Health

Redmi Watch 3 Active: Basic but better

This might just be the smartwatch to kickstart your fitness journey!

Published

August 9, 2023

MJ Jucutan

I always get questions on which smartwatch to get, knowing that my people know me as the guy who always has the latest smartwatch — changing wearables as if it’s just another pair of underwear.

Being in the intersection between fitness and technology for over three years now, I would attest that smartwatches are expensive. With only a few bucks to spare, you’re lucky to get a functional smart band that can track your basic needs. Up your budget a notch, and you might get a decent smartwatch to accompany you on your fitness journey.

This is where Xiaomi aims to break the barriers of smartwatches. The Redmi Watch 3 Active is an affordable smartwatch that’s definitely a step up from a smart band, especially when it comes to features, design, and of course, price.

Monitor what you only need

Smart bands barely have any screen real estate to preview your fitness data. Smartwatches, on the other hand, are built differently. The same goes with the Redmi Watch 3 Active, which has a 1.83-inch screen that makes it easy to view information.

Truth be told: Smartwatches can get intimidating, especially when it packs plenty of features. I sometimes get overwhelmed when I get my hands on flagship and premium smartwatches. There’s so much going on, tbh.

The Redmi Watch 3 Active, somehow, provides comprehensive data by showing only what you need. With its full-scale fitness tracking, it’s easy to monitor your heart rate and blood oxygen level. You can also see how many calories you’ve burned, how many steps you’ve taken, and if you’ve been moving enough to be closer to your goals.

Tracking your sleep, as well as stress levels, help give an overview of your current lifestyle and what you still need to change. These data may sound overwhelming, but these are pretty basic for a smartwatch. These are the only information you’ll ever need. Nothing fancy, just straightforward figures that might help you in your fitness journey.

The screen is big enough to house plenty of data, and swiping between widgets is easy. Although, not as smooth as most smartwatches. But then again, this smartwatch is considered entry-level, so temper your expectations.

More than just a fitness tracker

The most important indicator of your fitness level, for me, would be your heart rate. It shows how many beats per minute depending on the activity you’re doing. When I was taking photos of the Redmi Watch 3 Active, my heart rate spiked to over 100 bpm since I was under the sun trying out some calisthenics workout with my dip bar.

The accuracy may not be the same as most smartwatches, but seeing my resting heart rate go between 60-65 bpm means it’s close enough to my Apple Watch. FYI, my current resting heart rate as of writing is 58 bpm.

It’s pretty normal for athletes (some actually have lower) to have that low resting heart rate. A good indicator would be having 60 up to 90 bpm, which is counted as normal. If your resting heart rate is around 100 or beyond, it’s time for you to get off the couch and stop being a potato.

If you don’t have a gym membership — and a coach, even — then you don’t have to worry. The Redmi Watch 3 Active is equipped with over 100 workout modes, which include 10 professional workout modes.

It’s highly suitable for beginners since you can find workouts like running, walking, freestyle, hiking, and cycling. There are specific workouts as well, categorized into outdoor activities, training, dancing, combat sports, ball sports, winter sports, and recreational sports.

Suitable companion

After completing my first elite race at Spartan Stadion (a grueling 5KM race with 20 obstacles inside New Clark City’s Athletic Stadium) last mid-July, I took a short hiatus to recover from the race burnout.

Running in a category filled with national and pro athletes was exhausting for my mind, body, and spirit. It was a difficult test of my strength, pride, and willpower. The Redmi Watch 3 Active came a week after, prompting me to get back to taking care of my body with grace.

Somehow, the smartwatch’s advent into my life has impeccable timing. It was raining in Manila, endlessly, for days. I also didn’t have the energy to sign up back to the gym and start my training for Spartan’s Trifecta Weekend in November, dealing with post-race blues and personal affairs that caused me to lose weight.

I knew I had to resume training. Luckily, the Redmi Watch 3 Active’s different workout modes accompanied me in getting my strength back.

Train your mind and body

With jump rope as a workout mode, I get to measure my skips in the morning. There are also workouts that are highly specific depending on your equipment such as Dumbbell, Wall Ball, Barbell, Weightlifting, Deadlift, Burpee, and Sit-Ups.

Something more general includes strength, physical training, and functional fitness training. If you’re focused on certain parts of your body, the workout modes have the option to focus on the upper body, lower body, abs, and back.

As for me, I only pick functional fitness training when I do home workouts since I use bodyweight exercises that help with my athletic performance. When I’m training my muscle strength, I opt to do calisthenics using my dip bars and pull-up bar. There are no guides if you’re clueless about what workouts to do.

The training modes just allow you to see how many kilocalories you’re burning, the duration of your workout, and the intensity of your heart rate while performing the exercises. It’s usually categorized between light, intensive, aerobic, anaerobic, and VO2 Max — which refers to the maximum oxygen consumption. Usually, that’s when you hit your limit.

For everyday life

The Redmi Watch 3 Active pairs easily whether on an Android smartphone or an iPhone. With only the Mi Fitness app, you can see comprehensive data regarding your health and fitness.

Since it pairs seamlessly with any smartphone, the smartwatch makes it easy to read notifications, answer calls, check your calendar, and adjust music playback. You can even remotely capture photos from your phone using just the camera button on the smartwatch!

Even if it’s connected with Bluetooth and WiFi, the smartwatch lasts for at least 7 days — even when using it for different workouts. When on standby, the Redmi Watch 3 Active also indicates how much battery is left and how many days it would last. Fun fact: With several settings off and a full battery, the smartwatch promises up to 12 days of battery life.

In a way, the Redmi Watch 3 Active gives off an everyday smartwatch vibe. It has all the bells and whistles of a smartwatch, in a design that looks elegant when working out and balancing work and life.

The watch faces are customizable, with over 200 options to choose from. It also comes with optional straps to match your everyday style. Lastly, it’s lightweight and waterproof with a 5ATM. Just what you need out of a reliable smartwatch!

Is this your GadgetMatch?

The Redmi Watch 3 Active is quite packed for an affordable smartwatch. It has everything you’ll need to kickstart your fitness journey, and a little bit more. You can stop making excuses about having a smartwatch before starting to work out or sign up for a gym membership. This one’s highly affordable, priced at PhP 1,999, and available at Xiaomi’s exclusive Shopee store.

It’s not as smooth, powerful, and feature-packed as most smartwatches. You’ll need to shell out money for that, especially if you want to elevate your performance. But if you’re just starting out, this smartwatch is a must-have to cop. Xiaomi breaks the notion that smartwatches have to be expensive to be functional. The Redmi Watch 3 Active might just be the best value-for-money smartwatch right now.

Related Topics:Redmi Redmi Watch 3 Active Xiaomi

Accessories

Dyson Zone Air-Purifying Headphones: One Month Later

Do you really need one?

Published

June 26, 2023

GadgetMatch

The Dyson Zone Air-Purifying headphones offers more than just its gimmick-y futuristic design.

The fact that this device tackles both noise and air pollution is a godsend for someone who lives in a bustling city like New York.

But do you really need one?

Head over to Michael Josh’s one month later with the Dyson Zone Air-Purifying Headphones to find out if it’s your GadgetMatch.

Check it out
https://howl.me/cj0ZIYJkEF7

Health

Dyson unveils new lineup of intelligent home cleaning tech

Including wet vacuums!

Published

May 23, 2023

Carol RH Malasig

Technology company Dyson has introduced a new, groundbreaking lineup of intelligent technologies aimed at revolutionizing the way we clean our homes. With a focus on automation, advanced software, and cutting-edge engineering, the new range of products promises to deliver unparalleled cleaning performance and create healthier living environments.

At a recent event in Singapore, Dyson Chief Technology Officer John Churchill unveiled the company’s latest technologies. Providing a glimpse into their vision for the future of clean homes. Drawing on decades of expertise in filtration, airflow, motors, software, and robotics, Dyson aims to simplify home maintenance and alleviate the burden of cleaning. “Our future vision is of a home that can look after itself,” Churchill said. “The new technologies launched today are the embodiment of this–the most powerful robotic vacuum cleaner, intelligent, large-room purification, and, for active cleaning, new cordless vacuums and cleaner head technologies that offer adaptive, multifunctional cleaning when and where you need it.”

The newly unveiled technologies incorporate robotics, sensing capabilities, and intelligent software to enable a more efficient and effective cleaning process. By understanding the surrounding environment and the cleaning task at hand, Dyson’s products can automatically adapt and respond to provide optimal cleaning results. This intelligent approach is made possible through precise sensors, sophisticated software algorithms, and advanced mechanical technologies.

Dyson 360 Vis Nav

One of the highlights of Dyson’s new lineup is the Dyson 360 Vis Nav robotic vacuum. It represents the next generation of intelligent and independent cleaning devices. With six times the suction power of any other robot vacuum, this innovative device incorporates Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) technology.

It can remember areas it has cleaned, create dust maps of the home, and navigate with precision, even cleaning right up to the edges of a room. Equipped with a triple-action brush bar, it effectively cleans different floor types and can maneuver under furniture effortlessly.

Big+Quiet Formaldehyde

Dyson’s commitment to clean air is evident in the Dyson Purifier Big+Quiet Formaldehyde. Designed for large spaces, this purifier delivers powerful air projection with an impressive 10-meter range. Notably, it operates quietly at just 56 decibels, providing a peaceful environment. Equipped with advanced sensors, the purifier automatically detects and purifies pollutants as they arise. Its HEPA H13 particle filter traps ultrafine particles, while the K-Carbon filter removes gas pollutants and effectively eliminates formaldehyde. Real-time air quality data is sent to the user’s smartphone via the MyDysonTM app for continuous monitoring.

Dyson Gen5detect

Moving away from their usual naving conventions, Dyson’s Gen5detect cordless vacuum sets new standards in suction power and versatility. Powered by the fifth-generation Hyperdymium motor, it offers unparalleled performance, capable of capturing viruses within the home.

Its fully sealed, whole-machine HEPA filtration system ensures that particles as small as 0.1 microns are effectively trapped. The vacuum’s Fluffy OpticTM cleaner head reveals microscopic dust particles, allowing for precise cleaning. With a fade-free, energy-dense battery, users can enjoy extended cleaning sessions of up to 70 minutes.

Dyson Submarine

In a breakthrough for wet cleaning, Dyson introduces the Dyson Submarine wet roller head. This attachment, compatible with select Dyson vacuum models, efficiently removes spills, stains, and small debris from hard floors. Engineered with an innovative hydration system, it ensures an optimal amount of water distribution for thorough cleaning without over-saturation. Its motor-driven microfiber roller effectively tackles dirt and debris. The low-profile design and full-width brush bar allow for effortless maneuvering even in tight spaces.

Dyson’s latest innovations embody the company’s mission to create healthier homes with minimal effort. By integrating automation, advanced software, and intelligent features, Dyson aims to transform the cleaning experience. With the ability to adapt to different cleaning tasks and environments, these technologies offer unmatched performance and convenience. Dyson’s commitment to innovation and its relentless pursuit of cutting-edge technologies continue to redefine the future of home cleaning.

As the demand for efficient and intelligent cleaning solutions grows and the desire for healthier living spaces increases, Dyson remains at the forefront of delivering groundbreaking home cleaning technologies. With their extensive expertise in motor engineering, filtration systems, and robotics, Dyson continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in home cleaning.

By incorporating intelligent sensors, powerful motors, and advanced software, Dyson’s new range of products is designed to streamline the cleaning process and minimize the time and effort required. These technologies are a testament to Dyson’s commitment to providing innovative solutions that enhance the well-being of homeowners.

As of publishing, availibility and pricing for these upcoming launches are yet to be announced.

Accessories

Garmin Edge 540, 840 series: Price, availability in the Philippines

Cyclists, PSA! There’s a new bike computer for you~

Published

May 15, 2023

GadgetMatch

Cyclists, let’s go!

Garmin has just unveiled the Edge 540 and Edge 840 series in the Philippines, the company’s new state-of-the-art devices for cyclists. The new bike computers were unveiled during an exhilarating breakfast ride around the Taktak C6 loop, together with a group of 60 cyclist attendees.

With the new lineup of devices, cyclists can expect performance-based training metrics, personalized coaching, advanced navigational support, and more — packed in a lightweight, sleek, yet rugged design.

Cutting-edge features for cyclists

The Edge 540 and 840 series come with new, innovative features. Cyclists can now identify their strengths and weaknesses, and prepare for the demands of a specific course by focusing training in the right areas.

There’s a Targeted Adaptive Coaching feature, encouraging riders to follow daily suggested workouts and training prompts. Personalized coaching also adapts based on training load, recovery, and the demands of upcoming events.

With real-time stamina, cyclists can also monitor and track exertion levels during a ride to see how to maintain their current pace. Along with Power Guide, cyclists can manage their efforts with power targets throughout the course.

On certain routes, the ClimbPro ascent planner feature can help cyclists with each climb, offering a preview of the remaining ascent and grade through the Edge or the Garmin Connect smartphone app.

There’s also the multi-band GNSS technology for enhanced positioning accuracy. Moreover, the solar models from the Edge series use Power Glass solar charging lens, extending the battery life to up to 60 hours in battery saver.

Advanced training metrics

Aside from the new features, the Edge 540 and 840 series are packed with advanced training metrics. Insights from Firstbeast Analytics showcase the VO2 max, training status and training load, recovery time, and more.

When cyclists are wearing a compatible Garmin smartwatch, they can also receive a more holistic view of their overall health and wellness. During a ride, Edge 540 and 840 series allow riders to see how their body holds up in different environments with heat and altitude acclimation. The bike computers also set up in-ride notifications when it’s time to refuel or rehydrate.

Stay safe and connected

Get peace of mind through built-in safety and tracking features like LiveTrack, group messaging, and incident detection for all cycling activities.

The Edge 540 and 840 series are also compatible with the Varia line of cycling radars and headlights, as well as inReach devices with SOS capabilities and communication when off-the-grid.

When training indoors, the Edge 540 and 840 series easily pair with Tacx indoor smart trainers, too. The bike computers can also be paired with the Garmin Connect app to create and send courses, view all the technical details from a ride, log personal achievements, and more.

Price and availability

The Garmin Edge 540 Solar and Edge 840 Solar are priced at PhP 27,990 and PhP 34,490 respectively. The non-solar Edge 540 currently retails for PhP 21,970, while the non-solar Edge 840 retails for PhP 27,990. Sensor bundles for each device are also available.

Visit Garmin Philippines’ website or Facebook page for more information about the new Edge Series.