Why it is important to remove the strap from the Mi Watch Lite
The Xiaomi Mi Watch Lite has become popular thanks to a combination of functionality and affordable price. However, even simple operations such as replacing a strap can cause difficulties for a beginner. Incorrect removal of the bracelet can damage the mounts, scratches on the body or even break the fixing mechanism, especially for non-original accessories, where the quality of plastic often leaves much to be desired.
In this article, we will discuss three official ways to remove the strap (including the hidden method for stubborn mounts), describe the types of compatible bracelets, and give advice on choosing a replacement, and also warn about a common mistake that breaks 80% of hours when you first change the strap.
If youβve never dealt with a Xiaomi smartwatch, start with our preparation checklist β it will save you time and nerves.
Find a flat surface with good lighting
Prepare a plastic shoulder blade or toothpick
Check the type of fastening of your strap (standard or quick-clamp)
Turn off the clock from charging (if it was connected)
Take a picture of the current position of the strap for the correct installation of the new one-->
Most of the original Mi Watch Lite straps are equipped with a quick-removal button, which is the safest method recommended by the manufacturer.
- Turn the watch with the back side to you to see the place of attachment of the strap to the body.
- Find a small button (usually black or gray) on the inside of the mount.
- Press the button before clicking and simultaneously pull the strap away from the clock.
If the button doesn't press or the strap doesn't respond, don't force it! You're probably dealing with a non-original accessory or a clogged mechanism, and then you move on to the second method.
π‘
If the button is pressed tightly, drop a drop of silicone lubricant (such as WD-40 Specialist) into the mounting site, which will make the process easier and prolong the life of the mechanism.
β οΈ Warning: Never use metal objects (knives, screwdrivers) to press a button! this leaves scratches on the watch body and can break the lock.
For clarity, watch the official video from Xiaomi (attached below). Notice how the wizard fixes the watch with one hand and the second gently presses the button - this is the key point to avoid distortion.
Video instructions from Xiaomi
Note: The video is in Chinese, but the process is shown in as much detail as possible. Turn on subtitles if necessary. 2. Alternative method: unbuttoned strap removal (for non-original bracelets) Non-original straps often lack a quick-remove button. Instead, you use a spring latch, which requires a different approach: π Plastic blade (or mediator) π¦ Lighting lamp π§² Magnet (optional, to fix small details) Step-by-step: Put the blade in the gap between the strap and the watch body on the side of the mount. Carefully press down until you feel that the latch has moved away. Pull the strap perpendicular to the body (not sideways!). If the strap does not lend itself, try to heat the place of fastening with a hairdryer (temperature not higher than 50).Β°C. Heat will expand the plastic and make it easier. But be careful: overheating can warp the body! Type of strap Method of removing Risks Original (with button) Pressing the button + Minimum (if not enforced) Non-original (latch) Scapula + Heating Scratches, breakage of the latch Silicone (without mechanism) Just pull off the Stretching guides Metal (bracelet) Special tool Damage to the links 3. Hidden way: how to remove the strap if the button broke You pressed the button, but the strap didn't come out, or it broke off completely, and in this case, the wire method that you use in service centers will help: π§ Thin guitar string or fishing line (β
0.2-0.3 mm) π Lupa (optional) π§΄ Action algorithm: Drain the line between the strap and the body on the opposite button. Carefully saw back and forth until you feel the lock has moved away. Pull the strap up, holding the line tight. After removing the strap, be sure to clean the slots of the plastic shavings with alcohol. β οΈ Attention: This method requires skill! If the fishing line slips, it can scratch the screen or body. Practice on the old strap, if you have one. Original silicone Non-original silicone metal bracelet Leather strap Other option--> 4. How to choose a new strap: compatibility and materials Before buying a replacement, check three key parameters: The width of the mount: the Mi Watch Lite is 20 mm (measured at the connection point to the body); the type of lock: the original straps have a button, the non-original straps have a latch or spring. Material: silicone is hypoallergenic but stampy; metal is durable but heavier; skin is aesthetic but afraid of water. Here is a comparative table of popular materials: Material Pros minuses Price (average) Silicone Light, water resistant, hypoallergenic accumulates sweat, over time stretches 300-800 β½ TPU (Thermoplastic) Stronger than silicone, not stretch Less elastic, can rub 500-1200 β½ Premium appearance, durability Heavy, can scratch the body 1500-3500 β½ Stylish, pleasant to the touch Fears water, requires care 1200-2800 β½ For sports, it is better to choose silicone or TPU β They don't absorb sweat, they clean easily, and leather or metal will do for the office, but remember that metal bracelets can block the pulse sensor on the back of the watch. π‘Before buying, check the reviews about the compatibility of the strap with the Mi Watch Lite. Some Chinese sellers indicate the wrong width of the mount (for example, 18 mm instead of 20 mm). 5. Frequent mistakes and how to avoid them Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when changing the strap. TOP-3 lapses that lead to breakdowns: π§ Application of force at an angle: the strap must be pulled strictly perpendicular to the body, otherwise the fixator breaks down. π₯ Using an open fire to heat plastic (lighter, matches) β this melts the mount and makes it brittle. π§ Replacement of the strap on the wet watch: water enters the slots and oxidizes the metal parts of the locker. Another common problem is the mismatch of the guides when you install a new strap. If you hear a click, but the strap is dangling, it's crooked. Take it off and try again, aligning in the grooves. β οΈ Warning: If the watch stops detecting the pulse after the strap is replaced, check if the bracelet is blocked by the sensor on the back. This is especially true for metal and leather straps with wide clasps. 6. The life of the strap depends not only on the material, but also on the care. Here are simple rules to help avoid premature replacement: π§Ό silicone/TPU: wash with warm water with soap 1 Once a week, use disinfection. 70% alcohol. π§΄ Skin: wipe with a wet wipe, apply skin conditioner once a month (no silicone!). π© Metal: Clean with a toothbrush and paste, avoid abrasives. Use polish for jewelry to shine. Store spare straps in a sealed bag with silica gel (a bag from a shoebox), which will prevent the oxidation of metal parts and the appearance of mold on leather products. If the strap begins to smell unpleasant, soak it on 30 minutes in a solution of water and vinegar (1:1). For silicone, baking soda is also suitable - it neutralizes odors. π‘Regular care increases the life of the strap by 30-50%, for example, a silicone bracelet without cleaning lasts 6-8 months, and with care - up to 1.5 years. FAQ: Frequently asked, Can you use straps from other Xiaomi models (e.g. Mi Band 6) on the Mi Watch Lite? No, straps are not compatible. The Mi Watch Lite has a 20mm width and the Mi Band 6 has 12-18mm (depending on the version) In addition, the locking mechanism is fundamentally different: Smartwatches use a button or a latch, and fitness bracelets use a spring pin. What if the watch doesn't sync with the smartphone after you change the strap? The problem isn't the strap, it's the Bluetooth connection failure. Try: Reset the watch (press the button for 10 seconds). Remove the device from the list of conjugates in the Mi Fitness app. Reset the clock settings to factory (Settings) β About the clock β If it doesn't work, check if the metal strap covers the antenna (usually located on the top of the body). How to distinguish the original Xiaomi strap from a fake? The original accessories have: the Mi logo or Xiaomi logo on the inside of the strap (engraved, not sticker). Hologram packaging and QR-The original strap starts from 600-800 and is smooth seams and homogeneous material (fakes often show plastic spouts). β½. Anything that's cheaper is probably a replica. Can you wear the Mi Watch Lite without a strap, like on a chain? Technically, but it makes the watch waterproof. The Mi Watch Lite has a 5-grade protection. ATM Only with a properly installed strap that seals the fasteners. Without it, water and dust will enter the slots, which will lead to: Oxidation of the charging contacts, failure of the pulse sensor, loss of warranty (if the watch is still warranty). If you want to experiment with wearing, use a case with a watch mount. Where to buy the Mi Watch Lite straps with a guarantee of quality? Official accessories: Official Xiaomi store (mi.com/ru). Branded stores in Svyaznoy, M. Video, Eldorado. Authorized resellers on Wildberries or Ozon (look for the sign "Official Partner"). For non-original straps, check the seller's rating (not lower than the seller's rating). 4.8) Avoid buying on AliExpress without reviews - the risk of running into an incompatible bracelet is too high.