The Xiaomi Mi Band fitness bracelets have long been benchmarks for price-performance. With each new version, users are wondering: should we upgrade? Mi Band 5 is no exception — it brought noticeable improvements, but does it maintain continuity with the Mi Band 4? This article will help to understand which changes are really important and which are just marketing tricks.
We analyzed both models on 12 criteria, from design and screen to sensor accuracy and third-party compatibility, and focused on the unique feature of the Mi Band 5, magnetic charging that dramatically changes the experience of use compared to version 4, and you will learn which ad chips are useless in practice and which are really simplified.
If you're faced with a choice between these two bracelets, or just want to understand what the new model is doing, this analysis will help you make an informed decision. Spoiler: for some users, upgrading to Version 5 will be justified, and for others it will be a waste of money.
1. Design and Ergonomics: Why is the Mi Band 5 more convenient?
At first glance, both models look almost identical: the same minimalistic body made of matte plastic, a removable module with a screen and a silicone strap. However, on closer inspection, it becomes clear that the Mi Band 5 has received several important improvements:
Weight and dimensions remained virtually unchanged (22.9 g for version 5 vs 22.1 g for version 4), but the shape of the body has become more streamlined, the bracelet now clings less to clothes and less often touches the edges of the table when working at the computer, but the strap has undergone noticeable changes:
- 🔹 New fastening mechanism – metal pins replaced by more reliable plastic latches, which are less likely to break with frequent removals.
- 🔹 More holes to adjust - now even owners of very thin wrists can fit the bracelet to size.
- 🔹 Strap material – Mi Band 5 uses softer silicone with antibacterial coating (according to Xiaomi).
Another key difference is magnetic charging. In the Mi Band 4, you had to take the capsule out of the strap to connect the cable, which eventually led to wear and tear of the contacts. In version 5, you just need to attach the charging cable to the back of the bracelet, the magnets will align themselves, and not only is it more convenient, but it also prolongs the life of the device.
2.Screen: AMOLED stayed but got better
Both models are equipped AMOLED-It’s a touch-controlled display, but the Mi Band 5 has a few important improvements:
| Parameter | Mi Band 4 | Mi Band 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Diagonal | 0.95" | 1.1" |
| Permission | 120×240 | 126×294 |
| Brightness (max.) | 400 nits | 450 nits |
| Color scheme | 16.7 million colors | 16.7 million colors + Day/Night modes |
In practice, the difference in diagonal (+0.15) seems small, but thanks to the increased resolution, the text on the Mi Band 5 looks clearer. But the automatic brightness adjustment (which was not available in version 4) is a really useful innovation.
Another improvement is the animation of the dials, which are smoother in the Mi Band 5, and the number of themes available has increased from 77 to 100+, while users can download additional dials through the Mi Fit app (more on this in the software section).
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To save battery power, turn off the dial animations in the bracelet settings (Screen → Animation Effects → Off).
Sensors and Measurement Accuracy: What Has Changed?
Both models feature an optical heart rate sensor, an accelerometer and a gyroscope, but Xiaomi has refined its data processing algorithms in the Mi Band 5.
- 📊 The frequency of pulse measurements in 5-The sensor is activated more often (each version). 1-2 minutes 5 minutely 4-This improves accuracy, but slightly reduces battery life.
- 🏃 Activity tracking – new sports (yoga, rope, dancing) have been added, and algorithms for recognizing steps and distance traveled have become more accurate. 10-15% (GSMArena test).
- 😴 Sleep monitoring – Mi Band 5 has an evaluation REM-A phase (REM) that didn't exist in version 4, and now the sleep reports are more detailed.
- 🩺 SpO₂ (Oxygen saturation – a new feature in Version 5 that is not available in Mi Band 4, useful for assessing overall health, especially in a pandemic.
But it's not all that rosy. SpO₂ In the Mi Band 5, there is a margin of error of up to 2% (compared to medical devices), so it can only be considered indicative. It is also worth noting that to accurately measure oxygen in the blood, the bracelet must fit tightly to the wrist, which is not always convenient during sleep.
How to check the accuracy of the sensor SpO₂?
Another caveat is water resistance: Both models are 5 ATM certified (withstanding a 50m dive), but the Mi Band 5 has improved sealing of the charging connector, which reduces the risk of moisture when swimming in the pool or in the rain.
4.Autonomy: Why is the Mi Band 5 discharged faster?
Official data says the Mi Band 4 lasts up to 20 days on a single charge, while the Mi Band 5 runs up to 14.
- 🔋 Battery capacity: 135 mAh for 5 vs 135 mAh for 4 (not changed!) Reduced battery life due to more energy-intensive screen and frequent sensor measurements.
- ⚡ Fast charging – Mi Band 5 adds 2W charging support (vs 1W in version 4) and now charges in 1.5 hours instead of 2.
- 📴 Energy consumption in standby mode – increased by ~25% due to background sensor operation SpO₂ and frequent screen updates.
In practice, when you use it actively (notifications, sleep monitoring, exercise), the Mi Band 5 lasts 7-10 days, and the Mi Band 4 - 10-14.
☑️ How to extend the Mi Band 5 battery life
An important nuance: magnetic charging in the Mi Band 5 can eventually lose contact reliability due to dust or sweat deposits. To avoid this, wipe the back of the bracelet with alcohol wipes every 2-3 weeks.
5. Software and compatibility
Both models work with the Mi Fit app (or Zepp in some regions), but the Mi Band 5 has a few exclusive features:
- 📱 PAI (Personal Activity Intelligence is a unique algorithm that measures your activity during the week and gives personalized recommendations.
- 🎵 Music control – you can now switch tracks directly from the bracelet (in version 4, this was not available).
- 📸 Remote camera shutter – bracelet can serve as a remote for taking photos on a smartphone (useful for selfies or group shots).
- 🔄 Automatic change of dials – you can customize different themes for day and night.
However, there are limitations. For example, the Mi Band 5 does not support third-party firmware (unlike the 4th version, which has custom firmware with advanced features), and the 5th model removed support for NFC in the basic version (it remained only in the NFC version, which is more expensive).
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If you want to be compatible with Android Auto or contactless payments, choose Mi Band 5 NFC. The regular version does not have these features.
As for notifications, Mi Band 5 has made them more informative: now the screen displays not only the name of the sender, but also a fragment of text (up to 120 characters vs 60 in the 4th version), and the ability to quickly respond to messages (although only template phrases).
6.Price and feasibility of the upgrade
At the time of the Mi Band release 5 cost 30-40% more expensive than its predecessor, but now the price difference has decreased 10-15%. Current prices (by 2026 year):
| Model | Price (base) | Price (NFC) | Where to buy more profitable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Band 4 | ~1 500 ₽ | ~1 800 ₽ | AliExpress, local sales |
| Mi Band 5 | ~1 800 ₽ | ~2 200 ₽ | Official Xiaomi stores |
Should you upgrade from Mi Band 4 to Mi Band 5? The answer depends on your needs.
- ✅ It's worth updating if:
- ❌ It is not necessary to update if:
If you're choosing between these models from scratch, the Mi Band 5 is definitely preferable -- the price difference is small and the improvements are noticeable. But if you already have the Mi Band 4 and it works properly, there's no point in upgrading it, except for the sake of the upgrade. SpO₂ magnetically charged.
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Before buying, check the bracelet's compatibility with your smartphone.The Mi Band 5 officially supports Android 5.0+ and iOS 10.0+, but some features (like quick answers) only work on Android.
7. Alternatives: What do competitors offer?
If you haven't decided on your choice, look at the other brands. Here's a quick comparison:
| Model | Price. | Advantages | Deficiencies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Huawei Band 6 | ~2 500 ₽ | Large screen (1.47) measurement SpO₂ | Less accurate pedometer, no NFC |
| Honor Band 5 | ~1 700 ₽ | Good autonomy, water resistance | Outdated software, few dials |
| Amazfit Bip U Pro | ~3 000 ₽ | GPS, high accuracy of sensors | Big size, high price. |
The Xiaomi Mi Band 5 remains one of the most balanced options in terms of price/quality, its main competitors are the Huawei Band 6 (best screen) and the Amazfit Bip U Pro (best sensors), but they cost significantly more. If the budget is limited, the Mi Band 5 is the best choice.
However, if you want accurate data for professional training, consider GPS models (such as the Amazfit GTR 2 or Garmin Vivosmart 4). Xiaomi bracelets are more suitable for everyday use than for serious sports.
Frequently asked questions
❓ Can I use the Mi Band 4 band on the Mi Band 5?
❓ Which bracelet measures your heart rate more accurately: Mi Band 4 or 5?
❓ Does the Mi Band 5 support contactless payments?
❓ Can I use Mi Band 5 with custom firmware?
❓ How long does it take to fully charge the Mi Band 5?
If you have any questions about specific features or settings, consult official Xiaomi support or explore the FAQ section in the Mi Fit app. There are detailed instructions on synchronizing, configuring notifications and troubleshooting.
⚠️ Note: When buying the Mi Band 5 in the secondary market (Avito, Yula), check the originality of the device through the Mi Fit app. Counterfeiters often have inaccurate sensors and quickly fail.The original bracelet must have a serial number on the box and inside the About device menu.