Withings ScanWatch 2
One of the best health-focused hybrid smartwatches available, the ScanWatch 2 offers users the opportunity to discreetly track key metrics. It provides round-the-clock tracking including FDA-approved ECG monitoring. Compared to its predecessor, it refines the user experience with a useful temperature sensor and other minor upgrades. For anyone who wants to keep an eye on their heart, but doesn’t want a sporty smartwatch, the ScanWatch 2 is a welcome compromise.
- What is it? Withings’ follow-up to the health-focused ScanWatch, the ScanWatch 2 is a powerful hybrid smartwatch with an analog aesthetic and undercover smarts. The device tracks everything from activity to cardiovascular health, sleep, SpO2, and women’s health stats. Like its predecessor, the second generation watch also features on-demand ECG readings and atrial fibrillation detection and even adds temperature tracking. On the smartwatch front, it offers basic band-style notifications.
- What is the price? The Withings ScanWatch 2 is priced at $349.95.
- Where can you buy it? You can purchase the Withings ScanWatch 2 from Withings.com and third-party retailers like Target.
- How did we test it? I tested the Withings ScanWatch 2 for ten days. The review unit was supplied by Withings.
- Is it worth it? The Withings ScanWatch 2 adds key sensor and feature upgrades to an already successful hybrid smartwatch line, including a brand new temperature sensor. These tools are hidden within a classic, analog-looking wearable so the device can track helpful data inconspicuously. By continually monitoring vital health metrics, it offers powerful insight into users’ wellness, tracks basic activity, and monitors sleep. With limited display space wasting battery, it will also last up to 30 days between charges. Though pricey, it’s an impressive pick for anyone interested in advanced health monitoring with a traditional aesthetic.
Should you buy the Withings ScanWatch 2?
It’s the nature of my job to always be sporting one, if not two, overtly techy wearables, typically with colorful, AMOLED displays and gym rat aesthetics. This is fantastic for someone who keeps up with modern gadgetry, works out regularly, and can probably do a handful of pull-ups (spoiler, I cannot), but what about anyone looking to venture out of the house without broadcasting they religiously track steps? The Withings ScanWatch 2 is just the device. Its elegant, analog design suggests a cocktail bar more than a curl bar, yet it quietly tracks a handful of advanced health stats and activity data like any modern smartwatch.
The ScanWatch 2 is a beautiful, luxury wearable with an analog aesthetic and hidden smarts.
Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
And then things start to get interesting. Like the original ScanWatch, the new generation features a small grayscale OLED display, the official “window” into the watch’s undercover features. With a turn of the digital crown, users can check their heart rate, temperature variation, steps, and distance, start a workout or breathwork session, take an ECG or SpO2 measurement, and access the device’s settings. Notably, there isn’t a screen for sleep tracking, which feels like a slight oversight as the ScanWatch 2 can actually track your sleep patterns. This display space is small, measuring just .63 inches, but I find it plenty useful for completing basic tasks and checking stats.
The device is also a detailed sleep tracker, measuring sleep stages, duration, interruptions, and regularity. I found these sleep stats comparable to my Oura Ring 3; however, occasionally, the watch overestimates my sleep, counting time in bed as time asleep. (Granted, I should have been sleeping rather than reading until all hours of the night.) Unlike the original model, the 2’s PPG sensor now measures your respiratory rate.
Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
The Withings ScanWatch 2 also packs a new temperature sensor for measuring fluctuations daily and overnight, as well as during workouts. The TempTech24/7 module monitors skin and ambient temperatures to distinguish potential symptoms from environmental conditions. I didn’t receive any elevated temperatures during my testing, but theoretically, the tool could be useful for determining oncoming illness. Temperature sensing is a growing trend in the wearables market, and such trackers can now be found on most of the top devices. Adding this capability is an important upgrade for the company to make to keep up with the competition.
The new generation ScanWatch adds 24-hour temperature monitoring and on-device cycle tracking.
Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
And yet, as mentioned at the start, this is a health-monitoring hybrid device, not a dedicated fitness tracker. Though I found the ScanWatch 2 extremely comfortable for all-day wear and sleep tracking, it isn’t meant for fitness buffs. It doesn’t pack some crucial tools for athletes, namely built-in GPS. At this point in a review, I would typically include a mapped outdoor workout to show the accuracy of a wearable’s GPS, but in this case, the data collected simply relies on your paired phone, not the watch itself.
I don’t love pocketing a phone on long runs, so the lack of built-in GPS is disappointing at this price point. However, the decision directs my attention back to the device’s intended audience. With over 50 sports modes and useful activity analysis, the ScanWatch 2 is certainly a reliable activity tracker for those interested in the basics, but it’s not a sports watch for serious athletes.
The ScanWatch 2 is lacking in both smart features and tools for athletes, including built-in GPS.
The biggest strength of the ScanWatch 2 is its phenomenal up-to-30-day battery life.
Withings ScanWatch 2
Premium, classy design • Up to 30-day battery life • Broad health tracking tools
Health-first, elegantly simple hybrid smartwatch
he ScanWatch 2 is a powerful hybrid smartwatch with an analog aesthetic and undercover smarts. The device tracks everything from activity to cardiovascular health, sleep, SpO2, and women’s health stats. Like its predecessor, the second generation watch also features on-demand ECG readings and atrial fibrillation detection and even adds temperature tracking. On the smartwatch front, it offers basic band-style notifications.
What are the best Withings ScanWatch 2 alternatives?
The ScanWatch 2 is an attractive buy, but it’s not the only device worth considering. Check out these alternatives for more options.
- Withings ScanWatch Light (€249.95 at Withings): If you’re interested in the ScanWatch 2’s overall package but don’t need all the device’s advanced sensors, the ScanWatch Lite is a fantastic pared down option for budget-conscious shoppers. Just be aware that you won’t find temperature tracking, ECG readings, or SpO2 monitoring on board.
- Withings ScanWatch Nova (£549.95 at Withings): At the other end of the spectrum, the pricey ScanWatch Nova packs everything you’d find on the ScanWatch 2 into an even more premium build inspired by luxury dive watches.
- Garmin Vivomove Sport ($179 at Amazon): One of Garmin’s top hybrid watches, the Vivomove Sport features useful training tools and an attractive aesthetic. We love the sleek “hidden” display that disappears when not in use.
- Apple Watch Series 9 ($392.67 at Amazon): Of course, no hybrid options can compete with a dedicated smartwatch when it comes to integration, apps, and display. The best smartwatch for iPhone users is Apple’s latest Series 9, which packs considerable health and fitness tracking tools. Unfortunately, the device only offers 24 hours of battery life between charges and isn’t compatible with Android devices at all.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic ($429 at Amazon): From the Wear OS family, the best full-out smartwatch is the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic. It integrates with Android phones to offer the full gamut of tools and features and packs a rotating bezel for smooth device navigation. However, like the Apple Watch, it can’t compete with a hybrid device in terms of battery life.
Withings ScanWatch 2 Specs
Withings ScanWatch 2 | |
---|---|
Display |
0.63-inch OLED |
Dimensions and weight |
38 or 42mm case
18 or 20mm band 38mm case: 34.6g without band |
Build materials |
Stainless steel case and crown |
Battery |
Up to 30 days in smartwatch mode |
IP rating |
5ATM |
Sensors |
TempTech24/7 Module |
Connectivity |
Bluetooth LE |
Compatibility |
Android 9 and higher
iOS 15 and higher |
Withings ScanWatch 2 review: FAQ
Discover more from TechPros: Innovate, Learn & Connect
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.