Redmi Watch 5

Introduction

When it comes to affordable smart wearables, Chinese tech giant Xiaomi has something for everyone. Its range spans Wear OS smartwatches, fitness trackers and various other smart devices under the Redmi label. A good example is the new Redmi Watch 5. This latest model from Xiaomi’s popular sub-brand combines an attractive price with a surprisingly solid set of specifications, making it an appealing choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly smartwatch. Let’s take a quick look at the specifications.

Specifications

Case: Aluminium
Display: 2.07″ AMOLED
– Brightness of 1,500 nits
– Refresh rate of 60 Hz
Battery: 550 mAh
Features: Accelerometer, Gyroscope sensor, Heart rate sensor, Compass, Microphone, Oximeter (Blood oxygen), Sleep monitor, Step counter
Weight (grams): 33.5g
Resolution: 514×432
Bluetooth: 5.3

Battery

Xiaomi claims that the Watch 5, equipped with a 550mAh battery, lasts up to 24 days, and that estimate seems reasonably accurate. Of course, actual battery life depends on how you use it: if you regularly run, walk or cycle with GPS enabled, the battery will drain faster. The smartwatch also features dual microphones and a built-in speaker, allowing you to make phone calls directly from your wrist. Unfortunately, replying to messages is not possible.

Design and display

The design is reminiscent of the Apple Watch, with its square shape and rotating crown on the right, but there are naturally plenty of differences under the hood. The silver model with its white strap has a stylish, refined look. The watch faces range from bold and modern to elegant, making the Watch 5 suitable for just about anyone. With no fewer than 200 different styles to choose from, you can customise the watch face to suit your taste. You can even use your own photos as a background.

The Watch 5 has a 2.07-inch display, slightly larger than previous models, with vibrant colours and deep blacks. Thanks to the 60Hz refresh rate, scrolling and navigation feel smooth and fluid. The display remains easy to read even in bright sunlight, which is always useful.

Fitness and health:

Xiaomi has equipped the Redmi Watch 5 with various sensors for comprehensive health monitoring, making it an excellent, affordable option for anyone seeking an alternative to Fitbit smartwatches, for example. The watch offers features such as a heart rate monitor, SpO2 sensor and sleep tracking. With more than 150 sports modes, it helps you reach your fitness goals. The built-in GNSS receiver lets you track your running or cycling route without taking your smartphone along. The watch also has a 5ATM water-resistance rating, so even swimming is no problem.

The biggest difference lies not in the measurements, but in the software used to display the data. Personally, I find Fitbit’s system slightly more user-friendly and easier to navigate. Still, it is largely a matter of getting used to it. What’s more, Fitbit locks many features behind a paywall, whereas the Mi Fitness app provides all the information you need—without any extra charges.

Conclusion:

The Xiaomi Watch 5 offers a premium look at an affordable price, with a large, bright AMOLED display, extensive health features and impressive battery life. Its lightweight design and built-in GPS make it an excellent choice for fitness enthusiasts, as well as anyone looking for a stylish, functional smartwatch without breaking the bank. It costs around EUR 100, making it an appealing model to consider!