The Redmi Watch 5 Active does not have built-in GPS, which means it requires a phone to be nearby for GPS tracking. This is because it relies on the phone's GPS capabilities to track location and distance during activities like running, walking, or hiking. Without a phone, the watch cannot independently track your route or distance.
For users who need GPS functionality without needing a phone nearby, the Redmi Watch 5 Lite is a better option. It includes built-in GPS (GNSS), allowing for accurate tracking of outdoor activities without the need for a smartphone connection[1][3][9].
The Redmi Watch 5 Active, despite lacking GPS, offers a range of other features such as step counting, calorie monitoring, blood pressure tracking, and stress level monitoring. It also supports over 140 sport modes, though the accuracy of tracking may vary when relying on the phone for GPS data[6][10][12].
Overall, while the Redmi Watch 5 Active is a budget-friendly option with many useful features, its lack of built-in GPS means users must keep their phone nearby for precise location tracking during workouts.
Citations:
[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUw-O7WrWu0
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_X0embE_1U
[3] https://www.reddit.com/r/miband/comments/1i0wqpu/what_do_i_miss_if_i_buy_the_no_gps_version_of/
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=35CrW8HXn9c
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/smartwatch/comments/1fhjftt/redmi_watch_5_lite_first_impressions/
[6] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/technology/reviews/redmi-watch-5-active-review-a-budget-smartwatch-that-doesnt-cut-corners/articleshow/113738161.cms
[7] https://www.mi.com/global/product/redmi-watch-5/
[8] https://versus.com/en/xiaomi-redmi-watch-5-active
[9] https://androidguys.com/reviews/redmi-watch-5-lite-review/
[10] https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/hardware/redmi-watch-5-active-review/
[11] https://www.mi.com/pk/support/faq/details/KA-38278/
[12] https://www.reddit.com/r/Tech_Philippines/comments/1g5lx2k/any_insight_about_redmi_watch_5_active/
[13] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gSaxhlTIlLE
[14] https://www.mi.com/global/product/redmi-watch-5-active/