How to pull out a slot for SIM-Xiaomi cards without a key: all working methods

Many people know this: we need to change it urgently. SIM-The card is in Xiaomi, and there is no standard metal key at hand, the SIM tray is locked, and the hardware stores are not open around the clock. What to do? Don't panic: there are at least 7 alternative ways to remove the tray without the original tool. The main thing is to act carefully so as not to damage the mechanism or body of the smartphone.

In this article, we’ll break down the safe practices for all of Xiaomi’s popular Redmi, and POCO models, from the budget Redmi Note 12 to Xiaomi’s flagship 14 Ultra. You’ll learn which tools are best, how to avoid common mistakes, and what to do if the tray is jammed, and a unique headphone-based life hack that few people know about.

Why not use a knife or scissors?

The first thought that comes to mind is to take a sharp object like a knife, a scissor, or even a screwdriver, which is the most common mistake that can lead to:

• 🔹 Scratches on the metal frame of the slot (especially relevant for smartphones with an aluminum body, for example, Xiaomi) 13T).
• 🔹 Damage to sealing gum (if you have a model with protection) IP53/IP68, Xiaomi-like 13 Pro).
• 🔹 Breakage of thread inside the mechanism - the tray will cease to be fixed or will fall out.
• 🔹 Short circuit, if the metal object touches the contacts on the board (risk is minimal, but there is a metallic object).

Even if you're lucky and the tray is amenable, the consequences can come later, like the Redmi Note 11 Pro+ with a damaged seal will lose water protection, and the POCO F5 with scratches on the frame will be harder to sell, so it's better to use soft and thin alternatives.

⚠️ Note: If your Xiaomi is under warranty, mechanical impact marks (such as a knife) can cause a service denial.

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The safest and most affordable tools that are available in every home:

How do you use it?

1. Untighten the paperclip so that a straight rod of ~ 3 cm length is obtained.
2. Insert it in the hole next to the slot to the point (should feel a slight click).
3. Press perpendicular to the body with force - the tray will be pushed out by 1-2 mm.
4. Put your nail or tweezers on it and pull it out completely.

Non-standard methods: from headphones to 3D-print-out

If you do not have anything on hand from the list above, you can use non-obvious solutions:

• 🎧 Wired headphones: Bite off one of the plugs (3.5 mm) and use a bare metal tip. Suitable for Xiaomi with a slot on the top edge (for example, Mi 11 Lite).
• 🖊️ Pen rod: Remove the writing element from the gel pen (e.g., Pilot) G2). The diameter is usually suitable for the hole.
• 🖨️ 3D-Printing the key: If you have access to the 3D-printer, you can print the ready-made key template (for example, for Redmi Note 9 Pro).
• 📎 Stationery button: Straighten it and use it as a mini hook. Suitable for models with a "recessed" hole (POCO F4 GT).

The most unexpected life hack: if you have Xiaomi wireless headphones (like the AirDots 3 Pro), you can use a charging case. Some models have a hidden metal tongue that can be gently tweaked and bent to extract the tray.

What if the tray is jammed?

Sometimes the tray doesn't move even after you've pressed the mechanism, and there are many reasons.

• 🔧 Dust/mud (relevant for smartphones, which are often carried in your pocket without a cover).
• 💧 Corrosion after contact with moisture (even if the model has protection) IP53).
• 🔄 Incorrect installation SIM (For example, a cropped nano-SIM is stuck inside).

Algorithm of action:

1. Try pressing the mechanism several times in a row - sometimes it helps to move the stuck tray.
2. If it does not help, blow into the hole (you can use a can of compressed air to clean the equipment).
3. In extreme cases, use a flat screwdriver, but wrap its tip with tape so as not to scratch the body.

⚠️ Warning: Don't try to pull the tray out with pliers or other tools that can warp it.In Xiaomi 12S Ultra and Redmi K50 Gaming trays are made of thin metal and easily bend.

1. Make sure the smartphone is off |false

2. Check if there are any visible damages to the slot |false

3. Try pressing the mechanism 3-5 times at 1 second interval |false

4. Use only soft tools (clip, toothpick)|false

5. If nothing helps, contact the service |false-->

Xiaomi models with non-standard slots

Some Xiaomi smartphones have unique tray designs that require a special approach:

• 📱 Xiaomi Mix Fold 2/3: The slot is on the bottom of the edge, and the extraction hole is covered with a decorative cap, and it needs to be carefully tucked with a nail or a plastic card.
• 🎮 Black Shark 4/5: The tray is fixed by a magnet. If it doesn't extend, attach another magnet to the case next to the slot.
• 📏 Xiaomi 12S Ultra: Double seal. After removing the tray, check if there's a rubber ring seal inside.
• 🔋 POCO M4 Pro 5G: The extraction hole is shifted closer to the edge, so the clip must be inserted at an angle. ~15°.

For foldable models (Mix Fold, Mix Flip), be especially careful: the tray mechanism is connected to the screen loop. Do not put excessive effort to avoid damaging the hinge.

💡

If you have a Xiaomi hybrid slot (SIM + microSD), press the tray from the side before extracting it – sometimes the memory card blocks the mechanism.

How to avoid problems in the future

To avoid any more difficulties in removing the tray:

• 🔑 Store the key in your smartphone case: Many Xiaomi cases (like Spigen or Ringke) have a special pocket for the key.
• 🧲 Use a magnetic holder: Stick a small magnet to a key and fasten it to a refrigerator or metal surface.
• 📱 Buy a Universal Key: AliExpress or Wildberries sells rubber-tipped keys that are suitable for all models.
• 🔄 Clean the slot periodically: Once every 3-6 months, blow the hole with compressed air to remove dust.

If you change often SIM-maps (for example, on trips), consider the option with electronic SIM (Many new Xiaomi models (Xiaomi 13 Lite, POCO F5) eSIM support, eliminating the need to physically remove the tray.

💡

For models with water protection (IP53/IP68), after removing the tray, check the integrity of the sealing gum. If it is torn or deformed, the smartphone will lose water resistance.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even when using the “right” tools, users often make mistakes that lead to breakdowns:

Another common problem is that the tray doesn't extend to the end, so don't try to pull it out with pliers.

1. Keep the tray gently left-right.
2. Blow in the gap between the tray and the body.
3. Use a plastic card to tamper with it from the side.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions