How to Detect Your Xiaomi Mi Band Model: From Mi Band 1 to Mi Band 8

Xiaomi Mi Band fitness bracelets are some of the most popular wearables in the world, but their similarity often confuses users. How to distinguish the Mi Band 6 from the Mi Band 7 when both look almost the same? What if you got the bracelet without packaging or documentation? In this article, we will examine all possible ways to identify the model, from visual differences to hidden technical data.

Compounding the problem, Xiaomi regularly releases updated versions with minimal design changes. For example, the Mi Band 5 and Mi Band 6 have similar straps, but different screens and sensors. Improper model definition can lead to incompatible accessories or firmware errors, so it is important to know where to look for information — and we will show this visually.

1. Visual differences: how to determine the model by appearance

The quickest way is to compare your bracelet to the key design features of each model. Xiaomi gradually changed the shape of the case, screen and location of the sensors.

• 📱 Mi Band 1–4: miniature OLED-The screen (or lack thereof) is on the Mi Band 1/1S), physical button under the screen, plastic case with a latch on the strap.
• 🖥️ Mi Band 5: The first bracelet with AMOLED-screen 1.1", touch button under the display, magnetic charging (5 contacts).
• 🔍 Mi Band 6: enlarged screen 1.56" with rounded corners, no physical button, magnetic charging (6 pins).
• 💡 Mi Band 7/8: bigger screen (1.62" Mi Band 7 and 1.64" Mi Band 8), aluminum case, improved sensors (SpO₂ Mi Band 6 and 7 absent).

Note the remesh: the models up to and including the Mi Band 5 are removable (fits into slots), and since the Mi Band 6, they are integrated (the strap is removed only with a special tool), and also look at the back of the body - the number of sensors and their location vary. For example, the Mi Band 8 heart rate sensor is shifted closer to the edge.

2. Check through the Mi Fitness (Zepp Life) app

If you're connected to a smartphone, the most reliable way to do this is to look at the official app. Mi Fitness (now Zepp Life) automatically detects the pattern when you sync it. Here's how to do this:

1. Open the Mi Fitness or Zepp Life app.
2. Go to the Profile section → My devices.
3. Click on your bracelet name and the model will be listed under the name (e.g. Mi Smart Band 7).

If the bracelet is not connected, try adding it again through Profile → Add the device. The app will suggest selecting a model from the list - if your bracelet is not automatically identified, then it is either fake or you need to update the firmware.

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If the app displays an incorrect model (for example, instead of Mi Band 7 shows Mi Band 6), try resetting the bracelet to factory settings via Settings → Reset in the device menu.

3. Serial number and barcode: where to look and how to decrypt

Each Xiaomi Mi Band bracelet has a unique serial number (SN) and a barcode that can be used to identify the model, and their location depends on the version:

• 🏷️ On the body: the Mi Band 1-5 has the serial number on the back (under the sensors or on the latch of the strap). The Mi Band 6-8 on the inside of the body (you need to remove the strap).
• 📦 On the package: barcode and model are indicated on the box (for example, XMSH15HM For the Mi Band 6).
• 📄 In documents: in a warranty card or check (if saved).

The serial number usually begins with a letter prefix that corresponds to the model:

If the serial number is erased or not readable, try scanning the barcode from the package through a scanner app (such as Barcode Scanner).

4.Bracelet menu: hidden data about the model

The bracelet itself contains information about the model, but it's not always easy to get to it.

• 🔄 Mi Band 1-4: Go to Settings → About the device (this may require several swipes up/down on the screen).
• 📱 Mi Band 5-8: Swipe down on the home screen → Settings → About the device → Version. This will show the model (e.g. Mi Smart Band 7) and the firmware version.

The Mi Band 6-8 has a hidden engineering menu that opens through a sequence of gestures:

Swipe Down → Press and Hold the Screen 5 Seconds → Swipe Up 3 Times

This menu displays Model ID (e.g. M2129B1 for Mi Band 7).

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If the bracelet menu displays the words Mi Band 6, but looks like Mi Band 7, most likely you have a fake firmware from the old model.

Determination by characteristics and sensors

Each Mi Band model has a unique set of specifications that can be identified by it.

Pay attention to the functionality:

- If the bracelet measures the level of oxygen in the blood (SpO₂), It is not exactly the Mi Band 7, but it does not have this feature).

NFC narrows the circle to Mi Band 5-8 in special versions (for example, Mi Band 6 NFC).

- Screen animations: Mi Band 8 has unique dynamic dials with a unique 3D-effects.

Try measuring. SpO₂ (if there is a function)|Run a heart rate test.|Check the work NFC (terminalize)|Compare water protection with a table-->

6. Alternative methods: if nothing has worked

If the standard methods didn’t work, try these non-obvious techniques:

• 🔌 Charger: The shape and number of contacts are unique to each model, for example, the Mi Band 6 has 6 contacts, and the Mi Band 5 has 5 contacts.
• 📦 Database comparison: upload a photo of the bracelet to the forums 4PDA or XDA Developers – experts will help identify the model.
• 🔧 Disassembly: carefully remove the strap and look at the board - it can be applied Model ID (for example, XMSH15HM).
• 🤖 Firmware: connect the bracelet to the PC via the Mi Fit Tool - the program will show the exact model when trying to firmware.

If you suspect that the bracelet is fake, pay attention to:

- Quality of assembly (the original has no backlashes and gaps).

Brightness of the screen (fakes often have a dim display).

Synchronization speed (the original connects to the application in 2-3 seconds).

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Fake Mi Bands often pose as Mi Band 6, but have a screen like the Mi Band 5 and no sensor SpO₂. Check these signs first!

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Many users confuse models because of the similarities or incorrect information in the app, and here are common misconceptions:

⚠️ Note: If the bracelet menu shows the Mi Band 6 but the screen is less than 1.5 inches, you either have a fake or a firmware bracelet from another model!

Other common mistakes:

Mi Band 5 and 6: Mi Band 5 has a 1.1 screen and Mi Band 6 has 1.56.

- NFC-Version: not all Mi Bands support contactless payment, for example, the regular Mi Band 7 does not have a contactless payment. NFC, Mi Band 7 NFC — yes.

- Firmware from another model: if the bracelet "gluts" after the update, most likely, the firmware was installed not for your version.

To avoid problems:

1. Always check the official specifications on the Xiaomi website.

2.Do not buy bracelets without packaging - the risk of running into a fake or used device with a worn-out battery.

3. Before you run the firmware, check the file compatibility with your model (for example, the firmware for Mi Band 6 will not work for Mi Band 7).

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If you bought a handheld bracelet and are not sure of its authenticity, check the serial number through Xiaomi support.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions