How to insert a SIM card in Xiaomi Redmi 5: instructions with a photo and tips for choosing a format

Xiaomi Redmi 5 is one of the most popular budget smartphones of 2018, which is still actively used. SIM-maps: where the slot is, how to open the tray correctly, what format of the SIM card is needed and whether you can use two cards at the same time, and in this article we will analyze all the nuances from tool preparation to solving typical installation problems.

The Redmi 5 features a hybrid slot: you can choose between two Nano-SIMs or one Nano-SIM+ MicroSD. This creates confusion for beginners, so we’ll explain in detail how to make the configuration choices. You’ll also learn which tools you’ll need (hint: not everyone knows you can use a regular stationery brace instead of a paper clip!), and what to do if your smartphone doesn’t see the SIM after installation.

Preparation: what you will need to install a SIM card

Before you start installing, make sure you have everything you need, and without the right tools, you risk damaging the tray or the smartphone itself.

• 📱 Xiaomi Redmi 5 (Switched Off!) Make sure the battery is at least 20% charged - this will eliminate a sudden shutdown during the process.
• 🔧 A paper clip or a special key to retrieve the tray. The Redmi 5 comes with a plastic tool, but if it's not there, an unbended stationery clip will do.
• 📇 Nano-SIM (or Micro-SIM with adapter). Redmi 5 uses Nano-SIM format only - Micro-SIM without trimming will not work!

If you plan to use two SIM cards or a SIM + memory card, you should prioritize your options. In the Redmi 5 hybrid slot, the second SIM and MicroSD don't work simultaneously, you have to choose one. You can read the next section about how to optimally allocate slots.

Hybrid slot in Redmi 5: Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM or Nano-SIM + MicroSD?

One of the key features of the Xiaomi Redmi 5 is a hybrid SIM card slot, which means you have two configuration options:

1. Two Nano-SIMs (slot 1 + slot 2) – if you need two phone lines (for example, for work and personal calls).
2. One Nano-SIM + MicroSD (slot 1 + slot for memory card) – if priority is given to additional storage.

It's important to understand that you can't use two SIMs and a memory card at the same time, you have to sacrifice either a second SIM or a memory extension, and here's a comparative table of the pros and cons of each option:

If you travel frequently or use local SIM cards, it makes sense to choose the option with two Nano-SIM. If internal memory is catastrophically lacking (especially in the 16 GB version), it is better to sacrifice the second SIM in favor of MicroSD. Remember that SDXC memory cards (64 GB and above) need to be formatted in exFAT - otherwise Redmi 5 will not see them.

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Before buying a MicroSD, check its speed. Redmi 5 cards are the best UHS-I (U1) cards – they will provide fast video recording in 4K and smooth application operation.

Step-by-step: how to open the tray and insert the sim

Now, to the process itself, follow the instructions carefully, because improper installation can cause contact damage or jamming of the tray.

Step 1: Turn off your smartphone. It's a must! Inserting a SIM card when the device is on can cause the network to crash or damage the communication module. Wait for the screen to shut down completely.

Step 2: Find a SIM card slot. In Redmi 5, it's on the left end (if you hold your phone with your screen), and next to that, you'll see a small hole, which is a tray extraction jack.

Step 3: Remove the tray. Put a paper clip or a special key into the hole and press slightly until the tray is pushed out.

⚠️ Attention: Don't use excessive force! If the tray doesn't come out, check if the tip of the paper clip is bent. In Redmi 5, the extraction mechanism is fragile - if you press hard, you can break the spring.

Step 4: Set the SIM card(s) and place the tray on a flat surface and place the SIM card(s) according to the scheme:

• 📱 Slot 1 (top) - basic Nano-SIM (supports) 4G).
• 📱 Slot 2 (bottom) – second Nano-SIM or MicroSD (but not both at the same time!).

Make sure the golden contacts of the SIMKA look down and the bevelled angle matches the shape of the tray.

Step 5: Put the tray back in. Push it carefully until you click. If the tray doesn't come in all the way, check if the SIMs are properly installed - they may be protruding beyond the edges.

Step 6: Turn on your smartphone and wait for the network to be determined. If the SIM doesn't recognize, restart the device or check the network settings in Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the seemingly simple process, many users make mistakes that lead to network problems or phone damage, and the most common ones are:

• 🚫 Using a Micro-SIM without an adapter. The Redmi 5 tray is only designed for Nano-SIM. If you insert a Micro-SIM without trimming, it won't go through, and the contacts won't touch the connector.
• 🚫 Mixed slots. 1 supportive 4G, Slot 2 — only 3G/2G. If you need fast internet, put the main SIM in the first slot.
• 🚫 Dirty contacts. Dust or greasy marks on the SIM can cause communication problems.
• 🚫 Forced retraction of the tray. If the tray doesn't come out, don't try to pull it out with pliers, so you'll bend the metal frame.

Another common problem is that the smartphone doesn't see the SIM card after installation, and the reasons may be:

• The SIMKA is not activated (check with the operator).
• Damaged contacts in the slot (repair required).
• Incorrectly selected network type (go to Settings) → SIM-map → Network type and select 4G/3G/2G (motor-car)).
• Software failure (try resetting network settings to Settings → System → Resetting → Network settings reset).

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If Redmi 5 says “No Service” or “Emergency Calls Only” after installing the SIM, check if your carrier supports the 4G frequencies used in the phone (ranges 1/3/5/7/8/20).

How to trim Micro-SIM to Nano-SIM for Redmi 5

If you only have a Micro-SIM and you don't have an adapter, you can gently trim it to the size of a Nano-SIM.

• 📏 Nano-SIM line or template (can be printed from the Internet).
• ✂️ Sharp scissors or a stationery knife.
• 🧼 Alcohol wipes to clean the edges.
• 🔍 Lupa (optional, for accuracy).

Step 1: Put the Nano-SIM pattern on your Micro-SIM so that the contacts match.

Step 2: Carefully trim the plastic along the lines you want.

⚠️ Attention: Don't touch the metal contacts! If you damage them, the SIM will become inoperable. Better leave a small amount of plastic (0.5 mm) and then undermine with sandpaper.

Step 3: Make sure that the SIMKA is freely entering the Redmi 5 tray without gaps. If the edges are uneven, treat them with fine sandpaper.

Step 4: Put the cropped SIM in your phone and check the connection. If the smartphone can't see it, it's possible that the contacts were damaged when they were cropped, in which case you'll have to order a new Nano-SIM from the operator.

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If you're afraid to cut the SIM yourself, many communication salons do it for free in 5 minutes. Just ask to "strip the Micro-SIM to Nano-SIM for Xiaomi."

Frequent questions about SIM cards in Xiaomi Redmi 5

We’ve collected answers to Redmi 5’s most popular SIM card questions: If your problem isn’t here, check your network settings or contact Xiaomi for support.

Additional tips for working with SIM cards

To avoid communication problems in the future, follow these guidelines:

• 🔄 Regularly clean the contacts of the SIM card and tray from dust (once in a week). 3-6 Use a dry soft brush or compressed air.
• 📶 Update the software. In new versions. MIUI Frequently fix network definition bugs. Check for updates in Settings → The phone. → Updating the system.
• 🔋 Avoid overheating. If the phone gets too hot, it can cause the communication module to malfunction.
• 🛠️ Don't use unoriginal trays. Cheap Chinese counterparts may not be able to fix the SIM tightly, which will cause the network to be lost.

If you change SIM cards frequently (like when traveling), consider buying a multi-sim adapter, a small device that allows you to quickly switch between multiple SIMs without removing the tray. However, remember that such adapters can block the signal - test them before important trips.

We hope this guide helped you install the SIM card correctly in Xiaomi Redmi 5. If you have any questions about setting up a network or choosing a tariff, write in the comments - we will supplement the article with useful tips!