Xiaomi Mi 4X: Release Date, History and Everything You Need to Know About the Model

If you're looking for information about the Xiaomi Mi 4X, you're probably interested in either the release date of the model or its specifications, but here's one important detail: officially, a smartphone with that name never existed in the Xiaomi lineup. In this article, we'll look at where the name came from, which models might be confused with the Mi 4X, and what really lies behind this designation.

You may have been referring to the Xiaomi Redmi 4X, a popular budget smartphone released in 2017, or the Mi 4i (2015), which is sometimes mistakenly called the β€œ4X.” Also, the variant with fakes or relabeled devices that sellers claim as β€œexclusive” versions is not excluded, and we will analyze all these versions to make sure you know exactly what device we are talking about.

If you are looking to buy or sell a Xiaomi Mi 4X, it is a sign of possible fraud: under this name, often sold re-impropriated or unoriginal devices.

Why is there no official Xiaomi Mi 4X?

Xiaomi strictly follows its name system, where the alphabetic indexes have a clear meaning:

  • πŸ“± Mi – flagship or premium series (e.g. Mi 5, Mi 6).
  • πŸ’° Redmi – budget and mid-budget models (for example, Redmi) 4X, Redmi Note 4X).
  • ⚑ POCO β€” sub-branding.

In this logic, Mi. 4X The number "4" refers to a generation, and the letter "X" is commonly used in the Redmi line to refer to upgraded versions (e.g. Redmi 4). β†’ Redmi 4X). Thus, the name Mi 4X It does not match any official Xiaomi model.

The probable reasons for the appearance of this name:

  1. Misprint or seller error: Mi 4i (2015) and Redmi 4X (2017) are often confused.
  2. Relabeled devices: Some sellers change names to sell older models under the guise of new ones.
  3. Counterfeiting: Chinese manufacturers of counterfeit equipment sometimes come up with similar names to trick buyers.
πŸ“Š What Xiaomi model were you looking for when you came across the "Mi" 4X"?
Redmi 4X
Mi 4i
Redmi Note 4X
Another model.
I don't know.

Xiaomi Redmi 4X: a real model, which is confused with the β€œMi 4X”

The most likely Mi 4X is the Xiaomi Redmi 4X, one of the most popular budget smartphones of 2017.

CharacteristicsMeaning
Release dateFebruary 14, 2017 (official presentation)
ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 435 (8 cores, 1.4 GHz)
RAM2/3 GB (depending on version)
Battery4100 mAh (one of the most powerful batteries in its class)
Screen.5.0" HD (1280Γ—720), IPS

The Redmi 4X is a logical extension of the Redmi 4 lineup, but with improved battery and optimized hardware.

  • πŸ”‹ Long operating time thanks to a battery of 4100 mAh.
  • πŸ’΅ Low price (at the start of sales - about 100)$).
  • πŸ“Έ 13 MP camera with phase autofocus (for the public sector – an excellent indicator).
  • πŸ›‘οΈ Metal case (rare for devices of such a price segment).

The model received positive reviews for its price-per-quality ratio and became one of the best-selling models in its class. If you’re looking for a smartphone with these specifications, the Redmi 4X is the right choice, not the mythical Mi 4X.

πŸ’‘

To make sure you are looking at a Redmi 4X, check the box and phone settings along the Settings β†’ About Phone β†’ Model. The original name should be Redmi 4X (codenamed santoni).

Xiaomi Mi 4i: Another candidate for the role of Mi 4X

Another model that is sometimes confused with the Mi 4X is the Xiaomi Mi 4i, which was released in April 2015 and was positioned as a β€œsimplified” version of the Mi 4 flagship.

  • πŸ–₯️ Screen: 5.0" Full HD (1920Γ—1080), IPS high-pixel density (441 ppi).
  • πŸ€– Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 615 (8 cores, 1.7 GHz).
  • πŸ“· Camera: main camera 13 MPP (f/2.0), frontal 5 MPP.
  • πŸ”Œ Battery: 3120 mAh (non-removable).

The Mi 4i was the first Xiaomi smartphone to be officially sold in India, and it was a huge hit there, but it also had its drawbacks:

⚠️ Attention: Mi 4i He suffered from overheating due to the Snapdragon 615 processor, and also had problems with autonomy due to the relatively small battery. If you are considering this model in 2026, consider its age and possible "diseases".

The difference between the Mi 4i and the Redmi 4X is simple:

  • πŸ” Design: Mi 4i It has a plastic case with a glossy back panel, and Redmi 4X β€” metallic.
  • πŸ“ Screen resolution: Mi has 4i Full HD, Redmi 4X β€” HD.
  • πŸ”‹ Battery capacity: 3120 mAh vs 4100 mAh.

How to authenticate Xiaomi if you are selling Mi 4X?

If a seller claims to have a Xiaomi Mi 4X, that's a good reason to be wary.

β˜‘οΈ How to spot a fake?

Done: 0 / 6

Additional signs of forgery:

  • πŸ“¦ Box: The original Xiaomi boxes are made of tight cardboard with clear print. Counterfeiting often has blurred logos or typos.
  • πŸ”‘ IMEI: Check it out with IMEI.info. IMEI It may be invalid or duplicated.
  • πŸ’» Firmware: the original Xiaomi works on MIUI. If the interface is different (for example, pure Android), this is a reason to doubt.

If the seller refuses to provide a serial number or a photo of the box, it is better to refuse to purchase, and it is also worth checking the reviews of the seller on the site (for example, on Avito or OLX).

What to do if you have already bought a fake?
If you find that you bought a non-original Xiaomi, try to return the money through the site (if the purchase was online) or contact the police with a report of fraud. Unfortunately, left-handed smartphones often have poor build quality, poor firmware support and can pose a danger (for example, due to poor-quality batteries).

Where to buy the original Xiaomi Redmi 4X or Mi 4i in 2026?

Although both models are long gone, they can still be found on the secondary market.

  1. Official Xiaomi retailers (such as Mi Store or authorized stores) – sometimes sell refurbished devices with a warranty.
  2. Sites tested: πŸ›’ Avito (look for highly rated sellers). 🌍 AliExpress (only official Xiaomi sellers). πŸ“¦ Yandex Market (filter by reviews).

Social media groups

VKontakte

Telegram

Average prices in the secondary market (2026):

  • Redmi 4X: 3000-5 000 rubles (depending on condition).
  • Mi 4i: 4000-7000 rubles (due to Full) HD-screen and a more powerful processor).

⚠️ Note: When buying a used smartphone, be sure to check: πŸ”‹ Battery status (via AccuBattery app). πŸ“Ά Operation of all antennas (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS). πŸ”§ If the seller refuses to show the device in working condition, it is a reason to doubt his honesty.

Alternatives to Xiaomi Mi 4X in 2026

If you need a modern alternative to the Redmi 4X or Mi 4i, look for the following models:

ModelYear of releaseAdvantagesPrice (2026)
Redmi 10A20225000 mAh battery, modern processor Helio G25~8000 rubles.
POCO M5202290 Hz screen, 50 MP camera, fast charging 18 W~12 000 rubles.
Redmi Note 122023AMOLED-screen, 48 MP camera, NFC~15,000 rubles.

These smartphones offer better performance, cameras and upgrade support compared to the legacy Redmi 4X and Mi 4i. If your budget is tight, you can consider used versions of newer models (such as the Redmi 9 or the POCO X3 NFC).

πŸ’‘

Buying a smartphone older than 5 years (like the Mi 4i or Redmi 4X) is only justified for secondary tasks (like a spare phone or a child).

Frequent questions about Xiaomi Mi 4X (FAQ)

❓ Is there an official Xiaomi Mi? 4X?
No, there has never been one in Xiaomi's lineup, most likely the Redmi 4X (2017) or Mi 4i (2015), and it's also possible that it's a fake name.
❓ How to distinguish Redmi 4X Mi 4i?
The main differences: Redmi 4X has a metal body, a battery of 4100 mAh and an HD screen. Mi 4i - plastic body, battery 3120 mAh and a Full HD screen. You can also check the code name: Redmi 4X - santoni, Mi 4i - ferrari.
❓ Should I buy Redmi? 4X 2026?
Only if you want the most budget phone for calls and simple tasks, for the Internet, games or photos, it is better to choose a more modern model (for example, the Redmi 10A or POCO M5).
❓ How to check the originality of Xiaomi IMEI?
Enter IMEI on IMEI.info. The original device should display the correct model, country of manufacture and release date, and the IMEI can be checked through the official Xiaomi service (if it is available for your region).
❓ Where to download the original firmware for Redmi 4X?
Official firmware is available on MIUI Downloads. For Redmi 4X, select the Redmi 4X (santoni) section. Install firmware only through the Mi Flash Tool or the built-in update!