Xiaomi Notebook Pro laptops have gained popularity due to a combination of performance, stylish design and affordable price. However, when setting up hardware, installing alternative OSes or diagnosing faults, users often need access to a low-level menu — BIOS/UEFI. Unlike traditional PCs, where the input is made by standard keys, Xiaomi devices have their own characteristics.
This article will help you understand how to properly log into the BIOS on the Xiaomi Notebook Pro (including the Pro X, Pro 15, Pro 14 and other versions), which keys to use, and what to do if the system ignores the pressing. We will also look at the differences between the Legacy BIOS and UEFI, relevant for modern laptops, and warn against typical errors that can lead to locking the device.
Why you may need to sign in to the BIOS on Xiaomi Notebook Pro
Access to BIOS not only is it necessary IT-Professionals, but also regular users in several key scenarios:
- 🔄 Change the boot device – for example, to install Windows or Linux from a flash drive when the system ignores the bootable media.
- ⚙️ Configuring hardware parameters: on / off Secure Boot, changing the mode of operation SATA (AHCI/RAID), Virtualization Technology (VT-x) for virtual machines.
- 🔧 Equipment diagnostics: temperature, voltage check, RAM or hard disk testing with built-in utilities.
- 🔒 Password reset BIOS (if it was installed earlier) or unlock the device after unsuccessful firmware experiments.
On Xiaomi laptops, entering the BIOS is complicated by two factors: fast Windows boot (Fast Boot feature) and the lack of a visible hotkey hint on the POST screen. This often confuses users who are used to classic DEL or F2 on desktop PCs.
Hot keys for entering the BIOS on Xiaomi Notebook Pro
Depending on the model and year of release of the Xiaomi laptop, different key combinations are used. Below is a table with current data for popular lines:
| Laptop model | Hot key | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Notebook Pro 15/14 (2021–2023) | F2 | Press immediately after turning on, until the Mi logo appears. Some firmwares require holding Fn + F2. |
| Xiaomi Notebook Pro X 15/14 (2022–2026) | DEL or F2 | Depends on the BIOS version. Only DEL can work on new revisions. |
| Xiaomi Mi Notebook Air (12.5" and 13.3) | F2 + Fn | It is necessary to hold the Fn due to the specifics of the keyboard. |
| Xiaomi RedmiBook Pro 14/15 | DEL | Sometimes you need to press 2-3 times in a row due to fast loading. |
Important! On Xiaomi laptops with UEFI (and these are all models after 2019), the POST screen (Initial Diagnostics) displays less than a second. If you don't have time to press the key, try:
- 🔌 Disable Fast Boot in Windows: Control Panel → Power supply → Action of power buttons → Change the inaccessible parameters → Remove the tick from "Enable fast start".
- ⏻ Turn off the laptop completely (not restart!), then turn on and immediately press the key.
- 🔄 Use emergency reboot: Hold the power button for 10-15 seconds for a full reset.
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If the key doesn’t work, try connecting. USB-Keyboard. On some Xiaomi models, the built-in keyboard may not have time to initialize to enter the keyboard. BIOS.
Step-by-step: how to go to the BIOS on Xiaomi Notebook Pro
Follow this algorithm to ensure you get into the BIOS/UEFI menu:
- Turn off your laptop completely (don’t use a reboot!).
- Disable all peripheral devices (mouse, external drives, USB-hubs, except for the keyboard (if you use an external one).
- Press and hold the input key (F2, DEL, or a combination of both with Fn).
- Turn on your laptop without releasing the key before the BIOS menu appears.
Disable Fast Boot in Windows|
Close all programs and turn off the laptop |
Disconnect the periphery (except the keyboard)|
Prepare the entry key (F2/DEL)|
Enable a laptop with key retention-->
If the menu doesn't appear:
⚠️ Note: Some Xiaomi Notebook Pro firmwares have entry into BIOS In this case, you must first disable Secure Boot via Windows (in the recovery settings) or use an emergency reset (see section below).
A critical nuance for models 2023: if the laptop is equipped with a T2 Security Chip (analogue of Apple T2), to log into the BIOS may need to disable BitLocker in Windows or enter a password from the chip at the first sign-in.
What to do if you can’t get into the BIOS
If standard methods don’t work, try the following solutions:
- 🔄 Reset via Windows: Open Options → Update and security → Restore. Under Special Download Options, click Reboot Now. After restart, select Diagnostics → Additional parameters → Parameters of embedded software UEFI.
Hardware discharge
- Turn off the laptop.
- Open the back cover and remove the battery (on models with removable battery).
- Hold the power button for 30 seconds to discharge the capacitors.
- Connect the power and try to log into the BIOS in the standard way.
- 💻 Update BIOS: If the firmware version is outdated, some keys may not work. Download the current firmware from the official Xiaomi website.
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On Xiaomi laptops with UEFI, you need to disable Secure Boot and enable CSM to install Linux (if you need Legacy boot support).
Dangerous BIOS settings: what not to change without the need
Incorrect changes to the BIOS can lead to unstable operation or even locking the laptop. Avoid modifying the following parameters without clearly understanding the consequences:
- 🔐 Secure Boot Keys – Changing security keys can make your system unbootable.
- ⚙️ SATA Mode - Switching between AHCI and RAID Without reinstalling Windows will lead to BSOD.
- ⚡ CPU Voltage/TDP — improper undervoltage or overclocking may cause processor overheating or failure.
- 🔄 Boot Order Lock – Locking the boot order will require a reset BIOS jumper.