Amazfit Moonbeam vs Xiaomi Mi Band 2: Which Fitness Tracker Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right fitness tracker can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available in the market. Two popular contenders that often come up in discussions are the Amazfit Moonbeam and the Xiaomi Mi Band 2. Both devices offer a compelling blend of features and affordability, but which one emerges as the champion? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of each tracker, helping you make an informed decision.

Design and Display

The Amazfit Moonbeam boasts a sleek and minimalist design. Its circular display, reminiscent of a traditional watch, offers a classic and sophisticated aesthetic. The Xiaomi Mi Band 2, on the other hand, adopts a more rectangular and compact design, prioritizing a slim profile for comfortable wear.
In terms of display, the Amazfit Moonbeam features a 1.28-inch color AMOLED display with a resolution of 360 x 360 pixels. This offers a vibrant and clear visual experience, making it easy to navigate menus and view information. The Xiaomi Mi Band 2, however, utilizes a smaller 0.42-inch OLED display with a resolution of 128 x 32 pixels. While the display is monochrome, it is still legible and provides essential information at a glance.

Features and Functionality

Both trackers offer a range of fitness tracking features, including:

• Activity Tracking: Both devices can track steps, distance, calories burned, and active time.
• Heart Rate Monitoring: Both trackers come equipped with heart rate sensors that continuously monitor your heart rate throughout the day.
• Sleep Tracking: Both devices can monitor your sleep patterns, including duration and quality.
• Notifications: Both trackers can display notifications from your smartphone, including calls, messages, and social media alerts.
• Water Reminder: Both trackers provide reminders to stay hydrated throughout the day.

However, there are some key differences in their functionalities:

• GPS: The Amazfit Moonbeam features built-in GPS, allowing it to track your outdoor activities with greater accuracy. The Xiaomi Mi Band 2, on the other hand, relies on your smartphone’s GPS for location tracking.
• Music Control: The Amazfit Moonbeam allows you to control music playback on your smartphone, while the Xiaomi Mi Band 2 does not offer this feature.
• NFC: The Amazfit Moonbeam includes NFC support, enabling contactless payments. The Xiaomi Mi Band 2 lacks this feature.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial factor for any fitness tracker, and both the Amazfit Moonbeam and the Xiaomi Mi Band 2 excel in this regard. The Amazfit Moonbeam offers a remarkable battery life of up to 5 days on a single charge, while the Xiaomi Mi Band 2 boasts a battery life of up to 20 days. This impressive longevity makes both trackers ideal for extended use without frequent charging.

Water Resistance

Both trackers are water-resistant, making them suitable for everyday wear and even swimming. The Amazfit Moonbeam has a water resistance rating of 5 ATM (50 meters), while the Xiaomi Mi Band 2 has a rating of 5 ATM (50 meters) as well. This means that both devices can withstand splashes, rain, and even shallow water activities.

Price and Value

The Amazfit Moonbeam and the Xiaomi Mi Band 2 are both incredibly affordable fitness trackers. The Amazfit Moonbeam typically retails for around $50-$70, while the Xiaomi Mi Band 2 is available for even less, usually around $30-$40.
Considering their feature sets and performance, both devices offer excellent value for money. The Xiaomi Mi Band 2 is a more budget-friendly option, while the Amazfit Moonbeam provides a more feature-rich and stylish experience.

The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the choice between the Amazfit Moonbeam and the Xiaomi Mi Band 2 depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Amazfit Moonbeam if:

• You need built-in GPS for accurate outdoor activity tracking.
• You value a stylish and feature-rich design.
• You want the ability to control music playback and use contactless payments.

Choose the Xiaomi Mi Band 2 if:

• You prioritize a budget-friendly option.
• You value long battery life and a comfortable, slim design.
• You don’t require GPS or advanced features.

The Final Word: Beyond the Metrics

While both the Amazfit Moonbeam and the Xiaomi Mi Band 2 offer impressive features and affordability, it’s important to consider the broader context of your fitness journey. A fitness tracker is a tool, and its effectiveness ultimately depends on your commitment and consistency.
Remember that the best fitness tracker is the one that you’ll actually use and enjoy.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: Can I use the Amazfit Moonbeam or the Xiaomi Mi Band 2 with Android and iOS devices?
A: Both trackers are compatible with both Android and iOS devices. You’ll need to download the respective companion apps to connect and manage your tracker.
Q: Do both trackers offer customizable watch faces?
A: The Amazfit Moonbeam offers a wider selection of customizable watch faces, while the Xiaomi Mi Band 2 has a limited number of options.
Q: What is the difference in the accuracy of the heart rate sensors?
A: Both trackers provide reasonably accurate heart rate readings, but the Amazfit Moonbeam generally offers slightly more precise measurements.
Q: Can I use either tracker for swimming?
A: Yes, both trackers are water-resistant up to 5 ATM (50 meters), making them suitable for swimming.
Q: Which tracker is better for tracking sleep?
A: Both trackers offer sleep tracking capabilities, but the Amazfit Moonbeam provides more detailed insights into your sleep patterns, including REM sleep and light sleep phases.