On the Amazfit lineup are the rectangular GTS series, the circular GTR series, a rugged adventure-focused T-rex series and the Bip series. For the GTR series, the GTR 4 which succeeds the GTR 3 is the latest model. And for the first time ever, there is a mini version called the GTR Mini. The mini version and the higher-end GTR 4 have the same display type and appearance, and share lots of features in common. However, these two differ in several ways. We’ll discuss the differences between the GTR 4 and GTR Mini so that you can make a more informed decision.
GTR Mini vs GTR 4 Full Specification
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GTR Mini vs GTR 4: Which is Better?
Design – GTR Mini has a more durable build
Coming from older GTR models, nothing much has changed. It’s still the same circular and compact design. The GTR 4 and GTR Mini have a very durable build that is equally compact and comfortable to wear. And like almost all Amazfit watches, the GTR 4 and Mini are both rated 5ATM which means it its safe to wear any of these while swimming in the pool.
Meanwhile, clearly from its name, the GTR Mini is a more compact watch than the GTR 4. It’s also 1.35mm slimmer than GTR 4. Moreover, while GTR 4 has an aluminum frame, the mini version has a more durable stainless steel build. As a result, though smaller, it weighs a little more than the GTR 4.
The GTR Mini also has a smaller strap. It ships with 20mm wide straps while the GTR 4 has a 22mm strap just like older GTR models.
Display – GTR 4 has a bigger display
As a result of the difference in case size, the display sizes are also different. While the GTR Mini has a 1.28-inch display, the GTR 4 has a 1.43-inch display. The slightly bigger display means you get to see a little more at a glance.
AMOLED powers the display of both watches and with brightness up to 1000 nits and an ambient light sensor that auto-regulates display brightness, readability is easy on both watches, even under direct sunlight.
Activity Tracking – GTR 4 is Better Equipped
The GTR 4 and GTR Mini are fitness-focused and are well-equipped to track all the ways you move. Both watches will track all your daily activities including steps, calories, stress, blood oxygen, heart rate, and sleep. These two will also track advanced training metrics like VO2 Max, training load, and training effect as well as give you a recovery time. However, the GTR 4 is a more comprehensive activity tracker.
The GTR 4 is equipped to track more activities than the GTR Mini. Both watches have inbuilt GPS but while the mini version supports 5 satellite systems, the GTR 4 supports 6 satellite systems. This results in better coverage. In addition, the GTR 4 supports dual-band GPS which ensures mapping consistency even in difficult terrains. Moreover, you can import routes to the GTR 4 and get navigational guidance for your favorite routes.
The GTR 4 also features more sports modes than the mini version. It ships with 154 sports modes and can auto-track 8 exercises. In contrast, the GTR Mini like the GTS 4 Mini, features 126 sports modes and can auto-track 7 exercises.
So, in terms of activity tracking, the GTR 4 has more features than the GTR Mini.
Music storage – GTR Mini lacks music storage
In addition to having more activity tracking features, the GTR 4 also allows you to store music onboard the watch. This is not possible with GTR Mini.
The GTR 4 is equipped with Wi-Fi that allows you to transfer music from the Zepp app to the watch. You can then listen to these tracks offline by connecting a Bluetooth headphone.
Nonetheless, both GTR 4 and GTR Mini will allow you to control music playing on your phone using the music playback application.
Bluetooth calls – GTR Mini lacks call functionality
In addition to lacking onboard music storage, the GTR Mini also lacks Bluetooth calls. The GTR Mini only has a microphone that enables Alexa and offline voice assistants.
In contrast, the GTR 4 has both a microphone and a speaker. As a result, when there’s an incoming and the watch is nearby, you can answer calls directly on the watch. The GTR 4 also features Alexa and offline voice assistant.
Battery Life – GTR Mini has a longer battery life
Surprisingly, the GTR Mini despite having a smaller size has the same battery life as the GTR 4. Amazfit claims that in typical usage, you can get up to 14 days of battery life with either watch. This is longer than what you get with the GTS series and most other smartwatches.
Which is Better?
Obviously, the GTR 4 is a more comprehensive smartwatch than the GTR Mini. It has more features than the mini version. It has a bigger display, more activity tracking features, music storage and also supports Bluetooth calls. However, it will cost you a little more.
On the other hand, the GTR Mini is slightly cheaper. If you have a tight budget, it’s an awesome bargain.
GTR Mini or GTR 3 Pro
While you’re trying to decide between the GTR Mini and GTR 4, it’s worthwhile to mention the GTR 3 Pro which has music storage, supports Bluetooth calls and features 154 sport modes, this no doubt makes it a decent alternative to the GTR Mini. The good thing here is that the prices are almost the same.
The GTR 3 Pro allows you to store music onboard the watch. It also supports Bluetooth calls and has a bigger display than the GTR Mini.
However, while GTR 3 Pro runs on Zepp 1.0, GTR Mini like GTR 4 runs on Zepp 2.0.
The Zepp 2.0 is the latest operating system for Amazfit watches. It features more apps and offers a more refined user interface. It succeeds Zepp 1.0, and from my investigations, Amazfit Watches running on Zepp 1.0 can’t be upgraded to Zepp 2.0 due to hardware incompatibility.
Also, the GTR Mini with up to 14 days of battery life lasts a little longer than the GTR 3 Pro which has up to 12 days of battery life.
In addition, the GTR Mini with a stainless steel frame has a more durable build than the GTR 3 Pro which has an aluminum alloy build just like GTR 4.
Between the GTR Mini and GTR 3 Pro, it’s a choice between music storage, Bluetooth calls, more sports modes and better OS and longer battery life.
It’s your call.