Comparing Forerunner 45 and Mi Band
Choosing the right smartwatch or fitness tracker can be a daunting task, especially with the countless options available in the market today. Two popular options to consider are the Garmin Forerunner 45 and the Xiaomi Mi Band. The Forerunner 45, released by Garmin in 2019, stands out with its advanced fitness tracking features, while the cost-effective Mi Band by Xiaomi, launched in 2015, offers basic tracking capabilities.
Selecting the best-suited wearable device depends on one’s preferences and requirements. Both Garmin and Xiaomi are reputable brands in the smartwear industry. Garmin specializes in GPS technology and is well-known for its high-quality fitness trackers and smartwatches. Xiaomi, a Chinese electronics company, has made considerable strides in the wearables market with its affordable Mi Band fitness trackers.
In this comparison, we will delve into the design and build, features and functionality, user experience, price and value, and frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision while choosing between the Garmin Forerunner 45 and the Xiaomi Mi Band.
Design and Build
Garmin Forerunner 45
The Garmin Forerunner 45 features a circular design with a 1.04-inch sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) LCD color display. The device boasts a screen resolution of 208 x 208 pixels and weighs 36 grams. The watch case is made of fiber-reinforced polymer, and the strap is crafted from silicone.
Xiaomi Mi Band
The Xiaomi Mi Band sports an oval design with an OLED display. Its dimensions and weight are not specified by the manufacturer. The Mi Band features an aluminium alloy sensor and a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) strap, ensuring comfort on the wrist.
Comparison of Design and Build Quality
While both devices showcase distinct designs, the Garmin Forerunner 45 offers a more premium look with its round screen and color display. The Xiaomi Mi Band, on the other hand, is geared towards users who prefer a minimalist design with a monochrome OLED display. In terms of build quality, both devices are durable and well-crafted, although the Forerunner 45 features a more robust exterior with its fiber-reinforced polymer case.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Forerunner 45
The Forerunner 45 operates on Garmin’s proprietary built-in operating system. Equipped with GPS, a heart rate monitor, accelerometer, and barometric altimeter, it offers comprehensive fitness tracking capabilities such as distance, calories, steps, sleep, swimming, and cycling. The device boasts a battery life of up to 7 days and is compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones.
Xiaomi Mi Band
While the Xiaomi Mi Band does not have a specified operating system, its features cater to users seeking basic fitness tracking functionalities. It can monitor steps, sleep, and calories, but lacks a built-in GPS and heart rate monitor. The device’s battery life lasts a remarkable 30 days, and it is compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones.
Comparison of Features and Performance
The Garmin Forerunner 45 outperforms the Xiaomi Mi Band in terms of fitness tracking features, thanks to its built-in GPS, heart rate monitor, cycling and swim tracking capabilities. However, the Mi Band’s impressive 30-day battery life is a noteworthy feature for those prioritizing battery longevity. The Forerunner 45 is the ideal pick for users seeking advanced tracking options, while the Mi Band caters to individuals looking for basic tracking at an affordable price.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Forerunner 45
The Forerunner 45 offers an intuitive user interface with touchscreen controls, customizable watch faces, and access to various apps via the Garmin Connect platform. Its compatibility with both Android and iOS smartphones ensures a seamless user experience.
Xiaomi Mi Band
Similar to the Forerunner 45, the Mi Band utilizes a touchscreen interface, has customizable display settings, and syncs with the Mi Fit app for added functionality. The device is compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones.
Comparison of User Interface and User Experience
Both devices offer user-friendly interfaces and compatibility with Android and iOS smartphones. However, the Garmin Forerunner 45 boasts a color-display and comprehensive app functionalities, providing a more extensive user experience compared to the Mi Band’s basic tracking features and monochrome display.
Price and Value
Garmin Forerunner 45
Priced at $199, the Garmin Forerunner 45 offers a range of advanced fitness-tracking features and an aesthetically pleasing design, making it excellent value for money for those seeking a high-performance device.
Xiaomi Mi Band
With a price tag of just $15, the Xiaomi Mi Band offers basic fitness-tracking capabilities at an unbeatable price, making it an ideal choice for individuals on a budget or for those dipping their toes into the world of wearables.
Comparison of Price and Value
While the Garmin Forerunner 45 provides a plethora of advanced features and a premium design, it comes at a higher price point compared to the Xiaomi Mi Band’s basic offerings. The choice ultimately depends on the users' individual preferences, budget, and tracking requirements.
Conclusion
Comparing the Garmin Forerunner 45 and Xiaomi Mi Band, it is evident that the Forerunner 45 excels in terms of design, extensive fitness tracking, and user experience, catering to a market seeking comprehensive tracking functionality. However, the Xiaomi Mi Band remains an attractive option for users seeking an affordable and straightforward device for basic fitness tracking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which device is more suitable for advanced fitness enthusiasts?
The Garmin Forerunner 45 is more appropriate for advanced fitness enthusiasts due to its comprehensive fitness tracking features, including GPS, heart rate monitoring, and activity-specific tracking capabilities.
Is the Xiaomi Mi Band waterproof?
The Xiaomi Mi Band features an IP67 water resistance rating, which means it is protected from dust ingress and can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. However, it is not suitable for swimming or diving.
Can the Garmin Forerunner 45 receive smartphone notifications?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 45 can receive smartphone notifications such as calls, texts, and emails when paired with a compatible Android or iOS device.
Which device is better for battery life?
The Xiaomi Mi Band offers a significantly longer battery life of up to 30 days compared to the Garmin Forerunner 45, which lasts up to 7 days on a single charge.
Is there any difference in smartphone compatibility between the two devices?
Both devices are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones. However, neither of them are compatible with Windows or Mac computers.
