How to accurately determine the model of Xiaomi device: from smartphone to smart lamp

Have you bought a used Xiaomi smartphone without a box, lost documents or just want to clarify the exact modification of your gadget? To determine the model of the device from this brand can be difficult: the manufacturer produces dozens of variations with similar names (for example, Redmi Note 11 Pro vs Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G), and the case often lacks explicit markings. In this article, we will analyze 7 reliable methods of identification – from standard methods through settings to little-known tricks with an engineering menu.

We will focus on common errors: why the name in the settings may not match the real model, how to distinguish a clone from the original by IMEI, and what to do if the device does not turn on. At the end of the article, a table with the labels of popular series (Redmi, POCO, Mi) and their key differences, which will help to avoid confusion when buying.

1. Verification through smartphone settings (the fastest way)

If the device is powered on and running, start with this method.It is suitable for all Xiaomi smartphones, including Redmi, POCO and Black Shark:

  1. Open the Settings app (cog icon).
  2. Scroll down and select About Phone (or About Device on MIUI 14+).
  3. Find the Model line or the Model name, and the full name will be listed here, such as the M2101K7AG (codename) or the Redmi Note 10 Pro (commercial name).

⚠️ Note: Some firmware (especially custom ones) in this section may display an incorrect name. POCO X3 Pro, you'll see vayu, which is the code name for the platform. To decrypt it, use the table at the end of the article.

In addition, in this section you can find out:

  • πŸ“± Version MIUI β€” will help determine the generation of the device, for example, MIUI 13 was put on the model 2021-2022).
  • πŸ”’ Build number – contains the code name of the model (for example, SKQ1.210216.001 Mi 11).
  • πŸ“‘ Network type – will indicate support 5G (if there's a line SA/NSA).

πŸ’‘

If you only display a code name (e.g. alioth) in your settings, copy it and type it into a search engine with the word "Xiaomi." The first results will show the exact model (in this case, POCO F3).

2. Identification by box and documents

Xiaomi's original packaging contains all the information you need -- unless it's fake.

  • πŸ“¦ Sticker on the end of the box – here is the full name of the model (for example, Redmi Note). 12 Pro+ 5G 8/256GB) and the article (e.g, 23013RK4AC).
  • 🏷️ Barcode: The first digits after the country of origin (e.g., 69410544...) correspond to the series of devices.
  • πŸ“„ Warranty card – the exact name is written in the column β€œModel” (sometimes indicating the region, for example, Mi 11 Lite). 5G NE (Global)).

⚠️ Note: Fake boxes often have typos in their names (e.g. Redmi Not). 10 Redmi Note instead 10) or non-existent articles. Check the code against the official list on the website. mi.com/verify.

If there is no box, check the documents from the set:

  • πŸ“‹ Instructions for operation - the name of the model is indicated on the first page.
  • πŸ”‹ Sticker on charger – sometimes contains an article that matches the model of the smartphone.
πŸ“Š Where do you usually look for information about the device model?
In the smartphone settings
On the box/documents
Through IMEI
On the engineering menu
Another way.

3.Use of IMEI for accurate identification

IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit code that is assigned to each smartphone, and it can tell you not only the model, but also the region of sale, the year of release, and even the originality of the device.

  1. Dial on the phone keyboard *#06# - one or two will appear on the screen IMEI (two-device SIM-map).
  2. Copy the first one. IMEI Check it out on one of the services: 🌍 IMEI.info – show the model, production date and specification. πŸ” XiaomiMEI – a specialized service for Xiaomi devices.

⚠️ Note: If the service shows a model that does not match the appearance of the device (for example, Redmi). 9A instead POCO X3), It could mean:

  • πŸ”„ Smartphone will reflash (IMEI bound).
  • 🚨 Device fake (clone with a substituted) IMEI).
  • πŸ“± The model is rebranded (e.g, POCO M3 Redmi 9 Power is the same as Redmi 9 Power. IMEI).

In such cases, recheck the model through the engineering menu or special applications.

What if the IMEI is missing or incorrect?
If you enter *#06# with an error or an incorrect IMEI, this may indicate a software failure or a β€œgray” import. Try: 1. Reboot the device. 2. Check the IMEI through the engineering menu (#4636##. 3. If the IMEI is missing at all, the device could be recovered after theft (such phones are blocked by operators).

4. Search for markings on the device body

All Xiaomi devices (except some smartwatches) have a factory sticker or engraved with technical information.

Type of deviceLocationWhat is stated
SmartphonesUnder the removable lid (if the battery is not removable - on the tray) SIM-map)Model (e.g. M2007J3SC), certificates (CE, FCC), IMEI
TabletsOn the back (bottom) or under the standModel (e.g. Pad 5), serial number, charging power
Smart watches (Mi Band, Watch)On the back of the body or strapModel (e.g. M2129B1), production date
RoutersOn the bottom panel.Model (e.g, AX3600), MAC-address, firmware version

On smartphones, the marking is often hidden under the tray SIM-Take it out and look at the inside -- there might be a sticker with the model code, M2101K7AG For the Redmi Note 10 Pro).

⚠️ Note: Fake devices often have stickers unstick or typos. Compare the font and location of the information with official photos on Xiaomi's website.

Remove the tray. SIM-maps and inspect the interior

Look under the removable lid (if the battery is removable)

Use a flashlight – the marking can be engraved in small print

Compare the code found with the model table at the end of the article-->

5. Engineering menus and hidden codes

If standard methods don't work, use service codes and engineering menus to give you access to technical information that your normal settings don't show.

Discovery methods:

  • πŸ“± Enter on the keyboard ##4636## β†’ Select Device Information. The product model bar will have a code name (e.g., surya for the product model). POCO X3).
  • πŸ”§ Enter ##225## and the screen calibration menu will open, which also shows the model name.
  • πŸ“‘ To check the network, type ##4634### – at the top of the screen will be a model and firmware version.

⚠️ Note: Not all codes work on new versions MIUI (13+). If nothing happens after entering the code, try it:

  1. Connect the device to a PC and use ADB to request the model: adb shell getprop ro.product.model
  2. Install the CPU-Z application (Device section).

πŸ’‘

Engineering menus may contain confidential data (IMEI, MAC-Do not share screenshots from this section in public sources!

Special Annexes for Model Definition

If you need not only the name of the model, but also full specifications (processor, memory, sensors), use third-party utilities.

  • πŸ“Š CPU-Z β€” Shows model, processor, version MIUI And even the battery temperature. Look for the Model line in the Device tab.
  • πŸ” AIDA64 β€” provides advanced information, including the code name of the platform (e.g., lmi for POCO F2 Pro).
  • πŸ“± Mi Check (official) – checks the authenticity of the device and shows the exact model with the region.

⚠️ Note: Apps like Antutu Benchmark or Geekbench may show a flawed model if the device is overstuffed. For example, the Redmi Note 8 Pro after firmware is installed on the device. POCO X2 This will be defined as the second model.

For smart devices (watches, lamps, routers) use the official Mi Home app:

  1. Connect the gadget to the app.
  2. Go to Profile. β†’ My devices.
  3. Click on the device you want, and a card with the exact model (e.g. Xiaomi Mi Smart Band 6) will open.

7. Table of Xiaomi code names and markings

Often, the settings or engineering menus display a code name (like Redmi Note 11) rather than a commercial name (like spes). Below is the match table for the popular series (2019-2026). If your model isn't listed, check it out on XiaomiUI.

Code nameCommercial nameYear of releaseFeatures
aliothPOCO F3 / Redmi K402021Snapdragon 870, 120Hz screen
surya / karnaPOCO X3 / POCO X3 Pro2020–2021Snapdragon 732G / 860, 6000 mAh
lmiPOCO F2 Pro / Redmi K30 Pro2020Snapdragon 865, retractable camera
mojito / sunnyRedmi Note 10 / Redmi Note 10S2021AMOLED-screen (only in the Pro version)
vegaXiaomi Mi 11 Lite 5G NE2021Snapdragon 778G, 67W charging

πŸ’‘ Tip: If your device doesn’t turn on, but you know its code name, type in a search query like: Xiaomi [codename] full specs. The first results on GSMArena or XiaomiDevice will show the full specifications.

Frequent Questions (FAQ)

Can I identify a Xiaomi model by serial number?
Yes, but only through official channels (S/N) It's unique to each device. To test it, find it. S/N on the box or in the settings (about the phone) β†’ General information. Enter it on the website mi.com/verify. ⚠️ If a site gives an error, the serial number may be fake or belong to another device.
How to distinguish Redmi from POCO when they are identical?
Some models (e.g. Redmi) K30 and POCO X2) They're actually the same design, but they're different in firmware and regional positioning: πŸ“± Logo on the case β€” POCO has a separate branding. πŸ”§ Name in settings β€” POCO It always contains this word in the model. 🌍 Firmware region β€” POCO Redmi K-series is sold globally and Redmi K-series is mostly sold in China.
Why is one model displayed in the settings and another one in the IMEI?
This is a typical situation for: πŸ”„ Re-stitched devices (for example, the Chinese Redmi Note 11 is stitched under the global POCO M4 Pro). πŸ“¦ Rebranding (the same model is sold under different names in different regions). 🚨 Fakes (IMEI To find out the truth, check the code name from the engineering menu with the table above.
How to find out the Xiaomi model if the phone is not turned on?
If the device does not respond to the charge or power button: See the marking on the case (see section 4). Check checks or warranty documents. Connect to the PC and use MiFlash - the program will determine the model when connected in mode EDL. ⚠️ If the phone doesn't show any signs of life, the charge may have been damaged, and then the model can only be recognized by the item on the box or the purchase check.
Where to find information about the Xiaomi smartwatch or fitness bracelet?
For wearable devices (Mi Band, Watch, Smart Band): πŸ“± Open the Mi Fitness or Zepp Life app β†’ Profile β†’ My devices. 🏷️ Look at the back of the case – there is a sticker with the model (for example, M2129B1 For the Mi Band 6). πŸ”‹ Look for the article of the view on the box XMSH15HM (For the Mi Band 5).