The Amazfit Bip U Pro fitness tracker watch is now the most advanced wearable gadget in the Bip line from Amazfit. However, the gadget is still offered at an affordable price.
As the name suggests, the Bip U Pro is an improved version of the popular Bip U watch. While retaining the advantages of its predecessor, the model brings a couple of new features to the segment of inexpensive fitness trackers. The device has built-in GPS for tracking outdoor workouts and integrated Amazon Alexa voice assistant. But Alexa integration adds little value to the watch, as the assistant is not supported in our region.
However, Huami has done well to offer users built-in GPS in the Bip U Pro, which is one of the few budget wearables with this feature.
Specifications Amazfit Bip U Pro
| Screen | 1.43-inch IPS LCD, 2.5D glass, anti-fingerprint, |
| Communication and positioning | Bluetooth 5.0 BLE, GPS |
| IP rating | 5 ATM |
| Compatibility | Android 5.0, iOS 10.0 and above |
| Built-in microphone | Yes (Alexa only) |
| Sensors | Pulse oximeter, accelerometer, gyroscope, geomagnetic sensor, heart rate |
| Health Tracking | SpO2 measurement, heart rate, stress, sleep, women's health monitoring |
| Sports modes | Over 60 sports modes: steps, calories, running, cycling, yoga, swimming, dancing, skating, kickboxing, activity clock, treadmill, free exercise, etc. Built-in PAI scoring system |
| Smart features | Music control, app, call notifications, messages |
| Strap | Silicone, 20mm wide, 118mm (long version), 76mm (short version) |
| Battery and charging | 230 mAh, charger (2-pin POGO) |
| Dimensions and weight | 40.9×35.5×11.4 mm, 31 grams (with strap) |
For athletes: Amazfit Stratos
Price: from 9,100 rubles
If you want all the workout tracking features you can get, the Amazfit Stratos is worth a look. With a diameter of 46 mm, this is one of the largest models in the manufacturer’s range. It is made in a classic case made of fiberglass-reinforced polycarbonate, with a ceramic bezel, stainless steel buttons and a screen covered with tempered glass. The display uses a transflective LCD matrix, which is always on and is perfectly readable under bright sun.
Stratos have a 5-day battery life with normal use and 35 hours of continuous GPS use. It has 5 ATM water resistance, heart rate and sleep tracking, music storage, and Wi-Fi support. The watch counts steps, calories and distance traveled. As many as 16 sports modes are preinstalled, including swimming. It is also possible to determine the maximum oxygen consumption using a special sensor, which will be useful for athletes who want to improve their performance.
The Stratos doesn't have an AMOLED display, but that's not uncommon among high-end fitness watches. A transflective screen makes more sense in terms of battery life, given the extensive list of available features. Please note that this is a large watch and will not suit users with thin wrists. Another disadvantage of the model is the lack of normal support for third-party applications; on a watch of this level I would like to see a store with various software. Although there are built-in widgets, including a stopwatch, compass, alarm clock, weather forecast, and so on.
Unboxing and kit
The Amazfit Bip U Pro watch comes in a high-quality white cardboard box with shiny model inscriptions on the front side and brief specifications on the back.
Inside the package you will find:
- Sami Bip U Pro
- Magnetic charging cable
- Instructions and documentation.
Monitoring health, heart rate, physical activity
The heart rate sensor is located at the bottom of the watch case. To obtain accurate results, the watch must fit snugly to your hand.
A rare and undeniable advantage of Amazfit Bip among other fitness bracelets is the ability to record workout data on the watch without having a smartphone nearby. You don’t have to take it with you to workout or jog.
Touch sensor
Design and management
The Amazfit Bip U Pro has a very similar look and feel to previous Bip wearables, with a minimalistic, lightweight design and a large, bright screen.
The 1.43-inch rectangular IPS display occupies almost the entire front part, with reasonable bezels on the sides. Although the fitness tracker's screen has a 2.5D anti-fingerprint coating, I found it to get smudged quite easily. Weighing 31 g, the device is almost unnoticeable and is comfortable to wear without taking it off.
While some fitness trackers masquerade as classic watches, the design of the Bip U Pro sticks to a sporty aesthetic, although it doesn't look premium like more expensive Amazfit watches. The silicone strap, like the case, is available in three colors: black, pink and green . If you want a versatile smartwatch, you'll have to invest in a more expensive model.
You can navigate the interface using the single physical button on the right side, or by swiping across the touchscreen. They have Bip U Pro from Amazfit and are waterproof - 5 ATM. This allows you to safely use the gadget during water training, for example, in the pool. I tested the protection in practice, the device worked normally, even after diving under water.
Amazfit GTS water resistance
The Amazfit GTS watch is waterproof to a depth of up to 50 meters, and the water should not be salty (sea, ocean). The manufacturer guarantees full operation of the watch when exposed to splashes, rain or snow, while swimming in fresh water, or taking a cold shower. However, the watch cannot be used during scuba diving, high-speed water sports, or diving.
Interface and watch faces
The Amazfit Bip U Pro's interface and controls are intuitive and well-designed, with the touch screen used to confirm selections.
- Raise your wrist and the watch face will light up.
- Swipe left or right to access basic functions (activity goals, heart rate, blood saturation, stress, PAI, weather, music controls, Alexa assistant).
- Swiping down will open quick settings, swiping up will display the notifications section from your smartphone.
- Click on the crown to view a list of functions. Holding when pressed will switch to training mode.
You can set dozens of different watch faces to give your Bip U Pro a new look every time. Four of them are supplied by default, the rest can be added through the Zepp application. All of them are suitable for different use cases and can display, for example, a heart rate graph, PAI progress or activity data. Many can be edited from the wrist, changing the displayed readings.
Amazfit GTR 47 mm
This is a kind of classic in the Amazfit world: the watch looks like a familiar mechanical one. The round dial and the bezel around it evoke thoughts about this. The watch has a metal case and a silicone strap; if desired, it can be replaced with any other one: either leather or fabric, because there is a universal mount for a 22 mm strap. There is also a version of the watch with an aluminum case.
The round screen of the watch is protected by Gorilla Glass 3; it is also slightly recessed into the body relative to the frame - additional protection. Display with a resolution of 454 × 454 pixels and a diagonal of 1.39 inches with an AMOLED matrix, Always On function and a large brightness reserve.
The watch measures the distance traveled, heart rate, collects statistics during training, and you can choose one of twelve available activities.
The watch is claimed to last 24 days during normal use, and in energy-saving mode it will last two and a half months.
Promotion price: Amazfit GTR costs 8,990 rubles.
Application and Performance
Huami Amazfit also owns the Zepp smartwatch brand. Therefore, the data collected and recorded by Bip U Pro is stored in the Zepp app.
Navigating the Zepp app is simple and straightforward, with convenient sections for workouts, sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, and device settings. It is possible to add additional data to certain sections of the software - for example, answer questions about activities during the past evening in the sleep log that could affect the quality of the collected data.
The Zepp app needs to make improvements related to health information from verified sources or research. Although there are now bold claims about how late bedtime accelerates aging, they do not contain evidence.
Amazfit GTS package contents
In a nice-looking box made of thick cardboard, in addition to the watch itself, there is a cradle for charging it, a strap and instructions in several languages, including Russian.
Training and GPS
Amazfit Bip U Pro comes with over 60 workout modes including running, swimming, cycling, elliptical and walking.
If you're doing exercises that aren't on the watch, you can simply add it as a "free exercise." The device will track your heartbeat and the number of calories burned.
In terms of sensors, there is a motion sensor, an accelerometer and a gyroscope to monitor indoor activity, display the number of steps and activate automatic sleep monitoring. The watch will collect statistics on steps taken, number of times you stood up, calories burned, distance traveled, etc.
During testing, I was only able to try out the walking and running modes. Several times I left my phone and went for a walk in the park to evaluate the accuracy of the GPS sensor. I was pleasantly surprised by the accuracy with which my location was determined. GPS positioning may take a few seconds to work, but once the process is complete, you can easily display all the activity.
Only once did the Bip U Pro lose the signal during the tests, but it was quickly installed and the positioning was recorded. Using GPS will drain your battery much faster, so be sure to check your battery level after you return from an outdoor workout.
Amazfit Bip Pro U runs on Amazfit's own OS, which does not have support for some third-party apps like MyFitnessPal or Spotify. However, this Amazfit wearable is compatible with WeChat, Google Fit and Relive, and you can also transfer data to Strava.
Amazfit GTS Software
Using the watch requires installing the official Amazfit app on both Android (link) and iOS (link) smartphones. Some settings can only be set here. At the same time, the “Apple” version of the application is fully functional and works quite correctly.
When you turn it on for the first time, the watch displays a QR code that you need to scan in the Amazfit app. This procedure will allow you to pair with your smartphone via Bluetooth. If desired, you can create a pair manually.
It is on the smartphone that you can change and add new watch faces created by other users for the wrist device, because there are only a few of them preinstalled on the Amazfit GTS.
You can install themes on your watch from third-party applications, which are easy to find on Google Play.
In addition, if desired, it is possible to create your own dials, for example, with a declaration of love to a girl.
This design of the Amazfit GTS watch will be an original gift for the New Year, February 14, or birthday.
The application configures the behavior of the watch for various types of events: notifications, alarms, screen unlocking.
Here you can set a goal for future activities and see your statistics for previous days: sleep quality, steps, heart function.
There are quite a few menus in the application; they allow you to fine-tune the Amazfit GTS and its desktops according to the needs of the owner.
The operating system of the watch itself is closed ; installation of third-party applications is not provided .
PAI rating system
Xiaomi Amazfit Bip U Pro has a built-in sports activity tracking function using the PAI physiological indicator.
The system encourages you to score 100 points each week in workouts using heart rate. As you improve, it becomes harder to score and you have to train harder. It's a good all-around system for beginners, although not as motivating as the Apple Watch.
The most important things to know about the Amazfit GTS watch
- Amazfit GTS price is 3 times cheaper than Apple Watch Series 5;
- Very nice design, reminiscent of an Apple watch. The device is offered in six colors.
- The average operating time of the watch on one charge is 14 days;
- You can activate the screen by raising your wrist or pressing the wheel button.
- The watch is waterproof, you can swim and shower in it.
- Bright AMOLED screen with a diagonal of 1.65 inches, resolution 348 × 442 pixels.
- Third-party applications cannot be installed. Most of the settings are available in the Amazfit application on your smartphone.
- Heart rate measurement is quite accurate for any sports activity, except swimming training.
- There is no speaker or microphone. There is vibration.
Monitoring body parameters
The device is capable of continuously monitoring heart rate (HR) using the advanced BioTracker 2 PPG sensor.
The readings are relatively accurate, given the fact that earlier models provided very rough readings. Amazfit is working on its products to improve their tracking capabilities.
With the Amazfit Bip U Pro, you will also be able to measure SpO2 readings and stress levels, which are also largely accurate. Even the Amazfit GTR 2 - the company's more expensive watch - often failed to measure, finding problems in the way I placed my hand. I had no such problems with the Bip U Pro.
Other health tracking features include deep breathing timers and women's health cycle monitoring. To get data on your stress level, you should not move your hands for about 30 seconds. The resulting data will be displayed as a score from 1 to 100, divided into relaxed, normal, medium and high stress.
Stress measurements can be set to be constant throughout the day or taken manually. Plus, you'll get reminders to get up and move if you've been sitting too long, and notifications when you've reached your daily goal.
How to connect your watch to your phone
Setting up Amazfit Bip for synchronization with a smartphone is done using the Xiaomi Mi Fit application (downloaded from the AppStore or Play Market). You need to install and log in to Mi Fit, then follow these steps:
- Click "Select device".
- In the “Clock” line, select “Amazfit Bip”.
- Synchronization is performed automatically. The user only needs to confirm the operation.
Important! If the application has started an automatic update, do not turn off the device until it is completed.
How to set up Amazfit Bip with Android
When setting up Amazfit Bip from scratch, the gadget itself reminds the user of the need to synchronize with the smartphone. This is done like this:
- Log in to the Mi Fit app.
- Add a new device, in this case it is Amazfit Bip.
- Synchronization will occur automatically.
- A completion notification will be indicated by the appearance of a corresponding icon on the screen.
- Confirm the action by pressing.
- Once the pair is created, the firmware update process begins.
Sleep monitoring
Naturally, Huami Amazfit Bip U Pro is equipped with a sleep tracking option, which includes total sleep and wake time.
You can also use an advanced tracking mode, on a scale of up to 100 points, which affects battery life. Over time, you will begin to see differences in sleep duration, time to fall asleep, average deep stage efficiency, and whether things are getting better or worse.
What opportunities do smart watches provide?
A smart watch is a small but very functional gadget that allows you not only to determine the time.
With this device, the owner will be able to monitor the quality of sleep and the level of physical activity, the number of calories burned, the level of oxygen in the blood and many other indicators of the body's vital functions.
Many devices also have additional sensors and modules for spatial orientation..
Such models are perfect for tourists and travelers, because with the help of a regular watch the user can get directions or determine their location.
Smart features
While Alexa integration is a key upgrade over the Bip U version (the other being GPS), the feature is not supported in our region.
To receive notifications from smartphones about incoming calls or messages in instant messengers (WhatsApp/Viber), they must be enabled through the application. The user is offered various options, depending on the programs installed on the smartphone. Although you won't be able to answer them, it's a convenient feature that helps you remove your phone from your pocket less often. Notifications are easy to read and clear, but don't display emojis, and apostrophes are separated by a lot of space after them, which looks a little awkward.
It is also possible to play and control music from a connected smartphone through a special screen. Unfortunately, Bip U Pro does not allow you to download music to the watch for offline playback; you will not be able to use music applications or connect Bluetooth headphones.
The user also has access to options such as a compass, weather, standard alarm clock and stopwatch. The variety of apps on this smartwatch is greater than most of its competitors, making this Amazfit model more useful in everyday life.
Primary settings
Are as follows:
- Customizing the main menu: disabling unnecessary options, placing useful ones in the right order. This is done through “Clock Screen Settings”.
- Change of dial design.
- Weather settings require you to enter your location. The system can determine it independently, but manual input affects the quality of the result and the speed of updating information.
- Alarms can be controlled from the watch, but setting a new value or making changes can only be done from a smartphone via the Mi Fit application.
- Linking notifications. Carried out via smartphone.
Manage and configure alerts
Autonomy Amazfit Bip U Pro
Amazfit claims that the Bip U Pro's battery life is up to fifteen days in watch mode, nine days with normal use, and five with intensive use.
During testing, I found that the stated figures were largely true - I did not have to reach for the charger for several days, despite a fair amount of activity. Given that the more expensive GTS 2 lasts about seven days on average, the Amazfit Bip U Pro is more durable - and costs half the price.
The package includes a magnetic charging cable, familiar from other Bip series gadgets. Charges the battery with energy until it is fully ready in about two hours.
Settings menu
Most settings are controlled through an application on a smartphone. From here it is possible to set an alarm clock, sports options, and measure body indicators.
Through the watch you can access the standard database:
- Setting the time and date.
- Timer management.
- Reset alerts and notifications.
How to enter settings
Standard functions of Amazfit Bip are controlled from the corresponding gadget menu. Access to additional functions and features is only available through the Android or iOS application installed on your smartphone.
Healthy! The link with the QR code is in the instruction manual and the watch box.
How to set the language on your Amazfit watch
The language is automatically configured the first time you turn it on and load the settings. The official firmware downloaded via Mi Fit has an international license and is completely Russified, that is, completely in Russian and no additional intervention is needed.
How to set the time
Before setting up your Amazfit Bip watch, log into the device interface and do the following:
- Select the “Clock Screen Settings” menu.
- In the list of options that opens, enter “Clock”.
- Set the desired time.
- Click the “Save” option.
Heart rate monitor
It is configured in the “Mode” interface and is included in the standard version of WatchFace. Displays the heart rate shown one minute ago on the screen. Displayed immediately after switching and before exiting to another menu.
Setting up GPS
It cannot be configured; it is activated automatically when the wearer’s sports activity is detected. Deactivated at the end of the workout. Works in offline mode, when outdated coordinates are detected, it independently launches an update at the next synchronization.
WhatsApp Notifications
Before setting up notifications on Xiaomi Amazfit, you need to log in to the Mi Fit application. The next procedure is as follows:
- Go to "App Notifications".
- Select "Manage Applications".
- Find Whatsapp and open access to it.
Healthy! Setting up notifications for other applications is done in the same way.
Amazfit Bip screen
The device has a touch screen with LCD display and the possibility of mechanical control. Amazfit Xiaomi uses watchface technology, which allows it to be “equipped” with customizable information. The basic setting displays a minimum of information:
- Time.
- Pulse.
- Steps taken.
Other models may display additional information and may differ in location and display style. The operating instructions suggest 2 ways to adjust the dial:
- Through synchronization with a smartphone and entering “Theme Settings”.
- From the smartwatch settings menu.
AmazFit smart watch screen display
Weather display
The current situation is displayed on the screen after entering the Weather interface. Information about the forecast for the coming days is also stored here. Geodata updating on Amazfit is carried out via Bluetooth. In order not to block the channel for receiving reports, it is recommended to leave Bluetooth activated.
Interface failure occurs due to failure to receive a signal and will be displayed as a message.
Weather app
Compass for Amazfit Bip
When you first enter the compass page, perform the standard settings:
- Go to the longitude and latitude page and activate GPS.
- Go to the altitude page and activate GPS.
Attention! It will take 2-3 minutes to start GPS.
Once you enter Outdoor Running mode, your location is automatically taken into account. The instruction manual emphasizes: after the coordinates are redisplayed, a notification is sent to the watch.
Compass app
How to set up a smart alarm clock
The alarm can be controlled from the watch or the Mi Fit application. Ten temporary values can be set. It works according to the classic principle:
- Possibility of setting a melody or vibration for the call.
- When notified, it displays 2 options: “turn off” or “Remind me later”.
- Restart after 10 minutes.
- After the sixth continuous signal and no action is performed, it turns off.
Smart alarm clock
Setting up contactless payment and music
Amazfit Bip and Amazfit Bip Lite models do not support bank card linking options. Smart watches do not support audio and video player.
Adjusting screen brightness
Adjustment is carried out through the built-in menu. The option is at the bottom of the list. Through it, you can choose one of five results:
- Zero – backlight is disabled.
- The fifth is the maximum.
Sufficient power is created at one of the middle levels.
Endomondo app on Amazfit Bip
Endomondo is a popular social network for sports and fitness enthusiasts. Users track health indicators and sports achievements. Logging in, setting up and managing your profile in the Endomondo application is only possible through a smartphone. The transfer of data concerning the athlete is carried out according to the principle:
- The smart watch reads the indicators and transmits them to a synchronized device (smartphone).
- Android uploads the results to the application.
- Endomondo matches them with the existing database.
Setting up the Endomondo app
Packaging and equipment
The packaging of the watch was a pleasant surprise. Now, instead of a rather large, cubic box, we get compact packaging in an “eco” style.
There is a branded sticker on the package, so it is impossible to get the watch without discreetly opening it.
Amazfit's equipment does not change from version to version - watch, charging cable, instructions. Sometimes you can find sets with an additional original belt, but usually such generosity occurs only during major sales. Speaking of original straps, Amazfit has them of good quality.
A week with new clothes. First impressions
If there are problems with the pulse, the watch zealously notifies the owner
I’ll say right away: I’m a rabid Android user, and I couldn’t find something brighter. Especially in bright colors, of which there are 6 pieces available.
Yes, the color scheme of my Amazfit GTS is not very bright, but on the hand they are prettier than what the company produced before. And I absolutely don’t want to go back to Bip.
In real life, they are nicer than Samsung (dull screens and a slightly “rubbery” look) and in no way worse than Apple Watch. As for the possibilities, it’s worse here; NFC would still be very useful. They promise after the New Year.
But with notifications it’s more difficult than with Pace or Bip
As a companion gadget, the GTS works great, accurately tracking activity. And they always send notifications, unlike the latest Xiaomi wearables.
Longer testing will show the survivability and accuracy of the new product in various scenarios, which I will introduce to our readers later.
So far I haven’t even been able to drain the battery more than once: when using training and GPS, on average it shows 14 days without recharging . If you do not turn off the tracking, it will last for a day.
In alert mode, Amazfit GTS work freely for up to 45 days, like their cheap predecessors. And the 220 mAh LiPo cell charges in just 2 hours.
Sensors and accuracy
Although the sensor is accurate, there are still certain questions about it
The set of sensors is quite standard: 6-axis acceleration sensor, 3-axis magnetic sensor, light sensor, air pressure sensor, PPG sensor for measuring heart rate.
Due to this, walking and basic types of running are determined correctly . More complex activities require manual tracking to correctly identify the view.
Swimming, however, works correctly - at least the fact of diving is practiced instantly. Probably the same thing happens when changing altitudes.
Steps are measured correctly. But only when walking
GPS tracking is present - its own autonomous module works. And it does it well, at a modern level. Half a meter to the right and left, in my opinion, is trifles.
The pulse is determined more accurately than in gadgets of the previous generation. There is also a fashionable feature for detecting arrhythmia, which works a little easier than in the Apple Watch 5 .
Tracking occurs both at the user’s direction and continuously according to a certain cycle, which is set either by the type of activity or by the general firmware.
The statistics are correct and quite informative. It is a pity that it cannot include the pressure measurement available in China: this function is blocked for Europe.
The player controls work great. No own memory
In the meantime, everything is more than satisfactory. By the way: all of the above applies to both Android and iOS. The “Apple” version of the application is fully functional, unlike the neutered Mi Fit produced by Xiaomi.
The application works equally well on all platforms without any restrictions whatsoever. “Bubnov”, familiar to users from the Mi Band, is not here. In fact, this is the only alternative. And they can compete with the fifth ones, if you don’t forget about the price.
Notifications
The notification settings you want to receive are standard for all Amazfit watches.
You select the applications from which you want to receive notifications on your watch. Additionally, you can choose to receive notifications only when your phone's screen is turned off. Due to the square screen, notifications are very comfortable to read. When you receive a long message, you can scroll through it. 8 lines of text fit on the screen. Notifications display emoticons, but not all of them yet. Also, not all applications display icons. There is no response to notifications on the watch.
Autonomy
On average, the watch will have to be charged every 7-9 days.
It should be taken into account that measuring SpO2 consumes a lot of charge and if you plan on frequent measurements, then one charge will last you about 3-4 days. With a large number of notifications, heart rate measurement every minute, sleep monitoring, SpO2 measurement 3 times a day, one charge of the watch lasted me less than 5 days.
