Xiaomi has made waves in the wearable tech market with its latest release, the Redmi Watch 5, which hit the shelves in November 2024, initially in China. After its global launch in January 2025, we had the chance to test this device. Here's our detailed assessment of its design, features, and overall performance.
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The Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5 impresses at a budget-friendly price of €110, delivering a combination of style and functionality that makes it a solid choice for consumers.
Design
The unboxing experience reveals an elegantly crafted aluminum alloy watch, accompanied by a Lavender Purple TPU strap that gives off a premium vibe. Xiaomi thoughtfully includes two additional straps: a Cream White cowhide leather strap and a Rose Purple velcro strap, both of which enhance the watch's aesthetic appeal. The Lavender Purple strap, in particular, stood out as both versatile and durable.
While the design bears a resemblance to that of the Apple Watch, which could lead to comparisons, it does serve to highlight the value of the Redmi Watch in the budget wearable market.
Display
Equipped with a 2.07" AMOLED display, the Redmi Watch 5 showcases Xiaomi's commitment to quality, boasting a remarkable 82% screen-to-body ratio and a brightness peaking at 1,500 nits. With a 2.5D curved screen, it enhances touch responsiveness, offering a rich visual experience often found in high-end devices.
The watch supports different refresh rates, ensuring an even longer battery life while maintaining stunning color vibrancy. Its Always-On Display (AOD) features two modes, providing users with flexibility in viewing their notifications and watch faces.
Software & Hardware
Compatible with the Mi Fitness app, the Redmi Watch 5 provides users with seamless management of fitness metrics, notifications, and alarms. The interface is user-friendly but somewhat basic, prioritizing simplicity over complexity. However, only a limited selection of emojis are supported within notifications.
With the introduction of a new AFE chip for improved heart rate and sleep tracking accuracy, the watch's performance in these areas still leaves room for refinement, especially for those who move a lot during sleep.
Activity & Health Tracking
Offering over 150 sports modes, along with features like blood oxygen saturation and stress monitoring, the Redmi Watch 5 is equipped for diverse fitness tracking. However, the GNSS system's performance is inconsistent, which may affect outdoor activity tracking.
While the watch offers running courses and breathing exercises for users, its accuracy during running may lead to a less reliable experience.
Battery Life & Charging
One standout feature is the impressive battery life. Although Xiaomi utilizes a proprietary pogo pin for charging, which could become a limitation in the future, the watch's longevity is a strong asset. Users can expect about 15 days of battery life with frequent use, with a full charge achieved in just 60 minutes.
Verdict
Retailing for €110, the Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5 offers an attractive option for consumers seeking an affordable, reliable smartwatch. While it may not boast cutting-edge software or advanced health tracking capabilities, its stylish design and outstanding battery life make it a compelling choice among budget wearables.
Overall, the Redmi Watch 5 strikes a good balance between functionality and value, catering to those who prioritize notifications and basic health monitoring.
Pros
- Stylish design that feels premium.
- Bright, vibrant display.
- Exceptional battery life.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Inconsistent GNSS performance.
- Less accurate sleep and health tracking.
- Basic user interface lacking advanced features.
