Introduction: Why the question of SIM-maps 4X still relevant
7 years after the release of Xiaomi Redmi 4X (2017) This budget smartphone continues to be in demand in the secondary market โ especially in the CIS countries, where it is valued for reliability, maintainability and support of two devices. SIM-However, it is the configuration of the SIM tray that often causes confusion: users do not understand how to install the cards correctly, whether you can use a MicroSD with two different cards. SIM, How is the Chinese version different from the global version.
In this article, we will discuss the unique feature of Redmi. 4X โ hybrid 2+1, which allows you to choose between the second SIM-You can also find step-by-step installation instructions, comparisons with other Xiaomi models, and answers to frequent questions about operator compatibility.
Technical characteristics of the SIM slot in Redmi 4X: what the official documentation says
According to the manufacturerโs specifications, Xiaomi Redmi 4X It is equipped with a hybrid slot type Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM/MicroSD. It means:
- ๐ฑ The main slot is always for Nano-SIM (supports) 4G/LTE).
- ๐ Hybrid slot โ to choose from: second Nano-SIM or MicroSD (up to 256 GB).
- โก Network support: both slots are in operation 4G, But at the same time, only one is active. SIM High-speed Internet (the second one is used) 2G/3G).
Important: The Chinese version (Redmi 4X China) may have LTE frequency limits for some CIS operators. The global version (Redmi 4X Global) is devoid of this drawback, but both variants use the same hybrid slot.
Comparison with other Xiaomi models
| Model | Slot type | Max Max. SIM-map | MicroSD | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi 4X | Hybrid 2+1 | 2 | Yes (instead of the 2nd SIM) | 4G on just one SIM |
| Redmi Note 4X | Hybrid 2+1 | 2 | Yes. | Similar to the Redmi 4X |
| Redmi 5A | Individual slots | 2 | Yes. | MicroSD in a separate slot |
| Poco X3 | Hybrid 2+1 | 2 | Yes. | 4G support for both SIMs |
โ ๏ธ Note: If you are buying a Redmi 4X Hands on hand, check the integrity of the sealing gum on the sim tray, which can cause dust and moisture to enter the case, especially for devices that have been operated without a cover.
Step-by-step instructions: how to install correctly SIM-maps 4X
Installation process SIM-map 4X It requires care due to the fragile plastic tray. Follow this instruction to avoid breakdowns:
- Turn off your smartphone (not necessarily, but it is recommended for safety).
- Find a tray for SIM-cards on the left end of the body (near the volume buttons).
- Use a paper clip or a special key (comes complete) to press the hole and extract the tray.
- Put it in. SIM-map: ๐ฑ Slot 1 (top) โ Nano-SIM (required). ๐ Slot 2 (bottom) โ Nano-SIM or MicroSD (to choose from!).
Carefully insert the tray back before the click.
Is the smartphone off-charging?
Do you have a paper clip or key to remove the tray?
Does the size match? SIM-map?
Have you damaged the sealing gum on the tray?-->
After installation, the smartphone does not see SIM-map:
- ๐ Reset the device.
- ๐ถ Check if the Settings option is enabled โ SIM-maps and mobile networks โ [Choice SIM] โ Turn on.
- ๐ ๏ธ Clear the contacts. SIM-dried-cloth cards (without alcohol!).
โ ๏ธ Note: Do not use Micro-SIM with Nano-SIM adapter - this can lead to a jamming of the tray.If your card is not suitable for size, contact the operator for a replacement with Nano-SIM.
๐ก
If you travel frequently, buy two Nano-SIMs from the same carrier with the same number, allowing you to quickly switch between them without losing communication when one card is occupied on another device.
Can we use two? SIM-MicroSD and cards simultaneously in Redmi 4X?
No, at Redmi. 4X It is not possible to use two at the same time. SIM-This is a limitation of the hybrid slot architecture. 2+1, It's a physical thing that doesn't have room for the three elements:
- ๐ฑ๐ฑ Two. SIM-Cards (without MicroSD).
- ๐ฑ๐พ One. SIM-map + MicroSD (maximum 256 GB).
If both are critically important SIM-Cards and additional memory, consider alternatives:
- ๐ Cloud storage (Google Drive, Mi Cloud) for photos and documents.
- ๐ OTG-Adapter for connecting a flash drive (up to 1 TB) via USB-Type C.
- ๐ฑ Smartphones with a separate microSD slot, such as Redmi 9A POCO M3.
How to get around the hybrid slot limitation?
Which one should you choose: a second SIM or a microSD?
The answer depends on your priorities:
| Script | Recommendation | Reason. |
|---|---|---|
| Frequent travel abroad | Two. SIM-map | Convenient to use local SIM for the Internet |
| Lots of photos/video, little internal memory | One SIM + MicroSD | 16/32GB of internal memory is quickly running out |
| Working and personal SIM | Two. SIM-map | Separation of contacts and calls |
| I use cloud services. | Two. SIM-map | MicroSD is not needed if there is enough space in Google Photos |
Redmi Compatibility 4X with the operators: which SIM-maps work
Redmi 4X supports most LPG carriers, but there are nuances with LTE and VoLTE frequencies.
Support for country networks
- ๐ท๐บ Russia: MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, Tele:2 โ full-time 4G (Band 3/7/20).
- ๐บ๐ฆ Ukraine: Kyivstar, Vodafone, Lifesell โ 4G works, but some tariffs may require manual adjustment APN.
- ๐ฐ๐ฟ Kazakhstan: Kcell, Beeline, Tele2 โ 4G It is supported, but in remote regions it can switch to 3G.
- ๐ง๐พ Belarus: MTS, A1, Life - Full compatibility.
To check compatibility with your operator:
- Go to Settings. โ SIM-maps and mobile networks โ [Choice SIM] โ Access points (APN).
- Compare the settings with the official operator parameters (usually listed on their website).
- If the internet is not working, create a new APN manually.
โ ๏ธ Note: On the Chinese version of Redmi 4X There may be no support for Band 20 (800 MHz) frequency, which is used by some operators for improved coverage. 4G In rural areas, check the model through the IMEI IMEI.info.
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If the smartphone does not catch 4G, Try to manually select the network: Settings โ SIM-map โ Type of network โ 4G (Sometimes the automatic mode is mistakenly switched to 3G.
VoLTE problems and their solution
Redmi 4X supports VoLTE (voice calls over 4G), but the feature can be disabled by default.
- Go to Settings. โ SIM-maps and mobile networks โ [Choice SIM] โ Enable VoLTE.
- If you donโt have an option, upgrade to the latest version (MIUI 12+).
- For operators MTS and Beeline may require the installation of a special profile (ask the operator).
Frequent errors of users when working with SIM-maps at Redmi 4X
Even experienced users sometimes face problems when setting up SIM-map 4X. Here are the most common mistakes and their solutions:
Mistake 1: "No network" or "SIM-map not identified"
Causes and solutions:
- ๐ Bad contact: Remove the tray, wipe the contacts SIM-cards and slots with an alcohol napkin, then install again.
- ๐ถ Wrong. APN: Remove the current one. APN Create a new one manually (options can be found on the operatorโs website).
- ๐ Software glitch: Reboot your smartphone or reset your network settings in Settings โ System system โ Resetting settings โ Resetting mobile network settings.
Mistake 2: The Internet is not working on the second SIM-map
In Redmi 4X, only one slot supports 4G at a time.
- Go to Settings. โ SIM-maps and mobile networks โ [Choice SIM] โ Preferred type of network.
- For the main SIM (with the Internet), choose 4G.
- For the second SIM, choose 3G or 2G (otherwise the Internet will only work on one card).
Error 3: The smartphone does not see the MicroSD after installation
Possible causes:
- ๐พ Incompatible format: format the card into FAT32 or exFAT via PC.
- ๐ Bad contact: Try inserting the card into another slot (if an adapter is used).
- ๐ฑ Limitation MIUI: Some firmware blocks cards in volume >128GB. Update the software.
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If the MicroSD is not detected, try connecting it to your computer via a card reader and check for errors with the CHKDSK utility (for Windows) or Disk Utility (for Mac).
Redmi alternatives 4X: Xiaomi smartphones with better support SIM-map
If the Redmi 4X hybrid slot doesnโt suit you, consider more modern Xiaomi models with improved configuration:
Top.-3 Models with a separate microSD slot
- ๐ฑ Redmi 9A (2020): ๐ 2 Nano-SIM + MicroSD (up to 512 GB). ๐ถ Support 4G both SIM. ๐ฐ Price: ~10 000 โฝ (b).
- ๐ฑ Poco M3 (2020): ๐ 2 Nano-SIM + microSD. ๐ 6000mAh battery. ๐ฎ Snapdragon 662 processor (better than Redmi) 4X).
- ๐ฑ Redmi Note 10 (2021): ๐ 2 Nano-SIM + microSD. ๐ท 48 MP camera (vs. 13 MP in Redmi) 4X). ๐ Support for VoLTE on both sides SIM.
Comparison with Redmi 4X
| Parameter | Redmi 4X | Redmi 9A | Poco M3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SIM count | 2 (hybrid slot) | 2 + MicroSD | 2 + MicroSD |
| 4G on both SIMs | No. | Yes. | Yes. |
| Max, the volume of the MicroSD | 256GB | 512GB | 512GB |
| Processor | Snapdragon 435 | Helio G25 | Snapdragon 662 |
If you want maximum carrier compatibility, look for models that support the Band 20 (like the Redmi Note 11 or Poco X4 Pro) that work better in rural areas where 4G coverage is limited.