Xiaomiβs smartwatch is no longer a luxury β itβs an affordable gadget that helps monitor health, manage notifications, and even replace a smartphone in some scenarios. But how do you choose the best model among dozens of options without overpaying for unnecessary features? If you have a budget of 5,000 rubles, it doesn't mean you have to sacrifice quality. In 2026, even in this segment, there are devices that can be used to make the most of the product. AMOLED-screen, GPS, Pressure measurement and autonomy up to 2 weeks.
We analyzed the current Xiaomi, Redmi and Mi Band models, weeded out outdated versions (such as the Mi Band 7 or Redmi Watch 3 Active, which are no longer relevant), and compiled a rating based on real user feedback. In this article, you will find not only a comparison of the characteristics, but also unique nuances of each model that are not talked about by sellers, for example, why the Xiaomi Watch 2 Neo is better for running than the Redmi Watch 4, despite the similar price, or how to circumvent the restriction on installing apps in the Mi Band 8 Pro.
Criteria for choosing a budget smart watch Xiaomi
Before you buy, determine what you need a watch for. If your primary goal is to monitor sleep and footsteps, it makes no sense to overpay for GPS or NFC, but for running or cycling, you can't do without a built-in navigator. Here are the key parameters to look at:
- π± Screen type: AMOLED (bright, saturated) vs. TFT (cheaper, but dimmer. budgeted up to 5,000β½ There are models AMOLED, But they're usually smaller diagonally.
- π Sports functions: number of training regimes (30 to 150)+), presence GPS (It is important to track the route accurately without a phone).
- π©Ί Medical sensors: pulse oximeter (SpOβ), pressure measurement (often approximate), stress tests. In budget models, data may differ from professional instruments on the computer. Β±10%.
- π Autonomy: 5 days (Xiaomi Watch 2 Neo) to 14 days (Redmi Watch 4) The more screen and sensors, the faster the battery goes down.
- π² Compatibility: All Xiaomi watches work with Android 6.0+ iOS 10+, But on iPhone, some features may be limited (e.g., quick responses to messages).
Note the belts: the set usually comes with silicone, but for allergic people it is better to buy a hypoallergenic option right away. Also check if the watch supports interchangeable dials - in budget models, the choice is often limited to 5-10 options.
Top.-5 Cheap Xiaomi smartwatches in the 2026 year
We have selected models that offer the best price/functional balance, all of which are officially sold in Russia, have Russian firmware and are supported by the branded Mi Fitness app (formerly Zepp Life), prices are current for June 2026 and can vary depending on the stock.
| Model | Price, β½ | Screen. | GPS | Autonomy | Better for you. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Mi Band 8 Pro | 3 990 | 1,74" AMOLED | β No. | 14 days | Sleep monitoring and basic fitness |
| Xiaomi Watch 2 Neo | 4 790 | 1,6" AMOLED | β There is. | 12 days | Running and cycling. |
| Redmi Watch 4 | 3 490 | 1,97" TFT | β No. | 14 days | Budget option with a large screen |
| Xiaomi Smart Band 8 | 2 790 | 1,62" AMOLED | β No. | 16 days | Minimalists and children |
| Redmi Watch 3 Active | 2 990 | 1,83" TFT | β No. | 12 days | Gift option |
Important: Prices are for basic versions (no NFC For example, the Xiaomi Watch 2 Neo with a premium belt. NFC is 800β½ This feature only works with bank cards of Chinese banks β in Russia it is useless.
π‘
If you need GPS for accurate route tracking, choose the Xiaomi Watch 2 Neo β the rest of the models do not have it.
A detailed review of the best models
Xiaomi Mi Band 8 Pro β the best balance of price and features
Price: ~3 990β½ | Ratings: 4.8/5
This is the most advanced version of the Mi Band lineup, which finally got a full rectangular screen (rather than a narrow stripe, as in previous generations).+ And it's a training regimen, including yoga, swimming, even boxing. SpOβ It works more accurately than Mi Band 7, and stress measurements now take into account heart rate variability (HRV).
The downside is that there is no built-in GPS, so you have to bring your phone to track your route accurately, and users also note that the touch screen sometimes doesnβt respond to wet fingers (like showering or exercising), but the autonomy is impressive: with an average load, it lasts for 10-12 days.
- β Pluses: π The longest holds charge in his class πββοΈ Protection 5ATM (swimable) π¨ 200+ dials (including animated dials)
- β Cons: π΅ No. GPS and NFC π No speaker (notifications only by vibration)
π‘
To extend the life of the Mi Band 8 Pro battery, turn off the automatic pulse measurement in the background. To do this, go to Settings β Heart Rate Rate Rate β Off.
Xiaomi Watch 2 Neo is the best choice for athletes
Price: ~4 790β½ | Ratings: 4.7/5
It is the only model in the budget under 5000.β½ built-in GPS, It's perfect for runners, cyclists and tourists, and it supports 5 satellite navigation systems (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo et al., so the route is more accurate than the competition, and there's a barometric altimeter for altitude measurement, useful for mountain trekking.
The AMOLED screen with a brightness of up to 600 nits reads well in the sun, and the aluminum alloy body makes the watch stronger than plastic counterparts. However, autonomy leaves much to be desired: with active use of GPS, it lasts for 2-3 days, without it β up to 12 days.
β οΈ Note: Some Xiaomi Watch 2 Neo games have a sleep data synchronization bug. If the watch doesn't record sleep phases, update the firmware via Mi Fitness β Device profile β Update of the PO.
Redmi Watch 4 is a big screen for a minimum price
Price: ~3 490β½ | Ratings: 4.5/5
If you want the maximum screen for the minimum amount of money, Redmi Watch 4 β Best choice. 1,97 Inches (more than the Apple Watch) SE!) permitting 390Γ450 It provides a comfortable reading of notifications, and the body is made of polycarbonate, making the watch light (only a lightweight one). 36 (d) but less premium in appearance.
The feature is the "Energy Saving" mode, which turns off all sensors except the pedometer and extends the autonomy to 20 days. TFT-screen-lose AMOLED in contrast, and the absence of GPS Makes the watch unsuitable for serious training.
How to turn on the hidden mode "Always on screen" in Redmi Watch 4?
Comparison with competitors: which is better β Xiaomi or other brands?
Budgeted to 5,000β½ Xiaomi has several strong competitors: Huawei Band 8, Amazfit GTS 4 Mini and Honor Band 6. Let's compare them on key parameters:
| Parameter | Xiaomi Mi Band 8 Pro | Huawei Band 8 | Amazfit GTS 4 Mini |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price, β½ | 3 990 | 4 290 | 4 590 |
| Screen. | 1,74" AMOLED | 1,47" AMOLED | 1,65" AMOLED |
| GPS | β No. | β No. | β There is. |
| Autonomy | 14 days | 14 days | 15 days |
| Unique chip. | 200+ dials | Skin temperature measurement | 97 training regimens |
Bottom Line: If you want GPS, take the Amazfit GTS 4 Mini, but its screen is smaller than the Xiaomi Watch 2 Neo. Huawei Band 8 is interesting temperature sensor, but in Russia it works unstable due to sanctions (problems with updates).
Compatible with your smartphone (Android/iOS)|The presence of Russian-language firmware|Guarantee from the official seller|Set (belts, charging cable)|Reviews of a particular party (screen marriages are possible)-->
Where to buy a cheap smart watch Xiaomi without risk?
Official sellers in Russia are SberMegaMarket, M. Video, Wildberries and Xiaomi Store. Avoid shopping on AliExpress and Ozon from unverified sellers: there is a high risk of getting a fake or a device with Chinese firmware (without Russian).
- π‘οΈ Warranty: Official dealers give 12 months, gray sellers - 0.
- π¦ Package: the box must have a watch, a charging cable (usually) USB-A β PIN) and documentation in Russian.
- π Returns: By law, you can return the watch within 14 days if it doesnβt fit, but only if the packaging and fillings are kept.
Prices in official stores are usually higher by 500-1000β½, But it's justified by the warranty and the absence of firmware issues. For example, the Xiaomi Watch 2 Neo on Wildberries can cost 4,790β½, A unofficial seller on Ozon - 4,200β½, But with the risk of getting a "gray" import.
β οΈ Note: If you are buying a watch with NFC (For example, Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro, note that in Russia this feature works only with World Pay and then not on all models.
Frequent problems and how to avoid them
Even Xiaomiβs best budget smartwatches are not without their drawbacks, and here are some of the most common user complaints and ways to address them:
- The reason is: active use of GPS or background pulse measurement. Solution: turn off automatic heart rate monitoring in the settings or reduce the brightness of the screen.
- The reason: an outdated version of the Mi Fitness app or conflict with other fitness trackers (like Google Fit) Solution: reinstall the app and give all permissions in the phone's settings.
- The screen does not respond to touches Reason: moisture hits under the glass or software failure Solution: Dry the clock 24 hours in rice or reset the settings through Mi Fitness β Device β Reset.
- Improper pulse/pressure readings: loosely attached to the wrist or movement during measurement. Solution: tighten the strap and sit still for 2-3 minutes before measurement.
If the watch stops turning on after the update, try a forced reset: press the physical button (if any) for 15 seconds. 90% of the time, this helps bring the device back to life.