How to find out the model of the Xiaomi phone: all ways to check

Have you bought a Xiaomi smartphone with your hands or taken it out of the box, but you're not sure if the model fits the bill? Or do you want to check the originality of the device before you buy? Determining the exact model is the first step to install the right firmware, find cases or check compatibility with accessories. In this article, we'll go through all the working ways to find out the Xiaomi model, including hidden methods for devices with custom firmware or damaged screen.

The manufacturer doesn't always put the name of the model on the body (especially on the budget Redmi or POCO series), and the inscriptions on the box can be erased. Fortunately, there are at least 5 reliable ways - from standard settings to engineering teams. We will also tell you how to distinguish the global version from the Chinese version (China) and why this is important for upgrades.

1. Verification of the model through the phone settings

The fastest and most versatile method is to look at the settings menu, which works on all Xiaomi smartphones, regardless of MIUI version or bootloader unlock status.

Open the Settings app (cog icon) and follow the path: About Phone β†’ Model. Here you will see the full name of the device, for example, Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G or Xiaomi 13T Pro. Below you can see the model code (for example, 23049PCD8G) – this is often required by service centers.

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If the model name has a T (e.g., the POCO X5 Pro 5G), it indicates a modification with an improved camera or processor, which is typically 10-15% more expensive than the basic versions.

On some firmware, the path may be slightly different:

  • πŸ“± MIUI 12-14: Settings β†’ The phone. β†’ All characteristics β†’ Name of model
  • πŸ”„ LineageOS (Pixel Experience): Settings β†’ System system β†’ The phone. β†’ Model
  • βš™οΈ Root devices: the name can be duplicated in the Settings section β†’ Additionally. β†’ Version. MIUI

⚠️ Note: If the About section displays an incomplete name (e.g., only Redmi Note) 11 without specifying the modification of Pro or 4G/5G), It could mean that the firmware is faked.

2.Use of the box and documentation

The original Xiaomi packaging always contains full model information. The sticker on the box (usually on the end or bottom) includes:

  • πŸ“¦ Full name: for example, Xiaomi 13 Lite 5G
  • πŸ”’ Model code: combination of numbers and letters (e.g, 22101317G)
  • 🌍 Regional version: Global, China, India or EEA (Europe)

Also check:

  • πŸ“„ Warranty card: model is shown at the top of the document.
  • πŸ”‹ Battery sticker: If the phone is collapsible, the model can be duplicated under the battery (relevant for older Redmi models) 4X, Note 5).
  • πŸ›’ Check or invoice: in official stores, the model breaks through IMEI.

πŸ“Š Where do you usually look at your smartphone?
In the settings
On the box.
Through code ##4636##
I don't know/I haven't checked.

⚠️ Note: Fake Xiaomi boxes often mimic the design of the original, but contain errors in the model names (for example, Redmi Note 10 Pro Maxx instead of Redmi Note 10 Pro Max.

3. codes for model verification (USSD and engineering menu)

If the phone is turned on but you have limited access to settings (e.g., a pattern lock is blocked), use service codes. SIM-map.

In the phone application, type the following combinations:

  • πŸ“± ##4636## β†’ Open the Device Information tab. The Model bar will have the full name.
  • πŸ” *#06# β†’ show IMEI. Copy it and check the model through services like IMEI.info.
  • πŸ› οΈ ##225## β†’ displays a calendar week of production (relevant for devices 2018-2022).

For advanced users, an engineering menu (CIT) is available.

  1. Dial ##36446337## or #3644633###.
  2. Go to the Version Info section.
  3. Find the Model and Hardware lines – the exact modification is listed here.

What do I do if the codes don't work?
If the message "Communication interrupted" appears after entering the code, it means: 1) You have custom firmware installed that removed support for USSD. 2) The phone is blocked by the operator (for example, broken devices with AliExpress). 3) MIUI version older than 14.0.3 - some codes are transferred to the Settings menu β†’ Additional β†’ Special features β†’ Menu for engineers.

4. Verification through IMEI (online services)

IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit code that can determine the model, release year and even lock status.

  • πŸ“± On a box (under a barcode).
  • πŸ”‹ Under the battery (on older models).
  • πŸ“„ In settings: About the phone β†’ All characteristics β†’ IMEI.

Copy the IMEI and enter on one of the services:

  • 🌍 IMEI.info – show the model, specifications and date of production.
  • πŸ” SNDeeP.info – Determine the region of the device (Global/China).
  • πŸ›‘οΈ Swappa IMEI Check to see if the phone is blacklisted.

ServiceWhat showsLimitations
IMEI.infoModel, year of release, characteristicsFree only basic information
SNDeeP.infoRegion (Global/China) Date of ProductionNot working with the new models of 2026
SwappaBlocking status, operatorRegistration is required for a full report
MIUI OfficialOriginality of firmwareIt only works for devices with official MIUI.

⚠️ Note: If the service shows a model that does not match the inscription on the box (for example, Redmi Note 11 instead of Redmi Note 11 Pro)+), The device could be re-fashioned or tampered with, and these phones often have issues with updates and maintenance.

5. Physical examination of the device

If the phone doesn't turn on or you don't have access to settings, check the case. Most Xiaomi models show the model:

  • πŸ“± Under the removable cover: relevant for older devices (Redmi) 3S, Note 4X). Remove the back panel and find the sticker under the battery.
  • πŸ”‹ On the non-removable back panel: in small print at the bottom (for example, on the POCO X3 Pro or Xiaomi 11T).
  • πŸ“¦ Nana SIM-Lotoke: Some models (Mi 9, Mi 10) are engraving with the model code.

Also note:

  • πŸ” Location of the connectors: for example, POCO F5 The Redmi Note 12 has an IR port, but it doesn’t.
  • 🎨 Xiaomi 13 Lite was released in Lite Pink, and 13 Pro – in Ceramic White.
  • πŸ“ Size and weight: Redmi Note 12 Pro+ It weighs 208g and the Redmi Note 12 Pro weighs 187g.

β˜‘οΈ Checklist for physical examination

Done: 0 / 4

6. Verification of the model through the computer (ADB and Fastboot)

If the phone is turned on but the screen is not working (or the image is missing), connect it to the PC and use it. ADB-This method requires the debugging of the teams to be enabled. USB.

Instructions:

  1. Download the Google Platform Tools.
  2. Connect your phone to your PC and open the Command Prompt in the ADB folder.
  3. Enter the command: adb shell getprop ro.product.model A model, for example, 2201116PG (this is Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G) will be displayed.

If the phone doesn’t turn on but goes into Fastboot mode (keep Power + Volume down), use the command:

fastboot getvar product

This will show the code model, which can be found on the website MIUI Downloads.

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ADB-The method is the only way to recognize the model on a phone with a broken screen, if it even turns on. For devices in the state of "brick" (do not respond to buttons), you will need to disassemble and check the sticker on the motherboard.

7. The difference between the original and the forgery

Fake Xiaomis often copy the design of popular models (Redmi Note 12, POCO X5), but have stripped down features.

Sign.OriginalFake.
Camera.Clear pictures, night mode worksBlurred photos, artificial background blur
FirmwareMIUI with branded wallpaper and animationsThe stripped-down shell or Android Go
IMEIUnique, checked on official sitesOne IMEI for all devices or invalid
Charging.Supports stated standards (e.g. 67W on Redmi Note 12 Pro+)Charges slowly, warms up

To check the originality:

  • πŸ” Compare the serial number on the box and in the settings (About the phone) β†’ All characteristics β†’ Serial number).
  • πŸ“¦ Check the box for the presence of Xiaomi hologram (it changes color when tilted).
  • πŸ›‘οΈ Enter. IMEI site mi.com/verify.

⚠️ Note: Fake Xiaomis are often sold with firmware that mimics MIUI, But without update support, these devices may contain malware to steal data.

FAQ: Frequent questions

Can I recognize a Xiaomi model by serial number?
Yes, but not directly. The serial number (S/N) is used to verify the originality on mi.com/verify. The model itself is not determined by it, only by matching the box and the device. Use IMEI or the codes in section 3 to identify the model.
Why does the model name appear incomplete?
This could mean: custom firmware (e.g. Pixel Experience) is installed that doesn't read the data correctly, the phone has been reflashed from Chinese to global, and the name hasn't been updated, the device is fake (found on clones of Redmi 9A or POCO M3), Check the model through IMEI or engineering menu (#36446337#).
How to distinguish Xiaomi Global from China?
Global versions (Global) have: Google Play and Google services support (Chinese versions need to be manually installed). Menu in English/Russian (Chinese - only Chinese). IMEI starts with 86 (China) or 35 (Global). Check the region through code ##4636## β†’ Device information β†’ Bands version. If there is support for B20 (800 MHz), it is Global.
Can I check the phone if the phone is not turned on?
Yes, there are 3 ways: See the sticker under the battery (if the case is removable). Find the IMEI on the box and check through IMEI.info. Connect the phone to your PC in Fastboot mode (if it responds to buttons) and use the command fastboot getvar product. If nothing helps, contact the service center - they will determine the model for the fee.
Why is AliExpress selling Xiaomi with unknown models?
It could be: OEM-Versions: Devices released for specific carriers (e.g. Redmi Note) 11R Exclusive modifications: e.g, POCO M4 5G Forgeries: Xiaomi-branded clones (often with Mediatek Helio) G35 Instead of the stated Snapdragon.Before buying, check the model through the IMEI The official list of Xiaomi models is available on the website mi.com.