How to make a full copy of Xiaomi: 5 proven ways with instructions

Backing up data on a Xiaomi smartphone is not just a recommendation, it’s a must for every user. Even if your Redmi, POCO or Mi is running smoothly, the risk of data loss is always there, from accidental reset to hardware breakdowns. Unlike the iPhone, where the backup is integrated into Apple’s ecosystem, MIUI devices offer several alternative ways, from standard tools to advanced solutions for enthusiasts.

In this article, we will discuss 5 working methods for creating copies, including cloud services, local saving via MIUI Backup, using a custom TWRP recovery, ADB commands and even manual copying of critical files. We will pay special attention to the nuances for different versions of MIUI (12 to 14) and models - from budget Redmi Note 12 to flagship Xiaomi 14 Ultra. You will learn how to avoid typical errors (for example, an incomplete backup due to the limitations of MIUI on system applications) and what data should be duplicated manually.

1. Standard backup via MIUI Backup: pros and cons

The built-in MIUI Backup tool is the easiest way to save data, but it has strict limitations, such as not copying system applications (like Mi Browser or Mi Video), settings for certain services (like Mi Home for smart home), and data from secure folders, but for most users, this is enough.

To make a backup copy:

• 📱 Open the Settings. → The phone. → Backup and reset → Local backups.
• 🔄 Click Create Backup and select data: contacts, messages, call logs, Wi-Fi settings, etc.
• 💾 Specify the location of storage: internal memory or microSD (if supported).
• ⏳ Wait for completion (on Xiaomi 13 Pro with 256 GB of data, the process can take up to 20 minutes).

The finished backup will be saved in the MIUI/backup/AllBackup folder in.mbk format. It can only be restored on Xiaomi devices with the same MIUI version (or higher). For example, the backup with MIUI 13 will not be restored to MIUI 12.5.

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If you are planning to reset your phone before selling, first untie your Mi Account in Settings → Mi Account. Otherwise, the new owner will not be able to use the device!

2. Cloud backup via Mi Cloud: Automatic synchronization

Mi Cloud is Xiaomi's cloud storage that automatically syncs contacts, notes, photos and even browser history, with the main advantage of being accessible from any device and taking minutes to recover.

• 🌐 Free available only 5 GB (for comparison, Google Drive gives 15 GB).
• 🔒 Some data (such as Wi-Fi passwords) are not synced by default.
• 📶 Requires a stable Internet connection (on a slow basis) 3G 10 GB photo download can stretch for hours).

How to set up a cloud backup:

1. Go to Settings. → Mi Account → Mi Cloud.
2. Enable synchronization for the desired categories (e.g. Contacts, Gallery, Notes).
3. For manual backup, click Data Backup and select files.

Important: If you use Google Photos to store your photos, turn off duplicate sync in Mi Cloud to avoid wasting space. Also check that in Settings → Applications → Permissions Mi Cloud has access to storage and contacts.

3. Advanced backup via TWRP: for power users

If you need to save all the firmware, including system files and the kernel, the only reliable way is to use custom TWRP recavators. This method is suitable for enthusiasts who install custom firmware (for example, LineageOS or Pixel Experience) or experiment with root rights. However, it requires an unlocked bootloader and can lead to the loss of warranty for new models (for example, Xiaomi 14 series).

Step-by-step:

1. Unlock the bootloader via fastboot oem unlock (instructions on the official website).
2. Install TWRP for your model (download the image from twrp.me).
3. Load into the receptacle: turn off the phone, then press Power + Volume up.
4. In TWRP, select Backup and select the sections: Boot, System, Data, Vendor.
5. Save the backup on MicroSD or OTG-storage device (internal memory can be encrypted!).

Advantages of TWRP:

• 🔧 Full system shot, including Magisk settings and custom cores.
• 🛠️ The ability to restore the phone even after the “bricking".
• 📦 Support for backup compression (saves space).

Charge your phone at least 70 times%|Download the correct version TWRP forecast|Connect OTG-drive or insert a microSD|Disable encryption (if necessary)|Make a backup copy IMEI (through MTK Engineering Mode for Mediatek)-->

4. backup via ADB: for developers and technicians

Android Debug Bridge (ADB) tool allows you to back up data without root rights, but with some limitations. For example, it doesn't save app data unless they support backup via adb backup. However, it's one of the most versatile methods, working even on locked devices.

Instructions for Windows:

1. Install ADB and Fastboot.
2. Enable USB debugging in Settings → About Phone → MIUI version (click 7 times, then go back to Additional → For Developers).
3. Connect your phone to your PC and execute the command: adb backup -apk -obb -shared -all -f C:\backup.ab where -apk — backup APK-file, -shared — file SD-map.
4. On the phone, confirm the creation of a backup (a password may be required).

Limitations of the method:

• ❌ Not all apps support adb backup (such as WhatsApp or banking apps).
• ❌ Backup may be incomplete if the application uses its own encryption.
• ⚠️ In some models (for example, POCO F5) Additional confirmation is required via adb shell.

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ADB-The backup is suitable for storing user data and APK, but does not replace the full backup through TWRP. It is useless for system files.

5 Manual backup of critical data: what to copy manually

Even if you backup through MIUI Backup or Mi Cloud, some data is better duplicated separately.

Pay special attention to two-factor authentication (2FA). If you use Google Authenticator or Mi Auth, export backup codes in advance - when you reset your phone, access to accounts can be lost!

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To back up WhatsApp, use the built-in feature in Settings → Chat → Backup. But remember: the backup is saved to Google Drive and does not include media files if they weigh more than 15 MB.

6. Frequent mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced users have problems building backups, and here are the most common mistakes and solutions.

⚠️ Note: If you do a backup before upgrading MIUI via fastboot, make sure the firmware version is compatible with your model. 12T (Plato codename is not suitable for Xiaomi 12T Pro (diting).

Error 1: “Not enough disk space” with local backup.

• 🗑️ Remove old backups in MIUI/backup/.
• 💾 Use a MicroSD or OTG-accumulator.
• 🔍 Check if temporary files are available (e.g. Google Play cache).

Error 2: Backup is 99% over the Mi Cloud.

• 🌐 Switch from Wi-Fi to mobile (sometimes helps).
• 🔄 Restart your phone and try again.
• 📧 Check if the storage limit is exceeded (5 GB).

Error 3: TWRP doesn't see internal memory.

• 🔐 If the memory is encrypted, enter the password in TWRP (if maintained).
• 💾 Use a MicroSD or OTG-accumulator.
• 🛠️ Update. TWRP Up to the latest version of your model.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions