Withings ScanWatch Horizon/Steel HR Review: A Stylish Dive into Hybrid Smartwatch Territory

The Withings ScanWatch Horizon and Steel HR represent Withings’ continued commitment to blending classic analog watch aesthetics with modern health-tracking capabilities. More than just fitness trackers disguised as watches, these devices aim to seamlessly integrate into your life, offering a nuanced approach to wellness without sacrificing style. But does this hybrid approach truly deliver on its promise, or does it fall short in the increasingly crowded smartwatch landscape? We took a deep dive (pun intended for the Horizon) to find out.

The first thing that strikes you is the design. The ScanWatch Horizon, with its stainless steel rotating bezel, sapphire glass, and diver-inspired aesthetics, is genuinely handsome. The Steel HR, while more understated, offers a similarly elegant design that won’t look out of place in a boardroom or a gym. Build quality is excellent across the board; these watches feel premium and durable, readily withstanding daily wear and tear. The comfort is also noteworthy; both models are lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods, even during sleep tracking.

Performance-wise, the Withings ScanWatch Horizon and Steel HR excel in their core functions: health tracking and timekeeping. Step counting, sleep monitoring, and heart rate tracking are generally accurate, providing valuable insights into your daily activity and sleep patterns. The ScanWatch Horizon further boasts ECG and blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) monitoring, features that add significant value for users seeking a more comprehensive health overview. The small PMOLED display provides clear and concise information, though its limited real estate means you’ll often need to rely on the companion Withings Health Mate app for detailed analysis.

The feature set is comprehensive, encompassing activity tracking, sleep analysis, smart notifications (basic call and message alerts), and automatic workout detection. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 30 days on a single charge for the Steel HR and around 30 days for the ScanWatch Horizon in normal use, significantly longer than most full-fledged smartwatches. However, it’s worth noting that heavy use of the ECG and SpO2 functions on the Horizon will understandably impact battery longevity. One drawback is the limited customization options for notifications; you’re essentially limited to basic alerts, which may disappoint users accustomed to more granular control.

The Withings Health Mate app is well-designed and user-friendly, offering a clear and intuitive interface for viewing your health data. The app also integrates seamlessly with other health and fitness platforms like Apple Health and Google Fit, allowing you to consolidate your data in one place. While the app is generally reliable, occasional syncing issues can be frustrating.

The value proposition of the Withings ScanWatch Horizon and Steel HR is compelling for a specific type of user. They aren’t trying to compete directly with the Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch. Instead, they offer a more subtle and discreet way to track your health without sacrificing style. The price point places them in a competitive segment, requiring a thoughtful consideration of your needs and priorities. If you prioritize a stylish design, long battery life, and essential health-tracking features, these watches are definitely worth considering. However, if you need advanced features like GPS, a large touchscreen, or extensive app support, you’ll be better served by a traditional smartwatch.

Where to Buy:

Check it out on Amazon