The sub-$100 smartwatch market is fiercely competitive, and the Xiaomi Watch Color 2 and Huawei Watch GT 3 SE are two strong contenders. Both aim to deliver essential smartwatch features without breaking the bank, but they approach this goal with different philosophies. This comparison dives deep into their specifications and features to determine which offers the best value for your money.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing convenience and a potentially wider app ecosystem, the Huawei Watch GT 3 SE emerges as the slightly better choice. Its wireless charging capability and established brand recognition in wearables provide a more polished experience, despite limited detailed specs available for the Xiaomi Watch Color 2.
| 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 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, September 27 | 2022, November 10 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, September 30 | Available. Released 2022, November 10 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 46.5 x 47.3 x 11 mm (1.83 x 1.86 x 0.43 in) | 46.4 x 46.4 x 11 mm (1.83 x 1.83 x 0.43 in) |
| SIM | No | No |
| Weight | - | 35.6 g (1.27 oz) |
| | Waterproof (5ATM) | 50m water resistant
5 ATM
Compatible with standard 22mm straps (46mm model) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 466 x 466 pixels (~326 ppi density) | 466 x 466 pixels (~326 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.43 inches | 1.43 inches |
| Type | AMOLED | AMOLED |
| Platform |
|---|
| OS | Proprietary OS | HarmonyOS 2.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | Unspecified storage | 4GB |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE | Yes |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, compass, barometer, heart rate, SpO2 | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer, compass, SpO2 |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | Wireless |
| Type | Li-Po 470 mAh | 455 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Silver, Blue | Graphite Black, Wilderness Green |
| Models | M2106W1 | RUNE-B29 |
| Price | About 140 EUR | About 200 EUR |
Xiaomi Watch Color 2
- Potentially lower price point
- Likely lightweight design
- Focus on core fitness tracking
- Lack of detailed specifications
- Potentially limited app ecosystem
- Unknown charging method (likely wired)
Huawei Watch GT 3 SE
- Wireless charging convenience
- Established brand reputation in wearables
- Potentially optimized battery life
- Limited detailed specifications
- Huawei ecosystem restrictions for some users
- May be slightly more expensive
Display Comparison
Without specific display details for the Xiaomi Watch Color 2, we can infer it likely utilizes an AMOLED panel common in this price bracket. The Huawei Watch GT 3 SE, while also likely AMOLED, benefits from Huawei’s optimization for outdoor visibility. The absence of LTPO technology in either watch suggests standard refresh rates, impacting battery life during always-on display usage. Bezels are likely comparable, given the similar target price points, but the GT 3 SE’s design language may offer a slightly more premium aesthetic.
Camera Comparison
Neither the Xiaomi Watch Color 2 nor the Huawei Watch GT 3 SE feature cameras, a common omission in budget smartwatches. This simplifies the design and reduces power consumption, focusing resources on core smartwatch functionality.
Performance
The Xiaomi Watch Color 2’s chipset remains unspecified, suggesting a focus on efficiency over raw power. The Huawei Watch GT 3 SE, similarly, doesn’t disclose its processor details, but Huawei’s proprietary chipsets are known for balancing performance and battery life. RAM capacity is also unknown for both devices; however, given the limited feature set, neither watch requires substantial RAM. Thermal management is unlikely to be a concern for either, as they are not designed for intensive tasks.
Battery Life
The Huawei Watch GT 3 SE’s wireless charging is a significant advantage over a potentially wired-only charging solution for the Xiaomi Watch Color 2. While mAh capacity is not specified for either, Huawei’s optimization of its software and hardware typically results in longer battery life. The GT 3 SE’s wireless charging, while slower than fast wired charging, offers a more convenient top-up experience, particularly for users who frequently remove their watch.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Watch Color 2 if you need a simple, potentially more affordable smartwatch focused on core fitness tracking and basic notifications, and are comfortable with a less established ecosystem. Buy the Huawei Watch GT 3 SE if you prefer the convenience of wireless charging, a more refined user interface, and a brand with a proven track record in the smartwatch space, even if detailed specifications are scarce.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Huawei Watch GT 3 SE work seamlessly with iPhones?
While the Huawei Watch GT 3 SE can connect to iPhones via Bluetooth, the experience may be limited compared to pairing with an Android device. Some Huawei-specific features and app integrations may not be available on iOS.
❓ What fitness tracking features are available on the Xiaomi Watch Color 2?
Given its positioning as a budget smartwatch, the Xiaomi Watch Color 2 likely offers standard fitness tracking features such as step counting, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and potentially a selection of sports modes. However, the accuracy and depth of these features may be less advanced than those found on higher-end smartwatches.
❓ Is the wireless charging on the Huawei Watch GT 3 SE fast?
Wireless charging on the Huawei Watch GT 3 SE is convenient, but it's not particularly fast. Expect a full charge to take several hours, making it ideal for overnight charging rather than quick top-ups.
