact that it is less reliable than the standard one. These accessories are convenient for frequent change of style, but not suitable for an active lifestyle - the module can fall out when you move sharply.

Care for a strap: how to extend its service life

To make the new strap last as long as possible, just follow a few simple rules of care, which differ depending on the material:

For all types of straps, there are general rules:

• 🚿 Remove the bracelet in front of the shower or pool if the strap is not water resistant (e.g. leather).Even if the Mi Band 5 module has 5 protection. ATM, The material of the accessory may deteriorate.
• 🧴 Avoid contact with creams and perfumes – chemicals destroy silicone and skin.
• 🔥 Do not leave the bracelet in direct sunlight (such as on the dashboard of the car.

If you exercise, wipe the strap with an antibacterial wipe after exercise. Not only does sweat and dirt damage your appearance, but it can irritate your skin. Silicone straps can be treated with silicone lubrication once a month to prevent cracking.

💡

Store spare straps in a sealed bag with silica gel (moisture-absorbing bag) - this will protect them from dust and moisture.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions About Replacing the Mi Band 5