The smartwatch market is increasingly competitive, with both Xiaomi and Huawei offering compelling options. Both the Xiaomi Watch S1 and the Huawei Watch GT 4 feature wireless charging, a convenience feature becoming standard in this segment. However, beyond this shared capability, these watches diverge in their approach to features, design, and target audience. This comparison dives deep into the specifics to determine which smartwatch delivers the best overall experience.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing a blend of style and functionality, the Huawei Watch GT 4 emerges as the stronger contender. While both offer wireless charging, the GT 4’s likely superior battery optimization (based on Huawei’s historical performance) and potentially more refined software experience give it an edge.
| 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, December 28 | 2023, September 14 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, December 31 | Available. Released 2023, October 02 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Sapphire crystal front, stainless steel frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic back, stainless steel frame |
| Dimensions | 46.5 x 46.5 x 11 mm (1.83 x 1.83 x 0.43 in) | 46 x 46 x 10.9 mm (1.81 x 1.81 x 0.43 in) |
| SIM | No | No |
| Weight | 53 g (1.87 oz) | 37 g (41mm) / 48 g (46mm) (1.31 oz) |
| | Waterproof (5ATM) | - |
| 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 4.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | Unspecified storage | Unspecified |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | - |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE | 5.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n (China only) | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, compass, barometer, heart rate, SpO2 | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer, compass, SpO2, thermometer (body temperature) |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Wireless | Wireless |
| Type | Li-Po 470 mAh | Li-Ion 524 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Silver | Black, Steel, Silver, Gold |
| Models | M2108W1 | ARA-B19, PNX-B19 |
| Price | About 270 EUR | About 270 EUR |
Xiaomi Watch S1
- Wireless charging convenience
- Potential for wider app compatibility
- Integration with Xiaomi ecosystem
- Likely shorter battery life compared to GT 4
- Potentially less refined software experience
Huawei Watch GT 4
- Wireless charging convenience
- Exceptional battery life (based on GT series history)
- Sleek and stylish design
- Proprietary ecosystem limitations
- Potentially limited app selection
Display Comparison
Both the Xiaomi Watch S1 and Huawei Watch GT 4 utilize AMOLED displays, a standard for vibrant colors and good outdoor visibility. However, specific details like peak brightness (nits), resolution, and the presence of features like LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) for adaptive refresh rates are crucial differentiators. Without specific data, we can infer that Huawei, given its focus on battery life, may prioritize power efficiency in its display technology, potentially opting for a slightly lower resolution or refresh rate in favor of extended usage. Xiaomi, historically, has focused on delivering a visually striking experience, potentially leading to a higher peak brightness.
Camera Comparison
Neither the Xiaomi Watch S1 nor the Huawei Watch GT 4 are marketed as camera-centric devices. Therefore, camera capabilities are likely minimal or absent. This section is less relevant for this comparison, as the primary focus is on smartwatch functionality, not photography.
Performance
The performance of these smartwatches hinges on their chipsets and RAM. While specific chipset details are missing, Huawei’s Watch GT series often employs proprietary chip designs optimized for power efficiency and health tracking. Xiaomi typically utilizes Qualcomm or MediaTek chipsets. The efficiency of the chipset directly impacts battery life and the responsiveness of the user interface. Without knowing the RAM capacity, it’s difficult to assess multitasking capabilities, but a larger RAM allocation would benefit users who frequently switch between apps or use complex watch faces. The impact of the chipset will be most noticeable in the speed of app loading and the smoothness of animations.
Battery Life
Both watches support wireless charging, simplifying the charging process. However, the actual battery life and charging speed are critical. Huawei’s GT series is renowned for its exceptional battery life, often exceeding several days on a single charge. Xiaomi, while offering respectable battery performance, typically falls short of Huawei in this area. The mAh capacity of the battery, combined with the chipset’s power efficiency and display technology, determines real-world usage. Faster wireless charging speeds are also desirable, reducing the time spent tethered to a charger.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Watch S1 if you prioritize a more open ecosystem and potentially wider app compatibility, leaning towards a user who already invests in the Xiaomi ecosystem. Buy the Huawei Watch GT 4 if you value long battery life, a sleek design, and a focus on health and fitness tracking, and are comfortable within Huawei’s proprietary ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ How does the wireless charging speed compare between the Xiaomi Watch S1 and Huawei Watch GT 4?
While both support wireless charging, specific wattage details are unavailable. However, Huawei often optimizes its charging algorithms for efficiency, potentially resulting in a faster overall charge time despite similar wattage ratings. The actual charging time will also depend on the wireless charger used.
❓ Is the software experience significantly different between the Xiaomi Watch S1 and Huawei Watch GT 4?
Yes, the software experience is a key differentiator. The Xiaomi Watch S1 likely runs a more open operating system, potentially offering wider app compatibility. The Huawei Watch GT 4 utilizes Huawei’s HarmonyOS, which is more closed but optimized for health and fitness tracking, and offers a streamlined user interface.
❓ Can I use any Qi-compatible wireless charger with either of these watches?
Generally, yes. Both the Xiaomi Watch S1 and Huawei Watch GT 4 are expected to support the Qi wireless charging standard, meaning you can use most Qi-compatible wireless chargers. However, for optimal charging speeds, it's recommended to use a charger specifically designed for smartwatches.
