How to accurately determine the version of the robot vacuum cleaner Xiaomi

Smart tech owners often face confusion when trying to upgrade their firmware or connect their device to a server. Xiaomi’s robot vacuum cleaners come in dozens of variations, and one mistake in choosing a region can block functionality. Understanding what kind of modification you have is critical to the stability of the entire ecosystem.

The differences between the versions are not only about the interface language, but also about the frequency of the radio module, the type of filtering, and even the geometry of the brushes. If you plan to buy consumables or adjust voice control, you need to know the exact article of the device. In this article, we will look at all the ways to identify your gadget.

There are several reliable methods to find out the version, ranging from a simple inspection of the case and ending with analysis. MAC-The model code always starts with the letter V (e.g., the letter V, V2, V5, V10) It is a key identifier of the platform, and ignoring this data can make it impossible to use the card in the application.

Visual identification by sticker on the body

The fastest and most reliable way to know the version of your device is to look at the bottom of the case, flip the robot vacuum cleaner over and find the information sticker next to the side brush or wheel, and that's where the manufacturer specifies the factory code, which doesn't change when you flash it.

Note the "Model" box, which will show a code consisting of letters and numbers, such as dreame.vacuum.p2009 or roborock.vacuum.s5, which is necessary to find compatible parts, and users often confuse the marketing name (for example, "Mi Robot Vacuum Mop 2 Pro") with the technical model.

• 🔍 Find a sticker on the bottom of the device hidden under a removable water tank or garbage collector.
• 📝 Write down the code following the word "Model", it usually looks like brand.device.model.
• 🌐 Note the barcode: if there are characters nearby, here is the Chinese version (CN).
• 🔌 Check the charging station plug: European (EU) Fork does not guarantee global firmware, it is only a complete set for the region.

It's important to understand that the look of the device may be identical across different markets, but the internal content and software will be different. If the sticker only says Chinese or doesn't have the CE marking, this is the version for the domestic Chinese market.

⚠️ Warning: Don’t try to remove the sticker for a better view – it contains important production date and party number data that you may need in warranty service.

Version definition through the Mi Home app

Your device's digital passport is stored in the Mi Home app, which is the most convenient way, because it shows not only the model, but also the current version of firmware and the anchor region, and you need to go to the device card to get the information.

Click on the three dots in the upper right corner of the vacuum control interface. In the menu that opens, select "Device Settings" and you'll see detailed technical information, including technical information. MAC-address.

The "Region" field is worth paying special attention to, because if you're looking at China, you can't control a device from another country without changing the region in the app, and the global versions allow you to choose servers in Europe or the United States, which allows you to have more stable connections and support for voice assistants.

• 📱 Open the Mi Home app and go to the main screen.
• ⚙️ Click on your vacuum cleaner icon, then three dots in the corner.
• ℹ️ Select "About" or "Device settings".
• 📄 Find the line "Model" - there will be an exact technical identifier.

Sometimes an app can show a generic name, hiding a specific modification, and then checking it will help. MAC-The first few symbols MAC-Addresses may point to the Wi-Fi chip manufacturer, which indirectly confirms the device generation.

Differences between CN, Global and EU versions

Understanding the difference between regional versions is key to successful operation. The Chinese version (CN) often has more functionality and launches earlier, but requires customization through the China region.

European models (EU) are necessarily CE-marked on the case and a European standard fork. However, the presence of a euro fork does not always mean global firmware - unscrupulous sellers can complete Chinese devices with adapters.

Users often wonder if they can be used. CN-Technically, this is possible for some models through soldering of a memory chip or using special utilities, but this cancels the warranty and carries the risk of turning the device into a brick".

Also worth noting are the differences in the frequency of a wireless module: Some countries allow certain Wi-Fi channels that can be blocked in the firmware for another region, which can result in the vacuum cleaner simply not seeing your home network.

Analysis MAC-address and serial number

If the sticker is erased, and the information in the application is hidden, help will come. MAC-This is a unique identifier for the network interface, and Xiaomi devices and their sub-brands (Roborock, Dreame, Viomi) have certain prefixes. MAC-Addresses by which the manufacturer can be identified.

The serial number (SN) also contains encoded information, usually the first characters indicate the manufacturer, and the subsequent ones indicate the date of release and the serial number, and if you know the date of release, you can compare this with the release of specific models.

An example of decoding the MAC prefix:


3C:CD:93 - Roborock




A4:C1:38 - Xiaomi




28:6C:07 - Dreame

For advanced users, there is a method of traffic analysis, and by connecting to the router logs, you can see which domain the device accesses when it starts up. The Chinese versions try to connect to.miio-global.com domains or specific Chinese servers, while the global ones use European clusters.

• 🔗 Look at this. MAC-address in router settings or on sticker.
• 🔎 Compare the first 6 characters (OUI) producer database.
• 📅 Decipher the date in the serial number (usually the format of GGMM or Unix time).
• 🌐 Check it out. DNS-Device requests to determine target server.

This method requires technical literacy, but it's the only one that's true if there's no physical markings. DNS-requests not to block the device with a firewall.

Checking of equipment and accessories

The appearance of components can tell about the version as much as the stickers. The charging station is the first indicator. Chinese versions often have a flat fork with two holes (an adapter is required) or a specific three-pin fork.

The instruction package is another marker: Global versions must have instruction in the languages of the Eurasian Union (if supplied officially in Russia/CIS) or a multilingual booklet. Only Chinese characters and English speaks about the version for China.

Also, look at the color and shape of the garbage can. Some models for China come with tanks without any. HEPA-filter (only cyclone), whereas in Europe, the availability of high-quality filtration is a mandatory requirement of the legislation.

⚠️ Warning: Not having the original box does not mean a fake or the wrong version.Many devices are sold in format OEM Open Box, so focus on the marking of the robot itself.

Additional accessories, such as additional filters or wet cleaning wipes, may also be marked with a region.The texture of the fabric and the density of the filter material may vary depending on the market requirements.

Specifics of Dreame, Viomi and Roborock models

Xiaomi’s ecosystem includes many sub-brands, and each has its own naming system. Roborock typically uses alphanumeric notations (S5, S6, S7), where the letter stands for the series and the number for the generation. Dreame often labels models as L10, L20, where L stands for Laser (laser rangefinder).

Viomi brand devices can have a completely different interface in the application (Viomi App instead of Mi Home) or require you to select a specific region in the settings. OEM-Other companies, such as Mijia.

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If your vacuum cleaner is not visible in the Mi Home app, try downloading a separate brand app (like Dreame Home or Roborock), often they work more stable for specific lines.

It is important to know that the firmware of these brands is not interchangeable. Filling software from Roborock S5 on Viomi S9 will cause a malfunction. Always check the exact model number before looking for updates.

• 🤖 Roborock: Series S (flagships), Series E (budget), Series Q (new form factors).
• 🌀 Dreame: Series L (laser), Series D (budget with gyroscope), Series V (handheld).
• 💧 Viomi: Often integrated with XiaoAI voice assistant, can have dual tanks.
• 🏠 Mijia: The baseline, often re-branded as a Dreame or Roborock model.

Understanding affiliation with a specific sub-brand helps to quickly find support and forums for enthusiasts. Roborock owner communities, for example, are very active in creating alternative firmware and integrations with Home Assistant.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Defining the model accurately is the first step to setting up automation and buying the right consumables. Don't ignore the technical stickers.