Changing the wristband on a fitness tracker is not just a way to update the look of the gadget, but also a need that arises when you break or want to choose a more comfortable material. Owners of Xiaomi devices often face difficulties in the first attempt to remove the capsule from the silicone base, as the design of some models involves a tight fit. Wrong actions can damage plastic ears or even scratch the body of the tracker.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the mechanics of the mounting of different Mi Band generations, from the older versions to the most modern ones, and explain how to safely dismantle the module. You will learn about the specific design nuances that are often ignored by users, which leads to unnecessary stress and the risk of accessory failure. The right approach to replacing the strap will prolong the life of your device and make it easy to combine styles.
Before you start to act, you need to visually assess the type of connection between the capsule and the bracelet. There are several basic types of attachments, and understanding the difference between them is a key success factor. Some models require simple push, while others are equipped with hidden locks or require the bend of special "petals." Ignoring these features can cost you the integrity of the plastic.
Features of the design of the Mi Band fastening
The main difference between Xiaomi trackers and classic watches is that the dial (or capsule) here is a removable element built into an elastic base. Early models such as the Mi Band 1S or Mi Band 2 used a direct-pressing method, where the plastic of the capsule acted as one of the walls of the bracelet, which made replacing difficult and required considerable effort, often leading to deformation of the edges.
Starting with the Mi Band 3 and Mi Band 4, engineers have introduced a more sophisticated system with protruding ears, the capsule is inserted into the slot from the bottom, and is fixed by tensioning silicone and special cutouts on the body. The fixation mechanism here is designed to ensure that the device does not fall out spontaneously when running or swimming, but allows you to remove it with your hands without tools. However, over time, the silicone can sulk or, conversely, stretch, which will change the density of the landing.
⚠️ Warning: Never use sharp metal objects such as knives or screwdrivers to polish the capsule.The metal will easily damage soft silicone and can leave deep scratches on the touch screen or tracker body.
Newer models, including the Mi Band 5, Mi Band 6 and Mi Band 7, have been (optimized) to change straps quickly, with special slots to unfasten the bottom of the bracelet without removing the capsule itself, and this engineering solution has made life much easier for users who want to change the style of a wearable device during the day, so you don't have to push the tracker out to replace it, just snap the bottom arc.
The evolution of Xiaomi mounts
Instructions for Mi Band 3 and 4 models
The third and fourth generation models are among the most popular, and the question of how to remove the strap from them arises most often. The design here is classic: the capsule has two “ears” on one side and one wide on the other (or two narrow ones, depending on the modification).
The most effective method is to push the capsule with your thumb. Put the bracelet with the outside (screen) down on a hard but non-scratching surface, such as a wooden table or mouse mat. Press your thumb on the convex part of the capsule, which usually protrudes slightly above the silicone level, while holding the edge of the strap.
☑️ The algorithm of removing the capsule
If the capsule is very tight, you can try to bend the bracelet slightly at the mounting site to ease the tension of the silicone. However, it is important not to overdo it so as not to break the jumper. In some cases, using the thumb of the second hand to push the capsule on the back side helps, but this requires a certain skill. The main thing is to avoid jerks that can lead to slipping of the arm and injury.
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Heat the bracelet with a hair dryer (not too hot air) for 10-15 seconds. Silicone will become softer and more elastic, which will greatly facilitate the removal of the capsule without risking damage to the attachments.
Removal of the strap on the Mi Band 5, 6 and 7
In the fifth, sixth and seventh generation, Xiaomi has implemented a rapid replacement mechanism, so you don't have to take out the tracker if you want to just change the color or the material on the bottom strap, and you have a recess or tongue on the inside of the bracelet, where you connect to the body, and you click on it, and you snap the bottom of the strap.
The process is to turn the tracker over with the screen to you. Find the connection between the bottom strap and the capsule body. You'll see a small protrusion or notch. You'll press the element with your thumb or nail, while pulling the bottom of the strap down. You'll hear a characteristic click, and the bracelet will be released. The mechanism is designed to withstand the loads on the wearer, but is easy to disassemble at the will of the wearer.
If you have to remove the capsule completely (for example, to charge outside the bracelet or replace the entire kit), the procedure is similar to Models 3 and 4, but requires less force. The ears in these models sit freer. Just press on the back wall of the capsule and it will easily jump out of the slots. Don't be afraid to damage the device with the right approach, because the safety margin of the attachments is quite high here.
| Model | Type of attachment | We need a tool. | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Band 3 | False (ears) | No. | Medium |
| Mi Band 4 | False (ears) | No. | Medium |
| Mi Band 5 | Quick-moving | No. | Low. |
| Mi Band 6 | Quick-moving | No. | Low. |
| Mi Band 7 | Quick-moving | No. | Low. |
Specifics of old models (Mi Band 1, 1S, 2)
The first generation of Xiaomi fitness trackers are the hardest hits. In the Mi Band 1, 1S and 2 models, the capsule doesn't have classic ears. It's an oval or rectangular module that's just inserted into the slot in a silicone-based, and the density of the fitting is very high so that the device doesn't get lost, and it's almost impossible to remove it with your bare hands without the risk of damaging your nails or skin.
To remove the capsule from such bracelets, it is often recommended to use a blunt object with a wide working surface, such as a plastic card or a spoon handle. You need to tamper with the capsule from one of the narrow sides, gradually loosening it. You need to act slowly, moving along the perimeter. Uniform pressure will help avoid skewing and getting stuck in the module.
⚠️ Warning: Older models are at high risk of breaking silicone at the tension point. If the bracelet is old and cracked, it's easier to buy a new one than try to save the old one when removing the capsule.
There is also a "folk" method that may sound strange but works effectively.Some users recommend putting the bracelet in the freezer on the back of the car. 10-15 In cold, the silicone gets stiffer and can shrink slightly, which will loosen its grip on the capsule. Once cooled, it becomes much easier to remove the module.
Frequent errors and risks in replacement
One of the most common mistakes is to try to remove the strap without understanding how it works: users begin to pull the capsule by the edges or cross the nail across the screen, leaving micro scratches that, on closer inspection, will be very striking. Mechanical damage to the body can disrupt the device's moisture protection, which is critical for fitness trackers who often come in contact with sweat or water.
Another mistake is to use excessive force. If the capsule doesn't come out, you're putting the force in the wrong direction or the wrong place. In models with ears, you need to push the center of the back cover, not the edges. In models with quick-removal mechanism, you need to find a hold, not break the connection with a jerk. Patience and careful study of the design will save your device.
Also worth mentioning is the risk of losing the capsule, which is small, smooth, and when pulled out sharply, can fly out of your hands and roll into a hard-to-reach place, and it is recommended to perform a replacement procedure over a table, sofa or cloth surface, which will soften the fall if the tracker slips out, and prevent its loss.
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The main risk of replacement is damage to the waterproofing of the case due to the use of sharp objects. Always use only fingers or soft tools.
How to properly install a new strap
After successfully removing the capsule or unfastening the old strap, installing the new element is usually easier. In models with ears (Mi Band 3, 4), one side of the capsule is first inserted (usually one with two ears or one wide one), and then the second one is snapped. It is important to hear or feel a characteristic click confirming that the module has sat down. Check if there are gaps between the silicone and the plastic.
For quick-removal models (Mi Band 5-7), the process is even easier. Combine the slots on the bracelet with the protrusions on the capsule and press until you click. Make sure the connection is reliable by pulling the strap slightly in different directions. If done correctly, there will be no backlash. A quality setup ensures that the tracker does not fly off during training.
Once installed, it is recommended to wipe the inside of the new strap and the capsule with a dry cloth, which will remove dust and villi that may have gotten there during the replacement process, and cleanliness in the contact area of the skin and device is important to prevent allergic reactions and irritations, especially if you wear the tracker around the clock.