Xiaomi styluses have become an integral part of the brand’s ecosystem, especially since the launch of the Mi Pad and active pen smartphones, which transform a touchscreen into a full-fledged tool for drawing, writing notes, or controlling the interface precisely. But how does Xiaomi’s stylus work? What technologies are behind it, and why is it more accurate than a finger or a passive pen?
In this article, we will discuss how Xiaomi stylus works at the physical and software level, consider their compatibility with the brand’s devices, and give practical recommendations for setting up and eliminating typical problems.
If you’re just planning a purchase or have already encountered difficulties in using it, here you’ll find answers to questions that are rarely covered in standard instructions, such as why Xiaomi’s stutters sometimes when drawing, how to calibrate it for maximum accuracy, and whether it can be used with devices from other brands.
The technology behind Xiaomi stylus
Xiaomi styluses are classified as active feathers with EMR (Electro-Magnetic Resonance) or AES (Active Electrostatic Solution), depending on the model. Unlike passive styluses (which simply mimic the touch of a finger), active feathers communicate with the device screen, providing high accuracy and additional features.
Main technical features:
- 🔋 Power: Most Xiaomi styluses don’t require battery replacements – they charge from the device (for example, via the magnetic connector on the Mi Pad 5 tablet.
- 📡 Connection with the device: Bluetooth Low Energy is used (BLE) It's designed to transmit data about pressing, tilting and gestures, and it allows the stylus to work even up to 10 meters from the screen.
- ⚡ Press sensitivity: up to 4,096 pressure levels (in Smart Pen 2 models), comparable to professional graphics tablets.
- 🎨 Slope support: up to 60°, And what's important to artists and designers is that the pen responds to the angle of tilt, like a real brush.
It is important to understand that EMR technology (used, for example, in the Xiaomi Smart Pen for the Mi Pad 5) does not require a separate power source in the pen itself – the energy is transmitted by the electromagnetic field of the screen, which makes the stylus light and does not require recharging, while models with AES (for example, for smartphones) need a battery or battery.
Compatibility of Xiaomi stylus with devices
Not all Xiaomi styluses are universal – their compatibility depends on screen technology and software support. For example, the Xiaomi Smart Pen of the first version works only with the Mi Pad 5 and Mi Pad 5 Pro, while the Smart Pen 2 also supports the Mi Pad 6 and some Redmi Note series smartphones.
Below is a table of compatibility of popular models:
| Model of a stylus | Compatible devices | Technology | Whether charging is required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Smart Pen (1st generation) | Mi Pad 5, Mi Pad 5 Pro | EMR | No (powered by screen) |
| Xiaomi Smart Pen 2 | Mi Pad 6, Mi Pad 5, Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | EMR + Bluetooth | Yeah (in-built battery) |
| Xiaomi Mijia Stylus Pen | Redmi Note 11 Pro+, POCO X4 Pro | AES | Yes (replaceable battery) |
| Xiaomi Smart Pen (for smartphones) | Mi 11 Ultra, Mi Mix Fold | AES + Bluetooth | Yeah (USB-C charging) |
⚠️ Note: If your stylus is not recognized by the device, check not only the model compatibility, but also the firmware version. For example, the Smart Pen 2 with the Mi Pad 5 requires an update. MIUI Up to version 13.0.4 or higher.
How to check the compatibility of the stylus with your device?
How to connect and configure Xiaomi stylus
The process of connecting the stylus depends on its model. For most devices, the algorithm is as follows:
- Magnetic fixation (for tablets): attach the stylus to the side of the tablet (for example, the Mi Pad 5 has a special magnetic connector for charging and synchronization).
- Manual connection (for smartphones): Turn on Bluetooth on your device. Press and hold the button on the stylus for 3-5 seconds until the indicator flashes. From the Bluetooth menu, select the Xiaomi Smart Pen from the list of available devices.
Sizing
Settings → Screen → Stylus → Calibration
⚠️ Warning: If the stylus doesn't connect, try resetting it:
- Disconnect the stylus from the device.
- Press and hold the power button on the stylus for 10 seconds until the indicator goes out.
- Repeat the connection procedure.
⚠️ Note: if the stylus tip is worn out (the lines are less clear), it can be replaced. For the Smart Pen and Smart Pen 2 models, the original tips are sold at Xiaomi service centers or on the official website!