How to insert Xiaomi Mi Band 4 in a strap: instructions with photos and tips for choosing accessories

The Xiaomi Mi Band 4 fitness bracelet remains one of the most popular activity tracking gadgets, despite the release of new models, its main advantage is interchangeable straps that allow you to personalize the device to any style, but many users have difficulties with the first installation of the capsule in the strap, especially if the accessory is unoriginal or with a non-standard attachment.

In this article, we will discuss the step-by-step installation process, the nuances of strap selection (including silicone, metal and leather), and warn against typical errors that can lead to a latch break or loss of a gadget.

It is worth noting that the manual is also suitable for the Mi Band 5/6 โ€“ their capsules have a similar mount. But if you have a newer model (for example, the Mi Smart Band 7 Pro), the locking mechanism may be different โ€“ check compatibility before buying the strap.

๐Ÿ“Š What kind of band do you use for Mi Band 4?
The original silicone.
Metallic Milanese
Leathery
Fabric
Other

Preparation: What will be required for installation

Before you start editing, make sure you have everything you need. Here's the minimum set:

  • ๐Ÿ”น Xiaomi Mi Band 4 capsule (taken out of factory strap or packaging).
  • ๐Ÿ”น New strap with suitable fastening (standard - 20 mm width).
  • ๐Ÿ”น Flat screwdriver or plastic spatula (for some metal straps).
  • ๐Ÿ”น Clean wipe (so as not to scratch the screen when installing).

If you buy the strap separately, look at the type of strap that you have, the Mi Band 4 uses a system with two guide grooves and a latch on top, and the non-original accessories can have a slightly different mechanism, like side locks instead of the top latch, and the installation process will be different.

Important! Before buying, check if the strap supports a 20mm capsule.Some brands (like Amazfit or Huawei) use different standards and their accessories won't be suitable for the Mi Band.

๐Ÿ’ก

If you buy a strap on AliExpress or in unofficial stores, look in the description for the phrase "Compatible with Xiaomi Mi Band 4".

2.How to remove the capsule from an old strap

If your Mi Band 4 is still in the factory strap, you need to carefully remove the capsule first.

  1. Place the bracelet on a flat surface with the screen up.
  2. Find a small plastic latch on the back of the strap (usually closer to the edge).
  3. Carefully press it with your nail or flat screwdriver in the direction from the capsule (not down!).
  4. The capsule has to slip out of the slots. If it doesn't work, don't force it, check if the latch is locked.

โš ๏ธ Warning: Don't pull the capsule behind the screen or touch button - this can damage the plumes inside.

If the latch is broken or the strap is too tight, try to heat it slightly with a hair dryer (not higher than 50 ยฐ C) - the silicone will become softer. But don't overdo it: overheating can deform the plastic of the capsule.

What to do if the latch breaks?
If the plastic latch breaks, try to remove the capsule with a thin screwdriver, pulling it from the side, in extreme cases, you can carefully cut the strap with a knife (if you already do not need it).

3. Step-by-step instruction: how to insert Mi Band 4 into a new strap

Now, to the main thing - install the capsule in a new accessory. Follow the instructions and photos (if you have them in your strap):

  • ๐Ÿ“Œ Place the strap on the table facing down (where the mounting is).
  • ๐Ÿ“Œ Combine the capsule with the grooves on the strap. The original accessories have arrow marks or inscriptions on them"TOP".
  • ๐Ÿ“Œ Carefully insert the capsule into the slots, starting from the side where the latch is located.
  • ๐Ÿ“Œ Press the capsule before clicking - this means that the lock is in place.

If the strap is metal (e.g. Milanese), the process may be different:

  1. Distangle the magnetic ends of the strap to the sides.
  2. Insert the capsule in a special adapter (includes).
  3. Fix the adapter on the strap with a screw (use a screwdriver from the kit).

โš ๏ธ Note: Some metal straps require mandatory calibration after installation. Open the Mi Fit app, go to Profile โ†’ Mi Band 4 โ†’ Settings โ†’ Calibration of the bracelet and follow the instructions on the screen.

โ˜‘๏ธ Checking the correct installation

Done: 0 / 4

4.How to choose a strap for Mi Band 4: materials and dimensions

The correct choice of strap depends not only on the appearance, but also on the ease of wearing, as well as the accuracy of sensors (for example, a pulsemeter).

Band typePlusesConsPrice (average)
Silicone (original)Light, water resistant, hypoallergenicMarky, it can stretch.300โ€“600 โ‚ฝ
Metallic MilaneseStylish, durable, adjustable lengthHeavy, can rub the skin.800โ€“1500 โ‚ฝ
LeatheryPremium view, suitable for the officeFear of water, needs care700โ€“1200 โ‚ฝ
Tissue (nylon)Breathing, light, not rubbing.It's dusty, hard to clean.400โ€“900 โ‚ฝ

When choosing, pay attention to:

  • ๐Ÿ” Size: The standard length of the original strap is 180-220 mm. If your wrist is thinner or wider, look for models with adjustments.
  • ๐Ÿ” Width: Must be exactly 20 mm - otherwise the capsule will not fit.
  • ๐Ÿ” Sensor compatibility: Metal straps can interfere with the pulsemeter. In this case, choose models with a sensor hole.

๐Ÿ’ก Tip: If you play sports, give preference to silicone or fabric straps - they do not rub the skin with active movements and are not afraid of sweat.

5. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the apparent ease of installation, many users make mistakes that lead to a latch break or the bracelet is lost.

  • โŒ Severe pressure when installed: If the capsule does not enter easily, do not press it - check if the grooves are correctly aligned. Forced pressing can break the plastic lock.
  • โŒ Using incompatible straps: For example, trying to insert the Mi Band 4 into a strap from the Huawei Band 6 (they have different capsule widths).
  • โŒ Sock without calibration: After changing the strap (especially metal) sensors may show incorrect data.
  • โŒ Contact with aggressive substances: Alcohol, acetone or household chemicals can eat silicone or damage the capsule coating.

โš ๏ธ Note: If after installation the bracelet began to unfasten spontaneously, check:

  1. Is the slat on the strap worn (especially if it is used)?
  2. Did not the object (hair, thread, dust) fall under the fixator of porridge?
  3. Is the capsule too loosely sitting (possibly, the strap is unoriginal and has a backlash).

In case of a latch breakage, it can be replaced by buying a repair kit on AliExpress (cost is about 200-300). โ‚ฝ). However, it requires accuracy and skills to work with small details.

๐Ÿ’ก

If the bracelet is unfastened when wearing, try to put the strap on the other side (change sides) - sometimes this solves the problem with fixation.

6 How to care for the strap and capsule Mi Band 4

To make your bracelet last longer, follow simple rules of care:

  • ๐Ÿงผ Clean: Wash silicone straps with warm water and soap 1-2 times a week. Metal and leather wipe with a wet wipe, avoiding moisture in the capsule.
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Charging: Before connecting to the charger, remove the capsule from the strap - this will reduce the load on the contacts.
  • ๐ŸŒž Storage: Do not leave the bracelet in direct sunlight or near heat sources (e.g. on the dashboard of a car).
  • ๐ŸŠ Waterproof: Mi Band 4 has 5 protections ATM, But after bathing in salt or chlorinated water, rinse it with fresh water.

โš ๏ธ Attention: If you use a leather strap, avoid contact with water, this will lead to deformation of the material.

For deep cleaning of the capsule contacts (if the bracelet is not charging well), use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol. Do not use abrasive materials or needles - this will damage the gilded contacts.

7.Where to buy quality straps for Mi Band 4

The original Xiaomi straps can be found in branded stores or on official sites (for example, Mi Store, AliExpress Official Store), but their range is limited and prices are often overpriced.

  • ๐Ÿ›’ AliExpress: a large selection of non-original straps at a price of 200 โ‚ฝ. Look for sellers with a rating above 98% and reviews with photos.
  • ๐Ÿ›’ Yandex Market / Ozon: Fast delivery, but prices are higher than on AliExpress. Pay attention to the description - some straps can be versatile (for example, under the Mi Band). 4/5/6).
  • ๐Ÿ›’ Local accessories stores: For example, the Messenger or MTS. Here you can touch the strap before buying, but the choice is limited.

๐Ÿ’ก Tip: When buying on AliExpress, pay attention to the material of the retainer. Cheap straps are often equipped with fragile plastic latches that break after 1-2 months. LIGE).

If you want to save money, look for lots marked "2 in 1" or "3 in 1" - they often sell sets of several straps of different colors for the price of one original.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the bands for Mi Band 4

Can I use the Mi Band 5 band for the Mi Band 4?
Yes, the Mi Band 4 and Mi Band 5 capsules are the same size and fastening (20mm).However, the Mi Band 5 capsule is a little thinner, so some straps may have a little backlash.
Why does the bracelet unfasten itself?
This is the problem of the non-original straps with weak latches. Try: Change the sides of the strap in places (sometimes helps); put a thin gasket under the capsule (for example, a piece of plastic); buy a new strap with a metal latch; if nothing helps, the lock is broken, you need to replace.
Which strap is best for sport?
For training, silicone or fabric straps are optimal: Silicone does not absorb sweat and is easy to wash; fabric (nylon) is better at letting air through, but can be rubbed under prolonged loads; Metal straps are not recommended, they are heavy and can heat up.
Can I wear the Mi Band 4 without a strap?
Technically, yes, but it's uncomfortable and unsafe, it's slippery, it's easy to drop, and if the strap is broken, you can temporarily attach the bracelet to your arm with a hair gum or Velcro, but you'd better buy a new accessory as soon as possible.
How to repair a broken latch on the strap?
If the plastic latch is cracked, you can temporarily fix it with: Moment glue (dotted without hitting the capsule), thin wire or paper clip inserted into the lock hole, but this is a temporary solution. For reliable fixation, you better buy a new strap.