Redmi Watch 5 vs. Active: Which Xiaomi Redmi Smartwatch Reigns Supreme?
Redmi Watch 5 vs. Redmi Watch 5 Active: Which Smartwatch is Your Perfect Pick for 2025?
Hey everyone, and welcome back to xiaomiforall.com! We all know how much tech has woven itself into our daily lives, right? And when it comes to wearable tech, smartwatches have become that essential extension of ourselves. Xiaomi, as always, is on top of things, offering us a fantastic blend of design, functionality, and, of course, that signature Xiaomi value.
Today, we’re diving deep into two of their popular contenders: the Redmi Watch 5 and the Redmi Watch 5 Active. Both landed in 2024 as part of that beloved Redmi Watch lineup, known for being super accessible and just plain reliable. But if you’re trying to figure out which one’s gonna be your wrist’s best friend, you’ve come to the right place. We’re gonna break down their features, weigh up the good and the not-so-good, chat about what users are saying, and help you pinpoint who each watch is really for. Stick around, and we’ll even throw in a handy comparison table to make that decision a whole lot easier!
Introduction: Xiaomi’s Smartwatch Game – Making Tech Accessible
Xiaomi has really made a name for itself by bringing awesome electronics to the masses without breaking the bank, and their Redmi smartwatch series is a perfect example. Both the Redmi Watch 5 and the Redmi Watch 5 Active are crafted for folks who want a smart, stylish, and functional watch that won’t empty their wallets, but still packs in modern must-haves like health tracking, Bluetooth connectivity, and batteries that actually last. But here’s the thing: each model has its own little quirks that make it better suited for different people. So, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of their specs, design, features, and what it’s actually like to live with them day-to-day.
Design and Display: Where Style Meets Smarts
Redmi Watch 5
Kicking things off with the Redmi Watch 5, this one’s positioned as the more premium offering in the series. It’s got this really nice blend of elegance and toughness. You’ll notice it sports an aluminum alloy frame and a stainless steel rotating crown, which just screams sophistication and durability. Then there’s the screen: a bright, sharp 2.07-inch AMOLED display with a crisp 410 x 502 pixel resolution and a punchy 1500 nits peak brightness. This means you can actually see what’s going on, even when you’re out in bright sunlight. Plus, it’s got this 2.5D protective glass that adds a premium feel and keeps scratches at bay.
The Redmi Watch 5′s design is super versatile; it’s a watch that looks just as good in a meeting as it does on a mountain trail. Weighing in at around 31g (without the strap), it’s comfortable enough to wear all day long. And you can really personalize it with swappable 22mm straps – it launched in classic black and white, but I’m sure more options will pop up. Oh, and it’s 5 ATM water-resistant, so you can totally take it for a swim or wear it in the rain without any worries.
Redmi Watch 5 Design & Display Pros:
* Premium materials: Aluminum and stainless steel give it a really nice feel.
* Brilliant AMOLED screen: Super bright and sharp, with an Always-On display option.
* 5 ATM water resistance: Great for swimmers and water sports enthusiasts.
* Elegant and versatile look: Works for both formal and casual settings.
Redmi Watch 5 Design & Display Cons:
* Might feel a bit large for very small wrists.
* The side button can sometimes get accidentally pressed when you move your wrist.
Redmi Watch 5 Active
Moving on to the Redmi Watch 5 Active, this one’s got a more sporty and functional vibe. Its design features a plastic frame with a metallic spray coating, giving it a modern look, but it’s definitely not as luxurious as the Redmi Watch 5. The screen here is a 2-inch LCD with a 320 x 385 pixel resolution and 500 nits peak brightness. It’s perfectly fine for most situations, but you might struggle a bit more in direct, harsh sunlight compared to its AMOLED sibling.
Measuring 49.1mm x 40.4mm x 11.4mm and weighing 30.6g (without the strap), the Redmi Watch 5 Active is a tad chunkier and heavier than the base model, but it’s still comfortable for everyday wear. It’s IPX8 water-resistant, meaning it can handle showers and splashes, but it’s not really built for high-intensity swimming like the Redmi Watch 5. Like the other model, it supports interchangeable straps, and its overall design is clearly aimed at users who are constantly on the move.
Redmi Watch 5 Active Design & Display Pros:
* Sporty and functional look: Great for outdoor activities and everyday use.
* Lightweight and comfortable: Easy to wear for extended periods.
* IPX8 water resistance: Good for showering and splashes.
* More budget-friendly: A definite plus if you’re watching your spending.
Redmi Watch 5 Active Design & Display Cons:
* Less vibrant LCD screen: Doesn’t quite match the AMOLED’s punch.
* Less premium materials: The plastic build is noticeable.
* Limited brightness: Can be challenging to see in direct sunlight.
User Experiences: What People Are Saying
* Redmi Watch 5: Users really rave about the AMOLED screen quality – the colors are vivid, and the contrast is superb. One user on Versus.com mentioned, “The screen is large and easy to read, even in the sun. The aluminum design gives it a premium touch you wouldn’t expect at this price.” However, a few folks find the side button a bit annoying on the left wrist, as it tends to get pressed accidentally. (Check out Versus.com for more insights!)
* Redmi Watch 5 Active: Feedback on platforms like Amazon.es highlights its ease of use and attractive design. A common comment is: “It’s a comfortable watch, with a large screen that looks good in the sun. Perfect for those looking for something functional and affordable.” On the flip side, some users point out that the LCD screen isn’t as sharp as an AMOLED, and the charging time can sometimes take longer than the advertised two hours. (Amazon reviews are a treasure trove of real-world feedback!)
Features: Health, Fitness, and Staying Connected
Both of these watches are kitted out with a solid suite of health monitoring, sports tracking, and connectivity features, but there are some key differences that set them apart.
Redmi Watch 5
The Redmi Watch 5 really steps up the game with its advanced features, targeting users who want precision and a bit more depth in their data. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Health Monitoring: It packs an advanced optical sensor for accurate tracking of heart rate, blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), heart rate variability (HRV), and VO2 max. This makes it a fantastic choice for anyone keen on a detailed analysis of their health and fitness levels. It also keeps tabs on your sleep, stress, and menstrual cycles.
- Sports Modes: Get ready for variety! It boasts over 150 sports modes, including personalized plans for runners, and it’s great for swimming thanks to that 5 ATM rating.
- Connectivity: You get NFC for mobile payments (though availability depends on your region) and, in some versions, an eSIM option, letting you use it as a standalone device. Plus, you can make and receive Bluetooth calls with a decent speaker and microphone, though the volume might be a bit limited in noisy environments.
- GPS: Built-in with a five-system GNSS chip (GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo, QZSS), it offers precise route tracking, perfect for all your outdoor adventures.
- Operating System: It runs on HyperOS, ensuring a smooth interface and setting you up for future updates.
Redmi Watch 5 Features Pros:
* Advanced optical sensor: For really accurate health metrics.
* Built-in GPS: Track your routes without needing your phone.
* NFC and eSIM options: Adds a layer of convenience and independence.
* Extensive sports modes: Caters to a wide range of activities.
Redmi Watch 5 Features Cons:
* The speaker for calls might not be loud enough in busy places.
* You can’t reply directly to notifications from apps like WhatsApp on the watch.
* Some features, like NFC, might not be available in all markets.
Redmi Watch 5 Active
The Redmi Watch 5 Active is designed for those who prioritize core functionality at a more accessible price point. Its feature set includes:
- Health Monitoring: It offers sensors for heart rate, SpO2, sleep, and stress tracking, but the sensor isn’t quite as advanced as the one in the Redmi Watch 5. You won’t find HRV or VO2 max here, which limits its depth for serious analysis.
- Sports Modes: It comes with over 140 sports modes, a slight dip from the Redmi Watch 5, but more than enough for most casual users.
- Connectivity: It supports Bluetooth calls with noise reduction thanks to dual microphones, which is a nice improvement over older models. However, it lacks NFC and eSIM, and it relies on your phone’s GPS for route tracking.
- Operating System: It also runs HyperOS, offering a similar user experience through the Mi Fitness app, though with fewer customization options than the Redmi Watch 5.
Redmi Watch 5 Active Features Pros:
* Bluetooth calls with good audio quality: The dual mic makes a difference.
* Plenty of sports modes: Great for general fitness tracking.
* Intuitive interface: Super easy to use, especially for beginners.
* Compatible with Mi Fitness app: Simple and effective for managing your data.
Redmi Watch 5 Active Features Cons:
* No built-in GPS: You’ll need your phone for outdoor activity tracking.
* Less accurate health sensors: Not ideal for in-depth health analysis.
* No NFC or eSIM: Limits its versatility as a standalone device.
User Experiences: Real-World Usage
* Redmi Watch 5: Users are loving the GPS accuracy and the advanced health metrics. A reviewer on Xataka mentioned, “The GPS connects in seconds and is pretty accurate for a watch at this price. It’s perfect for running or hiking.” On the downside, some find it a bit frustrating that you can’t directly reply to notifications. (Xataka often has great in-depth reviews!)
* Redmi Watch 5 Active: People are really appreciating its value for money and how simple it is to use. A happy customer on Amazon.es said, “It works great for receiving calls and notifications. The battery lasts over a week, even with heavy use.” On the other hand, others feel the lack of built-in GPS is a significant drawback for outdoor sports. (Check out Amazon for more user feedback!)
Battery Life: Powering Your Day (and Beyond)
Battery life is a strong point for both these devices, but the Redmi Watch 5 does have a slight edge.
- Redmi Watch 5: Equipped with a 550 mAh battery, it promises up to 24 days of typical use (meaning no constant GPS or Always-On display hogging power). If you’re really pushing it with constant monitoring and GPS, you’re looking at around 12-15 days. Users often report getting up to 16 days with moderate usage, which is pretty stellar.
- Redmi Watch 5 Active: This one sports a 470 mAh battery, aiming for up to 18 days in typical use and 12 days in intensive use. Real-world feedback suggests the battery typically lasts between 7 and 10 days with moderate use. A minor gripe for some is that the charging time, around 2.5 hours, can be a bit longer than initially advertised.
Battery Pros:
* Redmi Watch 5: Bigger battery capacity means even longer endurance, perfect if you tend to forget to charge your gadgets.
* Redmi Watch 5 Active: Still offers great battery life for its price point, more than enough for most casual users.
Battery Cons:
* Redmi Watch 5: Uses a proprietary charger, which can be a bit inconvenient if you lose it.
* Redmi Watch 5 Active: Charging takes a bit longer than some might prefer.
Price and Availability: Getting Your Hands On One
- Redmi Watch 5: Launched in China with a price tag of around €75 (599 yuan), it’s the pricier of the two but still remains very competitive in the mid-range smartwatch market. It’s not globally available everywhere just yet, but we’re expecting it to hit shelves in Europe soon. Keep an eye out!
- Redmi Watch 5 Active: This one is already readily available in Spain and other regions, often priced at around €35.99 on Xiaomi’s official website and major retailers like Amazon. It’s truly one of the most affordable smartwatches out there.
The Head-to-Head: Redmi Watch 5 vs. Redmi Watch 5 Active
| Feature | Redmi Watch 5 | Redmi Watch 5 Active |
|---|---|---|
| Display | AMOLED 2.07″, 410 x 502 px, 1500 nits, 2.5D glass | LCD 2″, 320 x 385 px, 500 nits |
| Materials | Aluminum frame, stainless steel crown | Plastic frame with metallic spray |
| Weight (no strap) | 31 g | 30.6 g |
| Water Resistance | 5 ATM (suitable for swimming) | IPX8 (splash and shower resistant) |
| Battery | 550 mAh, up to 24 days | 470 mAh, up to 18 days |
| GPS | Built-in (GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo, QZSS) | No, relies on phone’s GPS |
| Connectivity | NFC, eSIM (optional), Bluetooth | Bluetooth, dual microphones |
| Sports Modes | Over 150 | Over 140 |
| Health Sensors | Heart rate, SpO2, HRV, VO2 max, sleep | Heart rate, SpO2, sleep |
| Operating System | HyperOS | HyperOS |
| Price (Europe Est.) | Approx. €75 (pending global release) | Approx. €35.99 |
Who Should Buy Which Watch?
Your Go-To for the Redmi Watch 5:
- The Ideal User: If you’re an active person looking for a versatile smartwatch with more advanced features, this is your guy. Think runners, swimmers, or fitness enthusiasts who need built-in GPS and precise health data (like HRV or VO2 max). It’s also for those who appreciate a premium design and handy extras like NFC for payments.
- Scenario: Imagine you hit the trails for a run regularly, hit the pool, and want a stylish watch that can transition from your workout gear to office attire. You’ll definitely make the most of its integrated GPS, vibrant AMOLED screen, and long-lasting battery.
Your Go-To for the Redmi Watch 5 Active:
- The Ideal User: This one’s for the casual user or anyone new to the smartwatch world who wants a budget-friendly device for basic health tracking and staying connected. It’s perfect for light exercise and if you don’t necessarily need GPS built-in or fancy features like NFC.
- Scenario: Picture someone who enjoys daily walks, wants to get notifications on their wrist, and maybe even take quick Bluetooth calls without spending a lot. They’ll appreciate the ease of use, solid battery life, and killer price point.
The Final Verdict: Making Your Choice
So, to wrap it all up, the Redmi Watch 5 is the smart pick if you’re after a comprehensive smartwatch with a premium feel, built-in GPS, and advanced health metrics. Its AMOLED display, high-quality materials, and features like NFC make it a really compelling option for users who demand a bit more but still want great value. The slight downsides might be its higher price point and the fact that you can’t directly reply to messages, which could be a dealbreaker for some.
On the flip side, the Redmi Watch 5 Active truly shines when it comes to its bang for your buck. It offers a solid set of features at a seriously low cost. It’s ideal for everyday users who need a functional device with decent battery life and the convenience of Bluetooth calls. However, the lack of built-in GPS and a less vibrant LCD screen means it’s not the best choice for intense sports or use in very bright conditions.
Ultimately, your decision boils down to what you need and what you’re willing to spend. If you want that sweet spot between style, advanced functionality, and cutting-edge tech, the Redmi Watch 5 is probably your winner. If you’re looking to save some cash and just need a practical watch for everyday tasks, the Redmi Watch 5 Active is pretty unbeatable for its price. Either way, both these watches prove that Xiaomi continues to lead the pack in making great tech accessible to everyone.
Source Xiaomi Website
