Xiaomi Band 9 Pro vs Band 8 Pro the five key differences

The Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro is a step up from its predecessor, the Band 8 Pro, in ways that feel purposeful rather than flashy. While it keeps the same core identity, there are some upgrades sprinkled in.

The latest device in the series landed in October 2024, following the Band 8 Pro, which came out in August 2023. These fitness trackers are a decent option for anyone who wants solid health and activity tracking without spending a fortune. Whether you’re someone who just likes to keep an eye on steps and sleep or you’re into detailed workout stats, both bands fit the bill. They’re designed to be affordable yet packed with features.

So, what sets the two generations apart? It turns out, not that much. But here are the six key differences you should know.

Also, don’t forget to check out my hands-on reviews of both the Band 9 Pro and Band 8 Pro. The devices are available on Xiaomi’s website and Amazon.

Brighter display and smoother design

For starters, there are a few design tweaks worth noting. The Band 9 Pro’s display is an upgrade worth noting, with Xiaomi doubling the peak brightness to an impressive 1200 nits. This makes outdoor visibility far better compared to the Band 8 Pro’s 600 nits, whether you’re checking stats on a sunny run or glancing at notifications. The design also feels more refined, with the 2.5D curved glass replacing the flat glass of its predecessor, giving the tracker a sleeker, more premium look.

Beyond the aesthetics, the Band 9 Pro is slightly smaller, measuring 43.27 x 32.49 x 10.8 mm compared to the Band 8 Pro’s 46 x 33.35 x 9.99 mm. However, it’s a touch heavier, weighing 24.5 grams against the 22.5 grams of the Band 8 Pro. These subtle changes in size and weight contribute to a more compact and robust feel.

Both devices are 5 ATM rated for water-resistance. However, neither features a physical button, which feels like a trick missed. Relying solely on the touch display can be a bit of a hassle, especially when you’re sweating during an intense run or workout.

The final design difference are the colour options. Band 9 Pro can be picked up in Black, Gold or Pink. Its predecessor in Black or Grey.

Battery that goes the extra mile

Battery life is another area where the Band 9 Pro pulls ahead. With its larger 350 mAh battery, it offers up to 21 days of typical use. Compared to the Band 8 Pro’s 14-day battery, this means less time tethered to a charger. During my testing, the battery easily held up under moderate usage, and users needing it for heavy activity tracking will still find it stretches far.

GPS gets sharper and faster

For runners, cyclists and others who exercise outdoors, the GPS system has been fine-tuned. The Band 9 Pro adds BeiDou satellite support, which complements the existing GPS, Galileo, Glonass, and QZSS systems from the Band 8 Pro. I have thoroughly tested the device and GPS accuracy feels reliable and locks on quicker, rivaling even the likes of Garmin. Whether for running, cycling, or hiking, this improvement is practical and appreciated.

Heart rate monitoring taken up a notch

The heart rate sensor in the Band 9 Pro delivers slightly greater accuracy, particularly during high-intensity workouts or periods of irregular activity. This improvement isn’t just about numbers; it translates into more reliable data for tracking progress and making informed adjustments to your fitness regime. The sensor picks up subtle shifts better, making it a step ahead of its predecessor on this count.

Smoother notifications with better haptics

The addition of a linear vibration motor in the Band 9 Pro makes haptic feedback more precise and satisfying. Vibrations are softer and feel more intentional, whether for alarms, notifications, or activity prompts. It’s a subtle but effective upgrade that adds to the overall user experience.

Refined but not revolutionary

When comparing the Xiaomi Band 9 Pro vs Band 8 Pro, it’s clear the Band 9 Pro doesn’t aim to reinvent the formula but instead refines it in meaningful ways. The upgrades—such as improved GPS, extended battery life, and a sleeker design—come across as thoughtful enhancements rather than mere superficial tweaks. These changes make the Band 9 Pro a more polished and capable tracker, building on the solid foundation of the Band 8 Pro.

Having said that, if you’re already using the Band 8 Pro, though, it’s probably not worth upgrading—there just isn’t enough to justify the leap. However, if you’re a first-time buyer, the Band 9 Pro is the one to go for, offering the best version of Xiaomi’s fitness tracker yet. That said, if you’re looking to save a bit of money, you should be able to snag some great deals on last year’s Band 8 Pro.

Both devices can be purchased on Xiaomi’s website and Amazon.

Here is a table summarising the differences.

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