Xiaomi Redmi 4X, with its modest 16-32GB of internal memory, often faces a shortage of space for apps, photos and videos. One solution is to use the microSD card as an internal drive, allowing you to install programs directly on it. However, the process has nuances, from choosing the right card to potential performance risks.
In this article, we will discuss the step-by-step instructions for transformation. SD-We'll compare the pros and cons of the method, and we'll look at alternative ways to expand storage. MIUI on the Redmi 4X, Which is not always obvious to users.
Preparation: what kind SD-map to choose for Redmi 4X
Not every microSD is suitable for use as internal memory. Xiaomi Redmi 4X supports cards format microSDHC (up to 32 GB) and microSDXC (up to 256 GB), but with important caveats:
- 🔹 Speed class: minimum Class 10 or UHS-I (U1). Marked cards U3 or V30 preferable for stable application operation.
- 🔹 Brand: avoid no-name cards - they are often forged and have low write speeds.Optimum options: SanDisk Ultra, Samsung EVO Plus, Kingston Canvas.
- 🔹 Volume: For Redmi 4X It is rational to choose cards for 64-128 GB. 256 GB cards can work unstable due to firmware limitations.
⚠️ Note: Once formatted as internal memory, the card cannot be retrieved and used in other devices without being completely cleaned.
Step-by-step instruction: formatting SD-maps as internal memory
The transformation process consists of several steps, and it is important to follow them consistently to avoid errors:
- Put it in. SD-slot 4X (Only hybrid slot is supported, so you have to choose between the second slot. SIM-memory-card).
- Go to Settings → Memory of the device → Memory Map.
- Click on the three dots in the top right corner and select Storage Settings.
- Tap it as internal formatting.
- Confirm the action. The system will alert you to erase all data, we agree.
- After formatting, select Data Transfer to move some applications and files to SD-map.
The process can take anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes depending on the size of the card, and don't interrupt it, which will damage the file system.
Make a backup copy of the data with SD-map|Charge your phone at least 50 times%|Use a class card UHS-I|Make sure the card is not fake (check through the utility) H2testw)
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Limitations and problems with using SD as internal memory
Despite the obvious advantages (increase in available space), the method has significant disadvantages:
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Slow application performance | Read/write speed SD-Cards are lower than the built-in eMMC memory | To transfer only light applications (messengers, utilities) to the map |
| Impossibility of retrieving the map | Data encrypted for a specific device | Format the card as portable before retrieval |
| Mistakes in updating MIUI | The system may not see the card as part of the internal storage | Temporarily format the card as portable before updating |
⚠️ Attention: On Redmi 4X firmware MIUI 10 there may be a bug where the system does not offer the formatting option SD It's like internal memory, and in this case, it's going to help you reset or manually format through the ADB.
How to format SD with ADB if the standard method doesn’t work
Alternative ways to expand memory on Redmi 4X
If the transformation SD-Cards in internal memory seem risky, consider other options:
- 📁 Manual Application Portability: In Settings → Apps select the program and click Move to SD-It doesn't work for all applications.
- 🖥️ Cloud storage: Google Drive, Mi Cloud or Yandex Disk for automatic synchronization of photos and documents.
- 🔄 Cache Cleanup: Regularly delete unnecessary files through Settings → Memory. → Cleanup.
- 📱 Optimization apps: Files by Google or CCleaner help you find and remove garbage.
✅ Key Conclusion: Transformation SD-The cards in internal memory are justified only when there is an acute shortage of space and a willingness to put up with a decrease in performance. 4X The best solution will be a combination of application transfer, cloud storage and regular cleaning.
💡
Before the purchase SD-Check the card for authenticity with the help of the utility H2testw. Many "brand" cards on the market are fakes with a real volume of 2-4 times less than the declared.
How to get it back SD-map
If you decide to stop using the card as internal memory, you can return it to normal mode.
- Go to Settings → Memory → Memory Map.
- Click on three dots and select Format as portable.
- Confirm action. All data will be deleted, but the card can be retrieved and used in other devices.
If the system does not offer formatting, use ADB:
adb shell
sm partition disk:179,64 publicAfter that, the card will become a regular removable drive.
Frequent mistakes and their solutions
Redmi users 4X Often face typical problems when working with SD-card:
- 🚫 "Map damaged": It occurs when you extract the card abruptly, so you format it through a PC in a format. FAT32 repeat the procedure.
- 🐢 Strong performance drawdown: Make sure the card has a speed class not lower U1. If the problem remains, transfer only media files to the map, and leave the applications in the built-in memory.
- 🔄 Cyclical reboot after formatting: Reset your phone to factory settings (Settings) → Additionally. → Recovery and discharge).
⚠️ Note: Some of the Redmi firmware 4X (for example, MIUI 9 Global Stable) formatting option SD How can I have no internal memory? TWRP pre-data-backup.