The fitness bracelets of the Xiaomi Mi Band line are renowned for their functionality and good value for money. These versatile devices are suitable for both sports and everyday use. Below we have compiled a review of the Mi Smart Band 4 from Aliexpress. This is one of the most successful trackers from Xiaomi, so it certainly deserves attention.
Design and ergonomics
The box has changed radically compared to its predecessor in terms of design. It consists of cardboard, no plastic blister. Apparently, the manufacturer came to such a decision in order to save money. However, the design of the box does not affect its contents at all. It contains the gadget itself, the original charger and several “pieces of paper”.
In terms of design, the capsule has changed a lot. Now on its front side there is a rounded glass (instead of convex). There is also a 0.95-inch display with a standard resolution of 240×120 pixels and full touch control. The back of the capsule remains largely the same, but now it houses the charging connectors. If you look closely, the design changes seem more serious. For example, the reviewed model has increased in size compared to its predecessor. And the 2.5D glass has received an oleophobic coating, thanks to which the finger easily glides over the display.
The principle of attaching the capsule remains the same – stretch the strap and take out the capsule. In general, the design of the device turned out to be successful. It can be seen that the manufacturer is trying to match the changes in the market. Due to the high-quality display, using MiBand 4 is more convenient than the third generation model.
Watch faces and feature set
We have already mentioned the screen parameters of MiBand 4, but it is not so easy to convey the sensations from working with it. There is no automatic brightness control here, and it needs to be adjusted by the user independently (there are 5 brightness levels). When turned on, the default medium level is set. It will be comfortable for working with the clock indoors. Whereas when going outside on a cloudy day, the image already seems dull. If you set the brightness to the maximum level, the problem will be solved. However, this will lead to a rapid consumption of the charge, and it is unlikely to be suitable for a room.
The device supports a number of different dials, the appearance of which is associated with the installation of a color display. You can download them through the MiFit utility, there are about 50 options available. Each dial displays the current time, date, and charge level on the display. Most of the others show the steps taken, and some also show the heart rate. Despite complaints (for example, regarding the lack of auto volume control), the color screen and a large set of dials refreshed the gadget well.
The set of functions has also been expanded. Now users have access to an accurate weather forecast, as well as the ability to view and respond to messages via SMS, or in messengers such as Twitter and Facebook. It also became possible to view e-mail and even monitor exchange rates. With the help of MiBand 4, the user will be able to receive incoming calls. When a call comes in, the device will vibrate, and a corresponding message with the subscriber’s name or number will appear on the display.
In addition, support for the XiaoAI voice assistant has been implemented, which simplifies gadget control. And if the user decides to buy MiBand 4 with Aliexpress with an NFC sensor, it will significantly expand the functionality of the watch. For example, he will be able to manage devices included in the smart home system, as well as make contactless payments.
Other features and innovations
First of all, we note that the music control function is available in Maband 4. To use this feature, you just need to swipe the main screen from right to left. Here you can switch tracks or change the volume. Owners of iOS devices will be able to manage music not only in AppleMusic, but also on third-party platforms, for example, in Yandex Music. Switching tracks works instantly. Perhaps faster than the remote control of the headphones themselves.
Next, we note the support for Bluetooth 5.0, which was received by Band 4. In practice, the “blue tooth” of the fifth generation ensures stable operation of the watch, reduces power consumption, and also allows you to connect to a smartphone over long distances. If the phone does not support BT 5, the connection with it will be done via Bluetooth 4.2.
Next, we note the screen lock, which appeared in the MiFit settings. Now, every time the user removes the watch from his hand, it will start to go into lock mode (the same function is implemented on AppleWatch).
Autonomy
The device received an updated charger, and the contacts on the case moved from the end to the bottom. The charger cable is now 13 cm long, which is 4 cm longer than its predecessor. Also, the MiBand 4 bracelet with Aliexpress is equipped with a more capacious 135 mAh battery.
The developer promises that the device will work without recharging for 20 days. Of course, such a result is real, but this is on condition that you rarely use the watch and with a minimum number of included functions. For example, turning off the sleep monitor and heart rate monitor will significantly increase autonomy. In turn, when using the standard set of widgets, MiBand 4 lasted about a week without being connected to the power supply.
As soon as the battery charge drops below 15%, the device will notify you about this using a vibration signal, and will also display a corresponding notification on the screen. At the same time, it takes only 1.5 hours to charge the fitness bracelet from 0 to 100%.
Output
Xiaomi MiBand 4 is a cool budget segment smartwatch, the cost of which on Aliexpress is around 26.96 US. At the same time, despite the low cost, the devices received well-thought-out ergonomics and all the necessary functions for sports and everyday use.
