How to restart Xiaomi Redmi Note 4X without the power button: all working methods

Broken power button on Xiaomi Redmi Note 4X (codenamed mido) is a common problem that turns a normal reboot into a real puzzle. Without physical access to the power key, users face a hung screen, the inability to turn off or turn on the device, and sometimes full lockdown of access to the system. In this article, we will discuss 5 proven ways to reboot that work even when the button is broken, including methods through ADB, Recovery Mode, charging manipulation and battery.

It's important to understand that not all methods are universal. For example, if a smartphone is completely discharged or password-locked, some of the instructions will not be available, we will specify the limitations of each method and provide alternatives, and you will learn how to temporarily replace the power button function software to avoid repeated problems.

Before you start, check:

  • πŸ”‹ Battery level (minimum 20% for stable operation).
  • πŸ”Œ The presence of the original cable USB Type-C (faulty wires may interrupt the connection).
  • πŸ’» Access to a computer with Xiaomi drivers installed (for methods with the ADB).

πŸ“Š Why did you break the switch on the Redmi Note? 4X?
Mechanical damage (dropped/hit)
Wear (the button stopped pressing over time)
We got liquid.
Another reason.

1.Reboot via charging connection (the easiest way)

If the Redmi Note 4X is stuck but reacts to the cable connection, this method will work in 60% of cases.

Instructions:

  1. Connect your smartphone to the charger (preferably the original 5V/2A).
  2. Wait 10-15 seconds – the charging animation should appear on the screen.
  3. Turn off the cable and immediately reconnect it. Repeat the action 3-4 times at intervals of 2 seconds.
  4. If the screen goes out and turns on again, the device will reboot.

⚠️ Note: This method does not work if the battery is completely discharged or the smartphone is locked with a pattern lock. USB-C.

Why does it work? When you plug in a charge, the Redmi Note 4X automatically wakes up from sleep, which is sometimes enough to reset the hanging processes. If after a few attempts, you don't get a result, move on to the next way.

The charger is good (try another one)

The cable is not damaged (check for curves)

Smartphone connector is clean (no dust / debris)

The screen responds to touch (if not, the problem is deeper)

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2.Using Recovery Mode for Forced Reboot

Recovery Mode is a built-in recovery mode that allows you to restart your smartphone without a power button. On the Redmi Note 4X, you can log in via a keyboard combination or ADB.

Method 1: Button combination (if the screen is running)

  • πŸ”§ Keep the Volume up. + Loudness down at the same time.
  • πŸ”Œ Connect your smartphone to charging (without releasing buttons).
  • πŸ“± Hold the keys for 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo and Recovery menu appear.

Method 2: Through ADB (if USB-debugging was included earlier)

  1. Connect your smartphone to your PC and open the command line.
  2. Enter the command: adb reboot recovery
  3. After you log in to Recovery, select Reboot β†’ Reboot to System.

MethodConditions requiredImplementation timeSuccess
Button combinationWorking screen, access to volume buttons1-2 minutes70%
ADB-teamOn. USB-debugging, PC, drivers3-5 minutes90%
Through the Mi Flash ToolUnlocked bootloader, firmware10+ minute95%

⚠️ Note: If you ask for a password in Recovery and you don't remember it, this method won't help. Also avoid the Wipe Data option - it will reset all data!

What happens if the Recovery Mode does not open?
If nothing happens after holding the volume buttons, it is possible: 1) the motherboard is damaged (diagnosis is required). 2 The bootloader is disabled (you need to unlock through the Mi Unlock Tool). 3 The smartphone is in the β€œbrick” state (you need to flash through EDL Mode).

3.Reboot via ADB (for power users)

Android Debug Bridge (ADB) is a powerful tool for managing a smartphone via a PC. If the Redmi Note 4X previously included USB debugging, this method will be the most reliable.

Step-by-step:

  1. Download and install Google’s Platform Tools.
  2. Connect your smartphone to your PC and open the Command Prompt in the adb folder.
  3. Check the connection command: adb devices (the name of your device should be displayed).
  4. Reboot: Adb shell reboot

If the smartphone is frozen and does not respond to commands, try a forced reboot:

adb shell "echo 1 > /proc/sys/kernel/sysrq" && adb shell "echo b > /proc/sysrq-trigger"

This command simulates hardware reset and works even in high freezes, but can lead to the loss of unsaved data.

Another option is to reboot in Fastboot:

adb reboot bootloader

You can then return to the system with the command:

fastboot reboot

1) Reinstall Xiaomi drivers via Mi Flash Tool.

(2) Use another USB-port USB 2.0).

3) Disable the antivirus - it can block adb.exe.-->

4. Battery recovery (last resort)

If the Redmi Note 4X doesn't respond to any manipulation, there's a physical power outage, and this model has a non-removable battery, but it can be temporarily disconnected by disassembling the body, which is guaranteed to reset all the processes, but it requires caution.

What you need:

  • πŸ”§ Plastic blade or mediator.
  • πŸ”¨ Cross screwdriver (size) PH00).
  • 🧲 Suction (to take the screen off).

Disassembly instructions:

  1. Turn off your smartphone (if possible) and remove the back cover by shoveling it off the bottom edge.
  2. Unscrew 10 screws that fix the metal plate.
  3. Carefully disconnect the battery plume (it is located at the top under the plate).
  4. Wait 1-2 minutes, then plug the plume back in and collect the phone.

⚠️ Warning: Disassembly will void warranty (if it is still valid), there is also a risk of damaging the plumes of the screen or camera.

πŸ’‘

Disconnecting the battery is the only way to restart the Redmi Note 4X if it is completely locked and other methods fail.However, once built, it may be necessary to re-activate the device via Mi Account.

5. Software emulation of the power button

If the power button on the Redmi Note 4X breaks permanently, you can assign an alternate key to turn the screen on/off, which is a temporary solution, but it will eliminate the need to disassemble the phone every time.

Method 1: Through setting up special features

  1. Go to Settings β†’ Special Opportunities β†’ Power button.
  2. Activate the option to use the volume button to wake up.
  3. Now a short tap of Volume up will unlock the screen.

Method 2: Applications for button emulation

  • πŸ“± Button Mapper – allows you to reassign actions to any keys.
  • πŸ”„ Power Button to Volume Button – a special solution for replacing the power button.
  • πŸ› οΈ Gravity Screen – automatically turns on / off the screen when the smartphone moves.

Limitations:

Applications require permission to use special features (issued manually in the settings).

Some features (e.g., shutdown) may not be available without root rights.

After restarting, the settings may reset (you need to adjust again).

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When trying to reboot the Redmi Note 4X without a power button, users often face typical problems.

Problem 1: The smartphone does not respond to the charging connection.

  • πŸ”Œ Check the cable and power supply (use original accessories).
  • 🧹 Clean the dust connector with a toothpick (not metal objects!).
  • πŸ”‹ Try charging from another source (e.g. power bank).

Problem 2: ADB can't see the device.

  • πŸ’» Install Xiaomi drivers manually through Device Manager.
  • πŸ”„ Switch the connection mode to File Transfer (MTP).
  • πŸ“± Turn on Debugging. USB Developer settings (if the screen is working).

Problem 3: After disassembly, the phone does not turn on.

  • πŸ”§ Check if the battery fits tightly and if all the plumes are connected.
  • πŸ”Œ Connect the charge for 30 minutes – sometimes it takes time to initialize the battery.
  • πŸ“ž If nothing helps, the fee may be damaged (diagnosis is needed).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions

Can I reboot the Redmi Note 4X via SMS or call?
No, the Redmi Note 4X doesn't have a built-in SMS or incoming reboot feature, but you can use an automatic alarm: Set your alarm soon. Charge, sometimes it wakes up the device. Remote reboot requires root access and special applications like Tasker.
What if the phone needs a password after rebooting, but the screen is not working?
If the smartphone is locked and the sensor is not responsive, options are limited: Connect the keyboard over USB-OTG and enter the password. Use ADB to delete the password file (root required): adb shell rm /data/system/gesture.key Reset settings via Recovery (data loss).
How to check if the power button on the Redmi Note 4X works?
To diagnose the button: Turn on Developer Mode (click 7 times on Build Number in Settings). Go to Settings β†’ System β†’ Developer β†’ Button Activity Monitor. Press the Power button - if there is no reaction in the logs, it is faulty. You can also use the Button Test application from Google Play.
How much does it cost to repair the power button on the Redmi Note 4X?
The cost depends on the type of breakdown: πŸ”§ Replacement of a button (if the problem is in the micro-switch): 800-1500 β‚½. πŸ“± Repair of the plume (if the contacts left): 1000–2000 β‚½. πŸ”„ Replacement of motherboard (for serious injuries): 3000–5000 β‚½. In official service centers Xiaomi price may be higher by 20-30%.
Can I turn on the Redmi Note 4X without a power button if it is completely discharged?
If the battery is empty, no software methods will work. The only options are: Connect the charge and wait 15-20 minutes (sometimes the charge indicator appears); disassemble the phone and connect the battery directly to the charger (requires skills); use a USB-OTG with an external battery (if supported); if the battery is completely dead and does not hold the charge, it will have to be replaced.