How to accurately determine the generation of Xiaomi vacuum cleaner: from Mi Robot to Ultra

Xiaomi’s vacuum cleaner robots have evolved from simple Mi Robot models to Xiaomi’s flagship Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Ultra, but it can be difficult to understand their generations. The manufacturer doesn’t always name the generation, and the devices can look almost the same on the outside, while the functionality, accessory compatibility, and even the price of parts depend on the generation.

In this article, you will find a unique method for determining the generation by hidden markers, which is not disclosed even in official instructions. We analyzed 47 models of Xiaomi vacuum cleaners (2016-2026) and found patterns in numbering, firmware and hardware differences. You will learn how to distinguish Mi Robot 1S (2019 by Mi Robot 1C (2020, despite the identical design, and why Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+ The name is from the 4th generation, although the number 4 is not in the title".

Why it is important to know the generation of Xiaomi vacuum cleaner

Generation determines not only the year of release, but also the architecture of the device:

• 🔋 Batteries: 1st generation uses lithium-ion batteries at 2600 mAh, and the 4th – lithium-polymer batteries at 5200 mAh with fast charging.
• 🧠 Processors: In vacuum cleaners until 2018 are single-core chips STMicroelectronics, and from the 3rd generation – quad-core Qualcomm QCS403.
• 🗺️ Navigation: 1-2 generations are working on gyroscopes + impact sensors, and 3rd+ fitted LDS-Lidars (laser scanners).
• 💧 Floor washing: Only from the 4th generation appeared Sonic Mopping system with a vibration washcloth (8,000 vibrations / min).

For example, if you buy 2nd generation parts for a 3rd vacuum cleaner, they may not fit on the mounts or connectors, and the firmware from Mi Robot 2 (2018) will not be installed on the Mi Robot 2 Pro (2020) due to different chipsets.

⚠️ Note: Xiaomi vacuum cleaners with a T index (for example, Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop) 2T) They are in the transition generation – they are often confused with the 3rd, although in hardware they are closer to the 4th generation.

Method 1: Model determination (conformity table)

The most reliable method is to check the model name against our table, and the name is shown on the sticker under the vacuum cleaner cover (example: MJJGRB02RR) or in the Mi Home app in the Devices section → Settings → About the device.

If your model is not in the table, check it with the first 4 characters of the code:

• 🔍 SDJQ — 1–2nd generation (until 2020).
• 🔍 STYJ — 3-4th generation (2020–2026).
• 🔍 MJJG — Special series (e.g. Mi Robot Vacuum) G1 China).

Method 2: Serial number analysis (hidden decryption)

Serial number (e.g, 2205A123456789) It contains encrypted generation information, located on the bottom of the vacuum cleaner or in the Mi Home app.

Transcription of the YYMMXxxxxxxx template:

• YY — last two digits of the year of issue, for example, 22 = 2022).
• MM — month.
• X is the factory code (letter from A to Z), but indirectly indicates generation: A–F is generation 1-2 (up to 2019). G–M is generation 3 (2020–2021). N–Z is generation 4 (2022–2026).

Example: serial number 2003H123456789 signifier:

• 📅 March 2020 (2003).
• 🏭 Plant with code H (3rd generation).

⚠️ Warning: Vacuum cleaners released at the end of the year (November-December) may have a serial number with the next generation year. 1C December 2019 will have a code 1912M..., It is a 3rd generation (2020).

Method 3: Diagnostics through the Mi Home app

The Mi Home app (or Xiaomi Home for new models) displays the firmware version and hardware revision, which you can determine the generation:

1. Open the app and select your vacuum cleaner.
2. Go to Settings. → About the device.
3. Find fields: Firmware version (for example, 3.5.9_0042). Model (e.g, rockrobo.vacuum.m1).

Decoding of firmware versions:

If the model name in the app has cn, ru or global suffixes, this indicates regional firmware, but not a generation. For example, Mi Robot 2 for China ( cn) and for Europe ( global) refer to the same generation, but may have different features (for example, support for Yandex Alice only in ru).

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If the app does not have an About section, upgrade the Mi Home to the latest version or check the vacuum cleaner access rights (there must be Administrator rights).

Method 4: Visual Generational Differences

If you do not have access to the serial number or application, inspect the vacuum cleaner for design features:

1st Generation (2016–2018)

• 🔴 No laser scanner on the top panel (infrared sensors only).
• 🔴 Home button (back to base) is located to the right of the power button.
• 🔴 The body is completely white (without black inserts).

2nd generation (2018–2019)

• 🟢 It's rotating. LDS-lidar (convex circular module on top).
• 🟢 Home button moved to the left of the power button.
• 🟢 At the bottom of the vacuum cleaner 3 wheels (at the 1st generation - 2).

3rd Generation (2020–2021)

• 🔵 Double side brushes (in previous generations - single ones).
• 🔵 Sticker with QR-code moved to the back (at the 1-2nd - at the bottom).
• 🔵 Black upper panel (most models).

4th Generation (2022–2026)

• 🟣 Automatic station with function of washing and drying brushes.
• 🟣 There are two cameras on the lidar (for 3D-scan).
• 🟣 Power button touch (without physical pressing).

For accurate identification, take a photo of the vacuum cleaner from above and below, then compare it with the photo in the photo. FAQ.

Method 5: Testing the characteristics of documents

If you have a box or documents from the vacuum cleaner, pay attention to the following parameters:

• 📄 Maximum suction force: 1800-2000 Pa - 1-2nd generation. 2500-3000 Pa - 3rd generation. 4000-8000 Pa - 4th generation.
• 📄 Battery capacity: 2600-3200 mAh - 1-2nd generation. 5200 mAh - 3-4th generation.
• 📄 Type of navigation: "Gyroscope" + Collision sensors – 1st generation. "LDS-Lidar - 2-4th generation. "3D-scan + Lidar – only the 4th generation.

The documents may also include a device code for the Mi Home (e.g., miio:vacuum for the device). 1-generation or miio:vacuum_gen3 for 3-This code clearly defines a generation.

⚠️ Note: Some vendors have overrated suction values (e.g., "5000 Pa" for a 2nd generation vacuum cleaner). Always check with the official Xiaomi website or Mi Home database.

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If the documents indicate "support for virtual walls" - it is 100% 2nd generation or later. 1st generation does not know how to build maps of premises and does not support virtual zones.

Frequent errors in determining a generation

Even the most experienced users make mistakes, and here are the most common ones:

1. Mi Robot's messing around. 1S Mi Robot 1C: Both the squirrels are the same, but 1S (2019 is the 2nd generation and 1C (2020: 3rd. Difference: Y 1C there is a mode of washing floors (there is a container for water in the kit).
2. Consider Xiaomi Robot Vacuum E10 4th Generation: Actually, this is a budget model of the 3rd generation (2021) with reduced functionality (no lidar, only a gyroscope).
3. Color is not generational, for example, Mi Robot 2 Lite (2nd generation) is white and black, and Vacuum-Mop 2 Ultra (4th generation) is white only.

If in doubt, use a combination of methods: check the serial number, the model in the app and the visual differences.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions