How to install a memory card in Xiaomi Redmi 4X: instructions with photos and tips

Xiaomi Redmi 4X is one of the most popular budget smartphones of the brand, which is still actively used for its reliability and functionality. However, 16 or 32 GB of internal memory quickly run out, especially if you like to take pictures, shoot videos or install heavy games. The solution is simple – install a microSD card. But how to do it correctly, so as not to damage the slot, not lose data and make the most of the additional space?

In this article, we will take a step-by-step guide to installing a microSD in Redmi 4X, how to choose the right card, format it and configure it as internal memory. Also, you will learn what mistakes users often make and how to avoid them. If you have never worked with memory cards in Xiaomi smartphones before, don’t worry, the process is easier than it seems!

1. Which memory card to choose for Xiaomi Redmi 4X?

Not all microSDs are equally good for Redmi 4X. The smartphone supports cards up to 256 GB, but there are nuances here: First, the speed class should be no lower than Class 10 (or UHS-I U1), otherwise recording high-resolution video will slow down. Second, it is better to give preference to proven brands: SanDisk, Samsung, Kingston or Transcend – they are less forged and serve longer.

If you plan to use the card as internal memory (for installing applications), choose models with high read/write speeds - for example, SanDisk Ultra A1 or Samsung EVO Plus.

  • πŸ“Œ Volume: from 32 GB to 256 GB (optimally 64-128 GB)
  • ⚑ Speed: Class 10 or UHS-I U1/A1 application
  • πŸ›‘οΈ Brand: SanDisk, Samsung, Kingston, Transcend
  • πŸ’° Price: Don’t take too cheap – there is a high risk of counterfeiting

⚠️ Attention: Xiaomi Redmi 4X Does not support microSDXC cards larger than 256 GB. Avoid cards labeled with microSDXC. UHS-II β€” They will not increase speed, but will cost more.

πŸ“Š How much memory card do you use in your smartphone?
Up to 32GB.
64GB
128GB
256 GB or more
I don't use it.

2.Where is the memory card slot in Redmi 4X?

At Xiaomi Redmi 4X slot for a memory card combined - it is combined with a slot for the second SIM-This means you can use either two cards. SIM-card SIM + microSD. The slot is located on the left end of the case, next to the volume buttons.

To open the tray, you'll need a paper clip or a special key (complete with your phone) and carefully insert it into a small hole next to the slot and press the tray to extend. Don't put too much effort into not breaking the mechanism!

What if the tray is jammed?
If the tray is not retractable, try to tamper it with a thin plastic card (for example, a bank card). Do not use metal objects - they can scratch the case or damage the contacts. If the problem persists, contact the service center.
Slot typeSupportNote
SIM 1Nano-SIM (4G)The main slot, always working
SIM 2 / microSDNano-SIM or microSDEither the second SIM or the memory card.
Max, the volume of microSDUp to 256GBFormatting in FAT32 or exFAT

3. Step-by-step instruction: how to insert a memory card

Now, let's get to the process. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid mistakes.

  1. Turn off your phone. This is a must to avoid damage to your card or data loss.
  2. Get the tray for you. SIM-Use a paper clip or key from the set.
  3. Put the microSD in the slot. Contact down, as shown in the drawing inside the tray.
  4. Put the tray back in. Make sure it sits straight and straight.
  5. Turn on the phone. Wait for the card to be identified (it can take up to 30 seconds).

If the card is not determined, check:

  • πŸ”„ Is it inserted correctly (contacts should be directed downwards).
  • 🧹 Clean contacts on the map (wipe with a soft cloth if necessary).
  • πŸ“± Does the phone support such a volume (maximum 256 GB).

β˜‘οΈ Preparation for microSD installation

Done: 0 / 5

⚠️ Note: If you insert a card instead of the second SIM-maps, make sure that it does not have important data - when you first connect the phone will offer to format it.

4. Memory card formatting: FAT32, exFAT or internal memory?

After installing the card, Redmi 4X will offer you to choose how to use it:

  1. Portable storage (FAT32 or exFAT) – for photos, videos, music.
  2. Internal memory – for installing applications (requires formatting).

If you choose internal memory, consider:

  • πŸ“± The card will be encrypted and tied to the phone – in another device, the data will not be read.
  • πŸ”„ After extraction, it will have to be formatted again.
  • ⚑ Not all applications can be transferred to the map (depending on the developer).

For most users, the best option is portable storage in exFAT format (supports files >4 GB).

  1. Go to Settings β†’ Memory β†’ Memory Map.
  2. Choose Format as internal or Format as portable.
  3. Confirm the action.

πŸ’‘

If you use the card as internal memory, back up your data regularly. When you reset your phone to factory settings, the card will also be formatted!

5. How to transfer data and applications to a memory card

If the card is formatted as a portable storage, you can manually transfer files to it through any file manager (for example, Mi File Explorer).

  1. Open Files (the folder icon on the desktop).
  2. Select the necessary files (photos, videos, music).
  3. Click Move and select the memory card.

For porting applications (if the card is used as internal memory):

  1. Go to Settings β†’ Applications.
  2. Select the appropriate application.
  3. Click Warehouse β†’ Change β†’ Memory Map.

Not all applications support portability, depending on the developer, and system applications (Google Play, Mi Account, etc.) cannot be migrated.

Type of dataCan I reschedule?How to transfer
Photo/videoβœ… Yes.Mi File Explorer or Google Photos
Music.βœ… Yes.Manually or through the Music App
Annexes⚠️ Partially.Only if the card is an internal memory
Communications/contacts❌ No.Only backup to the cloud

6. Frequent errors and their solution

Even if you install the memory card correctly, you can have problems.

  • 🚫 The card is not detectable: Check if it's inserted correctly. Wipe the contacts with alcohol. Try formatting them on a PC. FAT32.
  • 🐒 Slow Work: Use a Class Card UHS-I U1 Don't fill the card more than 80 percent. Format it on your phone.
  • πŸ”’ Formatting requests: If the card was used on another device, it needs to be formatted!

⚠️ Warning: If your phone starts to overheat or discharge quickly after installing the card, check it for authenticity. Fake microSDs often cause smartphone malfunctions.

πŸ’‘

If the memory card is detected but the files on it are not opened, try connecting it to your computer and checking for errors using the chkdsk utility (for Windows).

7 How to safely remove the memory card from the Redmi 4X

It's not enough to just pull out a card -- it can lead to data loss or file system damage.

  1. Open Settings β†’ Memory β†’ Memory Map.
  2. Click Extract (or Safe Extract).
  3. Wait for the notification You can remove the card.
  4. Turn off your phone (but not necessarily).
  5. Get the tray out and get the map.

If you retrieve the card without safely shutting down, risk losing data or damaging the file system, in some cases, the card will have to be re-formatted.

What to do if the card is β€œstuck” in the slot?
Don't try to pull it out by force! Turn off your phone, gently swing the tray to the sides and pull it. If it doesn't work, go to the service center. Don't use tweezers or other metal objects!

FAQ: Frequent questions about memory cards in Xiaomi Redmi 4X

Can I use a memory card and two? SIM-mapping?
No, at Redmi. 4X hybrid slot: either two SIM-card SIM + microSD.
What is the maximum card size of Redmi 4X?
Officially, up to 256 GB. However, some users successfully use 512 GB cards (but this is not guaranteed by the manufacturer).
Can I transfer WhatsApp to a memory card?
No, WhatsApp does not support external storage, but you can save media files (photos, videos) directly to the map in the messenger settings.
Why did the card become slower after formatting as internal memory?
It's okay -- encryption and FUSE slows down, and it's not critical for applications, but for heavy games, it's better to use internal memory.
Can I use a Redmi 4X card on another phone?
If the card is formatted as a portable storage, yes, if it's internal memory, it's not, because it's encrypted and it's tied to the device.