Xiaomi Watch 5 vs Xiaomi Watch S5

Xiaomi Watch 5 vs Xiaomi Watch S5 – What Are the Differences?

Over the past few years, Xiaomi has built up an impressive range of smartwatches. With the introduction of the Xiaomi Watch S5, the popular Xiaomi Watch 5 now has strong competition from within Xiaomi’s own line-up. Both models feature a premium design, extensive health-tracking functions, and support for more than 150 sports modes. However, there are some clear differences.

Are you looking for a new Xiaomi smartwatch and deciding between the Xiaomi Watch 5 and the Xiaomi Watch S5? In this comparison, we take a closer look at all the key differences and similarities.

Specifications Overview

Source: Official Xiaomi specifications

Display and Screen

When it comes to display quality, both watches rank among the best Xiaomi smartwatches currently available.

The Xiaomi Watch 5 features a slightly larger 1.54-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 480 x 480 pixels. The screen reaches a maximum brightness of 1,500 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even outdoors.

The Xiaomi Watch S5 comes with a slightly smaller 1.48-inch AMOLED display but offers a significantly higher brightness level of up to 2,500 nits. This makes the screen exceptionally easy to read, even in bright sunlight. In addition, the pixel density is slightly higher at 323 PPI compared to 312 PPI on the Watch 5.

While the Watch 5 has a marginally larger display, the higher brightness and sharper image quality give the Watch S5 a narrow advantage in this category.

Design and Comfort

Both smartwatches feature a premium stainless-steel case.

The Xiaomi Watch 5 has a robust appearance, with a 47 mm case and a weight of 56 grams. As a result, it feels slightly more substantial on the wrist.

The Xiaomi Watch S5 is a little more compact, with a 46 mm case diameter, a thickness of just 10.99 mm, and a weight of 46 grams. This makes it noticeably lighter and more comfortable to wear during everyday activities and workouts. The S5 is also available in a range of premium finishes, including ceramic and forged carbon.

Xiaomi Watch 5 Colours

• Black
• Juniper Green

Xiaomi Watch S5 Colours

• Black
• Silver
• Ceramic Blue
• Jungle Green

The lighter case, wider choice of materials, and additional colour options make the S5 a more appealing option for most users.

Battery Life

Here we see two very different approaches.

The Xiaomi Watch 5 runs Wear OS and is powered by the Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 processor. This gives users access to thousands of apps, but it comes at the expense of battery life. Xiaomi claims up to 6 days of usage in Smart Mode and up to 18 days in Power Saving Mode.

The Xiaomi Watch S5 runs HyperOS 3 and is considerably more power-efficient. Thanks to its 815 mAh battery, the smartwatch can last up to 21 days on a single charge.

For users who prefer to charge their smartwatch as infrequently as possible, the Watch S5 is clearly the better choice.

Sports and Health Features

Both models support more than 150 sports modes and offer comprehensive tracking for:

• Running
• Walking
• Cycling
• Swimming
• Strength Training
• HIIT
• Yoga
• Winter Sports

In addition, both smartwatches feature:

• Continuous heart rate monitoring
• SpO2 monitoring
• Sleep tracking
• Stress monitoring
• Training analysis
• Built-in GPS

The Xiaomi Watch 5 focuses more on smartwatch functionality thanks to Wear OS, Google Maps, Google Wallet, and access to the Google Play Store. This makes it the more versatile option as an everyday smartwatch.

The Xiaomi Watch S5, on the other hand, places a stronger emphasis on sports and health. Xiaomi claims a heart rate accuracy of 98.4% and adds extra training features such as advanced running analysis and support for cycling power meters.

Best Choice

For athletes: Xiaomi Watch S5

For smart features and apps: Xiaomi Watch 5

Sensors

Xiaomi Watch 5

• Heart rate sensor
• SpO2 sensor
• GPS
• Motion sensors
• NFC

Xiaomi Watch S5

• Heart rate sensor
• SpO2 sensor
• Accelerometer
• Gyroscope
• Ambient light sensor
• Electronic compass
• Barometer
• GNSS positioning

The Watch S5 offers a more comprehensive sensor package for sports and outdoor activities.

Price

Exact pricing varies by retailer, but in general:

The S5 offers longer battery life, a brighter display, and additional sensors at a lower price point.

Where Is the Xiaomi Watch 5 Better?

The Xiaomi Watch 5 is particularly appealing for users looking for a true smartwatch experience.

Advantages

• Wear OS
• Google Play Store
• Google Maps
• Google Wallet
• Wider app availability
• Smarter everyday functionality

Where Is the Xiaomi Watch S5 Better?

The Xiaomi Watch S5 is aimed more at athletes and users who prioritise maximum battery life.

Advantages

• Up to 21 days of battery life
• 2,500 nits brightness
• Lower weight
• Barometer and compass
• More premium finishes
• Lower price

Conclusion

The Xiaomi Watch 5 and Xiaomi Watch S5 are both excellent smartwatches, but they cater to different types of users.

If you're primarily looking for a smartwatch similar to a Samsung Galaxy Watch or Google Pixel Watch, with access to apps, Google services, and extensive smart features, then the Xiaomi Watch 5 is the better choice.

However, if you're looking for a smartwatch focused on sports, health tracking, and long battery life, the Xiaomi Watch S5 offers better overall value. Thanks to its lighter design, brighter display, more comprehensive sensor package, and battery life of up to 21 days, it is likely to be the more attractive option for most athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the biggest difference between the Xiaomi Watch 5 and Xiaomi Watch S5?

The biggest difference is the operating system. The Watch 5 runs Wear OS and provides access to the Google Play Store, while the Watch S5 runs HyperOS 3 and focuses more on battery life and sports features.

Can I swap the watch straps on both models?

Yes, both the Xiaomi Watch 5 straps and Xiaomi Watch S5 straps are 22 mm wide and can be easily changed thanks to the quick-release system.

Which smartwatch has the best battery life?

The Xiaomi Watch S5 is the clear winner, with battery life of up to 21 days. The Xiaomi Watch 5 offers up to 18 days in Power Saving Mode and around 6 days in Smart Mode.

Which smartwatch has the brightest display?

The Xiaomi Watch S5 features a peak brightness of 2,500 nits, compared to 1,500 nits on the Xiaomi Watch 5. This makes it easier to read in direct sunlight.

Can I use WhatsApp on both watches?

Yes on the Xiaomi Watch 5, thanks to Wear OS and the Google Play Store. On the Xiaomi Watch S5, you are limited to the functions and app support provided by Xiaomi.

Which smartwatch is better for athletes?

For most athletes, the Xiaomi Watch S5 is the better choice thanks to its longer battery life, more comprehensive sensor package, higher screen brightness, and stronger focus on sports tracking.