Comparison Amazfit Pop 3S vs Xiaomi Mi Band 8 NFC

— Smartwatch. A wristwatch gadget designed to be used in conjunction with a smartphone, usually with a Bluetooth connection. Such a watch can be used to receive notifications of incoming calls or messages, to control various smartphone features; and the most advanced models even allow the installation of their own applications and differ from watch-phones only in the inability to make calls on their own. In turn, the difference from fitness trackers (see below) lies primarily in a more traditional design and broader specialization: smartwatches often have fitness sensors and support specialized data collecting, but their use is not limited to this.

— Watch-phone. Smartwatch with its own mobile communication module. Such devices are capable of making calls, sending messages, and in most cases even using the mobile Internet without connecting to a smartphone or other external device. However, a Bluetooth headset may be required for voice convenience, and smartphone connectivity is also available on many models. The specific features of such gadgets can be different, it should be specified separately.

— Fitness tracker. Specialized wearable gadgets designed mainly for sports. Typically, such a gadget has a long and narrow body, the width of which may not exceed the width of the strap; this arrangement is considered the mo...st convenient in view of the application. As for the features, fitness trackers mainly record various data about the state of the body and health of the user, ranging from heart rate to blood oxygen levels, sleep phases, and other specific parameters. In addition, traditional features such as call or SMS notifications can also be provided, but in this case they are of secondary importance. Displays in fitness trackers are usually the simplest, and in some models there is no screen at all — it is still more convenient to view detailed data on physical activity in the application on a smartphone.

— Beacon for children. Wearable devices to ensure the safety of children; most often — a specialized type of watch-phone (see above). The beacon performs primarily two main features: it allows parents to control where the child is, and provides communication between the child and the parent (including in emergency situations). Specific features may vary, for more details see "Parental Control". In addition, the design often provides for other features of smartwatches — from an alarm clock and time display to a pedometer, heart rate monitor and other special data collecting.

— For animals. Gadgets designed for pets — primarily dogs. Such a device is usually attached to a collar and can perform quite a variety of features: a beacon that transmits data about the location of the pet, a “calling card” with the owner’s contact information, and even a fitness tracker that tracks the activity of the animal and allows you to monitor its health.

— Smart glasses. Wearable smart gadgets made in the form of glasses. Usually, a camera is built into the frame of such a gadget, and the display is located opposite one of the user's eyes. Initially, smart glasses were considered quite a promising development, but in fact, for a number of reasons, they did not gain popularity, and nowadays they are almost never used.

The main way to connect a wearable gadget with external devices. For smartwatches and fitness bands (see "Type"), this refers to a connection to a smartphone or tablet, while in the case of watch-phones, it usually refers to headsets.

— Bluetooth. Wireless technology for direct communication of various devices with each other. This is the most popular interface in smartwatches and bracelets: Bluetooth modules can be made very tiny, the communication range even in the earliest versions reaches 10 m, and different generations of Bluetooth are mutually compatible in terms of basic functionality. Specifically, the versions nowadays are as follows:

• v2.0. The earliest standard used in modern wearable gadgets. The possibilities of such a connection are more modest than those of more advanced versions, but they are often quite enough.
• v3.0. A standard that combines classic Bluetooth v 2.0 and a high-speed “add-on” for transferring large amounts of data.
• v4.0. Further, after 3.0, improvement of Bluetooth: in addition to the classic and high-speed format, this version added Bluetooth Low Energy technology. Support of this technology is especially useful in fitness trackers, which usually transmit small amounts of data, but constantly.
• v4.1. Modification of the 4.0 standard described above with improved protection against interference while working with LTE mobile communications. ...i> v4.2. Another improvement of the 4.0 standard, which introduced, in particular, improved data protection and increased connection speed.
• v5.0. The fifth generation of Bluetooth, released in 2016. One of the most interesting improvements is the introduction of two special modes of operation for Bluetooth Low Energy: extended range (by reducing speed) and increased speed (by reducing range).

— USB. Wired connection to a computer/laptop using a USB cable. A rather specific option, found in some fitness trackers and children's beacons. During working hours, such a gadget functions completely independently, and the USB connection is used only occasionally, for some special tasks: transferring collected data to a computer, charging the battery, changing some settings, etc. This is not as convenient as a permanent connection via Bluetooth, therefore, in wearable gadgets, USB is rarely used as the main connection method.

— 3.5 mm (mini-Jack). Another wired connection method, almost completely similar to the USB described above and differing only in the type of connector. Also, the 3.5 mm plug is designed mainly to work with smartphones and tablets, and not with computers. However, it is also extremely rare.

The operating system installed on the gadget itself.

In this case, we do not mean basic firmware, but rather a full-fledged OS that provides extensive capabilities. For example, allowing you to install additional applications or functionally tailored for close integration with certain web services. The most popular operating system options for wrist gadgets are presented below:

– Android. The Android mobile OS is known mainly for smartphones and tablets, but its open source code allows it to be optimized for other devices, including wrist devices. Note that traditional Android applications are generally poorly compatible with wrist gadgets, but some programs are able to automatically adapt to such devices, and specialized software is also produced for certain models (often by the manufacturers themselves).

– WatchOS. An operating system specially designed for Apple wrist gadgets and used only in them. Among the key features, it is worth noting support for the Siri voice assistant and the Apple Pay system, a set of fitness tools, as well as a high degree of optimization for Apple Watch controls. WatchOS uses its own applications, which can also be created by third-party developers.

– Wear OS. The system formerly known as Android Wear. This is a specific version of Android, originally developed as a solution for “smart” wrist gadgets. It features a radically redes...igned interface, close integration with the Google Assistant voice assistant, and so-called proactive notifications. Thanks to the latter, the device is able to independently, without a request, issue extended tips for a certain situation: for example, before an important meeting, plot a route on the map taking into account traffic jams and, if necessary, turn on a reminder earlier than the originally planned time.

— Nucleus. Quite a rare and unusual “OS”: it does not belong to a general-purpose OS, but to real-time systems. Such systems are optimized for the fastest possible response to external events (whereas in conventional operating systems the reaction occurs depending on the distribution of resources). Specifically, Nucleus has all the capabilities necessary for wrist gadgets, however, for a number of reasons, such firmware is quite rare.

— Tizen. An open operating system for mobile devices, primarily promoted by Samsung. As with Android, the original Tizen is poorly suited for smartwatches, so we usually talk about a special version of Tizen Wearable. It is worth noting that there are tools that allow you to run Android applications on devices running this OS.

– ColorOS. A system developed by OPPO and used in its mobile devices. Directly for smart watches, the operating system is presented in the form of ColorOS Watch - the system interface is optimized for use on small screens and includes tools for tracking the user’s physical activity, monitoring sleep and health, managing notifications, etc. Moreover, smartwatches powered by ColorOS Watch can serve as a digital key for some modern Chinese-made cars.

– HarmonyOS. Huawei's universal operating system, also known as Hongmeng. Provides operation of a wide range of devices: equipment from the smart home ecosystem, smart watches, smartphones and tablets. Onboard wearables, HarmonyOS is a redesigned version of the homegrown Lite OS used in Huawei watches and other low-end devices.

– Zepp OS. A specialized real-time system for Amazfit and Zepp smartwatches. It is an open platform for health management and activity tracking, based on the principles of ease, fluidity and practicality. One notable feature of the OS is support for cloud Internet service applications (like Spotify, SoundCloud, etc.).

– Lite OS. A lightweight system for wearable gadgets with limited computing power, used in some simple smartwatch models from Huawei. A more advanced version of the operating system for such devices from the manufacturer is HarmonyOS (see above).

– Fitbit OS. An operating system developed for Fitbit wrist gadgets and used only in them. Fitbit OS supports the installation of various applications on smart watches, the system implements gesture control, and many widgets and watch faces have been released for it. The operating system also provides targeted exercise modes and the possibility of contactless payment for purchases in stores using the NFC chip of the watch using the Fitbit Pay program.

– Moto Watch OS. Proprietary software for Motorola smart watches from the category of real-time systems. Moto Watch OS is designed with an eye toward accurate health tracking, the OS also collects information about user activity, supports receiving notifications from a connected smartphone, and ensures maximum battery life for the wearable gadget. Note that the operating system does not support installing applications from third-party developers - you will have to be content with pre-installed tools and programs.

– MagicOS. An operating system specially designed for Honor wrist gadgets and used only in them. In appearance and in terms of its set of capabilities, it is very similar to the related operating system HarmonyOS, which is found in Huawei wearable devices. It is argued that MagicOS has its own philosophy and development vector.

– BlueOS. Vivo's own OS, which can run a wide range of devices - from mobile phones and tablets to smart watches. In fact, the system’s debut took place on board wearable gadgets in 2023. The “operating system” is written in the Rust programming language with an emphasis on maximum protection of user data. A distinctive feature of BlueOS is generative artificial intelligence. Thus, Vivo smart watches have already implemented the function of creating dials by voice with the participation of AI.

– HyperOS. A unified Linux-based operating system for Xiaomi smart devices. But if in mobile phones HyperOS has replaced the proprietary MIUI shell, then in the smartwatch segment this is something new. The emphasis in Xiaomi's operating system is on the close interconnection of all devices running HyperOS within a single ecosystem.

Types of notifications, as well as basic voice communication features supported by the gadget.

— Call notifications. Notifications about calls coming to the smartphone connected to the gadget, and for watch-phones — about calls to the watch itself. In classic smartwatches and fitness trackers (see "Type"), the specific functionality of such notifications can be different — from the usual sound or vibration signal to the ability to see the caller's number on the screen and accept/reject the call. But anyway, such notifications are often more noticeable to the user than the own signal of a smartphone deep in a pocket or bag.

— SMS notifications. Notifications about SMS messages received either on a smartphone connected to the gadget, or on the gadget itself, if it is capable of receiving messages (all watch phones and many children's beacons have this capability, see "Type"). The specific features of notifications can be different — from the icon "you have received a message" to the ability to read SMS and reply to it. Anyway, this feature often provides additional convenience — at least it reduces the likelihood of missing an important notification, and often also eliminates the need to once again take the phone out of your pocket / bag.

— Voice control. The ability to control the device through voice commands. In order for a smartwatch or f...itness tracker to perform some simple feature, it is enough to say its name aloud.

— Voice assistant. In watches with voice assistant support, the level of user interaction with the device is displayed in a new qualitative way. The most popular virtual assistants are Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. In Apple devices, the role of an assistant is performed by Apple Siri, in Samsung wearable gadgets — a virtual assistant Bixby. Unlike the voice control function, the assistant does not just turn on this or that feature, but allows you to perform certain operations in applications that require feedback.

— Sound signal. The ability to give sound signals using the built-in speaker. This feature will be useful primarily in situations where the gadget is not on hand — for example, if it is used as an alarm clock and is removed at night.

— Vibration. Vibration signal similar to that used in mobile phones. In wearable gadgets, such a signal is especially convenient due to the fact that the device is constantly in contact with the wearer's skin, so that the vibration is perfectly felt — and regardless of the level of noise around. In addition, vibration mode is also useful in quiet environments where a loud sound signal is undesirable.

— Built-in microphone. Own microphone built into the body of the device. Such equipment can be used for different purposes, depending on the type and features of the gadget. First of all, voice communication is impossible without a microphone. Another feature for which a microphone is required is the voice assistant (see above). And in children's smartwatches, it may be possible to remotely turn on the microphone from the parent gadget and listen to what is happening around the child; see the relevant paragraph below for details.

— Speakerphone(speaker). The ability to work the gadget in hands-free mode, using the built-in speaker and microphone for conversation. In a conventional smartwatch (see "Type"), this feature allows you to talk through the watch without removing the smartphone from your pocket; in watch-phones, speakerphone allows you to do so without headphones and headsets, and for children's smartwatches, this feature is almost mandatory. However the volume of the built-in speaker is usually low, so in a noisy environment its power may not be enough.

The number of types of sports training supported by the smartwatch. The more of them, the wider the coverage of the potential audience is provided by a wearable gadget on the wrist.

The most common sports modes include running, walking, cycling, swimming, elliptical exercise, and so on. The quantity and quality of data for different sports depends on the technical level of equipment of a particular device. While some models only record heart rate and roughly calculate the number of calories burned, other smartwatches evaluate the effectiveness of a workout using a detailed list of data and even draw a conditional run track based on information from GPS satellites.

A training programme for waterproof smartwatches or fitness trackers with water sports disciplines support. In swimming mode the wearable gadget determines the speed, distance and time of the swim, advanced instances of smartwatches measure the number of laps in the pool, calculate the frequency and efficiency of strokes in certain swimming styles. A personal assistant on the wrist evaluates the performance of water workouts and often makes recommendations to improve their effectiveness.

The size of the display installed in the gadget; for round screens, respectively, the diameter is indicated.

A larger screen, on the one hand, is more convenient to use, on the other hand, it significantly affects the dimensions of the entire device, which is especially critical for wearable gadgets. Therefore, manufacturers choose the display size in accordance with the purpose and functionality of each specific model — so that there is enough space on the screen and the device itself is not too bulky.

It is also worth mentioning that screens with a similar size may have different aspect ratios. For example, traditional smartwatches are usually equipped with square or round panels, while in fitness trackers, screens are often made elongated in height.

Screen size in dots (pixels) horizontally and vertically. In general, this is one of the indicators that determine the image quality: the higher the resolution, the clearer and smoother the picture on the screen (with the same size), the less noticeable are the individual dots. On the other hand, an increase in the number of pixels affects the cost of displays, their power consumption and requirements for a hardware platform (more powerful hardware is required, which itself will cost more). In addition, the specifics of using smartwatches is such that there is simply no need to install high-resolution screens in them. Therefore, modern wrist accessories use displays with a relatively low resolution: for example, 320x320 with a size of about 1.6" is considered quite sufficient even for premium watches.

The density of dots on the screen of the gadget, namely, the number of pixels that are on each inch of the panel vertically or horizontally.

The higher the PPI, the higher the detail of the screen, the clearer and smoother the image is. On the other hand, this indicator affects the price accordingly. Therefore, the higher the density of points, the more advanced, usually, this gadget is in terms of general capabilities. However, when choosing a screen, manufacturers take into account the general purpose and functionality of the device; so that even a small number of PPIs usually does not interfere with comfortable use.