What smart bracelet Xiaomi is better to buy in 2026: comparison of models and tips for choosing

Choosing a smart bracelet from Xiaomi is not an easy task: the brand offers more than 10 models in the Mi Band, Redmi Watch and Xiaomi Watch lines, which differ not only in design, but also in the set of functions. Some devices are aimed at athletes with advanced training analytics, others at users who need basic notifications and sleep monitoring. In this article, we will analyze the key differences between current models of 2023-2026, compare them by 15 parameters and help determine which Xiaomi bracelet is best for you.

It is important to consider that even budget bracelets Mi Band today are able to measure the level of oxygen in the blood (SpO2), monitor stress and female cycle, and flagship models Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro are equipped with GPS and support for eSIM. At the same time, the price difference between the most affordable and top model can reach 10,000 rubles.

Key criteria for choosing a smart bracelet Xiaomi

Before comparing specific models, determine what tasks you need the bracelet for. Here are 5 main scenarios that will help narrow the search range:

  • ๐Ÿƒ Sports and fitness: you need a precise pulse meter, GPS for running, training analytics and water resistance.
  • ๐Ÿ’ค Sleep and health monitoring: sensors are important SpO2, tracking sleep phases, reminders of inactivity.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Notifications and smart functions: support for messengers, music management, NFC pay.
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Autonomy: if you do not want to charge the bracelet more than 1 time a week, pay attention to the capacity of the battery.
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Budget: Xiaomi bracelets cost from 2,500 to 20,000 rubles - the price depends on the materials, display and chipset.

For example, for running on the street is suitable Xiaomi Watch S3 built-in GPS and 5ATM, For office use, the Mi Band 8C is sufficient. AMOLED-If you want maximum autonomy, look for the Redmi Watch 3 Active, which lasts up to 12 days without recharging.

๐Ÿ“Š Why do you plan to use a smart bracelet?
Sport and training
Monitoring of sleep and health
Notifications and calls
Payment through NFC
Just for beauty.

Comparison top-5 Xiaomi bracelets 2026: feature-sheet

We've selected the top 5 models that are relevant for early 2026, and in the table below, we've got key technical parameters that will help you quickly compare your devices against the main criteria. Pay attention to the GPS, NFC and SpO2 columns, which are often the most important features to choose from.

ModelScreen.GPSNFCSpO2Water protectionAutonomyPrice, โ‚ฝ
Mi Band 81.62" AMOLEDโŒ (phone-only)โŒโœ…5 ATM16 days3 500โ€“4 200
Mi Band 8 Pro1.74" AMOLEDโœ… (built-in)โŒโœ…5 ATM14 days5 500โ€“6 500
Redmi Watch 3 Active1.83" TFTโŒโŒโœ…5 ATM12 days2 800โ€“3 500
Xiaomi Watch S31.43" AMOLEDโœ… (multisystem)โœ…โœ…5 ATM15 days12 000โ€“14 000
Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro1.43" AMOLEDโœ… (+GLONASS)โœ… (eSIM)โœ…5 ATM7 days18 000โ€“20 000

Note: only models marked Pro in the title have built-in GPS, and NFC for contactless payments supports only Xiaomi Watch S3 and Watch 2 Pro. If you need accurate geolocation without a phone (for example, for marathon races), bracelets series Mi Band will not work โ€“ they use GPS smartphone.

Mi Band 8 vs Mi Band 8 Pro: Which is Best and Who is Best

The Mi Band 8 is the most popular bracelet in Xiaomi, thanks to its price-to-function ratio, but there are critical differences between the standard and the Pro versions that are worth considering:

  • ๐Ÿ“ GPS: Mi Band 8 Pro has a built-in chip GPS, It's not in the base model, which means that you have to bring your phone to track your running or cycling route.
  • ๐Ÿ–ฅ๏ธ Screen: The Pro version has a larger display (1.74" vs. 1.62") and supports Always-On Display (constantly active screen).
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Autonomy: Despite the more advanced filling, the Mi Band 8 Pro runs 2 days less due to energy consumption GPS-module.
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Price: The difference between the models is ~2,000 rubles if you don't need it. GPS, overpaying doesn't make sense.

The Mi Band 8 is ideal for those who want a basic fitness tracker with notifications, sleep monitoring and SpO2. The Pro version will suit runners, cyclists and those who work outdoors without a phone. Note that both models do not support NFC for payment โ€“ this feature can only be found in the Xiaomi Watch.

๐Ÿ’ก

If you only need GPS to run around the stadium or in the gym, the Mi Band 8 is cheaper and holds the charge longer. To track routes in nature, use the Pro version.

Redmi Watch 3 Active: budget version with a large screen

Redmi Watch 3 Active is the most affordable bracelet in the Xiaomi line (from 2 800 rubles), but with one of the largest screens (1.83"). Despite the low price, the device received:

  • ๐Ÿฉบ 100+ Exercise regimens (including yoga, swimming and rope).
  • ๐Ÿ’ง Protection 5 ATM โ€” You can swim in the pool or in the rain.
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Autonomy up to 12 days (with moderate use).
  • ๐ŸŽจ 200+ dials to choose from (including animated ones).

However, there are also significant disadvantages:

  • ๐Ÿšซ No built-in GPS and NFC.
  • ๐Ÿ“ต Screen. TFT (not AMOLED), So the colors are less saturated and the viewing angles are worse.
  • โš ๏ธ Heart rate sensor less accurate than Mi Band 8.

This bracelet is suitable for those who are looking for an inexpensive gadget for everyday use: notifications, pedometer, basic sleep monitoring. For serious sports, you should consider the Mi Band 8 Pro or Xiaomi Watch S3.

How is the Redmi Watch 3 Active different from the Redmi Watch 3?
The main difference is in the materials of the body and strap: the Active version has a plastic body (the standard model has a metal one), and the strap is made of cheaper silicone, and the Redmi Watch 3 also has a height sensor (barometer), which is not available in the Active version.

Xiaomi Watch S3 and Watch 2 Pro: smart watches for advanced users

If you need not just a fitness tracker, but a full-fledged smart watch with advanced features, pay attention to the Xiaomi Watch S3 and Watch 2 Pro models.

  • ๐Ÿ“ถ eSIM support (in Watch 2 Pro) that allows you to call without a phone.
  • ๐ŸŒ Multisystem GPS (including GLONASS, Galileo, BDS).
  • ๐Ÿ’ณ NFC Contactless payments (works with Mi Pay and Google Pay).
  • ๐ŸŽง Managing Music and In-Mention Memory for Tracks.

However, there are also disadvantages:

  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Less autonomy: Watch 2 Pro holds a charge for only 7 days (vs 15 for Watch) S3).
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ High price: from 12 000 rubles for S3 Up to 20,000 for the Watch 2 Pro.
  • โš ๏ธ Weight: 50โ€“60 grams (vs. 20-30 for Mi Band bracelets).

Xiaomi Watch S3 โ€” The Watch 2 Pro is the best choice for those who want a balance between functionality and price, and it is suitable for those who are willing to overpay for eSIM, premium materials (sapphire glass, ceramic case) and advanced health analytics (for example, for example, for premium materials, PPG-blood pressure gauge).

๐Ÿ’ก

If you choose between the Xiaomi Watch S3 and the Watch 2 Pro, pay attention to the wrist size.The Watch 2 Pro has a body diameter of 47mm and can look bulky on a lean hand.

Which bracelet Xiaomi is better to buy: the final rating 2026

Based on the analysis of characteristics, user reviews and price/quality ratio, we have compiled a rating of the best Xiaomi bracelets for different tasks:

  1. Best Budget Option: Redmi Watch 3 Active (2,800โ€“3,500) โ‚ฝ) โ€” big screen, 100+ training regimes, water protection.
  2. Optimal for price and functionality: Mi Band 8 (3500-4200) โ‚ฝ) โ€” AMOLED-display, accurate pulsemeter, 16 days of autonomy.

If your budget is limited to 4,000 rubles, the Mi Band 8 is the best choice for most users. Those who are engaged in running or cycling should pay extra for the Mi Band 8 Pro. Well, if you want a full-fledged smartwatch with calls and payments, consider the Xiaomi Watch S3 or Watch 2 Pro.

Compare prices in official stores (Mi Store, SberMegaMarket, Wildberries)

Make sure that the model supports Russian in firmware

Check compatibility with your smartphone (Android/iOS)

Pay attention to the type of strap (silicone/skin/metal)

Review the accuracy of sensors (especially the pulse meter and SpO2)-->

Common Mistakes in Choosing and Using Xiaomi Bracelets

Many users are frustrated with buying because of poor expectations or misuse, and here are 5 common mistakes to avoid:

โš ๏ธ Note: Mi Band and Redmi Watch bracelets are not designed for diving or swimming in hot water (sauna, bath).Despite protection 5 ATM, Long-term exposure to steam can damage seals.

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Unrenewed firmware: Many features (such as stress tracking or female cycle tracking) only appear after an update.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ iPhone incompatibility: On iOS, some features (like quick notification responses) may not work properly.
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Frequent charging: If the bracelet is discharged in 2-3 days, it is likely that the Always-On Display is turned on or data is synchronized too often.
  • ๐Ÿฉบ Inaccurate pulse readings: The sensor only works properly when it is tightly attached to the wrist. Wear the bracelet 2-3 fingers above the bone without tightening too tightly.
  • ๐Ÿ’ณ Problems with NFC: Contactless payments work only with a tied card in Mi Pay. Not all banks support this system - check in advance.

Another important point is that Xiaomi bracelets are not certified as medical devices, and data on oxygen levels (SpO2), blood pressure or stress are informative and cannot be used to diagnose diseases.

โš ๏ธ Note: When buying a bracelet on marketplaces (AliExpress, Pandao), there is a risk of getting a fake. Original devices are sold only in official Xiaomi stores or from authorized dealers. Check for a hologram on the package and a serial number in the application.

Can I swim with a Xiaomi bracelet?
Yes, all modern models (Mi Band 8, Redmi Watch 3 Active, Xiaomi Watch S3) have 5 ATM protection, which allows you to swim in the pool or in the rain.
Which Xiaomi bracelet is best for a woman?
For women, models with a menstrual tracking function and a low weight are suitable: Mi Band 8 (light, 14 grams, there is a female cycle in the app); Xiaomi Watch S3 (stylish design, 18 mm straps, NFC support); Also pay attention to the color options: Mi Band 8 has versions with a pink or lavender strap.
How long does the battery in Xiaomi bracelets last?
Battery life depends on the model and intensity of use: Mi Band 8: 3-5 years when properly operated (capacity 190 mAh); Redmi Watch 3 Active: 2-4 years (capacity 260 mAh); Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro: 2-3 years (capacity 470 mAh, but more energy-consuming display). If the bracelet began to discharge in 1-2 days, this is a sign of battery wear - it can be replaced at the service center.
Can I change the strap on the Xiaomi bracelet?
Yes, all models have removable straps. Standard dimensions: Mi Band 8: 22 mm (fit straps from Mi Band 7); Redmi Watch 3 Active: 20 mm. Xiaomi Watch S3/2 Pro: 22 mm (compatible with straps for Apple Watch 42/44 mm). Original straps cost from 500 to 1,500 rubles, but you can find analogues from third-party manufacturers cheaper.
How to sync Xiaomi bracelet with phone?
To sync: Download Mi Fitness (Android) or Zepp Life (iOS). Sign up or log in to Xiaomi. Turn on Bluetooth on your phone and add the device via Add Device โ†’ Bracelet. Follow the on-screen instructions (may require a firmware update). If the bracelet doesn't connect, try: Reboot your phone and bracelet. Remove the device from the list of conjugated in Bluetooth settings. Update the Mi Fitness app to the latest version.