Smart scales are no longer just a weight measurement tool, they are full-fledged health control assistants. The two most popular brands on the market, Xiaomi and Picooc, offer advanced devices, but they are easy to confuse. Both manufacturers are part of the Mi Ecosystem ecosystem, use similar bioimpedance analysis technologies and integrate with the Mi Fit application. So why are the prices and reviews different on the model?
At first glance, the difference seems small: both brands release scales with body composition analysis, Bluetooth synchronization and minimalist design. But when you look at the detailed comparison, it turns out that Picooc is often positioned as a more “premium” option, and Xiaomi as a budget one with a focus on basic features. In this article, we will discuss 10 key differences that will help you choose the right model: from measurement accuracy to compatibility with other gadgets of the ecosystem.
1. Manufacturer and branding: who is behind the scales?
Both brands are closely related to Xiaomi, but their status in the ecosystem is different.
- 🏭 Xiaomi is the company’s own brand, under which the Mi Smart Scale series (for example, Mi Body Composition Scale 2) are produced. They undergo strict quality control and often become bestsellers due to the price/quality ratio.
- 🤝 Picooc is a partner brand in the Mi Ecosystem ecosystem (like Yeelight or Viomi) and specializes exclusively in smart scales and health devices, allowing it to delve deeper into niche features.
Picooc often experiment with design and materials, for example, their flagship models (like the Picooc S3 Lite) have a glass surface with anti-slip coating, while Xiaomi has a predominantly matte plastic, and both brands use the same manufacturing plants in China, which explains the similarity of the “stuffing” devices.
⚠️ Warning: There are counterfeits under both brands on the market.The original scales of Xiaomi and Picooc always have QR-- the code on the bottom to verify authenticity through the official application. If the code is missing or not scanned, it is 100% fake.
Measurement accuracy: why can the readings differ?
One of the most common questions users ask is, “Why do Xiaomi and Picooc scales show different weights and percentages of fat?” The answer lies in the algorithms of data processing and calibration of sensors.
Both brands use bioimpedance analysis (BIA) technology, but with different approaches:
- 📊 Xiaomi is focused on average data for a wide audience, their scales (for example, Mi Smart Scale 2) often understate the percentage of fat and overstate muscle mass due to simplified formulas for calculating the calculation.
- 🎯 Picooc uses adaptive algorithms that take into account the gender, age and activity level of the user. S3 Adjustment of indications for athletes and seniors.
In tests by independent labs (such as Wirecutter or RTINGS.com), the range of readings between brands can reach ±3% for fat mass and ±1.5 kg for weight when measured on the same person, both devices showing stable results in dynamics (that is, weight changes are tracked correctly).
3. Design and materials: which is more convenient to use?
Both brands look minimalistic, but there are key differences in ergonomics:
| Parameter | Xiaomi | Picooc |
|---|---|---|
| Platform material | Matte plastic or tempered glass (in premium models) | Tempered glass with anti-slip coating (even in budget models) |
| Weight of the device | 1.8-2.2 kg | 2.0-2.5 kg (more stable) |
| Color options | Black, white, sometimes gray | Black, White, Pink, Blue (more choices) |
| Illumination of the display | LED (Seen only in the dark) | OLED or improved LED (brighter, better readability) |
Picooc’s main advantage is stability: its scales are heavier and wider (platform area ~30×30 cm versus ~28×28 cm in Xiaomi), which reduces the risk of falling when weighed. The glass surface is easier to wash and looks premium. On the other hand, Xiaomi’s plastic scales are less slippery when wet feet (for example, after a shower).
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If the scales are on a carpet or soft coating, put a hard stand under them (for example, a book), which will reduce the error of measurement caused by surface deformation.
Functionality: What parameters measure the scales?
The basic set of metrics for both brands is the same: weight, BMI, percentage of fat, muscle mass, water in the body, bone mass, etc. But there are nuances:
- 🔍 Xiaomi’s budget models (such as the Mi Smart Scale 1) are limited to 8-10 parameters. Premium versions (such as the Xiaomi Smart Scale 2) add blood viscosity analysis and basic metrics.
- 📈 Picooc even in the mid-segment (e.g. Picooc) S3 Lite) offers 13–15 parameters, including visceral fat, metabolism and biological age.
The key difference is the depth of analysis. For example, Picooc scales divide fat mass into subcutaneous and visceral fat, which is important for assessing cardiovascular risk. Xiaomi does not have this detail, but they have a unique feature for measuring weight with a baby (in the Mi Baby Scale models), which Picooc does not.
Another important point is the measurement limits:
- ⚖️ Xiaomi: maximum weight – 150-180 kg (depending on the model), minimum – 5 kg.
- ⚖️ Picooc: maximum weight up to 200 kg (in Picooc models) H1), Minimum - 3 kg (comfortable for children).
5. Compatibility with applications and ecosystem
Both brands sync with Mi Fit (now Zepp Life), but there are differences in integration:
- 🔄 Xiaomi: Data is automatically transferred to Mi Fit, Apple Health and Google Fit. Supports smart scenarios (e.g. synchronization with Mi Band bracelet for comprehensive sleep and activity analysis).
- 📱 Picooc: In addition to Mi Fit, it has its own Picooc app with advanced analytics (scalings of muscle mass changes for the year, nutrition tips.
An important nuance for owners of other Xiaomi gadgets: Picooc scales do not support automatic scripts in the Mi Home app. For example, you can not configure the smart lighting that turns on when weighing, but Picooc has a unique family profile feature - up to 16 users vs. 8 Xiaomi.
⚠️ Note: If you use a Picooc scale with the Mi Fit app, some parameters (such as biological age) may not be displayed.
Make sure it is compatible with your smartphone (iOS/Android)| Check the maximum weight limit | Estimate the number of profiles supported (if the scales are for the family) | Compare the list of parameters measured | Read the testimonials on the accuracy of a particular model-->
6.Price and price/quality ratio
The cost of the scale varies depending on the model, but in general, Picooc is more expensive by 20-30% with similar functionality.
| Model | Price (2026) | Key features | Who's good for? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Mi Smart Scale 2 | ~2 500 ₽ | 13 parameters, Bluetooth 5.0, glass surface | Beginners in fitness, budget option |
| Picooc S3 Lite | ~3 500 ₽ | 15 parameters, visceral fat analysis, bright display | Athletes who monitor heart health |
| Xiaomi Smart Scale 2 Pro | ~4 000 ₽ | Wi-Fi support, synchronization without a smartphone, metal case | Advanced users of the Xiaomi ecosystem |
| Picooc H1 | ~5 500 ₽ | 200 kg max, metabolic analysis, premium design | Professional athletes, major users |
Bottom Line: If you need a basic weight and fat control scale without frills, Xiaomi is the best choice. If advanced analytics, sustainability and design are important, overpaying for Picooc is justified. Note that Picooc models are less likely to be sold out, while Xiaomi scales can be bought at a discount of up to 40% during stock (for example, on AliExpress or Xiaomi Store).
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Picooc scales win in accuracy and number of parameters, but lose in price and integration with the Xiaomi ecosystem.The choice depends on your priorities: analytics vs budget.
Battery and autonomy: which lasts longer?
Both brands use lithium batteries such as CR2032 or AAA, but their lifespan is different:
- 🔋 Xiaomi: average lifespan is 6-8 months for daily use, and budget models run out faster because of the less energy-efficient Bluetooth module.
- 🔋 Picooc: Software-optimized batteries last 10 to 12 months. Some models (e.g. Picooc) S3) Supports fast battery replacement without resetting.
Important point: scales Picooc often equipped with a battery indicator in the application, while Xiaomi this parameter is not displayed in all models. If the battery sits at the most inopportune moment, Xiaomi scales may begin to show incorrect weight or not turn on at all – this is a frequent complaint in reviews.
⚠️ Warning: Never use rechargeable (battery) batteries CR2032 Xiaomi or Picooc scales, and their voltage (3.6V instead of 3V) can damage the electronics of the device, the best option is an alkaline battery Duracell or Energizer.
8. User reviews: what are the most common problems?
Analysis of reviews on Yandex.Market, AliExpress and Mi Community revealed typical complaints about the scales of both brands:
- 📉 Xiaomi: 🔄 Frequent discrepancies in readings when changing weights (for example, on carpet vs tile). 📱 Synchronization problems on iPhone (Mi Fit app can "forget" device). 🛠️ Fragile plastic in budget models (cracks when falling).
- 📈 Picooc: 💰 Overpriced amid minor improvements over Xiaomi. 📊 There is no Russian language in the Picooc app (English and Chinese only). 🔌 Some models require registration to be used.
Interestingly, Picooc users are less likely to complain about inconsistency in readings, but more likely to complain about inconsistency in software. For example, Picooc does not have the ability to export data to Excel, whereas Mi Fit allows this through the web version.