In the ever-evolving world of smartwatches, Xiaomi continues to carve a niche by offering feature-rich devices at remarkably affordable prices. The Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5 is the latest addition to their lineup, promising a premium design, robust fitness tracking, and impressive display quality at a fraction of the cost of high-end competitors. At first glance, it may seem too good to be true for its price, but a closer look reveals a device that punches well above its weight. Let’s dive into an in-depth analysis of what the Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5 has to offer.

Premium Design and Build Quality

When it comes to design, the Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5 is a clear standout in its price category. Unlike its predecessors, such as the Redmi Watch Active or Light models, this iteration takes a significant leap in build quality. Xiaomi has opted for a sleek aluminum alloy chassis, moving away from the plastic builds that are typical in budget smartwatches. This choice gives the device a premium feel without compromising on weight or durability.

Available in silver and black finishes, the aluminum casing has a frosted matte texture that resists fingerprints and smudges, maintaining a clean and polished look even after extended use. Despite being rugged enough to withstand minor bumps and scratches, the watch remains lightweight, ensuring it is comfortable for all-day wear.

The Redmi Watch 5’s minimalistic aesthetic is complemented by its well-crafted buttons and strap design. The straps are interchangeable, allowing users to customize the look of their watch to suit different occasions. Xiaomi has successfully struck a balance between form and function, making this a device that looks as good as it performs.

Stunning AMOLED Display

The display is arguably one of the most important aspects of a smartwatch, and Xiaomi delivers on this front with a stunning 2.07-inch AMOLED panel. This vibrant screen boasts deep blacks, rich colors, and a resolution that ensures crisp text and icons. Its slim bezels and slightly curved flat screen lend a modern, seamless look that rivals more expensive competitors.

One standout feature is the auto-brightness functionality, which adjusts the screen’s luminosity based on ambient lighting. Whether you’re indoors under soft lighting or outdoors in bright sunlight, the display remains easily legible. This adaptability ensures that you can rely on the Redmi Watch 5 in any setting without having to manually tweak the brightness.

With a variety of watch faces to choose from, users can personalize their experience further. The Mi Fitness app offers over 200 watch face designs, ranging from minimalistic analog styles to dynamic digital options. While customization options for these faces are somewhat limited, the sheer variety ensures there’s something for everyone.

Intuitive User Interface with HyperOS

Xiaomi has equipped the Redmi Watch 5 with HyperOS, a proprietary operating system that focuses on simplicity and efficiency. The interface is clean and intuitive, with widgets, swipe gestures, and a rotating crown that allows for smooth navigation through menus and features.

HyperOS provides quick access to essential functions such as heart rate monitoring, fitness tracking, and notifications. Its user-friendly layout ensures that even first-time smartwatch users can get the hang of it without any hassle. While the OS lacks some advanced features seen in premium devices, such as third-party app integration, it covers all the basics with aplomb.

Comprehensive Fitness and Health Tracking

Fitness enthusiasts will find plenty to appreciate in the Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5. Packed with a range of health-tracking features, the watch is designed to cater to both casual users and serious athletes.

Heart Rate and SpO2 Monitoring

The watch includes 24/7 heart rate monitoring and SpO2 tracking, providing real-time insights into your cardiovascular health and oxygen saturation levels. These features are especially useful for those who engage in high-intensity workouts or need to monitor their health conditions.

Sleep Tracking and Stress Management

Sleep tracking is another highlight, offering detailed data on sleep duration, quality, and stages. Combined with stress monitoring, the watch encourages users to maintain a balanced lifestyle by providing actionable insights into their overall well-being.

Exercise Modes and GPS Tracking

With support for over 150 exercise types, the Redmi Watch 5 caters to a wide array of fitness activities, from running and cycling to yoga and swimming. Its built-in GPS ensures accurate tracking of outdoor activities, allowing users to map their runs or bike rides without needing to carry their smartphones.

For runners, the watch offers specialized training plans tailored to different fitness levels and goals. Whether you’re preparing for a marathon or just starting a jogging routine, these plans provide structured guidance to help you improve.

Call Handling and Smart Features

One of the standout additions to the Redmi Watch 5 is its built-in microphone and speaker, enabling users to handle phone calls directly from their wrist. This feature is especially handy when you’re on the move or your phone is out of reach. The sound quality is surprisingly clear for a device in this price range, making it a practical solution for quick calls.

However, the smartwatch does have some limitations. It lacks NFC support for contactless payments and does not include a voice assistant. While these omissions might be deal-breakers for some, they are understandable given the watch’s budget-friendly price point.

Durability and Water Resistance

The Redmi Watch 5 is built to endure the rigors of daily life. With a water resistance rating of 5 ATM, it can be worn while swimming or during rainy runs. However, Xiaomi advises against exposing the watch to hot water, such as in showers or saunas, as this could compromise its durability.

The aluminum alloy casing and robust display further enhance its resilience, ensuring that the watch remains in pristine condition even after weeks of regular use. This durability makes it a reliable companion for both everyday wear and outdoor adventures.

Notifications and Battery Life

Staying connected is seamless with the Redmi Watch 5’s notification support. The watch delivers alerts for calls, messages, and app notifications with a strong vibration motor that ensures you won’t miss important updates. However, the notification handling is basic, as the watch does not allow for replying directly from the device.

Battery life is another area where the Redmi Watch 5 excels. Thanks to its efficient hardware and software optimization, the watch can easily last up to 10 days on a single charge with typical usage. Even with heavy use of features like GPS and heart rate monitoring, it can go several days without needing a recharge. This longevity makes it a practical choice for users who don’t want the hassle of frequent charging.

Price and Value Proposition

At just £90, the Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5 delivers an impressive array of features that are typically found in much more expensive devices. Its premium design, AMOLED display, comprehensive health tracking, and practical smart features make it a standout option in the budget smartwatch segment.

While it does have some limitations, such as the lack of NFC and voice assistant functionality, these are minor compromises considering the value it offers. For users seeking a reliable and stylish smartwatch without breaking the bank, the Redmi Watch 5 is an excellent choice.

Final Verdict

The Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5 redefines what a budget smartwatch can be. By combining premium design elements with robust fitness tracking and smart features, it offers an experience that rivals devices costing twice as much. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a tech-savvy professional, or someone looking for a stylish accessory, this watch has something for everyone.

In a market flooded with options, the Redmi Watch 5 stands out as a beacon of affordability and quality. Xiaomi has once again proven that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy the benefits of a modern smartwatch. If you’re in the market for a new wearable, the Redmi Watch 5 deserves a spot at the top of your list.