Where in Xiaomi Redmi 8 is a slot for SD-maps: location, installation instructions and nuances

Why can’t Redmi 8 owners find a memory card slot?

Xiaomi Redmi 8, released in 2019, has become one of the most popular budget devices due to its combination of performance and affordable price. SD-cards, despite the official support for expanding memory to 512 GB. the reason lies in the non-standard location of the tray and design features.

Unlike later Redmi models, where the memory card slot is placed on a separate tray, in Redmi 8 it is combined with a tray for the memory card. SIM-This solution saved space inside the case, but created confusion: users often mistake the hybrid tray for a regular holder. SIM And they don't notice the extra microSD connector, and the phone manual doesn't give you enough detail on that.

Another common mistake is trying to insert a memory card in the wrong direction or using an SD→microSD adapter without checking compatibility, which results in the smartphone not recognizing the drive, and the user mistakenly thinks that the slot is missing or defective, then we will analyze where to look for the connector, how to install the card correctly and what nuances are important to consider.

πŸ“Š You've tried to insert. SD-map in Redmi 8?
Yeah, but the phone doesn't see her.
No, I don't know where the slot is.
Yeah, it's working.
I tried, but the map got stuck.

Where exactly is the slot for SD-Maps in Xiaomi Redmi 8?

In Xiaomi Redmi 8, the microSD slot is located on the left side of the body and is combined with a tray for two nano-SIM. This is the so-called hybrid slot, where you can use either two. SIM-card SIM + The physical tray is a retractable metal plate with three slots:

  • πŸ“± Upper slot - for the first nano-SIM (SIM1);
  • πŸ“± Middle slot - for the second nano-SIM (SIM2) microSD;
  • πŸ“± Lower slot – only for microSD (if one is used) SIM).

Important: insert two at the same time SIM-maps SD-You can't have a card, you have to choose between the second one. SIM To open the tray, you'll need a paper clip or a special key (complete with your phone), and the extraction hole is next to the tray.

πŸ’‘

If you don't have a paper clip, you can use an unbended stationery brace or a thin needle, and the key is not to push too hard so as not to damage the mechanism.

Step-by-step instruction: how to insert SD-map in Redmi 8

The process of installing the memory card takes no more than a minute, but requires care.

  1. Turn off your phone (optional, but recommended for safety).
  2. Find a hole on the left side of the case to extract the tray (near the volume buttons).
  3. Insert the paperclip into the hole and press until the click - the tray will push out a little.
  4. Take the tray out of the corner, just the side edges!
  5. Place the tray on a flat surface and place the memory card in the lower slot (contacts down).
  6. If you use one SIM, Put it in the top slot. SIM + SD You have to choose your priority.
  7. Put the tray back before you click (make sure it sits straight!).

β˜‘οΈ Preparation for installation SD-map

Done: 0 / 4

When you turn on your phone, you will notice a new memory card. Go to Settings β†’ Memory to format it (if required) or configure it as portable storage or internal memory.

⚠️ Warning: If the phone doesn't see the card, check if it's inserted correctly (contacts should be directed inside the phone). Also make sure the card is compatible - Redmi 8 supports microSD up to 512GB of format FAT32 exFAT.

What are they? SD-Maps are suitable for Xiaomi Redmi 8: compatibility table

Not all memory cards work equally well with Redmi 8. The manufacturer recommends using microSD classes UHS-I or Class 10 for stable read/write speeds.

Brand and modelCapacityClass speedCompatible with Redmi 8Notes
SanDisk Ultra64GB/128GBClass 10 / UHS-Iβœ… Complete.Best option for price/quality
Samsung EVO Plus32 GB - 512 GBUHS-I (U3)βœ… Complete.High recording speed (up to 100 MB/s)
Kingston Canvas Select16 GB - 128 GBClass 10βœ… Complete.Budget option, but slower on record
Transcend Premium64 GB - 256 GBUHS-I (U1)⚠️ PartialThere may be delays when recording 4K video
No-name (no brand)Anybody.Anybody.❌ Not recommendedRisk of data loss and slow operation

For recording video in Full HD or 4K resolution, it is better to choose cards labeled U3 or V30 - they provide a minimum recording speed of 30 MB / s, which is critical for stable camera operation.

What happens if you use a Class 4 card?
Such cards have a write speed below 10 MB / s, which will lead to jerks when shooting videos, long processing of photos and possible errors when installing applications on the Internet. SD-map.

Frequent mistakes when working with SD-Redmi 8 map and how to avoid them

Even after installing the memory card correctly, users face problems, and here are the most common errors and solutions:

  • πŸ”„ Phone does not see card: Check if display is enabled SD In Settings β†’ Memory. Reboot your phone. Try formatting the card on your PC. FAT32 (If the capacity is up to 32 GB) or exFAT (if more).
  • 🚫 The card is defined as corrupt: Do not remove the card while writing data. Use secure extraction in Android settings. Check the card on another device β€” it may be physically damaged.
  • 🐒 Slow work: Class cards 4/6 Not suitable for modern smartphones. Move frequently used applications to internal memory. Clear the cache to Settings. β†’ Memory. β†’ Cleanup.

⚠️ Attention: If you are using SD-The card as internal memory (the option "Format as internal drive"), then after extracting the card, the applications on it will cease to work!

How to transfer data to SD-Map in Redmi 8: photos, videos, applications

Once you have a memory card installed, it makes sense to transfer heavy files to it to free up internal memory. In Redmi 8, you can do this in a number of ways:

1. Photo and video transfer

Open the Gallery app, select files β†’ Press Share. β†’ Save it on. SD-Alternatively, it's a map:

  1. Connect your phone to your PC via USB.
  2. In file transfer mode (MTP), copy the DCIM and Pictures folders to the memory card.

2. Portability of annexes

Not all apps support SD portability, but you can try:

  1. Go to Settings β†’ Applications.
  2. Select the application β†’ Warehouse β†’ Change. β†’ SD-map.
  3. Confirm the transfer (part of the data may remain in internal memory).

πŸ’‘

Applications with high performance requirements (games, instant messengers) are better not to transfer to the Internet. SD-map - this can cause lags.

3. Automatic saving on SD

To make sure that new photos and videos are immediately saved to the map:

  1. Open the chamber. β†’ press on βš™οΈ Settings.
  2. Select a Retention Site β†’ SD-map.

What to do if SD-The card is stuck in the Redmi 8 slot?

It's rare to have a memory card or tray stuck in a phone, but it can cause panic. Don't try to pull it out by force, it will damage your contacts or break the mechanism.

  1. Turn off the phone – this will prevent short circuit during manipulation.
  2. Take a flat screwdriver (or nail) and gently press the tray from the side, trying to move it outwards.
  3. If the tray is pushed out halfway, put it on a plastic card (not metal!).
  4. When stuck microSD inside the slot (without tray) contact the service center – self-extraction is fraught with damage to the motherboard.

⚠️ Warning: If the tray does not lock back or dangle after removal, this is a sign of a latch breakage. ~300-500 rubles in the service).

To prevent getting stuck:

  • πŸ› οΈ Before installing the card, clean its contacts from dust with a soft cloth.
  • πŸ”„ Do not insert the tray crooked - it should enter smoothly and effortlessly.
  • 🚫 Avoid using cards with damaged body (cracks, chips).

FAQ: Answers to frequent questions about SD-Maps in Xiaomi Redmi 8

Can I use it? SD-map as an internal memory?
Yes, but with reservations. When formatting the card as an internal drive (Settings) β†’ Memory. β†’ SD-map β†’ Three points. β†’ Settings β†’ Internal memory, which is encrypted and linked to the phone, and when it's extracted, it's not available on other devices, and it can slow down some applications.
Why Redmi 8 doesn’t support two SIM-maps SD simultaneously?
This is a hybrid slot limitation: there is physical room in the tray for either a second SIM or a microSD. This solution has made the phone thinner and cheaper. If you need two SIMs and a memory extension, consider models with a separate SD slot (for example, the Redmi Note 8 Pro).
What's the maximum capacity? SD-cards supported?
Officially, up to 512 GB. However, in practice, cards with a capacity of 256 GB and higher can run slower due to the limitations of the memory controller in the Redmi 8. UHS-I.
Can I transfer WhatsApp to WhatsApp? SD-map?
Partially. The app itself cannot be moved, but media files (photos, videos, voice messages) can be saved to a map. β†’ Warehouse β†’ Keep in SD-You can also manually move the folder. WhatsApp/Media memory-card.
What to do if after installation SD-The phone's been slowing down?
Probable reasons: Low-end card (Class 4/6) - replace with Class 10/UHS-I. Remove system applications - return them to internal memory. Map fragmented - format it (pre-copy data!).