How to remove the strap from Xiaomi Redmi Watch 2 Lite: 3 proven ways + choice of replacement

Xiaomi Redmi Watch 2 Lite smartwatches have become popular thanks to a combination of functionality and affordable price, but even such a reliable gadget requires care. One of the most common questions owners ask is how to remove the strap to replace it with a new one or clean contacts. At first glance, the procedure seems simple, but ignorance of the nuances can damage the latches or watch case. In this article, we will discuss all official and alternative methods, as well as give recommendations for choosing compatible straps.

The Redmi Watch 2 Lite features a spring-pined quick-removal mechanism that is different from the classic fitness bracelet fasteners. If you’ve previously only encountered the Mi Band or other Xiaomi devices, a different approach is required. We’ve analyzed user reviews, manufacturer instructions and service centers’ experience to gather the most comprehensive and up-to-date information on this topic for 2026.

Preparation for removing the strap: what will be needed

Before you start dismantling, make sure you have everything you need. Most Redmi Watch 2 Lite owners face a problem due to lack of suitable tools or the wrong choice of replacement.

  • πŸ”§ Flat screwdriver with a thin sting (suitable for watches or glasses) is the main tool for pressing on the fixers.
  • 🧲 Magnetic substrate or small magnet – to avoid losing spring pins (they are very small!).
  • πŸ“ Line or bar - to measure the width of the strap (standard for this model - 20 mm).
  • 🧴 Alcohol wipes – to clear contacts and grooves of dust and sweat.

If you plan to install a non-original strap, check its compatibility in advance. Many Chinese counterparts have an inaccurate fit, which leads to backlash or difficulty removing. The original straps from Xiaomi are marked with articles BHR4266GL (silicon black) and BHR4267GL (silicon white).

πŸ“Š Which band do you prefer for smart watches?
Silicone (sports)
Leather (classic)
Metal (Milanian weaving)
Tissue (nylon)

Important: if you're taking off your strap for the first time, do it in good light. Spring pins have the ability to "fire" when pressed carelessly, and their loss will make the strap unusable. Service centers charge 300 to 800 rubles for replacing a lost pin depending on the region.

Method 1: Standard Screwdriver Removal (official method)

This is the safest and most recommended method by the manufacturer, and it's suitable for the original silicone straps that come with the watch.

  1. Place the watch down on a soft surface (such as a towel) to avoid scratching the glass.
  2. Find on the back of the strap a small hole next to the mount - this is access to the spring pin.
  3. Insert the tip of the screwdriver into the hole and gently press towards the body until you hear a click.
  4. Pull the strap aside - it should easily come out of the groove.

Repeat the same procedure for the second side. Note: on the Redmi Watch 2 Lite, the pins are of different lengths - the left is 1-1.5 mm shorter than the right one. This is done to prevent the strap from skewing when you wear it. When you reverse install them, don't confuse them with places!

β˜‘οΈ Checklist for safe removal of the strap

Done: 0 / 4

⚠️ Warning: Do not use sharp-edged metal objects (needles, knives, scissors) to press the pins, which can damage the plastic case of the watch or cut the silicone strap.

Method 2: Alternative method without tools (for emergencies)

If you don't have a screwdriver on hand, you can try removing the strap with the help of improvised tools, which is suitable for temporary replacement or when you need to clean the contacts urgently.

  • πŸ“Ž Paperclip (unbended) or toothpick.
  • 🧲 Neodymium magnet (optional, for pin retention).

Instructions:

  1. Untighten the paperclip so that you get a straight end of 3-4 cm.
  2. Put it in the pin hole and push it to the side, while pulling the strap on yourself.
  3. If the pin fails, try swaying the clip left-right to move the lock.

This method requires more effort and dexterity, because the paperclip is less stable than the screwdriver. The risk of losing the pin increases by 30-40%, so use the method only as a last resort. If the strap is not removed after 3-4 attempts, stop and use the screwdriver.

What if the pin is jammed?
If the spring pin fails to work out despite all the effort, it may be deformed or dirt has fallen into the groove. In this case: 1. Apply a drop of WD-40 or alcohol to the hole. 2. Wait 5-10 minutes. 3. Try again with the screwdriver. If it doesn't work, contact the service, as it may require a replacement mount.

Method 3: Replacement of a strap with non-standard fastening (for non-original models)

Many users have other manufacturers' straps on the Redmi Watch 2 Lite, such as the Amazfit or the universal 20mm bracelets, which often have alternative mounting systems:

Type of attachmentCompatible with Redmi Watch 2 LiteFeatures of withdrawal
Spring bars (spring bars)Yeah (original)Requires screwdrivers, as in Method 1
Quick release (quick release)Partially (requires adapters)Press the button on the side and pull
Screw pinsNo (damages the body)Requires mini screwdrivers to twist
Velcros (for fabric straps)Yes (top only)Just unfasten, but fixation is unreliable

Fast-removal straps (such as those from the Samsung Galaxy Watch) will require transition adapters, which can be found on AliExpress for "20mm to 22mm watch adapter." Note that such adapters increase the thickness of the attachment by 1.5-2 mm, which can interfere with the tight fit to the wrist.

⚠️ Warning: Non-original straps with metal fasteners can scratch the watch body with frequent removals. If you plan to change bracelets often, use a protective film on the case or silicone pads.

How to choose a new strap: compatibility and materials

When choosing a replacement for the Redmi Watch 2 Lite, pay attention to three key parameters:

  1. The width of the mounting should be exactly 20 mm. straps for 18 mm or 22 mm will not fit without adapters.
  2. Materials: πŸƒ Silicone is the best choice for sports (no sweat absorbs, easy to wash). πŸ‘” Skin is suitable for the office, but is afraid of moisture. πŸ”— Metal (Milanian weaving) - stylish, but heavier and can rub. 🧡 Nylon/tissue – light and breathable, but quickly gets dirty.

Length

110-190 mm

20 cm

Popular brands of compatible straps:

  • 🌟 Barthel - premium leather straps with adapters under 20 mm.
  • πŸ† UAG β€” Strong silicone bracelets for extreme conditions.
  • πŸ’Ž Skagen – metal mesh straps with quick replacement.

πŸ’‘

Before buying a strap, check the reviews about compatibility with the Redmi Watch 2 Lite. Some Chinese sellers indicate the wrong width of the mount. For example, the straps for the Huawei Watch GT 2 are similar in appearance, but are 22 mm wide and will not work without an adapter.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when changing straps, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

  1. Losing a spring pin – always work on a soft surface (like a mouse mat) and use a magnet. If the pin is lost, it can be replaced with a similar one from other watches (like the Mi Band 6, which are identical in size).
  2. Band skewing: This occurs when the pins are asymmetrically mounted. Before fixing, make sure that both ends of the strap are at the same level relative to the body.
  3. Latch damage - do not apply excessive force when pressing the pin. If the strap is not removed, it is better to contact the service than to break the mount.
  4. Contact incompatibility – some non-original straps may overlap the heart rate sensor. Before buying, check if there is a notch under the sensor.

If the watch stops syncing with the phone after the band is replaced, check:

  • πŸ“± Density of fit - the strap should not hang, otherwise the charging contacts may not touch.
  • πŸ”‹ Clean connector – wipe the contacts on the clock and docking station with alcohol.
  • πŸ”„ Reboot – sometimes resetting the connection in the Mi Fitness app helps.

πŸ’‘

If the pulse sensor starts showing incorrect data after the strap is replaced, check if the new bracelet is blocked by an optical sensor on the back of the watch. For accurate measurements, there should be a space of ~1 mm between the strap and the skin.

Care for the strap and fasteners: extending the service life

To ensure that the strap and fastening mechanism last longer, follow these recommendations:

  • 🚿 Clean: Wash silicone straps with warm water and soap once a week. Clean the leather with a wet wipe and treat them with a special cream (e.g. Apple Leather Cleaner).
  • πŸ”₯ Drying: After getting wet (rain, pool, shower) remove your watch and dry the strap away from direct sunlight. Ultraviolet destroys silicone and paint on leather products.
  • πŸ”§ Lubricant: Once in a while 3-4 Apply a drop of silicone lubricant for a month (not to be confused with the WD-40!) The stains will prevent them from getting stuck.
  • πŸ”„ Rotation: If you wear a watch daily, wear at least two straps (like silicone for exercise and leather for work) and alternate them.

For metal straps such as Milan weaving, use an ultrasonic bath with a solution for jewelry - this will remove sweat and dirt from hard-to-reach places. Avoid aggressive chemicals (such as acetone), as they can damage the coating of the watch case.

Can I use the Xiaomi Mi Watch or Amazfit GTS 2?
No, these models have a mount width of 22 mm, while the Redmi Watch 2 Lite is 20 mm. They will require transition adapters to install them, but this does not guarantee a tight fit.
What if the watch does not charge after the change of the strap?
The new strap is likely to interfere with the docking station contacts. Check: The density of the watch to charge - there should be no gap between the case and the docking station. The purity of the contacts - wipe them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. The strap compatibility - some metal bracelets have thickenings at the mounting site. If the problem persists, try charging the watch without the strap.
Which is the most durable for daily wear?
For heavy use, the best fit is silicone strap from Xiaomi (article BHR4266GL) or analogues from UAG. They are resistant to sweat, water and mechanical damage. The average life is 1.5-2 years with proper care. Leather straps last longer (up to 3 years), but require careful care.
Can you install a strap with a different type of mounting (for example, NATO)?summary> Technically yes, but it will require modification. NATO or Zulu straps are attached through pass hinges that are not found in the standard Redmi Watch 2 Lite case. You will have to: Remove the original pins and install elongated spring pins (25-28 mm long). Drill holes in the strap under the pins (ifles are not available). Use protective washers to avoid scratching the body. This process irreversibly changes the warranty.
Where to buy the original Redmi Watch 2 Lite?
Official straps can be purchased: πŸ›’ In Xiaomi’s branded stores (for example, Mi Store). 🌍 On the official website mi.com (section "Accessories"). πŸ“¦ On sites with a guarantee of originality: AliExpress (sellers with a rating) >98%), Beru, Ozon (look for the articles) BHR4266GL/BHR4267GL). The cost of the original strap - from 500 before 1200 ruble depending on the material.