How to transfer data from Android to memory card Xiaomi Redmi 8: 5 working ways

Xiaomi Redmi 8 is a popular smartphone with support for microSD cards up to 512 GB, but many users face the problem of how to transfer data from internal memory to an external card without losing files and without reducing the performance of the device. In this article, we will analyze all the current methods, from standard Android tools to hidden MIUI functions that work on Redmi 8.

It is important to understand that not all files can be transferred to the SD-So for example, applications are often slowed down when you're running an external drive, and system data is not moving at all. We tested each method on Redmi 8 with firmware. MIUI 12.5 and highlight key nuances that save time and nerves.

1.Preparation: Which memory card to choose for Redmi 8

Before transferring data, make sure your microSD is compatible with Xiaomi Redmi 8.

• 🔹 Format: only FAT32 (up to 32 GB) or exFAT (64 GB to 512 GB). NTFS unsupported!
• 🔹 Speed class: minimum Class 10 (UHS-I), videotape 4K will be recorded with jerks.
• 🔹 Brand: Recommended by SanDisk Ultra, Samsung EVO Kingston Canvas – Optimized for Android.

⚠️ Note: If you use a card from a camera or an old phone, be sure to format it directly in Redmi 8 via the Settings menu. → Warehouse → Map. SD → It's internal formatting, it'll eliminate reading errors and speed up data exchange.

2. Method 1: Transfer files through the "Conductor" MIUI

The easiest method is to use Xiaomi’s built-in file manager, which allows you to move photos, videos, music and documents without any additional applications.

Instructions:

1. Open the Explorer application (the folder icon on the desktop).
2. Go to Internal Memory → select a folder (e.g. DCIM for photo).
3. Press your finger on the file (or several) → click Move.
4. Go back to the root directory, select SD Card → destination folder (or create a new one).
5. Click Insert and wait until it is completed.

⚠️ Note: If there is an error “Not enough space” when moving files, even when there are free gigabytes on the card, then:

• 📌 The map is formatted in FAT32 It doesn't support files. >4 GB (reformatted to exFAT).
• 📌 The destination folder already has files with the same names (rename them or use the option "Replace").

Method 2: Automatic transfer of photos and videos through the "Gallery"

Annex Gallery in MIUI It can automatically save new photos and videos directly to the SD-This is convenient if you take a lot of pictures and don't want to clog up your internal memory.

How to set up:

1. Open the Gallery → Click on the three dots in the upper right corner → Settings.
2. Select a Retention Site → Map. SD.
3. Activate the option "Save new files to the map".

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If the Save to Card option is inactive, check that the memory card is not connected as a portable storage (you need to reconnect as internal memory in the storage settings).

⚠️ Note: After changing the settings, all new photos and videos will be saved to the SD-The old files will remain in the internal memory. To transfer them, use method 1 or 4.

Method 3: Transfer applications to a memory card (with limitations)

Android allows you to transfer only a part of the applications to the SD-And even then, it can slow down. On Redmi 8, it's true for games and programs that weigh. >1 GB (e.g. Genshin Impact, PUBG Mobile).

Step-by-step:

1. Open Settings → Applications → Application Management.
2. Select the desired application → Warehouse.
3. Click Change → Select the SD Card.
4. Confirm the transfer (reboot may be required).

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Transfer of applications to SD-The card is a temporary solution. For permanent use, it is better to clear the cache or delete unnecessary programs.

5. Method 4: Using a PC for mass data transfer

If you need to move tens of gigabytes (like a movie collection or backup), it's easier to use a computer, which is faster and more reliable than moving through a phone.

What you need:

• 🖥️ Computer with Windows/macOS/Linux.
• 🔌 Cable USB Type-C (Combined with Redmi 8).
• 💾 Card reader (if the PC does not have a microSD slot).

Instructions:

1. Connect Redmi 8 to your PC via USB, select File Transfer (MTP) mode.
2. Open This Computer → Find the Redmi 8 device and the memory card (it will appear as a separate drive).
3. Copy files from the phone’s internal memory to SD-map (e.g. from a folder) DCIM\Camera into SDCard\Photos).
4. Once completed, safely remove both devices.

⚠️ Note: If the PC does not see the memory card, check:

• 🔹 Is the card connected correctly (try to move it to the slot).
• 🔹 Is it formatted in exFAT/FAT32 (Windows does not support ext4 or NTFS for SD-card).
• 🔹 Are there any physical damages (try inserting the card into another device).

Method 5: Transfer over the cloud (for backup)

If you are afraid of losing data when moving, first upload it to the cloud, and then download it to the cloud. SD-This method is suitable for backup, but not for permanent use (requires the Internet).

Recommended services:

• 🌥️ Google Drive (15GB free).
• 🌥️ Mi Cloud (5GB for Xiaomi accounts).
• 🌥️ Yandex Disk (10GB) free of charge).

How to move:

1. Upload files to the cloud through an app (e.g. Google Photos for media).
2. Open a cloud service on your PC or phone → Download the files directly to SD-map.

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To save traffic, upload files to the cloud via Wi-Fi and download them to the cloud. SD-A map at night when the internet is not needed for other tasks.

7. Frequent errors and how to fix them

When transferring data to SD-Redmi 8's map is a typical problem that we've put together solutions for the most common:

FAQ: Answers to popular questions