Xiaomi is now available not only in official stores — thousands of offers appear on marketplaces, social networks and even handheld. But as the brand grows in popularity, so too is the number of fakes, from rough copies to near-perfect replicas that are hard to tell with the naked eye. According to Customs Statistics China, in 2023, more than 1.2 million fake Xiaomi gadgets were confiscated just on the European border — and this is only the tip of the iceberg.
Not only do fake devices work worse, they are also dangerous, from overheating batteries to data leakage through malware. For example, in 2022, Kaspersky experts discovered spyware transmitting spy modules in fake Redmi Note 11s. SMS And fake Mi Bands are often equipped with low-quality sensors that show wrong pulse and footsteps.
In this guide, we will look at all the current ways of checking, from visual inspection of the package to deep diagnostics through service codes. You will learn how to distinguish the original even without a check, which applications will help with verification, and what to do if you have already bought a fake.
1. Packaging check: 5 signs of forgery
Packaging is the first and most obvious indicator of originality. Xiaomi places a special emphasis on box design, and fakes almost always give off as trifles.
- 📦 Print quality: The original box has clear text and logo, no blurring. Counterfeiting often has dull colors, uneven fonts, or misaligned design elements.
- 🔍 Hologram: From 2021, all Xiaomi boxes (except budget accessories) have a holographic sticker with a logo, which shimmers when you change the angle of view, and on fakes it is usually ordinary film.
- 📌 Barcode and QR-code: the original barcode is scanned by any application (e.g. Google Lens) and QR-The code leads to Xiaomi's official website with information about the model, and fake codes are often not read or lead to suspicious pages.
- 📏 Sizes and material: Xiaomi boxes are made of dense cardboard with a matte or slightly rough surface. Counterfeiters often use glossy or thin cardboard that bends when pressed.
- 🔢 Serial number: at the bottom of the box should be unique S/N (for example, LXA123456789CN). It can be checked on the website. mi.com/verify.
The original Xiaomi is never put in a box: chargers labeled "Made in Hong Kong" (real made in China), cables without the Mi logo, instructions with typos or on bad paper.
⚠️ Warning: Counterfeit premium models (e.g. Xiaomi 14 Ultra or Mix Fold 3) often come in boxes with unnecessary stickers, such as "Limited Edition" or "Global Version.
Example of the original and fake Xiaomi box 13T
2. Visual inspection of the device: details that give off fake
Even if the packaging looks perfect, the device itself could be a fake.
- 📱 Logo: On the original Xiaomi, the logo on the back is slightly recessed in the case and does not wear off when scratched by the nail. On fakes, it is often pasted or painted, which eventually peels off.
- 🔧 Assembling: the gaps between the case and the screen should be minimal (no more than 0.3 mm). Fakes often see gaps, and the cover can creak when pressed.
- 🎨 Color and texture: the original Xiaomi uses a matte or glossy surface with a uniform coating. Counterfeiting can have spots, bubbles under the film or an uneven shade.
- 🔌 Connectors: port USB-C It's symmetrical, without backlash, and fakes often have glue around the connector or wobbles when they plug in the cable.
For smartphones, check the display:
The original does not have a "moir effect" (wavy divorces) when scrolling through white pages.
- The viewing angle must be at least 170° — For example, the color is distorted at 45.°.
- Update frequency (e.g. 120 Hz per POCO F5) must be consistent with the stated.
For headphones (such as Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro), pay attention to:
Weight: The original headphones weigh exactly 4.9g each (specified in the specifications).
Sound quality: Counterfeits often have wheezing at high frequencies or weak bass.
Always if I don’t buy in the official store.|Only if the price is suspiciously low|I never check.|I only check smartphones, there is no other.-->
IMEI and serial number check
The most reliable way of verification is verification IMEI (For smartphones, or serial number (for any technology), this data is unique to each device and is tied to the Xiaomi database.
How to find out IMEI/serial:
- On a box (usually on a barcode sticker).
- In device settings: Settings → About phone → General information (for smartphones) or Settings → About device (for gadgets).
- Under the battery (for models with removable battery, for example, Redmi). 9A).
- On the sticker under the back cover (for some models, for example, POCO M3).
How to check:
1.For smartphones: enter *#06# in the "Phone" app - will appear IMEI. Compare it to the one on the box. If it doesn't match, it's fake.
2. Go to the official verification site: mi.com/verify.
3. Enter the serial number or IMEI. The system will show the model, date of production and the status of originality.
| Type of device | Where to find a number | Example of format |
|---|---|---|
| Smartphone | IMEI on the box, in the settings, under the battery | 861234567890123 |
| Headphones (Mi Buds) | Serial number on the box and in Bluetooth settings | M2104E1BG |
| Smartwatches (Mi Band) | On the back of the hull. | XMSH12345678 |
| Router (Mi Router) | On the sticker below. | R3G.20230512.123456 |
⚠️ Warning: Fraudsters sometimes clone IMEI If the site check was successful, but the price is too low (for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro for 20 000). ₽), It's a question of doubt. Use additional verification methods.
Find the number on the box and in the device settings|Compare the numbers – they should match|Check on the official website mi.com/verify|Ensure that the model and production date are consistent with the stated-->
4.Diagnostics through service codes and applications
If external inspection and room checks fail, use hidden service menus and Xiaomi-branded apps, which work even without the Internet.
Service codes for smartphones:
#4636### - battery, network and software version information. Forgeries may not include Battery information or display incorrect data (e.g., 5,000mAh capacity instead of 4,500mAh real data).
##6484## - Camera test: The original Xiaomi shows detailed information about modules, fakes - error or blank screen.
##64663## - Sensor test, often without proximity sensors or a gyroscope.
Verification annexes:
1. Mi Verify (official) - scans QR-code-box IMEI. Available on Google Play and App Store.
2. CPU-Z — It shows real-world CPU, RAM and memory specs. Compare it to the official model specifications.
3. AIDA64 — Checks sensors, battery and firmware, and counterfeits often show inconsistencies (like a Helio processor). G85 Snapdragon 7 Gen 2 instead of the Snapdragon).
For smart watches and fitness bracelets, use the Mi Fitness app:
- Connect the device via Bluetooth.
- Go to the Device Profile → Information.
Check firmware version and serial number, and fakes often display a 2019-2020 version of the software, even if the device is new.
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When you enter a service code, a message appears “Connection problem” or “Invalid” MMI The original Xiaomi supports all standard diagnostic codes.
5. Checking firmware and software
Fake Xiaomi often comes with custom firmware that mimics MIUI, But they contain vulnerabilities or ads. Here's how to test the software:
- 📱 Version. MIUI: Go to Settings. → The phone. → Version. MIUI. The original devices have a version no lower than MIUI 14 (for models 2023-2026).Fakes often work on MIUI 12 or more older versions.
- 🔄 Updates: C Settings → Update system check availability of updates. Original should be able to download the latest firmware.Fakes give an error or offer an "update" from a third-party site.
- 🛡️ Security: C Settings → Passwords and security should be the Find Device option, which is often not available on fakes or doesn't work.
- 📦 Pre-installed apps: the original Xiaomi have branded services (Mi Video, Mi Browser, GetApps) and fakes may contain unknown Chinese apps (e.g., fakes, UC browser APUS Launcher).
For a thorough check, use the command in ADB (computer):
adb shell getprop ro.miui.ui.version.nameThe original device will return the current version MIUI (for example, V14.0.12.0.TMBCNXM). A fake will give you an error or a non-existent version.
⚠️ Warning: Some fakes install a fake Play Market that is infected with viruses. Before buying, check if the settings have Google Play Protection (original Xiaomi supports it).
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If the device settings do not have the "Additional" section → Developer mode is a sure sign of a fake. Original Xiaomi always have this option.
Verification of accessories and components
Even if the device is original, the components can be fake, especially when they are counterfeited.
Chargers (power below the declared, there is no protection against overheating).
- Cables. USB-C (Slow charging, no support for Quick Charge).
- Covers and films (sitting poorly, turning yellow quickly).
How to check the charger:
1. Xiaomi’s original power supplies have:
- Mi or Xiaomi logo on the case.
- Power as indicated on the label (e.g, 33W For the Redmi Note 12 Pro+).
- Certificates CCC (China) or CE (Europe).
2. Connect charging to your phone and check the charging speed in Ampere (Android app). 33W-Charging a current less than 1500 mA is a fake.
How to check the cable USB-C:
The original cables have an authentication chip that the phone recognizes, so plug in the cable and check the notification: if the message "This device is not certified," the cable is fake.
- The original cable has a laser engraving with a serial number (for example, a laser engraving, MDY-12-EG).
| Accessory | Indications of the original | Signs of forgery |
|---|---|---|
| Charging. 67W (Xiaomi 13) | Weight 60 g, metal body, plug with magnet | Weight 40g, plastic case, no magnet |
| USB-C cable | Thick veins, the inscription "Made in China", chip in a plug | Thin cable, "For Mi" sign, no chip |
| Mi Protective Case Case Case | Tight landing, notches under the camera and speaker, Mi logo | Free landing, universal necklines, no logo |
7.Where to Buy Xiaomi to Avoid Counterfeiting
Even though you know all the methods of testing, it's easier to buy equipment from a reliable place in the first place.
- 🏬 Mi Store: in Russia, it is a brand name mi.com/ru, Europe — mi.com/global. Here. 100% Original products with guarantee.
- 🛒 Official partners: Svyaznoy, M.Video, Citilink (in Russia), Amazon (seller of "Mi Global Store"), AliExpress (official store Xiaomi Global Store).
- 🌍 International marketplaces: Banggood, Gearbest, Cafago – but only if the seller has the status of “Official Partner” or “Top Brand".
Where NOT to buy:
- With hands on Avito, Yula or in VKontakte groups (the risk of forgery is 70%).
Sellers with a rating below 95% on AliExpress or Wildberries.
In small online stores without an address and contacts (often sell "gray" devices without a warranty).
If you buy from hand, you must:
1. Ask for a photo of the box with the serial number and check it for mi.com/verify.
2.Meet at the official service center Xiaomi – there you can check the device for originality in 10-15 minutes (paid service, ~500 ₽).
3. Use escrow transactions (for example, through Tinkoff or Sberbank) to avoid losing money when cheating.
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On AliExpress, Xiaomi’s original products always have the “100% Original Xiaomi Product” and the “Mi Authorized Store” logo in their description.
8 What to do if you buy a fake
If after checking it turned out that your device is fake, act on the algorithm:
- Collect evidence: - Photo of the box, device and check (if any). - Screenshots of correspondence with the seller. - Video with a demonstration of malfunctions (for example, broken sensors).
- Contact the seller: - Write a claim demanding to return money or replace the goods. - On the marketplaces (Wildberries, Ozon) use the function "Return the goods." - On AliExpress, open the dispute (Open Dispute) and select the reason "Fake Product".
- If the seller refuses: - Write a complaint to the site (for example, in support of AliExpress or Yandex Market). - In Russia, you can file a complaint with Rospotrebnadzor or the court (if the amount is more than 10 000). ₽).
- Recycling fake: - Do not use fake gadgets - they can be dangerous (for example, lithium batteries in fake power bank often explode). - Pass for recycling to electronics reception points (for example, Ecotechnologies in Russia).
If the counterfeit was purchased on credit or installments:
Block the card that paid for the purchase immediately.
Write a statement to the bank about fraud (attach evidence).
In Russia, you can contact the police under article 159 of the criminal code of the Russian Federation ("Fraud").
⚠️ Warning: Do not try to overfish the fake device! this can lead to complete failure (for example, due to incompatibility of iron with firmware). MIUI).