How to quickly and safely remove the strap from the Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite: instructions with photos and videos

Why Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite Owners Change Their Straps and When It’s Necessary

The Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite has become popular thanks to a combination of functionality and affordable price, but even such devices have a consumable element – a strap. Over time, the silicone or fabric bracelet loses its original appearance: rubbing, changing color, and in some cases the material begins to crumble. In addition, a replacement strap may be required for medical reasons (for example, an allergy to silicone) or simply to change style – a metal bracelet looks more presentable at a business meeting than a sports option.

Another common reason is that the mounting mechanism is broken, and plastic latches wear out over time, especially if the watch is often removed/dressed, in which case, trying to remove the strap "on force" can damage the watch body. It's important to understand that the Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite uses a quick-removal mechanism, but it requires care - many users are inexperienced to break the locks, trying to move the strap in the wrong direction.

Before you start replacing, check what type of strap is installed on your watch. Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite supports standard 20mm-wide straps, but the mounts may vary depending on the batch. For example, early versions used plastic pins, and newer versions have metal spring-mounted locks. This affects the tools you'll need.

πŸ“Š Why do you want to remove the strap from the Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite?
To change the new
The anchorage broke.
Cleaning the mud
Another option

What tools will be needed to remove the strap

In most cases, a professional tool is not required to remove the strap from the Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite, but using improvised tools without protection can scratch the case.

  • πŸ”§ A plastic blade or mediator is the safest option for snapping the locks. Metal objects (knives, screwdrivers) leave scratches.
  • 🧲 Magnetic mat or bowl β€” small springs and pins are easily lost, and the magnet will help them not to drop them.
  • πŸ” Lupus or flashlights – mounts on Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite miniature, and without good lighting you can miss the latch.
  • 🧴 Silicone lubricant (WD-40 or analogue) - if the fixtures are jammed by moisture or dust.

If you plan to install a different type of strap (for example, a metal bracelet), you may need a tool to adjust the links. For silicone or nylon straps, the same blade is enough. Note: some strap sets come with a special key to remove - it can be ordered separately on AliExpress or at Xiaomi service centers.

⚠️ Warning: Don't use scissors or pliers to remove the strap! Even if the lock appears to be "jammed," mechanical action with metal will cause chips on the watch body. In 80% of cases, the problem is solved by a careful press of a plastic blade.

β˜‘οΈ Preparation for the stripping

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Step-by-step: how to remove the strap from the Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite

The strap removal process on this model is different from the classic spring-pin watch, which uses a quick-removal mechanism with side latches.

  1. Turn the watch with the back of your head. On the inside of the strap near the body, you'll see a small lock button (usually marked with an arrow or dot). On the Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite, there are two of them, one on each side.
  2. Press the lock with a plastic blade or nail while pulling the strap to the side (along the body). Don't pull up - it will break the mount! The movement should be smooth but confident.
  3. If the strap fails, check if the latch is blocked by dirt. Rub the mounting site with an alcohol napkin and try again. At the very least, drop WD-40 onto the latch and wait for 2-3 minutes.
  4. After removing the first strap, repeat the procedure for the second side, and note that the right and left latches may differ in stiffness.

Critically, on the Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite, the strap locks are asymmetrical β€” the right side is easier to remove than the left. If you feel excessive resistance, don’t force β€” chances are you’re pressing the wrong button.

For clarity, see the official video from Xiaomi (available on their support website) showing the process on a similar model, and if the strap is still not removed, it may be deformed, in which case you should contact the service center.

What if the lock breaks inside the body?
If part of the plastic fixture is left inside the groove of the watch, do not try to remove it yourself with tweezers - this can damage the internal contacts. Contact the service with an indication of the problem of "breaking the strap mounting". The average cost of repair in Russia is 800-1,500 rubles.

Typical mistakes when removing a strap and how to avoid them

Even with the seemingly simple procedure, many users make mistakes that lead to the breakage of the watch or strap, and here are the most common ones:

Mistake.Effects of consequencesHow to avoid
Pull the strap upwards, not sidewaysThe plastic fixture or mount on the body breaksThe movement must be parallel to the body of the clock
I use metal tools.Scratches on the body, chips on the glassJust plastic, wood or silicone
I'm pressing the lock too hard.The button is recessed inside the bodyPress smoothly, no jerks
I don't fix my watch when I'm taking it off.The clock falls and beats.Place them on a soft surface or fasten them in a vise with silicone linings

Another common problem is the loss of a spring or pin when removing the strap. If this happens, do not try to replace it with improvised means (clips, pins). Xiaomi service centers sell original mounting remixes for 200-400 rubles. Installing non-original parts can cause the strap to spontaneously unfasten while wearing.

⚠️ Warning: If you notice that the lock is inside the groove of the watch after removing the strap, do not insert a new strap "as is" and this will lead to a loose fit and risk of loss of the watch.

How to choose a new strap for Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite: compatibility and materials

After successfully removing the old strap, the question arises of choosing a new one. Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite supports straps with a width of 20 mm, but there are nuances:

  • πŸ”„ The original straps from Xiaomi are guaranteed to fit in the mount, but are more expensive (from 1000 rubles.
  • πŸ›’ The side of the strap (e.g., from Amazfit or universal) may require adapters.
  • 🧬 Materials: Silicone is cheap, but brandy can cause allergies. Nylon is breathable, sports-friendly, but it gets dirty quickly. Skin is presentable, but afraid of moisture. Metal is durable, but heavier and can rub.

When buying, pay attention to the type of mount. Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite uses a quick-removal mechanism with side latches, but some third-party straps are designed for classic spring pins. In this case, you will need adapters (costs from 150 rubles on AliExpress). Also check the length of the strap - standard for the wrist 15-21 cm, but for children or owners with a non-standard hand size, you may need shortened options.

πŸ’‘

Before buying a new strap, measure the width of the mount on your watch with a rod or ruler. Even if the seller indicates "20 mm", there may be errors up to Β±0.5 mm, due to which the strap will not sit tight.

How to install a new strap: nuances for different types

It's easier to install a new strap than to remove the old one, but there are pitfalls here too.

  1. Combine the strap mounting with the groove on the watch body. Make sure the arrows on the strap and the clock match (they indicate the direction of installation).
  2. Press the strap lightly until you click, so there should be no backlashes or gaps.
  3. Check the mount's reliability by pulling the strap over you. If it slips, the lock doesn't fully snap.

There are different materials that have their nuances:

  • 🧴 Silicone straps can stick to the body.
  • πŸ”— Metal bracelets often come with adjustable links. Use a special key (included) to fit under the wrist.
  • 🧡 Tissue straps (nylon, polyester) require accuracy - they are easy to tear with excessive tension.

If you install a strap with an adapter (for example, for classic spring pins), first fasten the adapter on the clock, then attach the strap. Make sure that the adapter does not overlap the sensors on the back of the Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite - this will impair the accuracy of the pulse measurement.

πŸ’‘

After installing the new strap, reset the sensor calibration settings in the Mi Fitness app, so that the watch adapts to the new position on the wrist.

What to do if the strap is not fixed or falls out

If after installation the strap spontaneously unfastens or dangles, the reasons may be as follows:

  • πŸ”§ Insufficient pressing during installation - the lock is not snapped to the end. Try to remove and install the strap again, pressing harder.
  • 🧩 Wearing the mount on the watch β€” plastic slots will eventually disintegrate, so the solution is to use a strap with a thicker pin or contact a service to replace the mount.
  • πŸ”„ Incompatible adapter β€” if you use an adapter for a non-original strap, check its density. Sometimes it helps to attach a thin rubber gasket.
  • πŸ’§ Moisture getting into the mechanism - dry the watch and fasten with a hair dryer (cold air!) or silica gel for 12 hours.

For a temporary solution (for example, if the strap falls out during exercise), you can use bilateral tape or heat glue, but this is short-lived. In the long run, it is better:

  1. Buy an original strap with a landing guarantee.
  2. Contact the service for the diagnosis of fastening (may require replacement of the plastic fixator).
  3. Use an alternative fastening strap (e.g., on Velcros) if the standard mechanism is worn out.

⚠️ Warning: If the strap falls out due to a breakage of the internal retainer, do not use superglue or epoxy for repair.These substances can damage the plastic of the case and make the watch unsuitable for further repairs.

FAQ: Frequent questions about straps for Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite

Can I use straps from other Xiaomi models (e.g. Mi Band 7 or Watch S1)?
No, the Mi Band straps don't fit -- they're different in width (18mm vs. 20mm for the Watch 2 Lite), but the Xiaomi Watch S1 or Amazfit GTS 2 straps may work, but they require a mount compatibility check, so you'd better choose the straps marked "Watch 2 Lite" or "20mm fast take."
How to clean the strap mounts if they are dirty?
Use a toothpick or cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol. Do not use abrasives (such as toothpaste) - they scratch the plastic. WD-40 or citric acid will do the job to remove rust from metal fixers (apply for 5 minutes, then wipe).
How much does it cost to replace the strap in the official Xiaomi service?
In Xiaomi service centers in Russia, it costs 500-1,200 rubles to replace the strap (excluding the cost of the strap itself). If you need to replace a broken mount on the body, the price rises to 1,500-2,500 rubles. The official list of services can be found on the Mi Service website.
Can I wear the Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite without a strap, for example, on a chain?
Technically, but it's not recommended. Without the strap, the pulse sensors and the accelerometer will not work properly (the watch is designed to fit tightly to the wrist), and the risk of dropping or losing the watch increases. If you need an alternative, consider clip cases or wrist belts.
Where to buy the original straps for Xiaomi Watch 2 Lite?
Official straps are sold: on the Mi Store website (priced from 990 rubles); in Xiaomi branded stores (for example, in the shopping center "European" in Moscow); on AliExpress from trusted sellers (look for "Original Xiaomi"); in large chain stores (Svyaznoy, M. Video, Citilink); Beware of fakes - they often have an inaccurate fit and quickly break down.