A Fresh Look at the Xiaomi Watch S5: Design Evolution and First Impressions
The Xiaomi Watch S series has carved out a significant niche in the wearable market, consistently balancing budget-friendly pricing-often hovering around €150 on Amazon-with a robust feature set. Beyond the technical specifications, these devices have earned a reputation for their aesthetic appeal, effectively bridging the gap between a functional fitness tracker and a stylish timepiece.
Refinement Meets Durability: The S5 Upgrade
With the release of the Xiaomi Watch S5, the manufacturer has clearly prioritized a more premium feel. While the previous iteration was well-received, the S5 feels like a genuine step forward in build quality.
One of the most significant design shifts is the removal of the interchangeable bezel system. While some users enjoyed the modularity of the older design, the fixed-bezel approach on the S5 eliminates the risk of losing components and contributes to a more cohesive, rugged chassis. Xiaomi has compensated for this by offering four distinct bezel finishes tied to specific colorways, ensuring that the watch retains a personalized touch.
Colorways and Pricing Tiers
The 46mm variant we are testing showcases the brand’s commitment to variety. The lineup includes:
* Standard Finishes: Black and Silver, starting at €180.
* Premium Finishes: Jungle Green (the model featured in this review) and Ceramic Blue, priced at €200.
The shift toward these more sophisticated color palettes suggests that Xiaomi is positioning the S5 as a fashion-forward accessory rather than just a piece of gym equipment.
Unboxing and Charging Experience
Inside the packaging, you will find the standard essentials: the watch unit, a matching strap, and a proprietary two-pin magnetic charging cable.
It is worth noting that the charging solution remains a point of contention. The cable terminates in a USB-A connector, which feels somewhat dated in an era where USB-C is the industry standard. Furthermore, because the charging puck is non-universal and relies on a specific magnetic alignment, users may find that it requires a bit of precision to ensure a secure connection. Much like trying to plug in a legacy USB device in the dark, it can occasionally take a few attempts to get the pins to seat perfectly.
