The smartwatch market is increasingly competitive, offering a range of options at various price points. The Nothing CMF Watch Pro 2 and Xiaomi Watch S3 both aim to deliver a compelling blend of style and functionality, but cater to slightly different priorities. This comparison dives deep into their expected features, based on brand positioning and market trends, to determine which smartwatch offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing a unique design aesthetic and potentially broader ecosystem integration, the Nothing CMF Watch Pro 2 appears to be the stronger contender. However, Xiaomi’s established track record in wearable technology and likely focus on comprehensive health tracking may appeal to fitness enthusiasts.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | N/A | HSDPA |
| 4G bands | N/A | LTE |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | No | No |
| Speed | - | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, July 08 | 2023, October 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, July 08 | Available. Released 2023, October 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, aluminum frame | Aluminum alloy frame, stainless steel bezel |
| Dimensions | 45 x 45 x 13.6 mm (1.77 x 1.77 x 0.54 in) | 47 x 47 x 12 mm (1.85 x 1.85 x 0.47 in) |
| SIM | No | eSIM (market/region dependent) |
| Weight | 44.4 g (1.55 oz) | 44 g (1.55 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Scratch/drop-proof glass |
| Resolution | 466 x 466 pixels (~353 ppi density) | 466 x 466 pixels (~326 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.32 inches | 1.43 inches |
| Type | AMOLED, 2160Hz PWM, 620 nits (typ) | AMOLED, 600 nits |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | - |
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | Unspecified | - |
| Phonebook | No | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | No | - |
| Java | No | - |
| Messaging | SMS(threaded view), Email, IM | - |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, SpO2 | Accelerometer, gyro, compass, barometer, heart rate, SpO2 |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 305 mAh | Li-Po 486 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Grey Curved, Dark Grey Flat, Ash Grey Curved, Ash Grey Flat | Black, Silver, Brown |
| Models | - | M2313W1, M2311W1 |
| Price | $ 42.29 / € 58.97 | About 110 EUR |
Nothing CMF Watch Pro 2
- Unique and minimalist design language
- Potential for seamless integration with Nothing ecosystem
- Likely competitive pricing
- Unproven track record in wearable technology
- Software experience may be less refined than Xiaomi
Xiaomi Watch S3
- Established brand reputation in wearables
- Comprehensive health and fitness tracking features
- Mature and optimized software experience
- Design may be less distinctive than Nothing
- Potential for higher price point
Display Comparison
Given Nothing’s design focus, the CMF Watch Pro 2 is likely to feature a vibrant AMOLED display with a focus on color accuracy and thin bezels, potentially utilizing a higher screen-to-body ratio. Xiaomi, with the S3, will likely prioritize readability and outdoor visibility, potentially employing a slightly higher peak brightness. Both are expected to have touch-sensitive displays, but the CMF Watch Pro 2 may lean towards a more visually striking aesthetic, while the S3 will likely focus on practical usability. Expect both to be around 1.4-1.6 inches in size.
Camera Comparison
Neither device is expected to feature a camera. This is a common trend in modern smartwatches, prioritizing battery life and sleek design over camera functionality. The absence of a camera simplifies the design and reduces potential points of failure.
Performance
While specific chipset details are unavailable, the Xiaomi Watch S3, benefiting from Xiaomi’s experience, is likely to employ a more power-efficient processor optimized for wearable applications. The Nothing CMF Watch Pro 2, being a newer entrant, may prioritize a balance between performance and cost. RAM capacity will be crucial; a larger RAM allocation (likely 4GB or more in the S3) will ensure smoother multitasking and faster app loading times. Thermal management will be passive in both, relying on the efficiency of the chipset and software optimization.
Battery Life
Battery life will be a key differentiator. The Xiaomi Watch S3, leveraging its optimized chipset and potentially larger battery capacity (estimated 470mAh vs. a potential 450mAh for the CMF Watch Pro 2), is likely to offer longer battery life under typical usage. However, Nothing may implement aggressive power-saving modes to compensate. Charging speeds are also important; Xiaomi’s proprietary charging technology may offer faster 0-100% times compared to the CMF Watch Pro 2’s standard charging solution.
Buying Guide
Buy the Nothing CMF Watch Pro 2 if you value a distinctive, minimalist design and are invested in the Nothing ecosystem, potentially benefiting from seamless integration with other Nothing devices. Buy the Xiaomi Watch S3 if you prioritize a mature software experience, a wider range of health and fitness tracking features, and a more established brand reputation in the wearable space.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ How will the Nothing CMF Watch Pro 2 integrate with other Nothing devices?
Given Nothing's ecosystem approach, expect seamless pairing and data synchronization with Nothing phones and earbuds. Features like quick settings access and unified notification management are likely to be implemented, offering a more cohesive user experience.
❓ What health tracking features can we expect from the Xiaomi Watch S3?
Xiaomi typically includes a comprehensive suite of health tracking features, including heart rate monitoring, SpO2 measurement, sleep tracking, stress monitoring, and potentially advanced metrics like VO2 Max. Expect detailed data analysis and personalized insights within the Xiaomi Wear app.
❓ Will either watch support third-party app installations?
Support for third-party apps is limited on most smartwatches in this price range. While both may offer a curated selection of apps, extensive app ecosystems like those found on Wear OS or watchOS are unlikely.
❓ How durable are the expected materials used in each watch?
Both watches are likely to utilize aluminum alloy for the casing, offering a good balance of strength and weight. The CMF Watch Pro 2 may incorporate more unique materials to align with its design aesthetic, while the S3 will likely prioritize robustness and scratch resistance.
