Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus (codenamed vincent) is a popular smartphone of 2017, which is still used by many users. However, after upgrading to new versions of MIUI (especially MIUI 12+ based on Android 9/10), owners often encounter brakes, bugs or application incompatibility, in which case the logical solution is to roll back the firmware to a more stable version.
In this article, we will discuss three proven downgrade methods (via Fastboot, Recovery and MIUI bootloader), elaborate on preparation, risks and typical errors. Special attention will be paid to the Redmi 5 Plus model, since its hardware limitations (the Snapdragon 625 processor, 3/4 GB of RAM) require caution when manipulating firmware. If you have never worked with ADB or Fastboot, do not worry: the instructions are adapted for beginners, with step-by-step screenshots and explanation of terms.
⚠️ Warning: Rolling back the firmware can lead to data loss, bootloader locking, or even a device "brick." On the Redmi 5 Plus with the unlocked bootloader, the risk is minimal, but the locked version (factory lock) will require official permission from Xiaomi. Before starting, make sure to back up through Mi. PC suite TWRP.
1. Preparation for the rollback of the firmware: what to do before the start
Before you start downgrade, make sure that all the preliminary steps are followed, which will save time and reduce the risk of errors.
Basic requirements:
- 🔋 Battery charge at least 60% (optimally — 80-100%). When discharged during firmware, the device can turn into a “brick".
- 🖥️ Windows computer 7/10/11 (for the Fastboot method) or Mac/Linux (driverless ADB).
- 📱 Unlocked Bootloader: Check status with fastboot oem device-info (if Device unlocked: true, it's okay).
- 🔗 Cable USB Type-C (original or high-quality) cheap cables can interrupt data transmission.
It will also be necessary:
- 📁 Firmware (Fastboot) ROM or recovery ROM) Download only from official sources: Official website MIUI (Choose a Global Region, EEA Xiaomi Firmware Updater (alternative archive with version history).
- 🛠️ Tools: Platform Tools (ADB & Fastboot by Google. TWRP Recovery (optional, for backup) Mi Flash Tool (for Fastboot firmware).
Important: Redmi 5 Plus cannot be rolled back to the version below MIUI 9.5 (Android 7.1.2) without the risk of losing support for modern applications (such as WhatsApp or Google Pay — MIUI 10.3.2.0 (Android 8.1) or MIUI 11.0.2.0 (Android 9).
Download the firmware for your model (vincent)|Check the battery charge (>60%)|Install the drivers ADB/Fastboot|The boot loader (if locked)|Create a backup copy of the data-->
2. Method 1: Recoil through Fastboot (recommended for power users)
The Fastboot method is the most reliable, but requires an unlocked bootloader and computer, suitable for rollback on any version of MIUI, including a downgrade from Android 10 on Android 9/8.
Step-by-step:
- Download Fastboot ROM for Redmi 5 Plus (file with.tgz extension) and unpack it in folder C:\MIUI\.
- Connect your phone to your PC in Fastboot mode: Turn off the device. Press Volume down + Power before the Fastboot logo appears.
Open the command line (Win + R → cmd) and go to the firmware folder:
cd C:\MIUI\Run the firmware with the command:
fastboot flash allNote:
images_
fastboot flash all -wThe -w flag will reset data (recommended to avoid conflict).
Wait until it's finished (the process will take 5-10 minutes) and the phone will reboot automatically.
Typical errors and decisions:
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| FAILED (remote: 'Flashing is not allowed in Locked State') | The boot loader is locked (Bootloader Locked) | Unlock the bootloader via Mi Unlock Tool (requires a Mi Account and wait 72-168 hours). |
| FAILED (remote: 'Partition not found') | Incompatible firmware (for example, for Redmi Note 5 instead of Redmi 5 Plus) | Download the firmware specifically for the vincent model. |
| The phone does not turn on after the firmware | Misconception of MIUI or interrupted process | Repeat the firmware or use the Mi Flash Tool in Clean All mode. |
💡
If you've got the phone stuck on the MI logo after you've done it, press Volume Up + Power for 10 seconds to force it to reboot. If it doesn't work, repeat the process with the -w flag.
Method 2: Recovery (without computer)
This is easier, but only works if:
- 🔄 You have a re-covery (not a re-covery) setup. TWRP).
- 📥 You download Recovery. ROM (zip file, not.tgz).
- 🔒 The current firmware does not block downgrade (on the MIUI 12+ may require circumvention of protection).
Instructions:
- Download Recovery ROM for Redmi 5 Plus and rename the file to update.zip.
- Move the file to the phone’s root directory (not to folders!).
- Go to Recovery: Turn off your phone. Press Volume up + Power before the Recovery menu appears.
Select the language (if available), then: Install update.zip to System → confirm the choice.
After you complete the process, select Reboot to System.
⚠️ Note: On some versions MIUI 11/12 Stock Recovery blocks the installation of old firmware. If the error "Couldn't verify package" appears, use the Method 1 (Fastboot) or install TWRP circumvention.
How to avoid the "Couldn't Verify Package" error in Recovery
4. Method 3: Recoil through MIUI bootloader (for beginners)
If the first two methods seem complicated, you can use the MIUI bootloader utility, which automates downloading and installing firmware, but this method only works for official stable builds and requires an unlocked bootloader.
Algorithm of action:
- Download and install MIUI bootloader.
- Select the Redmi 5 Plus model (vincent) and the desired MIUI version (e.g. V10.3.2.0.OEGMIXM for Android 8.1).
- Click Download and wait for the Fastboot ROM to load.
- Connect your phone in Fastboot mode (as in Method 1) and press Flash in the program.
4. Loss of root rights or TWRP
When rolled back to stock firmware, TWRP and Magisk will be removed. To save root:
- Before firmware, create a backup Boot.img via TWRP.
- After the rollback, re-sweeten Magisk via TWRP or Fastboot.