Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 (and its Redmi Note 5 Pro) is still a popular choice among users who value balance of price and performance. However, when buying a used device or replacing a SIM card, many people are faced with the question: what SIM format does this device support? The answer depends on the version of the smartphone, the region of release and even the specific modification of the slot.
In this article, we will discuss in detail:
- 🔹 What kind of types SIM-Redmi Note 5 compatible cards (including Global, China and India versions)
- 🔹 How to distinguish a hybrid slot from a standard two-sim
- 🔹 Can you use micro-SIM or nano-SIM without an adapter?
- 🔹 Does the device support eSIM (and why it matters in 2026)
- 🔹 Step-by-step instructions for installing a SIM card without the risk of damaging the tray
You’ll also find a compatibility table, warnings about common errors, and answers to frequent questions — like what to do if your smartphone doesn’t see the second SIM or requires you to trim the card — if you’re planning to buy a Redmi Note 5 with your hands or have already experienced communication problems, this information will save you time and nerves.
1. Which one? SIM-Xiaomi Redmi Note 5: Technical Specifications
All modifications of Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 are equipped with a hybrid slot for the SIM-maps, but their configuration depends on the region:
- 🌍 Global version (M1803E7G): 2 nano-SIM + microSD (hybrid slot)
- 🇨🇳 Chinese version (M1803E7S): 2 nano-SIM or 1 nano-SIM + microSD (hybrid)
- 🇮🇳 Redmi Note 5 Pro: 2 nano-SIM + microSD-slot
Important: Chinese versions often block dual SIM cards at the same time unless global firmware is installed, which is due to operators’ policies in China that prioritize one SIM.
Physically, the slot is designed for nano-SIM (4FF) – this is the standard format for all modern Xiaomi smartphones. Using micro-SIM (3FF) is possible only with an adapter, but this is fraught with problems:
- 🚫 Risk of getting stuck in the slot
- 🚫 Loss of communication due to inconsistency
- 🚫 Damage to contacts during extraction
💡
If you have an old micro-SIM, don't cut it yourself! Better contact the communications salon - trimming with scissors often leads to chip chip chips and card failure.
2 Where is the slot for SIM-maps and how to open them
Slot for SIM-The maps in Redmi Note 5 are on the left side of the device. To extract the tray, you'll need a paper clip or a special key (included:
- Turn off your smartphone (optional, but recommended for safety).
- Find a small hole next to the slot and insert a paper clip at a 90° angle into it.
- Press until you click - the tray will be pushed out by 1-2 mm.
- Carefully stretch the tray completely.
⚠️ Warning: Do not use sharp objects (needles, toothpicks) - they can damage the fixation mechanism. If the tray does not come out, do not apply excessive force: check if the tongue of the retainer is bent inside.
On the tray you will see the scheme of placement of cards:
- 📱 For one nano-SIM, the upper groove
- 📱 For two nano-SIMs, both slots (in hybrid versions, the second slot can be microSD)
What to do if the tray is stuck?
3. whether two of these may be used. SIM-mapping?
The ability to work with two SIM cards depends on the version of the smartphone and firmware:
| Modifications | Two SIMs at the same time | SIM + microSD | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 5 Global (M1803E7G) | ✅ Yes. | ❌ No (hybrid slot) | Supports 4G on both SIMs, but only one can be on standby call mode |
| Redmi Note 5 China (M1803E7S) | ⚠️ Partially. | ❌ No. | On stock firmware, the second SIM works only for data. ROM |
| Redmi Note 5 Pro (India) | ✅ Yes. | ✅ Yes (dedicated slot) | Best configuration for two SIMs + memory card |
⚠️ Note: On the Chinese versions with original firmware MIUI China's second SIM may not register online, even if physically installed. The solution is to install a global or custom firmware (e.g. Xiaomi.eu).
If you need both SIMs + Memory card, consider buying Redmi Note 5 Pro (India) - this is the only modification with a dedicated slot for microSD. In other cases, you will have to choose between a second SIM or a memory extension.
4. Does Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 eSIM support?
No, the Redmi Note 5 does not support eSIM. This technology has only appeared in Xiaomi smartphones since 2020 (starting with the Mi 10 and Redmi K30 Pro).
If you need eSIM support, consider newer models:
- 📱 Xiaomi 12/13 Series (full support for eSIM)
- 📱 Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G (hybrid + eSIM)
- 📱 POCO F4/F5 (similarly)
⚠️ Note: Some users are trying to “cheat” the system with the help of eSIM-to-nano-SIM adapters. This does not work – the smartphone simply does not recognize the virtual SIM, and the adapter can damage the slot contacts.
5. Typical problems with SIM-maps and their solutions
If the Redmi Note 5 doesn’t see the SIM card, check out the following:
Is the card installed correctly (chip down)?
Are the contacts on the map and in the slot (wipe with alcohol)?
Does the carrier support your 4G frequency (e.g. Tele2 may not work on Chinese versions)?
Is the firmware updated to the latest version of MIUI?
Have you tried resetting your network settings (Settings)? → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Reset)?-->
Common mistakes and decisions:
- 🔄 "No network: Reboot your smartphone or turn on/off flight mode. If it doesn't work, check if the metal case blocks the signal (especially for magnet cases).
- 📵 "SIM-map not supported": This is a mistake of the Chinese versions.Solution - Global firmware ROM or APN operator.
- 🔋 "Second SIM turns off at low charge": In battery settings (Settings) → Battery. → Optimization: Turn off optimization for the application "SIM-map".
If the smartphone stopped seeing the SIM after falling or getting moisture, the problem may be damage to the antenna module, in which case only repairs in the service center will help.
6. How to trim. SIM-map for nano-format independently
If you only have a micro-SIM or a standard SIM, you can trim it to a nano-SIM, but it's risky. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Download the clipping template and print it in real size (100% scale).
- Plug the pattern on SIM-map and circle the contour of the nano-SIM marker.
- Cut the excess with a stationery knife (not scissors!) along the line, leaving a stock of 0.5 mm.
- Treat the edges with small sandpaper (so that there are no burrs).
- Check that the chip is not damaged and insert the card into the smartphone.
⚠️ Note: Self-pruning cancels the operator's warranty SIM-If the chip cracks, it will be impossible to restore the card. ~100-200 rubles).
💡
Even a perfectly cropped nano-SIM may not work if the slot contacts are contaminated.Always clean the slot from dust before installing a new card!
7. Operator Compatibility: Which Sims Work Better
Redmi Note 5 supports all Russian operators, but there are nuances:
- 📡 MTS, Beeline, MegaFon: Full compatibility with 4G (Band 3/7/20).
- 📡 Tele2: May not catch 4G Chinese versions (manual adjustment required) APN).
- 📡 Yota, Tinkoff Mobile: Works only in mode 2G/3G firmware.
- 🌍 Foreign operators: No problems in the EU and Asia, but the US may not support Band 12/17 (T-Mobile).
For stable 4G operation on both sims, it is recommended:
- Update the firmware to the latest version of MIUI.
- Manually select networks (Settings) → SIM-map → Preferred type of network → 4G).
- Disable automatic operator selection if the smartphone “loses” the network.
If your internet speed is lower than expected, check the supported frequencies of your Redmi Note 5 version on the FrequencyCheck website.