How to Turn on Xiaomi Mi Band 4: 5 Proven Ways

First inclusion and main issues

The Xiaomi Mi Band 4 fitness bracelet remains one of the most popular wearables due to its combination of functionality and affordable price. However, even with such a simple gadget, users often have difficulty turning on the first. The main problem is the lack of an obvious power button: the bracelet activates automatically when charging or after pressing the touch area. If the screen does not respond, it does not mean that it is broken yet β€” perhaps the battery is completely discharged or needs a reset.

In this article, we will look at all possible scenarios, from standard onset to recovery after a deep discharge, focus on common errors that prevent correct activation, such as using non-original chargers or improperly installing a bracelet in the docking station, and learn how to distinguish the Mi Band 4 from newer models (for example, Mi Band 5/6) by appearance and menu, so as not to confuse the instructions.

Method 1: Standard Energization through Charging

The most reliable way to activate the Mi Band 4 is to connect it to a charger, which should automatically turn on when the minimum charge level is reached (usually in 5-10 minutes).

  • πŸ”Œ Connect the bracelet to the original docking station (included).Non-original chargers may not provide the right contact.
  • ⚑ Connect the docking station to the power source (USB-port 5V/1A). Avoid powerful smartphone charges – they can damage the power controller of the bracelet.
  • ⏳ Wait 5-15 minutes. Charging animations (battery icon) should appear on the screen. If this does not happen, check the contacts on the bracelet and docking station - they should be clean and dry.
  • πŸ“± After charging appears, tap the touch button under the screen to unlock the bracelet.

If the bracelet does not respond to charging, try to clean the contacts with a soft toothbrush dipped in alcohol. Oxide film on the contacts is the most common reason for the bracelet to be invisible for the charger. Also make sure you use the dock from the Mi Band 4, and not from other models (for example, Mi Band 3 or 5), as the location of the contacts may vary.

Original docking station |Clean contacts on bracelet and charging |Power source 5V/1A (not fast charging) |Brecelet tightly mounted in docking station-->

Method 2: Forced button activation

If the bracelet doesn't turn on after charging, you can try forced activation through the touch button. This method works even if the charge level is critically low (but not zero).

  1. Remove the bracelet from the strap and examine the touch button below the screen – it should be clean and undamaged.
  2. Press and hold the touch area for 10-15 seconds, and the Mi logo and vibration should appear on the screen.
  3. If there is no reaction, repeat the action 3-5 times at intervals of 10 seconds. Sometimes it takes several attempts to trigger.
  4. After the logo appears, release the button - the bracelet will start in normal mode.

Important: Don’t confuse the touch button with the physical key on some models (for example, Mi Band 1S). In the Mi Band 4, the button is made as a touchpad under the display and has no mechanical pressing. If after 5 attempts the bracelet did not respond, move to the next method.

What to do if the button does not work?
If the touch button does not respond, this may indicate: (1) Damage to the screen plume (often after falls or moisture). (2) Software failure of the input controller. (3) Complete battery discharge below the critical level (requires charging within 30+ minutes).

Method 3: Enable via the Mi Fit application

If the bracelet doesn't turn on on itself, but it responds to charging (indicators are on), try activating it through the official Mi Fit or Zepp Life app (for new firmware), which is especially useful after a software update or reset.

  • πŸ“² Install the Mi Fit app (Android/iOS) Sign in through your Xiaomi account.
  • πŸ” Turn on Bluetooth on your smartphone and allow the application to access geodata (required for device search!).
  • βž• Press "Add device" β†’ "Bracelet" β†’ "Mi Smart Band 4".
  • πŸ”„ Follow the instructions on the screen. The app will try to wake up the bracelet via Bluetooth. LE.

If the bracelet is determined by the application, but does not turn on, try to do the binding again:

  1. In Mi Fit, go to Profile β†’ Mi Smart Band 4 β†’ Untie the device.
  2. Reset the bracelet (hold the touch button for 20 seconds until vibration).
  3. Repeat the procedure of adding the device.

Mi Fit|Zepp Life|Both take turns |The other |Not connecting to a smartphone-->

Method 4: Resetting (hard reset)

If the bracelet doesn't respond to either the charge or the button, it's likely that there's a software failure, and then a full reset will help, which removes all the data from the bracelet, including the account binding, but returns it to the factory settings.

  1. Place the bracelet on the charging station and connect it to the power source.
  2. Hold the touch button under the screen for 20-25 seconds (until the vibration lasts).
  3. Release the button. The Mi logo should appear on the screen, followed by the reset menu.
  4. Confirm the reset by touching the tick (if the menu appears).

After resetting, the bracelet will reset and be ready for a new setup. If the reset menu does not appear, repeat the procedure 2-3 times or try another power source (for example, USB-PC port instead of adapter).

⚠️ Warning: Resetting removes all data from the bracelet, including activity history and alarm settings.If the bracelet was tied to a Xiaomi account, you will need to re-authorize after the reset.

Problem.Possible causeDecision
The bracelet is not turned on after resetting.Insufficient battery chargeCharge the bracelet for 30+ minutes, then reset
Reset menu doesn't appearFirmware getting stuckHold the button for up to 30 seconds or use a different power source.
After resetting, the bracelet is not determined in Mi FitConflict of versionsUpdate the Mi Fit app to the latest version
The bracelet vibrates, but the screen does not turn onDamage to the display plumeContact the service center.

Method 5: Recovery from deep discharge

If the Mi Band 4 had been without charging for several months, its battery could have run out to such a level that standard charging does not help, in which case it requires "resuscitation" through cycling.

  • ⚑ Connect the bracelet to charging and leave for 1-2 hours, even if there is no indication.
  • πŸ”„ After 2 hours, turn off the charger, wait 1 minute and plug again.
  • πŸ•’ Repeat the cycle 3-4 times, which helps to wake up the power controller.
  • πŸ”‹ If so, 3–4 In cycles, the bracelet does not show signs of life, try using a charger from another device (for example, Redmi Note with output). 5V/2A), but not more than 30 minute.

If the bracelet doesn't turn on anyway, it's probably a firmware failure or battery damage, and that's where flashing through a special equipment (in a service center) or replacing the battery will help, and the average battery life of the Mi Band 4 is 2-3 years, after which it drops by 30-50%.

πŸ’‘

To extend the life of the battery, avoid full discharge of the bracelet, charge it at a level of 20-30% and do not leave on charging more than 2 hours after reaching 100%.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Many of the problems with the Mi Band 4 are caused by unobvious user errors, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

  • πŸ”Œ Use of non-original chargers: Docks from third-party manufacturers may not provide the required voltage or have incompatible pinning contacts. Always use original charging or certified analogues (for example, from Baseus or Anker).
  • πŸ’§ Moisture in contact despite the declared level of protection 5 ATM, salt and chlorine (such as after a pool) can oxidize contacts. After contact with water, wash the bracelet with fresh water and dry for 1-2 hours.
  • πŸ“± Older versions of Mi Fit (up to 4.6.0) don't support Mi Band 4 with the latest firmware. Update the app via Google Play or App Store.
  • πŸ”‹ Storage in a discharged state: If you leave the bracelet discharged for several months, the battery may lose its ability to hold a charge. Charge the device at least once every 1-2 months, even if you do not use it.

Another common mistake is to try to turn on the bracelet immediately after you buy it without removing the protective film from the charging contacts. Check the dock and the bracelet: the contacts often have transparent film that is easy to miss. Also check if any contact is bent, which can prevent normal charging.

πŸ’‘

If the bracelet doesn’t turn on after all the manipulations, check it on another smartphone with the Mi Fit installed. Sometimes the problem lies in your phone’s Bluetooth module, not in the Mi Band 4 itself.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions

My Mi Band 4 doesn't turn on after the firmware update.
If the bracelet stopped responding after the update, there was likely an error when installing the software. Try: Hold the touch button for 20 seconds to reset. Connect the bracelet to charging and wait for automatic recovery (it can take up to 30 minutes). If it does not help, roll back the firmware through Mi Fit (in the bracelet settings, select "Update firmware" and wait for the offer to roll back). If the bracelet still does not work, contact Xiaomi with the firmware version (it can be seen in Mi Fit before reset).
How to distinguish Mi Band 4 from Mi Band 5 in appearance?
The Mi Band 4 and Mi Band 5 are visually very similar, but there are key differences: The screen: the Mi Band 4 has a smaller display (0.95" vs. 1.1" in the 5th model) and has a physical touch button under the screen. The Mi Band 5 has a touch button but is integrated into the display. Charging: Mi Band 4 has contacts on the back of the body, and Mi Band 5 has magnetic charging (cable is attracted to the bracelet). PAI (The personal activity index, which is in the 5th model, is also on the box and in the bracelet settings, and the model is shown: XMSH08HM for Mi Band 4 and XMSH10HM For the Mi Band 5.
Can I turn on the Mi Band 4 without a charger?
Technically, yes, but it requires disassembling the bracelet and connecting the contacts to a 3.7V power source (for example, through a laboratory power supply). However, this method: It is warranty-free (if it is still valid), can damage the power controller if you do not connect correctly. It requires soldering skills (the contacts are very small), it is much safer to buy an original docking station (costs about 500-700 rubles) or contact a service center.
How long does it take to charge the Mi Band 4 for the first time?
When you first turn on, it is recommended to charge the bracelet for at least 2-3 hours, even if the indicator shows 100%. This is due to: Calibration of the power controller (determines the actual capacity of the battery); Installation of firmware updates (if the bracelet is new); Stabilization of the sensors (pulsemeter, accelerometer); After the first full charge, the charging time is reduced to 1-1.5 hours (from 0 to 100%).
Why does Mi Band 4 discharge quickly after switching on?
If the bracelet discharges in 1-2 days, check the following settings in Mi Fit: Sync frequency: set Autosynchronization no more than once every 30 minutes. Notifications: turn off unnecessary alerts (e.g. from social media). Screenlight: reduce display time to 5 seconds and turn off the lifting of your hand for activation. Sensors: deactivate a constant pulse (only during training). If the problem remains, check battery wear in the wristband menu: Settings β†’ Phone β†’ Battery status. At the lower 60% recommended.