Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro (1.74" Display, 21 Day Battery)

How long does the battery actually last with regular use?

The battery typically lasts 10-18 days depending on your usage patterns. With constant use including sleep monitoring and regular GPS tracking for running sessions, users report 17 days before needing to charge. Basic activity tracking without GPS can extend battery life closer to the full 21-day rating. Heavy users of GPS and notifications may need to charge weekly.

Can I use this for swimming and water sports?

Yes, the 5ATM water resistance rating makes it suitable for swimming and water activities up to 50 metres depth. You can wear it in the shower, pool, or ocean without concern. The sealed construction protects against water damage during intense workouts or unexpected rain. However, avoid pressing buttons underwater as this may compromise the seal.

Does it work properly with iPhones?

The device connects to iPhones via Bluetooth, but some users report connectivity issues requiring occasional re-pairing. The Mi Fitness app is available for iOS and provides full functionality including notifications, health data sync and settings management. If you experience connection problems, try uninstalling and reinstalling the app to restore proper communication.

How accurate is the step counting and GPS tracking?

Step counting accuracy is generally reliable for outdoor walking and running, though it may undercount steps during household activities or slow indoor movement. The built-in GNSS provides more accurate location tracking than standard GPS systems, making it suitable for precise route mapping during outdoor activities. Heart rate monitoring shows good consistency with chest strap monitors during steady-state exercise.

Can I change the measurements from metric to imperial?

No, the device displays measurements in metric units only and cannot be changed to imperial. Distance shows in kilometres, weight in kilograms and temperature in Celsius. This limitation affects the companion app as well. If you prefer imperial measurements, you'll need to mentally convert the displayed values or consider this factor before purchasing.

What's included in the box and do I need additional accessories?

The package includes the watch, strap, charging cable and user manual. The charging cable is a proprietary design that's quite short and no wall adapter is included. You'll need a USB-A wall adapter or computer USB port for charging. The strap comes unattached and requires fitting by aligning the metal clips with the device holes until they click securely.

How difficult is the initial setup process?

Setup experiences vary significantly between users. Some find the process straightforward after downloading the Mi Fitness app and following the pairing instructions. Others report confusion due to unclear documentation and small print in the manual. The device requires smartphone pairing for full functionality and you may need to search online for detailed setup guides as Xiaomi's included instructions are minimal.

What sports modes are available and how do they work?

The device offers 150+ sports modes covering activities from basic walking and running to specialised sports like rock climbing, martial arts and water sports. Each mode tracks relevant metrics such as duration, calories, heart rate and GPS route where applicable. Professional workout analysis provides post-exercise insights, whilst smart run coaching offers real-time guidance during activities to help improve your performance and training effectiveness.