TL;DR
The Xiaomi Watch S5 is a refined evolution of its predecessor, blending a familiar, stylish stainless steel design with significant internal upgrades. While it retains the sleek 46mm aesthetic and strap compatibility of the S4, the S5 shines with an impressive 21-day battery life and enhanced sensors for more accurate heart rate and health tracking. Its 1.48-inch high-brightness display ensures visibility in any light, while improved touch responsiveness makes navigation seamless even in the rain. Compatible with both Android and iOS via the Mi Fitness app, it offers everything from stress monitoring to direct wrist calls. Whether you are a fitness enthusiast or looking for a reliable everyday companion, this smartwatch delivers a premium experience without the bulk. To see how these upgrades perform in daily use and discover all the new features, dive into the full review!
Design and first impressions
This time we have had the opportunity to test the new Xiaomi Watch S5 smartwatch in 46 mm. We have previously tested its predecessor, Xiaomi Watch S4, and it is clearly evident that Xiaomi has chosen to maintain a similar design. There are some minor visual differences, but for the most part, the design is familiar.
Personally, I think the S4 is the better-looking model, but the S5 is still very stylish. However, it’s a matter of taste. One detail I discovered, since I previously tested the S4, is that the straps from the S4 are compatible with the S5. This is a big plus because you avoid having to buy new straps if you already have some from before.
Packaging and contents
In the box, you get the Xiaomi Watch S5 with a strap already attached. I chose to swap it for a green strap because I think it suits my style better, but it can of course be changed at any time depending on your outfit or mood.
A charger that connects via USB is also included. However, I would have liked to see a USB-C cable here, as it is becoming the new standard. There is also a small manual in the box.
Compatibility and app
The watch is compatible with both Android and iOS. However, the packaging states: “This watch only supports certain Android and iOS systems.” I interpret this to mean that certain versions or updates may have limited support. However, I tested the watch with my iPhone 16, which has the latest update installed, and everything worked without any issues. Specifically, the app Mi Fitness worked smoothly for updating the watch’s software, changing watch faces, and managing various settings.
User experience
After using the Xiaomi Watch S5, I think the overall user experience feels very good. The watch sits comfortably on the wrist, even for long periods, and feels neither bulky nor heavy despite its size.
The menus are fast and easy to navigate, making it simple to move between functions. Furthermore, it is very easy to get started with the watch, and it is intuitive enough that you quickly learn how everything works.
The only clear major update I noticed compared to the previous model is that the sensor measuring heart rate and other health data has been improved, along with the battery life.
Battery life and technical specifications
With a battery life of up to 21 days, the Xiaomi Watch S5 surpasses its predecessor, the S4, which offered up to 15 days. The watch also features improved heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking for those who want better insight into their health.
The watch weighs only 46 grams and is made of stainless steel. It has a 1.48-inch display with high brightness that makes it easy to use even in bright sunlight. The screen resolution is 480 × 480.
Improved everyday user experience
Touch response has also been improved and works better than before, even when your finger is damp from rain or bad weather.
The watch itself is available in several colors: Ceramic Blue, Jungle Green, Black and Silver, where the tested model is Silver.
Everyday features
Features include push notifications from the phone, and it is also possible to answer phone calls directly via the watch. The round side button provides quick access to various apps.
There are many standard features, such as a compass, timer, workout apps, sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, calendar, voice recorder, and contacts. My personal favorite is the Stress feature, which measures stress levels on various scales. Beyond this, there are many more features to explore.
Summary
Xiaomi Watch S5 feels like a natural evolution of the S4 where the design is largely the same, but with some clear improvements under the hood. The biggest upgrade lies in the battery life and the improved sensors for health and measurement. The user experience is smooth, the watch fits comfortably, and the menus are fast and easy to navigate, making it easy to get started with.
At the same time, it retains many of the features that made its predecessor great, including support for notifications, calls, and a wide range of health features. For those seeking a stylish smartwatch with long battery life and ease of use, Xiaomi Watch S5 is a strong alternative.
Xiaomi sent a review unit for this test. Senders of material have no editorial influence on our tests; we always write independently with you, the readers and consumers, in focus.
Review Highlights: Q&A
Hur lång är batteritiden på klockan?
Batteritiden räcker i upp till 21 hela dagar.
Fungerar klockan med min iPhone?
Ja, den är kompatibel med både Android och iOS.
Passar gamla armband till Watch S5?
Ja, armbanden från föregångaren S4 passar även S5.
Kan man svara på samtal i klockan?
Ja, det går att svara på samtal direkt via klockan.
Vilka hälsofunktioner finns i klockan?
Den mäter puls, sömn, stress och träningsdata.
Fungerar touchskärmen om man är blöt?
Touchresponsen fungerar även med fuktiga fingrar.
