Withings ScanWatch 2: A Classy Upgrade with Added Features
Introduction
The Withings ScanWatch 2 is the highly anticipated follow-up to the original ScanWatch, and it brings several improvements and new features to the table. In this article, we will explore the design, functionality, and overall performance of this hybrid smartwatch.
A Timeless Classic Design
The ScanWatch 2 stands out with its refined and elegant design. It boasts a traditional watch face with physical hands and chiseled or beveled lugs. The addition of a single rotating crown, which also acts as a button to activate the OLED screen, adds a touch of convenience to its user-friendly design. The watch is built to last, featuring durable sapphire glass and stainless steel, and it is water-resistant up to 5ATM, allowing you to use it in various environments, including the shower and pool.
Impressive Functionality
Unlike most smartwatches on the market, the Withings ScanWatch 2 deviates from a large screen and focuses on discreetly tracking your activity, health, and sleep. Its OLED display, though small, remains sharp and legible, providing essential information such as time, date, heart rate, skin temperature, steps taken, and distance covered. The watch also offers additional features like workout tracking, ECG and SpO2 measurements, breathing exercises, and customizable settings.
Enhanced Features: Temperature Tracking and More
One of the standout features of the ScanWatch 2 is its ability to track temperature changes. The TempTech24/7 module monitors your baseline body temperature, alerting you to any fluctuations. This feature can be particularly useful in detecting early signs of illness or preventing heat-related issues in hotter climates. Furthermore, temperature tracking can potentially enhance the accuracy of sleep and activity monitoring.
A Comfortable and Versatile Wearable
The ScanWatch 2 comes in two size options: a larger 42-mm version and a smaller 38-mm model. The larger size offers a black face and a black fluoroelastomer wrist band, while the smaller size provides more variety, including dark blue or beige faces with a gold-tinted casing. The fluoroelastomer band ensures comfort during extended wear, and the lightweight nature of the watch makes it suitable for round-the-clock usage. It may take a couple of days to get used to wearing it overnight, but once adjusted, it becomes an effortless companion.
Notifications and Limitations
While the ScanWatch 2 does provide notifications from your smartphone, it does so in a ticker tape style. This means that reading longer messages can take some time on the relatively small OLED screen. Additionally, the watch does not support app downloads, payments, call functions, music controls, or other typical smartwatch features. However, it excels in its primary purpose, which is to monitor and track your health and fitness.
Verdict
The Withings ScanWatch 2 lives up to the reputation of its predecessor. With its classy design, extended battery life of up to a month, and comprehensive health and fitness tracking capabilities, it appeals to those seeking a blend of traditional aesthetics and modern functionality. The addition of temperature tracking further enhances its utility, despite the price hike that comes with it. If you prioritize health and style in a smartwatch, the ScanWatch 2 is certainly worth considering.