Comparing Mi Band 4 and Mi Band 3
When looking for a fitness tracker, the Xiaomi Mi Band 3 and Xiaomi Mi Band 4 are popular choices, offering a range of features at an affordable price. Choosing the right watch is essential to keep track of your fitness progress and ensure compatibility with your smartphone. Xiaomi is a reputable brand, known for its cost-effective products without compromising on quality. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between the Xiaomi Mi Band 3 and Xiaomi Mi Band 4, covering design, features, user interface, price, and more to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build
Xiaomi Mi Band 3
The Mi Band 3 features a slim design, weighing 20 grams, with a 0.78-inch OLED screen, offering a resolution of 128x80 pixels. The tracker is made of durable thermoplastic elastomer material, with a 5ATM water resistance rating, making it suitable for swimming and showering. The band is available in different colors, allowing for customization.
Xiaomi Mi Band 4
With the Mi Band 4, Xiaomi made slight improvements to the design, featuring a slightly larger 0.95-inch display, using an AMOLED color screen with a 120x240 pixel resolution. The fitness tracker weighs 22 grams and comes with a vibrant colored strap. Like the Mi Band 3, this model is also equipped with a 5ATM water resistance rating.
Comparison of design and build quality
Both the Mi Band 3 and 4 have a similar slim design, but the Mi Band 4 has an improved, larger color display. Other differences include the slightly increased weight and the use of AMOLED technology in the Mi Band 4's screen. In terms of design, both devices offer an attractive, minimalist look with customizable bands and water resistance capabilities.
Features and Functionality
Xiaomi Mi Band 3
The Mi Band 3 runs on a proprietary operating system, providing fitness tracking for activities such as walking, running, cycling, and swimming. It can track steps, distance, calories burned, and sleep. The device comes equipped with a heart rate monitor, accelerometer, and barometer. The battery life is impressive, with up to 20 days of usage on a single charge. The tracker connects with smartphones using Bluetooth but lacks GPS, NFC, or Wi-Fi capabilities.
Xiaomi Mi Band 4
Running on the Amazfit OS, the Mi Band 4 offers similar fitness tracking functionalities as its predecessor, with enhanced swimming tracking features. This model also comes with a built-in GPS and NFC for mobile payments, along with Bluetooth connectivity. Like the Mi Band 3, the battery life can last up to 20 days. Additional features include music controls and an audio speaker for phone functionality.
Comparison of features and performance
Although both models offer a range of tracking and fitness features, the Mi Band 4 boasts improved swim tracking, GPS, NFC, and music control capabilities. The built-in speaker for phone functionality is another key difference between the devices. Both models excel with their remarkable battery life and connectivity options.
User Interface and User Experience
Xiaomi Mi Band 3
The OLED display on the Mi Band 3 allows users to view notifications, time, and fitness information. The device operates through the touch of a button rather than a touchscreen. It is compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones but has limited customization and app integration.
Xiaomi Mi Band 4
With the Mi Band 4's AMOLED color touchscreen display, users can enjoy a more vibrant user interface for notifications and app updates. Compatibility remains consistent with the Mi Band 3, with support for both Android and iOS devices. The user experience is enhanced with customizable interface themes and additional app support.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
Comparing the user interface and experience between the two devices, the Mi Band 4 offers a notable upgrade with its color touchscreen display and customizable interface themes. Enhanced app support also contributes to an improved experience for users, although compatibility remains the same for both models.
Price and Value
Xiaomi Mi Band 3
The Mi Band 3 offers a great-value fitness tracker with a price tag of $44.95. Although lacking some of the advanced features found in the Mi Band 4, it still offers versatile fitness tracking and notification capabilities.
Xiaomi Mi Band 4
At a slightly lower price of $25, the Mi Band 4 provides significant upgrades in terms of screen quality, features, and user experience. The added GPS, NFC, music control, and speaker make for a competitive fitness tracker at an affordable cost.
Comparison of price and value
Although the Mi Band 3 is an excellent option for those seeking an affordable fitness tracker, the Mi Band 4 offers a superior value with its upgraded features and lower price tag. The improved display, GPS, NFC, and additional functions make the Mi Band 4 a more desirable choice for fitness enthusiasts.
Conclusion
After comparing the Xiaomi Mi Band 3 and Mi Band 4, it’s evident that both fitness trackers offer substantial value for their respective prices. The Mi Band 4, however, stands out with its improved display, enhanced features, and more intuitive user experience. If you’re contemplating which device to purchase, the Mi Band 4 is a more compelling option with better value for your money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, the Xiaomi Mi Band 3 or Mi Band 4?
The Mi Band 4 is generally considered a better option due to its improved display, added features, and enhanced user experience.
Is the Xiaomi Mi Band 4 waterproof?
Both the Mi Band 3 and 4 are water-resistant up to 5ATM, meaning they can be used while swimming or showering.
How long does the battery last on the Xiaomi Mi Band 4?
The Xiaomi Mi Band 4's battery life can last up to 20 days on a single charge.
Does the Xiaomi Mi Band 4 have GPS?
Yes, the Xiaomi Mi Band 4 features a built-in GPS for enhanced tracking capabilities.
Can I make phone calls with the Xiaomi Mi Band 4?
While the Mi Band 4 has an audio speaker for phone functionality, it does not support making phone calls directly from the device. It can, however, show notifications for incoming calls.
