Emily Thompson
Xiaomi has expanded its Smart Band collection, introducing three unique models with the Band 9 Active positioned as the budget-friendly option. Retailing at an attractive €30, it undercuts the standard Smart Band 9 in price but not in features.
The Band 9 Active features a 1.47-inch TFT display, offering a 60Hz refresh rate. Although this translates to a screen that’s dimmer than its OLED counterparts and surrounded by noticeable bezels, its design prioritizes comfort. Weighing a mere 16.5 grams and having a thickness of 9.99mm, the device is perfectly suited for all-day wear.
Customization shines through with over 100 watch faces available via the Mi Fitness app. There are various strap options to suit individual styles, including a standard black strap and a more vibrant black and green version.
This smart band is equipped with a PPG sensor, crucial for monitoring heart rate and blood oxygen levels. Additionally, it offers comprehensive wellness insights with sleep and stress tracking features, as well as activity tracking across more than 50 sports modes. While the absence of a built-in GPS is noted, its 5ATM water resistance makes it ideal for water activities.
The box includes a magnetic charger, consistent with previous models, ensuring ease of use. Powering this device is a 300mAh battery, which Xiaomi claims can last up to 18 days under normal usage—a claim that piques interest as users eagerly await verification through practical testing.
Why Xiaomi’s Band 9 Active is the Budget Wearable to Watch
Xiaomi’s foray into the wearable market continues to impress with the introduction of the Band 9 Active, a standout in its Smart Band collection. Priced at a competitive €30, it curiously balances affordability with functionality, setting itself apart in a crowded marketplace.
Specifications and Features
The Band 9 Active is not just another budget gadget; it packs a surprising array of features for its price. At the core of its design is a 1.47-inch TFT display sporting a 60Hz refresh rate for that smooth user experience. While it sacrifices the brightness seen in OLED displays, its ergonomic build—16.5 grams in weight and a thin 9.99mm profile—ensures prolonged comfort.
Customization is a significant advantage of the Band 9 Active. Via the Mi Fitness app, users can access over 100 watch faces, allowing personal expression to flourish. With several strap options, including a vivid black and green variant alongside the classic black, personal style is at the forefront.
Health and Fitness Tracking
On the wellness front, the Band 9 Active is equipped with a PPG sensor, effectively tracking heart rate and blood oxygen levels—features that are often limited in budget-friendly devices. Beyond these, it offers a gamut of health monitoring tools, such as sleep analysis and stress level tracking, as well as diverse activity tracking capabilities across more than 50 sports modes.
Its practicality for swimmers and those engaging in water activities is ensured by its 5ATM water resistance, though the absence of integrated GPS might be a consideration for some fitness enthusiasts.
Battery Life and Usability
A notable selling point is its touted longevity; Xiaomi claims the band’s 300mAh battery can support up to 18 days of normal usage, a claim that sets expectations high pending user verification. Charging remains hassle-free with its included magnetic charger, ensuring a seamless transition for users possibly migrating from past models.
Market Impact and Trends
This release positions Xiaomi strategically in the budget wearables sector, appealing to consumers seeking feature-rich devices without breaking the bank. The Band 9 Active’s competitive price and capabilities potentially disrupt the market, setting a new standard for affordability and performance.
Given its combination of features and affordability, the Band 9 Active is poised to become a leader among budget wearables. As the landscape of tech trends shifts towards more inclusive price points with sustained quality, Xiaomi’s latest band emerges as a real crowd-pleaser.
For more insights into Xiaomi’s innovations and product offerings, visit their official website at Xiaomi.
