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Head-to-head · Best Smartwatches

Apple Watch SE 3 vs Xiaomi Watch 5

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Apple Watch SE 3 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.4 vs 4.0). Apple Watch SE 3 is best for: Budget-conscious users wanting Apple ecosystem. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Apple Watch SE 3
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Smartwatches
Apple Watch SE 3
1 source$219as of Oct 14

The Apple Watch SE 3 represents the most improved iteration since the last generation, offering a compelling balance of affordability and functionality. It features an Always-On Retina display, S10 chip, and enhanced speaker capabilities while maintaining the older design aesthetic. While it lacks some advanced health metrics found in higher-tier models, it provides solid performance and is recommended as the go-to option for most users seeking an Apple Watch.

Strengths
  • — Features Always-On Retina display with 1000 nits brightness and 2 nits dimming capability, per AppleInsider
  • — Includes media playback speakers with adjustable volume for on-wrist audio
  • — Utilizes strengthened Ion-X glass that is 4X crack-resistant compared to previous generation, according to Cult of Mac
Watch-outs
  • — Design retains 2018 facelift with thicker bezels and outdated body profile, per Wareable
  • — Limited color options with only Midnight and Starlight available
$219 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Xiaomi Watch 5
Ranked #8 in Best Smartwatches
Xiaomi Watch 5
2 sources

The Xiaomi Watch 5 stands out as one of the best Wear OS smartwatches available, thanks to its integration of Wear OS 6 and a significant battery upgrade with silicon-carbon technology that delivers up to four days of usage. Reviewers praised its 1.54-inch AMOLED display and smart features like YouTube Music and remote camera control. However, some noted the lack of wireless charging and that the build quality, while solid, doesn't quite match premium offerings. This makes it ideal for users seeking long battery life and Android smartwatch functionality, though those prioritizing premium feel may want to consider alternatives.

Strengths
  • — Features Wear OS 6 integration which improves software experience
  • — Includes silicon-carbon battery technology delivering up to 4 days of battery life
  • — Supports advanced smartwatch functions like YouTube Music, Spotify, and remote camera control
Watch-outs
  • — Charger is not wireless and uses a proprietary two-pin charging port, per GSMArena
  • — According to Tech Advisor, the design is somewhat plain and lacks standout style.
Check Price on AmazonFull review →

How they stack up

Apple Watch SE 3

The Apple Watch SE 3 offers an updated design and Always-On Retina display, which the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Series 11 don't match, but it lacks the advanced health features of the Garmin Venu 4 and Apple Watch Ultra 3. While it provides better value than the Apple Watch Series 11, it doesn't offer the same level of smart features as the OnePlus Watch 3 or Xiaomi Watch 5. The Google Pixel Watch 4 offers more battery life but lacks the ecosystem integration that the SE 3 provides.

Xiaomi Watch 5

The Xiaomi Watch 5 offers four days of battery life and Wear OS 6 integration, which is more than the OnePlus Watch 3 and Apple Watch Series 11, but it lacks the advanced health tracking features of the Garmin Venu 4 and Apple Watch Ultra 3. While it provides smart features like YouTube Music and Spotify, it doesn't match the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2's durability or the Apple Watch SE 3's speaker capabilities. The Google Pixel Watch 4 offers more battery life but lacks the Android smartwatch functionality.

Specs side-by-side

SpecApple Watch SE 3Xiaomi Watch 5
Display TypeLTPO OLEDAMOLED touchscreen
Connectivity5GBluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, NFC, dual-band L1+L5 GNSS
OSwatchOS 26Wear OS 6
CompatibilityiPhoneAndroid 6.0+
Material100% recycled aluminumSapphire crystal glass, stainless steel frame (316L)
Water Resistance50m (swimproof)5ATM rating (50m depth)
BatteryBuilt-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery930 mAh
Dimensions9.4 x 3 x 1.2 inches47 x 47 x 12.3 mm
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