How to insert a SIM card in Xiaomi Redmi 4X: instructions with photos and nuances

Xiaomi Redmi 4X

all ways to install a SIM card

Redmi 4X

It supports two nano-SIM cards (or one SIM + microSD), but many people don't know that the tray is removable, not retractable. This means that it will require a special key (or clip) to extract the slot, and the SIM itself is fixed without latches. If you encounter this type of design for the first time, our step-by-step photo and video instructions will help avoid errors.

We will also tell you what to do if the smartphone does not see the SIM card after installation, how to properly trim the SIM to the nano format, and why sometimes Redmi 4X refuses to work with two operators at the same time.

1. Which one? SIM-The cards are supported by Xiaomi Redmi 4X?

Xiaomi Redmi 4X is equipped with a hybrid slot that allows you to use:

  • πŸ“± Two nano-SIM cards (format) 4FF, 12.3Γ—8.8 mm)
  • πŸ“± One nano-SIM. + microSD (up to 256 GB)

This means that you can't use two SIM cards and a memory card at the same time, so you have to choose between dual communication or expansion.

Important: the model does not support micro-SIM (3FF) or standard SIM (2FF) without cropping. If you have an old-style SIM, it will have to be trimmed or replaced in the operator's cabin. You can do it yourself with a special stapler, but we recommend that you contact the operator - it is free and safe.

πŸ“Š What kind of guy. SIM-You have cards now?
Standard (2FF)
Micro-SIM (3FF)
Nano-SIM (4FF)
eSIM

Also note that Redmi 4X works on the following networks:

  • ⚑ 2G (GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz)
  • ⚑ 3G (WCDMA 850/900/1900/2100 MHz)
  • ⚑ 4G LTE (Band 1/3/5/7/8/38/40)

If your carrier uses other frequencies (e.g. LTE Band 20 in Europe), the smartphone may not catch 4G or only run in 3G mode.

2.What will you need to install a SIM card?

Before you start, prepare:

Nano-SIM card (or cropped micro-SIM)

Key to extract the tray (goes complete with the phone)

Paperclip or thin needle (if the key is lost)

Tweezers (for careful extraction of the SIM)

Soft fabric (so as not to scratch the body)-->

If you don't have a Xiaomi brand key, you'll need an unbended clip or needle, and the key is to keep the tool thin and bent, or you risk damaging the tray's locking mechanism.

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Warning: Do not use a knife, scissors or other sharp objects! This can cause the latch of the tray to break or scratch the case. If the key is stuck, do not force, you better contact the service center.

Also check that the SIM card is activated from the operator, and if you have just purchased a new SIM, you may need to register it through the company’s website or office (for example, for Tele2 or Yota).

3. Step-by-step instructions: how to insert a SIM in Xiaomi 4X

Now, to the process itself, follow the instructions in strict order to avoid errors.

  1. Turn off your smartphone. It's a must! SIM card installation when your phone is on can cause contacts to be damaged or the communication module to malfunction.
  2. Find a slot for SIM-Redmi. 4X It's on the left end of the body (if you look at the screen), and you'll see a small hole next to the volume buttons.
  3. Remove the tray. Put the key (or paper clip) into the hole and press until you click. The tray should extend 1-2 mm, after which it can be carefully pulled out with your fingers.
  4. Set up a SIM card. Put the nano-SIM in the tray with the contacts down, as shown in the diagram (usually there is a hint engraved). If you use two SIMs, the second one is installed in the bottom slot.
  5. Put the tray back in. Put the tray right into the smartphone until you hear the click. Don't put too much effort into it.

If the tray is not inserted:

  • πŸ” Check if the SIM card is installed correctly (not inverted).
  • πŸ” Make sure there is no dust or foreign objects in the slot.
  • πŸ” Try to sway the tray slightly left-right when installing.

πŸ’‘

If a SIM card is tightly fitting into the tray, don't press it - you're probably wrong about the size. Nano-SIM should enter effortlessly, and micro-SIM should need to be trimmed.

Possible problems and solutions

Even if you did everything right, sometimes Redmi 4X refuses to see the SIM card.

Problem.Possible causeDecision
Phone doesn't see SIM cardInactivated SIM or incorrect installationCheck the activation from the operator, reinstall the SIM
No network or "Emergency Calls Only"Inappropriate APN settings or operator issuesUpdate the settings APN In Settings β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks
4G is not workingNo support for your operator’s LTE frequenciesCheck frequency compatibility or switch to 3G in settings
The tray is not fixed.Latch damaged or debris hitClean the slot with a dry brush or contact the service

If after installing the SIM card, the smartphone stopped turning on or got stuck on the MI logo, this may indicate:

  • πŸ› οΈ Short circuit (if the sim is installed incorrectly).
  • πŸ› οΈ Damage to slot contacts.

In this case, do not try to reboot the phone repeatedly - it is better to immediately contact the service center.

What to do if the tray is stuck inside?
If the tray is not pushed after pressing the key, try: 1. Light a flashlight into the slot - perhaps the SIM card has shifted and blocks the mechanism. 2. Carefully tamper with a thin plastic card (not metal!). 3. If nothing helps - slightly tap on the case near the slot (sometimes vibration helps). If the tray broke, it can be replaced in the service (cost ~ 300-500 rubles).

5. How to trim a sim card for nano-SIM for Xiaomi 4X?

If you have a micro-SIM or a standard SIM, you can cut it to nano-SIM yourself.

  • πŸ“ Template for pruning (can be printed from the Internet).
  • βœ‚οΈ Sharp scissors or a stationery knife.
  • 🧴 Fill or sandpaper (for grinding edges).

Step-by-step:

  1. Overlay the template on the SIM card and circle the marker.
  2. Carefully trim the excess parts, leaving 1-2 mm of stock.
  3. Treat the edges with sandpaper so that they become smooth.
  4. Check that the contacts are not damaged and install the SIM in the phone.

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Note: If you make a mistake in trimming and damage the chip, the SIM card will have to be replaced. Operators usually do this for free when presenting the passport, but it may take time to activate the new number.

The alternative is to use a nano-SIM adapter, which is a plastic frame that allows you to insert nano-SIM into a micro-SIM slot, but in Redmi 4X, this adapter will not work, since the tray is designed strictly for nano-format.

6. Network setup after SIM card installation

After successfully installing the SIM card, you may need to adjust the network to keep the network running smoothly.

1. Check the network mode:

Go to Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ [choose SIM] β†’ Network type and install:

  • πŸ“Ά 4G (preferably for maximum speed.
  • πŸ“Ά 3G β€” if 4G does not catch or quickly deplete the battery.
  • πŸ“Ά 2G β€” Call only (savings charge).

2. Update the APN settings:

If the internet isn't working, you may need to manually set up an APN.

  1. Go to Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Access points (APN).
  2. Click Add APN and enter your operator’s options (they can be found on the official website).
  3. Save the settings and restart the phone.

3. Activate the operator's services:

Some tariffs require activation through USSD-For example, teams:

  • πŸ“ž For MTS: dial *111*1#.
  • πŸ“ž For Beeline: *102#.
  • πŸ“ž For MegaFon: *105*00#.

πŸ’‘

If the phone still doesn't pick up the signal after setting up the network, try rebooting it in flight mode (turn on and off mode in 30 seconds), which often helps to reset the errors of the communication module.

7. Frequent questions about SIM cards in Xiaomi Redmi 4X

Can I use two SIM cards and a memory card at the same time?
No, Redmi 4X has a hybrid slot that allows you to choose only one option: either two SIM cards or one SIM card + microSD.
Why does my phone only see one SIM card when I have two?
Possible causes: One of the SIM cards is inactivated or locked. The slot for the second SIM is contaminated (try cleaning it with a dry brush). β†’ SIM-Also make sure that both SIM cards support the same frequencies, for example, if one SIM only works in the same SIM. 2G, And the second one is in 4G, There may be conflicts.
How do I know which SIM card is the main one?
At Redmi. 4X The main SIM card is used for calls and SMS To change priority: Go to Settings β†’ SIM-Maps and mobile networks. Select the Main SIM-You can also set up a map and specify the slot you want, and you can also set up a SIM that you want to use for mobile Internet.
What if after installing the SIM card, the phone stopped charging?
It's not a SIM card thing, it's probably a coincidence: πŸ”Œ Cable and power adapter (try another charger). πŸ”Œ Charging connector for the presence of garbage. πŸ”Œ If the problem persists, it may be that the power controller is damaged (diagnosis required).
Can I use eSIM in Xiaomi Redmi 4X?
No, the Redmi 4X does not support eSIM. This technology came later (starting with the Xiaomi 12 and later), and a physical nano-SIM is required to work in this model.