If you’ve got around $300 to spend on a smartwatch, you’ve likely come across the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro and the Garmin Vivoactive 5.
Picking the right one can be a tough call, especially when you’re trying to figure out the differences between them. That’s where this guide comes in handy.
We’re going to compare the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro vs Garmin Vivoactive 5, looking closely at their features and specs. Our goal is to help you understand which watch might be the better fit for you.
So, if you’re stuck on which one to choose, stick around as we delve into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro vs Garmin Vivoactive 5: Price & Availability
The Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro, which hit the market in September 2023, usually sells for about $270. This makes it a bit easier on the wallet if you’re looking for a smartwatch that won’t break the bank.
On the other hand, the Garmin Vivoactive 5, also released in September 2023, carries a price tag of $300. Both watches are fairly new releases, so they’re readily available.
Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro vs Garmin Vivoactive 5: Specs Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro | Garmin Vivoactive 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | Sapphire crystal front, stainless steel frame, plastic back, various straps | Fiber-reinforced polymer, Corning® Gorilla® Glass 3, Stainless steel bezel, silicone straps |
| Shape | Round | Round |
| Dimension | 47.6 x 45.9 x 11.8 mm | 42.2 x 42.2 x 11.1 mm |
| Physical Buttons | 2 + 1 rotating crown | 2 |
| Display Type | AMOLED | AMOLED |
| Resolution | 466 x 466 pixels, up to 600 nits | 390 x 390 pixels |
| Screen Size | 1.43 inch | 1.3 inch |
| Weight | 54.6 grams (without strap) | 36 grams (without strap) |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, barometer, gyroscope, ambient light sensor, electronic compass, body temperature, ECG | HRM, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Pulse Ox, Thermometer, Ambient light |
| Water-resistance | 5 ATM | 5 ATM |
| GPS | DUAL Band Five-system GNSS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO |
| Built-in Speaker | Yes | No |
| Microphone | Yes | Yes |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Music Storage | Yes | Yes |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi |
| Cellular Connectivity | Yes (optional) | No |
| Battery Type | 495 mAh (85 minute charging time) | N/A |
| Battery Life | Bluetooth version (up to 65 hours), LTE version (up to 55 hours) | Up to 11 days (smartwatch), 5 days (AOD), 21 days (Battery Saver), 21 hours (GPS) |
| Operating System | MIUI layered on top of Wear OS 3.5 | Garmin OS |
| Colors | Black, Silver | Metallic Orchid, Slate, Cream Gold, Metallic Navy |
| Price | Starting at $270 | $300 |
Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro vs Garmin Vivoactive 5: Design & Display
When it comes to their appearance, both watches sport a classic round shape and are made with premium materials.
The Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro catches the eye with its sapphire crystal display, which is highly resistant to scratches. Coupled with a stainless steel frame, it feels both durable and upscale, although the plastic back does take away a bit from its high-end vibe. The Garmin Vivoactive 5, on the other hand, goes for a tough yet lightweight approach. It features a case crafted from fiber-reinforced polymer and a stainless steel bezel, with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 adding an extra layer of durability.
Size-wise, the two watches come in one size each, with the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro being the larger at 47.6 x 45.9 x 11.8 mm, making it more noticeable on the wrist than the more compact and sleek Vivoactive 5, which measures 42.2 x 42.2 x 11.1 mm.
For navigating through menus and apps, the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro includes a rotating crown and two flat buttons, offering a straightforward experience. Meanwhile, the Vivoactive 5 keeps things simple with two flat buttons, striking a good mix between touchscreen and physical button navigation.
The display on the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro is a 1.43-inch AMOLED screen, boasting a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels for bright and clear visuals. The Vivoactive 5 also features an AMOLED display but with a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels.
Color choices are a bit limited for the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro, available in just Black or Silver. The Vivoactive 5, however, offers more variety with colors like Metallic Orchid, Slate, Cream Gold, and Metallic Navy, giving it a sporty yet sophisticated look.
You don’t have to worry about getting either watch wet. Both the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro and the Garmin Vivoactive 5 are rated at 5 ATM for water resistance, meaning they’re equipped to handle splashes, swimming, and other water activities without any problems.
Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro vs Garmin Vivoactive 5: Health & Fitness Features
Both watches are celebrated for their fitness-tracking capabilities, with Garmin traditionally seen as the frontrunner in this space. However, the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro brings to the table some advanced features not found on the Vivoactive 5.
To begin with, both watches are well-equipped with essential sensors like an accelerometer, barometer, gyroscope, ambient light sensor, and geomagnetic sensor for a comprehensive tracking experience. But they each take a unique approach when it comes to health and wellness metrics.
The Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro takes a holistic view of health tracking. Beyond just counting steps and monitoring heart rate, it offers stress management tools, sleep quality analysis, and body temperature monitoring. The addition of ECG readings is a standout feature, offering valuable insights into heart health that will appeal to those focused on their wellbeing.
On the fitness side, the Vivoactive 5 introduces specialized features such as a push tracker and a weight shift alert, making it particularly useful for specific workout routines. It’s also designed with a wide variety of activity profiles, catering even to wheelchair users, showcasing its versatility. For those dedicated to their fitness journey, the Vivoactive 5 enhances workout planning with tools like recovery time assessment, HRV (Heart Rate Variability) status, and interval training options.
Regarding location tracking, the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro steps it up with multi-band five-system GNSS support, promising superior accuracy over traditional GPS, GLONASS, and GALILEO systems. This feature is especially beneficial for outdoor activities where precise location tracking is crucial.
Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro vs Garmin Vivoactive 5: Other Features
The Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro and the Garmin Vivoactive 5 both pack in all the essentials you’d expect from a smartwatch, such as notifications, weather updates, and more. They each operate on their unique systems, with the Xiaomi using MIUI on top of Wear OS and Garmin running its own custom software.
Where the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro really stands out is in its support for third-party apps, LTE connectivity, and the inclusion of built-in speakers and microphones. These features not only enhance its usability but also its versatility, allowing for a broader range of functions directly from your wrist.
Although the Garmin Vivoactive 5 doesn’t come with cellular connectivity, it’s not short on smart capabilities. It features its own on-device Connect IQ Store for apps and watch faces, can sync settings in real-time with the Garmin Connect Mobile app, and even lets you view images from Android notifications. This suite of features ensures that the Vivoactive 5 is a smart companion for both daily use and during workouts.
NFC technology is a win for both watches, making contactless payments a breeze. This convenience is a big plus for users who prefer to leave their wallets at home during a run or while out and about.
When it comes to music, neither watch disappoints. Both offer the option to store music directly on the device, allowing you to enjoy your favorite tunes or podcasts without needing your phone. Whether you’re a Xiaomi fan or lean towards Garmin, both watches offer compelling features beyond their health and fitness tracking capabilities.
Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro vs Garmin Vivoactive 5: Battery Life
The Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro certainly impresses with its battery life, offering up to 65 hours of use on the Bluetooth version, and a solid 55 hours even when using LTE. This means you can easily get through more than two days on a single charge, which is pretty handy for staying connected without constant recharging.
However, the Garmin Vivoactive 5 takes battery performance to another level. It can last up to 11 days in smartwatch mode, and if you’re looking to extend its lifespan even further, the battery saver mode will keep it going for an astonishing 21 days. For those who love spending time outdoors, its GPS mode can run up to 21 hours, making it perfect for long hikes, runs, or any adventure that takes you away from a power source for extended periods.
Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro vs Garmin Vivoactive 5: Final Verdict
We hope this comparison has given you a clearer idea of the differences between these two smartwatches, making it easier to decide which one might be right for you. Although they’re quite different, choosing a winner depends on what you value most in a smartwatch.
The Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro leans more towards being a versatile smartwatch. It’s stylish, larger, and offers a wealth of apps thanks to Wear OS. Features like LTE support, advanced health monitoring including ECG, and a built-in mic for calls, position it as a strong contender for those who want a smartwatch that does it all.
On the other hand, the Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a powerhouse for fitness enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. It’s not just about tracking your fitness; it’s about enhancing it, with detailed health insights, specialized activity profiles, and a robust build suited to withstand the elements. Plus, its impressive battery life ensures it keeps up with even the most demanding activities.
In essence, if you’re after a smartwatch that blends style with smart features, the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro is a fantastic choice. But if your focus is on fitness tracking and outdoor adventures, the Garmin Vivoactive 5’s durability and specialized features make it hard to beat.
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