When choosing a fitness tracker, appearance often plays no less a role than functionality, because the device you wear on your wrist daily. Xiaomi Mi Band 3 has become an iconic gadget that has radically changed the idea of budget wearable devices, having received a full-fledged smartphone. OLED-It's a display instead of a tiny monochrome screen, and it's visually more modern and technological, and it's been attracting millions of users around the world.
However, to understand exactly how the Xiaomi Mi Band 3 looks live and whether it will fit into your style, one look at the photo is not enough. You need to consider the ergonomics, quality of materials and the features of interaction with the sensor. In this article, we will analyze the appearance of the gadget in detail, so you have a complete picture.
General impression and ergonomics of the capsule
The first thing that catches your eye when you look at the device is the compactness of the main module, the capsule of the tracker is made in the form of an oblong oval with rounded edges, which makes it comfortable to wear even during sleep, the module weighs only about 20 grams, so it is practically not felt on the hand.
The front of the device is completely occupied by a screen that goes into barely visible frames, which creates a floating image, on the back is a charging contact pad and an optical pulse sensor, and the surface of the plastic is smooth, pleasant to the touch, but tends to collect fingerprints.
⚠️ Warning: The glossy surface of the Mi Band 3 screen is easily scratched when in contact with keys or hard surfaces, so it is recommended to purchase a protective film or cover immediately.
The size of the device allows you to wear it under the cuff of your shirt, which is important for office employees. Unlike a massive smart watch, this tracker looks more like a stylish accessory than a technical gadget.
Characteristics and quality AMOLED-screen
The main visual difference from the previous generation was color. AMOLED-The screen size is 0.78 inches, and the resolution is 128 by 80 pixels (PPI) It reaches 193 units, which provides a clear and bright image even in bright sunlight.
The colors on the display are rich, black is really deep thanks to OLED technology, where each pixel is individually illuminated, which not only improves readability, but also saves battery power when using dark dials.
The screen is protected by 2.5D glass that smoothly rounds to the edges, which adds premium value and improves the tactile sensation of swipes, but the glass still requires careful handling.
Technical nuances of the matrix
Touch button and interface management
The interface is controlled through a touch button at the bottom of the screen, which is non-mechanical, and responds to light touch, and is visually marked by only a small indentation in the glass, which preserves the monolithic design.
To activate the screen or switch modes, you need to make a short touch. Long press (about 3 seconds) is usually used to enter the menu or reset current activity. Sensor sensitivity is high, but sometimes you need to get used to the pressing area, especially if the screen is contaminated with sweat or water.
- 👆 Short touch: turn on the screen, move to the next screen.
- 🖐 Swipe up/down: Navigating the menu of functions.
- ⏱ Long press: Entering settings or resetting a workout.
The absence of physical buttons has had a positive impact on the waterproofness of the case, allowing to achieve the 5 ATM standard.
Straps: Materials and compatibility
The standard strap is made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), a hypoallergenic material that does not absorb moisture and is easy to wash, usually with a black or gray strap, but the color range of accessories is huge.
The design of the capsule mounting to the strap has changed from the Mi Band 2. Now the capsule is removed by moving upwards rather than being squeezed out. This made it easier to replace the straps, but required a new design of the bracelet itself.
☑️ What to look for when choosing a strap
There are versions of straps with metal inserts, leather options for the office and bright sports models with perforation.
| Band type | Materials | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Standard. | TPU (Silicon) | Waterproof, hypoallergenic |
| Metallic | Stainless steel | Heavier, looks strict, can pull hair |
| Leathery | Natural/eco skin | Stylish, but afraid of water and sweat |
| Nylon | Wrapped nylon | Breathing, drying quickly, comfortable in summer |
Waterproofness and protection of the body
The exterior of the case looks monolithic, with no visible charging holes or speakers, providing a high level of protection from external influences. The 5 ATM certification means that the device can withstand pressure corresponding to a dive to a depth of 50 meters.
However, it is important to distinguish between static pressure and dynamic loads. Swimming in a pool or shower with a bracelet is possible, but diving from a springboard or taking a hot bath is not recommended. Hot water and steam can damage the adhesive layer that connects the screen and the body.
⚠️ Warning: After contact with salted seawater or chlorinated pool water, be sure to rinse the bracelet with fresh water to avoid contact corrosion and skin irritation.
To charge the device is removed from the strap, so the tracker itself always remains dry inside, unless the integrity of the case is broken.
Dials and appearance customization
The appearance of the Xiaomi Mi Band 3 depends heavily on the chosen dial. Standard firmware offers several options for design: analog watch, digital format, display steps or time in the form of a progress bar.
With third-party apps and modified versions of Mi Fit, you can install thousands of custom dials, which allows you to change not only the numbers, but also background images, color indicators and the location of elements.
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Use dark dials with black background to save battery life, as black pixels on the back of the pixels. AMOLED-screen does not consume energy.
Customization allows you to adapt the device to any style of clothing or mood, making each bracelet unique.
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Xiaomi Mi Band 3 is a balance between minimalism and functionality, where the design is completely subordinated to the ease of wearing and readability of data.