How to change the strap on Xiaomi smart watches

Changing the strap on the Xiaomi Mi Band tracker is not just a way to update the appearance of the gadget, but also a necessary procedure to maintain hygiene and comfort of wearing. Over time, silicone wears out, loses elasticity and can cause skin irritation, so possessing the skill of quickly replacing the strap system becomes critical for each owner. Modern models of fitness bracelets from the Chinese giant are designed so that the user can change accessories without using complex tools.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the mechanics of mounting different versions of devices, from the classic Mi Band 4-6 to more complex designs with metal elements, learn how to avoid common mistakes that lead to breakage of the capsule ears, and how to choose the right compatible accessory among the thousands of options on the market.

Self-replacement saves time on trips to the service center and allows you to experiment with style depending on the situation. Whether it is a sports training session, a business meeting or a party, the right strap emphasizes the status and mood of the owner.

Design features and types of fastenings

Before you start dismantling an old strap, you need to clearly understand what design you are dealing with. Xiaomi devices have evolved in recent years from simple insert capsules to complex systems with rotary mechanisms. Most popular models, such as the Mi Band 4, 5 and 6, use a classic system, where the tracker is an oblong capsule that is removed from the silicone base.

But newer models, including the Mi Band 7, 8 and 9, have moved to a fundamentally different mounting scheme, where the capsule has special grooves or a rotary mechanism that requires careful handling, and understanding the type of device you have is the first and most important step to prevent mechanical damage from mishandling.

There are three main types of connections found in Xiaomi’s lineup:

• 🔹 Classic Removable: The capsule is simply pushed out of the silicone base (characteristic of the Mi Band) 1-6).
• 🔹 Rotating: The capsule rotates 90 degrees and is removed from the groove (characteristic of the Mi Band 7, 8).
• 🔹 Pin-based: Used in metal bracelets and third-party accessories where the capsule is fastened with screws or spring pins.

It is important to note that universal straps that fit all models at once are virtually non-existent due to differences in capsule geometry. For example, the Mi Band 6 tracker will not physically fit into the mount for the Mi Band 8 due to the different shapes and sizes of the body. Always check the labeling on the accessory package before buying.

Instructions: How to remove the old strap

The dismantling process depends on the model of your device, but it requires certain safety rules. If you have a model up to and including the 6th generation, you do not need to unscrew or turn anything, just press your finger on one side of the capsule (usually the lower part where the pulse sensor is located) and push it out of the silicone bed.

For newer models, the algorithm changes. In the case of the Mi Band 7 and Mi Band 8, you need to find a hidden fixing mechanism. On the back of the capsule or in the end, there is often a small notch or lever, pressing on it allows you to release the capsule, after which it must be carefully rotated or pulled.

⚠️ Warning: Never use metal objects (knives, screwdrivers, needles) to tweak a silicone capsule.A sharp edge can easily cut through a soft material or, worse, damage the moisture-retardant membrane and tracker screen, resulting in loss of warranty.

If you use a metal bracelet or a third-party screw-mounted accessory, you'll need a miniature screwdriver. Usually, a tool comes with such straps. Unscrew the screws slowly, holding the capsule so that it doesn't fall on a hard floor. Small screws are easily lost, so do the procedure over a table or soft surface.

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

Once the tracker has been successfully removed, you can start installing a new accessory, which is simple, but requires care so that you don't damage the charging contacts or the sensors, and you can insert the capsule into the new box, keeping the orientation: the screen should look up and the pulse sensor should look down to the wrist.

For models with a rotary mechanism (Mi Band 7/8), insert the capsule into the groove at a 90 degree angle, and then smoothly rotate it until the characteristic click. You should feel that the mechanism is fixed. Do not put excessive effort: if the capsule does not stand in place, check the correct angle of rotation and no obstacles in the form of dust or pile.

When using bracelets with pins:

• 🔸 Combine the holes in the ears of the strap with holes in the capsule body.
• 🔸 Put a spring pin (or screw) in one of the holes.
• 🔸 Carefully press the second side and fix the pin on the other side.
• 🔸 Pull the strap to the sides to make sure the fixation is reliable.

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Lubricate silicone with a drop of baby oil or talc if the new strap is too tight, which will make it easier to put on and reduce friction on the skin.

Once installed, make sure to check the sensors, put your finger on the pulse sensor and start the measurement. If the readings do not appear or are intermittent, it may be that the capsule has turned crooked and the sensor is blocked by the strap material, in which case the installation procedure should be repeated.

Comparative table of model compatibility

Many users are confused about the compatibility of accessories, because visually the models may seem similar. However, even a minimal change in size of 1-2 millimeters makes the strap from another model unusable.

As you can see from the table, the most compatible models are the 4, 5 and 6 group, which means you can buy one set of straps and use it for several years, changing only the trackers themselves. For Mi Band 8 and newer owners, the situation is made easier by the introduction of a standardized fast mount, similar to those used in some smart watches.

Pay attention to the thickness of the strap. Even if the capsule enters the slots, too thick material can interfere with the charger. Xiaomi’s charging is often done through contacts on the bottom edge, and a massive bracelet can block the access of the magnetic cable.

Material choice: silicone, leather or metal?

The accessories market offers dozens of options, and the choice depends on your habits and lifestyle. Silicon remains the king of sports tracking due to its moisture resistance and hypoallergenicity, it is easy to wash under the tap and quickly dry, which is critical for those who swim or sweat during training.

Leather straps look more elegant and suited to office style or meetings. However, real leather is afraid of water and sweat: it can absorb smells, deform and lose color. If you choose skin, make sure that the interior of the skin contact is made of hypoallergenic material or has a perforation for ventilation.

Metal bracelets ("Milan weave" or jingle bracelets) add weight and status to the device. They are durable, but can be cold in winter and difficult to sleep. In addition, metal conducts ambient temperatures, which can be uncomfortable. For everyday wear, composite materials or high-quality silicone with a texture that mimics fabric are often the best option.

⚠️ Note: Cheap metal alloys may contain nickel, which in some people causes a severe allergic reaction (contact dermatitis).When buying metal accessories, look for the label "Hypoallergenic" or «316L Stainless Steel».

Strap care and extension of service life

To keep the new accessory in good shape, it needs to be properly cared for, and silicone has the ability to store static electricity and attract dust, and absorb skin fat, and regular cleaning is a key to odorlessness and irritation.

Remove the strap and wipe it with a soft cloth slightly soaked in soapy solution at least once a week. If you've been sweating or swimming in the pool, rinse the device with fresh water immediately after use. Chlorine and salt can break down the polymer's structure, making it sticky or brittle.

Basic rules of care:

• ☀️ Avoid direct sunlight when drying: ultraviolet light accelerates rubber aging and dye fading.
• 🧴 Do not use aggressive chemicals (alcohol, acetone, solvents) to clean colored straps – they can erase the pattern.
• 💤 Let your skin “breathe”: remove the tracker overnight or at least an hour a day to prevent diaper sprouting.

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Regular dry cleaning of charging contacts and the inner surface of the strap prolongs the life of the device and prevents allergies.

If you notice that the silicone has become sticky, wipe it with an alcohol napkin (carefully, without touching the screen), or use a special spray to care for rubber. In case of cracks or tears in the places of bending, it is better to replace the strap, since bacteria begin to multiply actively in microcracks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)