Fitness tracker Xiaomi Mi Band 5 – and 4 alternatives in comparison

The warm season is back – the best conditions for doing sports outside. A fitness tracker is suitable as a motivation support and a perfect analysis tool. TECHNOLOGY BUTTON presents the 5 best models.

But as simple as the bracelets appear, the technology behind them is complex. And so not every manufacturer succeeds in the skillful interaction of sensors and software. That is why we have selected the 5 most interesting models for you.

 

Also interesting: The 5 best fitness trackers in comparison

Xiaomi Mi Band 5 for 27.99 euros at Aldi

With the successor to the popular Mi Band 4 ( here in the check ), Xiaomi continues the price war. The fitness tracker will be available at Aldi from February 25, 2021 at a price of EUR 27.99. The price is slightly higher than the predecessor, but buyers get a few significant improvements.

The first thing you notice is the larger display, which on the Mi Band 5 has grown by 20 percent to 1.1 inches compared to its predecessor – without changing the size of the housing. On the AMOLED color screen, users can set the clock face themselves and choose from over 100 animated templates. The hooky charging station has been replaced with a magnetic charging cable on the new model. If the tracker had to be removed from the silicone bracelet for charging, the magnetic cable is now simply attached to the underside of the housing.

If a call or a message is received on the paired smartphone, the Mi Band 5 shows this on the display – including the caller’s number. Users can also control music on their mobile phones via the tape. Unfortunately, the new model does not have a GPS on board either, a function that we missed on the predecessor. But the battery lasts for several days without having to be charged.

Samsung Gear Fit 2 Pro from 199 euros

The Samsung Gear Fit 2 Pro is a device with extensive functions and is ideal for active people. The fitness tracker has automatic sport recognition, measures the pulse and can also record differences in altitude. Runners can look forward to the built-in GPS sensor that can record routes. And even swimmers get their money’s worth. The Gear Fit 2 Pro is not only waterproof, but can also record the swimming training thanks to the Speedo-On app.

Compatible with Spotify

The Gear Fit 2 Pro can even be used as a sleep tracker. In addition, according to Samsung, users have access to over 3000 apps and various watch faces, which can be used to customize the tracker. There is one drawback, however: the range of functions and the large display cost energy and so the battery life is limited compared to the competition.

The tracker is available in two colors and two sizes. And as is so often the case with Samsung wearables, the tracker works best with Android smartphones.

Garmin Vivosport from 88 euros

The fitness tracker is waterproof to around 50 meters, but unfortunately it does not have a swimming app to measure the distance. If the Vivosport is connected to the smartphone, incoming messages and calls are shown on the display. However, since it is very small, it is not particularly enjoyable to read. Music on the smartphone can also be operated rudimentary. However, there is no built-in music player and Spotify cannot be installed on the tracker.

Unfortunately the bracelet is not interchangeable

A big plus point is the long battery life of up to 10 days. However, if you want to use the GPS, you have to recharge after about eight hours. We find the non-exchangeable bracelet to be a major disadvantage. If you swim a lot with it, sweat it all over or wear it out in any other way, you end up having to replace the entire tracker. In addition, some users report connection and synchronization problems with their smartphones. Otherwise, the Garmin Vivosport is a fair offer. It is available in two sizes and three colors.

Huawei Band 4 Pro from 52 euros

The Band 4 Pro also has the most important functions such as GPS, pulse measurement and sleep monitoring. It also records sports such as running, fitness training and cycling. In contrast to the Vivosport, the Huawei device can even be used during swimming training and even recognizes the swimming style. According to the manufacturer, it can last for up to 12 days on one battery charge – if you use the GPS for a hike, you have to recharge it after seven hours.

A great offer – now even with a music player

Messages can also be received and read on the Huawei tracker. Compared to its predecessor, the Huawei Band 4 Pro even has a built-in music player and can access streaming services such as Spotify. Small drawback: In order to connect the band to the smartphone, users have to install the “Huawei Mobile Services” app, which requires extensive access rights.

Fitbit Charge 4 from 106 euros

The Fitbit brand is one of the market leaders in fitness bracelets. And you can see that in the Fitbit Charge 4. Already optically it makes a valuable and chic impression. The design is cool with a plastic resin case, the bracelet has a stainless steel clasp and is made of either silicone or fabric. The price for it on the upper level, which is also reflected in the range of functions. Users can look forward to a brilliant display with beautiful displays. There is also a large selection of bracelets that you can buy as well. But they are not cheap.

With integrated GPS

Heart rate monitors and pedometers are also mandatory here. As with so many trackers, it is important to note that if you have strong arm and hand movement, steps can be counted in error. So if you vacuum or wash dishes, you will probably come up with too many steps that have not taken place.

The battery life of up to seven days on one charge is a bit below the competition gathered here. Nevertheless, the conclusion is positive: The Fitbit Charge 4 is currently one of the best fitness trackers on the market due to its enormous range of functions. But it is not cheap.