Smart scales from Chinese giant Xiaomi have become the standard for health watchers. However, even the most sophisticated device requires periodic maintenance, and most often users face the need to replace the power source. The question of what batteries Xiaomi weighs comes suddenly when the gadget stops turning on or begins to emit errors when weighing.
Owners of Mi Body Composition Scale 2 and Mi Smart Scale 2 models are often confused because the design of the device does not involve frequent interference. It is important to understand that using the wrong type of battery can lead to incorrect sensors or even damage to the contact group. In this article, we will discuss in detail the specifications of the manufacturer.
The wrong choice of energy source is not just a risk that the device will not turn on. Unstable voltage can distort the data on the percentage of fat tissue and muscle mass, which is read through complex BIA algorithms. So it is important to know the exact specification and adhere to the recommendations of the company's engineers.
Type and technical characteristics of the power supply
The battery life of most Xiaomi smart scales, including the popular “2” versions, is based on a standard battery. Unlike older mechanical or simple electronic models, modern gadgets require stable voltage for the Bluetooth module and processor to work.
The answer to the question of which batteries in Xiaomi scales is unambiguous: the AAA size is used, which is often called “little finger” – these are cylindrical batteries with a diameter of 10.5 mm and a height of 44.5 mm. The nominal voltage of such a cell is 1.5 Volts, which is the standard for consumer electronics in this class.
It is important to note that only one element is usually installed inside the bay, although the design of some rare modifications may suggest otherwise. For most devices, such as the Mi Body Composition Scale 2, it is critical to use just one AAA battery.
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Use only high-quality alkaline (alkaline) batteries. Salt analogues (Zinc-Carbon) have a lower capacity and can quickly discharge, especially if the scales have not been used for a long time.
The contact group inside the compartment is made of elastic metal, which provides a reliable connection. When installing a new element, you need to monitor the polarity, which is indicated at the bottom of the plastic container. An error in polarity (plus and minus) will not allow the device to work, but, fortunately, rarely leads to serious electronic breakdowns.
Differences between Xiaomi's weight models
Xiaomi’s scale lineup and the Mijia ecosystem are quite extensive, and while most of them use the same type of power, there are nuances: Understanding the differences between the Mi Smart Scale (first generation) models and the newer versions will help avoid confusion.
The first-generation scale, known as the Mi Smart Scale 1, also ran on AAA-format batteries, but had a slightly different bottom panel design.Modern models such as the Mi Body Composition Scale 2 received improved design and more energy-efficient controllers, allowing for longer lifespans of one element to 12 months or more.
There are also battery-powered models, but they are less common and usually belong to the professional segment or more expensive lines.For standard home devices, which can be found in most apartments, the rule is one: one AAA battery. Below is a table for quick orientation by model.
| Model of the device | Type of element | Number (s) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Smart Scale (1 gen) | AAA (LR03) | 1 | Classic design |
| Mi Body Composition Scale 2 | AAA (LR03) | 1 | Improved sensor |
| Mi Smart Scale 2 | AAA (LR03) | 1 | Minimalist design |
| Xiaomi Body Fat Scale | AAA (LR03) | 1 | Basic version |
Instructions for replacing the battery in the scale
The process of replacing the power source is as simple as possible by Xiaomi engineers, but requires care. Before starting the procedure, make sure that the surface on which the scales are standing is dry and clean. Turn the device downwards to access the bottom panel.
In the center of the bottom of the device is a round or oval compartment, closed with a lid. It does not require any tools to open it - the lid is removed by hand. You need to rest your finger on a special ledge or just pull the lid on yourself with moderate effort, scrolling it counterclockwise if it has a threaded connection (rarely found, more often it is just a lock).
☑️ Battery replacement process
After removing the old element, wipe the contacts inside the compartment with a dry cloth or cotton swab to remove any possible dust or oxides. Insert a new battery, making sure the positive pole (+) matches the marking on the bottom. Close the lid, pressing it tightly until the characteristic click.
Right after the weight change, it may not turn on. That's normal. It often requires a little pressure on the platform to activate the calibration. The screen should light up, displaying a zero value or current weight. If it doesn't, check the polarity setting again.
How long are batteries and signs of discharge
One of the main advantages of Xiaomi smart scales is their energy efficiency, and manufacturers claim that one high-quality battery lasts up to 12 months with active use (multiple weighings per day), but the actual life of the battery depends on many factors.
The main sign that the battery life is coming to an end is unstable operation of the device. The scales can turn on, but go out during the weighing process, or display incorrect data.
⚠️ Note: If the scales start to “lie” or show different values when weighing again at a minimum interval, first replace the battery, even if the charge indicator in the application is not yet critical.
Frequency also plays a role. If you weigh infrequently, battery self-discharge can be a bigger factor than the device's energy consumption, in which case it is recommended to remove the battery if the scales are not planned to be used for a long time.
Why does the battery run out if you don’t use the scale?
Problems and their solution in replacement
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where replacing the battery does not solve the problem. Libras may not turn on or work intermittently. One common reason is the oxidation of contacts. Over time, the fumes from the batteries or the humidity in the bathroom can create an oxide film on the metal.
To address this problem, carefully clean the contacts inside the compartment with a blower or cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Let the contacts dry completely before installing the new element. Also check the spring contacts - they should not be too stretched or, conversely, depressed.
Another possible problem is the use of rechargeable batteries (Ni-MH), which have a rated voltage of 1.2 volts, which is lower than the standard 1.5 volts. Although the scales can earn, the system can perceive this as low charge and constantly require replacement or operate unstable.
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For stable operation of Xiaomi scales, use only disposable alkaline batteries with a voltage of 1.5V. Rechargeable batteries can cause voltage errors.
If the battery is replaced and the contacts are cleaned, the device still doesn't respond, maybe the problem lies deeper in the sensor itself or the control board, in which case self-repair is complex and requires special skills in soldering and calibrating strain gauges.
The choice of the battery manufacturer: what to look for
The battery market is full of supply, and it can be difficult to choose the right option. For smart scales that need to run long and stable, battery savings are not the best option. Cheap salt cells (usually labeled as Heavy Duty or simply Carbon-Zinc) have a small capacity and can leak.
Alkaline batteries from well-known brands such as Duracell, Energizer, GP or IKEA are the best choice. They provide stable voltage throughout their lifespan, and specialized AAA lithium batteries, which operate at lower temperatures and have a longer shelf life, are also a good choice.
Pay attention to the production date. Batteries have an expiration date, which is usually 5-10 years. Buying an expired battery, you risk getting a device with already reduced capacity. The date is often stamped on the case or on the blister pack.
⚠️ Warning: Never mix old and new batteries, or different types or manufacturers of cells, in the same device.This can lead to electrolyte leakage and damage to the scales.