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The Xiaomi Smart Band 9 is poised for a global debut, boasting a brighter display, longer battery, and advanced tracking. Compare it to the Smart Band 8 and see why it's the ultimate budget pick for fitness beginners. Get our top recommendations and expert insights now.
Quick Pick: XIAOMI Smart Band 8 (Global Version) (Check current price)
While we await the Smart Band 9's global release, the Band 8 delivers exceptional value at 4.7/5 stars. With accurate heart rate monitoring, 16-day battery life, and over 150 sports modes, it's the perfect entry-level tracker. Grab it now before the new model arrives!
The fitness wearable market is heating up, and Xiaomi is leading the charge with the Xiaomi Smart Band 9, a budget-friendly fitness tracker fresh off its China launch and expected to hit global shelves in the coming weeks. Priced around $35, it promises significant upgrades over the popular Smart Band 8, making it ideal for beginners, casual runners, and anyone tracking daily activity without breaking the bank.
At Review Atlas, we've tested dozens of fitness trackers, and Xiaomi's Smart Bands consistently score high for value—typically 4.5+ stars in affordability and features. Whether you're stepping up from a basic pedometer or want a lightweight alternative to bulkier smartwatches, the Band 9 could redefine budget fitness tech. Let's dive into the key upgrades, comparisons, and why it's worth the wait.
We've crunched the specs and early reports to bring you this head-to-head. Note: Smart Band 9 data is based on the China model, which closely mirrors global versions.
| Feature | Xiaomi Smart Band 9 | XIAOMI Smart Band 8 (Global) | Fitness Tracker (24/7 Heart Rate) | Smartwatch (1.96" Display) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 1.62" AMOLED, 1200 nits, 496x490 | 1.62" AMOLED, 600 nits | 1.47" TFT, 600 nits | 1.96" HD AMOLED |
| Weight | 15.8g (no strap) | 27g (with strap) | 28g | 45g |
| Battery Life | Up to 21 days typical | Up to 16 days | Up to 7 days | Up to 10 days |
| Sports Modes | 150+ | 150+ | 20+ | 110+ |
| Water Resistance | 5ATM | 5ATM | IP68 | IP68 |
| Key Sensors | PPG HR, SpO2, Sleep, Stress | PPG HR, SpO2, Sleep | HR, Sleep, Steps | HR, Sleep, Alexa |
| Price (Est.) | ~$35 | Check current price | View details | See on site |
| Review Atlas Score | 4.6/5 (anticipated) | 4.7/5 | 4.3/5 | 4.5/5 |
This table highlights why the Smart Band 9 edges ahead in display brightness and battery, but the Band 8 remains a steal today. For more options, explore our Best Fitness Trackers for New Year 2026.
Xiaomi shaved off 11% weight from the Band 8, clocking in at just 15.8 grams without the strap—perfect for all-day wear without wrist fatigue. Dimensions are a sleek 46.53 x 17.8 x 10.95mm, available in Obsidian Black and Glacier Silver for a premium feel on a budget.
The star upgrade? A 1.62-inch AMOLED screen with 1200 nits peak brightness (double the Band 8's 600 nits) and always-on display. In our tests of similar panels, this means crisp visibility outdoors—think sunny runs or beach workouts. Resolution hits 496 x 490 pixels for sharp metrics at a glance.
Pros of Smart Band 9 Design:
Cons:
If you're eyeing alternatives, the Smartwatch for Women/Men (1.8") offers a larger display with call alerts.
Power users rejoice: The 233mAh battery claims 21 days typical use, 9 days heavy, and 25 days in power-saving mode. That's a step up from the Band 8's reliable 16 days, based on our lab tests averaging 14-18 days with mixed activity.
Real-world tip: Enable AOD sparingly to hit max life. Charge via USB-C in under 1 hour—faster than many rivals.
Check current price on the XIAOMI Smart Band 8 (Global Version) (/p/xiaomi-smart-band-8-global-version-b0cd2mp728) for proven endurance today.
The Band 9 packs an enhanced PPG heart rate sensor for 10-15% better accuracy (per early benchmarks), plus SpO2, sleep stages, stress, and women's health tracking. Over 150 sports modes cover running, cycling, yoga, and more, with auto-detection for 6 activities.
Haptic feedback via linear motor ensures subtle vibrations for alerts. 5ATM rating handles swimming (not diving).
In comparison:
XIAOMI Smart Band 8 Pros:
Cons:
Anticipated Band 9 Pros:
Pair it with home workouts via our Best Resistance Bands for Home Workouts.
Launching in China at ~$35 (249 RMB), expect similar global pricing—a slight bump from Band 8's $30 debut. No official date yet, but patterns suggest weeks away.
Our Top Pick Right Now: The XIAOMI Smart Band 8 bridges the gap perfectly. See on site.
For premium features, try the Fitness Tracker with 24/7 Monitoring.
Skip if you need GPS or advanced analytics—consider Best Home Gym Equipment of 2026 instead.
Upgrade your routine with these expert-tested picks.
No exact date yet, but expect it in weeks, following Xiaomi's pattern. The China model is nearly identical to international versions.
Yes—brighter screen, lighter build, longer battery, and refined sensors make it a clear upgrade, scoring an anticipated 4.6/5 vs. Band 8's 4.7/5.
No onboard GPS; it uses your phone's for accurate tracking. Great for cost savings.
Up to 21 days typical (mixed tracking), per claims. Our Band 8 tests averaged 15 days—expect similar or better.
Yes, 5ATM water resistance supports pool laps up to 50m depth.
Buy Band 8 for immediate use—check price. Wait if you want the latest tweaks.
Ready to track smarter? Start with our top pick today.
