Owners of modern Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO smartphones often face a situation where the device automatically switches to a fifth-generation network, even if coverage in a given area is unstable, which can lead to increased battery consumption and periodic connection breaks. Many users prefer to forcely limit the modem to 4G LTE standard to ensure more stable and predictable communication.
The process of deactivating high-speed mode does not require root rights or complex flashing of the device. All the necessary settings are hidden in the standard interface of the operating system MIUI or HyperOS. It is enough to know exactly where to look for the desired switch, since in the latest shell updates manufacturers have changed the location of some menu items.
In this article, we will take a look at all the known methods of switching network modes, from standard settings to using an engineering menu, you will learn why a phone can constantly search for 5G and how this affects autonomy, and will also explore the nuances for different versions of firmware, including Chinese and global builds.
Why to turn off 5G on Xiaomi smartphones
The main reason users are looking for a way to turn off 5G on Xiaomi is because of the power consumption: Fifth-generation communication modules consume significantly more energy when searching for a signal and transmitting data compared to previous generations. If you are in the zone of insecure reception, the smartphone begins to constantly scan the air, which leads to a rapid discharge of the battery.
In addition, in many regions, 5G coverage is still in the development stage.The phone can constantly "jump" between 4G and 5G, which causes micro-communication interruptions during conversations or games.Forced switching to LTE allows for more stable ping and no delays in messengers.
When working on fifth-generation networks, the modem processor operates at higher frequencies, which can lead to noticeable heating of the top of the smartphone. For everyday tasks such as social networks and navigation, 4G speeds are quite enough.
Standard Method through Settings SIM-map
The easiest and safest way to change the type of network is through the basic settings menu, which works on most current models, including the Xiaomi 13, Redmi Note 12 and older devices, and you don’t need to install third-party software.
To start, open the Settings app and find the section SIM-If you have a dual-symbol smartphone, select the card that connects to the Internet. Then click on "Network Type" or "Preferred Network Type".
In the list that opens, select Preferably 4G (LTE) option, the system immediately restarts the communication module, and the 5G icon in the status bar disappears, and the phone will now ignore the fifth-generation towers, even if they are in close proximity.
☑️ Checking network settings
Sometimes, after updating the firmware, the selection point may temporarily disappear or disappear, in which case, try to restart the device. If the problem persists, your carrier may have blocked the selection through the standard menu, but this is extremely rare.
Using an engineering menu to select a network
If the standard method fails or the desired item is hidden by the operator, you can use the engineering menu. This is a hidden part of the system, designed for testing equipment. Beware: changing unknown parameters here can lead to malfunctioning of the phone.
To enter the test menu, open the Phone app and dial ##4636##. The Testing menu should appear on the screen. Select Phone Information.
In the list of options, find the drop-down menu "Set Preferred Network Type" (Set Preferred Network Type). You need to select a value that does not mention 5G or NR. The optimal choice is LTE Only or LTE/TD-SCDMA/CDMA EvDo/GSM/WCDMA.
⚠️ Attention: Selection of regime LTE Only can cause you to stop receiving incoming calls if your carrier uses VoLTE technology, in which case voice calls will not be possible until you return to mixed mode.
Once you select the setting, the changes are applied instantly. You can close the menu. If after a while the settings are reset, try repeating the procedure or use special applications to fix the network settings.
Settings through Activity Launcher
In newer versions of the HyperOS shell, some hidden settings have been moved or disguised, and you can access them using the Activity Launcher system application, which is often already built into the system or available through the app store.
Search for the word "Activity" or "Run." In the app, enter the mobile network request or preferred type in the search bar, and the system will list hidden activities associated with the network.
Find a point that leads directly to the type of network you choose, bypassing the unnecessary menus, often called Mobile Network Settings, and clicking on this point will open a window where you can rigidly lock in the 4G standard.
Why does network selection disappear after a reboot?
This method is especially useful if the menu item has been hidden after a security update, and allows you to get to the deep interface settings that users normally don't have.
Comparison of modem modes
Understanding the difference between modes of operation helps you choose the best option for your situation. Below is a table comparing the main characteristics of different communication standards in the context of use on Xiaomi devices.
| Parameter | 5G (NR) | 3G (WCDMA) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum speed | High (up to 1 Gbps) | Medium (up to 100 Mbps) | Low (up to 42 Mbps) |
| Energy consumption | High. | Optimal. | Low. |
| Stability in the room | Low (poorly breaks walls) | Tall. | Medium |
| Ping in games | Minimum (with perfect signal) | Stable. | High-pitched |
As you can see from the table, for most use cases, 4G is the middle ground. 5G only makes sense when you download large amounts of data near a tower. In densely built cities, 4G is often more reliable.
3G mode today makes sense to include only in emergency situations, when you need to maximize the life of the battery, and the Internet is only needed for the transmission of text messages or GPS coordinates.
The Impact of Regional Settings and Firmware
It is important to consider that the behavior of the smartphone depends on the firmware version. Global versions (Global ROM) usually have stricter restrictions and a standard menu layout that meets the requirements of European operators.
Chinese versions of firmware (China ROM) or devices flashed from China to Global may have an extended network selection menu, often with the option of manual frequency input or a more detailed selection of 5G bands (SA/NSA).
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If you've refashioned your phone from the Chinese version to the global version, reset your network settings to the factory version, which will help you avoid conflicts with the operator's configuration files.
Some carriers use specific configuration files (APNs) that can force 5G. Check the settings of APN access points. If there is an APN protocol option, make sure that IPv4/IPv6 is selected, not specific protocols that require 5G.
Problems and solutions
After 5G is turned off, users may face a number of nuances, such as the Internet speed may drop if your area has overloaded 4G towers and 5G would be more stable, but most often there is an improvement in connection stability.
If the phone stopped seeing the network after changes in the engineering menu, simply select LTE/WCDMA/GSM mode. This will return the ability to work on second and third generation networks, which is guaranteed to provide communication.
⚠️ Warning: Don't choose the mode "2G "Only" or "GSM Only in today's environment. Many operators have already shut down networks. 2G, And you risk being left out of touch altogether.
In case nothing works, reset your network settings. Go to Settings → Connection and Sharing → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile networks and Bluetooth. This will return all configurations to factory values, then you can reselect 4G.
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Network settings reset does not delete your personal data, contacts or apps; it only affects connection settings, Wi-Fi passwords and Bluetooth pairs.