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Wahoo Trackr Heart Rate Monitor review: Professional HR tracking accuracy with chest strap comfort
11:00 am | October 2, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Fitness Trackers Gadgets Health & Fitness | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Wahoo Trackr: One minute review

The Wahoo Trackr heart rate monitor chest strap comes from a company known for working with Team GB athletes. As such this is a professional-grade bit of kit which now offers a rechargeable battery, making it more accessible for everyone than the last generation Tickr.

From running and cycling to fitness classes, athletics - and beyond - the Trackr makes for a super accurate way to get the most clear heart rate data. Since most metrics on smartwatches are now extrapolations from heart rate data, it pays to have the most accurate start point and this is what the Trackr is all about.

Sadly, it does lack the oxygen sensing capabilities of the more modern wrist-worn smartwatches, so data like SpO2 is lacking. For this, you'll need a separate bit of kit in the form of a muscle oxygen sensor.

The Wahoo Trackr is compatible with the company's own Wahoo app suite and plenty of popular third-party fitness apps including Cardio Mapper, Endomondo, and Runtastic. It also works with both ANT+ and up to three Bluetooth connections at once making it highly compatible in terms of hardware.

When it comes to battery life, this model goes for a solid 100 hours on a charge. This model is rechargeable (unlike the other Wahoo heart rate monitors before it) and the supplied USB 3.0 cable packs an LED to show charge status at a glance.

In terms of water use, it's not for swimming with just an IPX7 rating. That's not the best and means it's rated for a depth of one meter for 30 minutes, so it's not designed as a swim tracker and doesn't have onboard memory to make that a feature.

Overall this is one of the most convenient and compatible heart rate monitors that's also comfortable and super accurate - making it clear why this is used by professional athletes.

Wahoo Trackr: Price and release date

  • Available to buy now in the US, UK, and Australia
  • Priced at $89.99 / £79.99 / AU$149.95 RRP

The Wahoo Trackr launched on June 25 and is available across the globe. It launched with a price of $89.99 in the US, £79.99 in the UK and $149.95 in Australia.

The Trackr is a more affordable option than the other top-end options from the competition in the likes of Garmin and Polar. You can buy the Trackr directly from Wahoo or on sites like Amazon.

Wahoo Trackr

Wahoo Trackr (Image credit: Future)

Wahoo Trackr: Design

  • Comfortable to wear
  • Small strap length
  • Simple design

The Wahoo Trackr unit itself is pretty standard in terms of shape and size, although it is definitely one of the lighter options at 39g including the strap. As such it feels like it's barely there and you won't need to worry about it moving around due to its minimal weight.

The Trackr comes in one size with a strap that extends between 68cm and 91cm (27 inches to 36 inches) which sounds like plenty when you consider Wahoo says this works for up to 50-inch chest sizes. The reality felt quite different though as it was a snug fit even on a 42-inch chest.

Wahoo Trackr

Wahoo Trackr (Image credit: Future)

The straps feature skin-sensitive materials that work to detect your heart rate, without the need to wet them or do anything before getting started. There is a clasp system to attach the strap around your chest which is very easy to use and allows for quick adjusting as needed to find the right fit.

The fact that this model features LED lights for status and charging feedback is a really useful addition. As is that magnetic charging port, which makes it very easy to attach to the cable and get charged up.

The unit is IPX7 rated for water making it splash and sweatproof. Technically it's capable of withstanding being submerged in water at one meter depth for up to half an hour, but since it doesn't store data this won't work for swimming unless perhaps you have your phone poolside – although I didn't test that as the device isn't sold as a swim tracker.

Crucially, the Trackr is comfortable, if a little snug, and you won't notice it once you get going. That's the key, isn't it? So unless you specifically want this for water-based tracking there is very little to complain about.

  • Design rating: 4/5

Wahoo Trackr

Wahoo Trackr (Image credit: Future)

Wahoo Trackr: App and features

  • App is simple but effective
  • No swim tracking
  • Lots of third-party app compatibility

The Wahoo Trackr comes with its own app which offers some useful tracking metrics, with some helpful heart rate-specific screens. Of course, you can do this with your training app of choice, so it might seem a little redundant. But for anyone new to this who wants to use the dedicated Wahoo app then it makes sense to have that available.

As mentioned, the Trackr requires an app to work, but it will also pair with a smartwatch. So it's possible to go out without a smartphone and still track all data associated with GPS while getting the chest strap level of accuracy. Usefully, the watch can then store that data so you have it uploaded on your apps of choice when you get back to a connection.

The readouts on the Wahoo app are decent with nice big display data and the ability to pull in more from other hardware. So you could use this with a power monitor, for example, and that will also be displayed in the Wahoo apps. In the case of cycling that can be great for a connected bike and various data monitors all working at once. This is where that ability to use ANT+ and three Bluetooth connections at once comes in handy.

Wahoo Trackr

Wahoo Trackr (Image credit: Future)

The LED lights are helpful when charging to get your status, but are even more helpful when connecting to see what the device is doing – as well as getting a battery level update. That said, it connects quickly and easily and is always pairing-ready when you clip in and strap on, so the lights are more for to indicate isn't going as planned. I didn't have that issue as this connected first time with many devices.

Features are few, to be honest, but that's not a bad thing. This is a very smart and accurate heart rate monitor that doesn't try to reach beyond its core task, but rather focuses on doing that to the best possible ability – and in my testing across running, cycling, and HITT, it achieved this.

  • Features & app rating: 3.5/5

Wahoo Trackr

Wahoo Trackr (Image credit: Future)

Wahoo Trackr: Performance

  • Super accurate
  • Easy to setup and use
  • Wide connectivity

Thanks to this HRM's electrocardiography (ECG) heart-rate sensor, you can expect a 99.6% accuracy as standard. While wrist-worn light-based monitors are better than ever, they're still reliant on less accurate input – making all the data extrapolated from that, using algorithms, less accurate too. In that way, this is a very powerful heart rate monitor that's superb for anyone that wants a greater level of accuracy.

All that said, when out running with the Garmin Forerunner 965 and the Trackr connected to an iPhone 15 Pro Max, the compared data was very similar. As heart rate changed, on a hill climb, for example, the chest strap stayed with me accurately and the watch took a little longer to adapt. As the run went on and averages were more detailed that became less varied between the two – but the watch did still have some lag behind the Trackr.

When glancing in a race situation or training hard where you can only spare less than a second to use the energy to crane your neck and move your wrist, the chest strap reliability and responsiveness were really welcome.

Wahoo Trackr

Wahoo Trackr (Image credit: Future)

The results were not quite so similar when it came to faster runs – the chest strap really stood out as better here. On doing a fast 5K race with both of these units on, it was clear that the optical Garmin sensor was not as good. It had my heart rate never topping zone three, even though I was all-out and set a PB. The chest strap, on the other hand, was far more accurate, detecting zone four at the back end of the race and my zone five kick-up at the finish. Perhaps this is due to arm movement while going at speed, and sweating, but whatever the reason this put the chest strap into a league of its own.

So, if you're looking to accurately track high-speed, sweaty running, or HIIT classes, then a chest strap is a must and this model makes it easy to set up, monitor, and use with whatever app or device you want. I now run with the Garmin as my display but use the Trackr as the HRM, disabling the optical sensor on the watch in favor of the chest strap's accuracy.

Wahoo Trackr

Wahoo Trackr (Image credit: Future)

Wahoo Trackr: Buy it if...

You're serious about heart rate training
A chest strap detects changes to your heart rate more quickly than a watch, which makes it a more accurate tool if you're training by heart rate zones.

You hate having to charge your fitness tracker
The Wahoo Trackr’s battery is rechargeable meaning you get a decent 100 hours of use and can then quickly charge back up, rather than faffing about with battery replacements.

Wahoo Trackr: Don’t buy it if…

You like to see your data presented to you in real-time
The Wahoo Trackr must be paired with a device to view the read-out. A phone can be awkward to view while running so you'll need a watch too. Although for cycling, with a mount, that doesn't apply.

You want ultimate ease
If accuracy isn't so important then a wrist-based sensor may be enough for you, with no need to put on the chest strap before you go out to exercise.

Also consider

Garmin HRM-Pro (£119 / US$129.99 / AU$159.00)

Designed for multi-sport use, the HRM-Pro is the most advanced heart rate strap Garmin produces. It’s also one of the most expensive options available. With the ability to connect to multiple devices via Bluetooth and ANT+, capture insights into your running form, and store workout data to its internal memory, the Garmin HRM-Pro has everything you need from a heart rate monitor strap. Although it’s probably of greater interest to those who already own Garmin products.

Read our full MyZone Garmin HRM-Pro review

MyZone MZ-Switch (£139.50 / $159.95 / AU$209.99.)

The MyZone MZ-Switch isn’t just a chest strap. The center sensor node features an ECG monitor as well as an optical sensor and pops out so it can be worn on the wrist like a smartwatch, your arm or even your swimming goggles, giving you the best of both worlds. And, when used in chest strap mode, the MZ-Switch’s accuracy compares with that of the Garmin HRM-Pro. A great alternative if you want to mix it up a bit.

Read our full MyZone MZ-Switch review

Suunto Race S review: a worthy competitor to rival Garmin
2:22 pm | October 1, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Health & Fitness Smartwatches | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Suunto Race S review: One-minute review

The Suunto Race S is a cracking smartwatch that is a credible alternative to any of the dedicated running watches that Garmin produces. With tracking capabilities like on-board GPS and heart rate monitoring, the smartwatch provides all that is needed for accurate measurements.

The AMOLED display looks great thanks to its high-definition resolution. Navigation using the touchscreen is easy and natural, although the device is a little bit let down by the underperforming crown button. Overall build quality is very good, though, with robust components that will stand the test of time. The watch itself is most definitely on the larger side so it won't suit everyone but if you have a wrist that can accommodate it, then it'll certainly look the part.

In addition to its features for athletes, the Race S also offers smartwatch functionality like notifications and music control. It has a long battery life, which can last around 10 days in smartwatch mode and up to 30-35 hours in training mode.

While the Suunto Race S offers a great set of features for athletes, it lacks some of the features found in other smartwatches. If you're more into performance tracking, then the Race S is up there with the best.

Suunto Race S review: Specifications

Suunto Race S review: Price and availability

Suunto Race S

(Image credit: Future)

The Suunto Race S 45mm model costs $349 / £325 / AU$599. There are an abundance of strap options, including Black, Powder Grey, and Powder Pink. For the test, I have the gorgeous orange strap, which has a graduated color from orange to purple. All strap options cost the same. 

The watch is available in the US, UK, and AUS. If you'd like the slightly larger 49mm model, then that goes by the name 'Suunto Race' and attracts a slightly higher price, especially if you opt for the titanium strap. It is not only larger but also has a longer battery life.

Suunto Race S review: Design

  • Great-looking watch
  • Abundant strap options
  • Solid build quality

The Suunto Race S is a great-looking watch, especially with the Powder Orange strap that I tested. With seven different strap colors available, there are no shortage of ways to customise the watch. We'll come back to the strap in a minute but let's focus first on the watch itself.

The first thing I was struck by was how chunky this watch is. The 45mm diameter provides a fantastic display size with enough real-estate to display all your vital metrics. Unfortunately, the thickness of the watch is nearly 12mm, which makes the whole thing sit very proudly indeed. The overall dimensions make it very similar to the Garmin Forerunner 265, which is similarly bulky. At this size, and with a weight of 60g, this is a watch for thick wrists that can accommodate it; otherwise, it'll just look plain odd.

The stainless steel case looks great with the simple color palette, causing the watch display to take centre stage. It houses an AMOLED display with a 466 x 466 pixel resolution. As a result, all of the on-screen graphics look super sharp with no sign of any pixelation. Unfortunately, Suunto has left a tiny gap between the glass and the case that catches dirt, and because it's so thin is difficult to remove.

The build quality of both the watch and the strap are second to none. I used it while performing various types of exercise, including contact sports, and never managed to damage it. In fact, I was never concerned about doing so, such was the quality of the components.

Suunto Race S

(Image credit: Future)

The three buttons are all located to the right-hand side of the watch and are small enough to not rub against your hand. The top button launches you into activity mode by taking you straight to a list of exercise types, while the bottom button takes you back to a menu.

Between the two standard buttons is a crown, which is very similar to what is now seen on other smartwatches, including the Apple Watch. A crown-style button is great to have but I don't think Suunto has nailed the engineering of it. I found it tricky to rotate predictably and, because it sits lower than the watch face, it's actually quite difficult to use with one finger. I actually ended up ditching it in favour of swiping.

As with all smartwatches, the sensor is on the back. It's a little prouder than I would have liked, but it does enable a range of tracking types as well as training functionality.

The strap not only looks great but is extremely comfortable. Most importantly, it wipes clean, an essential for athletes who sweat a lot. The catch is unique in its design but it provides the necessary security to keep the watch safely on your wrist.

All in, I've really enjoyed wearing the watch. It's comfortable, makes a statement, and functions incredibly well. At this price, the design competes with even the best that Garmin has produced. If they can improve the crown and the overall thickness, then this would be the running watch to beat.

  • Design score: 4/5

Suunto Race S review: features

Suunto Race S

(Image credit: Future)
  • Numerous features designed for runners
  • Extensive tracking capabilities
  • Lacks some key smartwatch features

Suunto Race S boasts a range of training features and support for all types of exercise including heart rate zones, power zones, and pace alerts. 

If you love to be prepared ahead of time, then you can plan your route before you even leave the house. It shows you where you're located and gives you updates on what you're about to encounter. In that regard, you'll always feel prepared. You'll have no worries about getting lost thanks to support for all types of sections.

Features include heart rate sensing, an altimeter, and a gyroscope. These accurately track your movements and provide feedback on how you're getting on. Whatever exercise you're doing, the watch can capture your data accurately every time. I had no problems with any GPS signal dropouts, even when sweaty or wet. In general, I was very impressed with the speed of readouts and the accuracy of them.

Sleep tracking monitors your sleep quality while also feeding back if your sleep patterns might be affecting your performance. Personally, I wasn't overly keen on using the watch as a sleep tracker, as it was just uncomfortably big to wear at nightime. 

Suunto Race S

(Image credit: Future)

The watch has a wide range of features, with a particular focus on athletes and those keen on staying fit. It also offers features that will appeal to those who just want it to integrate with their smartphone. For example, you can control music playback from the watch, helping you stay focused on your exercise.

Additionally, the watch receives notifications for calls and messages, so you don't have to keep checking your phone. For the price, I would have liked functionality to allow for replying to text messages but, then again, this is primarily a running watch. The watch is compatible with both Android and Apple phones, although I only tested it with an iPhone.

In conclusion, the Suunto Race S is a smartwatch that is focused primarily on athletes. All of the tracking abilities provide the necessary data for mid-exercise updates and post-exercise reports.

  • Features score: 4/5

Suunto Race S review: performance

Suunto Race S

(Image credit: Future)
  • Fast and responsive
  • Accurate GPS
  • Amazing battery life

The Suunto Race S is a strong all-round performer, especially for athletes like runners, swimmers, and cyclists. Getting the watch set up took no time at all, with charging to full taking no more than one hour. Downloading the Suunto app and pairing the watch was equally straight-forward. I was up and running, pardon the pun, in no time at all.

Then it was time to get exercising. The first thing I did was jump on my bicycle to test the GPS and tracking functionality. Once I was outside, the watch picked up GPS quickly and easily. I had initially tried to launch it while inside but it failed to connect, a common problem with all GPS enabled devices.

Once on my bike, the Suunto Race S coped admirably, tracking my route perfectly along with accurate distances and measurements. All of the data is displayed on the large 45mm display but there are also additional screens that provide further more in-depth information.

The Suunto app provides even more data for you to drill down into how you are performing. The app is really well designed with a good layout that is easily navigated. I especially love the maps of routes travelled and graphs providing health data. It also provides some reporting so you can improve on your performances each time.

I've already discussed the sketchy performance of the crown button in the design section but in general, interaction with the watch was very positive. The touchscreen responsiveness is good and I had little problem moving around the menus. The swipe gesture was able to handle moving up and down long lists without any fuss. The responsiveness was even fine while sweating or when I had just gotten out of the swimming pool.

The battery life delivers great performance too. Having worn the watch for a couple of months, I was able to test it for long periods with both light use and heavy use. Just using the device as a watch and a few other features, including checking messages, I was able to get about two or even three weeks out of the battery.

Tracking exercise with GPS enabled had an expected effect on battery life. When I used it for daily cycling commutes, playing football, and running, I found that the battery would last around five to seven days. The battery life was so impressive that each time I actually had to think about where I had left the charger because it had been so long.

  • Performance score: 4/5

Should I buy the Suunto Race S?

Buy it if...

You want an affordable running watch
The watch had a good range of features and great build quality, and it's not as expensive as many of the Garmin alternatives.

You want a high resolution screen
The 466 x 466px AMOLED display looks fantastic, with all text and graphics as sharp as you need. It's also bright enough to use in the midday sun.

You want unbelievable battery life
With light use, this watch will last around two to three weeks. Even with heavy use, you'll still get several days' life out of it.

Don't buy it if...

You want a slender-looking watch
The Suunto Race S may be the smaller version but it's at 45mm diameter and nearly 12mm deep, you'll need a wrist that's thick enough to warrant it.

Suunto Race S review: also consider

Apple Watch Series 9
The Apple Watch Series 9 is the best smartwatch for most iPhone users. It offers a Double-Tap gesture, all-day battery life, and excellent health features. Read our full Apple Watch Series 9 review.

Garmin Fenix 7
Garmin's other premiere outdoors and fitness watch, the Fenix 7 was the top ultra-marathon watch around until the Enduro 2 tore its crown off its head. Still worth a look if you can find it at discount. Read our full Garmin Fenix 7 review

Suunto Race S review: how I tested

I've been proudly wearing the Suunto Race S for two months and have tried to put it through as many types of exercise as I can, including running, playing football, swimming, and table tennis. It's incredible how many different types of activities it supports, so I thought it only right to try as many as I could! 

To test it's waterproof rating, I took it while swimming and managed to get it down around 3 m. It's nowhere near the advertised 50 m but I figured my test would be sufficient for most users.

I also paired it with the Suunto app to get a fuller picture of what the watch is capable of. The pairing process was simple and straightforward, and I loved the app.

Garmin Lily 2 review: A sleek, easy way to keep your health and fitness goals on track
7:13 pm | September 25, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Health & Fitness | Tags: | Comments: Off

Garmin Lily 2: One-minute review

I’ve tested a lot of smartwatches, but this is the one I’ve had the most compliments on, with its slim design and bright color it got a lot of attention. I loved that I could wear it on a night out – as it doesn’t look chunky or too sporty. Easy to attach to my wrist, I barely noticed I was wearing it – but its watch face lets its design down – and we’d love to see some more color in the next version. The touchscreen was also a little tricky to get used to and sometimes didn’t react to our touch. 

With 18 different workout profiles, you can record everything from running to cycling and several forms of dance. However, it lacked sports such as tennis and football, so we didn’t get accurate recordings of these. The GPS watch also shows basic stats such as heart rate and steps taken, while more comprehensive stats can be viewed in the app. The Lily 2 also has features such as timers, alerts, and Fall Detection. 

Testing the watch over a month, I loved the running stats and the GPS ability, but the touchscreen wasn’t always easy to use, and I found it frustrating when it was either oversensitive to touch, or just didn’t react – an irritating factor when you are trying to record your fitness on the move. Sleep score and Body Battery via the app were great add-ons, but I’d love to see my detailed statistics on-watch in future versions.

Garmin Lily 2: Specifications

Garmin Lily 2: Price and availability

Garmin Lily 2

(Image credit: Garmin)
  • Starts at $249.99 / £249.99 / AU$429
  • Released earlier this year
  • More expensive than the Fitbit Sense

The Garmin Lily 2 was released in January 2024 and is available now from the Garmin website, costing  $299.99 / £249.99, with Australia prices TBC. Similarly priced to other Garmin watches, in the same category,  it’s more expensive than the Fitbit Sense, which comes in at around £30 cheaper.

  • Value score: 4/5

Garmin Lily 2: Design

Garmin Lily 2

(Image credit: Future)
  • Super lightweight 
  • Hidden display 
  • Touchscreen 

Surely this is one of the lightest Garmin watches ever? Weighing just 20.6g, our version, which has a circular aluminum face, also came with a light purple silicone strap. Five other colors are available, including two with a leather wristband and a further two with a fabric band. Designed to look like a lifestyle women’s watch I felt like I could keep it on all day –as it looked great with my whole wardrobe, not just my activewear.

Easy to attach to my wrist, made with quick-release bands, you can buy extra wristbands to mix and match with colors. With a 240 x 201px screen, like its predecessor, the watch face is designed and made using Corning Gorilla Glass 3 and set with aluminum, while the watch face has a touchscreen.

The hidden display took a little longer to get used to. I’m an Apple Watch user normally and love having the watch face and other stats to hand straight away. The hidden display meant I either had to move my wrist quite vigorously to ‘wake it up’ or press the button on the bottom center of the display, which like the touchscreen, was sometimes frustratingly hard to work. 

The black and purple watch face has a crisscross wallpaper design, plus eight different designs to choose from, including traditional clock settings and digital displays: we chose one that showed both our heart rate and steps taken. With future versions of the Garmin Lily watch, we’d love to see more color in the watch face. 

  •  Design score: 4/5 

Garmin Lily 2: Features

Garmin Lily 2

(Image credit: Future)
  • 18 exercise settings 
  • Sleep score and body battery
  • Fall detection 

If you’re looking to track your daily exercise there are now 18 workout profiles you can track, including HIIT, running, and cycling. You can also add more or take some forms of exercise off if you don’t use them – which will save you scrolling. Garmin’s always been excellent for modularity, and the Lily 2 is no different. Good news if you’re a dancer too, as it will track many types of dances including hip-hop and Zumba. Unfortunately, there is no ability to add exercises such as tennis or even indoor cycling, meaning you probably won’t get accurate readings for those. Perhaps these will be added in a future update.

The main menu also gives you the option to set alarms and even timers for particular exercises. While under the settings tab, you can also set alerts, such as how many steps you’ve completed that day and reminders to stand up. If you don’t want these on, which I decided after a couple of alerts I didn’t, you can change your alert notification settings on the app.

To find the dashboard you simply swipe down, which gives you access to features including ‘do not disturb’, sleep mode, and even your music.  I also love the feature, which wasn’t on the original Lily, which can detect an accident while you're out running or exercising. Simply add your emergency contact information into the app and it will alert them if you have a fall.

The watch can also track your sleep, giving you a sleep score each morning and a timeline of your sleep. This sleep score and your activity will then calculate your body battery – which both show up on the app every morning. The watch records all your data on the Garmin Connect app – I found this app quite hard to navigate, especially when I was originally looking for my exercise statistics.

  •  Features score: 5/5 

Garmin Lily 2: Performance

Garmin Lily 2

(Image credit: Future)
  • 5-day battery 
  • Detailed stats for running
  • Clunky touchscreen

I found the watch easy to set up and connect to your phone. For more detailed statistics, after your workout, you can link your watch to the Garmin Connect app. Easy to charge, via a magnet clip, which plugs into a USB port, it took me around an hour to fully charge it. The battery lasts five days, so unlike my Apple watch, I didn’t have to worry about a constantly drained battery – and sometimes it lasted even longer than five days. 

I tested the watch over a month, wearing it for running, gym classes, and while I worked out on my Peloton. To start recording an exercise you simply select your activity from the list – the Lily 2 performed well when I wore it while running, although calories burned were slightly off (when compared against my Apple Watch) and unlike some watches, it didn’t detect intervals when I was running on a track. The breakdown of my performance on the app was helpful – giving me an overview, and stats such as pace, average speed, and max heart rate. The charts section also gave me an idea of my cadence and how long I stayed in heart rate zones.

I thought some of the exercise choices were a little redundant - for instance, the stair stepper and the rower could come under the umbrella of cardio, so I took these off. I would have liked to have replaced these exercises with sports such as tennis or squash, but this wasn’t an available option. I picked either ‘cardio’ or ‘other’ to track these activities, meaning my stats weren’t accurate. The cycling selection also didn’t include indoor cycling, which is unusual, especially as indoor cycling has become more popular.

The first time I tried the sleep tracking, I forgot to put the Lily 2 on SLEEP MODE: I didn’t make the same mistake twice. It did show in my sleep tracking, however, a big 2 am wide awake gap - which, although it meant I got a rude awakening, I could identify that Garmin’s sleep tracking proved to be accurate that night. Every cloud has a silver lining. I’ve used many devices for sleep tracking, including the Oura Ring Generation 3 and the Whoop 4.0 [links], and although it gave you a sleep score, it wasn’t detailed enough for me. I love analyzing my stats and have been known to become a little obsessed, so the Lily 2 didn’t go far enough for this. The addition of Garmin’s  Body Battery feature is also clever, but again I’d love to see more detailed statistics in future versions of the Garmin Lily. 

  •  Performance score: 3.5/5 

Garmin Lily 2: Scorecard

Garmin Lily 2: Should I buy?

Garmin Lily 2 full range of watches on white background

(Image credit: Garmin)

Buy it if...

 You want a fashionable smartwatch 

Lightweight and attractive this watch will not just match your activewear but your daytime wardrobe too. 

 You’re a runner or cyclist 

I found it accurate for running and HIIT classes, but there weren’t many options for sports tracking.  

 You want a long battery life 

The Lily 2 battery lasts for five days, sometimes a week, so you won’t have to worry about charging it frequently. 

Don't buy it if...

 You want detailed sleep analysis

This will give you some insight into your sleep, it’s just not that extensive.  

You want a user-friendly touchscreen

I found the touchscreen over-sensitive at times, and at other points too sensitive, I felt like I couldn’t win. 

You love to track your sports

Sorry tennis or football players, you can’t track these sports on the Lily 2. 

Also consider...

Fitbit Sense 

A smartwatch with a similar price point, it looks good on the wrist while also tracking your fitness stats. 

Read our full review

Apple Watch Series 10

Whether it’s the latest Apple Watch 10 or its predecessor you’ll get spot-on tracking for sleep and fitness - while also getting all your notifications straight to your watch.  

Read our full review

How I tested

I tested the watch over a month, tracking all my fitness, including daily walking, cardio classes at the gym, and long runs. I also tracked it while I slept and also compared it to my Apple Watch to see how it stood up to its competitors. 

First reviewed: September 2024

Garmin Fenix 8 review: Rugged, expensive perfection
1:17 pm | September 24, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Health & Fitness | Tags: , , | Comments: Off

Garmin Fenix 8: One-minute review

The Garmin Fenix 8 was perhaps the most anticipated watch from Garmin in a very long time, and the reveal didn’t disappoint. The Garmin Fenix 7 series has been consistently rated among the best Garmin watches ever, and the Garmin Fenix 8 is packing most of Garmin’s best hardware features that were introduced in the years since the Fenix 7 was released. 

Features like an AMOLED display, a microphone and speaker for calls, and an LED torch for attracting attention or running safely at night (and, er, for seeing in the dark) have been folded into the Fenix 8. 

It now has new waterproofing and an Apple Watch Ultra-style dive watch capability, cribbed from the Garmin Descent series. The watch can act as a working dive computer for scuba activities down to 40 meters, although in our exclusive chat with Garmin product lead Jon Hosler he revealed that the watch can actually go beyond that depth. 

New, improved GPS means new software features: with a “dynamic routing” ability automatically generates back-to-start directions during running and cycling workouts, and if you’re running on a pre-prescribed route your Fenix 8 will intelligently compensate if you stray from the path. Purchasers get to choose between three different sizes, with an additional choice of a solar-powered memory-in-pixel display (a duller, more power-efficient smartwatch screen) or a brighter, more smartwatch-y AMOLED one.

Unsurprisingly, it’s a fantastic watch. It’s built like a tank without being too obnoxious, although it doesn’t deviate much from older Garmins (in fact, it looks almost the same as my Garmin Epix Pro at first glance). You know what you’re getting, and if you like Garmin’s existing stable of adventure watches, this is the best one yet. 

However, that performance excellence comes with an eye-watering price tag, which is almost too much in comparison to its contemporaries. Almost, but not quite: I considered knocking off half a star, but this may well be the best-performing Garmin watch I’ve ever tried 

Garmin Fenix 8: Specifications

Garmin Fenix 8: Price and availability

Garmin Fenix 8 AMOLED watch on wrist

(Image credit: Future / Matt Evans)
  • Starts at $799.99 / £689.99 / AU$1,349 for cheaper 47mm Fenix E
  • Prices for 43mm Fenix 8 start at $999 / £949 / AU$1,699
  • Reaches up to $1,199 / £1,119 / $2,199

The Garmin Fenix 8 starts at $799.99 / £689.99 / AU$1,349 for the cheapest model, a 47mm model christened the Garmin Fenix E. The Fenix E is a version of the AMOLED display Fenix 8 with no solar charging option, 16 days of battery life, no torch, no advanced leak-proof buttons for dive watch activities (although it’ll still stand up to water exposure, with 10ATM waterproofing) and a stainless steel case, with no titanium option. In essence, it’s an AMOLED Fenix 7. 

The full-price Fenix 8 starts at $999 / £949 / AU$1,699 for the 43mm AMOLED watch, which is a significant jump from the E, rising to the considerable sum of $1,199 / £1,119 / $2,199 for the 51mm solar-powered version. What you get for this is a big increase in battery life of up to 28 days, the advanced waterproofing leak-proof buttons, dive watch functionality, the torch, a more advanced heart rate sensor, and the option of an AMOLED screen or a memory-in-pixel, solar-charging screen. 

The full-price Fenix 8 is incredibly expensive. Its performance is phenomenal, and the engineering behind it is equal to many an analog timepiece; but such a price is very hard to justify for all but the wealthiest sportspeople. 

  • Value score: 4/5

Garmin Fenix 8: Design

Garmin Fenix 8 AMOLED watch on wrist

(Image credit: Future / Matt Evans)
  • AMOLED or MIP screen
  • New leak-proofing
  • Sapphire glass/titanium options

Structurally, the Garmin Fenix 8 looks almost identical to the Fenix and Epix watches that came before it. The Epix line was a version of the Fenix with that gorgeous, smartwatch-like AMOLED screen, but Epix doesn’t exist anymore – Garmin has axed the name and folded it in with the main Fenix line. The Fenix 8 inherits that AMOLED screen as an option, while the memory-in-pixel (MIP) screen is Garmin’s traditional duller, battery-efficient screen with Power Glass solar technology, which extends the watch’s battery life if you spend around three hours or more outdoors. 

The screen is made of Corning Gorilla Glass as standard, but an upgrade to the harder category of Sapphire glass is available. Likewise, the Fenix 8’s case is a mix of tough polymer and stainless steel, but you can upgrade the metal components to titanium for an additional cost. These upgrades are on top of the already-steep price, but the base model should be more than sufficient for all but the most adventurous outdoorspeople. The thick, wipe-clean silicone Garmin band will be familiar to most, but it can be swapped with a trail-specific fabric loop like the Enduro.

Garmin’s standard combination of a five-button setup – Up, Down and Options buttons on one side, and a Start/Stop and a Back button on the other – and touchscreens work well as they have always done, while a new raised section on the right-hand side makes it look a little like an Apple Watch Ultra in practice. 

Garmin’s widget-based screen layout is fast and intuitive to use. It’s easy to navigate through the watch’s options and add new apps, such as Spotify for offline music playback without a phone. You can add widgets through your phone’s Wi-Fi connection, making it easy to customize at home before you step out the door. 

Garmin Connect, the watch’s companion app, is stellar, and as comprehensive as ever. It’s very granular, showing you lots of data points and workout-creation options – almost too granular for beginners. Then again, beginners are unlikely to be spending this much on a sports watch, and it’s all well-organized. There’s not much that’s new to speak about, but it remains best-in-class. 

  •  Design score: 5/5 

Garmin Fenix 8: Features

Garmin Fenix 8 AMOLED watch on wrist

(Image credit: Future / Matt Evans)
  • New GPS functionalities
  • Dive mode
  • LED torch

Let’s start off with the new stuff. Dynamic routing offers a small quality-of-life improvement to GPS-tracked running, walking or cycling workouts, as you now have the option to enable Back to Start before you even head out the door. Simply set a distance goal for your run, then enable Back to Start and the Fenix 8 will generate an out-and-back route once you’ve hit around 40% of your distance goal. There’s no need to follow a pre-prescribed route until then, which is great. Dynamic routing also allows you to deviate from a route you’ve already created, rerouting you automatically while keeping your target goal in mind. Very handy. 

I’ve not had the opportunity to test the new Dive Mode yet, unfortunately: after this review has been published I’ll be handing the device off to a writer who’s also a recreational diver for a more thorough breakdown of that particular mode. But like Garmin’s Descent series, you get a fully-functioning dive computer with gauge, nitrox, air and apnoea modes for recreational scuba diving and free-diving activities. It’s enough for casual adventure enthusiasts who may scuba or snorkel once or twice a year, and who spend the rest of their time running, cycling, or swimming. 

The LED torch is the same torch as on the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro and Epix Pro models, and works just as well. I’ve already used it to find my way twice in the dark at full power (admittedly, only to the bathroom) and I stick the red mode on at night to alert cars that I’m jogging on the sidewalk in the dark. It’s surprisingly powerful, creating a moving spotlight of red that illuminates the ground in front of me as I run. 

Otherwise, a lot of the new advancements – such as more accurate GPS, topographical maps, the new heart rate monitor which promises to be more accurate, improved battery life, and leakproof buttons to enable all the dive stuff – is under the hood. At its heart, the Garmin Fenix 8 is an iterative update of an older, already-fantastic watch, and the smartwatch category as a whole hasn’t moved on very far since then, which means the Garmin Fenix 8 is still best in show. 

Heart rate alerts, sleep tracking, nap tracking, stress tracking, respiration tracking and other holistic tools sit alongside Training Readiness, Endurance and Hill scores to make this an incredibly comprehensive health and fitness watch. Garmin Messenger allows you to directly communicate between devices using Garmin’s satellite network. There’s a smorgasbord of available widgets and functionalities which you can use to customize your watch, from shortcuts to services like Garmin Coach to a Tides widget for open-water swimmers and surfers. You can download music, sync to Strava, and receive (but not make) calls on-wrist. It’s practically perfect, with every performance tool you’ll ever need.

  •  Features score: 5/5 

Garmin Fenix 8: Performance

Garmin Fenix 8 AMOLED watch on wrist

(Image credit: Future / Matt Evans)
  • Accurate GPS
  • Long battery life
  • Advanced heart rate sensor

As I’m an existing Garmin user, the watch was easy to set up and use with my pre-existing Garmin account, syncing to Strava and Spotify immediately. We won’t labor the point here: the watch is good, and it works. Tested against an Apple Watch Ultra 2, it recorded a very similar performance and distance while on a 5K, and I found the differences in heart rate readings to be minimal, allowing for variations in algorithms and a different wrist. You can read more about how the Apple Watch Ultra fares against premium Garmins in my account of wearing the Watch Ultra and the Garmin Epix Pro during a marathon.

The Fenix 8’s display was bright enough for me to see clearly, and after a full charge, I almost drained it completely after 13 days of regular GPS workouts: a combination of running, strength training, and stand-up paddleboarding (and yes, there’s a specialist GPS-based profile for that, which even counts the strokes you make as you glide across the water). 

I have yet to test its new cycling features, but I did test dynamic routing during a running workout, deliberately going off-piste (to borrow a skiing term) to check out its capabilities, and it performed fine. I departed from the route I had created with Garmin Connect, and it successfully rerouted me by the closest available detour within about two minutes. I also popped in my distance requirements and enabled the out-and-back routing on a 5K run, and it successfully kicked in just after the 40% mark. 

Otherwise, the Fenix 8 tracked my sleep with good accuracy, successfully logging periods when I woke up during the night, and delivering a Training Readiness score during the day which tracked well with my previous few days’ energy levels, from an anecdotal perspective. The torch was nice and bright (as is the lovely screen), and I haven’t even scratched the surface in terms of all the features available to me during a training block.  

  •  Performance score: 5/5 

Garmin Fenix 8: Scorecard

Garmin Fenix 8 watch on wrist of tattooed male

(Image credit: Garmin)

Garmin Fenix 8: Should I buy?

Garmin Fenix 8 AMOLED watch on wrist

(Image credit: Future / Matt Evans)

Buy it if...

You love the outdoors

Garmin Fenix 8 has all the survival tools you’ll ever need, from GPS to a barometer and compass.

You’re a triathlete

Runners, cyclists, and swimmers will really get the most out of this watch.

You’re multidisciplined

Paddleboarding? Golf? Surfing? Skiing? Detailed, comprehensive and unique workout profiles exist for them all.

Don't buy it if...

You’re on a budget

Even the cheaper Fenix E is not a watch for users without deep pockets. 

Also consider...

Apple Watch Ultra 2

Nowhere near the same battery life, but perhaps the best alternative from a smartwatch standpoint. 

Read our full review

Coros Pace 3 

Our best value running watch, a cheap-and-cheerful adventurer's companion.

Read our full review

How I tested

I wore the Garmin Fenix 8 for three weeks, draining the battery down, sleeping with the watch, and testing it over several different kinds of workouts including running, strength training and stand-up paddleboarding. I compared it to an Apple Watch Ultra 2 (my litmus test for GPS and HR accuracy) during a 5K run, and spent time with the watch examining the settings and functionalities, both on-device and in Garmin Connect. 

First reviewed: September 2024

Sennheiser Momentum Sport review; High quality at a higher price
2:00 pm | September 14, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Health & Fitness | Tags: | Comments: Off

Sennheiser Momentum Sport: Two minute review

The Sennheiser Momentum Sport true wireless earbuds follow in the footsteps of Sennheiser’s popular Momentum range (the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 are the most recent) but with added features specially for fitness. The result is a pair of buds that are perfect for sports, with a stable fit, durable build, health sensors, great sound and ANC, and a huge range of features. But they’re not perfect; some might find the features overwhelming, and even if you’re looking for the ultimate sporty pair of buds, there might be better options for you. 

Sennheiser is known for its exceptional audio quality, and the Momentum Sport earbuds uphold this reputation. They support high-resolution streaming and are equipped with 10mm drivers, compared to the 7mm drivers found in the brand’s other models. This enhancement allows the earbuds to deliver more power and deeper bass. The sound quality is especially impressive when the Bass Boost profile is activated in the Sennheiser app, making them ideal for sports earbuds where dynamic sound is essential.

Listening to Megan’s Piano by Megan Thee Stallion at the gym, the piano is bright and punchy, while the bass is bouncing and booming. Similarly, Queens of the Stone Age’s Burn the Witch sounds powerful and fun across the range, though cranking up the volume sometimes results in muddied lower frequencies. Overall, the Sennheiser Momentum Sport buds deliver a bold, fun, and engaging sound. The accompanying app offers plenty of customization options, allowing users to adjust EQ settings, select presets, and create their own custom profiles.

Despite the enjoyable listening experience, the audio quality doesn’t quite meet the high standards typically associated with high-end Sennheiser earbuds. While there’s clarity and power, there’s a noticeable lack of richness and detail. The sound is good but not class-leading, which is somewhat disappointing given the price point. When compared to my usual go-to earbuds, the Nothing Ear 2, the Sennheiser Momentum Sport only offers a slight improvement. Now, this is fine because we rate Nothing’s buds. But considering the price, you’d expect a seriously upgraded experience. 

I was impressed by the adaptive noise-cancelling (ANC) capabilities of the Sennheiser Momentum Sport. It effectively reduces most background noises, including conversations and transport sounds. However, it’s not the best ANC I’ve tested and doesn’t surpass some of the top contenders in our best noise-cancelling earbuds list. That said, I personally prefer the ANC here for workouts, as it offers solid noise cancellation while still allowing very loud sounds to come through if necessary. 

Sennheiser Momentum Sport earbuds on grey table background

(Image credit: Future / Becca Caddy)

For instance, while testing these earbuds on a train to the airport, I couldn’t hear the conversations of the people sitting opposite me, and most sounds from the moving train were silenced. However, a loud alarm at one of the stations was still audible, which I find important for safety reasons. Others may prefer a more immersive noise-cancelling experience, but for me, this balance was ideal.

The app allows for extensive customization of the ANC settings, including an anti-wind mode that disables the external mics. This feature was particularly useful for calls and voice notes, ensuring they were clear and free from background noise. There’s also a transparency mode that lets you control the level of ambient sound, which can be activated specifically for calls.

Beyond ANC, the app offers several ways to tailor your listening experience. A fit test helps optimize audio and ANC performance, and the Sound Zones feature allows you to apply different sound settings for different environments, such as work or the gym. While these customization options are great for those who enjoy tweaking their settings, they might feel overwhelming for users who prefer a straightforward experience.

As you’d expect from fitness-focused earbuds, the stability of the Sennheiser Momentum Sport is excellent. If the fit isn’t perfect initially, there are various customization options to help you achieve the right fit. Each earbud has a small silicone band around its main casing, which can be removed and replaced with bands featuring ear fins of different sizes. These ear fins fit under your ear cartilage, providing additional stability. There are three ear fin options and three different silicone eartips to choose from.

I spent considerable time adjusting these different options to find the perfect fit. Although the process was a bit tedious, I was very satisfied with the results once I’d found the ideal combination for my ears. The earbuds remained secure during workouts, walking, and running, providing a reliable fit that I haven’t experienced with other earbuds in a long time.

The secure and stable fit is especially important for those with smaller ears, as the earbuds are a bit large and bulky due to all of the additional onboard technology. Weighing 6.4g each, they’re not particularly heavy but feel different from lighter, mid-range earbuds. After several hours of continuous wear, they did start to feel a bit uncomfortable. However, this took some time, and I was pleasantly surprised that I didn’t feel discomfort sooner. While this amount of time is more than enough for a workout, it might not be ideal for all-day wear.

The design of the Sennheiser Momentum Sport earbuds is typical for the brand, featuring a simple aesthetic with minimal branding and clean lines. While some people might find this design a bit plain, it fits well in all sorts of settings and, personally, I appreciate the unobtrusive look. The earbuds are IP55-rated, making them suitable for sweaty workouts, though some other fitness earbuds offer better waterproofing.

One of the standout features of these earbuds is the inclusion of optical health sensors. The earbuds feature heart rate and body temperature tracking, made possible through a partnership with Polar. While other earbuds, like the Bose SoundSport Pulse and Amazfit Powerbuds Pro, have included optical heart rate monitors, the temperature tracking is a new addition. Temperature sensors are relatively new even in the best smartwatches and fitness tech. 

Sennheiser Momentum Sport earbuds on grey table background

(Image credit: Future / Becca Caddy)

You can quickly check the health readings in the Sennheiser app, but for more detailed information, the Polar Flow app or compatible Polar watches provide better context. The earbuds can also connect to other devices, such as smartwatches or fitness tech, via Bluetooth. Although I didn’t test the earbuds against a chest strap heart rate monitor – considered the gold standard – I compared the heart rate readings to my Apple Watch and the temperature readings to my Ultrahuman Ring Air, both indicating a high level of accuracy from the buds.

Beyond sound and ANC settings, the Sennheiser app is packed with features and customization options, delivering the high-end experience you’d expect. Users can customize gestures and touch controls on the earbuds, although there is no single-tap option and the touch controls can be overly sensitive at times. For example, a thick strand of hair once tangled around the buds and inadvertently activated the controls. Additionally, the app offers a Battery ECO mode to deactivate high-quality streaming and save battery, and a Smart Pause feature that pauses music when you remove an earbud.

The Sennheiser Momentum Sport earbuds come with one of the nicest charging cases I’ve tested. It features a quality build that feels far from plasticky , with a square design and a rubber magnetic lid that closes quietly and satisfyingly. . The earbuds themselves offer six hours of battery life, extending to 24 hours with the fully charged case. This isn’t great battery life, but is standard for high-end sound and lots of features. The charging case is IP54-rated, providing some protection against sprays and dust, though it offers less waterproofing than the earbuds.

My biggest issue with these buds is figuring out who they’re for. If you’re on a budget, they’re expensive. There’s a lot going on with these earbuds, and I worry that some people just don’t need all of these bells and whistles. It might make more sense to get affordable or mid-range earbuds and pair them with one of the best cheap fitness trackers. While I enjoyed experimenting with the health sensor technology, I wonder if anyone willing to spend this much on earbuds and take fitness seriously wouldn’t already have a tracker capable of collecting heart rate data.

That said, there are scenarios where these earbuds might be a good fit. Perhaps you had a capable fitness tracker that broke, or you’ve had it for years and want to replace it. Or maybe you’re a fan of Polar’s ecosystem. There are certainly valid use cases here. If you appreciate the idea of health sensors and would utilize the other features, especially if you’re a fan of Sennheiser’s high-end products, then these earbuds are worth considering. However, for most users, there are better options available at a lower price point.

Sennheiser Momentum Sport: Price and availability

Sennheiser Momentum Sport earbuds on grey table background

(Image credit: Future / Becca Caddy)
  •  Priced at $329.95/£279.99/AU$529.95 
  •  Available from Spring 2024 

The Sennheiser Momentum Sport cost $329.95/£279.99/AU$529.95. Although the buds are currently discounted on the Sennheiser website in some regions. At the time of writing, the price in the UK has dropped from £279.99 to £218.49. 

This price makes the Sennheiser Momentum Sport expensive as far as true wireless earbuds are concerned. More expensive than some of our top favorite true wireless picks, like the Nothing Ear (a) at $99 / £99 / around AU$192 and our top buds for working out, the Beats Fit Pro at $199 / £199 / AU$299. They’re even a little more expensive than the Apple AirPods Pro 2 at $249 / £229 / AU$399.

However, the Technics EAH-AZ80 that are currently at the top of our best true wireless earbuds guide are similarly priced at $299/£259/AU$499. As are some of the best noise-canceling buds in the world, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds at $299 / £299 / AU$449. 

So the price might be high-end, but it isn’t unheard of or out of this world for a quality pair of buds. It still means you should only consider them if you want them for fitness and you love the sound of health sensors and loads of customization options. Anyone else won’t make the most of everything on offer and could find a much cheaper alternative.

Sennheiser Momentum Sport: Specifications

Sennheiser Momentum Sport: Scorecard

Sennheiser Momentum Sport: Should I buy?

Buy it if...

You want loads of customization options

You can tweak the sound, set up different sound profiles and sound zones, change the tips and wings to get the best fit and more. If you like to feel in control, these are the buds for you.  

You want buds built for workouts

Everything about these buds is built with fitness in mind, from the super stable fit to the durable build to the added optical health sensors. 

You want ultimate stability

Not ideal for very small ears, but otherwise you can achieve a fantastic fit. It’ll take some faffing, but then there’s no budging. So it’s worth it. 

Don't buy it if...

You already have a great fitness tracker

There’s a lot to love about these buds beyond their health sensors, but if you already have that covered, there are better, more affordable options. 

You want the best sound and ANC

I rate the sound and ANC of these buds, but it’s not the best, and if that’s a priority, you’ll want to look at what rivals have to offer. 

You want to save money 

There are more savvy ways to get health tracking, good sound and a solid fit with other buds and fitness trackers. 

Also consider

Beats Fit Pro

Cheaper than the Sennheiser buds also with solid sound and ANC. They have a smaller build and a similar battery life.

Beats Fit Pro review

JBL Endurance Peak 3

An affordable alternative. Sound and ANC aren’t as strong, but you get a secure fit with an ear hook and better battery life.

JBL Endurance Peak 3 review

How I tested

I tested the Sennheiser Momentum Sport buds every day for a month. This gave me the chance to trial them in a range of different situations and environments.

I mostly used them to listen to music and podcasts on my iPhone 14 Pro with Apple Music, Spotify and YouTube music. I tested them when I was traveling abroad, walking around cities and along the beach and jogging in the countryside. I also took them to the gym when I was using the cardio machines and lifting weights. 

I’ve tested lots of different headphones and earbuds for more than 12 years now, especially fitness devices. I’m particularly interested in tech that prioritizes ease of use and comfort.

First reviewed: August 2024

TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition review: Pricey, but almost perfect
1:07 pm | September 11, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Health & Fitness Smartwatches | Comments: Off

TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition: Two-minute review

The TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition is a premium golf watch that also doubles as a superb smartwatch for daily use. It offers a seriously impressive package as a gold watch and smartwatch combo with many top-line golf features, a great design, display, and build quality, and excellently intuitive use.

Yes, it's pricey, but it absolutely earns its place among the best golf watches by offering a top-tier, premium option made by a brand that has some serious pedigree in the history of wristwatch making and the market more widely.

The Calibre E4 Golf Edition channels the TAG Heuer quality pedigree in its design and build and this is evident as soon as you open the box. It's a chic and sleek titanium watch with a matte black finish that oozes quality. The 'Golf Edition' engraved bezel is a beaut, and the two buttons and dial (or 'crown' as TAG Heuer calls it, reminiscent of the Apple Watch's digital crown) are easy to use and engage with while wearing a golf glove. All buttons are satisfying to use, and the dial is a joy on the golf course too.

The display is crisp and clear and has very punchy colors and contrasts. I use a screen protector personally, but the Sapphire crystal screen gives me great confidence if it were to get knocked or bashed.

When it comes to the golf features specifically, the TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition excels and is superb. There are more than 40,000 courses preloaded onto the TAG Heuer golf ecosystem, and my experience of getting any amendments or changes made via speaking to TAG has also been very good. Each course's hole is displayed cleanly, crisply, and clearly on the AMOLED display and makes for clear navigation, though some of the colors could be more distinct as the shades used for areas of trees and bunkers can look very similar at a glance. You can use the crown to navigate your way along each and every hole, and 10-yard lines help you to gauge distance quickly and between course locations or hazards.

Then there are the specialist features. The first is the watch's shot-tracking feature which is excellent and automatic and tracks all your shots from drives to putts. The watch and excellent companion TAG Golf app on your phone will be able to build your rounds as you go and allow you to review them afterward in 3D (on your phone, not on the watch). This is a brilliant feature, and as well as relying on the automatic tracking, you can also manually input them - as well as delete any duffers you don't want skewing the data too! This can help you build an invaluable bank of data to rely on when thinking about club choice and golf course management and strategy - especially at those courses or course 

Alongside this, the watch will also measure the distance you've hit shots which builds toward offering an accurate 'virtual caddie' base of information, which you can refer to to get a club suggestion at any yardage when going for the pin or any other location on the hole. Over time, this optimizes and provides distance averages that are reliable and accurate, and the investment you put into it over a period of time really pays off. I've consistently found the whole process with each round of 18 or 9 holes to be extremely satisfying too, from measuring shot data to making changes to my bag when incorporating new clubs, all the way to reviewing shots and scores afterward in the on-course pictures.

The whole experience of having a Calibre E4 Golf Edition for premium golf watch use is also apparently from the presentation and physical extras you get. The box is incredibly sleek, and you also get a sleeve of Tag Heuer-emblazoned Pro V1s inside as well as a replacement ball marker – one of which comes attached to your watch already, magnetized to the clasp.

TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition on a wooden table with its box behind it

(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar)

The TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition also makes a claim to be a premium contender for best smartwatch and best fitness tracker with its broader feature set, too. Running Google's WearOS 3, the watch is a joy to use and navigate for everyday tasks such as message and app notifications, media controls, and checking the weather and my calendar. 

However, I've particularly enjoyed the fitness tracking functionalities measuring steps, and calories, and promoting the WHO's Heart Points to help visualise getting up and about. I've mainly used this only for going for long dog walks and hikes but it'll have you covered for other workouts from running to cycling to swimming.

Battery life is robust all round too. In my months of testing and using the watch I've never been in trouble, always making it to my charger at the end of a day with juice in the tank. For example, with a round of 18 with the full shot tracking on and using it as a smartwatch from dawn till dusk, the Calibre E4 Golf Edition will easily last a full day. Using it as a smartwatch only, I've got two full days of usage out of it. The bespoke charging dock also juices up the watch incredibly quickly which can rapidly get you out of a pinch and is a welcome feature.

As far as downsides go, there are, in 2024, a few of the very latest and very greatest golf features not on the Calibre E4 Golf Edition. For example, more recent entries into the golf watch space, like the Garmin Approach S70, offer excellent and specific features such as green contour mapping to assist putting, and 'plays like' tech that will take into account weather conditions to give you even more precise yardages for shots which might give those watches an advantage on the features front if you're looking for every bell and whistle. 

The value-for-money proposition of the Calibre E4 Golf Edition has also perhaps taken a slight hit in 2024 due to the aforementioned competitors.

If you want a premium watch that offers the best of both golfwatch and smartwatch worlds, then the TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition is still hard to beat as a premium golf watch option.

TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition: Specifications

TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition on a wooden table with its box behind it

(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar)

TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition: Scorecard

TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition: Should I buy?

Buy if it...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider

How I tested the TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition

I have been using the 45mm variant of the TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition as my golf watch for eight months now, using it most weeks on the course. It's also been my day-to-day smartwatch for the past six months or so, replacing a Samsung Galaxy Watch 3.

I have committed months to using the Calibre E4 Golf Edition using it for multiple rounds and tracking 100s of shots. I have used it on a few courses and also adapted it, and the app on my Samsung Galaxy S22, to changes in my bag. 

When I first got the TAG Heuer I was able to do some basic side-by-side testing with my previous golf watch, the Garmin Approach S40.

First reviewed July 2024

Apple Watch Series 10 review – this makes me want to ditch the Ultra
8:00 am | September 10, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Health & Fitness Smartwatches | Tags: | Comments: Off

Hands-on Apple Watch Series 10 review: Two-minute preview

Apple Watch Series 10 family.

(Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol)

Going into Apple’s September 9, 2024, “It’s Glowtime.” event, I wouldn’t have blamed you for potentially dismissing the rumored Apple Watch Series 10. I heard it would get a larger display, a new health feature, and a thinner build. On paper, that doesn’t do much, but I’ll admit I underestimated it.

Maybe, I should have checked the calendar as today (Sept. 9) marks the tenth anniversary of the Apple Watch, and while the Series 10 casts a familiar look, it’s all in the details.

Ten generations in, it’s clear Apple’s sticking with this rounded square design, and they’re working on perfecting it – or, as my colleague Lance Ulanoff put it, Apple’s well-polishing the Apple.

To sum it up, the Series 10 does indeed resemble the Series 9, but it’s way thinner – Apple shaved off a whole 1-millimeter, which is a lot for something on your wrist – and packed in a way larger display. In fact, the 46-millimeter display is even bigger than the Apple Watch Ultra 2, and while that sounds like a behemoth, it’s not. The smartwatch didn’t feel massive at all on my wrist and looked rather elegant, especially in the Jet Black aluminum finish, which brings me so much joy as someone who waited for hours to get an iPhone 7 Plus in that same shade.

Apple Watch Series 10 vs Apple Watch Series 9

(Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol)

The screen here is the star, though, and it’s not just bigger for sheer numbers' sake. In Calculator, you can more easily hit buttons, and when viewing photos, you can pick out more details. Better yet, when reading text in an email or a news article, the screen's large enough to fit an additional line of text.

That’s super functional, but the display is also more visible, so you can make out what is on the display for off-axis viewing, even at extreme angles. Think of this as the second half of what Apple was aiming to do with the Series 7 that curved down the edges.

To accomplish the Apple Watch Series 10 has a “Wide Angle OLED” display with an LTPO-3 panel underneath. In practice, it’s a wicked bright (up to 2,000 nits) screen that offers crisp, vibrant details and can get down to a super low 1Hz refresh rate. Watch and timepiece: fans will appreciate just how good the ticking secondhands look on various watch faces.

You’d likely expect this from an Apple Watch, but the screen on the Series 10, seemingly a pretty simple upgrade, steals the show here and makes a much bigger impact or impression after you see it in real life. The 44-millimeter to 46-millimeter doesn’t sound massive, but it makes me want to ditch my Apple Watch Ultra. Of course, if you don't want the larger Apple Watch, you still get the thinner build and more expansive display with the smaller, 42-millimeter Series 10.

Apple Watch Series 10

(Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol)

Second, while Apple is still promising the same 18 hours of battery life, they offer an enhancement in the charging realm. I’d call this battery adjacent, as it can let you stretch the life of the Series 10 with a simple charge. It still ships with the fast-charging USB-C Apple Watch puck that’s been in the box since the Series 7, but thanks to a new coil on the Series 10 it can hit 80% in just 30 minutes. That should make a big impact, and you can still get 8-hours of use in just 8 minutes.

That alone might sway you to wear the Apple Watch Series 10 overnight for sleep tracking, but Apple’s also adding a new health feature. Sleep Apnea detection will arrive on Series 10 the Ultra 2, and Series 9 once the FDA clears it. Essentially, it’s using the accelerometer and a custom algorithm to detect if you potentially have it, and if it detects it, you’ll get an alert in the Apple Health app. It doesn’t need to measure blood oxygen or employ other sessions, and Apple’s only rolling out this feature after extensive testing to root its process in science.

Apple Watch Series 10, rear

(Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol)

These three stand out as the most impressive feats Apple pulled off for the Series 10, which debuted on the tenth anniversary of the Apple Watch. Inside, it’s powered by the S10 SIP, which performs similarly to the S9 (in the Series 9 and Ultra 2). Still, because the Series 10 is thinner, Apple had to engineer the inside, so it’s much flatter than the previous one.

Apple also redesigned the speaker, which is now larger and shaved off 1-millimeter of the Digital Crown on the inside. The red circle on the Digital Crown, which noted LTE connectivity, is gone, and the rear panel of the Apple Watch is now metal, matching the rest, which makes it seem like the Series 10 is one hull.

I had my skepticism going in, but I cannot wait to spend more time with the Apple Watch Series 10 and put it through its paces. Though, as I write this after a long, lengthy day at Apple Park, my mind keeps returning to the screen. It’s much more expansive, but it’s not overly large and doesn’t have an extensive bezel around the screen like the Ultra. It’s minimalist, classy, and still feels like an Apple Watch at its core. 

If you're already sold, the Apple Watch Series 10 is up for order now, starting at $399 / £TBC / AU$649 and will begin shipping on September 20, 2024.

@techradar

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Withings ScanWatch 2 review: Probably the best-looking hybrid smartwatch
6:13 pm | September 5, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Health & Fitness Smartwatches | Tags: | Comments: Off

Withings Scanwatch 2: One minute review

Want a smartwatch that doesn’t look like a smartwatch? You may want to check out the Withings ScanWatch 2, the best-looking hybrid watch we've reviewed yet.

It’s as close to looking like an analog watch as you’re likely to get, but with the smarts and tracking of a fitness tracker under the hood. In fact, if it wasn’t for the small display on the watch face, you’d never know.

That makes the ScanWatch 2 a truly gorgeous piece of kit, with a nice, shiny casing and no buttons outside of the crown. The duality of an analog watch design with a more modern set of ambitions does show itself, though: the display is too small for most fitness tracker basics like notifications, while there’s no option to install third-party apps a la watchOS or Wear OS. 

This makes the "smart" nature of Withings' best smartwatch a little redundant: it's a pure fitness tracker combined with an analog watch. Still, if that’s not a dealbreaker for you, there are few better-looking timepieces around.

Withings Scanwatch 2: Price and release date

  • Priced at $349 in the US 
  • £319 in the UK  
  • ‎AU$599 in Australia

The ScanWatch 2 debuted in September of 2023, and you can find it at plenty of retailers. The price of entry is fairly high, however, at $349 / £319 / ‎AU$599.00. 

This price point makes it comparable in price to an Apple Watch Series 9, despite offering less in terms of functionality. You're paying for the premium look and feel, rather than advanced functions and smart capabilities. 

  • Value score: 3.5/5

Withings Scanwatch 2: Specifications

Withings Scanwatch 2: Design

Withings ScanWatch 2 smartwatch

(Image credit: Future / Lloyd Coombes)
  • Beautiful analog design
  • Small digital display
  • Available in Black, Rose Gold, Blue or White

As I’ve alluded to, the reason you may want to pick up a ScanWatch 2, as opposed to something of a similar price, is that distinctive design, which comes in Black or White, as well as a Rose Gold option with a blue strap. It also comes in 38mm and 42mm sizes. All models are 5ATM water resistance rated.

Looking at it on the wrist, it’d be easy to assume it’s an analog watch, and in many ways it is. Hybrid smartwatches, analog watches with discreet smart elements, are gaining traction (alongside other discreet trackers like the best smart rings) because they often look much cooler than most other smartwatches.

However, look a smidge closer, though, and you’ll see a small display at the top of the watch face. This OLED panel is nice and easy to read in all conditions, but naturally comes a bit unstuck if one of the hands happens to be over it when you check. That said, there’s little chance of being sat there looking at it for hours when functionality is a little more stripped back. In fact, for the most part it’ll be showing you how many steps you’ve walked that day.

It also feels shallower than other smartwatches, perhaps because of its analog-like disguise, but it felt much flatter on the wrist than my Apple Watch Ultra.

Straps can be switched out with an elegant sliding pin, while it charges in a sort of mini-cradle that looks like the devices used to remove links from watch straps. It includes a USB-A to USB-C cable, but it’s pretty short. Overall? Looks fantastic, and wonderfully comfortable to wear. 

  • Design score: 5/5

Withings Scanwatch 2: Performance

Withings ScanWatch 2 smartwatch

(Image credit: Future / Lloyd Coombes)
  • Around one month of battery life
  • No GPS
  • Closer to a fitness tracker than a smartwatch

While it is a ‘smartwatch’ in terms of its size, the ScanWatch 2 is less of a smartwatch in terms of functionality and closer to a fitness tracker instead.

It can track your steps, activity, heart rate, and all of those standard fitness tracker features, but you shouldn’t expect to install additional apps or use your watch to pay for your shopping.

You can set timers and use it as a stopwatch, but anything beyond that you might want to go for a full-fat smartwatch.

Thankfully, as a health and fitness tracker it’s solid, although it lacks an internal GPS: you’ll need to connect to your phone. Sleep tracking is supported, and it also has a ECG (medical-grade!) for undertaking one of those wherever you are.

Workout modes are relatively basic but track fairly well so long as you’re connected to your phone’s GPS, but perhaps the ace up its sleeve is the temperature sensor.

This runs continuously, albeit at the cost of the 30-day battery life, but can showcase temperature variations that could be an indication of an oncoming illness. It’s primarily focused on just highlighting increases or decreases, though, so don’t expect to get an exact number for your temperature.

Of all the smartwatches I’ve tested, I feel like the ScanWatch 2 has the simplest pairing procedure. It’s not that it does anything different from its rivals, but it just worked almost instantly. It also offers a slick checklist of things you can tick off as it shows you, meaning you get a sort of tutorial when you first put it on.

Once that’s done, the app is split between Home, Measure, and Achieve. Home gives you some “missions” to check off, like setting a bedtime routine, or reading an article. It also tracks your daily activity to help you hit thirty minutes.

Measure shows your data, letting you drill down into activity and rhythms for any data you’ve collected, while Achieve lets you set Health Goals and work towards them. The app can write directly to Apple Health, and works alongside Strava and MyFitnessPal.

This is all backed up by a subscription service called Withings+ which offers a Health Improvement score that helps you improve your score week-on-week up to 100, while also giving you daily guidance and meal plans. It also unlocks additional data so you can interpret it more easily, but I didn’t see anything that felt super necessary.

  • Performance score: 4/5

Scorecard

Withings ScanWatch 2: Should I buy?

Withings ScanWatch 2 smartwatch

(Image credit: Future / Lloyd Coombes)

Buy it if...

You want a smartwatch that doesn’t look like one

The ScanWatch 2 is slick to look at, and will go with just about any outfit at any time.

You want to track plenty of metrics

The temperature sensor here is a big boon, especially given many rivals have been slow to adopt it.

You’re new to fitness tracking

Even without buying the watch, the app is fantastic in its ease of use and variety of options.

Don't buy it if...

You want more smart features

The Scanwatch 2 can tell you you have a notification, but you won’t be able to read it on your wrist.

You’re a Nike Run Club user

While it can tap into Strava, Nike Run Club users are left in the dust with no integration.

Also consider

Garmin Instinct Crossover

A hybrid watch with physical hands, but in a G-Shock style instead of a classic watch. 

Read our full review

First reviewed: July 2024

Mobvoi Home Walking Treadmill review: a good-quality, affordable under-desk solution
12:30 pm | August 18, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Health & Fitness | Comments: Off

Mobvoi Home Walking treadmill: One-minute review

Walking treadmills are often relatively cheap, easy to store behind a sofa or under a bed when not in use, and an excellent 'cozy cardio' solution, whether you’re looking to pair them with a standing desk or use them to get your steps in while watching TV. The Mobvoi Home Walking Treadmill is a no-frills, super-cheap solution that might be the best under-desk treadmill for users on a budget we’ve tested so far.

The Mobvoi Home Walking Treadmill is typically priced at $229 / £210/ AU$273, but it’s frequently on offer, even up to around half-price, from Mobvoi itself as well as retailers such as Amazon. For a few dollars more, you can get the Home Walking Treadmill Plus, which has an extra few inches of deck space, but no additional features. The Mobvoi Home Treadmill SE is another version of this treadmill with a fold-up bar that puts it into 'running mode' (i.e., it goes faster) so would be a more versatile machine if you’re looking to jog as well as walk – this model is actually slightly cheaper in the US at $220, but more expensive in the UK and Australia at £289.99 / around AU$335. However, on the basic home treadmill, you’re stuck at walking speeds only. 

It’s simple to set up – you just need to screw-in a couple of stabilizing feet – and it took around 10 minutes for me to unbox and assemble the treadmill. With a maximum user weight of 265lbs / 120kg, it’s sturdy despite its slender size, and I was impressed with the build quality during our tests. It doesn’t feel cheal; on the contrary, with its black glass display, it shares a design ethos with some of the best smart scales I’ve tried, and its 5 inches / 13cm depth means it's easy to slide under a bed or into a cupboard when not in use. 

The downside of the Mobvoi Home Walking Treadmill’s compact form factor is that it's quite narrow, so requires a little bit of getting used to at first. I found my foot catching the side on occasion until I’d spent a bit of time on the treadmill. The larger Plus version is two inches wider and one inch longer, so if you have the space I recommend getting that model. 

It offers very little in the way of features: it can connect to a WearOS smartwatch to display the same stats as you can already see on the treadmill’s screen, which I found rather pointless. More irritatingly, there’s no option to program a workout based on time and distance; ironically, you have to do all the legwork yourself. 

Still, as it’s so frequently on sale, I’d certainly recommend it for people looking for a simple, plug-in-and-go device for getting your steps in on the cheap. It’s slim, the remote control is easy and intuitive to use, and it’s perfect for wheeling out, pressing play and just walking, whether that’s for use with a standing desk, or to get your steps in while watching TV. Devices like this make fitness accessible, so you shouldn’t necessarily let the lack of programmable features hold you back from buying the Mobvoi. 

Mobvoi Home Walking Treadmill: Specifications

Mobvoi Home Walking Treadmill

(Image credit: Future / Jessica Downey)

Mobvoi Home Walking treadmill: Scorecard

Check out our video review of the Mobvoi Home Walking Treadmill below:

Mobvoi Home Walking Treadmill: Should I buy?

Buy it if...

You’re on a budget

This is the perfect under-desk treadmill for someone who just wants a cheap walking solution. 

You own a standing desk

Its compact form factor and a remote control that you can leave on the desk make this the ideal work-from-home companion. 

You just want to walk

Uninterested in a running treadmill? Then save yourself some money and pick up the Mobvoi.  

Don't buy it if...

You want to run

The Mobvoi Home Treadmill SE has a running mode, although no incline or programmed workouts. 

You want a big deck

Need space to walk in comfort? Maybe you have long legs? Try an alternative treadmill with a bigger deck, or order the Plus model.

Also consider

JTX Movelight

Another great under-desk treadmill for beginners, and it's easy to set up, but it's more expensive than the Mobvoi.

Read our full JTX Movelight review

Kingsmith Walkingpad C2

Its folding design makes this the best under-desk treadmill for storage, if not for performance. It's a fair bit pricier than the Mobvoi.

Read our full Kingsmith Walkingpad C2 review

How I tested

I spent hours walking on the Mobvoi Home Walking Treadmill in TechRadar's dedicated testing center, as well as unboxing, installing, and programming it. I tested its top speed, checked its programming functions, used the remote control, walked while watching TV, wheeled it around, and stored it both flat and upright. 

First reviewed: July 2024

Google Pixel Watch 3 review – a big redesign with a deeper focus on health
8:10 pm | August 13, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Health & Fitness Smartwatches | Tags: | Comments: Off

Google Pixel Watch 3: One minute review

The Google Pixel Watch has always been a sleek, modern – maybe even beautiful – smartwatch. It's stuck out from an incredibly crowded market with a build that looks like a polished pebble, simple controls, and a comfortable feel on the wrist. 

However, it’s only be available in one size for two generations, and has always been far from a full-on Fitbit replacement. That changes with the third-generation Pixel Watch, and after strapping both the 41mm and 45mm Pixel Watch 3 to my wrist, I can say that it’s a pretty big leap. 

That’s right: the Pixel Watch now comes in two sizes: there's still the 41mm model which was the only option with the Pixel Watch 1 and 2, and a much larger 45mm model, which has been dubbed the Pixel Watch 3 XL.

I’ve spent some hands-on time with both the 41mm and the 45mm watches, so I’m sharing my first impressions and briefly discussing the trove of new health and fitness features that are headed to your wrist.

Google Pixel Watch 3: Specifications

Google Pixel Watch 3: Price and Availability

Google Pixel Watch 3 side dial and button

(Image credit: Future/Lance Ulanoff)

With two sizes of the Pixel Watch 3, pricing is a bit more complex than in years past. Like the previous Pixel Watch 2, the 41mm Pixel Watch 3 with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi is priced at $349 / £349 / AU$579, while you’ll pay more at $449 / £449 / AU$749 for cellular connectivity. The 45mm Pixel Watch 3 will start at $399 / £399 / AU$669, and jump to $499 / £499 / AU$839 for the advanced connectivity.

Both sizes come in Matte Black or Polished Silver; the 41mm is also available in Champagne Gold, and the 45mm in Matte Hazel. Whichever size and model you go for you’ll also get six months of Fitbit Premium for free. All variants of the Pixel Watch 3 are up for preorder now, with a shipping and on-sale date September 10.

Watch our Google Pixel Watch 3 hands-on review on TikTok: 

@techradar

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A modern, sleek build now in two sizes

Google Pixel Watch 3, 41mm and 45mm

(Image credit: Future/Lance Ulanoff)

Like the Galaxy Watch 7 and the Apple Watch Series 9, Google is now letting you choose between two sizes. There’s a smaller 41mm Pixel Watch and a larger 45mm Pixel Watch, both with the same circular design and a dial on the right edge. It’s the classic Pixel Watch design, including the band mechanism on the box, which makes removing and replacing watch bands harder than it needs to be.

The Actua Display now stretches closer to the very edge, even on the smaller 41mm, so it can show you more. It’s also brighter, which makes reading text on a screen much easier – the same goes for hitting touch buttons like numbers on the calculator or buttons on a widget, for example to select a workout type to track. Both displays are LTPO AMOLED, which allows the display to refresh at a rate anywhere between 1Hz and 60Hz.

I think I still prefer the 41mm size, but Google didn’t just make a larger watch for the sake of it. The 45mm Pixel Watch 3 might have more super users or those who want to do more from their wrist, and it will be interesting to see how developers optimize for the extra screen real estate. 

Google Pixel Watch 3, 41mm and 45mm

(Image credit: Future/Lance Ulanoff)

Regardless of size, the Pixel Watch 3 is built from 100% recycled aluminum, and colors vary slightly based on size. The 41mm Pixel Watch 3 comes in Matte Black, Polished Silver, or Champagne Gold, while the 45mm will be available in Matte Hazel, Matte Black, or Polished Silver. 

The Pixel Watch 3 is powered by Qualcomm SW5100, which has a Cortex co-processor and 2GB of RAM. That’s a lot of jargon, but the main takeaway is that while the watch doesn't use Google's powerful Tensor processor, either size felt pretty snappy in my quick demo. You also get a clean version of WearOS 5 out of the box. 

In terms of health and fitness features, there is still a sensor stack on the back that looks sleek and powers all the expected features: daily activity and workout tracking, sleep tracking, Blood Oxygen or Sp02 tracking, heart rate, and the ability to take an electrocardiogram among others.

A few features are made possible through the integration with Fitbit. It seems that Google wants to compete with the run-tracking chops of a Garmin or a Galaxy Watch, so now (specifically for this workout type), you can create several routines with custom metrics you want to hit such as heart rate, pace, distances, and intervals. As you go through the workout, it will alert you if you’re ahead or behind on a metric. That’s pretty cool. After your run, your workout data goes through an AI to give specifics, including your vertical oscillation, cadence, and stride length. You can view this on your wrist or in the companion app on your Android phone.

Fitbit Premium members will also be able to compete against past workouts and the metrics you set, just like a Galaxy Watch. The watch will also consider this data when recommending your daily activities. All Pixel Watch buyers have this option for at least the first six months, and you can cancel the subscription before the free trial ends if you find yourself not using Premium features like this. 

Not just for Premium members, your Daily Readiness Score – delivered each day – will be more accurate as it takes more into account beyond just workouts and activity goals. It will now use sleep, heart rate (active and resting), and variability in all this to paint a better picture. Along with this score, you’ll get a daily recommended cardio load, which can help you decide what workouts to embark on or when to take it easier.

Google Pixel Watch 2 and Google Pixel watch 3

(Image credit: Future/Lance Ulanoff)

I’m eager to try Fitbit’s Morning Brief, which reminds me of the Oura Ring or Samsung Health. Essentially, you’ll get a notification with your most important activity metrics on your wrist. It just groups everything in one place, flags issues – maybe too little sleep or a change in heart rate – and tosses in topical information like the weather or an important meeting.

Of course, beyond health and activity from Fitbit, Google is also putting more work into its first-party applications. There will be a new interface with Nest devices, specifically letting you view a feed from your doorbell when it’s rung or if activity is detected on a connected camera.

Last but not least, there is always the question of battery life. With the 41mm or 45mm Pixel Watch 3, Google promises 24 hours of battery life with the always-on display enabled or up to 36 hours in extreme battery saver, which shuts off always-on but keeps other features like health tracking active. We’ll need to put this to the test and see how long it lasts, as well as a new bedtime detection mode that automatically shuts the always-on feature off. 

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