Replacement of the rod in the handle Xiaomi: instructions with photos and videos

Xiaomi's smart pens aren't just writing accessories, they're high-tech devices with pressure sensors, Bluetooth modules, and even built-in batteries. However, as with any mechanical pen, the ink runs out over time and the rod wears out. Unlike conventional stationery, replacing the rod in the Mijia Smart Pen or Xiaomi Smart Ballpoint Pen is a cautionary exercise: wrong actions can damage electronic components or void the warranty.

In this article, we will discuss how to change the rod in the pens of Xiaomi of different models, from the budget Mijia Pen to the premium Xiaomi Smart Pen 2. You will learn what tools you need, where to buy the original rods, and how to avoid typical mistakes. And if your pen stopped writing after replacing, at the end of the article there is a section with solutions to the most common problems.

What Xiaomi handles support replacement of the rod

Not all Xiaomi smart pens have removable rods, here is a full list of models that can be replaced:

• 📝 Xiaomi Mijia Smart Ballpoint Pen (first generation, 2018) – supports rods D1 and G2.
• 🖊️ Xiaomi Mijia Smart Pen 2 (2020) – compatible only with the original Xiaomi rods such as Mijia Refill.
• 🎨 Xiaomi Smart Pen for Mi Pad (for tablets) – uses Wacom rods EMR, You can only replace it at the service center.
• ✏️ Xiaomi Youpin Ballpoint Pen (budget version) – standard rod ISO 12757-2 (Pilot G2 Zebra Jimnie).

If your model is not listed, check the documentation or box — it should indicate the type of rod. rods for electronic pens (for example, Xiaomi Smart Pen 2) often have a proprietary connector and are not compatible with counterparts from other brands.

Types of rods for Xiaomi handles: which one to choose

Not only does the writing quality depend on the type of rod, but it also depends on the pen compatibility. Xiaomi pens use three basic standards:

Important: Mijia Refill rods for Smart Pen 2 have a built-in chip that syncs with the handle. Using non-original rods can cause pressure sensor malfunctions.

Where to buy the rods:

• 🛒 Official Xiaomi store (on mi.com or in branded stores).
• 🌍 AliExpress – Look for sellers with a rating above 98% and reviews about compatibility.
• 🏬 Office stores (for standards) D1/G2).

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Before buying, check the labeling on the old rod – it is usually applied to the plastic case next to the tip.

Preparing for replacement: tools and precautions

To replace the rod in the Xiaomi handle, you will need:

• 🔧 Flat screwdriver (for models with screw fastening).
• 🧲 Small magnet (to avoid losing the cogs).
• 🧻 Wraps without pile (for cleaning the case).
• 🔍 Lupa (optional, for working with small details).

⚠️ Warning: If your pen has a built-in battery (such as the Smart Pen 2), disconnect it from the device via Bluetooth before replacing the rod and wait for the battery to discharge completely (or remove the battery if possible.

Also prepare the workplace:

• Cover the table with a soft cloth so as not to scratch the body of the handle.
• Use good lighting – many of the mounts in Xiaomi handles are miniature.
• If the pen is synced to a tablet or smartphone, back up your notes (in the Mi Notes or Xiaomi Smart Pen app).

Take a picture of the pen from all sides.|

Check the battery charge (if any)|

Prepare a new rod and tools|

Disconnect the pen from Bluetooth devices-->

Step-by-step: how to change the rod in the handle Xiaomi

The replacement process depends on the pen model, and below is a general-purpose manual that is suitable for most Xiaomi devices.

1. Disassembly of the hull

In most models, the rod is hidden under the top cover or cap.

1. Remove the cap (if any).
2. Rotate the top of the case counterclockwise (for the Mijia Smart Pen) 1/2).
3. If the lid does not lend itself, put it with a flat screwdriver (but do not apply force - the plastic is fragile!).

In the Smart Pen for Mi Pad handles, the rod is fixed with a latch.

1. Press the button on the side of the case (usually indicated by the arrow).
2. Pull the rod on yourself - it should come out without effort.

2. Removal of the old rod

After the opening of the hull:

• 🔄 Carefully pull out the rod, holding it by the metal tip (don't pull on the plastic!).
• 🧹 Clean the inner cavity of dust and ink residues with a napkin.
• 🔍 Check if there are any small parts inside (springs, sealing rings) - they can not be lost!

Installation of a new rod

Insert the rod strictly in the direction of the arrow (it is usually applied to the body or rod). For Smart Pen 2:

1. Combine the contacts of the rod with the connector in the handle (they must click).
2. Make sure the rod sits to the point - otherwise the pressure sensor will not work properly.
3. Close the lid, rotating it clockwise until the click.

For screw-mounted models (e.g. Youpin Ballpoint Pen):

1. Put the rod in the groove.
2. Then, turn the sleeve away (do not smack it!).

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the seemingly simple process, many users make mistakes that lead to a break in the pen.

• 🔧 Using unoriginal rods – this can lead to leakage of ink or damage to the pressure sensor (in Smart Pen 2).
• 💥 Application of excessive force during disassembly - snaps or threads on the body break.
• 🔋 Replacement of the rod with Bluetooth enabled - in rare cases this causes a failure of the firmware of the handle.
• 💧 Ink hitting electronic components – if the rod leaks, immediately wipe the contacts with alcohol.

⚠️ Attention: In the handles of Xiaomi Smart Pen 2, the rod is associated with the calibration of the pressure sensor. After replacing, be sure to recalibrate the handle in the Mi Smart Pen app (Settings section). → Otherwise, the sensitivity to the press will be incorrect.

If, after the pen is replaced,

• 🖋️ Do not write - check if the rod is inserted correctly (it may not have reached the end).
• 📱 Not connected to the device – restart the handle (press the power button for 10 seconds).
• ⚡ It discharges quickly - perhaps the new rod has increased resistance (characteristic of non-original parts).

Where to order original rods and how much it costs

The cost and availability of the rods depend on the pen model. Here are the current prices for 2026:

On AliExpress you can find sets of 5-10 rods at a price of 500 ₽, But be careful: cheap ones often leak or leave a divorce. Xiaomi's original rods are sold in branded hologram packaging.

Tip: If you use a pen often, order the rods in stock - shipping from China can take up to a month.

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For pressure sensor handles (such as the Smart Pen 2), use only original rods. Analogs can disable electronic components.

What to do if the handle stops working after replacing the rod

If after installing a new rod, the pen does not write or respond to the presses, follow the following steps:

1. Check the rod fixation, it should sit tight, without backlash. Try to take it out and re-insert it.
2. Clean the contacts - wipe the metal parts of the rod and the connector in the handle with an alcohol napkin.
3. Reset the knob: 1. Press the power button for 10-15 seconds. 2. Release and wait 30 seconds. 3. Turn the knob on again.
4. Update your firmware — sometimes crashes are due to software errors. Check for updates in the Mi Smart Pen app.
5. Reset settings (for Smart Pen 2): 1. Open the Mi Smart Pen app. 2. Go to Settings → Reset to factory 3. Confirm the action.

If the handle is still not working:

• 📞 Contact the Xiaomi Service Center (the warranty is maintained if you used the original rod).
• 🔧 Check the pen on another device – maybe the problem is in the tablet or smartphone.

FAQ: Frequent questions about replacing the rod in Xiaomi pens