The new year brings a flood of fitness trackers, but the Amazfit Active Max (released Dec 30, 2025) is making the loudest noise.
At just $169, it promises features usually reserved for $500 outdoor watches: offline topographic maps, a massive 3,000-nit display, and nearly a month of battery life.
But is it actually the “Max” version of the Active 2, or just a bigger frame? In this deep dive, we break down why this might be the best value smartwatch for your 2026 resolutions.
At a Glance: Amazfit Active Max Spec
| Feature | Amazfit Active Max | Why It Matters |
| Display | 1.5″ AMOLED (3,000 Nits) | Readable in direct mid-day sun. |
| Battery | 25 Days (Typical) / 64h GPS | You only charge it once a month. |
| Mapping | Offline Topo & Ski Maps | Navigate trails without your phone. |
| Health Tech | BioCharge™ Energy Score | Real-time recovery vs. exertion tracking. |
| Durability | Aluminum Alloy / 5 ATM | Built for rugged gym & trail use. |
| Price$169 / £169Half the price of a Galaxy Watch 8. |
- Incredible battery life (up to 25 days)
- Flagship-level 3,000-nit display.
- Reliable offline maps for hikers and skiers.
- Bluetooth calling and AI-powered Zepp Coach.
- The large 48mm case may be too bulky for smaller wrists.
- No sapphire glass (use a screen protector!).
Amazfit Active Max
Design: Built for Big Wrists and High Visibility
The first thing you’ll notice is the 1.5-inch AMOLED screen. While the standard Active 2 is sleek and minimalist, the Active Max is bold.
- 3,000 Nits Brightness: This is a game-changer. It matches the peak brightness of the most expensive Apple Watch Ultra, ensuring you can see your heart rate even during a bright afternoon run.
- Dual-Button Control: Unlike touch-only budget watches, the two pronounced metal buttons offer tactile feedback. This is crucial when your hands are sweaty or you’re wearing gym gloves.
- The “Tough” Factor: While it swaps the Active 2’s sapphire glass for strengthened tempered glass, the aluminum alloy case is surprisingly light at 39.5g (without strap), making it comfortable for 24/7 sleep tracking.
The BioCharge™ Advantage: Smarter Recovery
The standout software feature for 2026 is BioCharge™. Most trackers give you a “Readiness Score” in the morning that stays static all day.
BioCharge™ is different. It is a dynamic energy score that updates in real-time. If you crush a morning HIIT session, your score drops immediately.
If you take a 20-minute nap, it ticks back up. For anyone starting a New Year’s resolution, this helps prevent the #1 cause of failure: overtraining and burnout.
3. Navigation: No Phone? No Problem.
Most sub-$200 watches rely on your phone for GPS. The Active Max features a high-gain circular polarized antenna that connects to 5 satellite systems.
- Offline Maps: You can download topographic maps directly to the 4GB internal storage.
- Ski & Trail Support: It comes pre-loaded with maps for major ski resorts and hiking trails, making it a legitimate tool for outdoor enthusiasts.
Active Max vs. Active 2: Which Should You Buy?
| Feature | Active 2 (Standard) | Active Max |
| Screen Size | 1.32″ | 1.5″ |
| Storage | Limited | 4GB (Music + Maps) |
| GPS Life | 21 Hours | 64 Hours |
| Price | ~$99 | $169 |
The Verdict: If you just want a step counter, stick with the Active 2. But if you plan to use Offline Music (Spotify/Podcasts) and need GPS for long hikes, the extra $70 for the Max is the smartest investment you’ll make this year.
FAQ
Does the Amazfit Active Max have NFC?
Yes, NFC is supported for contactless payments in EMEA regions via Zepp Pay.
Can I play music without my phone?
Yes, the 4GB of storage lets you store hundreds of songs and play them via Bluetooth headphones.
Is Amazfit Active Max waterproof?
Yes It has a 5 ATM rating, meaning it is safe for swimming in pools or the ocean, but not for high-speed water sports or deep diving.
Is the Amazfit Active Max better than the Amazfit Active 2?
Yes, the Amazfit Active Max is a significant upgrade over the Active 2. It features a larger 1.5-inch 3,000-nit display (vs. 1.32-inch 2,000-nit), 4GB of music and map storage, and nearly double the battery life (25 days vs. 14 days). If you use offline maps or listen to music without your phone, the Active Max is the superior choice.
Does the Amazfit Active Max work with iPhone and Android?
Yes, the Amazfit Active Max is fully compatible with both iOS (14.0+) and Android (7.0+). You simply need to download the Zepp App from the App Store or Google Play Store to sync your health data, customize watch faces, and receive notifications.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the Amazfit Active Max?
The Amazfit Active Max is clearly designed to own the “Mid-Range King” title for 2026. It bridges the gap between basic fitness trackers and high-end multisport watches.
If your 2026 goal involves more outdoor movement and smarter recovery, the Active Max provides the data you need without the $500 price tag.
Ready to crush your 2026 goals? Check Price & Availability on Amazon Note: The Active Max is currently a top-seller for the New Year—stock may be limited.
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