List of Xiaomi smartphones with support for MHL: how to connect to a TV

MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link) technology allows you to display images from your smartphone to the big screen through a standard microUSB or USB-C connector, turning the phone into a full-fledged media center. However, not all Xiaomi devices support this standard, the manufacturer is gradually abandoning it in favor of wireless solutions (Miracast) and alternative protocols (DisplayPort Alt Mode). In this article, we will discuss which Xiaomi models are officially certified for MHL, which adapters will fit, and why the new flagships lost this feature.

It's important to understand that MHL support is not just hardware-dependent, but also firmware-based. For example, some Qualcomm Snapdragon 800/801 devices are technically capable of working with MHL, but Xiaomi is blocking the feature at the software level. We tested compatibility with popular Samsung, LG and Sony TVs, and we also collected user feedback on the stability of the work.

What is MHL and why it is needed in Xiaomi smartphones

MHL is a microUSB/USB-C → HDMI video and audio transmission standard developed by a consortium of companies (including Samsung, Sony and Nokia) that allows:

• 🎮 Play mobile games on the big screen with minimal latency (important for shooters and racing).
• 📺 Watch movies and TV shows in resolution before 4K@30Hz (on older models - up to 1080p@60Hz).
• 💼 Present slides or documents without a laptop (support for Microsoft Office and Google Docs).
• 🔌 Charge the phone in parallel with the output of the image (function) MHL 2.0+).

The main advantage over Miracast (wireless alternative) is the lack of lags and dependence on the speed of Wi-Fi. MHL minuses:

• ⚡ Increased battery consumption (up to) 15-20% per hour with active use).
• 🔌 The need to buy a proprietary adapter (cheap Chinese counterparts often do not work).
• 📉 Limited support for new smartphones (since 2018, Xiaomi has stopped certifying devices under the new model) MHL).

⚠️ Note: If your Xiaomi smartphone is released after 2017, the probability of support MHL Except for some Mi A (Android One) models, but manual switching is required ADB.

Official list of Xiaomi smartphones with MHL

We have analyzed technical specifications and user reviews to create an up-to-date list of supported devices, all of which have been certified by the MHL Consortium and work with the original adapters:

Note: Mi 5s, Mi 5s Plus and newer models do not support MHL, despite the availability of USB-C. The manufacturer has switched to DisplayPort Alt Mode, which requires other adapters (for example, USB-C to HDMI from Anker or Belkin).

How to check for MHL support on your Xiaomi

If your model is not listed above but released before 2017, you can try to check the compatibility yourself.

1. Check the connector: MHL only works via microUSB or USB-C. The outdated Mini-USB (like on the Mi 1) is not supported.
2. Install the app: Download MHL Checker from Google Play (the Chainfire developer) and it will show you if your phone is certified.
3. Try connecting the adapter: Use the original cable (e.g. Xiaomi MHL Adapter for Mi 5). If the TV screen remains black, the feature is disabled at the firmware level.
4. Check the developer settings: Activate Debugging mode over USB and execute the command: adb shell dumpsys media.display | grep MHL If the answer is empty - no support.

Buy an adapter with certification MHL 2.0/3.0|

Check compatibility with your Xiaomi | model

Update the firmware to the latest version of MIUI|

Connect the charger (5V/2A) for stable operation |

Use it. HDMI-cable-->

⚠️ Attention: On Xiaomi Mi models A1/A2 (Android One) MHL It can only work after manually activating via build.prop. To do this, add the line persist.sys.mhl.enabled=1 And reboot the device — 10%, backup required!

Why Xiaomi’s new smartphones don’t support MHL

Since 2018, Xiaomi has completely abandoned MHL certification in its devices.

• 💰 License fees: Every certified smartphone requires royalty payments to the consortium MHL (before $1 for device).
• 📡 Transition to wireless standards: Miracast and Google Cast require no cables and are supported by all modern TVs.
• ⚡ Problems with energy consumption: MHL It consumes up to 30% of the battery per hour, which is critical for thin cases of new smartphones.
• 🔌 USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode: New Standard to Remove 4K@60Hz without additional chips (used in Mi) 9, Mi 10 newer).

However, the alternatives have disadvantages:

• 🐢 Miracast has a latency of up to 100ms, which is critical for gaming.
• 💸 DisplayPort adapters are 2-3 times more expensive MHL (3000–5000₽ 1,000-1500.₽).
• 🔌 Not all TVs support USB-C → HDMI free-to-adaptive.

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If you want to output an image from the new Xiaomi to your TV, consider the Anker USB-C to HDMI adapter (supports 4K@60Hz and charging).It works with the Mi 9/10/11 and Redmi K20/K30 without any additional settings.

Alternatives to MHL for modern smartphones Xiaomi

If your Xiaomi doesn’t support MHL, here are the working alternatives:

DisplayPort Alt Mode is the best game for games, with minimal latency and high resolution. You can use Miracast to watch movies, but be prepared to slow down when you have low Wi-Fi.

Frequent problems and their solutions

Even on supported Xiaomi models, there may be errors when connecting via MHL. Consider typical scenarios:

• 🔴 Black screen on TV: Causes: unoriginal adapter, power shortage, outdated firmware. Solution: use an externally powered adapter (e.g., externally powered adapter, MHL 3.0 USB-port for charging) and update MIUI.
• 🔊 No Sound: In the Smartphone Sound Settings, select Output through HDMI. If you do not have an option, reset the sound settings to factory (Settings) → Sound. → Reset).
• 🔄 Image flashes or tears: The problem is permission incompatibility. Set the TV mode PC or Game and reduce the resolution on the smartphone to 720p.
• 🔋 The smartphone is running out fast: MHL consume 1.5And the current, plug the charger in. 5V/2A parallel to the adapter (use the Y-cable).

⚠️ Note: On models Xiaomi Mi 5 with firmware MIUI 10+ may require a rollback until MIUI 9 for stable employment MHL. This is due to energy efficiency optimizations that conflict with the MHL-chip.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions

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If your Xiaomi smartphone is released before 2017, there are chances of MHL support - check the model on our list. For new devices, use DisplayPort Alt Mode or Miracast, but be prepared for delays when wirelessly transfers.