How to accurately identify the model of Xiaomi laptop: from Mi Notebook to RedmiBook

Xiaomi laptops have gained popularity due to a combination of performance, design and affordable price. However, the variety of series β€” Mi Notebook, RedmiBook, Mi Gaming Laptop β€” often puzzles users: how to find out the exact model of your device? This information is critical for buying accessories, finding drivers, selling or repairing.

Complicating the problem, similar laptops can be from different generations (e.g. RedmiBook 14 and RedmiBook 14 II), and model names are easy to get confused. In this article, we will examine all official and hidden ways of identification, including those that work even on faulty devices, you will learn where to look for labeling, how to decrypt codes and what to do if the sticker is erased.

1. Looking for a model on the laptop case

The most reliable way is to look at the physical markings on the case, which Xiaomi usually has on the bottom cover, but there are nuances:

  • πŸ“ Main sticker: It's in the center or near the bottom edge. Look for lines like Model: M1806 or Type: RedmiBook 14.
  • πŸ” Small print: Sometimes the model is listed next to the serial number (S/N) barcode.
  • ⚠️ Under the legs: some models (for example, Mi Notebook Pro X 15) sticker is hidden under rubber stops – they can be carefully lifted.

If the labels are erased, try to light up with a flashlight at an angle β€” there are often traces of embossing. On new laptops (2022 and later), the model can be engraved with a laser without paint.

⚠️ Note: Do not confuse the Model Number (for example, M1806) Part Number (e.g., part number, NBK-M1806-1). To find drivers or parts, you need a Model Number.

πŸ“Š Where your Xiaomi laptop has a sticker with the model?
On the bottom cover.
Under the battery.
On the box.
I can't find it.
Another option

2. Check the model in BIOS/UEFI

If the laptop is turned on, but the OS is not loading (or you do not know the password), look at the BIOS.

  1. Turn off the laptop.
  2. Press F2 (or Del for older models) and turn on the power.
  3. In the Main or System Information section, look for Product Name, Model, or SKU Number fields.

Xiaomi's BIOS model can be displayed in NBK-M1806 format (for Mi Notebook Air 12.5) or RMBP-14 format (for RedmiBook 14). If the interface is in Chinese, look for characters (model) or (product name).

πŸ’‘

If you don’t have time to press F2 when booting, try Esc β†’ select Enter Setup from the download menu.

3 Use Windows to identify

On a working laptop with Windows 10/11, there are several ways to find out the model without disassembling:

Method 1: Information about the system

Press Win + R, enter msinfo32 and find the lines:

  • Model (e.g. Mi Notebook Pro 15.6)
  • Model identifier (e.g., M1806)

Method 2: Command Prompt

Open the CMD and do:

wmic csproduct get name, identifyingnumber

The result is two lines: the first is the full name (e.g. RedmiBook 14 II), the second is the model code (e.g. RMBP-14II).

Method 3: Device Manager

Go to Device Manager β†’ System Devices β†’ ACPI x64-based PC. In the properties on the Information tab, select the hardware ID - there will be a line with the model.

Open up. msinfo32|Start wmic csproduct get name|Check Device Manager|Look for a sticker on the body-->

4. Analyzing the serial number (S/N)

The serial number (S/N) of Xiaomi laptop contains encrypted model information, consisting of 14-16 characters, where the first 4-6 digits indicate the series.

Prefix S/NThe model concernedYear of release
L18MMi Notebook Air 12.52018
R19MRedmiBook 142019
XM20Mi Notebook 14 (India)2020
2106RedmiBook Pro 152021
2208Mi Notebook Pro X 152022

To decipher your S/N:

  1. Turn over your laptop and find a sticker that says S/N.
  2. Type the first 2-4 characters into the search engine along with the words Xiaomi notebook model.
  3. Check the database on the Mi Support website.

⚠️ Note: Serial numbers of laptops for the Chinese market (CN-versions) may begin with letters KHM or DGM. These devices often do not support global firmware.

5. Define the model by characteristics

If no labels are readable, you can identify the laptop by technical parameters. Compare the following data with the specifications on the GSM Arena or the official website:

  • πŸ–₯️ Diagonal and screen resolution: for example, 15.6" 3.5K (3456Γ—2160) β€” This is the Mi Notebook Pro X. 15.
  • πŸ”‹ Battery capacity: 56 Wh - RedmiBook 14, 70 Wh - Mi Notebook Pro 15.
  • πŸ”Œ Ports: availability HDMI 2.1 or Thunderbolt 4 narrows the circle to 2021 models+ year-end.
  • 🎨 Color of the case: RedmiBook 14 II It was produced in Moonlight Silver and Star Gray.

For accuracy, use utilities like AIDA64 or HWiNFO, which will show detailed specifications of the motherboard, chipset and even the original BIOS Version (for example, 1.07.03XMA for the Mi Notebook Air 13.3).

How to distinguish RedmiBook 14 from RedmiBook 14 II?
RedmiBook 14 II Intel-based processors 10-generation (e.g., the, i5-10210U), While the first version was equipped with 8-generationally (i5-8265U). Besides, y II generation keyboard with illumination and port USB-C DisplayPort support.

6. Checking the box and documents

If the laptop was bought new, the model must be indicated on the package and in the documents:

  • πŸ“¦ Box: Look for a large label on the end (such as Mi Notebook Pro 14) or a barcode sticker.
  • πŸ“„ Warranty card: in the column Model or Device.
  • πŸ›’ Check/invoice: in online stores, the model is indicated in the product name (for example, Xiaomi RedmiBook 15 e-Learning Edition).

Pay attention to the article (for example, NBK-M1806-GL): The last letters indicate the region (GL β€” global, CN β€” This is important for the compatibility of firmware and keyboards (in the case of the CN-The versions don't have the letter her).

πŸ’‘

If the box says Mi Notebook without numbers, but there is code M1806 is Mi Notebook Air 12.5" 2018.

7. Online services for identification

If physical methods don’t help, use the following online tools:

  • 🌐 Xiaomi official website: enter the serial number in the section Authentication.
  • πŸ” Databases: On NotebookCheck or UserBenchmark, search by characteristics.
  • πŸ“± Mobile app: Mi PC Suite (for Windows) automatically determines the model when you connect.

For Chinese models, the IT114 service is useful - there are databases with photos of internal components (for example, marking the motherboard).

⚠️ Warning: Don't enter a serial number on questionable sites! scammers can use it to register a device in their name via Mi Account.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi models

My Xiaomi laptop won't turn on. How do I know the model?
If your laptop doesn’t respond to the power button, check the charging port: there is often a fine engraved port (like the M1806) and try charging, as some models (RedmiBook 15) will light up the light briefly when you connect the power, even if the battery is drained.
What is the difference between Mi Notebook and RedmiBook?
The Mi Notebook is a premium line with a metal body, more powerful processors (such as the Intel H-series) and high-resolution displays (3K/4K). RedmiBook is a budget series with plastic elements, U-series processors and Full HD screens.
Can I determine the model of Xiaomi laptop by IMEI?
No, IMEI is only assigned to devices with a mobile module (for example, laptops with 4G/LTE like the Mi Notebook 14 Horizon). For most Xiaomi laptops, this method is not suitable - use S/N or marking on the case.
How do I know if my Xiaomi battery is original?
Compare the data from msinfo32 (Battery section) with the original model specifications. For example, the RedmiBook 14 II should have a capacity of 4,624 mAh (40 Wh). Also check the battery sticker: the original indicates Xiaomi Electric Co., Ltd. and the code that matches the Model Number of the laptop.
Where can I find the driver if I know the model?
Go to Xiaomi’s support page, select the Notebook category, then type in the exact model (e.g. RedmiBook 15 Pro). For Chinese versions, look for drivers at mi.com/pc (use an interpreter).