How to remove the strap from the Xiaomi watch: 3 ways for different models

Xiaomi smart watches are some of the most popular gadgets in the wearable electronics market, but even such compact devices wear out straps over time.Whether you want to replace the standard silicone bracelet with a leather bracelet for business style, install a metal one for strength or just simply Clean contacts - the procedure for removing the strap requires care. In this article, we will discuss all the current methods of dismantling for different lines of equipment. Xiaomi/Amazfit, including models with quick-removal latches and screw fasteners.

It is important to consider that the design of the strap mount depends on the generation of the device. For example, Mi Band 1-4 use classic plastic latches, while Mi Band 5-8 and Xiaomi Watch S1/S2 are equipped with metal spring pins. Incorrect handling of the mount can lead to breakage of the lock or damage to the watch body. We will describe each step in detail, provide visual analogies and list tools that will make it easier.

1. Determine the type of strap attachment on your model

Before you start dismantling, you need to identify the fixing mechanism. Xiaomi has 4 main types of mounts that are found in different series of devices:

• 🔗 Plastic latch - used in Mi Band 1-4, Amazfit Bip U. The strap is fixed using two plastic "ears" that snap into the grooves of the body.
• 🔩 Spring bar – standard for Mi Band 5–8, Xiaomi Watch S1/S2, Amazfit GTR/GTS. Metal bar with spring holds strap in nest.
• 🔧 Screw mount - found in premium models, for example, Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro. The strap is screwed with miniature screws.
• 🧲 Magnetic mounting is rare, but is used in some design options (for example, straps for Xiaomi Mi Watch Lite).

To determine the exact type, look at the connection of the strap to the watch body. If you see a small hole on the sides (usually 1-1.5 mm in diameter), it is a spring pin. If there are protruding plastic elements on the strap, this is a latch. The screws are visible to the naked eye, and the magnetic mount gives a slight resistance when you try to pull the strap.

2 Tools for removing the strap: what will be needed

Depending on the type of attachment, you may need different tools, and here is a full list of what you need:

If you don’t have a specialised spring pin drawer, you can replace it with a straight-line clip or a needle from a syringe (0.6-0.8 mm in diameter), so that the tool is thin enough to fit into the pin hole, but strong enough not to bend.

⚠️ Warning: Do not use knives or other sharp objects to remove a spring pin.This can scratch the watch body or damage sealing rubber pads, which will lead to loss of water resistance.

3. Step-by-step instruction: remove the strap with a spring pin (Mi Band 5-8, Xiaomi Watch)

This method is suitable for most modern Xiaomi models. Follow the instructions carefully so as not to lose the spring pin - it is very small and can easily roll under furniture.

Place the watch on a soft surface (towel)

Prepare the tool (removal / clip) and tweezers

Light the work place (use a flashlight)

Mark the side of the strap (top/bottom) so as not to confuse when re-installing-->

1. Put the watch down on a flat surface, and that will prevent scratches on the display.
2. Find a small hole on the back of the strap (usually next to the watch body) and insert the tip of the receiver or uncurved clip into it.
3. Carefully press the pin towards the watch body, while pulling the strap in the opposite direction, you should feel the pin compress and exit the groove.
4. Repeat the action on the second side of the strap. If the pin doesn't lend itself, try pushing on the other side of the hole.

If the pin falls out, don't worry, it can be easily inserted back when you install a new strap, but don't lose it. If the pin is left inside the case, use tweezers to carefully remove it.

💡

If the pin is stuck, drop 1 drop of silicone lubricant (such as WD-40 Specialist) into the hole, which will make it easier to remove and protect against corrosion.

4. How to remove a strap with a plastic latch (Mi Band 1-4, Amazfit Bip U)

Older Mi Band models use a simple plastic latch that can eventually stick to the body, so the key is not to break the fragile plastic elements.

1. Hold the watch in your hand so that the strap is directed away from you, which will make it easier to access the latch.
2. With a nail or a flat screwdriver, gently apply the plastic protrusion on the inside of the strap (on the skin side). Press up, simultaneously pull the strap to the side.
3. Repeat the action for the second latch. If the strap does not lend itself, do not apply excessive force - it is better to moisten the connection with warm water for 1-2 minutes, so that the plastic becomes softer.

⚠️ Note: Do not use metal objects to crack plastic mounts on the Mi Band 1-3. The body of these models is made of soft plastic that is easy to scratch.

If the latch is broken, do not worry – the straps for the old Mi Band are inexpensive (from 200 rubles), and they are easy to find on AliExpress or in official Xiaomi stores.

5. Screw mount: features of dismantling (Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro and others)

Premium watches like the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro or some versions of the Amazfit use screws to lock the strap, a reliable way to do this, but it requires caution when unscrewing.

You'll need:

• 🔧 Micro screwdriver with nozzle T4 or T5 (model-wise).
• 🧲 Magnetic mat or tweezers (so as not to lose the screws).
• 🔦 Lupa (optional, for accuracy).

1. Place the watch on an antistatic surface (such as a silicone mat).
2. Carefully unscrew the screws counterclockwise. Don't force -- if the screw doesn't go, check the size of the nozzle.
3. Remove the strap by remembering the location of the screws (sometimes they are of different lengths!).

The screws in Xiaomi watches often have a special anti-vandal coating. If you feel resistance, do not try to break through it with force, it can break the slits. Instead, slightly heat the screw with a hairdryer (temperature not higher than 50 ° C) or use a screwdriver with a magnetic tip.

6. Frequent mistakes and how to avoid them

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

• 🔨 Using inappropriate tools – knives, scissors or too thick screwdrivers scratch the body and bend pins.
• 💦 Excessive force – plastic latches break and spring pins can fly out and get lost.
• 🔋 Ignoring polarity – some straps have an upper and lower side (e.g., with a heart rate sensor).
• 🚫 Working without substrate – the watch can slip and fall on a hard surface.

To minimize the risks:

• 📸 Take a picture of the original position of the strap before removing it.
• 🧹 Work on a clean surface (preferably on a white sheet of paper to see the details that have fallen out).
• 🔍 Use a magnifying glass to work with fine elements accurately.

💡

If you are not sure of your abilities, contact the Xiaomi service center. The cost of replacing the strap there rarely exceeds 500 rubles, but you will avoid the risk of damaging the watch.

7. How to install a new strap: Step-by-step

The installation of the strap is in reverse order, but there are several nuances:

1. For spring pins: Put the pin in the strap hole, squeeze it with tweezers and insert it into the groove of the case. Make sure that both ends of the pin have entered the nests - you should hear a slight click.
2. For plastic latches: Combine the protrusions on the strap with the grooves on the body. Press until the characteristic click (there should be no backlash).

For screw anchorage:

• Twisting the screws cross-cross to avoid distortion.
• Do not pull - light resistance is enough when twisting.

After installation, check:

• 🔄 The strap does not dangle or twist.
• 💧 If the watch is waterproof, make sure the rubber sealing rings (if any) don't shift.
• 📱 Synchronization with the phone is not broken (sometimes when replacing the strap with sensors, a reconnection is required).

FAQ: Answers to popular questions