Redmi has officially unveiled its latest smartwatch, the Redmi Watch 5, alongside the Redmi K80 series and new TWS earbuds. As a successor to last year’s Redmi Watch 4, this new model brings a handful of notable improvements while sticking to the brand’s practical and budget-friendly ethos.
Bigger and Brighter Display
One of the standout upgrades is the 2.07-inch AMOLED screen, which is both larger and brighter than before, peaking at 1,500 nits. The bezels have been slimmed down for a more modern look, while the 60Hz refresh rate ensures smooth visuals.
Design and Build
The aluminum frame gives the Watch 5 a solid and premium feel, complemented by a metal dial on the side for navigating the interface. It’s a straightforward design, but the improvements in materials make it feel like a step up from its predecessor.
Xiaomi HyperOS 2 and eSIM Option
Redmi Watch 5 is one of the first wearables to launch with Xiaomi HyperOS 2, promising a smoother user experience. For those who want standalone functionality, there’s an eSIM version, letting you make calls and send messages without needing your phone nearby—a handy addition for users on the go.
Health Tracking and Sensors
Xiaomi has also upgraded the health tracking capabilities, boasting a 97.1% accuracy rate for heart-rate monitoring. You’ll also find standard features like blood oxygen tracking, sleep analysis, and stress monitoring. The watch includes a built-in GNSS positioning sensor, which is ideal for tracking outdoor activities and sports.
Battery Life
The Watch 5 packs a 550mAh battery, offering up to 24 days of normal usage. Even with the Always-On Display mode, it’s rated for 12 days—impressive numbers for a smartwatch in this range.
My Take
The Redmi Watch 5 feels like a thoughtful upgrade, particularly with its brighter display, eSIM option, and improved health tracking. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable yet capable smartwatch. The extended battery life and HyperOS 2 integration are the cherry on top, making this a well-rounded wearable that doesn’t break the bank.
I’ll be keeping an eye on how it performs in real-world usage, but so far, it looks like Redmi has delivered another winner in the smartwatch category.