Withings ScanWatch 2 Review: A classicly styled timepiece, packed with every monitor you could want and seamless integration with Apple and Android Health apps.
{Tech} for Travel
Withings ScanWatch 2 Review
I was so eager to do a Withings ScanWatch 2 review after it was launched at IFA 2023. Whilst I live by my Apple Watch and am in the middle of a health kick, monitoring everything I can, almost all smartwatches on the market today fail in the same area.
Design!
Sometimes, having a small computer display on my wrist doesn’t match my outfit or occasion, yet I still want all those sensors and feedback. After all, I’ve Got to hit those 10,000 steps somehow.
The ScanWatch 2 addresses this in two ways: first, through its design and then through its seamless integration with the Apple Health and Google Fit apps.
Features Withings ScanWatch 2 Review
Withings ScanWatch 2 seamlessly combines classic analogue aesthetics with cutting-edge digital health monitoring. This hybrid smartwatch stands out with its impressive array of sensors and up to 30 days of battery life.
Building on the success of its predecessor, the ScanWatch 2 introduces new features like the TempTech24/7 module for accurate body temperature readings and a MultiWave PPG Sensor for precise heart monitoring.
The enhanced sensors and software provide comprehensive health tracking, including heart rate variability, sleep patterns, and menstrual cycle tracking.
Available in 38mm or 42mm sizes, four different dial colours, and even a Rose Gold case option, the ScanWatch 2 digital display discreetly integrates with the analogue face, ensuring you stay informed without sacrificing style.
The Watch Sense OS optimises battery use and user engagement, while the Withings App provides a seamless experience for tracking and managing health data.
Superior Health Tracking
Most smartwatches are designed to save you from taking your phone out of your pocket; they do a bit of everything. ScanWatch 2 is laser-focused on tracking your health.
As a 40-something with a good health record so far, using the ScanWatch 2 gave me a clearer insight into how my body responds during my day-to-day activities and after exercise.
Both the ECG and SpO2 oxygen readings can be performed manually by selecting the program on the digital crown and placing your other hand over the watch. Each takes around 30 seconds to perform and provides an instant result on the display.
The display is just 16mm, and its purpose is to guide you through the watch settings and options. The Withings App (Android | Apple) provides full feedback and health tracking. However, what I liked the most was that ScanWatch 2 updated the Withings app and my Apple Health app during the review.
If you want to improve your tracking, the optional Withings+ subscription service helps you build your Health Improvement Score, offers hints and tips, and provides workouts and news articles.
Day to Day Routine
Like many, I work from the office a few days a week and from home when I’m not travelling.
During the Withings ScanWatch 2 review, I continued this trend and quickly fell into a pattern thanks to its ability to update both its own app and Apple Health.
I could wear the ScanWatch 2 into the office, capture all my vitals, and walk around the city during my lunchtime. Once home, I could switch to my Apple Watch and hit the gym. But I did this for a reason.
Firstly, I realised that a full-sized digital smartwatch display was more accessible on a treadmill or cycle machine. Secondly, I pushed the digital crown with my hand during weight training.
Travel Weakness
Beyond the classic styling and more sensors than many will use, the ScanWatch 2 is missing some vitals.
With no support for Apple Pay or Google Wallet, ScanWatch 2 does not have a “Tap to Pay” feature, which is a big omission for many travellers and those who commute on large city transport systems.
Having to take my phone out every time I entered the London Underground during the review or paying for a coffee felt almost archaic.
Yet, this is the gateway to the main issue for those who have been using smartwatches for some time: a lack of wrist-based apps. Every so often, I fly complex itineraries and heavily rely on the Flighty app to keep me updated on my Apple Watch.
This is by no means a comparison review, as they are two devices with different purposes. While your Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch provide a broad range of features, the ScanWatch 2 fits perfectly into the Withings ecosystem of health devices. It is backed up by its own brilliantly designed app and shares its information with both Android and Apple OS.
In the perfect world, I would want both in my watch collection.
But if travel features are what makes you choose a smartwatch over an analogue timepiece, then Apple or Samsung is where you should look. However, if health monitoring is what you need, Withings has the solution!
Specifications Withings ScanWatch 2 Review
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | Grayscale OLED display |
| Battery Life | Up to 30 days |
| Sensors | MultiWave PPG Sensor TempTech24/7 module |
| Health Tracking | ECG SpO2 Sleep Tracking 24/7 Temperature Tracking Respiratory Rate Menstrual Cycle Tracking |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth Connected GPS via smartphone |
| Water Resistance | 5 ATM (up to 50 metres) |
| Materials | 316L Stainless Steel Case Sapphire Glass |
| Dimensions | 38mm and 42mm sizes |
| Colour Options | Silver Black Silver White Rose Gold Sand Rose Gold Blue |
| Weight | TBC |
| In the Box | ScanWatch 2 FKM Wristband Docking Station USB-C Cable Manuals |
| Website | withings.com |
Price Withings ScanWatch 2 Review
The ScanWatch 2 is available now at Withings.com starting from $400/£319 or at your local Amazon Store.