Breaking Down the Hype: Xiaomi Hey Plus 1S vs Xiaomi Mi Band 3 – Which Fitness Tracker Will Transform Your Workout?

If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly fitness tracker, the Xiaomi Hey Plus 1S and Xiaomi Mi Band 3 are two popular options. Both offer a wide range of features, including step counting, sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, and notifications, but they also have their distinct differences. This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which tracker aligns better with your needs and preferences.

Design and Display

The Xiaomi Hey Plus 1S and Mi Band 3 share a similar design aesthetic, featuring a rectangular display encased in a soft, comfortable silicone strap. However, there are key differences in their overall design and display:
Hey Plus 1S:

• Larger Display: The Hey Plus 1S boasts a larger 1.43-inch color display compared to the Mi Band 3’s 0.95-inch monochrome display. This makes it easier to read information at a glance, especially in bright sunlight.
• Full Touchscreen: The Hey Plus 1S features a full touchscreen interface, allowing for smoother navigation and a more responsive experience.
• Variety of Watch Faces: The Hey Plus 1S offers a wider selection of customizable watch faces, enabling you to personalize your tracker’s look.

Mi Band 3:

• Smaller Display: The Mi Band 3’s smaller display might be a disadvantage for users who prefer larger screens.
• Monochrome Display: The monochrome display might not be as vibrant or easy to read in all lighting conditions.
• Limited Watch Faces: The Mi Band 3 offers fewer watch face options compared to the Hey Plus 1S.

Features and Functionality

Both trackers offer a robust set of features, but some key differences set them apart:
Hey Plus 1S:

• GPS Tracking: The Hey Plus 1S integrates GPS functionality, allowing you to track your outdoor runs and walks without needing your smartphone. This is a significant advantage for runners and outdoor enthusiasts.
• SpO2 Monitoring: The Hey Plus 1S includes SpO2 monitoring, which measures blood oxygen saturation levels. This feature can be beneficial for individuals with respiratory conditions or those who want to track their overall health.
• Voice Assistant Support: The Hey Plus 1S supports voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant, enabling you to control your phone with voice commands directly from your wrist.

Mi Band 3:

• Water Resistance: The Mi Band 3 boasts a 5ATM water resistance rating, allowing it to be submerged in water up to 50 meters. This makes it suitable for swimming and other water activities.
• NFC Support: The Mi Band 3 offers NFC support in certain regions, enabling contactless payments through services like Google Pay or Mi Pay.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial factor when choosing a fitness tracker. Both models offer respectable battery life, but the Hey Plus 1S edges out the Mi Band 3:
Hey Plus 1S:

• Up to 10 Days: The Hey Plus 1S can last up to 10 days on a single charge, depending on usage patterns.

Mi Band 3:

• Up to 20 Days: The Mi Band 3 boasts a longer battery life of up to 20 days on a single charge. This is due to the monochrome display and less power-intensive features.

Price and Value

Both trackers offer excellent value for their price, but the Hey Plus 1S is slightly more expensive:
Hey Plus 1S:

• Pricier Option: The Hey Plus 1S is generally priced higher than the Mi Band 3.

Mi Band 3:

• Budget-Friendly Option: The Mi Band 3 is a more affordable option, making it a great choice for budget-conscious individuals.

Choosing the Right Tracker: Hey Plus 1S vs Mi Band 3

Here’s a breakdown of which tracker might be the better choice for you:
Choose the Hey Plus 1S if:

• You prioritize a larger, more vibrant display.
• You need GPS tracking for outdoor activities.
• You want features like SpO2 monitoring and voice assistant support.
• You’re willing to pay a slightly higher price for additional features.

Choose the Mi Band 3 if:

• You prefer a more compact and lightweight tracker.
• You prioritize longer battery life.
• You need water resistance for swimming and other water activities.
• You want a more affordable option.

The Verdict: A Close Race

Both the Xiaomi Hey Plus 1S and Xiaomi Mi Band 3 are excellent fitness trackers that offer a wide range of features at an affordable price. The Hey Plus 1S excels with its larger display, GPS tracking, and advanced health monitoring capabilities, while the Mi Band 3 stands out with its longer battery life, water resistance, and NFC functionality. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Popular Questions

Q1: Can I use the Hey Plus 1S and Mi Band 3 for swimming?
A: The Mi Band 3 is water-resistant up to 5ATM, making it suitable for swimming. The Hey Plus 1S is not designed for swimming.
Q2: Which tracker is better for tracking sleep?
A: Both trackers offer sleep tracking features. The Hey Plus 1S might provide more detailed insights due to its advanced sensors.
Q3: Can I receive notifications from my phone on both trackers?
A: Yes, both trackers can display notifications from your smartphone, such as calls, messages, and app alerts.
Q4: What is the difference in the heart rate monitoring accuracy between the two trackers?
A: Both trackers use optical heart rate sensors, and their accuracy can vary depending on individual factors. However, both are generally considered reliable for everyday use.
Q5: Can I use the Hey Plus 1S and Mi Band 3 with iOS devices?
A: Both trackers are compatible with Android and iOS devices, allowing you to connect and use them with either operating system.