The wearable electronics market reached an incredible level of maturity in 2026, and Xiaomi is one of the leading companies here: Consumers wondering what Xiaomi smartwatches are, are faced with a huge variety of models, each with their own unique characteristics and target audiences. The range of devices has grown from budget fitness bracelets with color screens to premium gadgets with a full operating system and support for eSIM.
It’s important to understand that Xiaomi’s brand is now a mix of sub-brands and partner ecosystems, such as Redmi and Amazfit, which creates confusion but also gives customers a wide range of price categories. In this article, we’ll take a look at the entire model range that’s currently in place so you can choose the device that’s the perfect companion for your smartphone.
Choosing between a classic open-OS smartwatch and an advanced fitness bracelet in the watch case is often a deciding factor: The former offer apps and voice assistant installations, while the latter focus on autonomy and accuracy of health sensors. Let's figure out what you need and which models are worth considering first.
The flagship series Mi Watch and their features
The Mi Watch series represents the tip of the iceberg in the Chinese giant’s wearables world, a full-fledged smartwatch that often runs on the Wear OS operating system or its deep modifications, such as the HyperOS Watch, and features the ability to install third-party apps from the Google Play store or its own Mi Store.
V 2026 The current model is still relevant for the year AMOLED-High-resolution displays and Always-On Displays, which are often made of stainless steel or titanium, giving them a premium look. NFC-module with support for payment systems and module GPS/GLONASS/Galileo for autonomous tracking without a phone.
The owners of these gadgets can answer messages, take calls straight from the wrist (if you have a speaker and microphone), and even pay for purchases. However, the functionality has to be paid for by charging more often, usually every 1-2 days of active use.
- 🔥 eSIM support for independent calls without a smartphone.
- ⌚ Possibility of installation of navigation maps and offline translators.
- 🏊 Advanced health monitoring with body composition and ECG analysis.
It's worth noting that the interface in this series is as customized as possible for finger interaction, not just button interaction. HyperOS provides smooth animation and quick switching between widgets. If you want a second smartphone on your wrist, this is the category of devices you should choose from.
Redmi Watch Series: Balance of Price and Quality
The Redmi Watch line is designed for those looking for the best value for money, often called “smart wristbands in the watch case,” and rightly so, they run on a proprietary operating system that consumes minimal power, providing up to 14 days of uncharged operation.
Unlike the older series, you won't find third-party apps here, but the basic functionality of notifications, sleep tracking and pulse monitors is very high, and the screens in the new Redmi models also have AMOLED technology, which makes the picture juicy and bright even in the sun.
⚠️ Warning: Redmi Watch interface is designed to control a single button and swipes, text entry or complicated navigation on the menu here can be uncomfortable compared to a full-fledged smart watch.
The case is made of durable polycarbonate, making it light and enjoyable to wear. It's a great choice for amateur athletes who don't need complex functions, but it's a big screen and long work. In 2026, the Redmi series received support for voice control of basic functions and improved algorithms for recognizing training.
Synced through Mi Fitness (formerly Zepp Life), which provides detailed statistics, and for users who care about simplicity and the absence of unnecessary tinsel, this is the best option on the market.
- 🔋 Record Autonomy Up to Two Weeks of Active Use.
- 💧 Total water resistance 5 ATM pool-side.
- 📱 Large screen with thin bezels and high pixel density.
Comparative table of characteristics of popular models
To help you figure out what Xiaomi smartwatches are in different price segments, we have prepared a summary table that will help you quickly compare key parameters of flagships and mid-range devices.
| Model | OS | Screen. | Autonomy | GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Watch 3 Pro | HyperOS Watch | AMOLED 1.43" | 2 days | Built-in |
| Redmi Watch 5 Active | Proprietary | LCD 1.9" | 12 days | No (Connected) |
| Mi Watch S4 | HyperOS Watch | AMOLED 1.43" | 3 days | Built-in |
| Redmi Watch 5 | Proprietary | AMOLED 1.9" | 14 days | Built-in |
As you can see from the table, the autonomy gap between the series is significant. However, having built-in GPS in Redmi Watch 5 blurs the line between classes, making the middle line very attractive for runners. The choice of a particular model depends on whether you are willing to sacrifice time to install applications.
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When buying, pay attention to the watch version: Global Version supports Russian and work with European servers, and Chinese Version may require “crutches” for translation and change of region.
Amazfit Ecosystem: Partner Solutions
You can't talk about Xiaomi without mentioning the Amazfit brand. It's formally an independent company, Huami, but historically and technologically, it's closely related to Xiaomi. Many models come under both brands, differing only by the logo on the dial and the box.
The GTS (square) and GTR (round) series have become industry benchmarks, and in 2026, these devices offer technologies that were previously only available in luxury brands, such as measuring blood oxygen (SpO2) levels 24/7 or monitoring stress based on heart rate variability.
Zepp OS is lightweight and fast, it's not overloaded, but it provides everything you need to live a healthy life, and the unique thing about it is PAI, which translates complex medical indicators into understandable numbers.
- 🧠 Artificial intelligence to analyze sleep quality and recommendations.
- 🎵 Built-in memory for music storage (offline player).
- 🗣 Alexa voice assistant or built-in offline assistant.
For users who appreciate the classic design of the round watch, the Amazfit GTR series remains out of competition. They look like traditional mechanics, but hide a powerful computer inside. This makes them appropriate both in the gym and in a business meeting.
Software and compatibility
When choosing a gadget, it is important to consider which smartphone it will work with. Devices based on Wear OS (Mi Watch series) have restrictions when connecting to an iPhone (iOS). Functionality can be reduced, and some applications simply will not install. For Android owners, this is the most seamless integration option.
Proprietary models (Redmi, Amazfit) work equally well with both Android and iOS. The main management application is Mi Fitness or Zepp. It stores the entire activity history, adjusts the dials and updates the firmware of the device.
Settings menu: Connection → Adding a device → Finding new ones → Selecting a modelIt is important to update software regularly through the app. Manufacturers often release patches that improve pedometer accuracy or add new dials. Ignoring updates can lead to unstable Bluetooth connections.
⚠️ Warning: When changing your smartphone, remember to untie the clock in the app before connecting to a new phone, which will prevent conflicts of synchronization of health data.
What to do if your watch can’t see your phone?
Choice Criteria: What to look for in 2026
When buying, you need to start from use cases. If you're a professional athlete, you need GPS accuracy and multi-band navigation, and you need to be able to respond quickly to a message, and you need to be alerted, calendared and able to respond quickly to a message.
Silicone is good for sports, but leather or fluoro rubber looks better with a suit. Many modern Xiaomi models support standard-sized quick-removal straps, allowing you to change style according to mood.
Don't chase the maximum number of features if you don't plan to use them. Overpaying for an NFC that doesn't work in your area, or for an ECG sensor that you won't use, doesn't make sense. Better take a model with the best screen and battery.
- 📏 Size of the hull: 42-44 mm universal, 46+ mm can be large for a thin hand.
- 💾 Memory: Important if you plan to download music or cards.
- 🛡 Durability: Having Gorilla Glass or Sapphire Glass will protect against scratches.
☑️ Pre-purchase check
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I reply to WhatsApp messages from Xiaomi watch?
Does Xiaomi Watch Work with iPhone?
How often should you charge your smartwatch?
Can I swim in a Xiaomi watch?
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The perfect watch is a trade-off between the functionality of a smartphone and the autonomy of a classic: prioritize your apps or battery.
In conclusion, Xiaomi’s smartwatch selection in 2026 is a choice between ecosystem smartwatches for maximum integration with the digital world and energy-efficient health trackers. Both niches are brilliant examples that have long outperformed many of its eminent competitors in terms of performance. Weigh your needs, use our tips, and the gadget will be your faithful assistant for years to come.