Huawei Band 8 Vs. Xiaomi Smart Band 8: Which Should You Buy?

Xiaomi’s Mi Band and Huawei’s Band line of products have for many generations now duked it out in the affordable fitness tracker space with very similar features and different form factors, all geared towards taking the crown as the best fitness tracker.

In 2023, both Huawei and Xiaomi have their Band 8 devices vying for the top spot. So for someone that’s looking to get one of these, which one tops the other? Which is the one to get? Over the past month, I have been using the Huawei Band 8 and the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 alternatingly and in this post, I take you through my thoughts to help you decide which one to get.

Related:

• Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Review: A Thoughtful Iteration for Mi Band 7 Owners, a Tempting Upgrade for Mi Band 6 Users
• Huawei Band 8 Unveiled: Here’s Pricing, Features, and Everything You Need to Know

Worth noting straight off the bat is that these devices have been evolving slowly over the years and they both offer a wide range of features and functions that make them trade blows on almost all important aspects so whichever you end up picking, you are getting a pretty refined device.

Specifications

Huawei Band 8 and Xiaomi Smart Band 8 are both excellent fitness trackers with their own unique features. Here is a comparison of the two:

Design

The Huawei Band 8 and the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 both stick to their predecessors form factor for the most part. They both spot rectangular screens and a silicone strap that can be replaced with different colors and styles.

Both devices are lightweight and comfortable to wear, and they are water-resistant up to 50 meters. However, there are some differences in the size and shape of the screen. The Huawei Band 8 has a 1.47-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 368 x 194 pixels , while the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 has a 1.62-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 490 x 192 pixels .

The Xiaomi Band 8 ditches its mono-silicon strap in favor of straps that latch on with a new mechanism and that allows you to finally try out different style straps, or even use it as a pendant or mount it on your shoe during that run because why not!?

Display

Both devices have customizable watch faces that can show various information such as time, date, steps, calories, heart rate, weather, notifications , and more. You can also swipe the screen to access different modes and settings.

The Huawei Band 8 has six watch faces to choose from out of the box with many more available via the Huawei Health App, while the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 has 7 watch faces to choose from. You can also download more watch faces from the respective apps.

The panel on the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 has a 60Hz refresh rate and my goodness what a difference does that make? Scrolling the UI feels fluid and smooth. The Xiaomi Smart Band 8’s screen is slightly larger but doesn’t feel like it as it is longer than it is wide, making UI elements and text have to wrap to fit the width.

You can also create your own watch face with your photos from the companion apps with Huawei donning a new feature that helps you design a fancy-looking watchface. The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 has more options and flexibility when it comes to the display, but the Huawei Band 8 has a simpler and cleaner interface.

Battery Life

Fitness trackers are known for their endurance, especially when they’re new before the battery cells start degrading. The Huawei Band 8 has a battery life of 14 days and is powered by a 180mAh battery. On the other hand, the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 offers a longer battery life of 16 days and is equipped with a 190mAh battery.

This is theoretical and your mileage might vary depending on your usage and the features you have turned on. In my testing, both trackers lasted about a week with Always on Display enabled in the Automatic or Smart mode that allows the tracker to turn off the feature when it is not in use like at night to save on juice.

Fitness

What would a fitness tracker be without the ability to track your activity? Well, these two products are pretty polished when it comes to fitness tracking, perhaps due to the years of iteration and improvement that they’ve both seen from the many previous generations.

I am not the most active person but for the little runs and hikes that I take from time to time, these two track my steps to around 10% of each other with the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 overstating the workout but not by much.

The Huawei Band 8 offers more than 100 different exercise modes to track your activities. These modes include running, cycling, swimming, basketball, soccer, and many more. The band also features the Huawei TruSports algorithm that tracks various fitness metrics such as running ability index, VO2Max, recovery time, training load, training effect, and heart rate.

The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 offers more than 150 different exercise modes to track your activities but for even the most seasons fitness enthusiast, both devices track more than you will be able to do. However, it is worth noting that for many of these exercise modes, these bands only log the calories, heart rate, and calories.

Companion App

Both the Mi Fitness app and Huawei Health app are decently polished and well-designed with straightforward ways to interact with your smart band. They both offer detailed overview presentations of the data that the band tracks.

However, I ran into a small issue where the Huawei Health app wasn’t always available on the Google Play Store and it would redirect to the Huawei App Gallery for updates which I thought was a little odd. No such issues exist with the Xiaomi Mi Fitness app.

Sideloading this on an Android wasn’t that much of a hassle but I get why someone who isn’t too savvy might stumble a little when installing and dealing with the Huawei product.

Pricing and Availability

The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 goes for Ksh 6,800 (175,000 UGX, $46, or 36,000 Naira) while the Huawei Band 8 will run you a cool Ksh 7,999 (204,000 UGX, $54, or 43,000 Naira) . While these devices do have their global or international versions, I could only source for the China variants.

While these are pretty similar to international versions, there are a few issues like untranslated watchfaces, and apps like Alipay and Weixin Pay that are built in, can’t be used here and can’t be uninstalled. Also, NFC is pretty much useless.

Verdict

The Huawei Band 8 and the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 are both excellent smart bands that can help you monitor your health and fitness. They have similar designs, displays, battery lives, sensors, and connectivity features, but they also have some differences that might make one more suitable for you than the other.

The Huawei Band 8 has a wider screen that is more usable, and a simpler interface, while the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 has a larger screen, a PAI score. The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 is also slightly cheaper than the Huawei Band 8. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preference and budget.

After almost a month of back and forth, I still don’t have a clear favorite as these two are very evenly matched. That’s to say that whichever you pick on, you’re in for a treat, so let price and your ecosystem preference lead you.

I’m a tech enthusiast and digital explorer based in Kenya passionate about Android, Linux, and the world of custom ROMs. I love tinkering with devices to craft personalized, optimized experiences. When I’m not deep in code or tweaking gadgets, you’ll find me immersed in science fiction, philosophy, or writing about the ever-evolving tech landscape from an African perspective.

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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.

This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.

This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.

READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda

“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”

Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”

The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:

• SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
• Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
• Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
• Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.

Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.

Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]

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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.

The key launches included:

• CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
• MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
• MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
• TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.

Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”

“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”

Laury Bai, TECNO CMO

Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”

James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek

CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography

TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.

Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer

The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”

Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud

The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.

TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability

To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”

Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK

Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.

MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers

The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.

World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14

Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.

TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.

Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm

In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.

The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series

TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.

TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future

Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.

Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.

Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.

With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.

Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]

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