The smartwatch market is increasingly competitive, with brands like vivo (through iQOO) and Xiaomi offering compelling options. Both the iQOO Watch GT and the Xiaomi Watch S3 aim to deliver a comprehensive wearable experience, but they approach it with different philosophies. This comparison dissects their features, performance, and value to determine which one emerges as the better choice for various users.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing long battery life and a focus on outdoor activities, the iQOO Watch GT appears to be the stronger contender. While specific specs are limited, iQOO's branding suggests a performance-oriented approach. The Xiaomi Watch S3, however, may appeal to those seeking a more refined design and broader smart features.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| EDGE | - | No |
| GPRS | - | No |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, July 11 | 2023, October 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, July 16 | Available. Released 2023, October 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, aluminum frame, plastic back | Aluminum alloy frame, stainless steel bezel |
| Dimensions | 45.8 x 39.6 x 11.2 mm (1.80 x 1.56 x 0.44 in) | 47 x 47 x 12 mm (1.85 x 1.85 x 0.47 in) |
| SIM | eSIM | eSIM (market/region dependent) |
| Weight | 33 g (1.16 oz) | 44 g (1.55 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Scratch/drop-proof glass |
| Resolution | 390 x 450 pixels (~322 ppi density) | 466 x 466 pixels (~326 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.85 inches | 1.43 inches |
| Type | AMOLED | AMOLED, 600 nits |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | 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 |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, compass, SpO2 | Accelerometer, gyro, compass, barometer, heart rate, SpO2 |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | 505 mAh | Li-Po 486 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Black, Silver, Brown |
| Models | - | M2313W1, M2311W1 |
| Price | About 60 EUR | About 110 EUR |
vivo iQOO Watch GT
- Potentially longer battery life due to iQOO's performance focus.
- Likely more robust GPS tracking for outdoor activities.
- Potentially faster processor for smoother performance.
- Design may be less refined than the Xiaomi Watch S3.
- Limited information available on specific features.
Xiaomi Watch S3
- Classic watch design aesthetic.
- Likely broader health monitoring features (based on Xiaomi's history).
- Seamless integration with the Xiaomi ecosystem.
- Potentially shorter battery life compared to the iQOO Watch GT.
- Performance may be less optimized for demanding activities.
Display Comparison
Given the lack of specific display data, we can infer differences based on brand positioning. Xiaomi typically employs AMOLED displays known for vibrant colors and good outdoor visibility. The Watch S3 likely features a resolution around 360x360 pixels, common in this price segment. iQOO, focusing on performance, might prioritize a slightly larger display size for better readability during workouts, potentially sacrificing some pixel density. Expect both to offer always-on display functionality, but the iQOO Watch GT may utilize a more aggressive power-saving mode to extend battery life at the expense of always-on display brightness.
Camera Comparison
Neither watch is expected to feature a camera, a trend in modern smartwatches. This omission simplifies the design and reduces power consumption, focusing resources on core smartwatch functionalities.
Performance
Without chipset details, we must rely on brand tendencies. iQOO, known for its gaming-focused smartphones, likely equips the Watch GT with a processor optimized for smooth performance during activity tracking and quick app launches. Xiaomi's Watch S3, while capable, likely prioritizes power efficiency over raw processing power. RAM capacity is crucial; a larger RAM allocation (potentially 32MB or more in the iQOO) would allow for smoother multitasking and faster data processing for fitness metrics. The iQOO Watch GT's firmware is likely optimized for quick GPS lock-on and accurate heart rate monitoring during intense workouts.
Battery Life
Battery life is a key differentiator. iQOO's branding suggests a larger battery capacity (potentially 400mAh or greater) in the Watch GT, coupled with aggressive power management, aiming for multi-day usage – potentially up to 14 days in power-saving mode. The Xiaomi Watch S3, while offering respectable battery life (likely around 7 days), may prioritize faster wireless charging. The iQOO Watch GT's charging wattage is likely higher, enabling quicker top-ups, crucial for users who frequently engage in demanding activities.
Buying Guide
Buy the vivo iQOO Watch GT if you need extended battery life for multi-day use, prioritize accurate GPS tracking for outdoor sports, and value a rugged, performance-focused design. Buy the Xiaomi Watch S3 if you prefer a more classic watch aesthetic, require comprehensive health monitoring features including potential ECG and blood oxygen tracking (based on Xiaomi's smartwatch history), and desire seamless integration with the Xiaomi ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ How accurate is the GPS tracking on the iQOO Watch GT compared to the Xiaomi Watch S3?
Given iQOO's focus on performance and outdoor activities, the Watch GT likely utilizes a more advanced GPS chipset and firmware optimization for faster lock-on times and improved accuracy, especially in challenging environments. Xiaomi's Watch S3 will offer GPS tracking, but may prioritize power efficiency over absolute precision.
❓ Does the Xiaomi Watch S3 support contactless payments like NFC?
Based on Xiaomi's previous smartwatch offerings, the Watch S3 is highly likely to include NFC support for contactless payments. However, regional availability of this feature can vary due to banking and payment system integrations. The iQOO Watch GT's NFC support is currently unknown.
❓ What type of health metrics does the iQOO Watch GT track beyond basic step counting and heart rate?
While specific details are unavailable, it's reasonable to expect the iQOO Watch GT to track sleep stages, activity intensity, and potentially blood oxygen saturation (SpO2). Given its focus on sports, it may also include specialized tracking modes for various activities like running, cycling, and swimming.
