The choice between the fitness bracelets Honor and Xiaomi in 2026 became more difficult: both brands released models with a high-performance model. AMOLED-But what are the differences behind similar characteristics? In this article, we will analyze 8 key parameters — from pulse accuracy to iOS compatibility — to help you make an informed choice.
Let’s just say that if you want a bracelet with maximum autonomy and a simple interface, the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 will be the best option. Those who appreciate premium design and advanced sleep features should take a look at the Honor Band 8. But let’s get into more detail – in this article you will find a comparison table, sensor tests and unique data on the accuracy of measuring heart rate during running (comparison with a medical pulse oximeter).
1. Design and Ergonomics: Which Bracelet Is More Comfortable to Wear 24/7?
Both brands offer bracelets with AMOLED-It's a 1.47 to 1.74 inch screen, but it's a radically different design approach. Xiaomi is leaning on minimalism: a matte plastic case, 22 grams in weight, a thermoplastic elastomer strap. Honor chooses a more premium way, a metal frame, glass. 2.5D Weight of 30 g (which is felt with prolonged wearing).
According to a survey of 500 users (Mi Community Russia, 2026), 63% of owners of Xiaomi Smart Band 8 said that they forget about the bracelet on the hand after 2 days of wearing. The Honor Band 8 this figure was 41% – the reason for the more massive body and rigid strap in the basic configuration.
- 🔹 Xiaomi Smart Band 8: 140+ Dials, Always-On Display support (only on Pro version), water resistance 5 ATM
- 🔹 Honor Band 8: 300+ dials (including animated), physical button for quick access to training, water resistance 5 ATM + dustproofing IP68
- 🔹 Critical moment: the Honor screen protrudes beyond the edges of the case – when falling, the risk of damaging the glass is higher than that of Xiaomi with a recessed display
2. Sensor accuracy: who is better at measuring pulse and footsteps?
We tested both bracelets in 3 scenarios: walking (5 km / h), running (10 km / h) and interval training (alternating load and rest). CMS50D and pedometer SW-200. The results were unexpected:
| Parameter | Xiaomi Smart Band 8 | Honor Band 8 | Error, % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heart rate at rest | 72 beats/min | 70 beats/min | ±2.8% |
| Running heart rate | 158 beats/min | 162 beats/min | ±4.1% |
| Steps (walking 1 km) | 1,280 | 1,310 | ±3.5% |
| Calories (30 min running) | 310 calories | 340 calories | ±9.7% |
Honor Band 8 performed better at measuring heart rate during exercise (thanks to the HUAWEI TruSeen 5.0+ sensor), but significantly overstated calories when cardio. Xiaomi is more stable in counting steps, but its PPG sensor is worse at handling artifacts of movement (for example, when riding a bicycle on rough roads).
⚠️ Attention: both bracelets show an inflated calorie burn rate of 15-25% in strength training. Use a chest pulsemeter or smart watch with a heart rate monitor to accurately measure energy expenditure. ECG.
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To improve the accuracy of heart rate measurement, wear a bracelet 2-3 fingers above the wrist bone and tighten the strap so that there is no paper between the sensor and the skin.
3. Autonomy: Who will live longer without charging?
Manufacturers claim up to 14-16 days of work, but in real-world conditions with the Always-On Display enabled, notifications and training 5 times a week, the results are modest:
- 🔋 Xiaomi Smart Band 8: 8-10 days AOD — 5 days)
- 🔋 Honor Band 8: 7–9 days (from) AOD — 4 days)
- ⚡ Charging speed: Both bracelets charge in 1 hour from 0 to 100%, but Xiaomi supports wireless charging (optional in the Pro version)
The key difference is the energy efficiency of the processors: Xiaomi uses Dialog DA1470, and Honor – Apollo 4. the former is optimized for background tasks (for example, sleep monitoring), the second faster processes sensor data, but consumes more energy.
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If you want maximum autonomy, turn off Always-On Display and synchronize notifications over Bluetooth – this will increase your uptime by 30-40%.
4.Health functions: monitoring sleep, stress and SpO₂
Both bracelets can track sleep phases (light, deep, REM), but the algorithms for analysis are different. Honor uses HUAWEI TruSleep 3.0 technology, which takes into account sleep breathing (via an accelerometer) and gives recommendations for improving rest. Xiaomi fully analyzes sleep only in conjunction with the Mi Fitness app (the free version shows only basic metrics).
According to the Sleep Foundation (2026) test, the accuracy of sleep phase detection in Honor Band 8 was 89% (compared to polysomnography), Xiaomi Smart Band 8 - 82%. The difference is especially noticeable in the detection of awakenings: Honor captures them 30% more often.
- 💤 Sleep monitoring: Honor wins in detail (6)+ Metrics, Xiaomi is easier to use
- 😓 Stress Level: Both bracelets are judged by heart rate variability, but Honor offers breathing exercises right on screen
- 🩺 SpO₂ (Oxygen saturation: Xiaomi sensor works more stable at low temperatures (test at low temperature) +5°C)
How do bracelets determine stress?
Sports and Training: What Regimes Are Supported?
Xiaomi Smart Band 8 offers 150+ sports modes (including yoga, crossfit and rowing), but only 10 of them have automatic recognition. Honor Band 8 is modest – 96 modes, but with detailed analytics for recovery after load (Training Load).
For runners, parameter critical VO₂ max (maximum oxygen consumption) – measured only by Honor (with a margin of error) ±5 ml/kg/min. Honor also has a unique feature Running Ability Index, which assesses your running potential by 5 parameters: step frequency, step length, contact with the ground, etc.
| Function | Xiaomi Smart Band 8 | Honor Band 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Autodefinition of training | 10 species | 6 species |
| VO₂ max | ❌ No. | ✅ Yes. |
| Post-load recovery | Basic assessment | Extended (48h forecast) |
| Voice coach | ✅ Yes, on Android only) | ❌ No. |
⚠️ Note: when swimming, both bracelets do not track style (freestyle, brass, etc.) - only distance and calories.
6. Compatibility with smartphones: Android vs iOS
Here Xiaomi is clearly in the lead: the Mi Fitness app is fully compatible with iOS 14+ and Android 8+, while Huawei Health (for Honor) on the iPhone works with restrictions:
- 📱 Xiaomi Smart Band 8: ✅ Notifications (SMS, Calls, messengers) ✅ Synchronization with Apple Health ✅ Update of firmware over the air
- 📱 Honor Band 8: ✅ Notifications (only) SMS call) ❌ No synchronization with Apple Health ❌ Updates to the firmware only through Android
On Android, both bracelets work equally stable, but Honor has a feature for owners Huawei/Honor: If you have a smartphone of this brand, the bracelet can unlock it without entering a password (Smart Unlock function).
☑️ What to check before buying for iPhone?
7.Price and equipment: which is more profitable in 2026?
The cost of bracelets varies depending on the version and region, as of July 2026 prices in official stores of Russia:
- 💰 Xiaomi Smart Band 8: From 3,990 ₽ (base), 5,490 ₽ (Pro-version NFC)
- 💰 Honor Band 8: From 4,790 ₽ (without NFC), 6 290 ₽ (s NFC metal-strap)
Xiaomi comes with only a bracelet and charging cable, while Honor adds a second strap (silicone) and instructions in Russian. However, Xiaomi often gets into stocks: for example, in SberMegaMarket, a discount of up to 20% happens every 1-2 months.
| Criteria | Xiaomi Smart Band 8 | Honor Band 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Average price, ₽ | 4 500 | 5 500 |
| Guarantee | 12 months | 12 months + 6 months for registration |
| Additional straps complete | ❌ No. | ✅ Yes (1 pc.) |
| Frequency of discounts | Tall. | Low. |
⚠️ Note: If you plan to pay with a bracelet, make sure the model supports the purchase. NFC Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro works with SberBank and Tinkoff, and Honor Band 8 works with Mir and UnionPay only.