Xiaomi Redmi 3 Pro Fingerprint Scanner: Full Guide

Yes, the Xiaomi Redmi 3 Pro has a fingerprint scanner. It is located on the back, just below the camera, and works reliably for unlocking the phone and authorizing purchases. This guide explains how the scanner works, how to set it up, common problems, and how it compares to other budget phones of its era.

Background: Why the Redmi 3 Pro Stands Out

Released in April 2016, the Redmi 3 Pro was Xiaomi’s first Redmi phone to include a fingerprint sensor. At the time, fingerprint scanners were rare in budget phones, so this feature helped the device stand out. The phone also featured a 5-inch 720p display, a Snapdragon 616 processor, and a 4100 mAh battery, which was unusually large for its size. The fingerprint scanner was a key selling point, promising quick and secure access without needing to enter a PIN or pattern.

How the Fingerprint Scanner Works

The scanner uses a capacitive sensor that reads the ridges and valleys of your fingertip. When you place your finger on the sensor, it creates an electrical image, which is then compared to the stored template. If it matches, the phone unlocks. The Redmi 3 Pro’s scanner is fast and accurate for its time, with a response time of about 0.3 seconds. It can store up to 5 different fingerprints, so you can register multiple fingers or allow another person to unlock the phone.

Setting Up the Fingerprint Scanner

To get started, go to Settings > Lock screen & password > Fingerprint. You will need to set a backup PIN or password first. Then follow these steps:

Tap “Add fingerprint”.
Place your finger on the sensor repeatedly, adjusting the position slightly each time.
Lift your finger between scans and continue until the progress bar fills.
Name the fingerprint (e.g., “Right index”) and tap “Done”.

For best results, cover the entire sensor and use a clean, dry finger. Avoid registering the same finger twice if you want to add other fingers later.

Common Problems and Fixes

Users sometimes report that the scanner stops working or becomes unreliable. Here are typical issues and solutions:

Fingerprint not recognized: Clean the sensor and your finger. If your skin is dry or wet, try moisturizing or drying it. Re-register the fingerprint after any significant change in your skin.
Scanner not responding: Restart the phone. If that fails, go to Settings > Lock screen & password > Fingerprint and remove all fingerprints, then re-add them.
Phone asks for PIN after restart: This is normal. The fingerprint scanner is disabled until you enter your PIN once after a reboot, for security reasons.
Scanner works but doesn’t unlock: Check that “Unlock with fingerprint” is enabled in the fingerprint settings. Some users accidentally disable it.

If problems persist, a factory reset may help, but back up your data first.

Comparison with Other Phones

Compared to contemporaries like the 2016 Moto G4 Plus (which also had a fingerprint scanner) or the Samsung Galaxy J5 (2016, which did not), the Redmi 3 Pro offered a good balance of price and features. The scanner was on the back, which some users prefer for ergonomics, while others prefer front-mounted sensors. The Redmi 3 Pro’s scanner was generally accurate, though not as fast as flagship models of the same year. It also lacked gesture support (like swiping to open notifications), which some other phones had.

Security and Limitations

The fingerprint scanner on the Redmi 3 Pro is secure enough for everyday use, but it is not as secure as a strong PIN or password. Fingerprints can be copied from surfaces, and the sensor can be fooled by a high-quality print. For this reason, it is advisable to use a complex PIN as a backup and to avoid using the fingerprint for sensitive apps like banking if you are concerned about security. Also, the scanner only works when the screen is off if you press it; it does not wake the phone by just touching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the fingerprint scanner to pay with the Redmi 3 Pro?
Yes, if you use a payment app that supports fingerprint authentication, such as Alipay or WeChat Pay (in China), you can authorize payments with your fingerprint. However, this depends on the app and region.

How many fingerprints can I store?
You can store up to 5 fingerprints. This is enough for your own fingers and perhaps a family member.

Does the scanner work with a screen protector?
Yes, most screen protectors do not affect the back-mounted scanner. However, if you use a thick case that covers the sensor, it may interfere. Make sure the cutout is precise.

What if I forget my backup PIN?
If you forget your PIN, you will need to reset the phone via recovery mode, which erases all data. You can avoid this by using a PIN you remember or by writing it down in a secure place.

Is the fingerprint scanner fast?
For its time, yes. It takes about 0.3 seconds to unlock, which is comparable to other mid-range phones from 2016. It is not as fast as modern flagships, but it is still usable.

Can I use the scanner to answer calls or take photos?
No, the Redmi 3 Pro’s fingerprint scanner only supports unlocking and payment authentication. It does not have gesture shortcuts.

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