I used to wear an Apple Watch 4 as my previous wearable device. Although it had powerful functions and smooth performance, I felt anxious about having to charge it every night before sleep. Despite its impressive capabilities, its battery life was short. Even though recent system updates added sleep tracking, I wondered if I had to charge it during the day after wearing it at night. After a while, I grew tired of constantly monitoring its battery level and remembering to charge it. Additionally, the weight of the 44mm watch face was a burden for someone like me who dislikes any kind of extra weight on my wrist.
For a period of time, I didn’t wear any wearable device on my wrist. As they say, it’s easy to go from being frugal to extravagant, but difficult to go back. After getting used to the Apple Watch’s responsive screen, instant notifications from my phone, and accurate heart rate monitoring, it was challenging to switch to a smart wristband with limited functions.
However, the Xiaomi Mi Band 6 caught my attention. With a battery life of up to 14 days, a full-screen retina display, responsive user interaction, and seamless integration with my Apple phone’s app notifications, it perfectly met my needs for a wearable device.
- Unboxing
The packaging is compact, and upon opening the box, you can immediately see the wristband itself. The wristband is wrapped in a silicone strap, similar to the skin-friendly silicone used by Apple Watch. The strap has multiple adjustable clasps, suitable for wrists of various sizes. It also comes with a very short magnetic charging cable that has a strong magnetic force. You don’t have to align it precisely with the charging port on the wristband; just place it nearby, and it will automatically attach. A big thumbs up for that.
- User Experience
Except for GPS, it has all the basic functions of an Apple Watch, including vibrating for incoming calls, message notifications, notifications from various apps, heart rate monitoring, and blood oxygen level detection.
The sleep monitoring feature deserves special praise. Due to its compact size, it doesn’t feel uncomfortable to wear during sleep, and it provides accurate sleep data.
In terms of battery life, using all the features on the NFC version, I found that I needed to charge it once every four days. It can be fully charged in just the time it takes to shower.
Here’s a little anecdote: One time, during an argument with my spouse, the wristband suddenly alerted me that my heart rate was too high. I glanced at the wristband, and the argument quickly subsided. It’s amazing how it can help control one’s temper.
- Changing Third-Party Watch Faces
The Xiaomi Mi Band 6 comes with several watch faces, but they lack personalization and functionality.
To change watch faces to more personalized ones, such as a space-themed face, you’ll need to use third-party tools. Android users can use the “Notify for Mi Band” app for this purpose, while iOS users will need to download the “AmazTools” app.
The watch face I’m currently using is comprehensive and displays accurate information.
In conclusion, the Xiaomi Mi Band 6 offers a satisfying user experience. Its long battery life, retina display, responsive interaction, and seamless integration with app notifications make it an excellent choice for a wearable device. Although it lacks GPS functionality, it compensates with its compact design and accurate sleep monitoring. Changing watch faces to suit your personal style is also possible with the help of third-party apps. Overall, the Xiaomi Mi Band 6 delivers on its promises and provides a great value for its price.