Xiaomi’s robot vacuum cleaners are evolving so fast that even experienced users are confused in generations: Did you buy a used device without a box? Or want to understand how outdated your model is compared to new ones? LDS-In this article, we will analyze 7 reliable methods to determine the generation of the Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaner - from the analysis of the serial number to hidden functions in the proprietary application.
The challenge is that the company has several brands: classic Mi Robot, premium Viomi and budget Dreame. In addition, one generation can have up to 5 modifications (for example, Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro vs 2 Lite).
Serial number: the main identifier of the generation
The most accurate way is to decrypt the serial number (S/N) that is printed on the bottom of the device or in the battery compartment, code format: XX-XXX-XXX-XXXX, where the first characters encode the model and year of release.
Example: the number V1-123-456-7890 indicates that this is the first generation of the line of Viomi (letter V), released in 2019 (number 1 after the hyphen). For classic Mi Robots, M prefixes are used (for example, Mi Robot Vacuum 1 - M1-...).
- 🔍 Mi Robot: prefixes M1, M2, M3 (It corresponds to 1, 2 and 3 generations)
- 🌟 Viomi: prefixes V1, V2, V3 (premium lineup from 2018)
- 💰 Dreame: prefixes D6, D9, D10 (budgetary models)
- ⚡ New lines: LDS room - the presence of a laser rangefinder (for example, Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2) LDS)
⚠️ Note: Serial numbers of models for the Chinese market (with suffix) CN) For example, the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop P in China is the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop P. 1C Europe.
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If the serial number is erased, check it in the Mi Home app: go to Device Profile → Settings → Device Information. It also lists the date of first connection and the firmware version, which indirectly indicates a generation.
2.Exterior design: visual markers of generations
The body of the robot vacuum cleaner Xiaomi changed dramatically every 2-3 years.
| Generation. | Shape of the hull | Activation button | Color scheme | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st (2016–2018) | Round, 345 mm diameter | Mechanical, convex | Only white. | No camera, bumper with 6 IR sensors |
| 2nd (2019–2020) | Round, 353 mm diameter | Touch, lighted up. | White + Black (Pro models) | A laser rangefinder (LDS) appeared |
| 3rd (2021–2022) | Round or D-shaped (Viomi) | Touch with voice control | White, black, gold. | Double side brushes, improved bumper |
| 4th (2023–2026) | D-shaped or square (DreameBot X30) | No button (only via application) | Matte black, silvery | Automotive mop lift, 3D-camera |
Pay special attention to the shape of the body: round models older than 2020, and the D-shaped (with a flat front edge) is a new generation with improved corner cleaning. Also check the presence of a camera on the top panel, which indicates that the lack of it indicates the first generation or budget models like Dreame D6.
3. Functional capabilities: what your generation can do
Each generation of Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaners has received new features. Compare the capabilities of your model with this table to determine the generation:
- 🧹 1st generation: dry cleaning only, random motion algorithm, remote control
- 📡 2nd Generation: Laser Navigation (LDS), zoning of the room, management through Mi Home
- 💧 3-e generation: wet cleaning, automatic suction adjustment, voice assistant Alice/Google Assistant
- 🤖 4th generation: 3D-mapping, auto-mop lifting, container self-cleaning, Matter support
Key test: try using the Mi Home app to enable the Room Map feature, if you don't, you have the first generation. If you're building a map, but without the ability to edit zones, the second generation, the third and fourth generations allow you to draw virtual walls and highlight rooms.
How to check for LDS support?
4. Firmware and App: Hidden Tips
The firmware version and the Mi Home interface can point exactly to a generation. Open the app, select your robot vacuum cleaner, and go to Settings → About the device.
- Firmware version: type numbers 3.5.8_000123 correspondently 3-For generations, 1.8.5_00456 — first.
- The presence of the tab "Map": not available in models until 2019.
- Voice control: It was only introduced in the 3rd generation.
- Turbo mode: in new generations it is replaced by Maximum with suction adjustment.
The critical detail is that if you have a self-cleaning container in your settings, it's 100% fourth generation (2023-2026 models), a feature that only appeared in the DreameBot X30 and Viomi V3 Pro.
⚠️ Note: After updating the firmware through the Mi Home, some older models (such as the Mi Robot Vacuum 1) may show a new-generation interface. LDS camera!
Comparison with official specifications
If you know the exact model (e.g., it is listed on the box or in the documents), check its specifications with official Xiaomi data.
| Characteristics | 1st generation | 2nd generation | 3rd generation | 4th generation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type of navigation | Gyroscope + IR sensors | LDS (laser) | LDS + camera | 3D-ToF + LDS |
| Max. Suction (Pa) | 1800 | 2000–2500 | 2700–3000 | 4000–6000 |
| Wet cleaning | ❌ No. | ✅ Optionally. | ✅ Built-in | ✅ With pressure adjustment |
| Autonomy (min) | 90–120 | 120–150 | 150–180 | 180–240 |
For accurate identification, use Xiaomi's official authentication service. Enter the serial number to show the model and the date of production. If the device is not recognized, it may be a fake or a model for the Chinese market (verification is required via WeChat).
Verify the maximum suction with the table|Check the type of navigation (is there a laser)|Check for the presence of wet cleaning|Compare battery life-->
Analysis of equipment and accessories
The contents of the box will also tell the generation.
- 📦 1st generation: only docking station, remote control, spare brushes and filter. No water container.
- 💦 2nd generation: a water tank is included (but without electronic control).
- 🔋 3rd generation: two containers (for dust and water), additional wipes for wet cleaning.
- 🧼 4th generation: station with auto-emptying, detergent complete, spare HEPA-filter.
Pay attention to the type of docking station:
The first generation had a simple charging base without functions.
The second is a base with contacts for wet cleaning.
Third and fourth stations with auto-emptying (DreameBot X30) or even with the mop drying function (Viomi V3 Pro).
⚠️ Warning: Be careful about buying used vacuum cleaners without the original docking station. 3rd and 4th generation models require branded bases with fast charging. Older generation connection to the station can knock out the battery.
7. Alternative methods: when nothing helps
If the serial number is erased and the model is undetectable, try these methods:
- Reset the settings via the Reset button (under the battery compartment cover) and after rebooting, the robot can show the model on the screen or in a voice salute.
- Connect to Mi Home and check the device ID in the settings. The first digits often correspond to the model (e.g. vacuum.v1 is the first generation).
- Disassemble the case (carefully!) The control board usually bears the model marking (e.g. MSD19 - Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2).
The last way is to contact Xiaomi Service Center with a photo of the device, and if you provide the serial number (even partially), you will receive an official decryption of the model.
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The most reliable method is to combine serial number + check through an official app, and the exterior design and functionality can be misleading due to modifications to different markets.