How to remove the strap from the Xiaomi watch: instructions for all models (2026)

Replacing the strap on Xiaomi smartwatches is a procedure that every owner will need sooner or later. Whether you want to update the design, pick up an accessory to fit the image or just replace a worn belt, it is important to do this carefully so as not to damage the mounting mechanism or the body of the device. In this article, we will analyze all existing types of strap mounts on Xiaomi watches, from classic spring pins to proprietary connectors of the latest models, as well as give step-by-step instructions with visual schemes and warnings of typical errors.

Many users are afraid to remove the strap themselves for fear of breaking the latch or losing small parts. However, with the right approach, the process takes no more than 5 minutes - the main thing is to know the exact type of mounting your model and use the appropriate tools. We also reveal the secrets of the manufacturer: why some straps are removed only in the service center, how to avoid scratches on the body and what to do if the pin is jammed.

In the article you will find:

• 🔧 3 types of strap mounts on Xiaomi watches (with photos and schemes)
• 📋 Step-by-step instructions for each model (from Mi Band to Watch) S3)
• ⚠️ Common mistakes and how to avoid them (such as why you shouldn’t use a knife)
• 🛠️ A list of tools that will really help (and what not to do)
• 🔄 Tips for installing a new strap without distortion

1. Types of strap fastenings on Xiaomi watches: how to determine your own

Before you start dismantling, you need to understand what kind of fixing mechanism your model uses. Xiaomi has three main types of mounts, and each requires a different approach. A mistake in determining the type can lead to a latch break or scratches on the body.

The easiest way to identify a mount is to look at the back of the strap at the junction to the watch body, and if you see a small recess with a metal pin, this is the classic spring bar that you see on most models (Mi Band). 4/5/6, Watch S1). If there is a plastic latch with a button - it is a proprietary connector (characteristic of the Watch). 2 Pro or Watch S3). The third option is a quick-removal mount (for example, on the Mi Band). 7 Pro) where the strap is fixed without tools.

If you're not sure what type of mount, don't try to remove the strap by force, it can cause a break. Use the official documentation or find a video analysis of your model. S3 the latch is hidden under the strap and opens by pressing a small button, which is not obvious at first glance.

2 Tools for removing the strap: what you really need

The right tool choices are critical to the safety of the procedure, and many users try to do with the tools they need -- a knife, a fork, even a toothpick -- but they often end up with scratches on the body or broken pins, and we've compiled a list of the best tools for each type of fastener, and we've also pointed out what to do.

For spring pins (the most common type) is ideal:

• 🔧 Special lift for straps (worth it) ~200 rubles, sold in watch accessories stores, and it has a notch that pins the pin accurately without the risk of scratching the body.
• 📍 Thin screwdriver with a flat tip (1-1.5 mm) suitable screwdriver for glasses or mobile phones.
• 🧲 Magnetic tweezers – will help hold the pin if it pops out and rolls under the table.

For proprietary connectors (plastic latches) it is enough:

• 🖊️ Plastic blade (for example, for opening smartphones) It does not scratch the body and allows you to gently press the latch.
• 💅 Nail - if the latch protrudes strongly enough, you can do without tools.

⚠️ Warning: Never use metal objects (knives, scissors, forks) to remove straps with plastic latches! Even a small effort can lead to chipping of the body or failure of the mechanism. If the latch does not lend itself, check whether the dirt blocks it - sometimes it is enough to wipe the connection place with an alcohol napkin.

For screw mounts (rarely found, for example, on some versions of the Watch) S1 Pro will be required:

• 🔩 Micro screwdriver (usually included with a watch) The size of the screw is usually 0.8-1.2 mm.
• 🧴 A drop of silicone lubricant - if the screw is squirrel and does not unscrew.

3. Step-by-step instruction: how to remove a strap with a spring pin

This type of mount is used on most Xiaomi models, including the Mi Band. 4/5/6, Watch S1 The main difficulty is the small size of the pin (usually). 1–1.5 - mm in diameter and risk of losing it. - Follow the instructions carefully to avoid typical errors.

Step 1: Prepare: Place the watch on a flat surface, preferably on a soft fabric (e.g., a microfiber), to avoid scratching. If the strap is leather or silicone, bend it slightly away from the body to see the pin.

Step 2: Find the pin. On the back of the strap, you'll see a little groove at the point where you connect to the clock, and there's the end of the spring pin, and sometimes it's hidden under a decorative pad (like the Watch). S1), junction.

Step 3: Puncture extraction. There are two options here:

1. With the strap handler: Put the notch of the shooter under the edge of the pin. With a light press, move the pin to the side (it should pop out at the opposite end). Repeat for the second pin.

screwdriver

• Apply the tip of the screwdriver to the edge of the pin at an angle ~45°.
• Press carefully until the pin moves. Don't apply force perpendicular to the body, so you can scratch the metal!
• If the pin doesn't lend itself, try pressing the other side.

⚠️ Attention: If the pin is out, but the strap is not removed, don't pull it with force! Chances are the second pin is still in place. Try to swing the strap from side to side, this will help push the second pin out.

Step 4: Install a new strap. When you install a new strap, insert the pins into the body holes, then gently press the strap until you click. Make sure both pins are fully in the slots, otherwise the strap may pop off when you wear it.

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If the pin is lost, do not try to replace it with improvised means (clips, pins). ~100 rubles.) - they have the correct diameter and spring mechanism.

4. Removal of the strap with proprietary connector (latch)

This type of mount is used on premium models such as the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro or Watch. S3. The main advantage of this is that it's easy to replace without tools, but there's a caveat: if the latch is jammed or contaminated, the strap may not be removed.

Step 1: Find the unlock button, which is usually on the back of the strap at the base of the body. S3) The button is hidden under the strap itself - it needs to be slightly bent.

Step 2. Press the latch. Use a nail or plastic shoulder blade to press the button in the direction indicated by the arrow (usually → or ←). You should hear a slight click, which means that the latch has opened.

Step 3. Remove the strap. After clicking, pull the strap aside (along the watch body). If it doesn't respond, check if the latch is fully open, sometimes you need to press harder.

If the latch doesn't press:

• 🧼 Clean the mechanism of dirt with a toothpick and alcohol. Often dust or sweat block the button.
• 🔥 Apply a drop of silicone lubricant (not WD-40!) on the machine and wait 5 minutes.
• 🛠️ If nothing helps, contact the service - perhaps the latch has deformed.

5. Quick-removal straps: how they work and what pitfalls

Newer models like the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 or Mi Band 7 Pro use a quick-removal mount that allows you to change your straps without tools, which seems like the perfect solution, but there are nuances.

And the way it works is that the strap is fixed by plastic guides that are snapped when you press it, and you take it off.

1. Find a small button or lever on the back of the strap.
2. Press it and simultaneously pull the strap to the side.
3. Repeat for the other side.

However, users often face two problems:

1. The strap doesn't hold tightly, which happens when the guides are contaminated or deformed, so you can wipe them with alcohol and check if there are any gaps.
2. The button doesn't press -- sometimes it sticks because it gets moisture -- Solution: Dry the clock in rice or silica gel for 12 to 24 hours.

If you are buying a quick-removal strap, make sure it is compatible with your model, for example, the Mi Band 7 straps won’t work for the Smart Band 8, even if they look the same.

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Quick-removal straps are convenient, but less reliable with an active lifestyle. If you exercise, check the strap fixation before exercising.

6. Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even when the procedure seems simple, many users make mistakes that cause the watch or the strap to break, and we've collected some of the most common ones and give you tips on how to prevent them.

Mistake 1: Use the wrong tools.

• ❌ What they do: try to put a strap with a knife, scissors or fork.
• ✅ How to do it: Use only plastic blades or special cameras. Metal scratches the body and can break the latch.

Mistake 2: Excessive force is applied.

• ❌ What do they do: pull the strap by force if it is not removed.
• ✅ How right is it: if the strap fails, you miss the lock (pin or latch.

Mistake 3: Loss of a spring pin.

• ❌ What do they do: do not fix the pin after extraction, and it is lost.
• ✅ How to do it: work on a table with a cloth attached, or use magnetic tweezers.

Mistake 4: Incorrect installation of the new strap.

• ❌ What do they do: insert pins not to the end or crooked.
• ✅ How to do it: make sure that both pins fit symmetrically into the slots. After installation, pull the strap over yourself -- if it doesn't jump, it's done right.

Mistake 5: Ignoring pollution.

• ❌ What do they do: try to remove the strap without cleaning the mechanism of dirt.
• ✅ How to do this: if the latch or the pin doesn't move, wipe it with alcohol and let it dry. WD-40 (but only outside the hull!).

7. How to choose a new strap: compatibility and materials

When you successfully remove the old strap, the question is, which one to choose? It's important to consider not only the design, but also the compatibility with the watch model, the material, and even the lifestyle.

1. Compatibility. Xiaomi straps are divided into:

• 🔄 Universal – suitable for multiple models (e.g., Mi Band 6 straps are often compatible with Mi Band 5).
• 🔒 Proprietary – only for a specific model (e.g., Watch straps) S3 Not suitable for the Watch 2 Pro).

Before buying, check the width of the mount (usually 18 mm, 20 mm or 22 mm) and the type of fixation (pin/latch).

Materials: The choice of material depends on your lifestyle:

The standard length of most straps for Xiaomi is 110-190 mm, but if you have an unusual wrist, pay attention to:

• 📏 Adjustable straps (for example, silicone with many holes).
• ⚙️ Micro-latched straps (allows you to accurately fit the size).

If you're buying a non-original strap, check the reviews on material quality and fixation. Cheap silicone straps can stretch in a month, and metal straps can rust when in contact with sweat.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)