Why is Xiaomi constantly switching between 3G and 4G?
You've noticed that your Xiaomi is catching fast 4G (LTE), then suddenly "rolls" to slow 3G - even with stable coverage? This is not a fluke, but the operation of the MIUI energy saving algorithm. By default, the system automatically selects the network based on the balance between speed and battery consumption. For example, in standby mode, the smartphone can switch to 3G to save charge, and when used actively, return to LTE.
The problem is, what is a smart switch often works inappropriately when streaming videos, online games or video calls, resulting in hangings, poor picture quality and connection breaks. Fortunately, Xiaomi has hidden settings that allow you to forcefully block 2G/3G and leave only LTE. But the methods differ depending on the version of MIUI and the model of the smartphone.
In this article, we will discuss all current methods of including “only” LTE» Xiaomi in 2026, including official and hidden options, you will learn how to do it through the standard menu, engineering settings and even the best of the best. USSD-Teams – with explanations for beginners and warnings about possible risks.
Method 1: Using standard MIUI settings (most secure)
Starting with MIUI 12, Xiaomi’s firmware has a hidden mode “Only” LTE», But it's closed by default, and to activate it, you have to do a simple manipulation of the device. SIM-card:
- Open the Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Choose yours. SIM-card (if there are several).
- Tap on the network type (or preferred network type).
- If the list does not include LTE Only, click on any other option (e.g. 4G/3G/2G), then go back and re-enter this menu.
If this trick doesn’t work, try an alternative path:
- 📱 Enter the code ##4636 in the phone application## → Choose Phone Information → In the Set Preferred Network Type section, set LTE only.
- ⚙️ On some models (Redmi Note 12, POCO X5) The option is hidden behind a long tap: hold your finger on the network type 5-7 seconds.
- 🔄 After changing, restart your smartphone - this will help fix the settings.
Make sure that SIM-card 4G (LTE)
Check 4G coverage in your area (for example, through the OpenSignal app)
Battery charge not less than 30%
Make a backup of settings (Settings) → The phone. → Backup)-->
⚠️ Attention: On some firmware (MIUI Global for Europe) Option Only LTE It may not be available due to operator limitations, and then you can proceed to the following methods.
Method 2: Engineering Menu (MTK and Qualcomm)
If you don't have a standard setting that allows you to choose only LTE, you'll have to use an engineering menu, and it works on MediaTek (MTK) and Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets, but the commands are different.
For smartphones on MediaTek (Redmi 9, POCO M3, etc.):
- Open the Phone app and enter the code: ##36446337##
- Go to BandMode (or Network Mode)
- Select LTE Only and save the settings.
For smartphones on Qualcomm (Redmi Note 11, Xiaomi 12, etc.):
- Enter the code ##4636##
- Select Phone Information → Set preferred network type.
- Install LTE only (if you don’t have an option, try LTE/TD-SCDMA/CDMA/EVDO/GSM/WCDMA and manually disable unnecessary bands).
| Chipset | Engineering menu code | Section for modifications |
|---|---|---|
| MediaTek (Helio G85, G95, etc.) | ##36446337## | BandMode → LTE Only |
| Qualcomm Snapdragon (4xx/6xx/7xx/8xx) | ##4636## | Set preferred network type → LTE only |
| Exynos (rarely found in Xiaomi) | *#0011# | Service Mode → Network Lock → LTE Band |
⚠️ Warning: Incorrect changes to the engineering menu can lead to network loss or even lockdown IMEI. Do not change other parameters unless you are sure of their purpose!
What to do if the engineering menu is not opened?
Method 3: USSD-forced-command LTE
If previous methods have not worked, try USSD-commands -- they're sent to the operator, and they can force the network to switch:
- 📡 MTS: ##4636## → Phone information → Set the type of network → LTE Only (after dialing, click "Call»).
- 📡 Beeline: *110*181# → In the answer, select the option “Only” 4G» (if available).
- 📡 MegaFon: *105*444# → In the menu, find “Network settings» → «Regime. 4G».
- 📡 Television2: *155*1# → request switching to LTE (You may need a support call).
These commands don’t always work, as operators may restrict manual switching. If the network hasn’t changed after you have entered the command, contact the operator’s support and request a forced LTE connection for your number.
Method 4: Applications for Forced LTE
If manual methods didn't work, you can use third-party applications, which are based on the principle of emulating the commands of the engineering menu, but with a more friendly interface.
- 📲 4G Only Mode (requires root) – allows you to block 2G/3G system-level.
- 📲 Network Signal Guru – Shows the current network type and allows you to manually select the network. LTE Only (works without root on some models).
- 📲 MTK Engineering Mode - for smartphones on MediaTek (analogue of engineering menu).
⚠️ Note: Applications requiring root rights may disrupt the communication module or cause firmware to fail, use them only if other methods have failed and you understand the risks.
💡
Before using network change apps, check user reviews of your Xiaomi model. For example, on the Redmi Note 10 Pro, the Network Signal Guru app often runs rootless, and on the POCO F3, the bootloader may need to be unlocked.
Problems and Solutions: What to Do When LTE Is Not Enabled?
Even after all the manipulations, the smartphone can stubbornly not hold only LTE.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| LTE only option is not on the menu | Restriction of operator or regional firmware | Try changing the region in the settings (Settings → Additional → Region → Select India or Europe) |
| After the reboot, the network is reset to 3G | Resetting mobile network settings | In the engineering menu, install LTE Only and disable Auto Network Search. |
| No network after changing settings | Incorrectly selected frequency range | Return the settings to factory settings (Settings → Reset → Network Reset) |
| LTE works, but the speed is low | Operator restricts speed in roaming | Check the balance and tariff plan, disable data roaming |
If none of these methods helped, the reason may lie in:
- 🛠️ Hardware malfunction (damaged communication module).
- 📵 Blocking IMEI (Check through *#06#).
- 📡 Problems with the operator (for example, technical work at the station).
💡
If after all the manipulations the smartphone still switches to 3G, I'm sure the problem is on the operator's side, so please contact support and see if your tariff supports the coercive regime. LTE.
How to check that the smartphone really works only in LTE?
To make sure your Xiaomi is no longer switching to 3G/2G, use these verification methods:
- Look at the network icon in the status bar: 📶 4G or LTE — it's okay. 📶 3G, H+, E – The smartphone still uses old networks.
Run a speed test (e.g., via Speedtest). In LTE, ping is usually below 50 ms and speeds are between 10 Mbps.
Install NetMonster or CellMapper – these show the current network type and frequency range.
If the network icon changes to 3G periodically, then the settings did not apply.
- Repeat the steps from Method 1 or Method 2.
- Check if the settings are reset after the reboot.
- Update your firmware to the latest version (Settings → About Phone → System Update).