Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro vs 9 – the main 5 differences

The Xiaomi Band 9 Pro and Band 9 are two devices I’ve spent a good amount of time with, and while they have plenty in common, there are some key differences that make them stand out in their own ways. If you’re trying to decide between the two, here’s what I’ve noticed after using them both for a few weeks.

The duo sticks to the winning Xiaomi formula. Bright AMOLED displays with a peak of 1200 nits ensure clarity in any environment, whether you’re glancing at your steps or checking notifications on a sunny day. They also share a robust health tracking suite and the same smartphone app. Water resistance up to 5 ATM is another shared strength, as is the battery life.

Neither of these two skimps on essential features, which is why Xiaomi’s fitness bands remain a favourite among many. But the differences, while subtle, can be the deciding factor for you.

Don’t forget to read my hands-on reviews of both devices (Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro, Xiaomi Smart Band 9). You can check out both devices on Xiaomi’s website and Amazon.

Display & screen size differences

The first thing you’ll notice when comparing these two devices is the screen. The Band 9 Pro’s 1.74-inch AMOLED display immediately feels bigger and better. The extra screen real estate, combined with its sharp 336 x 480-pixel resolution, makes everything easier to read. Whether you’re glancing at notifications or navigating menus, it’s a step up. It also just feels more modern and polished.

The Band 9’s 1.62-inch AMOLED display is no slouch. It’s bright, colourful, and perfectly functional, but next to the Pro, it feels a bit cramped. The resolution, 192 x 490 pixels, doesn’t quite have the same clarity either. While it’s fine for most tasks, if you’re someone who likes using their band as a smartwatch replacement, the Pro’s screen is the better option. If you are after something with more of a fitness tracker feel – the non-Pro is the go-to option.

Positioning & GPS functionality

This is one of the areas where the Pro absolutely shines. The standalone GPS on the Band 9 Pro makes it a fantastic choice for anyone who likes to leave their phone behind during workouts. I took it out for multiple runs and didn’t have to worry about carrying my phone—it tracked my route perfectly. In fact, consistently its was as accurate and as quick to connect as the Garmin on my other wrist.

The Band 9, on the other hand, relies on connected GPS. This means you’ll need your phone nearby if you want to track routes or location-based activities. While that’s not a huge deal for casual users, it’s a bit of a letdown if you’re serious about outdoor workouts.

Another thing the Band 9 Pro has over the 9 is an electronic compass. It is particularly useful for outdoor activities such as hiking, running, or cycling, where knowing your direction can help with navigation. Unlike GPS, which tracks your location on a map, the compass provides real-time directional information (north, south, east, west) and helps you maintain your bearings.

Size & weight

At first glance, the size and weight differences between the two bands might not seem like a big deal, but they really are noticeable. The Band 9 Pro is wider at 43.27 x 32.49 x 10.8 mm, and heavier at 24.5 grams. Personally, I liked this extra weight—it gave the Pro a more substantial, premium feel on my wrist.

The Band 9, on the other hand, is lighter at just 15.8 grams. So much so that you will probably not notice it is sitting on your wrist. It’s also slightly taller at 46.53 x 21.63 x 10.95 mm. As mentioned, one has a smartwatch feel, the other a classic fitness band feel.

Build material

If you value premium design, the Band 9 Pro has an edge. The aluminum alloy frame, paired with a high-strength fiber polymer shell and 2.5D reinforced glass, makes it feel much more expensive than it is. The colors—especially Obsidian Black and Rose Gold—look sleek and classy. It’s clear Xiaomi put some effort into making the Pro stand out.

The Band 9, while still well-built, doesn’t have quite the same flair. The sandblasted aluminum alloy body feels durable but not as refined. That said, it’s available in a wider range of colours, including fun options like pink and blue, which might appeal to a younger audience. And you have other options for wearing it – as a pendant and an attachment to your shoe.

Battery capacity & life

Both bands offer solid battery life. With a 350 mAh battery, the Pro allows for around 21 days of regular use or 10 days with the always-on display (AOD) enabled. It’s reliable and consistent, which is exactly what I want from a fitness tracker.

The Band 9 holds its own with a 233 mAh battery, giving similar performance in standard mode but dipping slightly when AOD is turned on. You will get about 9 days with AOD active, which is only slightly less.

The duo uses magnetic charging. It takes about 75 to go from zero to full on the Pro and about an hour for the non-Pro.

My final thoughts

After using both devices, I can say that the Band 9 Pro is the better choice if you’re looking for a more polished and feature-rich experience. The bigger screen, standalone GPS, better battery life, and premium build make it worth the $75 price-tag. That said, the $45 Band 9 is still a fantastic option for anyone after something that looks like a classic fitness band. It delivers all the core features and its price is hard to beat.

For more details don’t forget to read my hands-on reviews (Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro, Xiaomi Smart Band 9). You can check out both devices on Xiaomi’s website and Amazon.

I’ll leave you with a table highlighting only the differences between the two devices:

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