Withings ScanWatch 2 Review: Hybrid Smartwatch for Health

Are you tired of charging your smartwatch every single night? Do you want a watch that looks elegant enough for formal occasions but still tracks your health metrics? The Withings ScanWatch 2 might be exactly what you need. This hybrid smartwatch combines classic analog design with cutting-edge health monitoring features. You get the best of both worlds without compromise.

This watch stands out from typical smartwatches. It offers medical-grade health tracking with a 30-day battery life. You can wear it to business meetings, workouts, and sleep without worrying about constant charging. Many people struggle to find a smartwatch that looks professional and provides accurate health data. The ScanWatch 2 addresses this problem directly.

In this comprehensive review, we will explore every aspect of the Withings ScanWatch 2. You will learn about its features, performance, design, and whether it deserves your investment. We tested this watch extensively to give you honest insights. Let’s dive into what makes this health monitor special.

Key Takeaways

Long Battery Life: The ScanWatch 2 delivers up to 30 days of battery life on a single charge. You will not need to charge it every night like most smartwatches. This extended battery life makes it perfect for people who travel frequently or simply forget to charge devices regularly.

Medical-Grade Health Tracking: This watch includes FDA-cleared ECG monitoring and continuous heart rate tracking. You can detect irregular heart rhythms right from your wrist. The SpO2 sensor measures blood oxygen levels accurately. Body temperature tracking happens 24/7 without draining the battery quickly.

Hybrid Design Excellence: The watch combines analog hands with a digital OLED display. You get the sophisticated look of a traditional timepiece. The sapphire crystal glass provides excellent scratch resistance. The stainless steel case feels premium and durable on your wrist.

Comprehensive Sleep Analysis: Advanced sleep tracking monitors your sleep stages throughout the night. The watch tracks light sleep, deep sleep, and REM cycles. You receive detailed insights about your sleep quality each morning. Temperature-based cycle tracking helps women predict their menstrual cycles more accurately.

Water Resistant and Durable: With 5 ATM water resistance, you can swim and shower while wearing this watch. The rugged construction ensures it survives daily wear and tear. You will not worry about damaging it during workouts or outdoor activities.

What Is the Withings ScanWatch 2

The Withings ScanWatch 2 is a hybrid smartwatch that merges traditional watch aesthetics with modern health monitoring technology. You see analog hands on the watch face, which makes it look like a regular timepiece. However, beneath the surface lies sophisticated health tracking sensors.

This watch comes in two sizes: 38mm and 42mm. Both sizes suit different wrist sizes and preferences. The watch face features a small OLED display that shows your health data. This display appears below the 12 o’clock position. The grayscale screen provides clear information without draining battery life.

Withings designed this watch for health-conscious individuals who value style. You get medical-grade sensors that track multiple health metrics continuously. The watch syncs with the Withings Health Mate app on your smartphone. You can view all your health data in one organized dashboard.

The watch includes FDA-cleared features for ECG monitoring. This makes it suitable for people concerned about heart health. You can take on-demand ECG readings whenever you feel unusual symptoms. The watch also provides irregular rhythm notifications when it detects potential atrial fibrillation.

Design and Build Quality

The ScanWatch 2 showcases exceptional craftsmanship. The watch features a stainless steel case that feels solid on your wrist. You will appreciate the premium build quality immediately. The sapphire crystal glass protects the watch face from scratches and impacts.

The analog hands move smoothly across the watch face. These hands are luminescent, so you can read the time in dark conditions. The watch maintains a classic appearance that works with any outfit. You can wear it to business meetings, casual outings, or formal events.

The watch weighs 58 grams for the 42mm version. This weight feels substantial without being too heavy. The silicone band provides comfort during all-day wear. You can swap bands easily to match different styles and occasions. Withings offers various band options in different materials and colors.

The crown and button on the side allow easy navigation. You press the crown to access different functions. The watch responds quickly to your inputs. The interface feels intuitive even for first-time users. You will master the controls within a few minutes.

Health Monitoring Features

The ScanWatch 2 excels at health monitoring. This watch includes sensors that track multiple vital signs continuously. You get comprehensive health data without wearing multiple devices.

ECG monitoring is one of the standout features. The watch can record a medical-grade electrocardiogram in 30 seconds. You simply place your fingers on the bezel while the watch records. The data gets analyzed instantly. You receive results showing normal sinus rhythm or signs of atrial fibrillation.

The continuous heart rate monitor tracks your pulse throughout the day and night. You can check your current heart rate at any time. The watch alerts you if your heart rate becomes unusually high or low. This feature provides peace of mind for people with heart conditions.

SpO2 monitoring measures your blood oxygen saturation levels. The watch automatically checks your oxygen levels during sleep. Low oxygen levels can indicate sleep apnea or other respiratory issues. You receive detailed reports about your overnight oxygen levels.

Body temperature tracking happens continuously in the background. The watch uses TempTech24/7 technology to monitor your baseline temperature. Changes in body temperature can indicate illness or hormonal changes. Women can use this data for cycle tracking and fertility awareness.

Top 3 Alternatives for Withings ScanWatch 2

Activity and Fitness Tracking

The ScanWatch 2 tracks your daily activities automatically. The watch counts your steps accurately throughout the day. You can set daily step goals and monitor your progress. The watch also tracks distance, calories burned, and elevation gained.

Connected GPS allows accurate distance tracking during outdoor activities. The watch connects to your smartphone’s GPS. You can track running, walking, cycling, and hiking routes. The watch records your path and provides detailed workout statistics.

The watch includes 30+ sport modes for different activities. You can select specific modes for swimming, yoga, tennis, and more. Each mode provides tailored metrics for that activity. The watch automatically detects some activities without manual activation.

Workout recovery tracking helps you avoid overtraining. The watch analyzes your heart rate variability after exercise. You receive recommendations about when to push harder or rest. This feature helps optimize your training schedule.

The watch provides a VO2 max estimate based on your fitness level. This metric indicates your cardiovascular fitness. You can track improvements in your fitness over time. Higher VO2 max values generally indicate better aerobic capacity.

Sleep Tracking and Analysis

Sleep tracking is where the ScanWatch 2 truly shines. The watch monitors your sleep automatically every night. You do not need to activate any special mode. The watch detects when you fall asleep and wake up.

The watch tracks four sleep stages: light sleep, deep sleep, REM sleep, and time awake. You receive a detailed breakdown of each stage. The Withings app shows how long you spent in each phase. You can identify patterns in your sleep quality over time.

Sleep score calculation provides a simple metric to understand your sleep quality. The watch considers multiple factors including duration, depth, and regularity. You receive a score from 0 to 100 each morning. Higher scores indicate better sleep quality.

Respiratory disturbances get detected during sleep. The watch monitors breathing patterns throughout the night. It can identify potential signs of sleep apnea. You receive alerts if breathing disturbances occur frequently. This information can prompt you to consult a healthcare provider.

Temperature-based cycle tracking uses nighttime body temperature changes. Women can track their menstrual cycles more accurately. The watch predicts ovulation windows based on temperature patterns. This feature works without requiring manual input of cycle dates.

Battery Life and Charging

The 30-day battery life is one of the ScanWatch 2’s biggest advantages. You charge the watch about once per month. This extended battery life eliminates the daily charging routine required by most smartwatches.

Battery life depends on your usage patterns. If you frequently use GPS or take many ECG readings, the battery drains faster. Typical usage with standard health tracking should last close to 30 days. Some users report getting 25 to 35 days depending on settings.

Charging takes approximately 2 hours to reach 100%. The watch uses a proprietary charging cable with a magnetic connector. You place the watch on the charging puck, and it connects magnetically. The watch indicates charging status on the display.

You will appreciate not needing to charge your watch constantly. You can travel for weeks without packing a charger. The watch will still track all your health metrics throughout long trips. This convenience makes the ScanWatch 2 practical for busy lifestyles.

Recent updates have improved battery life to 35 days for some users. Withings continues optimizing the watch software. You may see even better battery performance with future firmware updates.

Water Resistance and Durability

The ScanWatch 2 features 5 ATM water resistance. This rating means the watch can handle depths up to 50 meters. You can swim, shower, and wash dishes while wearing it. The watch continues tracking your activities in water.

Swimming workouts get tracked automatically. The watch detects when you start swimming. It counts laps and measures swimming distance. You receive detailed statistics about your swimming sessions. The watch handles both pool and open water swimming.

The sapphire crystal glass is highly scratch-resistant. You will struggle to scratch this glass during normal use. The material is second only to diamond in hardness. Your watch face will stay clear and readable for years.

The stainless steel case provides excellent durability. The metal construction handles bumps and impacts well. The watch can survive accidental drops onto hard surfaces. You will not worry about damaging it during active use.

The silicone bands resist water and sweat. They dry quickly after exposure to moisture. You can replace bands if they show wear over time. Withings sells replacement bands separately in various styles.

Smartphone App and Data Management

The Withings Health Mate app serves as your health dashboard. You download this free app on iOS or Android devices. The watch syncs with your phone via Bluetooth. All your health data appears in the app within seconds.

The app interface is clean and intuitive. You see your key metrics on the home screen. You can scroll through different health categories easily. The app presents data in easy-to-understand graphs and charts.

No subscription fees are required to access your data. All features work without monthly charges. You own your health information completely. This contrasts with some competitors that lock features behind subscriptions.

Data export options allow you to share information with healthcare providers. You can generate PDF reports of your health metrics. The app integrates with Apple Health and Google Fit. Your data synchronizes across different health platforms.

The app provides health insights and trends. You receive notifications about unusual patterns. The app suggests improvements to your habits. You can set personal goals and track progress toward them. The coaching features help you maintain healthy behaviors.

Accuracy and Reliability

The ScanWatch 2 provides accurate heart rate measurements compared to chest strap monitors. Independent testing shows close correlation with medical-grade devices. The optical sensor performs well during most activities. Very intense exercise may show slight variations.

Step counting accuracy matches other quality fitness trackers. The watch counts steps reliably during walking and running. It filters out false steps from arm movements. Some users report slight underestimation, but differences are minimal.

Sleep tracking accuracy compares favorably to polysomnography studies. The watch correctly identifies sleep stages most of the time. It accurately detects when you fall asleep and wake up. The respiratory disturbance detection shows good sensitivity.

ECG readings are FDA-cleared for over-the-counter use. This clearance indicates the feature meets medical standards. However, the ECG is not a replacement for professional medical diagnosis. It serves as a screening tool for irregular rhythms.

Temperature tracking provides consistent measurements. The watch establishes your personal baseline over several days. It detects temperature variations accurately. The data proves useful for cycle tracking and illness detection.

Notifications and Smart Features

The ScanWatch 2 offers basic smartphone notifications. You receive alerts for calls, texts, and app notifications. The watch vibrates and displays notification previews. You can read short messages on the small display.

Notification handling is intentionally minimal. Withings designed this watch to reduce distractions. You cannot respond to messages from the watch. You must use your phone for detailed interactions. This approach helps maintain the watch’s long battery life.

Music control allows basic playback management. You can play, pause, and skip tracks. The watch connects to your phone’s music player. You control volume from the watch. This feature works during workouts without pulling out your phone.

Weather information appears when you check the watch. You see current conditions and temperature. The watch syncs weather data from your phone. This feature helps you plan outdoor activities.

Silent alarm wakes you with gentle vibrations. You set alarms in the Withings app. The watch vibrates on your wrist at the set time. This wakes you without disturbing a sleeping partner. You can set multiple alarms for different days.

Comfort and Wearability

The ScanWatch 2 feels comfortable during all-day wear. The watch sits flat against your wrist. The case edges are smooth and rounded. You will not experience irritation from sharp edges.

The silicone band is soft and flexible. It conforms to your wrist shape naturally. The band includes multiple adjustment holes. You can achieve a secure, comfortable fit easily. The band does not pull arm hair.

The watch is light enough for sleep tracking. Many users forget they are wearing it at night. The comfortable design encourages consistent overnight wear. This ensures accurate sleep data collection.

The 38mm size suits smaller wrists better. Women and people with slim wrists prefer this option. The 42mm version provides better display visibility. Larger wrists need the 42mm for proper proportions. Choose your size based on your wrist measurements.

The watch thickness of 13mm is reasonable for a hybrid. It slides under shirt cuffs easily. The watch does not look bulky on your wrist. The balanced design prevents the watch from rotating during activity.

Limitations and Drawbacks

The small OLED display limits information viewing. You see only a few lines of text at once. Reading detailed notifications requires your phone. The display works fine for quick glances but not extended reading.

No built-in GPS means you need your phone for accurate distance tracking. The watch uses connected GPS through your smartphone. You must carry your phone during outdoor workouts. This limitation affects people who prefer phone-free runs.

Limited third-party app support exists on this watch. You cannot install additional apps. The watch focuses on health tracking exclusively. People wanting extensive smart features may feel restricted.

The grayscale display lacks color. All information appears in black and white. Color displays provide better visual appeal. However, the grayscale screen significantly extends battery life.

Advanced workout metrics are limited compared to dedicated sports watches. Serious athletes may want more detailed performance data. The watch suits general fitness tracking better than professional training. Runners and cyclists might prefer Garmin or Polar devices.

Price and Value Proposition

The Withings ScanWatch 2 retails for $349.95 in the United States. This price positions it in the mid-to-high range for smartwatches. You pay more than basic fitness trackers but less than premium smartwatches.

The value depends on your priorities. If you want medical-grade health monitoring with classic design, the price is justified. The 30-day battery life alone provides significant value. You avoid the inconvenience of daily charging.

No subscription fees improve the long-term value. Some competitors charge monthly fees for advanced features. The ScanWatch 2 includes everything without ongoing costs. You make a one-time purchase with no hidden expenses.

HSA and FSA eligible status helps some buyers. You can use health savings accounts to purchase this watch. This makes it more affordable for people with these accounts. Check with your provider about reimbursement options.

Sales and discounts occasionally reduce the price. Retailers sometimes offer the watch at $299 or less. Waiting for promotions can provide better value. Target has offered significant discounts during clearance events.

Comparison with Previous Models

The ScanWatch 2 improves upon the original ScanWatch in several ways. The new model includes upgraded sensors. Temperature tracking is the most significant addition. The original model lacked continuous temperature monitoring.

The display brightness increased in the second generation. You can read the screen more easily in bright sunlight. The new display also responds faster to button presses. Navigation feels more fluid overall.

Battery life remained at 30 days for both models. Withings maintained this excellent battery performance. Some users report the ScanWatch 2 actually lasts slightly longer. Firmware optimizations contribute to these improvements.

The case design evolved slightly. The ScanWatch 2 has refined proportions. The watch looks more modern while maintaining classic appeal. The difference is subtle but noticeable side by side.

The price increased compared to the original ScanWatch at launch. The new features justify the higher cost. You get more health tracking capabilities for the price difference.

Who Should Buy the Withings ScanWatch 2

Health-conscious individuals will love this watch. You get comprehensive health monitoring without compromising style. The medical-grade sensors provide valuable health insights. People managing heart conditions benefit from ECG monitoring.

Professionals who need elegant watches find this appealing. The watch looks appropriate in business settings. You will not feel embarrassed wearing it to important meetings. The subtle design works with formal attire.

People tired of daily charging appreciate the 30-day battery life. You charge the watch about as often as you clip your nails. This convenience suits busy lifestyles perfectly. Frequent travelers especially value this feature.

Women tracking fertility benefit from temperature-based cycle monitoring. The watch predicts ovulation windows accurately. You receive detailed insights about your menstrual cycle. This feature works passively without manual input.

Hybrid watch enthusiasts who want smart features get the best of both worlds. You maintain the classic watch experience. You gain health tracking without a screen dominating your wrist.

Who Should Skip This Watch

Serious athletes need more advanced workout metrics. The ScanWatch 2 lacks detailed performance analytics. Runners want training load, running dynamics, and race predictors. The watch provides basic exercise tracking only.

Tech enthusiasts wanting extensive apps will feel limited. You cannot install third-party applications. The watch does not support contactless payments. Smart home control is not available.

People with very small wrists may find even the 38mm too large. The watch maintains a substantial presence. Very petite individuals might prefer dedicated fitness bands.

Budget-conscious buyers can find cheaper alternatives. Several fitness trackers cost under $100. These provide basic health tracking at lower prices. The ScanWatch 2 commands a premium for its features.

Android power users may encounter connectivity issues. Some Android phones experience occasional sync problems. iPhone users generally have smoother experiences. Check compatibility with your specific phone model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Withings ScanWatch 2 require a subscription?

No, the Withings ScanWatch 2 does not require any subscription. You get access to all features through the free Withings Health Mate app. All your health data remains accessible without monthly fees. Withings offers an optional Withings+ subscription with extra features like guided workouts, but it is not necessary for standard watch functionality.

Can the ScanWatch 2 detect atrial fibrillation?

Yes, the ScanWatch 2 can detect signs of atrial fibrillation through two methods. The watch provides FDA-cleared ECG recordings that can identify AFib patterns. It also offers irregular rhythm notifications that passively monitor your heart throughout the day. However, this watch is not a replacement for medical diagnosis. Consult a doctor if you receive AFib alerts.

How accurate is the sleep tracking on the Withings ScanWatch 2?

The sleep tracking on the ScanWatch 2 is highly accurate compared to consumer wearables. The watch tracks light sleep, deep sleep, REM sleep, and time awake. Independent studies show good correlation with polysomnography, the gold standard for sleep measurement. The watch also detects breathing disturbances that may indicate sleep apnea. Most users find the data matches their subjective sleep experience.

Is the Withings ScanWatch 2 compatible with iPhone and Android?

Yes, the ScanWatch 2 works with both iPhone and Android smartphones. You need iOS 15 or later for iPhones, or Android 9 or later for Android phones. The Withings Health Mate app is available in both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Some users report smoother synchronization with iPhones, but Android compatibility is generally good.

Can I swim with the Withings ScanWatch 2?

Yes, you can swim with the ScanWatch 2. The watch has 5 ATM water resistance, which means it can handle depths up to 50 meters. You can swim in pools or open water while wearing the watch. The watch automatically tracks swimming workouts, counting laps and measuring distance. You should rinse the watch with fresh water after swimming in salt water or chlorinated pools.

How long does it take to charge the Withings ScanWatch 2?

The ScanWatch 2 takes approximately 2 hours to fully charge from empty. The watch uses a proprietary magnetic charging cable. Most users charge the watch about once per month due to the 30-day battery life. You can perform a partial charge if needed. Even a 30-minute charge provides several days of use.

Does the ScanWatch 2 have built-in GPS?

No, the ScanWatch 2 does not have built-in GPS. The watch uses connected GPS, which means it relies on your smartphone’s GPS. You need to carry your phone during outdoor workouts for accurate distance tracking. The watch connects to your phone via Bluetooth and uses its location data. This design choice helps preserve the impressive 30-day battery life.

Can I replace the band on the Withings ScanWatch 2?

Yes, you can easily replace the bands on the ScanWatch 2. The watch uses standard spring bar attachments. Withings sells official replacement bands in various materials and colors. You can also use third-party bands if they match the correct lug width. The 38mm watch uses 18mm bands, while the 42mm watch uses 20mm bands.

Final Verdict

The Withings ScanWatch 2 succeeds as a health-focused hybrid smartwatch. It delivers medical-grade health monitoring in an elegant package. The 30-day battery life solves one of the biggest smartwatch problems. You get comprehensive health tracking without sacrificing style.

This watch excels at its intended purpose. It monitors your heart health, sleep quality, and daily activity accurately. The FDA-cleared ECG and continuous temperature tracking provide valuable health insights. The classic design works in any setting from boardrooms to gyms.

The limitations are acceptable for most users. The lack of built-in GPS and limited apps matter less when you prioritize health monitoring. The small display serves its purpose for quick information glances. The watch focuses on doing a few things exceptionally well.

The $349.95 price reflects the quality and features you receive. You invest in a health monitoring tool that also tells time beautifully. The absence of subscription fees makes the long-term cost reasonable. You make one purchase and enjoy all features indefinitely.

We recommend the Withings ScanWatch 2 for health-conscious individuals who value style. The watch suits professionals, health enthusiasts, and anyone tired of daily charging. It provides exceptional value if its strengths match your needs. You will appreciate the balance between form and function every day.

This watch proves that smartwatches can look sophisticated while providing advanced health monitoring. Withings achieved a rare combination of style, functionality, and convenience. The ScanWatch 2 represents what hybrid smartwatches should be.