The smartwatch market offers a spectrum of choices, from feature-rich ecosystems like Apple's to more affordable, versatile options like Xiaomi's. We're pitting the Apple Watch Series 9, the latest iteration of Apple's flagship wearable, against the Xiaomi Watch S1 to determine which offers the best value and functionality for different users.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem prioritizing seamless integration and advanced health features, the Apple Watch Series 9 is the clear winner. However, the Xiaomi Watch S1 provides a compelling alternative for those seeking a stylish, capable smartwatch without the premium price tag and ecosystem constraints.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | N/A | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 - International, China, HK |
| 4G bands | N/A | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 39, 40, 41, 66 - International, China, HK |
| EDGE | No | - |
| GPRS | No | - |
| Speed | No | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, December 28 | 2023, September 12 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, December 31 | Available. Released 2023, September 22 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Sapphire crystal front, stainless steel frame, plastic back | Sapphire crystal front, ceramic/sapphire crystal back, stainless steel frame |
| Dimensions | 46.5 x 46.5 x 11 mm (1.83 x 1.83 x 0.43 in) | 45 x 38 x 10.7 mm (1.77 x 1.50 x 0.42 in) |
| SIM | No | eSIM |
| Weight | 53 g (1.87 oz) | 42.3 g (41mm), 51.5 g (45mm) (1.48 oz) |
| | Waterproof (5ATM) | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Sapphire crystal glass |
| Resolution | 466 x 466 pixels (~326 ppi density) | 484 x 396 pixels (~326 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.43 inches | 1.9 inches |
| Type | AMOLED | Retina LTPO OLED, 2000 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | - | Dual-core |
| Chipset | - | Apple S9 |
| GPU | - | PowerVR |
| OS | Proprietary OS | watchOS 10, upgradable to watchOS 26.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | Unspecified storage | 64GB |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | - |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE | 5.3, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS, BDS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n (China only) | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, compass, barometer, heart rate, SpO2 | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer, always-on altimeter, compass, SpO2, VO2max, temperature (body) |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Wireless | Wireless, 0-80% in 45 min |
| Type | Li-Po 470 mAh | Li-Ion 308 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Silver | Graphite, Silver, Gold, Red |
| Models | M2108W1 | A2982, A2984, A2983, A2985, Watch7,3, Watch7,4 |
| Price | About 270 EUR | About 630 EUR |
| SAR | - | 1.02 W/kg (head) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.64 W/kg (head) |
Xiaomi Watch S1
- Seamless integration with Apple devices
- Powerful S9 chipset for smooth performance
- Advanced health tracking features
- High price point
- Ecosystem lock-in
- Limited compatibility with Android devices
Apple Watch Series 9
- More affordable price
- Wireless charging convenience
- Platform agnostic (likely compatible with both iOS and Android)
- Less powerful processor
- Potentially limited feature set compared to Series 9
- Unknown battery life performance
Display Comparison
While both devices utilize wireless charging, details regarding display technology are absent for the Xiaomi Watch S1. The Apple Watch Series 9, however, benefits from Apple’s advancements in display technology, likely including a high peak brightness and potentially an always-on display. Without specifics on the S1’s panel, it’s difficult to assess color accuracy or outdoor visibility compared to the Series 9. The Series 9’s display is likely optimized for watchOS’s interface and readability.
Camera Comparison
Neither device is primarily marketed for its camera capabilities, and neither specification includes camera details. This suggests both are focused on core smartwatch functionality rather than photography. Therefore, a direct comparison is not possible based on the provided data.
Performance
The Apple Watch Series 9’s dual-core Apple S9 chipset represents a significant performance advantage over the Xiaomi Watch S1, which lacks detailed processor information. The S9, built on an unspecified but likely advanced node, delivers faster processing speeds for app launches, animations, and complex tasks like Siri interactions. While the S1 likely handles basic smartwatch functions adequately, the S9’s architecture allows for more sophisticated features and future-proofing. The Series 9’s performance is further enhanced by its optimized software and integration with Apple’s hardware.
Battery Life
The Apple Watch Series 9 offers a 0-80% charge in 45 minutes with wireless charging. The Xiaomi Watch S1 also supports wireless charging, but lacks specific charging time details. The actual battery life will depend on usage patterns, but the Series 9’s optimized power management, coupled with the efficiency of the S9 chip, likely provides competitive endurance. Without knowing the S1’s battery capacity, it’s difficult to assess its real-world performance relative to the Series 9.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Watch S1 if you need a versatile smartwatch with wireless charging that isn't tied to a specific ecosystem, and you prioritize value for money. Buy the Apple Watch Series 9 if you prefer a best-in-class health tracking experience, seamless integration with iPhones, and are willing to pay a premium for the Apple ecosystem and the performance of the S9 chip.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ How does the Apple S9 chip impact real-world usage on the Series 9 compared to the Xiaomi Watch S1?
The Apple S9 chip provides a noticeable performance boost in app loading times, Siri responsiveness, and overall system fluidity. While the S1 likely handles basic tasks well, the S9 allows for more complex features and a smoother user experience, particularly when multitasking or using demanding applications.
❓ Is the wireless charging on the Xiaomi Watch S1 as convenient as the Apple Watch Series 9's, considering the Series 9's faster charging speed?
Wireless charging is convenient on both devices, but the Apple Watch Series 9’s ability to reach 80% charge in 45 minutes offers a significant time saving. The Xiaomi Watch S1’s charging speed is unknown, potentially making it less convenient for users who frequently need to top up their watch.
❓ If I don't own an iPhone, is the Apple Watch Series 9 still a viable option?
The Apple Watch Series 9 is heavily optimized for the Apple ecosystem. While technically compatible with Android via limited third-party apps, you'll lose access to core features like seamless pairing, iMessage integration, and Apple Pay. The Xiaomi Watch S1 is a more practical choice for Android users.
