Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Fitness Trackers Under $200

Garmin Vivosmart 5 vs Xiaomi Mi Band 8

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

The short answer

Garmin Vivosmart 5 and Xiaomi Mi Band 8 score essentially the same (3.8 vs 3.8). Pick the one whose trade-offs match your priorities — the strengths and watch-outs below are where they actually differ.

Garmin Vivosmart 5
Ranked #3 in Best Fitness Trackers Under $200
Garmin Vivosmart 5
$199

The Garmin Vivosmart 5 offers solid fitness tracking with accurate heart rate monitoring and all-day sleep analysis, according to PCMag's review. TechRadar noted its robust waterproofing and extended battery life of up to a week. However, both reviewers pointed out limitations in the app ecosystem and display visibility in bright conditions. This device is ideal for users seeking reliable health metrics without the complexity of a full smartwatch, but those wanting extensive smartphone integration may find it lacking.

Strengths
  • Accurate heart rate monitoring with 24/7 tracking
  • Waterproof design up to 50 meters for swimming and showering
  • Long battery life of up to 7 days with smart notifications
Watch-outs
  • Limited app ecosystem compared to competitors like Apple Watch
  • Display can be difficult to read in bright sunlight
Xiaomi Mi Band 8
Ranked #4 in Best Fitness Trackers Under $200
Xiaomi Mi Band 8
$40

The Xiaomi Mi Band 8 offers excellent value as an affordable fitness tracker with a refined design and 150 sports modes. TechRadar noted its improved versatility with necklace and shoe clip attachments, while Wareable praised the 60Hz display refresh rate and better brightness. However, reviewers criticized the lack of GPS, limited health tracking accuracy, and absence of voice assistant support. The device is ideal for budget-conscious fitness enthusiasts who don't require smartwatch features, but those needing GPS or advanced health metrics should consider alternatives.

Strengths
  • 150 sports modes including advanced run tracking
  • 60Hz display refresh rate for smoother navigation
  • Improved design with versatile attachment options (necklace, shoe clip)
Watch-outs
  • No GPS tracking for outdoor activities
  • Limited health tracking accuracy in some areas
  • Cannot make or receive phone calls, lacks voice assistant support

How they stack up

Garmin Vivosmart 5

The Garmin Vivosmart 5 excels in sleep tracking and heart rate accuracy compared to the Fitbit Charge 6, but lacks the smartwatch features that the Fitbit Inspire 3 offers. Unlike the Xiaomi Mi Band 8, it doesn't have 150 sports modes, and while the Amazfit Band 7 is more affordable, the Vivosmart 5 provides more comprehensive health metrics.

Xiaomi Mi Band 8

The Xiaomi Mi Band 8 offers more sports modes and a smoother 60Hz display compared to the Fitbit Inspire 3, but lacks GPS tracking that the Fitbit Charge 6 provides. While the Garmin Vivosmart 5 has better app ecosystem, the Mi Band 8 is more affordable and versatile with its necklace and shoe clip attachments, unlike the Amazfit Band 7 which has better battery life.

Specs side-by-side

SpecGarmin Vivosmart 5Xiaomi Mi Band 8
Battery LifeUp to 7 days190 mAh
Water Resistance50 metersYes
GPSNoNo
Heart Rate Monitor24/7 monitoringYes
DisplayOLED1.62 inch, 192 x 490 pixel
Weight24 g27 g
ConnectivityBluetooth, ANT+Bluetooth 5.1 BLE
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