Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 Review

In the ever-evolving landscape of wearable technology, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 stands as a paradigm of sophistication and functionality. Released in September 2019, this smartwatch has since garnered substantial attention for its blend of aesthetic appeal, robust feature set, and seamless integration with the broader Samsung ecosystem. Herein, we’ll delve into an in-depth review of the Galaxy Watch Active 2, evaluating its design, performance, health and fitness features, battery life, and overall user experience.

Design and Build Quality

The first impression of the Galaxy Watch Active 2 is one of sleek elegance. Available in two sizes—40mm and 44mm—and a variety of finishes including aluminum and stainless steel, the watch caters to diverse tastes and wrist sizes. The circular Super AMOLED display is vibrant and sharp, with a resolution of 360 x 360 pixels. The screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass DX+, which ensures durability against scratches and minor impacts.

One of the standout design features is the digital rotating bezel. Unlike the physical rotating bezel found on previous Samsung smartwatches, the Active 2 employs a touch-sensitive strip around the edge of the display. This allows for intuitive navigation through menus and apps while maintaining a slim profile. The minimalist design is complemented by interchangeable bands, enabling users to customize the watch to suit their style.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the Galaxy Watch Active 2 is powered by the Exynos 9110 dual-core processor, coupled with 768MB of RAM for the Bluetooth-only model and 1.5GB of RAM for the LTE variant. This hardware configuration ensures smooth performance, whether you’re navigating the user interface, tracking workouts, or running apps.

The watch runs on Samsung’s Tizen OS, which is both user-friendly and feature-rich. The interface is intuitive, with a combination of swipe gestures and the digital bezel making navigation a breeze. Tizen OS also supports a wide range of apps, although it doesn’t have as extensive a library as Apple’s watchOS or Google’s Wear OS. However, the essential apps are all there, including fitness tracking, messaging, music playback, and third-party app support.

Health and Fitness Tracking

Samsung has positioned the Galaxy Watch Active 2 as a fitness-oriented device, and it certainly lives up to this billing. The watch comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of health and fitness tracking features. It can monitor a wide range of activities, from running and cycling to swimming and yoga. The built-in GPS ensures accurate tracking of outdoor workouts, while the heart rate monitor provides real-time data on your exertion levels.

One of the standout features is the ECG (electrocardiogram) sensor, which can detect irregular heart rhythms. This feature is particularly valuable for users with heart conditions, offering peace of mind through regular monitoring. Additionally, the watch includes an accelerometer, gyroscope, barometer, and ambient light sensor, all of which contribute to a holistic view of your health and fitness.

Sleep tracking is another area where the Galaxy Watch Active 2 excels. The watch provides detailed insights into your sleep patterns, including stages of sleep (light, deep, REM) and overall sleep quality. This data can be invaluable for users looking to improve their sleep hygiene and overall well-being.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial factor for any smartwatch, and the Galaxy Watch Active 2 performs admirably in this regard. The watch is equipped with a 247mAh battery for the 40mm model and a 340mAh battery for the 44mm model. With typical use—comprising notifications, fitness tracking, and occasional GPS usage—the watch can comfortably last up to two days on a single charge. Heavy usage, particularly with the always-on display and continuous GPS tracking, will reduce battery life, but it still manages to outlast many competitors in the market.

Charging is straightforward with the included wireless charging dock, and the watch also supports wireless PowerShare, allowing you to charge it using a compatible Samsung smartphone.

Connectivity and Smart Features

Connectivity options on the Galaxy Watch Active 2 include Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, NFC, and optional LTE. The LTE variant allows for standalone functionality, enabling users to make calls, send messages, and stream music without needing to be tethered to a smartphone. This is particularly useful for those who prefer to leave their phone behind during workouts or other activities.

The watch also integrates seamlessly with Samsung’s ecosystem, including the Galaxy smartphones, Galaxy Buds, and SmartThings. It supports Samsung Pay for contactless payments, which adds a layer of convenience for users. Notifications are handled efficiently, with the watch providing clear and concise alerts for calls, messages, emails, and app notifications. The built-in microphone and speaker allow for voice commands, responding to texts, and even taking calls directly from the watch.

Conclusion

In summary, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 is a compelling choice for anyone in the market for a smartwatch. Its elegant design, robust performance, comprehensive health and fitness tracking features, and solid battery life make it a standout device. While the app ecosystem may not be as extensive as some competitors, the watch covers all essential bases, offering a balanced and feature-rich experience. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a tech-savvy individual, or someone looking for a stylish and practical accessory, the Galaxy Watch Active 2 is well worth considering.