Why Redmi 4A is slowing down and how to fix it
Xiaomi Redmi 4A, released in 2016, is still a popular budget device, but over the years, even this βunkillableβ device begins to slow down: applications open for a long time, the system freezes, and memory ends after installing a pair of programs, the reason is not the βweak hardwareβ, but the clogged system β accumulated cache, the remains of deleted applications and fragmented files.
In this article, we will look at 7 proven ways to clean up Redmi 4A that work on all versions of MIUI, from the old MIUI 8 to the current MIUI 14. You will learn how to make space without losing data, which tools to use and which to refuse, and pay special attention to hidden MIUI functions that are not written about in standard instructions, for example, cleaning system debris through the engineering menu.
Important: the methods are suitable for other models of the Redmi series with similar hardware (for example, the Redmi 5A or Redmi 3S), but some menu items may differ. All operations are safe, if you follow the instructions - the risk of "bricking" the phone is minimal.
1.Cleaning the app cache: a quick way without losing data
Cache is a temporary file that creates applications to speed up work. Over time, it takes up gigabytes of memory, but it can be deleted without harming programs. On Redmi 4A with 16 GB Storage, this is especially true.
How to clear the cache:
- π± Open the Settings. β Annexes β All applications
- π Select an app (such as YouTube or Facebook) and tap Clear the cache
- π§Ή For mass cleaning, go to Settings β Memory. β Clean and press Clear Cache
- β‘ Use the Security App (Based-in Antivirus Xiaomi): Optimization β Deep cleaning
β οΈ Warning: Do not confuse Clear cache and Clear data! The second option will remove all the settings of the application (for example, logins in messengers). Cache can be cleaned even daily, and data - only when absolutely necessary.
2. Delete unnecessary files and "junk" through MIUI Cleaner
MIUI has a built-in Cleaner tool (newer versions β Security β Clean) that finds and removes:
- ποΈ Residual files of remote applications
- π Empty folders and duplicate photos
- π΅ Unused. APK-files (installer residues)
- π System Logs and Temporary Files
Instructions:
- Launch the Security app (shield icon).
- Slip the cleanup. β Deep cleaning.
- Wait for analysis (can take 1-2 minutes on Redmi 4A).
- Select file categories to delete and click Clear.
π‘ Tip: If Security doesn't find garbage, try third-party utilities like Files by Google or CCleaner. MIUI Β«seeΒ».
Backup of important files|Close all applications|Connect charging (the process may take time)|Check the free space before and after-->
3. Cleaning the system partition: hidden methods
Even after deleting applications, the system still has their tails, files in /data and /system folders, and you will need root rights or an engineering menu to delete them.
Method 1: Through the Engineering Menu (without root)
- Open the Phone app and dial ##4636##.
- Select Usage Statistics β Storage.
- Tap Clear app data for system applications (e.g. Mi Video or Mi Music).
Method 2: With ADB (for Advanced)
Connect your phone to your PC, turn on USB Debugging (Settings β About Phone β MIUI Version β 7 times tap to unlock) and execute the command:
adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.miui.videoplayerReplace com.miui.videoplayer with an unnecessary system application package.
List of safe to remove system packages
β οΈ Warning: Removing system applications may disrupt the work MIUI. Before experimenting, back up through Settings β Additionally. β Backup.
4.Outload optimization: why the phone brakes after turning on
Many applications run automatically when Redmi 4A is turned on, consuming memory and battery power.
- π« Go to Settings. β Permits β Auto-start.
- π Turn off auto-run for unnecessary apps (such as games or social media).
- π In Security, select Optimization. β Auto-Start and Deactivate Excessive Programs.
For deep optimization, use Greenify (requires root or ADB). This app freezes background processes, saving up to 30% of charge.
π‘
If notifications stop coming after shutting down the autoboot (for example, from Viber), add the messenger to the exceptions in the battery settings: Settings β Battery β Application Power Management
5. Factory reset: When nothing helps
If the Redmi 4A is too slow and the memory is full of no one knows what, hard reset will help, which is an extreme measure β all data will be erased, but the phone will return to the factory state.
Method 1: Through the settings menu
- Go to Settings β Additional β Recovery and Reset.
- Select Resetting β Erase all data.
- Confirm the action and wait for the reboot (it will take 5-10 minutes).
Method 2: Recovery (if the phone is not turned on)
- Turn off Redmi 4A.
- Hold the volume.+ + Food before the appearance of the Mi logo.
- Select Wipe Data β Wipe All Data (control β volume buttons).
β οΈ Warning: After resetting, the phone will require you to enter a Mi Account if it was previously linked!
π‘
Resetting to factory settings removes everything, including photos on internal memory. Pre-copy important files to a PC or memory card.
6.Memory card cleaning: why SD-card slows down the phone
Many Redmi 4A users extend memory using microSD, but over time, the card begins to slow down the system.
- π’ Slow class (below Class 10 or UHS-I).
- ποΈ Fragmentation of files (especially after frequent deletion/write).
- π¦ Viruses or damaged sectors.
How to Clean and Speed Up SD-map:
- Copy all the data from the card to the PC.
- Format it in FAT32 or exFAT (via PC or Settings β Memory β Memory Map β Format).
- Check for errors using the SD Card Formatter (the official utility from the SD Association).
- Do not use the card as internal memory (Settings β Memory β Memory Map β Internal Memory) if it is below UHS-I, this will kill performance.
π Comparison of classes SD-maps 4A:
| Class of card | Recording speed | Suitable for | Price (for 32 GB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class 4 | 4 MB/s | Music, documents | 300-500 β½ |
| Class 10 | 10 MB/s | Photo: Full HD video | 600-900 β½ |
| UHS-I (U1) | 30 MB/s | 4K-video games | 1000-1500 β½ |
7. Alternative methods: what to do if nothing has worked
If the Redmi 4A continues to slow down after all the manipulations, try:
- π Remove the firmware: New versions MIUI They can be "heavy" for old iron. MIUI 9 MIUI 10 via Fastboot.
- π Replace the battery: Worn-out battery (capacity) < 60%) causes sudden shutdowns and lags.
- π οΈ Next articleSwitch to custom firmware: LineageOS or Pixel Experience work faster than standard MIUI, but require unlocking the loader.
- πΎ Use cloud storage: Move photos and videos to Google Photos or Mi Cloud, freeing up space on your phone.
π§ For the Advanced: If You Are Ready for Experiments, Try Magisk + module GMS Doze.This optimizes the background work of Google services, which heavily load the Redmi processor 4A.
β οΈ Warning: Flashing and modifications can result in a loss of warranty (if it is still valid) or a build-up of the phone!