The sub-$100 fitness tracker market is fiercely competitive. The ZTE Watch Live and Huawei Watch Fit 4 both aim to deliver essential health and activity tracking features without breaking the bank. However, they approach this goal with different philosophies, making a direct comparison crucial for budget-conscious consumers.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Huawei Watch Fit 4 emerges as the better choice. Its 5W wireless charging offers convenience, and while specific details on the ZTE Watch Live are scarce, Huawei’s established fitness ecosystem and likely superior software experience give it an edge in overall usability and feature set.
| 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 | 2020, November 27. Released 2020, December 03 | 2025, May 15 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2025, May 26 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, aluminum alloy frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 40.6 x 34.6 x 10.8 mm (1.60 x 1.36 x 0.43 in) | 43 x 38 x 9.5 mm (1.69 x 1.50 x 0.37 in) |
| SIM | No | No |
| Weight | 35.7 g (1.27 oz) | 27 g (0.95 oz) |
| | IP68 dust/water resistant | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 240 pixels (~261 ppi density) | 480 x 408 pixels (~347 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.3 inches | 1.82 inches |
| Type | TFT LCD | AMOLED, 2000 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| OS | Proprietary OS | - |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | - | No |
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | - | Unspecified |
| Phonebook | - | No |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | - |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | No | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2 | 5.2, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes (gray model only) |
| Positioning | No | GPS (L1+L5), GALILEO (E1+E5a), QZSS (L1+L5), BDS (B1l+B1C), GLONASS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | - | No |
| Java | - | No |
| Messaging | - | Email, IM |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, heart rate, SpO2 | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, SpO2, compass, barometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 5W wireless |
| Type | Li-Ion | Li-Ion 400 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Black, Silver |
| Models | ES43C | SYA-B19 |
| Price | About 30 EUR | € 109.00 / $ 140.75 |
ZTE Watch Live
- Potentially the lowest price point in the market.
- Basic fitness tracking functionality.
- Lightweight and comfortable design (assumed).
- Lack of detailed specifications hinders accurate assessment.
- Potentially limited software features and updates.
- Unknown charging method and battery life.
Huawei Watch Fit 4
- Convenient 5W wireless charging.
- Likely a more refined user interface and software experience.
- Established fitness tracking ecosystem with Huawei Health app.
- Slightly higher price compared to the ZTE Watch Live.
- May require pairing with a Huawei smartphone for full functionality.
- Limited app ecosystem compared to Wear OS or Apple Watch.
Display Comparison
Without specific display details for the ZTE Watch Live, it's difficult to make a direct comparison. However, Huawei typically employs vibrant AMOLED displays in its Fit series. The Watch Fit 4 likely benefits from this, offering superior contrast and outdoor visibility compared to a potential LCD panel on the ZTE Watch Live. The size and resolution of the Huawei Watch Fit 4’s display will also contribute to a more detailed and engaging user experience.
Camera Comparison
Neither device features a camera, focusing solely on fitness and notification features. This is typical for devices in this price bracket, prioritizing battery life and form factor over imaging capabilities.
Performance
The ZTE Watch Live’s chipset remains unknown, but given its price point, it likely utilizes a basic, power-efficient processor focused on core tracking functions. The Huawei Watch Fit 4, while not a performance powerhouse, benefits from Huawei’s optimization and likely a more efficient processor, allowing for smoother animations and quicker data synchronization. The lack of detailed specs on the ZTE Watch Live makes a precise performance comparison impossible, but Huawei’s track record suggests a more polished experience.
Battery Life
The Huawei Watch Fit 4’s 5W wireless charging is a significant advantage, offering a convenient charging experience. While the battery capacity isn’t specified, the efficiency of Huawei’s chipsets and software optimization likely translates to competitive battery life. The ZTE Watch Live’s charging method and battery capacity are unknown, potentially relying on a less convenient proprietary connector and potentially shorter battery life due to less efficient components.
Buying Guide
Buy the ZTE Watch Live if you prioritize absolute lowest cost and are comfortable with a potentially limited software experience. Given the lack of detailed specifications, it's best suited for users needing a basic step tracker. Buy the Huawei Watch Fit 4 if you value convenience with wireless charging, a more refined user interface, and a broader range of fitness tracking features, even if it means spending slightly more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Given the limited information on the ZTE Watch Live, is it a risky purchase?
Yes, the lack of detailed specifications makes the ZTE Watch Live a riskier purchase. Without knowing the chipset, battery capacity, or display technology, it's difficult to assess its overall performance and longevity. Consumers should proceed with caution and consider the Huawei Watch Fit 4 for a more predictable experience.
❓ Does the Huawei Watch Fit 4 require a Huawei phone to function fully?
While the Huawei Watch Fit 4 pairs seamlessly with Huawei smartphones, it is compatible with Android devices via the Huawei Health app. However, some features, such as seamless app notifications and potentially certain data synchronization options, may be limited when paired with a non-Huawei phone.
❓ What type of wireless charging does the Huawei Watch Fit 4 use?
The Huawei Watch Fit 4 utilizes a standard 5W wireless charging protocol. This means it can be charged with any Qi-compatible wireless charger, offering flexibility and convenience.
