Modern Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones are set to automatically switch between 2G, 3G and 4G communication standards by default to ensure maximum coverage. However, in many regions of Russia and the CIS, the 3G network is often overloaded or unstable, which causes the gadget to constantly “jump” between modes, causing connection breaks and increased energy consumption. Forced installation of only 4G mode allows you to lock the device on a more stable and faster LTE network, ignoring interference from outdated towers.
This procedure is especially relevant for users who actively use navigators, video calls or streaming services on the move. The standard Android settings panel does not always provide direct access to selecting a particular type of network, hiding these options in deep system menus. In this article, we will discuss all the safe ways to activate the Only LTE mod, including the use of secret codes, engineering menus and third-party utilities, and explain why this can be critical to your autonomy.
Why you should switch to 4G mode only
The main reason for switching to forced LTE is the architecture of modern networks, where when a smartphone is in the zone of uncertain 4G reception, it tries to switch to 3G, but often this process takes too long or leads to a complete disconnection, and as a result, you can see a situation where the network indicator goes down and the Internet stops working for a few seconds or even minutes, fixing on one frequency eliminates these delays.
Also, the constant search for the best network is one of the main consumers of battery power. The communication module works in a strengthened mode, scanning the air. Forced on 4G can extend the life of a smartphone to 15-20% in poor coverage, this is especially important for models with not the most capacious battery or for those who are often on trips.
It’s also worth considering that voice communication in 4G networks is done using VoLTE (Voice over LTE) technology. If your carrier supports this feature and it is activated in the tariff, then voice quality will be much higher than in 3G, and transitions between modes during conversation will disappear. However, in remote areas where there is no 4G at all, a phone without the ability to switch to 2G/3G can become a “brick” in terms of calls.
Using secret codes to select a network type
The fastest and safest way to change the priority of networks on Xiaomi is to use embedded system codes. These commands open a hidden test menu available at the MIUI firmware level. You don't need superuser rights (Root) or a computer connection. Just open the standard Phone application and type in the character combination.
Enter the code ##4636##. If the Testing menu opens, go to Phone Information. Here you will see the drop-down list "Configure preferred network type." The default value is like "5G/4G/3G/2G (auto)". Click on it and select the option that says Only LTE or LTE Only.
What if the code doesn't work?
Once you select the mode, the network may disappear for a short time and reappear with the marking 4G or LTE. Note that the settings apply instantly and do not require rebooting. If you want to return everything as it was, just select the mode "Auto" or "5G/4G/3G/2G" in the list.
Configure through the Engineering Menu (Engineer Mode)
If the standard code didn't work or you want to access the more subtle settings of the radio module, you can use a full-fledged engineering menu. To activate it on modern Xiaomi smartphones, you often need to install a special activator application, since the menu shortcut is hidden. However, there is a universal method through the developer settings.
First, activate Developer Mode. Go to Settings → About Phone and quickly click 7 times on MIUI Version. Then go back to the main settings menu, go to Advanced Settings → Developers. Find Network Selection or Network Preferred Type (location may vary depending on the Android version).
- 📱 Make sure that SIM-The card is active and selected for data transmission by default.
- 🔍 In the engineering menu, look for the Telephony or Phone tab.
- ⚙️ Find the Set Preferred Network Type option and select LTE Only.
- 💾 Some changes require pressing the "Apply" or "Set" button to take effect.
It is important to understand that the engineering menu is a powerful tool, changing parameters that you are not sure about (for example, transmitter power or frequency ranges) can lead to unstable operation of the communication module, and returning to the factory network settings in this case is done by selecting the Reset or re-selecting the Auto mode.
☑️ Check before changing network settings
Application of third-party applications for fixing LTE
In cases where system methods are blocked by the manufacturer (which is often found in newer versions of HyperOS or MIUI 14), specialized applications from Google Play come to the rescue. They use system APIs to force mode switching, emulating user actions in hidden menus.
One of the most popular and proven solutions is Force LTE Only (4G/5G), which does not require superuser rights and works on most devices. Once installed, launch the app, select the method "Method 2: Android 11+" (or corresponding to your version), and click "Open Old Phone Info".
In the window that opens, find the drop-down list and set the value. LTE The interface of the application may vary depending on the model, but the logic remains the same: find the current network profile and replace it with a forced one. 4G/LTE.
| Annex | I need a Root. | Compatibility | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Force LTE Only | No. | Android 10-14 | Simple interface, works without advertising |
| NetMonster | No. | All versions. | Shows the frequency and number of the tower |
| 4G Switcher | No. | Android 9+ | Minimalist widget for the desktop |
| Signal Strength | No. | All versions. | Detailed statistics and signal graphs |
Using third-party software has one caveat: after a full reboot of the smartphone, the settings can be reset to automatic ones, in which case the application will have to be restarted, and some programs offer to create a widget on the desktop for quick switching with a single touch.
Solving the problems with the missing 4G and VoLTE
Even after Only LTE is enabled, users can experience a situation where the network goes down or the phone says "No service." This often happens if you're in an area where 4G coverage is physically absent. Unlike automatic mode, the phone won't switch to 3G, but just loses the signal.
Another common problem is that you can't make incoming calls. 4G Voice is transmitted via Internet Protocol (VoLTE) If your carrier does not support this technology or it is not enabled in the smartphone settings, calls will not pass. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Yours. SIM → Use VoLTE and activate the switch.
⚠️ Attention: Compulsory regime 4G This may lead to something you cannot accept. SMS-Bank codes or emergency calls (112) in uncovered locations LTE, but 2G. Be careful when using this mode when traveling to remote areas.
If the Internet is working, you may have caught up in an overloaded frequency. In the engineering menu (Band Selection section), you can try to turn off specific frequency bands (for example, Band 3 or Band 7), leaving only those that are better at catching in your location.
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To check the signal quality, use the code ##4636## and see the RSSI parameter. A value closer to -60 dBm means a great signal, and a value lower than -110 dBm is very poor, in which even 4G will run slowly.
The effect of Only LTE on battery and heating
There's a myth that 4G is a constant heater that puts the battery on the phone, and that's only partly true, and that's when you're actively searching for the network, and if you've got a phone on a stable 4G tower with a good signal, the communication module is running normally, and you don't see any additional power consumption.
The problems begin when the 4G signal is weak (1-2 fission), in which case the module increases the transmitter power to hold the connection, which leads to heating of the case and rapid discharge, which is why before turning on LTE Only, you should make sure that your location is confident reception.
For users who move frequently between coverage areas, automation is the best solution. You can configure a script in the Macros app (built into MIUI) so that when you connect to home Wi-Fi, the network mode is reset to automatic, and when you turn off, it returns to 4G.
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Fixing a 4G network is only useful with a stable signal, and in the conditions of the “border” of coverage, it is better to leave automatic mode so that the phone can switch to 3G to maintain communication.