Xiaomi Redmi Watch 4 vs. Watch 5 Active

Introduction

These days, we’re so used to checking the time on our phones that smartwatches feel like a nice-to-have, but not a must. But as phones keep getting bigger, taking them out just to check the time is becoming more inconvenient. This is especially true for people who find it hard to read the hands on an analog watch. That’s where a watch with a bright, clear screen (600 nits or more) can make a big difference.

I was looking for a smartwatch to gift a friend and ended up comparing the Xiaomi Redmi Watch 4 and Watch 5. Surprisingly, the newer Watch 5 Active was cheaper, which made me curious. In the end, I chose the Watch 4, and here’s why.

Features (Watch 4 vs. Watch 5 Active)

First off, the Watch 4 comes with GPS. This is handy for people who enjoy hiking or traveling since it also has a built-in compass.

But the real reason I picked the Watch 4 was because of its AOD (Always On Display) feature. Like the more expensive iPhone 14 Pro and Apple Watch 10, the Watch 4’s display always shows the time and important details. AMOLED screens only light up the necessary parts, so it doesn’t drain the battery too much.

As of October 2024, the Apple Watch SE2 doesn’t have the AOD feature to keep the price lower. This just shows that AOD is seen as a premium feature, and even if it affects battery life a bit, it’s worth having on a smartwatch.

Comparison of Features 

Category	Redmi Watch 4	Redmi Watch 5 Active
Display Type	AMOLED	IPS LED
GPS	Yes (Compass, Gyro)	No
Weight	31.5g	42.2g
PPI	302	250
AOD (Always On Display)	Yes	No
Usage Time	20 days, 10 days (AOD)	18 days
Price	$106.99 (Amazon.com)	$31.99 (Aliexpress.com)

A Smartwatch That’s Useless When the Screen is Off

AOD (Always On Display) on the Redmi Watch 4

One of the most important features of a smartwatch or a watch is displaying the time. Without an always-on display (AOD), you have to wake the screen. This can be inconvenient, especially when your hands are full, like when you’re holding a bus handrail. The Watch 4, however, shows the time clearly at 600 nits when the screen is on and has large, easy-to-read numbers with AOD active.

While the focus here is on the screen, it’s worth noting that the Watch 4 also tracks blood oxygen levels, heart rate, and stress, which are pretty standard features in smartwatches nowadays.

(reference: https://www.mi.com/kr/product/redmi-watch-4/)

Price and Downsides

On Amazon.com, the Watch 4 sells for around $106.99. Interestingly, the Watch 5 isn’t available in the U.S., likely because it doesn’t have enough features to justify importing. Retailers seem to follow the idea that “you can’t go wrong with a pricier option.” However, it’s a bit disappointing that the price nearly triples for the Watch 4 just because of the screen improvements. Another important downside is battery life. While the Watch 4 claims a 20-day battery life, that drops to 10 days if you use AOD.

Conclusion

In this review, the spotlight was on the Redmi Watch 4’s AOD feature—a seemingly small addition that makes a big difference when you just want to check the time without the hassle. Xiaomi seems to be nudging budget-conscious consumers to splurge a little for premium features, and honestly, if you’re tired of staring at a blank screen, the AOD is worth it.

Sure, you could go for the Apple Watch 10 at $399, but why pay more when the Redmi Watch 4 gives you the same “time-telling superpower” for a fraction of the price? It’s a solid choice for anyone who wants to actually use their smartwatch to tell time.