Xiaomi Band 9 vs 9 Pro: Detailed Feature and Performance Comparison

The 9Pro is priced at $399, while the 9 NFC comes in at $299. Let’s dive into the wearing experience.

As someone who suffers from tenosynovitis and spends a lot of time using a mouse, I’m incredibly picky about weight—even when wearing something on my left hand. Initially, I leaned toward the 9, but to my surprise, the 9Pro offers a far superior wearing experience. The 9 feels more intrusive, likely due to its smaller contact area, making it less comfortable compared to the smoother, more balanced feel of the 9Pro.

Now, let’s explore the functional differences. Honestly, there aren’t many distinctions between the two models. The 9Pro simply adds a compass and enhanced GPS positioning—features that might not seem groundbreaking but can make a noticeable difference for certain users.

Appearance-wise, this might be what catches most people’s attention (right?). Frankly, before the 9Pro arrived, I thought the 9 had the edge in design. But once I held the actual device, I realized looks aren’t everything. While there are slight visual differences, they’re not dramatic enough to sway most buyers. However, the 9Pro does offer a wider selection of wallpapers, including an adorable blue sea otter theme that elevates its aesthetic appeal significantly over the 9.

Ultimately, given the 9Pro’s larger battery capacity and my need for directional assistance, I decided to stick with the 9Pro. It checks all the boxes for both functionality and style, making it the clear winner for me.