We compared two popular fitness trackers at very different prices: the Xiaomi Smart Band 9, with its AMOLED display and long battery, and the Fitbit Charge 6, with built-in GPS and Google features.
What we looked at
Battery life, display, workout modes, GPS and smart features, sleep and health monitoring, what is included, and price.
The verdict
If you want a stated 21 days of battery, over 150 training modes and a bright AMOLED screen for less than half the price, the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 is the value pick. If you want built-in GPS, Google Maps and Wallet, and three months of Google Health coaching, the Fitbit Charge 6 is the more feature-rich option, with a stated 7-day battery.
Under half the price with a stated 21-day battery and 150+ training modes, but no built-in GPS is listed.
Built-in GPS, Google Maps and Wallet, and 3 months of Google Health coaching, but it costs over twice as much with a 7-day battery.
Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Fitness Tracker (Arctic Blue) — Best Battery & Value
Intended for: Marketed as a fitness tracker with a 1.62 inch AMOLED touch display, up to 21 days of battery life, SpO2 and heart rate monitoring, continuous sleep monitoring and over 150 training modes.
What we liked
- Less than half the price of the Fitbit Charge 6 on these listings
- Up to 21 days of battery life stated
- 1.62 inch AMOLED touch display
- Over 150 training modes, with up to 10 running routes and vibration and light-up reminders for speed and heart rate goals
- SpO2, heart rate, continuous sleep and sleep-breathing monitoring, with a step and calorie counter
Worth knowing
- No built-in GPS mentioned in the listing, unlike the Fitbit
- No contactless payments or maps mentioned in the listing highlights
Best for
- Budget-conscious buyers who want a long-lasting tracker
- Anyone who wants a wide range of workout modes
- People who want a bright AMOLED display for less
Not ideal for
- Anyone who wants built-in GPS and Google Maps or Wallet on the wrist
- Buyers who want a coaching membership included
Fitbit Charge 6 Fitness Tracker (Coral / Champagne Gold, with 3 Months Google Health Membership) — Most Features
Intended for: Marketed as an activity tracker with built-in GPS, 40+ exercise modes, 24/7 heart rate, sleep tracking, Google Maps and Google Wallet, 7 days of battery life and 3 months of Google Health coaching included.
What we liked
- Built-in GPS, plus Heart Rate on Equipment via Bluetooth
- Google Maps, Google Wallet and YouTube Music controls on the wrist
- 40+ exercise modes, Daily Readiness Score, Active Zone Minutes and cardio fitness level
- Water-resistant up to 50m, with automatic sleep tracking and a Smart Wake alarm
- Includes 3 months of Google Health Coach
Worth knowing
- Costs more than twice as much as the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 on these listings
- Battery life stated at 7 days, against the Xiaomi's 21
Best for
- Runners and gym-goers who want built-in GPS
- People who want Google Maps and Wallet on their wrist
- Buyers who want guided coaching included for the first months
Not ideal for
- Budget-conscious buyers
- Anyone who wants the longest possible battery life
