The choice of wearables this year has gone from being a simple accessory to a complex process of analyzing technical specifications and ecosystem connections, with the market oversaturated with offers from sub-brands and partners such as Amazfit and Redmi, often baffling consumers, and balancing the desire for premium functionality with the need to keep a budget, as the price range for the Chinese giant’s devices is huge.
In 2023, the company made a bet on the division (product lines): budget trackers received AMOLED-The new models have full-fledged operating systems with the ability to install third-party applications, which creates a unique situation where even an inexpensive device can offer functionality previously available only in the luxury segment. However, not all models are equally useful for different use cases.
It is important to understand that under the brand Xiaomi today hides a lot of OEM-The build quality or software may vary, with some watches perfect for a marathoner, others a stylish addition to a business suit, and others disappointing the iPhone owner with the limitations of iOS. We will discuss the key aspects of the selection so that you do not overpay for unnecessary features.
Key criteria for choosing a smart watch
The first and most important parameter is always smartphone compatibility. If you have Android, you have all the doors of the ecosystem open to you, including installing third-party widgets and advanced notifications. iOS owners have to put up with the reduced functionality of many models, although basic health monitoring and notifications work consistently on all devices.
The second criterion is the type of operating system. Devices fall into two main categories: those that run on proprietary RTOS (Real-Time Operating System), and full-fledged Wear OS or their counterparts. The former are phenomenal autonomy, running for up to two weeks without recharging, but offer a limited set of functions. The latter allow you to install maps, instant messengers and music, but require daily charging.
⚠️ Note: When buying a model with Wear OS Make sure you are compatible with your iPhone, as many features may be blocked or not work properly outside the Android ecosystem.
The third aspect is sensors and accuracy. In 2023, the de facto standard was new generation optical pulsemeters and GPS modules. However, GPS implementation can be built-in or connected (via phone). For runners, having an integrated GNSS module is critical, as it allows you to leave your phone at home.
Budget segment: Xiaomi Smart Band and Redmi
The Mi Band line (now often referred to as the Xiaomi Smart Band) remains the king of the budget segent, offering an incredible value for money.The eighth generation received a huge by the standards of trackers. AMOLED-It's an ideal choice for those who are getting acquainted with wearable electronics for the first time or looking for a simple step counter.
Redmi is also a close-knit sub-brand with the Watch Active and Watch 4 Active. These devices often copy the Apple Watch’s design, offering a rectangular body and a rich array of sport modes, and their main advantage is the presence of built-in GPS in some versions, which is rare for such a price range.
The body materials in this segment are predominantly plastic, making the watch light and invisible on the hand. However, the straps here are often non-standard fasteners, which limits the choice of accessories. OS or proprietary shell Xiaomi, providing a fast interface.
- 📱 Xiaomi Smart Band 8 – the king of autonomy with a neck mount or sneakers.
- ⌚ Redmi Watch 3 – Fully-fledged watch with AMOLED and Bluetooth calls.
- 💰 Xiaomi Smart Band 7 Pro – a hybrid format with built-in GPS big-screen.
💡
For maximum savings, consider buying a previous generation (e.g. Band 7) if you don’t need the latest health sensors – the difference in functionality is minimal.
Middle class: Xiaomi Watch S and Lite series
This segment is where a real variety of materials and technologies begin. The Watch S series often features sapphire glass and a stainless steel body, which gives it a premium look. It already has NFC support for contactless payment (depending on the region) and the ability to receive calls through a built-in speaker and microphone.
The Lite series, which is a middle ground, is usually devoid of some premium features like Always-On Display or metal body, but retains key features of older models such as accurate SpO2 monitoring and advanced sports modes, a top choice for office workers.
Autonomy in the middle class varies from 7 to 12 days depending on the screen settings. The operating system here is most often proprietary, energy-optimized. The user gets a smooth interface, but can not install apps from the Google Play store.
| Model | Case material | Screen. | Autonomy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Watch S1 Active | Polycarbonate | AMOLED 1.2" | 12 days |
| Xiaomi Watch S1 | Nerzh. | AMOLED 1.43" | 15 days |
| Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro | Titan/Sapphire | AMOLED 1.47" | 14 days |
| Xiaomi Watch S2 | Polycarbonate | AMOLED 1.2" | 12 days |
⚠️ Note: Models with the "Active" index often have a stripped-down set of sensors compared to the base version S1, Check closely for availability NFC and barometer before purchase.
Flagship Solutions and Wear OS
The top of the evolution of Xiaomi watches in 2023 was devices running Google’s Wear OS. Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro marks the brand’s return to the full-fledged smartwatch segment, which allows you to install navigation maps, Spotify, Telegram and other applications directly from the Google Play Store.
The performance of these watches is provided by the Snapdragon Wear processor, which guarantees smooth animation and fast interface work. However, there is a high price to pay for this: autonomy is only 1-2 days when used actively. It is no longer just a tracker, but a full-fledged computer on the wrist.
For users of the Xiaomi ecosystem, the watch offers the ability to control a smart home right from the wrist. Integration with the Mi Home allows you to turn on the lights, check the cameras and control robot vacuum cleaners without having to take out your phone, making them indispensable for owners of a smart apartment.
- 🚀 Wear OS Google – Access to thousands of apps and services.
- 📍 Google Maps – full navigation with voice.
- 💳 Google Pay – Pay in one touch (in supported regions).
Hidden Features of Wear OS
Ecosystem Comparison: Mi Fitness vs. Zepp Life
The choice of watches is often dictated by the app that you have to use daily, with the company now having two main apps: Mi Fitness (formerly Xiaomi Wear) and Zepp Life (formerly Mi Fit), the former geared toward new devices and offering a more modern, if sometimes overloaded, interface.
Zepp Life is considered more stable and lightweight, with a huge community and a lot of third-party dials. Many experienced users prefer to connect even new bracelets to Zepp Life for the sake of familiar functionality and lack of advertising, which is periodically found in Mi Fitness.
Data synchronization is done through cloud services, making it easy to switch from one device to another. However, it is worth considering that some specific clock settings are only available in the “native” app. For example, setting up dials with weather widgets often requires the use of the software that the model recommends.
💡
For maximum comfort, choose the Zepp Life app if stability is important, or Mi Fitness if you need the latest features and integration with the Xiaomi HyperOS ecosystem.
Outcome recommendations and conclusions
The answer to the question of which Xiaomi watch to choose in 2023 depends solely on your needs. If you just want a reliable sleep and step tracker that is forgotten for two weeks, then the Smart Band 8 bundle will be perfect. This device with the largest screen in the history of the lineup covers 90% of the needs of the average user.
For those looking for a stylish accessory and advanced health monitoring, but not ready to charge the gadget every day, the Watch S or Lite series will be the optimal balance.The metal case and sapphire glass will provide durability, and the functionality is enough for most sports.
Enthusiasts and geeks who want maps, music and apps should look to the Watch 2 Pro with Wear OS. It's a choice for those who are willing to put up with short autonomy for maximum functionality.
⚠️ Note: When purchasing Global Version, make sure it supports languages and regions other than China to avoid notification and sync issues.