Looking for the best budget smartwatch? Xiaomi’s latest wearables, the Redmi Watch 5 and Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro offer great features at an affordable price. But which one is right for you?
While both devices help track your steps, workouts, and health, they are quite different in design, features, and price.
The Redmi Watch 5 looks more like a traditional smartwatch, with a bigger screen and extra features like Bluetooth calling and music storage.
On the other hand, the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro is a lightweight fitness tracker, designed for people who prefer a smaller, simpler device.
If you are trying to decide which one is right for you, here are 5 big differences that will help you make the best choice.
Redmi Watch 5 vs the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro Spec
| Feature | Redmi Watch 5 | Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Smartwatch-style, rectangular, rotating button | Slim fitness band, touchscreen-only |
| Display | 2.07″ AMOLED, 1500 nits brightness | 1.74″ AMOLED, 1200 nits brightness |
| Weight | 33.5g (heavier, sturdy feel) | 24.5g (lighter, comfortable for all-day wear) |
| Bluetooth Calls | ✅ Yes, built-in speaker & mic | ❌ No, only microphone for voice commands |
| Music Storage | ✅ Yes, store & play music | ❌ No music storage or playback |
| GPS | ✅ Yes, built-in GPS | ✅ Yes, built-in GPS |
| Battery Life | Up to 24 days (10 days with AOD) | Up to 21 days (8-10 days with AOD & GPS) |
| NFC | ❌ No | ✅ Yes, but works only in China |
| Water Resistance | ✅ 5ATM (swim-proof) | ✅ 5ATM (swim-proof) |
1️⃣ Shape & Size – Which One Feels Better on Your Wrist?
The Redmi Watch 5 features a rectangular smartwatch design with a rotating button for easy navigation. If you prefer a traditional smartwatch with a large AMOLED display, this is a great choice.
It has a larger size (47.5mm x 41.1mm) and weighs 33.5 grams, giving it a sturdy feel on the wrist.
The Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro is much smaller and lighter, weighing only 24.5 grams.
It has a sleek, band-like design and is completely touchscreen-based, with no buttons. This makes it great for people who prefer a compact and lightweight tracker that is comfortable for all-day wear.
If you like bigger screens and a smartwatch look, go for the Redmi Watch 5.
But if you want something small, light, and simple, the Smart Band 9 Pro is the better choice.
2️⃣ Display & Brightness – Which One is Easier to See?
The Redmi Watch 5 has a big 2.07-inch AMOLED display, which is brighter and sharper than the 1.74-inch screen on the Smart Band 9 Pro.
The higher brightness level (1500) makes it one of the best outdoor smartwatches for sunlight visibility.
The Smart Band 9 Pro also has an AMOLED screen, but it’s smaller and less bright (1200 nits). While the display is still clear, it might not be as easy to read outside.
If you want a big, bright screen with clear text and icons, the Redmi Watch 5 is the better option.
But if you don’t mind a smaller display, the Smart Band 9 Pro will still get the job done.
3️⃣ Calls, Music & Sound – Can You Talk & Listen on These?
One of the biggest advantages of the Watch 5 is that it comes with a built-in speaker and microphone.
This means you can take Bluetooth calls directly from your watch and store music to listen to without needing your phone.
The Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro, on the other hand, does not have a speaker. This means you cannot take calls or listen to music in the band.
It does have a microphone, which allows you to use voice commands, but it doesn’t support audio playback.
If you want a watch that can handle calls and play music, the Redmi Watch 5 is the clear winner.
But if you don’t care about these features and just need a simple fitness tracker, the Smart Band 9 Pro is still a solid choice.
4️⃣ Battery Life – Which One Lasts Longer?
When it comes to battery life, Both devices have great battery life, but the Watch 5 lasts a little longer.
It has a 550mAh battery, which can last up to 24 days on a single charge. Even with the Always-On Display (AOD) turned on, it still lasts around 10 days.
The Smart Band 9 Pro has a 350mAh battery, giving it a battery life of about 21 days. If you use Always-On Display and GPS, you might need to charge it every 8–10 days.
If battery life is important to you, the Redmi Watch 5 will last longer. But both devices offer good battery performance, so you won’t have to charge them often.
5️⃣ Price & NFC – Which One is a Better Deal?
The Redmi Watch 5 is cheaper, costing around $60, while the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro costs around $90.
The Smart Band 9 Pro has NFC support, but there’s a catch—it only works in China. If you live outside China, the NFC feature won’t be useful.
Since both devices offer similar features, the Redmi Watch 5 gives you more for your money. Unless you need NFC and live in China, the Watch 5 is the better deal.
Redmi Watch 5 vs. Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro – Which One Should You Buy?
If you want a full smartwatch experience, the Redmi Watch 5 is the better choice.
It has a bigger screen, Bluetooth calling, music storage, and longer battery life. Plus, it’s cheaper than the Smart Band 9 Pro.
If you prefer a lightweight fitness tracker that’s small and simple, the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro is still a great option. It’s comfortable, tracks workouts well, and lasts a long time on a charge.
FAQ (Quick Answers!)
Q: Which smartwatch is better, the Redmi Watch 5 or the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro?
The Redmi Watch 5 is better for those wanting a smartwatch with Bluetooth calling and a bigger display. The Smart Band 9 Pro is ideal for those looking for a lightweight fitness tracker with essential tracking features.
Does the Redmi Watch 5 have GPS?
Yes! It has a built-in GPS, so you don’t need your phone for tracking runs.
Can I reply to messages?
No, both watches show notifications, but you can’t reply to messages.
Are both waterproof?
Yes! Both have 5ATM water resistance, so you can wear them while swimming.
Which one is better for workouts?
Redmi Watch 5 is better because it has a bigger screen and built-in GPS.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve seen the 5 key differences, which one fits your needs?
Both the Redmi Watch 5 and Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro are great budget wearables, but they serve different purposes.
If you want a full smartwatch with more features, get the Redmi Watch 5.
If you prefer a simple, lightweight fitness tracker, the Smart Band 9 Pro is a good choice.
Now you know everything. Which one will you choose? Let us know in the comments.
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