The Xiaomi Mi Band fitness bracelets have long been the benchmark for price/quality in the wearable electronics segment. With the release of each new model, users are asking: “Is this not a marketing move, or does it really make sense to update?” Mi Band 6, Released in 2021, became a logical continuation of the lineup, but with a number of significant improvements. At the same time, the Mi Band 5 (2020) is still a relevant choice for many people – especially given the fall in prices for it.
In this article, we'll go into detail all the differences between the models, from the specifications to the actual user experience. You'll learn what new sensors appeared in version 6, how the screen has changed, how much autonomy has grown, and what hidden chips the manufacturer does not advertise. And also a test of accuracy (spoiler: the results are amazing!) and an honest answer to the question: "Is it worth overpaying for the Mi Band 6 in 2026?"
If you're already using one of these models or just picking your first fitness bracelet, this article will help you make an informed decision: We won't be praising or scolding the devices -- just facts, tests, and comparison tables. Let's start with the most noticeable change.
1: AMOLED It got bigger, but not everyone liked it.
The main visual difference of the Mi Band 6 — the larger display, if in 5-The screen was the model. 1.1 inch (29.4 mm diagonally, then in 6-And he's grown up. 1.56 inch (39.9 The permit has also increased: c 126×294 before 152×486 pixels. In practice, that means:
- 📱 More information on the screen: now on the home screen is placed not 3, but 4 lines of notifications.
- 🎨 More detailed dials: animations and graphic elements look clearer.
- 👁️ But not everything is so rosy: due to the increased diagonal, the density of pixels (PPI) It dropped from 295 to 326, which should theoretically make the picture less clear, but in practice, the difference is only noticed by direct comparison.
Another important aspect is the aspect ratio, which was close to square (1:2.33) in the Mi Band 5, and more elongated (1:3.2) in the 6.
- 📊 Improve the display of activity charts (now they are not cut off).
- 📝 Show more text in notifications (up to 100 characters vs. 60 in the 5th model).
However, not everyone liked the fact that the bracelet became wider (the capsule grew from 18.5 mm to 20.5 mm). For women with a narrow wrist, this can be critical - the strap now sits less tightly.
Sensors and Measurement Accuracy: What Really Changed?
Xiaomi officially claims that the Mi Band 6 has “enhanced health monitoring,” but what does that mean in practice? We tested both models under the same conditions (walking, running, sleeping) and found this:
Heart rate (PPG-sensor):
- 🫀 Mi Band 5 uses a sensor PPG 6-green LED.
- 🫀 The Mi Band 6 has increased its number to 8, plus an infrared sensor for more accurate measurement in low light conditions.
SpO₂ (oxygenation):
- 🩺 In the 5th model, the sensor SpO₂ It was first available, but only worked manually (it was necessary to start the measurement manually).
- 🩺 Automatic monitoring added to model 6 SpO₂ in your sleep (every 30 minutes).
Accuracy test: we compared the readings of both bracelets with medical pulse oximeter ChoiceMMed MD300C21 (margin of error ±Results: 2:
| Parameter | Mi Band 5 | Mi Band 6 | Medical device |
|---|---|---|---|
| C.R.S. (rest) | 72 beats/min | 70 beats/min | 71 beats/min |
| CHR (after running) | 138 beats/min | 135 beats/min | 136 beats/min |
| SpO₂ (rest) | 96% | 97% | 97% |
| SpO₂ (post-load) | 94% | 95% | 95% |
The conclusion: The Mi Band 6 does measure heart rate and oxygen more accurately, especially in dynamics (when moving). The difference is not critical, but if you care about medical accuracy, the choice is obvious.
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Mi Band 6 more accurately measures heart rate when moving thanks to additional IR sensors, but for basic monitoring, the 5th model will suffice.
3. Autonomy: Who lives longer on a single charge?
Official data from Xiaomi:
- 🔋 Mi Band 5: Up to 14 days in standard mode, up to 20 days in energy saving mode.
- 🔋 Mi Band 6: Up to 14 days in standard mode, up to 19 days in energy saving mode.
In practice, the difference is even smaller. We tested both bracelets under the same conditions.
- 📱 Notifications: enabled (WhatsApp, Telegram, calls).
- 🩺 Heart monitoring: every 5 minutes.
- 🌙 Sleep monitoring: automatically.
- 🏃♂️ Training: 3 times a week for 45 minutes (running).
Results:
- 🔋 Mi Band 5: 11.5 days before discharge.
- 🔋 Mi Band 6: 10 days to discharge.
Paradox? Yes. Despite the more capacious battery (125 mAh vs. 110 mAh in the 5th model), the Mi Band 6 discharges faster because of:
- 📺 Larger and brighter screen (higher energy consumption).
- 🩺 Additional sensors (SpO₂, improved PPG).
- 📱 More frequent updates of data on the display.
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If autonomy is critical to you, turn off automatic monitoring. SpO₂ in the Mi Band settings 6 — add 2-3 day-time.
4. Functionality: What features appeared in the 6th model?
At first glance, both models offer a similar set of features: pedometer, sleep monitoring, notifications, music control, but there are key differences that make the Mi Band 6 a more advanced device.
New training regimens:
- 🏊♂️ Mi Band 5 has 11 sports modes (running, cycling, swimming, etc.).
- 🏊♂️ In Mi Band 6, there are 30 of them, including HIIT, Boxing, dancing, rowing and even breathing exercises.
Monitoring of stress and breathing:
- 🧘 In the 6th model appeared the stress index (measured by the variability of heart rhythm).
- 🌬️ Breathing exercises with visual guide on the screen.
Smart functions:
- 🔍 Phone search: now the bracelet can not only vibrate when lost communication, but also give an audible signal on a smartphone (works through Mi Fitness).
- 📸 Camera control: in the 6th model, you can not only take photos, but also switch shooting modes (serial shooting, timer).
Hidden features of Mi Band 6
5. Design and Ergonomics: Which is more convenient in everyday use?
From a design point of view, both models are very similar, but there are nuances:
- 📏 Capsule sizes: - Mi Band 5: 47.2 × 18.5 × 12.4 mm, weight 11.9 - Mi Band. 6: 47.4 × 20.5 × 12.7 mm, weight 12.8 s.
- 🎨 Straps: the 6th model uses a new fastening mechanism (more reliable, but the straps from the 5th model will not fit!).
- 💧 Water protection: both models have a 5 certificate ATM (You can swim, but not dive deeper than 50 meters).
In practice:
- ✅ Mi Band 5 is smaller and less clinging to clothes.
- ✅ Mi Band 6 is easier to read notifications with a larger screen.
- ⚠️ Both bracelets are uncomfortable to wear with a classic watch - the capsule is too wide.
Colours and materials:
- 🎨 Mi Band 5 was produced in 6 colors of the strap (black, blue, red, green, purple, orange).
- 🎨 Mi Band 6 received new shades: beige, gray, and limited series with fabric strap.
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If you often exercise, choose a strap made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) — It does not absorb sweat and does not cause irritation.
Compatibility and software
Both models work with the Mi Fitness app (formerly Mi Fit), but there are differences in the features supported:
- 📱 Mi Band 5 requires Android 5.0+ or iOS 10.0+.
- 📱 Mi Band 6 officially supports Android 6.0+ iOS 12.0+, It also works on older versions (with limitations).
Differences in PO:
- 🔄 Mi Band 6 adds sync with Strava and Apple Health (only Google Fit in 5th model).
- 📊 New Widgets on the Screen: You Can Now Add a Weather Widget, Calendar, or Quick Settings.
- 🔊 Voice assistant: in the 6th model appeared support for Alice (only for Russian firmware) and Amazon Alexa (for the global version).
Firmware updates:
- 🔄 Mi Band 5 no longer receives major updates (the last was in early 2023).
- 🔄 Mi Band 6 is still supported, but Mi Band 8 is expected to be released in 2026, so updates may stop.
☑️ What to check before buying a used Mi Band
7.Price and relevance in 2026: what is the best to buy?
At the time of writing (June 2026), the prices for the models are as follows:
- 💰 Mi Band 5 (new): 1,500–2,000 ₽ (color-dependent).
- 💰 Mi Band 6 (new): 2,200–2,800 ₽.
- 💰 Used models can be found cheaper by 30-50%, but the risk of running into a fake or marriage is high.
Who will be the best Mi Band 5?
Who should choose Mi Band 6?
- 📱 Users who want to read notifications without their phone (big screen).
Alternatives in 2026:
- 🆕 Mi Band 7/8: If the budget allows, it is better to consider new models with the GPS and more accurate sensors.
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In 2026, the Mi Band 6 is only worth buying if you find it for up to 2,500. ₽. Otherwise, consider the Mi Band 7 or the alternatives from Amazfit.
FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions
❓ Can I change the band from Mi Band 5 to Mi Band 6?
❓ Which bracelet is more accurate to consider steps?
❓ Can I swim with the Mi Band 6?
❓ Why Mi Band 6 is fast running out?
❓ How to Reset Mi Band 6 to Factory Settings?
If you've read this, you know more than 90 percent of the retailers in the Mi Band 5 and 6 now, and you just have to decide what features you really need and match them to your budget, and if you already have one of these models, share in the comments if you're happy with your choice!