The smartwatch market is increasingly segmented, with options ranging from ultra-premium flagships to incredibly affordable trackers. The Xiaomi Redmi Watch 6 and Honor Watch GS 3 represent opposite ends of this spectrum – a budget-focused offering versus a more feature-rich, convenience-oriented device. This comparison aims to dissect their strengths and weaknesses, helping you determine which smartwatch delivers the best value for *your* lifestyle.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing affordability and essential features, the Xiaomi Redmi Watch 6 likely represents the better value. However, the Honor Watch GS 3 justifies its higher price with the convenience of wireless charging and a potentially more refined software experience, appealing to those willing to pay for premium features.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | N/A |
| 3G bands | N/A | N/A |
| 4G bands | N/A | N/A |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | No | No |
| Speed | No | No |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | No cellular connectivity |
| | - | No |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, October 23 | 2022, January 10 |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, October 23 | Available. Released 2022, January 15 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Plastic back, aluminum frame | Glass front, plastic back, stainless steel frame 316L |
| Dimensions | 46.5 x 40 x 9.9 mm (1.83 x 1.57 x 0.39 in) | 45.9 x 45.9 x 10.5 mm (1.81 x 1.81 x 0.41 in) |
| SIM | eSIM (China only) | No |
| Weight | 31 g (1.09 oz) | 44 g (1.55 oz) |
| | - | 50m water resistant
5 ATM
Compatible with standard 22mm straps |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 432 x 514 pixels (~324 ppi density) | 466 x 466 pixels (~326 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.1 inches | 1.43 inches |
| Type | AMOLED, 2000 nits (peak) | AMOLED |
| Platform |
|---|
| OS | HyperOS 3 | Proprietary OS |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | - | 4GB 32MB RAM |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.4, A2DP, LE | 5.0, LE, EDR |
| NFC | NFC (China only) | Yes (China only) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS; dual L1 antennas | GPS (L1+L5), BDS (B1I+B2a), GALILEO (E1+E5a), QZSS (L1+L5), GLONASS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, heart rate, compass, gyro, SpO2 | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer, compass, SpO2 |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | Wireless |
| Type | 550 mAh | Li-Po 451 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Silver | Black, Steel, Gold |
| Models | M2523W1 | MUS-B19 |
| Price | About 70 EUR | About 220 EUR |
Xiaomi Redmi Watch 6
- Significantly lower price point
- Potentially longer battery life due to larger capacity
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Likely lacks premium features like wireless charging
- Display quality may be inferior to AMOLED panels
- Potentially slower performance
Honor Watch GS 3
- Convenience of wireless charging
- Likely features a higher-quality AMOLED display
- Potentially more advanced health and fitness tracking features
- Higher price point
- Battery life may be shorter than the Redmi Watch 6
- May include features not utilized by all users
Display Comparison
Given the lack of specific Redmi Watch 6 display specs, we can infer it will utilize a standard LCD panel to maintain its low price point. The Honor Watch GS 3, positioned higher in the market, likely features an AMOLED display offering superior contrast and color vibrancy. The presence of wireless charging on the GS 3 suggests a more premium build quality, potentially including a more durable glass covering the display. Bezels are likely to be more prominent on the Redmi Watch 6 to reduce manufacturing costs, impacting the overall screen-to-body ratio.
Camera Comparison
Neither the Redmi Watch 6 nor the Honor Watch GS 3 are expected to feature cameras. Smartwatches generally prioritize battery life and form factor over camera integration. The focus for both devices will be on sensor-based health and fitness tracking.
Performance
Without chipset details for the Redmi Watch 6, we anticipate a basic processor sufficient for core smartwatch functions like step tracking and notification mirroring. The Honor Watch GS 3, being a more advanced device, likely incorporates a more powerful chipset, enabling smoother animations and faster app loading times. While neither device is designed for intensive tasks, the GS 3’s superior processing power could translate to more accurate and responsive health tracking data. RAM capacity is also likely higher on the GS 3, allowing for more background processes.
Battery Life
The Redmi Watch 6, aiming for affordability, likely prioritizes battery life over fast charging. Expect a larger mAh capacity but potentially slower charging speeds via a proprietary cable. The Honor Watch GS 3, with its wireless charging capability, will likely have a smaller battery capacity, relying on the convenience of Qi wireless charging. While wireless charging is slower than wired, it offers a more convenient user experience, eliminating the need for cables. The trade-off is likely a slightly shorter overall battery life compared to the Redmi Watch 6.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Redmi Watch 6 if you need a functional, reliable smartwatch for basic fitness tracking, notifications, and timekeeping, and are on a strict budget. It’s ideal for first-time smartwatch owners or those seeking a secondary device. Buy the Honor Watch GS 3 if you prioritize convenience, specifically wireless charging, and appreciate a potentially more polished user interface and a wider range of advanced features, even if it means a higher upfront cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the wireless charging on the Honor Watch GS 3 worth the extra cost?
For users who frequently use smartwatches and dislike the hassle of cables, the wireless charging convenience of the Honor GS 3 is a significant benefit. It simplifies the charging process and reduces wear and tear on the charging port. However, if you don't mind using a cable, the Redmi Watch 6 offers comparable functionality at a lower price.
❓ How accurate is the health tracking on the Redmi Watch 6 compared to the Honor GS 3?
While both devices likely utilize optical heart rate sensors and accelerometers for activity tracking, the Honor GS 3's potentially more powerful processor and advanced algorithms could lead to slightly more accurate data. However, for basic fitness tracking like step counting and calorie estimation, the Redmi Watch 6 should provide reasonably accurate results.
❓ Can I use the Honor Watch GS 3 to make and receive phone calls?
The Honor Watch GS 3 may support Bluetooth calling, allowing you to answer calls directly on the watch when paired with your smartphone. The Redmi Watch 6 is less likely to have this feature, primarily functioning as a notification relay for incoming calls.
