Withings Scanwatch Review: A Versatile Smart Watch with Mixed Performance » Felix' Review

Withings Scanwatch Review: A Versatile Smart Watch with Mixed Performance


With a 30-day battery life, compatibility with both Android and Apple devices, and a sleek design, it promises to be a versatile and reliable companion for fitness enthusiasts and tech-savvy individuals alike.

Having owned the Withings Scanwatch for 15 months now, I have had a mixed experience with its performance. On the positive side, I appreciate its constant-on display, which allows me to easily check the time without having to press any buttons. The 24-day battery life is impressive, and the watch itself is comfortable to wear on the wrist.

However, there have been some drawbacks. One major issue I encountered was the pedometer function, which failed after a year of use. I compared its step count to a separate belt clip pedometer and found a significant discrepancy. Additionally, the sleep monitor function sometimes falsely registered me as being awake at odd hours, resulting in inaccurate sleep scores.

Electrocardiogram (ECG) Monitoring

Withings Scanwatch

 

The standout feature of the Withings Scanwatch is its ability to perform electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring. With just 30 seconds of measurement, the watch can detect atrial fibrillation or normal heart rhythm. This is a valuable tool for individuals who want to keep a close eye on their heart health. The ECG feature provides users with important information about their heart rhythm, allowing them to take proactive steps towards maintaining a healthy heart.

Withings Scanwatch: Sleep Tracking

Withings Scanwatch

 

Additionally, the Withings Scanwatch has sleep tracking capabilities. The watch delivers a sleep score based on light and deep sleep cycles, sleep duration, and wake-ups. By monitoring your sleep patterns, you can gain insights into the quality of your sleep and make adjustments to improve your overall sleep health. The sleep tracking feature also provides valuable data on how your sleep may be impacting your daily energy levels and overall well-being.

Heart Rate Tracking

Withings Scanwatch

 

In terms of heart rate tracking, the Withings Scanwatch excels during workouts and throughout the day. During workouts, the watch continuously tracks your heart rate, helping you optimize your training sessions. Additionally, it monitors your heart rate daily and overnight, providing valuable information on your overall heart health. By keeping track of your heart rate, you can identify any irregularities or patterns that may require further attention.

Withings Scanwatch: Wrist-Based Oximetry

Withings Scanwatch

 

On demand, you can easily check your oxygen saturation level (SpO2) with the Withings Scanwatch. Simply place your other hand over the watch’s top bezel and hold it there for 30 seconds. This feature is particularly useful for individuals who want to monitor their oxygen levels, such as those with respiratory conditions or athletes who want to optimize their performance. The wrist-based oximetry feature offers convenience and peace of mind, all at your fingertips.

Withings Scanwatch: Waterproof Design

Withings Scanwatch

 

Designed to be waterproof, the Withings Scanwatch is ideal for swimming enthusiasts. With water resistance up to 50m, you can confidently wear the watch while swimming without worrying about any damage. This feature sets the Scanwatch apart from other smartwatches on the market, as it allows you to seamlessly incorporate water-based activities into your fitness routine.

24/7 Activity Tracking

Providing dedicated workout metrics, fitness level estimation, connected GPS, elevation tracking, and step counting, the Withings Scanwatch is a comprehensive activity tracker. Whether you’re running, cycling, or engaging in any other physical activity, the watch has you covered. It also offers a fitness level estimation based on VO₂max, giving you a clear picture of your overall fitness progress. With its 24/7 activity tracking, the Scanwatch encourages an active and healthy lifestyle.

Pros:

  • The Withings Scanwatch has a long-lasting battery life of up to 30 days with normal use, making it convenient for those who don’t want to constantly charge their smartwatch.
  • The watch features an electrocardiogram (ECG) function that can detect atrial fibrillation or normal heart rhythm in just 30 seconds, providing valuable health insights.
  • With sleep tracking capabilities, the Scanwatch can provide a score based on light and deep sleep cycles, sleep duration, and wake-ups, allowing users to monitor and improve their sleep patterns.

Cons:

  • Some users have reported issues with the pedometer function, stating that it undercounts steps compared to other devices. This may be a drawback for those who rely heavily on accurate step tracking.
  • The watch’s display does not have a feature to black out at night, which can be distracting for some users when trying to sleep. It would be beneficial to have an option to set a go-dark period.
  • The Bluetooth range of the Scanwatch may not be as strong as previous watches, resulting in missed notifications or incomplete text displays. This can be inconvenient for those who rely on their smartwatch for seamless connectivity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Withings Scanwatch offers a range of useful features and a sleek design. While it has its strengths in terms of battery life and display, there are some areas that could use improvement, such as the accuracy of the pedometer and sleep tracking functions. Considering its relatively high price point, it may not offer the most comprehensive functionality compared to other smart watches on the market. However, if you value its durability and classic design, it may still be worth considering as a fitness and health companion.

Questions & Answers:

Question: Can the Withings Scanwatch measure blood oxygen levels?

Answer: Yes, the Scanwatch has a wrist-based oximetry function that can provide on-demand oxygen saturation levels (SpO2) in just 30 seconds.

Question: How often does the Scanwatch measure heart rate and SpO2 levels?

Answer: By default, the Scanwatch measures heart rate and SpO2 levels once every 30 minutes. However, there is an option to measure them continuously during workouts through the “workout” feature.

Question: How durable is the Scanwatch?

Answer: The Scanwatch is designed with durability in mind, featuring a combined heart rate and SpO2 sensor, 3 electrodes, an altimeter, a sapphire glass, and a PMOLED screen. Users have reported that the watch holds up well to daily wear and tear.

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