The Xiaomi Mi Band 6 fitness bracelet has become one of the most popular activity tracking gadgets due to its combination of functionality and affordable price. However, even the highest-quality device requires maintenance - and a replacement strap may be needed due to physical wear (cracking, loss of color) and to change style. Unlike previous models, the Mi Band 6 received an updated capsule attachment mechanism, which prompted users to questions: "How to remove the old strap?", "Will Band Mi 5 straps work?" or "Can I use a metal bracelet?".
In this article, you will find step-by-step instructions with the photo, comparison of compatible straps (including third-party brands), as well as common errors that lead to latch breakage or body damage, and we will also discuss how to avoid creaking a new strap and extend its life.
If you've never changed your strap on a smartwatch or fitness bracelet, don't worry: the process takes less than 5 minutes and requires no special skills. The main thing is to act carefully and use the right tools (or do without them if there is nothing at hand), and for those who want to save money, we have prepared a list of proven sellers with non-original straps that are not inferior in quality to the branded ones.
Comfortable bands: what are the best for Mi Band 6?
The first thing to know is that the Xiaomi Mi Band 6 is not compatible with the bands of previous models (Mi Band 4/5) due to the modified capsule mounting. The manufacturer used a new locking mechanism with recessed buttons instead of protruding latches, which made the design more reliable, but also less versatile.
But that doesn’t mean you’ll only have to buy original accessories, as there are three types of bands available for the Mi Band 6:
Important: If you choose a metal bracelet, make sure that the Mi Band 6 adapter is included – without it, the capsule simply will not lock. Also note the width of the strap: the standard size for this model is 18 mm (as opposed to 20 mm in some smart watches).
| Band type | Compatible with Mi Band 6 | Pluses | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| The original silicone. | ✅ Complete. | Hypoallergenic, waterproof, accurate fastening | High price, limited choice of flowers |
| Compatible TPU (Third Party Brands) | ✅ Partial (check reviews) | Low price, variety of designs | They can be more or less powerful than the original. |
| Metal bracelet | ⚠️ Requires an adapter | Stylish look, durability | Harder, can rub, no water resistance |
| Leather strap | ⚠️ Requires an adapter | Premium appearance | Fear of water, stretches over time |
⚠️ If you are buying a Mi Band 6 band, please note. NFC, Make sure it doesn't block the contactless payment chip.Some metal bracelets can shield the signal, causing Mi Pay to stop working.
Preparing for replacement: tools and precautions
To replace the strap on the Xiaomi Mi Band 6, you won’t need screwdrivers or other sophisticated tools, but there are a few nuances that will help you avoid damaging latches or scratches on the body:
- 🔧 Plastic shoulder blade or mediator - will help to gently fit the strap if it sits tight!
- 🧴 Alcohol wipes – to clean the capsule contacts from dust or sweat (especially if the strap has not been removed for more than a year).
- 📏 Line or bar – useful if you buy a third-party brand strap and want to check its width (should be exactly 18 mm).
Before starting work, disconnect the bracelet from the charger and make sure that it does not have active processes (for example, synchronization with Mi Fit). If the capsule is wet (after shower or pool), dry it for 10-15 minutes - moisture can get inside when removing the strap.
⚠️ Attention: Don't use excessive force when you press the mount buttons! In the Mi Band 6, they're recessed in the body, and if you push too hard, you can break the plastic lock inside the capsule. Optimum force is like pressing the knob button.
The new strap is compatible with the Mi Band 6 (18mm wide)
Capsule dry and disconnected from charging
There is a plastic spatula on hand (in case the strap jams)
The current position of the strap is photographed (so as not to confuse the sides)-->
Step-by-step: how to remove the old strap
The process of removing the strap on the Mi Band 6 is different from previous models. There are no protruding buttons, instead, recessed latches that need to be pressed simultaneously. Here's how to do it correctly:
- Put the bracelet on a flat surface with the screen upwards, which will help to avoid accidentally pressing touch buttons.
- Take the strap at the base of the capsule with your thumb and index fingers. Press both buttons of the lock (they are located on the sides of the capsule, under the strap) and pull the strap away from the body.
- If the strap doesn't lend itself, take a plastic spatula and gently tuck it on the side while pressing the buttons. Don't use a knife or scissors, it will cause scratches on the body!
- Repeat the action for the second side of the strap. Now the capsule should be easily removed.
If one of the latches is jammed, don't try to pull the strap out by force.
- 🔄 Turn the bracelet over and try to press the buttons from the other side.
- 💧 Apply a drop of isopropyl alcohol to the place of attachment - this will help dissolve possible sweat deposits.
- ⏳ Wait 5-10 minutes and try again.
⚠️ Note: If after removing the strap you notice that one of the buttons of the retainer fell inside the case, do not try to get it yourself. This is a sign of a breakdown of the mechanism - in this case, contact the Xiaomi service center.
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If the strap sits too tight, warm it up with a hair dryer (temperature to 50°C) for 10-15 seconds. Silicone will become more elastic, and it will be easier to remove it.
Installation of a new strap: Step-by-step with a photo
Installing a new strap is easier than removing the old one, but it also has its own nuances. The main rule is: do not confuse the sides - the strap has TOP (top) and BOTTOM (bottom) labels that should match the position of the capsule.
- Take a new strap and find slots on it to fix (usually closer to the ends) and insert the capsule into the strap so that the screen looks upwards.
- Carefully press the capsule until the characteristic click, which means that the latches have fallen into place, and make sure that the strap sits symmetrically and is not skewed.
- Check the mounting strength: pull the strap to the sides. If the capsule doesn't move, it's done right.
If you are installing a metal or leather strap, first attach the capsule to a plastic adapter (it comes with a kit), and then insert the adapter into the bracelet. Make sure the adapter sits tightly - otherwise the capsule may fall out when active movements.
⚠️ Warning: After you install the new strap, check the touch buttons. If the screen doesn't respond to touch, it means that the strap is too tightly tight and presses on the body.
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When buying a strap, pay attention to the "For Mi Band 6" tags - even if it looks like a model for the Mi Band 5, the mount will be different!
What to do if the strap creaks or rubs?
New straps (especially those made of cheap silicone) often make a nasty creak when moving, which is due to friction between surfaces and usually takes 1-2 days to wear, but if the creak doesn't disappear or the strap rubs the skin, try these methods:
- 🧼 Wash the strap with warm water and soap, and it will remove the factory lubricant that sometimes causes creaking. After washing, dry it with a paper towel.
- 🌿 Apply talc or baby powder on the inside of the strap, which will reduce friction and prevent sweating.
- 🛢️ Use silicone lubricant (sold in auto parts stores) and apply it in a thin layer to the contact of the strap with the capsule.
- ❄️ Place the strap in the freezer for 1-2 hours – this will make silicone softer and more elastic.
If the strap rubs the wrist, check:
- 🔄 Is it right to wear it (not twisted).
- 📏 Is the size of your wrist the same (straps are 110-220 mm long).
- 🧴 Are there any allergies to the material (especially important for cheap straps made of unknown alloys).
How to distinguish the original Xiaomi strap from a fake
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even a simple procedure like changing a strap can go wrong unless you take a few key things into account.-5 User errors and ways to prevent them:
| Mistake. | Effects of consequences | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Pressing the lock buttons too hard | Breakdown of the plastic mechanism inside the capsule | Press smoothly, no jerks |
| Use of metal objects to remove the strap | Scratches on the body, damage to sealing rubbers | Use a plastic spatula or mediator |
| Installation of the strap on the wrong side (TOP/BOTTOM) | Inconvenient position of the screen, rapid wear of fasteners | Check the marks on the strap before installation |
| Getting moisture into the capsule when replacing the strap | Corrosion of contacts, sensor errors | Dry the bracelet before disassembling |
| Buying a strap without a width check (not 18mm) | The strap is not fixed or dangling | Always check compatibility with Mi Band 6 |
Another common problem is that the capsule doesn't fit into the new strap, and this can happen for two reasons:
- You bought a band for another model (for example, Mi Band 5).
- The bracelets inside the capsule are worn out (relevant for bracelets older than 2 years).
In the first case, you just need to return the strap and order the right one. In the second case, you need to change the capsule (call the service center or buy a new one on AliExpress).
Where to buy a band for Mi Band 6: verified sellers
The original Xiaomi straps can be bought in official stores (Mi Store, Svyaznoy, M. Video), but their range is often limited to basic colors. If you are looking for something non-standard (for example, camouflage, transparent or fluorescent strap), pay attention to these sites:
- 🌍 AliExpress is the biggest choice, but delivery can take up to a month.Recommended sellers: Mi Band Store Official (original and licensed straps), Amzdeal Official Store (quality compatible accessories) Yocan Tech (metal and leather bracelets with adapters)
- 🛒 Ozon/Wildberries — quick-delivery (1–3 - but prices are higher than on AliExpress. 4.8.
- 🏬 Local accessories stores – suitable if you need a strap urgently. Before buying, check compatibility (ask if the Mi Band 6 is suitable for you).
Average prices for straps (August 2026):
- 🔹 Silicone Original: 300–600 ₽
- 🔹 Compatible TPU: 150–350 ₽
- 🔹 Metal bracelet with adapter: 800-1500 ₽
- 🔹 Leather strap: 600–1200 ₽
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Before buying a strap on AliExpress, check the reviews with the photo - some sellers post images of the original straps, and send cheap fakes.