Xiaomi Watch S5: Battery Champion with Smartwatch Limits
The Xiaomi Watch S5 delivers exceptional endurance and robust fitness tracking, but it sacrifices interactive smartwatch capabilities to achieve this balance.
Xiaomi has positioned the new Watch S5 as a device that prioritizes longevity over digital versatility. While the stainless steel case and bright display offer a premium look, the watch functions primarily as a high-end fitness tracker rather than a full-fledged smartwatch. The core trade-off is clear: you gain weeks of battery life and precise health metrics, but you lose the ability to install third-party apps or reply to messages directly from the wrist.
According to testing by Notebookcheck, the device excels in its primary role. It records heart rate and blood oxygen levels with accuracy comparable to professional chest straps, and its dual-band GNSS provides reliable location tracking for runners and cyclists. However, users looking for a traditional smartwatch experience will find the interface restrictive. Notifications can be viewed but not interacted with, and the lack of app support means the watch cannot serve as a standalone hub for other services.
Endurance Is The Main Selling Point
Battery performance is the standout feature of the S5. In real-world testing, the watch lasted 15 days with health monitoring and sleep tracking enabled. Even with the always-on display active, it maintained a 10-day lifespan. This endurance makes it suitable for users who are tired of daily charging routines. The bright AMOLED screen, which reaches high brightness levels, ensures readability in direct sunlight, further supporting its use as an outdoor companion.
The build quality complements this durability. The 46-millimeter stainless steel case feels solid and lightweight, weighing about 46 grams without the strap. It includes a rotating crown and two physical buttons for navigation. While the design is sleek and modern, the device is not designed for user repair, and Xiaomi has provided limited information on sustainability. The packaging is largely plastic-free but remains shrink-wrapped, a minor inconsistency in its environmental claims.
Fitness Tracking Outperforms Smart Features
For athletes, the S5 offers over 150 sports modes and extensive training data. The dual-band GNSS system, which uses multiple satellite constellations, generally provides accurate tracking, though some tests noted that the recorded path did not always perfectly match the actual route. The heart rate sensor performs particularly well, matching the precision of dedicated sports monitors. However, serious athletes may be disappointed by the lack of support for external chest straps, which is a common feature in competing devices.
The watch works seamlessly with both Android and iOS devices, which is a significant advantage over many competitors that restrict iPhone compatibility. Setup is straightforward via the Mi Fitness app. Despite these strengths, the interface has some rough edges. Some translations of menu elements were inconsistent, and navigation features are limited. The device is best suited for users who want a reliable tool for monitoring their health and activity without the complexity of a full operating system.
Accessibility And Price Considerations
The Xiaomi Watch S5 is available in four color options, with prices starting at 180 euros for standard finishes and 200 euros for special editions. It is sold directly through Xiaomi and major retailers like Amazon. At this price point, it competes with other mid-range smartwatches, but its value proposition is different. You are paying for a durable, long-lasting fitness tool rather than a digital assistant. If your priority is staying connected and interactive, the S5 will feel restrictive. If your priority is tracking workouts and avoiding the charger, it is a strong contender.
The catch is that the S5 does not try to be everything. It is a specialized device that excels at what it does, which is monitoring the body and tracking movement. For the average consumer who wants a smartwatch that can handle emails, apps, and complex interactions, the S5 is not the right choice. But for the fitness enthusiast who values battery life and sensor accuracy above all else, it offers a compelling package with minimal compromises in its core functions.
