Xiaomi has released two versions of its latest fitness tracker: the premium MI Smart Band 9 Ceramic and the standard Smart Band 9.
While these devices share many features, there are some key differences that set them apart.
Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide which one might be the best fit for you.
Pricing & availabilityXiaomi offers three types of Smart Band 9:
Basic model (no NFC): Costs about $34 (View on AliExpress)NFC model: Costs about $41 (View on AliExpress)Ceramic Special Edition: Costs about $60 (View on AliExpress)These prices are based on Chinese pricing and may be different in other countries.
Xiaomi Mi Smart Band 9 Ceramic vs Standard: Main DifferencesMaterials: Ceramic body vs. aluminum alloyVoice Assistant: Ceramic has microphone, standard doesn’tStrap: Premium rubber (Ceramic) vs. TPU (Standard)Price: Ceramic more expensive than standardWeight: Ceramic heavier than standardColors: Ceramic white only vs. multiple options for standardDesign and MaterialsThe Ceramic version stands out with its high-end ceramic body, giving it a luxurious look and feel. This material is not only visually striking but also more scratch-resistant than aluminum. The attention to detail extends to the strap’s buckle, which is also made of ceramic, creating a cohesive and premium design.
The standard version features an aluminum alloy body, offering a modern and sleek appearance. It’s available in four colors: silver, black, blue, and pink gold, providing more options to match personal style preferences.
The Ceramic version weighs about 22.7 grams (without straps), noticeably heavier than the aluminum model. This extra weight contributes to a more premium feel on the wrist.
The standard aluminum version is lighter, offering a balance between presence and comfort that some users might prefer for all-day wear.
Both versions boast a 5 ATM water resistance rating, making them suitable for swimming and other water-based activities.
Straps and ComfortThe Ceramic model comes with a high-quality rubber strap that’s softer and more flexible than the standard version. It’s an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin.
The standard version uses a TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) strap, which is still comfortable for daily wear but not as premium as the Ceramic model’s strap.
DisplayBoth models feature the same impressive 1.62-inch AMOLED “runway” display with:
60Hz refresh rate for smooth animationsAlways-On Display functionalityAutomatic brightness adjustment1200 nits peak brightness for excellent outdoor visibilitySoftware and User InterfaceBoth the Ceramic and standard versions run on Xiaomi’s new HyperOS, powered by a BES2700IMP processor. This results in a smooth and responsive user experience with features like:
New animations for interface navigationLarger font sizes for improved readabilityCustomizable widgets on watch facesAccess to an app store for games and small applicationsMijia app integration for smart home controlWet hand operation supportUnique FeaturesThe Ceramic version includes a microphone, enabling voice assistant functionality. While currently limited to a Chinese assistant, there’s potential for Alexa support in global versions.
The standard version lacks the microphone and voice assistant feature but retains all other core fitness tracking capabilities.
Health and Fitness TrackingBoth versions offer identical health and fitness tracking features, including:
Heart rate monitoringBlood oxygen measurementStress trackingSleep monitoringAutomatic tracking of various activitiesCardiac arrhythmia detectionThe sensor layout has been improved in both models, with two infrared sensors at the top and bottom, separated from the central heart rate sensor. This new arrangement is claimed to improve overall accuracy by 16%.
Battery Life and ChargingBoth models feature a 233mAh battery, offering:
Up to 21 days of battery life with normal useAbout 9 days with intensive use and Always-On Display activatedFast magnetic charging for quick power-upsXiaomi Mi Smart Band 9 Ceramic vs Standard: Which One Should You Choose?Choose the MI Smart Band 9 Ceramic if:
You value premium materials and a luxury feelYou want the potential for voice assistant functionalityYou have sensitive skin and would benefit from the softer strapYou don’t mind paying extra for the best build qualityChoose the standard Smart Band 9 if:
You want all the core fitness tracking features at a more affordable priceYou prefer a lighter device for all-day wearVoice assistant functionality isn’t a priority for youYou’re looking for the best value for moneyIn the end, you’ll need to think about how much you want to spend, what style you like, and whether you care more about fancy materials or saving some cash.
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