Just like smartphones, Samsung is trying to take over each and every gadget line in the market. As there are lots of budget fitness trackers in the market, Samsung came up with an upgraded version Gear Fit 2. The new version is better in every aspect, the display is broader, the processor is faster, and built-in GPS is a new feature, only the battery is a bit smaller than its predecessor. Let’s see how better this fitness tracker is and can it beat those who specialize the fitness tracking wearables?
Design
Samsung Gear Fit 2 looks like a Microsoft band, but with a broader display, it’s Super AMOLED and super bright while using the band outdoor. The straps are made of rubber which keeps the band in its place while working out in gym or jogging. It comes in two sizes according to strap; small and large, but you can buy some other size or color straps and attach them to your band as they are user replaceable.
Gear Fit 2 comes with 1.5 inches Super AMOLED curved display with a resolution of 216X432, it feels great reading or scrolling text on a curved display rather than a flat display. On the right edge are the two function keys to navigate through the OS and on the back of the band is the HR sensor and connectors to connect the band to the charging dock.
Unboxing and Specifications
Gear Fit 2 comes in a beautiful black box with the band showcased on the top with a white background and below it is a small box carrying the charging dock for the band. The band wraps around a piece of hard foam fixed on the plastic tray. You’ll also find a quick setup guide and warranty card.
- Display: 1.5 inches sAMOLED
- Memory: 512 MP RAM and 4 MB ROM
- Battery: 200 mAh
- Sensor: GPS, HR, accelerometer, gyroscope, barometer
- Processor: 1 GHz Dual Core
- Compatibility: Android 4.4 KitKat+
- Water Resistant: IP68
Software
Samsung Gear Fit 2 runs on Tizen OS, and the user interface is easy and sleek, each and every option can be reached using a swipe or function keys located on the right side. Swipe right reveals the notification page listing all the notifications from the smartphone. The main screen shows different information; it depends on which watch face you set because all watch face are different from each other. You can even use the band as a watch, just set up a clock only face and there you go (I loved this feature).
All the other apps can be accessed by swiping left from the home screen, and all the modes are lined up. A push of the menu button opens the menu with rest of the apps including settings, timer and music player. There is a pull-down drawer to access some basic features like music player and brightness control. Also it shows the current activity like running.
Performance
Samsung always keeps performance in its devices at top priority and there is no surprise that Gear Fit 2 performed exquisite. The user interface is snappy; only the music control app is a bit laggy but overall the UI experience is great. The HR sensor records heart rate once in awhile and adds it to the health records. Pedometer also counts the steps perfectly, and you can set daily steps goal, Gear Fit 2 also congrats you on completion of a goal.
Pros
- The design is pleasing and fits perfectly on wrist
- User interface is smooth
Cons
- Not compatible with iOS
- Battery performance is poor
Verdict
Even we have a bigger screen in Gear Fit 2 but still we need to pair it up with a smartphone to get more information, but that’s the situation with all the fitness tracker out there. Also, you can use it as a smartwatch without pairing it with your smartphone.
The only thing which keeps this wearable a step back from all the leaders out in the market is the iOS incompatibility, and that’s a serious issue! So, if you are a Samsung fan and own a Samsung smartphone then this fitness tracker is for you! Otherwise, there are a lot of options out in the market.
