How to log into Fastboot on Xiaomi: 3 proven ways (2026)

Fastboot mode on Xiaomi smartphones is a special state of the device that allows you to interact with the bootloader through a computer. It is necessary for unlocking the bootloader, firmware custom recovery (for example, TWRP), installing informal firmware or restoring the system after failures. Without access to the Fastboot, many operations with Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO are simply impossible.

In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to log into Fastboot – from the classic method with buttons to commands via ADB. Particular attention will be paid to the nuances for different models (including Xiaomi 13/14, Redmi Note 12, POCO F5) and the typical errors that prevent users from successfully switching to mode. If you plan to unlock the bootloader or flash the device – this instruction will be your main assistant.

What is Fastboot and Why You Need It on Xiaomi

Fastboot (or bootloader mode) is a low-level smartphone state where the Android operating system does not boot, but basic commands are available to work with the device's memory. Unlike Recovery Mode, where you can reset settings or install an update, Fastboot provides more options:

• 🔓 Unlocking the bootloader (mandatory step before firmware custom software).
• 📥 Installation TWRP, OrangeFox or other custom recovery.
• 🔄 Firmware of official and unofficial images via fastboot flash.
• 🛠️ Recovery of bricks (devices that are not turned on due to firmware errors).
• 📡 Check the status of unlocking (fastboot oem device-info).

On Xiaomi smartphones, Fastboot mode is activated differently depending on the model and version of MIUI. For example, on older devices (Redmi 4X, Mi A1) it is enough to hold the power button + volume down, and on new ones (Xiaomi 13 Pro, POCO X5) you may need to connect to a PC or use ADB.

Without this mode, you can’t do most of the modifications, like if you want to install Global ROM on a Chinese version of your smartphone or roll back to an older firmware, Fastboot is your main tool.

Method 1: Log in to Fastboot via hardware buttons

The most versatile method, which works on 90% of Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO devices, is using a combination of physical buttons, which does not require a connection to a computer and is suitable even for “bricks” that do not respond to charging or do not turn on.

Instructions:

1. Turn off the smartphone (if it freezes – hold the power button for 10-15 seconds).
2. Press and hold the power button + Volume Down button.
3. Hold both buttons for 10-15 seconds until the Mi Bunny logo appears on the screen in Fastboot mode (Android robot with an open stomach or the inscription FASTBOOT).

If the screen is black or the Recovery menu appears, the button combination is not suitable for your model, in which case, try alternative options:

• 🔄 For Xiaomi. 11T/12/13: hold on + volume 10 Seconds, then release and immediately press the power. + volume.
• 🔄 For POCO F4/F5: First, press the volume up. + power, wait for vibrations, then release power, continuing to hold the volume up.
• 🔄 For the Redmi Note 10 Pro/11 Pro: Try to keep the power on + both volume buttons at the same time.

The screen shows the Mi Bunny logo with the inscription FASTBOOT|Device Manager defines the device as “Android Bootloader Interface"|Team team. `fastboot devices` The terminal displays the serial number.|The smartphone does not heat or vibrate constantly.-->

If you fail to log in to Fastboot after several attempts, check:

• 🔋 Battery charge (must be at least 30%).
• 🔌 Connect the charger – some models block the entrance to the Fastboot at low charge.
• 🛠️ Damaged buttons (if the smartphone fell or got wet).

⚠️ Note: On some models (Xiaomi Mi 10 Ultra, Black Shark 4) long-term button retention can cause resets. If the screen flashes or reset menu appears, release the buttons immediately!

Method 2: Log in to Fastboot via ADB (no buttons)

If the hardware buttons on your Xiaomi don’t work or you prefer the software method, you can go to Fastboot via the ADB command. This method requires USB debugging and connection to the computer, but it is guaranteed to work on all models.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn on the developer mode: Go to Settings → About Phone. Tap 7 times on the MIUI version until the notification "You became a developer" appears.
2. Activate Debugging via USB: Return to Settings → Additional → Developer. Turn on the USB Debugging Switch and confirm the resolution.

Connect your smartphone to your PC through USB-cable (preferably original).

command-line

terminal

ADB

adb devices

If the device is determined (the serial number will appear), enter the transition command to Fastboot:

adb reboot bootloader

After completing the command, the smartphone will automatically restart to Fastboot mode. If a request for debugging permission appears, be sure to confirm it on the device screen.

⚠️ Note: If the adb reboot bootloader is rebooted to normal mode after you enter the command, this may mean that the device has modified protection (for example, Anti-Rollback.

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If ADB Does not recognize the device, try to change USB-Often the problem lies in a faulty cable, especially if it is not original.

Method 3: Sign in to Fastboot via Mi Flash Tool (for "bricks")

If your Xiaomi doesn’t turn on at all (black screen, no button response), but your computer identifies it as Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008, then the device is in EDL (Emergency Download Mode) mode.

Instructions:

1. Download and install the Mi Flash Tool (Windows version).
2. Connect the switched off smartphone to the PC (without pressing buttons!).
3. Run the Mi Flash Tool and press the Refresh button. if the device is determined as COM-Port – Move to the next step.
4. In the command line (in the folder from fastboot) type: fastboot oem edl If the command does not work, try: fastboot oem reboot-edl
5. After rebooting in Fastboot, you can start firmware.

This method works even for devices with damaged firmware or locked bootloader, but requires the original Qualcomm cable and drivers. If the Mi Flash Tool can't see the device, check:

• 🔌 Backup connection USB-port (the front panels often lack power).
• 🛠️ Have Qualcomm QDLoader drivers been installed (you can download via XDA Developers).
• 🔄 Try another cable (preferably from the original charger).

Unlock the bootloader before working in Fastboot

On all modern Xiaomi smartphones, the bootloader is locked by default, which means that even if you successfully logged in to Fastboot, many commands (like fastboot flash) will not be available without first unlocking.

To unlock the loader:

1. Go to the official Mi Unlock website and download the Mi Unlock Tool utility.
2. Sign in to your Mi-account (it should be linked to the device!).
3. Connect your smartphone in Fastboot mode to your PC.
4. Launch the Mi Unlock Tool and follow the instructions. Usually, it takes 72–168 hours (3–7 days) to unlock your account.

After unlocking, you will be able to:

• 📥 Install custom recovery (TWRP, OrangeFox).
• 🔄 Unofficial firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience).
• 🔧 Modify system partitions (e.g., delete Bloatware).

⚠️ Attention: Unlocking the bootloader resets all data on the device (including photos, contacts and apps) and some features (such as Mi Pay or Widevine) L1 for Netflix HD) On models with anti-Rollback (e.g. Xiaomi) 12S) rollback on the old firmware after unlocking will lead to a "brick".

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Unlocking the bootloader is a must before any modification of the system. Without it, the Fastboot will only allow you to sew official images through the Mi Flash Tool.

Typical Fastboot Login Errors and Their Solutions

Even experienced users sometimes have problems when trying to upgrade to Fastboot, and here are the most common mistakes and ways to fix them:

If none of these methods help, check:

• 🔌 USB-Port to PC: Try the port USB 2.0 (they are more stable than they are) USB 3.0).
• 🛠️ Drivers: Remove old drivers through Device Manager and install new ones.
• 📱 Device status: If the smartphone fell or got wet, the problem may be in the hardware (for example, a broken button plume).

On some models (Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra, Redmi K50 Gaming) the entrance to the Fastboot is blocked if the device was bought in China and did not pass the procedure of global unlocking.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Fastboot on Xiaomi