How to log into the BIOS on Xiaomi laptop: all the ways and secrets

Why is BIOS login on Xiaomi different than other laptops?

Xiaomi laptops are not just copies of popular brands, but devices with unique firmware architectures. Unlike ASUS or Lenovo, where it is often enough to hold F2 or Del to enter the BIOS, it is more difficult here. Xiaomi uses Fast Boot UEFI, which blocks access to traditional hotkeys 90% of the time, this is done to speed up the system’s launch, but creates problems when you need to change hardware settings, update firmware or reinstall Windows.

Another feature is that on some models (such as the Mi Notebook Pro X 15), the BIOS is only logged in via a special recovery menu, not directly, due to Xiaomi's security policy, which restricts access to low-level settings to prevent accidental changes. If you tried to log into the BIOS in standard ways and nothing worked out, don't be surprised: it's not a breakdown, it's a design feature.

In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to log into the BIOS for Xiaomi laptops (including RedmiBook, Mi Notebook Air, Pro and other series), as well as how to avoid typical errors, starting with the most reliable method – through the Windows boot menu.

Method 1: Sign in through Windows boot settings (most reliable)

This method works on all Xiaomi models regardless of the BIOS version and the OS installed. Its main advantage is that it does not require guessing the “hot keys” or disabling Fast Boot in the settings.

Instructions:

1. Open Windows Settings (click Win + I).
2. Go to the Update and Security section → Recovery.
3. In the Special Download Options block, click Reboot Now.
4. After the reboot, select: Diagnostics → Additional settings → UEFI embedded software settings.
5. Click Reboot – the laptop will automatically log into the BIOS.

If this item is not in the menu, then your laptop has disabled support for UEFI in Windows settings.

Enable Secure Boot in Windows Settings|Update Windows to the latest version|Check if Windows is installed in mode UEFI (Not Legacy)|Reset the settings. BIOS battery (for advanced users)-->

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If you have Linux, use the command.

sudo systemctl reboot --firmware-setup

Method 2: Hot keys for different Xiaomi models

Despite the peculiarities of Xiaomi, some models support keyboard entry, here is the current list of combinations (tested on firmware 2023-2026):

Important: on newer models (e.g. RedmiBook Pro 15 2026), the keys may fail due to a manufacturer lock, in which case use Method 1 or Method 4 (see below).

Method 3: Disable Fast Boot in Windows (if the keys don't work)

Fast Boot is a technology that speeds up Windows boots, but blocks access to the BIOS through the keyboard.

1. Open the control panel. → Power supply.
2. Press the Power button action.
3. Uncheck the box from Enable Quick Start.
4. Save the changes and restart the laptop.

Then try using the keys from Method 2 again. If that doesn’t work, then on your Xiaomi model, the BIOS is blocked at the firmware level – move on to the next method.

Method 4: Emergency login via resetting BIOS settings (for advanced)

If none of the previous methods worked, the radical way is to reset the BIOS hardware, which will bring all the settings back to the factory, but will allow you to access the menu.

1. Turn off the laptop and disconnect the charger.
2. Turn over your laptop and find a service cover (usually marked with a screw with the symbol "i" or "BIOS").
3. Carefully remove the cover (a plastic shoulder blade may be required).
4. Under the lid, you'll see a battery. CMOS (round, as on PC motherboards) or jumper reset (3 sign-on CLR_CMOS).
5. If you have a jumper, move it to the Clear position for 10 seconds, then return it back. If you have a battery, remove it for 15 to 20 seconds.
6. Put your laptop together and turn it on, and you’ll automatically get into the BIOS.

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This method should only be used as a last resort, as it resets all BIOS settings, including boot priority, security settings, and overclocking (if it has been configured).

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If you're afraid of damaging your laptop, take a picture of the battery and jumper before you manipulate it, and this will help you avoid any build errors.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even following the instructions, users often face problems, and here are the most common ones:

• ❌ The laptop does not respond to the keys → Reason: Fast Boot enabled in Windows or BIOS. Solution: Disable it (see Method 3) or use the Recovery Menu (Method 1).
• ❌ The download menu appears, but there is no item "BIOS Setup" → Reason: Some Xiaomi models have entry BIOS Solution: Select Boot Manager, then press Esc or F2 repeatedly.
• ❌ After discharge BIOS laptop → Reason: Download settings are lost. Solution: go back to BIOS and in the Boot section, select the boot disk from Windows.
• ❌ The keyboard doesn't work on the menu. BIOS → Reason: Driver conflict USB. Solution: connect the external keyboard to USB 2.0 (not 3.0!).

What to do after entering the BIOS?

When you finally hit the BIOS, it's important not to make mistakes. Here are the basic settings you may need:

• 🔧 Change boot priority (to install Windows from a flash drive): go to the Boot section and move your flash drive to first place using the keys F5/F6.
• 🔒 Disable Secure Boot (if you want to install Linux or old Windows): Find this item in the Security section and set Disabled.
• ⚡ Setting up TPM (Windows 11 or BitLocker: Make sure you TPM 2.0 is included in the Advanced section → Trusted Computing.
• 🖥️ Overclocking or performance limitation: in the Advanced section → CPU Configuration can be changed to processor parameters (caution - this can lead to overheating!).

After making changes, be sure to save settings by pressing F10 or selecting Save & Exit. If you are not sure about your actions, it is better to take a picture of the current settings before the changes.

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Never update your BIOS through unverified sources! Firmware from unofficial sites may contain viruses or incompatible versions, which will lead to a “bricking” of your laptop.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions