Xiaomi smart watches have long ceased to be just an accessory – they have become full-fledged assistants in everyday life, sports and health monitoring. Every year the range expands: from budget fitness bracelets to premium smart watches with premium smart watches. AMOLED-But how do you avoid getting lost in this variety and choose the model that is perfect for you?
In this article, we will discuss the key selection criteria, compare the top models Xiaomi Watch and Mi Band, and give practical recommendations on functionality, design and compatibility. Focus on the new products of 2026, they turned out to be really breakthrough. If you are looking for a device for running, swimming, sleeping or just a stylish gadget suit, here you will find the answers.
Spoiler: not always the most expensive model meets expectations. Sometimes a budget fitness bracelet does better than a flagship watch. Let's get this straight.
Key criteria for choosing a smart watch Xiaomi
Before you compare specific models, decide what you need the gadget for, and it depends on which characteristics to pay attention to first.
Here are the main parameters that are worth assessing:
- 📱 Type of device: full-fledged smart watch (with its own software and applications) or fitness bracelet (simplified functionality, emphasis on health).
- 🏃 Sporting functions: support GPS, accuracy of the pulsemeter, running / swimming / bicycle analysis, automatic activity recognition.
- ⚡ Autonomy: 5 days (smart watches) to 2 weeks (bracelets) New 2026 promises up to 16 days on a single charge!
- 🩺 Health monitoring: measurement SpO₂ (oxygen saturation, stress, sleep, ECG (only in premium models), pressure (conditionally, without medical accuracy).
- 📲 Compatibility: working with Android/iOS, Support for notifications, music management, NFC Payment for payments (not in all models).
- 💎 Design and materials: metal / plastic case, removable straps, water protection (3ATM, 5ATM or full swimming mode).
Note that if you need a swim watch, look for models with 5ATM support (up to 50 meters pressure), the built-in GPS is important for running, without it, the accuracy of the route tracking leaves much to be desired, and if you plan to pay for purchases from the watch, check for NFC (not all models work in Russia).
Top.-5 Xiaomi smartwatches in 2026 year: comparative table
To make it easier to choose, we have compiled a ranking of the best Xiaomi models based on price/quality ratio, user feedback and technical innovations. In the table below, we have key characteristics that will help you quickly navigate.
| Model | Type | Display. | GPS | Autonomy | NFC | Price. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro | Smart watches | 1.43" AMOLED, 466×466 | ✅ (dual) | 7 days | ✅ (depending on the region) | ~15 000 ₽ |
| Xiaomi Watch S3 | Smart watches | 1.43" AMOLED, 466×466 | ✅ | 15 days | ✅ | ~12 000 ₽ |
| Redmi Watch 4 | Budget hours | 1.97" AMOLED, 450×450 | ❌ | 10 days | ❌ | ~5 000 ₽ |
| Mi Band 8 Pro | Fitness bracelet | 1.74" AMOLED, 336×480 | ✅ | 14 days | ❌ | ~7 000 ₽ |
| Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro | Premium | 1.47" AMOLED, 480×480 | ✅ (sapphire-glass) | 14 days | ✅ | ~20 000 ₽ |
An important nuance: NFC in Xiaomi watches does not work in all countries. In Russia, payment through Mi Pay is officially supported only on the Watch S3 and Watch 2 Pro models (after updating the firmware).
⚠️ Warning: Pro-indicated models (e.g. Watch 2 Pro or Pro) S1 Pros often have improved sensors and stainless steel body, but their price can be overstated due to branding. If you do not need sapphire glass or ceramic case, pay attention to the standard versions - they are cheaper with similar functionality.
Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro vs Xiaomi Watch S3: Which is Better?
Two flagship models from 2026 that are most often compared. AMOLED-displays, supported GPS They have extended health functions, but there are key differences.
Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro is marketed as a “smart watch for an active lifestyle”.
- 🏆 Dual GPS (more accurate route tracking).
- 🩺 ECG support (currently only in China, but expected to be updated for the global version).
- 🔋 Fast charging (up to 100% in 45 minutes).
At the same time, the Xiaomi Watch S3 is more autonomous (up to 15 days vs. 7) and has a more classic physical button design, and the sleep analysis algorithm is improved in this model, it recognizes even short awakenings.
Which option should I choose?
- ✅ Watch 2 Pro – if you want to be sporty and accurate GPS.
- ✅ Watch S3 — If long work without recharging and classic look are the priority.
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The Watch 2 Pro is suitable for athletes, and the Watch S3 is suitable for those who appreciate autonomy and style.
Budget options: Redmi Watch 4 and Mi Band 8
Not everyone needs a flagship watch for 15-20 thousand rubles. If you are looking for an inexpensive gadget for basic activity tracking and notifications, look at the Redmi Watch 4 and Mi Band 8.
Redmi Watch 4 is the most affordable watch from Xiaomi AMOLED-display (1.97 inches!) despite the price of about 5,000 ₽, they can:
- 📊 Track 150.+ sports (though not really, without any sports) GPS — Only according to the smartphone data).
- 💤 Monitor sleep and stress levels.
- 🎵 Managing music on your phone.
The main disadvantage is the lack of NFC and mediocre autonomy (up to 10 days with active use), but the design turned out stylish: the thin body and large screen make them visually similar to the Apple Watch.
Mi Band 8 (and its Pro version) is a fitness bracelet, but with advanced features. GPS, What is rare for bracelets in this price segment (~7 000 ₽). Also here:
- 🏊 Swimming support (5ATM).
- 🔋 Autonomy up to 14 days.
- 📱 Full notifications (you can respond to messages with templates).
⚠️ Attention! Mi Band 8 (not Pro) bracelets are not GPS — They're only suitable for indoor activity tracking or smartphone-based tracking. GPS, Take the Mi Band 8 Pro, despite the price difference.
Check for GPS (if you need tracking on the street)
Check compatibility with your smartphone (Android/iOS)
Pay attention to the type of strap (silicone/skin/metal)
View reviews on the accuracy of the pulsemeter-->
For sports: what watch Xiaomi is better for running, swimming and gym
If your main goal is to train, then the criteria for choosing a sports training are narrowed down to three key parameters: accuracy. GPS, water protection and analysis of metrics (temperature, pulse zones, VO₂ max).
The best models for different sports:
- 🏃 Running and Bicycle: Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro (Dual) GPS + analysis of running dynamics) or Mi Band 8 Pro (budget version with a GPS).
- 🏊 Swimming: Xiaomi Watch S3 Mi Band 8 Pro (both of which are available) 5ATM and pool/open water regime).
- 🏋️ Gym: Redmi Watch 4 (cheap but with 150 support)+ Activities, including strength exercises).
Important: Not only do you have the 5ATM for swimming, but you also have the Open Water mode, which is available in the Watch S3 and Mi Band 8 Pro, but is not available in the budget models.
If you’re a triathlon or other multidisciplinary sportsman, consider the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro – you can switch between activities without stopping the timer.
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Before your first training session with a new watch, calibrate your compass and GPS in the open, which will improve tracking accuracy by 20 to 30 percent.
Design and style: what Xiaomi watches look premium
Not everyone needs a sports watch with bright straps. If you are looking for a device that will look harmoniously with business clothes, look for models with a metal body and classic dials.
Top.-3 style:
- Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro — sapphire glass, ceramic case, straps made of natural leather. It looks like a traditional watch, but with the functionality of a smart device.
- Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro (version with metal bracelet) - minimalist design, fits the suit.
- Redmi Watch 3 Active (budget version) - thin body and neutral colors (black, silver).
Tip: You can download additional dials in the Mi Fitness app, including a Rolex, Casio, or minimalist analog watch, which is free and takes a couple of minutes.
Pay attention to the size of the screen:
- 1.3-1.4" - a universal variant, suitable for both men and women.
- 1.7-1.9" - looks modern, but may appear bulky on a thin hand.
How to change the band on Xiaomi Watch?
Compatibility with iPhone and Android: What you need to know
Xiaomi’s smartwatch officially supports both Android and iOS, but there are nuances.On the iPhone, some of the features may be limited.
What works on the iPhone:
- ✅ Notifications (calls, SMS, messengers).
- ✅ Monitoring activity and sleep.
- ✅ Music management (pause/replay).
What does not work (or works with limitations):
- ❌ Responses to messages (view only).
- ❌ NFC-Payment (Mi Pay does not support iPhone).
- ❌ Some widgets and apps (for example, the weather may be updated less often).
On Android, all features are available in full, including:
- 📱 Quick responses to messages.
- 💳 NFC-Payment (if supported by the model).
- 🔄 Automatic data synchronization with Google Fit.
⚠️ Attention! On an iPhone, Xiaomi will have to use Mi Fitness (formerly Zepp) to connect its watch, which is less stable than on Android, and sometimes loses connection. If you have an iPhone, check the compatibility reviews of a particular model before buying it.