Xiaomi is taking the budget-friendly gadget world by storm, and the Redmi Watch 5 won’t disappoint. At a surprisingly affordable £90, the Watch 5 has a great design, excellent battery life, and more. But how does it compare to other watches on the market? And is it worth upgrading from its less bulky counterparts, the Watch 5 Active and Watch 5 Lite? Let’s find out!
Design and build quality
The Redmi Watch 5 features a premium aluminum alloy frame that instantly sets it apart from its budget-friendly predecessor. The frosted matte finish not only enhances its aesthetics but also keeps stains and scratches at bay. The rubberized elastomer straps are comfortable for all-day wear and can be easily replaced thanks to a user-friendly mechanism. Need a leather strap for a formal occasion? Or maybe a nylon strap for exercise? Xiaomi has some great options for you.
Water Resistance
The Watch 5 is designed for pool laps and sweaty gym sessions with 5 ATM water resistance. Still, Xiaomi recommends avoiding hot showers or saunas.
Display
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| AMOLED Brilliance | 2.07-inch AMOLED display features bright colors, deep blacks, and sharp details. |
| Auto-Brightness Support | Seamlessly adjusts for optimal visibility in different lighting conditions. |
| Always-On Display Option | Keeps the aesthetic the same but saves battery time. |
| Customizable Watch Faces | Available in the hundreds through the Mi Fitness app, although customization is a bit restricted. |
HyperOS Experience
The Redmi Watch is launched with HyperOS in Xiaomi which allows users to enjoy a seamless and interactive experience. Widgets are added on the same display, making it more convenient for easy navigation and customization. The rotating crown can help with scrolling.
Fitness tracking features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Heart Rate Monitoring | 24-hour monitoring, generally accurate with occasional glitches. |
| Workout Modes | Over 150 workout modes, suitable for all kinds of activities. |
| GNSS Tracking | Five-system GNSS offers good, but not perfect, accuracy. |
| Sleep Tracking | Provides a general overview of your rest patterns. |
Everyday smartwatch features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Notifications and Alerts | See notifications, but lack reply functionality for most apps. |
| Media Controls | It’s easy to control music playback or adjust the volume. |
| Calling Capabilities | The built-in microphone and speaker allow for making calls, but won’t replace your phone. |
Battery life
This is where the Redmi Watch 5 really comes into its own. Xiaomi promises up to 25 days of battery life, and real-world tests back up this claim. Even with heavy use, you can expect about two weeks between charges.
What’s missing?
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| NFC and Contactless Payments | Doesn’t support NFC, so you’ll still need your wallet. |
| Voice Assistant | Limited functionality if you rely on a virtual assistant. |
Comparison with budget rivals
The Redmi Watch 5 punches above its weight with a premium design, AMOLED display, and great battery life. While it lacks some high-end features, it offers incredible value.
Who should buy the Redmi Watch 5?
If you’re looking for a stylish, reliable smartwatch that won’t break the bank, the Redmi Watch 5 is a great option. It’s ideal for casual fitness enthusiasts and people looking for rugged everyday functionality.
Pricing and Availability
The UK-based version will be priced at £89.99 (approximately $110). It is a great buy for those who want premium features without breaking the bank. With such a great price tag, this budget-friendly smartwatch is set to take the market by storm.
Conclusion
The Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5 is one of the best products in the smartwatch world. It really strikes the balance of affordability, style, and practicality very well. The device doesn’t have some premium features, but it has other qualities that make it a winner, such as its great battery life, AMOLED display, and user-friendly interface.
FAQs
1. Is the Redmi Watch 5 compatible with iPhone?
Yes, it works great on both Android and iOS devices via the Mi Fitness app.
2. How long does the Redmi Watch 5’s battery last?
The Redmi Watch 5 battery lasts around 11-12 days with normal use.
3. Is the Redmi Watch 5 waterproof?
Yes, the Redmi Watch 5 has a water-resistant rating of 5 ATM. So you can take it for swimming.
4. Does the Redmi Watch 5 support NFC payments?
No, this version doesn’t support it.
5. Can I customize the watch faces on the Redmi Watch 5?
The Redmi Watch 5 has several watch faces to choose from, but the customization options are very limited. You can change the color, that’s it. like color changes.