The Quick Verdict
The Redmi Watch 5 Active is a budget smartwatch that prioritizes screen size and battery life. With a 2.0" LCD display, 470mAh battery (up to 18 days claimed), and IPX8 water resistance, it's a solid workhorse for users who want a big screen that lasts. However, the LCD panel lacks AMOLED vibrancy, the fitness tracking is basic, and there's no GPS. For users who prioritize endurance over display quality, it's a decent alternative to the Redmi Watch Move.
The Good
1. Massive 2.0" Display
The largest screen in the sub-₹2,500 segment. Reading notifications, interacting with the UI, and checking health data is easier than on smaller watches.
2. Huge 470mAh Battery
The battery is genuinely impressive. Real-world testing delivers 10–11 days with heavy use, and light users can stretch to 18 days. The 470mAh capacity is larger than most competitors.
3. IPX8 (5 ATM) Water Resistance
Better than IP68 — handles swimming up to 50 meters. The 5 ATM rating is rare at this price and genuine for water sports.
4. Bluetooth 5.3 Calling with Dual-Mic Noise Cancellation
The dual-microphone system with noise reduction delivers clearer call quality than most budget smartwatches. The speaker is surprisingly loud.
5. HyperOS Software
Like the Redmi Watch Move, the 5 Active runs HyperOS with smooth animations, floating notifications, and 200+ watch faces. The software experience is polished for the price.
6. Alexa Built-in
Voice control for smart home devices, weather, and queries. A premium feature at a budget price.
The Bad
1. LCD Display, Not AMOLED
The 2.0" screen is big but lacks vibrancy. Colors are washed out, contrast is poor, and blacks are grey. The Redmi Watch Move's AMOLED is far superior for just the same price.
2. No Always-On Display
Despite the large battery, there's no AOD. You'll need to raise your wrist or press the button to check the time.
3. No Built-in GPS
Connected GPS only — you need your phone for route tracking. Serious runners and cyclists will be disappointed.
4. No Swim Mode Despite 5 ATM Rating
Bizarrely, none of the 140 workout modes are designed for swimming. The water resistance is there, but the software doesn't support it.
5. No Text Reply from Watch
Notifications are read-only — you can't reply to messages or WhatsApp from the watch.
6. Big Bezels
The thick bezels around the display make the watch look less premium than the Redmi Watch Move.
Who Should Buy?
| Buy If | Skip If |
|---|
| You want the biggest battery in the segment | You want AMOLED display quality |
| You need 5 ATM water resistance for swimming | You want always-on display |
| You want a large 2.0" screen | You need built-in GPS |
| You value long battery over display quality | You want to reply to messages from watch |
| You're a Xiaomi ecosystem user | You want slim bezels |
Bottom Line
The Redmi Watch 5 Active is a "battery and water resistance first, display second" smartwatch. The 470mAh battery and 5 ATM rating are genuinely impressive, but the LCD panel and lack of swim mode are puzzling. For users who prioritize endurance and water sports over screen quality, it's a solid choice. But most buyers should get the Redmi Watch Move instead.
Rating: 3.75/5 — Best budget smartwatch for battery and water resistance. AMOLED lovers should look elsewhere.
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