Xiaomi has previously introduced several smartwatches to the Swedish market. However, the Xiaomi Watch 2 marks the inclusion of wearOS, bringing this smartwatch into wider ecosystem compatibility. The Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro, which we evaluated over approximately one month, offers a comprehensive feature set and accompanied us on various cycling, walking, and other activities. While it seamlessly integrated into certain daily routines, other aspects proved less compelling.
A first impression
As previously noted, the Xiaomi Watch 2 is available in two versions: a standard and a Pro model. These differ in minor details and two key aspects. The Pro version utilizes stainless steel and incorporates an LTE connection. It weighs 18 grams more, features slightly different dimensions, and offers a reduced battery life of 55 hours (compared to 65 hours) when using LTE. Both watches share the Qualcomm Snapdragon® W5+ Gen 1 processor, identical RAM, and the same Bluetooth version. Notably, the Pro version also includes temperature measurement and body composition analysis functionalities, features that, regrettably, we were unable to successfully test during our evaluation.
The Watch 2 Pro presents as a relatively substantial device. Although the case dimensions are similar to the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS, the absence of a sloping edge contributes to a perceived bulkiness and increased height. While comfortable with short sleeves, the Watch 2 Pro tended to catch on long shirt cuffs, making it less practical in that configuration.
After a month of standard use, the appearance of scratches on the case’s edge was a notable disappointment. Conversely, the 1.43” Amoled screen remained scratch-free, indicating a disparity in durability between the screen and the case. It is worth noting that Xiaomi markets this watch for sports applications, including swimming and compatibility with over 150 training modes.
The Watch 2 Pro is operated via two push buttons and a rotating crown. The function of the upper push button is largely customizable, while the lower button is pre-programmed: a double-click activates Google Pay, and a single-click opens the last used apps. The crown provides haptic feedback and offers contextual functions depending on the active application, such as volume adjustment. This proves useful in various scenarios. However, during cycling activities, the crown occasionally made contact with cycling gloves, inadvertently altering the presentation mode or volume. While easily corrected, this is a consideration for users who prefer wearing the watch on their left wrist.
One design element we found less desirable is the glass material used for the underside. It tends to trap sweat, and we believe the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS offers a more effective solution with its relatively flat, metal-clad surface.
Watch 2 Pro in everyday life
While Google’s wearOS limitations are not attributable to Xiaomi, greater customization options for display content, notification behavior, and button assignments would enhance the user experience. Despite this constraint, users may find the experience acceptable, although the ability to modify sound signals would be a welcome improvement.
A notable drawback is Xiaomi’s implementation of ecosystem lock-in, similar to Apple or Google Pixel. Features such as remote camera access are limited to Xiaomi’s own smartphones.
For experienced smartwatch users, the following observations may be familiar. However, for those new to smartwatches, the advantages include prompt call notifications (with phone-free calling on the LTE version) and rapid access to incoming messages. Conversely, this constant connectivity can also increase distractions. The illuminated screen performs optimally in dark environments, but visibility is significantly reduced in bright sunlight, especially when using polarized sunglasses.
Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro as a training companion
Detailed workout analysis is facilitated by the clear presentation of essential data in both textual and graphical formats, allowing for the correlation of heart rate, altitude changes, and speed.
A missing feature in the Mi Fitness app is the ability to retrospectively “replay” a cycling route. While the app displays pulse increases after approximately 10 minutes, potentially corresponding to a specific hill, determining the precise location of increased exertion can be ambiguous, requiring guesswork. This is particularly frustrating given the watch’s accurate GNSS positioning system with 5-system and dual-band support. Fortunately, there are alternative solutions.
Mi Fitness integrates with Suunto, Google Fit, and Strava (among others), functioning as a data provider. During our evaluation using Suunto, the integration was seamless. Suunto’s app offers enhanced presentations, diverse map options, and the aforementioned “replay” functionality. However, Suunto’s retrospective analysis is only available after linking the accounts.
To assess the accuracy of the Watch 2 Pro’s heart rate monitoring, we simultaneously used the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS on one arm and the Watch 2 Pro on the other during a brief workout. The heart rate measurements differed by a negligible 2 bpm, indicating comparable accuracy.
Conclusion Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro
We observed some concerns regarding the build quality; a smartwatch designed for sports should exhibit fewer signs of wear after approximately one month of use. Furthermore, the non-rounded case design contributes to a perception of bulkiness. The raised underside further exacerbates this issue. The absence of wireless charging in the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro is also a disadvantage.
Beyond these points, we found little to criticize.
The Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro offers numerous additional features and details. Charging is remarkably fast, and a wide selection of watch faces are available. The sleep monitoring function assigns an animal analogue based on sleep patterns, providing insightful and sometimes amusing reflections on sleep habits. These are just a few of the many features offered.
Furthermore, the limitations of Xiaomi’s proprietary app can be mitigated by utilizing alternatives such as Suunto. A full charge provides approximately two days of use, but with two half-hour cycling sessions with comprehensive monitoring, daily charging is recommended. This is acceptable considering the rapid charging speed.
Overall, the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro presents a compelling value proposition. The price is generally stable at 2 990 SEK, but promotional discounts are common. At the time of writing, the watch was available for 1 990 SEK on Xiaomi’s website, making it an exceptional bargain.
Xiaomi provided review units for this evaluation. The provision of materials does not influence our editorial independence; our reviews are always conducted with the interests of our readers and consumers as our primary focus.
