The wearable electronics market reached unprecedented heights in 2022, and Chinese giant Xiaomi was in the middle of this technological storm: Smart watches are no longer just an accessory for displaying time or notifications, becoming full-fledged health and sports management centers. The consumer today is offered a wide range of devices: from budget fitness trackers to premium gadgets with sapphire glass and GPS-Choosing between multiple models can be confusing even for a sophisticated geek, because the lines are constantly updated and the names often confuse buyers.
In this article, we will conduct an in-depth analysis of the current model range to help you decide which Xiaomi smartwatch is best to choose in the current realities. We will look at the technical nuances of operating systems, autonomy and accuracy of sensors, which are often ignored in marketing brochures. It is important to understand that buying a gadget for a year or two in advance requires an informed decision based on real needs, not only on a bright picture in advertising.
The situation in 2022 is unique in that the brand has divided its products into several clear segments, each of which has its own advantages: someone looking for maximum autonomy, someone – the ability to install third-party applications, and for others, the design is critical, reminiscent of classic mechanics.
Ecosystem Evolution: MIUI Watch, Wear OS and proprietary systems
The first thing a customer faces in 2022 is a variety of software. Xiaomi doesn’t use a single platform for all devices, which creates a certain confusion. Flagship models like the Xiaomi Watch S1 or Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro run on Google Wear OS (or its modifications), which opens up access to the huge Google Play app store.This allows you to install maps, instant messengers and even payment systems, turning the watch into a mini-smartphone on your wrist.
On the other hand, most fitness models and devices under the Amazfit brand (which is closely related to the Xiaomi ecosystem) use proprietary systems such as Zepp OS or MiOS. These platforms are focused on maximum energy efficiency. They do not allow heavy third-party applications to be installed, but provide record-breaking non-recharge time – up to 14-20 days versus 1-2 days for Wear OS.
Choosing an operating system is a trade-off between functionality and autonomy. If you want a full-fledged computer on your hand with the ability to respond to voice messages and listen to music through streaming services directly from the watch, Wear OS is the only option. However, if the priority is tracking sleep, steps and rare charging, proprietary systems from Xiaomi will perform much better.
What is the difference between Wear OS and Zepp OS?
It’s also worth noting that interaction with iOS (iPhone) differs from system to system, and Wear OS models may have limited functionality when paired with iOS, while Zepp OS-based trackers work with iPhones almost as fully as they do with Android.
The flagship models of 2022: Watch S1 and S1 Pro
If the question is which Xiaomi smartwatches are top in 2022, the answer is unequivocal - the Watch S1 series. The base Watch S1 model offers a classic design with a stainless steel bezel and sapphire glass, making them incredibly scratch-resistant. Inside, there is a powerful dual-core processor that provides smooth interface animation and fast navigation.
The Pro version goes even further, offering a titanium body and a more capacious battery. Both models feature an NFC contactless payment module (in supported regions) and built-in GPS to allow running without a phone. Support for more than 100 training regimes and accurate pulse tracking through a new generation of optical sensor are important for athletes.
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When buying a flagship model, pay attention to the version: Global Version supports Google Pay and has Russified instruction, while the Chinese version (CN) may not have NFC in your region and require complex manipulations to translate.
But there's a nuance: it requires daily charging when used actively, and the high-resolution AMOLED screen and the constantly running Wear OS background processes quickly land the battery, and it's a cost for functionality that you have to be prepared for.
- 🔥 Premium Materials: Stainless Steel and Sapphire Glass.
- 📱 Full-fledged operating system with access to the app store.
- 📡 Built-in GPS and NFC for payment and transportation.
- 🔋 Require daily or every two days charging.
Next generation fitness bracelets: Mi Band 7 and 7 Pro
For many users, it is the Mi Band that is associated with Xiaomi smart watches. In 2022, the 7th series was released, which was divided into two camps: the classic Mi Smart Band 7 and the more advanced Mi Band 7 Pro. The classic “seven” received an increased number of models. AMOLED-frameless screen and support for always-on display (AOD). This made the device look more like a full-fledged watch, while maintaining a compactness.
The Pro was a hit for those who were looking for a middle ground. GPS-It's a rare thing in this price segment, and you can go for a run without a phone and the track will be recorded exactly, and the Mi Band 7 Pro has a larger rectangular screen and a metal frame, which makes it stand out among plastic competitors.
⚠️ Warning: Mi Band 7 Pro doesn't have a full-fledged operating system.You can't install apps from the store, and the interface remains pretty simple and linear.
The autonomy of both devices remains high. Unlike the flagship watch, the wristbands last 10 to 14 days in normal mode. This makes them an ideal choice for those who do not want to think about charging every night. Support for 110+ sports modes and blood oxygen monitoring (SpO2) make them a serious tool for amateur sports.
Budget segment and sub-brands: Redmi and Haylou
There’s not always a need to overpay for flagship features. Redmi offers the Redmi Watch lineup, which in 2022 will feature 2 Lite and 2. These are square-screen devices running on a lightweight version of MIUI for wearables. They offer a great balance of price and quality, providing a basic set of features: notifications, pulse meter, SpO2 and a variety of dials.
Even deeper into the budget segment goes the brand Haylou, also part of the ecosystem Xiaomi. RT2 offer a metallic body and AMOLED-And of course, there's a lot of compromises, because plastic is not glass, less accurate sensors are not there. NFC. But for the first time familiar with smart wearable electronics, this is a great option.
It's important to understand the difference in body materials. In the budget segment, polycarbonate is often used, which can scratch, and mineral glass, which is less durable than sapphire. However, for everyday wear in the office or gym, their strength is quite sufficient.
- 💰 The best ratio of price and functionality in the market.
- ⌚ Stylish design that copies the Apple Watch.
- 📉 Limited functionality compared to Wear OS.
- 🏃 Suitable for beginners and children.
Comparative table of characteristics of popular models
To organize the information and make the final decision, let’s put the key parameters into a single table, which will help you to see the difference between flagships and budget solutions available in 2022.
| Model | Operating system | Screen. | GPS | Autonomy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Watch S1 | Wear OS (modif.) | AMOLED 1.43" | Built-in | 12 days |
| Mi Band 7 Pro | Proprietary | AMOLED 1.64" | Built-in | 12 days |
| Mi Band 7 | Proprietary | AMOLED 1.62" | No (Connected GPS) | 14 days |
| Redmi Watch 2 Lite | MIUI for Watch | IPS 1.55" | No (Connected GPS) | 10 days |
| Haylou Solar Plus | Proprietary | AMOLED 1.43" | No (Connected GPS) | 12 days |
The table shows that only the Watch models S1 The Mi Band 7 Pro has a built-in GPS, And that's critical for runners who don't want to carry their phones around. GPS, So, you take location data from your phone.
Choice Criteria: What to Consider Before Buying
When choosing a smartwatch in 2022, it’s not enough to just look at the price, you need to consider a number of technical parameters that directly affect the comfort of use. AMOLED Provides deep black, high brightness and rich picture, making the interface readable in the sun. IPS-screens found in budget models, inferior in contrast and consume more energy.
The second important aspect is water protection. The 5 ATM standard means that the watch can withstand immersion to a depth of 50 meters. This allows you to swim in the pool and take a shower. If the marking is lower (for example, IP68 without specifying ATM), then swimming in such a watch is not recommended, only washing your hands and protecting against rain.
☑️ Checklist before purchase
It’s also worth considering compatibility with your smartphone. While most Xiaomi devices work with both Android and iOS, the functionality of the Mi Fitness app (formerly Zepp Life) may differ, for example, iPhones often don’t have a quick response to messages or full music control feature.
⚠️ Warning: Make sure your smartphone supports Bluetooth 5.0 or higher for stable performance of all features, especially if you plan to transfer music or use Always-On Display.