Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 is one of the most popular smartphones in the budget segment, released in 2018. Despite its age, the device is still actively used due to balanced performance and reliability. SIM-maps: what format is supported, whether you can use two cards at the same time, and how to install them correctly so as not to damage the slot. SIM until compatible with 4G-Networks and features of the hybrid slot.
The Redmi Note 5 (codenamed Whyred) features a hybrid slot that supports either two nano-SIMs or one nano-SIM. + This imposes configuration restrictions, so before buying a card, it is important to understand what exactly you need: the maximum amount of money you need. SIM It's also worth considering that in some regions, modifications with different frequencies supported were sold. 4G β This can affect the speed of the internet.
If you have just purchased a smartphone or are planning to change operators, this article will help you avoid the typical mistakes.
1. What format SIM-The cards are supported by Xiaomi Redmi Note 5
Xiaomi Redmi Note Smartphone 5 It is equipped with a hybrid slot that is compatible exclusively with nano-SIM (format) 4FF, size 12.3 Γ 8.8 Γ 0.67 This means that:
- π± Micro-SIM (3FF) standard SIM (2FF) They will not work, they will have to be cut or replaced by the operator.
- π If you already have a nano-SIM from another device (such as an iPhone or Samsung Galaxy), you can use it without changing.
- πΆ You can install two nano-SIMs at the same time (Dual) SIM) or one nano-SIM + MicroSD (up to 256 GB).
Important: Redmi Note 5 does not support eSIM - only physical nano-SIM cards. SIM (For example, MTS Smart or Tele2 eSIM, it can not be activated on this device.
If you are not sure about your current format SIM, Check it visually:
| SIM format | Size (mm) | Is it good for the Redmi Note 5? |
|---|---|---|
| Standard SIM (2FF) | 25 Γ 15 Γ 0.76 | β No. |
| Micro-SIM (3FF) | 15 Γ 12 Γ 0.76 | β No (needs pruning) |
| Nano-SIM (4FF) | 12.3 Γ 8.8 Γ 0.67 | β Yes. |
| eSIM | Virtual | β No. |
If your card is not suitable in size, it can be cut yourself using a special stack for SIM (It's sold in the salons, or you can order a replacement from the operator, like MegaFon and Beeline, they're replacing it for free. SIM Nano format in their offices.
2 Where is the slot for SIM-maps and how to open them
Slot for SIM-The Redmi Note 5 is on the left end of the device (if you look at the screen), it's combined with a microSD tray and it's closed with a small lid. To remove the tray, you'll need to take it out:
- π Paperclip or special key for extraction SIM (comes complete with a phone).
- π± Flat surface to place phone (such as table).
- π‘ Good lighting β the paper clip hole is small and easy to miss.
Step-by-step:
- Turn off your smartphone (recommended, but not required).
- Find a small hole on the left end next to the volume buttons.
- Insert the paperclip into the hole and press until the click - the tray will be pushed out by 1-2 mm.
- Carefully pull the tray over yourself and remove it completely.
Turn off the phone (optional)
Prepare a nano-SIM and/or microSD
Find a paper clip or key to extract
Put your phone on a flat surface-->
β οΈ Note: Do not use sharp objects (needles, knives, toothpicks) to remove the tray - this can damage the mechanism or scratch the body. If the tray does not extend, do not make excessive efforts: check if you pressed the hole correctly.
After removing the tray, you will see two slots:
- Upper - for the first nano-SIM (usually marked as SIM 1).
- Lower: for the second nano-SIM or microSD (labeled as SIM 2 / SD).
Place the cards with metal contacts down, as shown in the diagram inside the tray, SIM will not be recognized.
3. whether two of these may be used. SIM-Cards at the same time (Dual) SIM)
Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 supports two nano-SIMs at the same time (Dual technology) SIM Dual Standby, DSDS). That means that:
- π Both cards can receive calls, but only one will be active in talk mode (the second is temporarily disabled).
- πΆ Both SIM support 4G, simultaneously 4G-Only one can work (the second one can switch to the second one). 2G/3G).
- π You can set up a call forwarding from one SIM It is useful if one card is often unavailable).
However, there are important limitations:
β οΈ Note: If you use a microSD instead of a second one SIM, duality SIM Also, some operators (e.g. Yota) may not be able to pair with others. SIM network-conflict.
To set the priority SIM for calls and mobile internet:
- Go to Settings. β SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Select Control. SIM-map.
- Tell me which one. SIM will be used by default for: Calls; SMS; Mobile data.
If one of them SIM Not defined, check it out:
- Is it correct (contacts down)?
- Is there any damage on the map (scraping, scratching).
- Does the operator support your area (e.g. Tele2 may not catch the network in some areas)
π‘
If the second SIM catcherless 4G, Try the network settings (Settings) β Mobile Networks: Manually select the mode LTE for.
Compatibility with 4G (LTE) and supported frequencies
Redmi Note 5 is supported by 4G (LTE), But it is important to consider that there are two modifications of the device with different sets of frequencies:
| Modifications | Supported 4G-ranges | Regions of distribution |
|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 5 Global (whyred) | B1 (2100), B3 (1800), B5 (850), B7 (2600), B8 (900), B38 (2600), B40 (2300), B41 (2500) | Europe, Russia, India, South-East Asia |
| Redmi Note 5 China | B1, B3, B5, B40, B41 | China may not support B7/B8/B38 in some countries) |
For Russia and CIS countries, the ranges are critically important:
- B3 (1800 MHz β the main one for MTS, Beeline, MegaFon;
- B7 (2600 MHz β used to increase speed in cities;
- B20 (800MHz) β Redmi Note 5 is not supported, which could worsen coverage in rural areas.
If your operator is using B20 (For example, Yota or Tele2 in some regions, speed 4G It may be below what you expect. SIM You can access the operatorβs website or NetMonster app.
To manually select a network 4G:
- Go to Settings. β SIM-maps and mobile networks β [choose SIM] β Type of network.
- Choose. 4G (recommended or Only LTE.
- If the network is not catching, try the mode 3G/2G (motor-car).
How to check the frequencies you support SIM?
5 Can you use a microSD with two of them? SIM-map
No, the Redmi Note 5 has a hybrid slot, which means:
- β Two nano-SIMs (without microSD);
- β Or one nano-SIM. + MicroSD (second) SIM doesn't work).
That's a limitation of the smartphone architecture. SIM, and additional memory, consider alternatives:
- π Use cloud storage (Google Drive, Yandex Drive);
- π Move the files to USB-supportive OTG;
- π± Buy a smartphone with a separate microSD slot (like the Redmi Note 8 or the Redmi Note). POCO X3).
If you are using MicroSD, consider:
- Maximum supported volume β 256 GB (format) FAT32 exFAT).
- Read/write speed depends on the card class (recommended) UHS-I Class 10).
- Some apps (such as WhatsApp) do not allow data to be transferred to the Internet. SD.
β οΈ Note: When you extract the MicroSD while recording data (for example, while shooting a video), the card may become corrupted. Always safely extract it through settings (Settings) β Warehouse β Extract SD-map).
6. Frequent problems with SIM-maps and their solutions
Redmi Note 5 users sometimes face errors related to the SIM-Let's look at the most common ones and how to eliminate them:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| SIM-map not defined | Incorrect installation, damage to the card or slot | Reset the card, check contacts, try a different SIM |
| No network (only emergency calls) | Unsupported range 4G, fault | Manually select the network in the settings or reset them |
| Slow Internet in 4G | Weak signal, overloaded tower, inappropriate range | Check the operator's coverage, switch to 3G |
| SIM only works with 2G | Network settings reset or operator restricted 4G | Update your APN settings or contact the operator |
If neither of these methods worked, it could be a firmware or hardware problem.
- Update your smartphone to the latest version MIUI (Settings β The phone. β Updating the system).
- Reset network settings (Settings β System β Resetting β Network settings reset).
- Contact the service center (if the slot is physically damaged).
π‘
If SIM It's not clear when the phone crashes, and it's likely that the slot's contact has gone away, so you need to disassemble the device.
7. How to transfer contacts and data when changing SIM-map
Replacement SIM-Many users face the problem of moving contacts. In Redmi Note 5, this can be done in several ways:
- βοΈ Sync with Google Account: Go to Contacts β Settings β Imports/Exports β Export to storage. Select Export to Google and wait until it's completed. SIM Import contacts from Google.
- π± Copying for new SIM: Insert the new one. SIM Go to the phone. β Settings β Imports/Exports β Copy contacts. Select the source (old) SIM) and purpose (new) SIM).
- πΎ Export to file VCF: Export contacts to the file to internal memory. Transfer the file to a new one. SIM via file manager.
β οΈ Attention: SIM-The card has a limit on the number of contacts (usually) ~250) If you have more records, use Google Contacts or Cloud Storage.
Also, do not forget about other data:
- π· Photos and videos: Move to MicroSD or the cloud (Google Photos).
- π΅ Music: copy it to a memory card or in a Spotify/Yandex Music.
- π SMS: Use applications like SMS Backup & Restore.