The Xiaomi ecosystem offers a range of smartwatches catering to different needs and budgets. Two popular contenders are the Watch S1 Active and the Redmi Watch 3. Both promise fitness tracking and smart notifications, but which one truly stands out? Let's dive into a comprehensive comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Xiaomi Watch S1 Active generally offers a more premium experience with a sleeker design, potentially better build quality, and potentially more advanced features. The Redmi Watch 3 is a more budget-friendly option, providing solid fitness tracking and essential smart features at a lower price point. The S1 Active wins for overall quality, but the Redmi Watch 3 is a great value.
| 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 | 2022, March 15 | 2022, December 27 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, March 24 | Available. Released 2022, December 27 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, aluminum frame | Plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 46.5 x 47.3 x 11 mm (1.83 x 1.86 x 0.43 in) | 42.6 x 36.6 x 10 mm (1.68 x 1.44 x 0.39 in) |
| SIM | No | No |
| Weight | 36 (1.27 oz) | 37 g (1.31 oz) |
| | Waterproof (5ATM) | Waterproof (5ATM)
50m water resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 466 x 466 pixels (~326 ppi density) | 450 x 390 pixels (~341 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.43 inches | 1.75 inches |
| Type | AMOLED | AMOLED, 600 nits (peak) |
| | - | Always-on display |
| Platform |
|---|
| OS | Proprietary OS | Proprietary OS |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | Unspecified storage | Unspecified storage |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE | 5.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, compass, barometer, heart rate, SpO2 | Accelerometer, heart rate, compass, gyro, SpO2 |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Po 470 mAh | Li-Ion 289 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Moon White, Space Black, Ocean Blue | Black, White |
| Models | - | M2215W1 |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 120 EUR |
Xiaomi Watch S1 Active
- Premium Design & Build
- Potentially Brighter AMOLED Display
- Potentially More Advanced Health Tracking
- Sleeker Look
- Higher Price
- Potentially Shorter Battery Life Compared to Redmi Watch 3
Xiaomi Redmi Watch 3
- More Affordable
- Good Battery Life
- Reliable Fitness Tracking
- Lightweight
- Less Premium Design
- Potentially Less Vibrant Display
- Fewer Advanced Features
Display Comparison
The Watch S1 Active likely features a brighter and more vibrant AMOLED display with a higher resolution compared to the Redmi Watch 3's display. Expect better visibility in direct sunlight and a more visually appealing experience on the S1 Active. The Redmi Watch 3 will still offer a decent display, but it may not be as premium.
Camera Comparison
Neither watch has a built-in camera. This is a common omission in this price range.
Performance
While both watches run on proprietary operating systems, the Watch S1 Active might have a slightly more responsive user interface due to potentially more powerful hardware. Navigation and app loading times could be marginally faster on the S1 Active. Both will handle basic smartwatch functions well.
Battery Life
The Redmi Watch 3 is expected to offer slightly better battery life due to its potentially less power-hungry display and processor. Expect several days of use on a single charge for the Redmi Watch 3, while the Watch S1 Active might require charging every 2-3 days depending on usage.
Buying Guide
The Xiaomi Watch S1 Active is ideal for users who prioritize a premium design, potentially more advanced health tracking features (like SpO2 monitoring and sleep analysis), and are willing to spend a bit more. The Redmi Watch 3 is perfect for budget-conscious buyers who want a reliable smartwatch for basic fitness tracking and notifications without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which watch is better for fitness tracking?
Both offer solid fitness tracking, but the Watch S1 Active *may* have more advanced sensors and features. The Redmi Watch 3 provides reliable tracking for common activities.
❓ Can I receive notifications on both watches?
Yes, both watches support receiving notifications from your smartphone, including calls, texts, and app alerts.
