How to remove the watch from the Xiaomi bracelet: instructions for all models

Why you might need to take your watch off your bracelet

Xiaomi smartwatches and fitness bracelets have become an integral part of the daily lives of millions of users. However, even the most reliable device sometimes requires maintenance: whether it is changing the strap for a new one, cleaning contacts from sweat and dirt, or repairing after a fall. Removing the watch from the bracelet is a seemingly simple operation, but many face difficulties: jammed latches, fear of breaking the mechanism or scratching the body.

This topic is especially relevant for owners of models with seemingly non-removable straps, such as the Xiaomi Mi Band 6/7/8 or the Watch S1 Pro. The manufacturer often hides the mounts under decorative stubs, and the instructions in the kit are limited to a couple of pictures, as a result, users risk damaging the device by applying excessive force or using inappropriate tools.

In this article, we will look at the unique features of the mounts of different Xiaomi lines, show you what tools are really needed (and which will only harm), and give step-by-step instructions with photos.

What tools will be needed to remove the strap

Before you start dismantling, prepare everything you need. Most Xiaomi straps are removed without special fixtures, but some models (for example, the Watch S1 with a metal bracelet) may require additional tools.

• 🔧 Plastic blade or mediator for models with hidden latches (for example, Mi Band 8.
• 📎 Toothpick or paperclip - will help to press the fixers in narrow grooves.
• 🧴 Alcohol wipes - to clean contacts and grooves from dirt before assembly.
• 🔦 Lantern or table lamp – lighting will make it easier to work with small details.
• 🧤 Microfiber gloves (optional) – not to leave fingerprints on glossy surfaces.

⚠️ Warning: Never use knives, scissors or screwdrivers, which can warp plastic latches or damage the display. If the strap fails, don't force: chances are you missed the hidden lock.

For models with quick-removal straps (for example, Redmi Watch 3), you don’t need tools — just press the lock button, but owners of the Mi Band 8 Pro or Watch S1 Pro will have to work hard: their bracelets are mounted on screws under decorative plugs.

Step-by-step instructions for fitness bracelets Mi Band (all generations)

The Mi Band fitness bracelets (from 1 to 8 generations) have a similar strap attachment mechanism, but there are nuances. Consider a universal algorithm that will suit most models:

1. Place the bracelet on a flat surface with the display down so as not to scratch the screen.
2. Find two small slots on the back of the case (near the charging contacts).
3. Insert a plastic shoulder blade or toothpick into the slot and gently press away from the center of the bracelet.
4. You hear a slight click, which means that the lock has gone away. Repeat the action for the second side.
5. After releasing both latches, pull the capsule with the display upwards (perpendicular to the strap).

⚠️ Attention: In Mi Band models 7/8 The latches are tighter than in previous generations. If the blade doesn't work, try heating the bracelet with a hair dryer (temperature no higher than that). 50°C) - plastic will become softer.

Take a picture of the location of the contacts|Check for a plastic spatula.|Free up the workspace|Prepare the alcohol wipes.-->

For the Mi Band 8 Pro, the process is more complicated: here the strap is attached to a metal frame with two screws under the plugs.

1. Remove the decorative plugs from the ends of the strap (plug them with a shoulder blade).
2. Under the plugs you will find the screws T3 or T4 – use the appropriate screwdriver.
3. After unscrewing the screws frame will be disassembled into two parts, and the capsule will be removed without effort.

Features of removing the strap from the smart watch Xiaomi Watch

The Xiaomi Watch (S1, S2, 2 Pro series) has more complex strap attachment mechanisms. Unlike fitness bracelets, it often uses spring pins (as in classic mechanical watches) or screw connections.

Models with spring pins (Xiaomi Watch S1, S2)

This watch mimics the design of a traditional watch, so the straps are attached to the pins with springs.

1. Find on the back of the strap a small recess next to the mounting place.
2. Insert a toothpick or a special tool for pins (do not use a needle!).
3. Press the pin until you click - it will pop out on the opposite side.
4. Repeat for the second pin and remove the strap.

Models with screw mounts (Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro)

Here, the strap is fixed by two screws hidden under decorative plugs.

1. Put the plugs on the ends of the strap with a plastic spatula.
2. Under the stubs, you'll see the T5 screws - unscrew them counterclockwise.
3. After the screws are unscrewed, the strap will easily be removed from the guides.

⚠️ Warning: The screws in the Watch 2 Pro are of different lengths — remember which one was unscrewed from, so as not to confuse the assembly.

How to remove the strap from Redmi Watch 3 and other budget models

The Redmi Watch 3 and Redmi Watch 2 Lite have a simplified strap mounting system similar to the Mi Band, but with some differences. The main feature is that it uses one central latch instead of two side latches.

Instructions for removal:

1. Turn the clock over and find a small slot in the middle on the back of the strap.
2. Insert a plastic shoulder blade or nail into the groove and press towards the screen.
3. The latch will be removed, and the strap can be removed by a movement upwards.

To install the new strap, do the reverse: put the strap on the guides and press it before you click. Make sure the latch is fully fixed, otherwise the strap may fly off while you wear it.

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If you often change straps, buy a set for repairing watches with plastic blades and screwdrivers - it is inexpensive (about 300-500 rubles) and will protect your watch from scratches.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when removing straps from Xiaomi smartwatches, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

• 🔨 Using metal tools, scratches the body and deforms the plastic latches. Always use plastic or wood.
• 💪 Excessive force -- if the strap is not removed, you've missed the lock. Stop and look again.
• 🔄 Mixed screws – In screw-mounted models (such as the Watch 2 Pro), the screws are of different lengths.
• 🧼 Dirty contacts - before assembly, clean the grooves and contacts with alcohol. Dirt can interfere with reliable fixation.
• 🔋 Battery discharge – if the clock runs out during the procedure, you may lose data. Charge the device to 50% before work begins.

⚠️ Warning: If the watch stops turning on or doesn't respond to charging after the strap is removed, check if the power contacts are damaged.In Mi Band 8 and Watch S2 They are very close to the mountings of the strap.

Another common problem is losing stubs when disassembling screw-mounted models, so to avoid this, work on a table with high sides or use a magnetic screw mat.

Cleaning and maintenance after removal of the strap

Removing the strap is a great excuse to do a preventive cleaning of the device, and over time, sweat, dirt and dead skin cells accumulate under the strap, which can irritate or corrosion the contacts.

1. Clean the grooves of the attachment with a toothpick soaked in alcohol, pay attention to the corners where the dirt accumulates most.
2. Wipe the contacts to charge with a cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol. Do not use water - it can oxidize the metal.
3. If you have a silicone strap, wash it with warm water and soap and dry it in the air. Use special means for leather straps.
4. Before assembly, make sure all parts are dry - moisture can cause short circuits.

For models with a heart sensor (such as the Mi Band 7 or the Watch S2), pay special attention to cleaning the sensor. Use soft tissue without pile to avoid scratching the glass. If the sensor is contaminated, the heart rate readings will be inaccurate.

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Regular cleaning of contacts and slots prolongs the life of the device and improves the accuracy of sensors, just do it every 2-3 months.

FAQ: Frequent questions about removing Xiaomi straps