Withings ScanWatch Horizon/Steel HR: Where Classic Design Meets Modern Health Tracking
The Withings ScanWatch Horizon (and its predecessor, the Steel HR) occupies a unique space in the smartwatch market. It’s not trying to compete with the feature-packed behemoths from Apple or Samsung. Instead, it aims to seamlessly blend the timeless elegance of a traditional analog watch with essential health tracking capabilities. But does it succeed in this delicate balancing act? Let’s dive in.
The first thing you notice is the design. The ScanWatch Horizon, in particular, with its sapphire glass and rotating bezel, feels like a proper dive watch. The Steel HR offers a slightly more minimalist aesthetic, but both share the same understated charm. The build quality is excellent – these are watches that feel like they can take a beating. They’re comfortable to wear day and night, thanks to a well-designed strap.
Performance-wise, these are not powerhouses. The tiny PMOLED screen displays basic information and notifications. You won’t be browsing the web or playing games. However, for what it’s designed to do – tracking steps, sleep, heart rate, and SpO2 – it performs admirably. The accompanying Withings Health Mate app is intuitive and provides comprehensive insights into your health data.
The ScanWatch Horizon boasts an impressive array of features, including ECG monitoring, sleep apnea detection, and activity tracking. The Steel HR has fewer high-end health features, but still provides accurate heart rate, sleep and activity tracking. Crucially, battery life is exceptional. You can easily get several weeks of use on a single charge, a welcome contrast to the daily charging rituals demanded by many competitors.
However, the minimalist approach does come with drawbacks. Notification handling is basic. You can see who’s calling or texting, but interaction is limited. The screen can sometimes be difficult to read in direct sunlight. And, of course, if you crave the bells and whistles of a fully-fledged smartwatch, you’ll be left wanting. The price point, especially for the Horizon, might be considered steep for what is essentially a hybrid device.
Ultimately, the Withings ScanWatch Horizon/Steel HR isn’t for everyone. It’s for those who value classic design, long battery life, and essential health tracking features above all else. It’s for those who appreciate the subtlety of a traditional watch but want the convenience of modern technology.
Where to Buy:
Withings ScanWatch Horizon/Steel HR Quick Summary
Key Scores:
- Value: 93%
- Design: 92%
- Performance: 91%
- Quality: 90%
- Popularity: 89%
Top Pros
- ✅ The analog design offers a refined and timeless aesthetic.
- ✅ The battery life is exceptional, lasting for weeks on a single charge.
- ✅ The health tracking features, including ECG and sleep monitoring, are accurate.
Key Cons
- ❌ The small PMOLED screen can be difficult to read in direct sunlight.
- ❌ Notification handling is very basic, with limited interaction options available.
- ❌ The price, particularly for the Horizon, is premium for the feature set provided.
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