Xiaomi Mi Band 4 or 5: Which fitness bracelet is best to buy today?

Choosing between the Xiaomi Mi Band 4 and Mi Band 5 is a classic dilemma for those looking to buy an inexpensive yet functional fitness bracelet. Both models remain popular even years after their release, but each has its own strengths and weaknesses. If you are looking for a device to track activity, sleep and notifications, this article will help you figure out which version is right for you.

On the one hand, the Mi Band 5 offers improved display, more exercise modes and advanced health monitoring features. On the other hand, the Mi Band 4 is still relevant due to its low price, reliability and time-tested stability. We tested both models, reviewed user reviews and specs to give an objective answer to the question: which is better - Mi Band 4 or Mi Band 5 in 2026?

In this comparison, you'll find:

• 🔍 Detailed comparison of technical characteristics in the table
• 📊 Analysis of key differences: screen, battery, sensors, software
• 💰 Current prices and price/quality ratio
• ⚠️ Warnings about possible problems of each model
• 🏆 Recommendations for selection for specific tasks

1. Design and Ergonomics: Which is more convenient in everyday use?

Both models retain Xiaomi’s signature minimalist design, but there are nuances. The Mi Band 4 has a slightly convex body with a physical button under the screen, while the Mi Band 5 has a streamlined shape and touch button. The weight difference is minimal (about 1 gram), but with prolonged wear, the Mi Band 5 subjectively seems more comfortable due to rounded edges.

The important difference is the strap material. The basic Mi Band 4 comes with a standard stiff silicone strap, while the Mi Band 5 has a softer and hypoallergenic material (according to the manufacturer), which is relevant for users with sensitive skin or those who wear the bracelet around the clock. Both options support interchangeable straps 18 mm wide, but for the Mi Band 5, the choice of accessories is wider.

• 🔹 Mi Band 4: physical button, standard silicone, weight 22.1g
• 🔹 Mi Band 5: touch button, soft silicone, weight 21.5 g, magnetic charging
• 🔹 Both: waterproof 5 ATM (You can swim, replaceable straps

⚠️ Note: When buying the Mi Band 4, check the configuration - in some batches (especially with AliExpress) you can get low-quality straps with a sharp chemical smell.

2. Screen: AMOLED vs AMOLED - why is the difference noticeable?

Both models are equipped AMOLED-The displays, but the Mi Band 5 screen 20% more (1.1" against 0.95") and has a higher level of brightness (up to) 450 baldness 400 thread at Mi Band 4). Permission has grown with 120×240 before 126×294 It's made the picture clearer, especially when you display text, but the difference is only noticeable when you compare it directly -- in everyday use, both screens look good.

The key improvement in the Mi Band 5 is dynamic dials. While the Mi Band 4 limited animation to simple transitions, the fifth version supports smooth animations (such as moving clouds or running string).

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To extend the life of the Mi Band 5, turn off the Always-on Display feature in the settings (Screen → Display Mode) and this will increase the autonomy by 20-30%.

3. Functionality: What does each model do?

Here Mi Band 5 takes off with an updated heart rate sensor (PPG) and add a sensor SpO₂ This is a new way to measure blood oxygen saturation, and this one has become particularly relevant since the pandemic. COVID-19, The accuracy of the home devices is still in question (the error is not clear). ±The fifth version also includes a female cycle and an extended analysis of sleep phases (including naps).

However, the Mi Band 4 is not so far behind: it supports the same 11 sports modes (running, cycling, swimming, etc.), call/message notifications and music management. SpO₂ And it's less accurate sleep monitoring, but Mi Band 4 has a little bit of sleep monitoring. NFC version NFC The Mi Band 5 is available only in Chinese (for international market) NFC removed).

• 🩺 Mi Band 5: SpO₂, improved PPG, Stress analysis, female cycle
• 🏃 Mi Band 4: NFC (In a separate version, basic sleep monitoring
• 📱 Both: Notifications, Music Management, 5 ATM, alarm-clock

⚠️ Attention: Sensor SpO₂ Mi Band 5 It only works manually (no automatic measurement in a dream like in the Mi Band). 6/7). For constant monitoring of oxygen in the blood will require a bracelet generation.

4. Autonomy: Who holds the charge longer?

Officials say that the Mi Band 4 work-in 20 Days on a single charge, and Mi Band 5 — before 14. In practice, the difference is smaller: when used actively (notification, sleep monitoring, exercise) both models require recharging each time. 7-10 But the Mi Band. 5 discharges faster due to brighter screen and background measurements SpO₂ (if included).

The Mi Band 5 is a big plus, magnetic charging. The Mi Band 4 uses a connector that gets loose over time, and the fifth version just puts the bracelet to the dock. It's the same full charge time, about 2 hours, and both devices use proprietary cables, so losing charge can be a problem.

5. Software and compatibility

Both models work with Mi Fit (or Zepp Life in the newer versions), but the Mi Band 5 has more modern software that supports widgets on the home screen, such as adding weather, calendar or activity statistics directly to the dial. Mi Band 4 does not have this feature - all data is opened through the menu.

In terms of compatibility, there is no difference: both bracelets work with Android 5.0+ and iOS 10.0+. However, iPhone owners may face limitations: some features are not available on iOS (for example, quick responses to messages). Mi Band 5 supports air updates (OTA), while for Mi Band 4 firmware updates have to be installed manually via PC.

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If you want to integrate with the Xiaomi ecosystem (smart home, speakers), choose the Mi Band 5 – it is better synced with other devices of the brand.

6.Price and price/quality ratio in 2026

At the time of writing (2026), model prices vary widely:

• 💰 Xiaomi Mi Band 4: from 1,500 to 2,500 rubles (depending on the configuration)
• 💰 Xiaomi Mi Band 5: 2,500 to 3,500 rubles

The difference of 1,000 rubles is justified if you need it. SpO₂, But if the main tasks are tracking steps, sleep and notifications, the Mi Band 4 remains a bargain, especially for those who plan to wear the bracelet only during the day or do sports without professional exertion.

On the secondary market (Avito, Yula) Mi Band 4 can be found for 800-1 200 rubles, but the risk of running into a fake or worn-out battery is high. Mi Band 5 in the used state rarely drops below 1,800 rubles, which makes the new version more attractive.

7. Who will fit Mi Band 4 and who will fit Mi Band 5?

Choose the Xiaomi Mi Band 4 if:

• 🔑 You need a version of the C. NFC (Available only in Mi Band 4 NFC Edition)

Choose the Xiaomi Mi Band 5 if:

• 📱 Support for widgets and dynamic dials is important

FAQ: Frequent questions about Mi Band 4 and 5