Withings ScanWatch 2 Review: Style Meets Substance
In a market saturated with smartwatches that prioritize flashy displays over classic design, the Withings ScanWatch stands out. Today, we’re reviewing the Withings ScanWatch 2 – Hybrid Smart Watch, a device that seamlessly blends the timeless elegance of an analog watch with advanced health and fitness tracking capabilities. Is it the perfect blend of form and function? Let’s dive in.
Detailed Review
The Withings ScanWatch 2 immediately impresses with its sophisticated design. The stainless steel case and sapphire glass exude quality and durability. It feels like a traditional watch, which is a refreshing change from the bulky, screen-heavy smartwatches that dominate the market. The hybrid design means you get real analog hands displaying the time, complemented by a small PMOLED display for health data and notifications. This display is clear and easy to read, although it’s not as vibrant as a full-color touchscreen.
One of the standout features of the ScanWatch 2 is its comprehensive health monitoring capabilities. The 30-second medical-grade ECG is a valuable tool for detecting atrial fibrillation (AFib), and the continuous heart rate tracking provides insights into your cardiovascular health. The high and low heart rate notifications are a welcome addition, alerting you to potential issues. Using the Withings ECG app is straightforward, and the data is presented in an easy-to-understand format.
Beyond heart health, the ScanWatch 2 excels at sleep tracking. It monitors sleep stages, breathing disturbances, and provides a sleep score, helping you understand the quality of your rest. The workout tracking is also robust, supporting over 40 sports with VO₂ max estimation and heart rate zone tracking. The Vitality Score, combined with a month of Withings+, provides personalized insights and recommendations to improve your overall well-being.
The claim of 35 days of battery life is a major selling point, and in our testing, it largely holds up. With moderate use (including daily workouts and sleep tracking), you can easily get over a month on a single charge. This is a significant advantage over many smartwatches that require daily or every-other-day charging.
The Withings app is intuitive and user-friendly, providing a wealth of data and insights. The integration with both Android and iOS is seamless, ensuring compatibility with most smartphones. The HealthSense OS, with its on-device machine learning, contributes to the accuracy of the health metrics.
However, the ScanWatch 2 isn’t without its limitations. The small PMOLED display can feel cramped at times, and navigating through menus can be a bit clunky. The lack of a built-in GPS means you’ll need to rely on your phone’s GPS for accurate distance tracking during outdoor activities. Also, the watch lacks features like NFC payments, which are present in some competing smartwatches.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Elegant and Timeless Design | Small PMOLED Display |
| Exceptional Battery Life (Up to 35 Days) | No Built-in GPS |
| Medical-Grade ECG and Continuous Heart Rate Tracking | Lacks NFC Payments |
| Comprehensive Sleep and Workout Tracking | Menu Navigation Can Be Clunky |
| Seamless Android and iOS Compatibility | Pricey compared to some fitness trackers |
Excellent Alternatives
If the Withings ScanWatch 2 isn’t quite right for you, here are a few excellent alternatives:
- Garmin Venu 3: A great choice for users who want a dedicated fitness smartwatch with a vibrant touchscreen display and advanced training features.
- Fitbit Sense 2: Excellent for comprehensive health tracking, including stress management, and integrates seamlessly with the Fitbit ecosystem.
- Fossil Gen 6 Hybrid: Another solid hybrid smartwatch option with a focus on style and essential smart features.
Final Verdict
The Withings ScanWatch 2 is a compelling option for those seeking a smartwatch that prioritizes both style and substance. Its elegant design, long battery life, and comprehensive health tracking features make it a standout device. While it has some limitations, such as the small display and lack of built-in GPS, its overall performance and user experience are excellent. If you value a classic watch aesthetic with advanced health monitoring, the ScanWatch 2 is definitely worth considering.
Our Rating
★★★★☆ 4/5
