## Xiaomi Smart Band 8 vs Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro: Detailed Comparison
It’s hard to choose between the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 and the Smart Band 8 Pro. Both offer fitness tracking, but each is designed for different needs and budgets. Let’s do a detailed comparison to help you decide which one is right for you.
Design & Display
The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 has a comfortable, lightweight design that doesn’t catch the eye when worn on the wrist. The 1.62-inch AMOLED display is bright and vibrant, with a smooth 60Hz refresh rate, making it easy to read even in direct sunlight. The sleek and understated design is perfect for everyday use. However, the strap mechanism is a bit unreliable and can lead to accidental loss.
On the other hand, the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro boasts a more premium design thanks to its metal frame and Victus glass. The larger 1.74-inch AMOLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate provides a crisp image and smooth navigation. The watch is slightly larger and more noticeable on the wrist, but it’s lightweight and comfortable to wear. Interchangeable straps can be customized to your liking.
Fitness Tracking & Battery
Both wristbands provide accurate and consistent heart rate, SpO2, and stress monitoring.
The Smart Band 8 has a full suite of workout modes, many of which are variations of the same analysis. Because the wristband doesn’t have built-in GPS, accurate distance tracking relies on a smartphone, which is a drawback for runners who prefer to leave their phone behind. Sleep stage tracking isn’t the most accurate either, so it’s best to focus on total sleep time rather than detailed sleep stages. Battery life is decent, lasting 4-6 days with normal use and charging quickly.
The Smart Band 8 Pro has built-in GNSS positioning for accurate location tracking without a cell phone. Over 150 exercises are supported, with some exercises. The Mi Fitness app is comprehensive and offers a wide range of customization options. However, heart rate monitoring can be inconsistent and GPS tracking is not accurate, sometimes showing routes through buildings. Battery life is similar to the Smart Band 8: 5-6 days with the display on.
User Impressions
The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 is easy to use. The display is bright and easy to read, and menu navigation is smooth. The extensive customization options for the watch face and widgets are a plus. However, interaction with notifications is limited, and you can’t reply to messages directly from the wristband. Notifications from apps and payment options are also limited on the Chinese version.
The Smart Band 8 Pro offers a more sophisticated user experience with a larger display and more features. The Mi Fitness app is easy to use, but the watch face customization options are limited. The notification system is basic, and you can’t reply to messages or delete emails from the watch. The UI can sometimes jerk, indicating performance shortcomings. The watch isn’t very user-friendly. The lack of a voice assistant is also a drawback for some users.
Pros and Cons of Xiaomi Smart Band 8
Pros:
- Affordable price range: Excellent value for money for the features offered.
- Bright and vibrant AMOLED display: Easy to read in different lighting conditions.
- Comfortable, lightweight design: can be worn all day without getting in the way.
- Accurate health monitoring: Continuous tracking of heart rate, SpO2 and stress.
- Long battery life: 4-6 days with regular use and fast charging.
Disadvantages:
- Unreliable strap mechanism: Can be accidentally lost.
- Unable to reply to messages.
- Unstable heart rate tracking.
- Inaccurate sleep stage tracking.
- No built-in GPS: A phone is required to accurately track distance.
Pros and Cons of Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro
Pros:
- Elegant and durable design: Metal frame and Victus glass protection.
- Large AMOLED display: Clear image and smooth user interface navigation.
- Good battery life: 5-6 days with constant use.
- Wide functionality: Over 150 exercises in the Mi Fitness app.
- Built-in GNSS positioning function: Accurate location tracking without a phone call.
Disadvantages:
- Heart rate monitoring is unstable: Measurements may be too high or too low.
- GPS tracking is not accurate.
- Limited watch face customization options: some offer very few color options.
- No ability to respond to notifications: or delete emails from the watch.
- There may be rattling when navigating the user interface, indicating performance limitations.
Final Thoughts
The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 is a great choice for those looking for an affordable and reliable fitness tracker with a good display and basic health tracking features. It’s perfect for everyday use and regular workouts. However, if you want more advanced features like built-in GPS and more accurate tracking, the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro is worth spending the extra money. Just be aware that the accuracy of the heart rate and GPS measurement is limited. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget.