Xiaomi Watch S5 is on the way with a slimmer design
Xiaomi has pulled back the curtain on the Watch S5, giving us our first proper look at what’s to come. The design is noticeably slimmer this time around, and Xiaomi will obviously want a premium feel. Also, new sensors are on board.
What we know
It starts with the design, and the case is 316L stainless steel. This is a step up from the aluminum alloy used in the S4, and the crown gets a concentric circle texture that adds some character. Watch face options include designs inspired by classic watches, some using Roman numerals and others featuring a moon phase complication. As can be seen from the pictures in this article, the watch looks very small. So that’s another plus.
Xiaomi says the sensors have been fully improved across the board, and the claim is improved accuracy in health monitoring. Smart ecosystem features are also mentioned, with the S5 being able to act as a control hub for compatible smart home devices and connected cars.
In terms of battery life, you can expect 21 days on a single charge. The best and especially the result of the lightweight operating system.
How does it compare to the S4
After reviewing the Xiaomi Watch S4 over a year ago, there are some clear points to compare, even the specs of the S5 are still a little confirmed.
The S4 scores well for design, with its adjustable bezel and rotating crown making it one of the most customizable options in its price range. The S5 seems to be moving away from that bezel approach in favor of a more traditional look, with the stainless steel case giving it more presence on the wrist. Whether that’s a tradeoff you can accept depends on whether you value the S4’s modularity.
Battery life is where the S5 seems to take a clear step forward. The S4 managed about 15 days with normal use, which was already strong. The jump to 21 days, if it holds up to performance, will put the S5 ahead of most of its direct competition.
The S4’s sensor pack performed well in the test, with GPS accuracy coming within 10 meters of the Garmin Forerunner 955 on vigorous runs, and heart rate tracking holding up well at moderate intensity. The S5 claims improved sensors, but until those are tested under real-world conditions it’s hard to know how much those improvements really are.
The price looks set to stay in the same bracket, which is good news. The S4 offered a decent value, and if Xiaomi can deliver the desired improvements without raising the price significantly, the S5 should be a reasonable step forward rather than an inflated upgrade.
Two versions, one with eSIM
Xiaomi is planning two variants. One connects via traditional Bluetooth, while the other adds eSIM support, meaning you can make calls and receive notifications without your phone nearby.
The price in China is expected to be around 999 yuan for the Bluetooth model, while the eSIM version is around 1,199 yuan. There is no confirmed global launch yet, although international availability seems likely at some point.
Sources: Xiaomi on Weibo (2, 3)
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