Suunto Vertical 2 Leads as Top Smartwatch for Outdoor Adventures, Review Finds
A comparative test of the Suunto Vertical 2, Garmin Fenix 8 Pro, and Huawei Watch Fit 5 Pro highlights the Suunto's balance of performance, usability, and value for daily use and shorter excursions.
A recent comparative review has identified the Suunto Vertical 2 as the leading smartwatch for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly for its blend of daily usability and robust performance during hikes and climbing trips. The assessment, which pitted the Suunto Vertical 2 against the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro and the Huawei Watch Fit 5 Pro, found that while each device offers distinct advantages, the Suunto Vertical 2 emerged as the preferred choice for its ease of use and comfort.
Testing Methodology
The review involved several weeks of wearing each smartwatch, followed by an intensive week of hiking and climbing in challenging weather conditions. The devices were subjected to rough treatment, including impacts against rocks and submersion in water. To assess comfort and fit, the watches were also lent to various outdoor enthusiasts. Evaluation criteria included performance, ease of use, comfort, and value for money.
The Suunto Vertical 2, priced at £529, was lauded for its excellent construction and performance, offering features comparable to more expensive models. Its 1.5-inch AMOLED screen with 2,000 nits of brightness ensures readability in various conditions. The user interface was described as intuitive, even when wearing gloves, and the accompanying Suunto app simplifies access to health and training data. A standout feature is its battery life, which the review noted could last several weeks with moderate daily use, easily accommodating a week of intensive hiking with significant battery remaining.
While the Suunto Vertical 2 excels in daily use and shorter trips, the review highlighted the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro as a more comprehensive option for serious adventurers planning extended off-grid excursions. With a price tag of £1,029.99, the Fenix 8 Pro boasts a premium titanium bezel and a 1.4-inch AMOLED display. Its key features include robust construction, pre-loaded TopoActive offline maps, and the integrated inReach messaging service. This satellite communication capability allows for two-way texting and emergency SOS alerts even without cellular service, a feature deemed a potential lifesaver for wilderness exploration.
Despite its advanced features, the Fenix 8 Pro was found to be unnecessarily complicated for casual users, and its battery life was significantly impacted by high-accuracy navigation and tracking, requiring a charge during the week-long test. The inReach services also require a monthly subscription, adding to the overall cost.
The Huawei Watch Fit 5 Pro, at £249.99, presented a compelling value proposition. It offers a bright HD screen, a slim design, and a good range of health and fitness features, exceeding expectations for its price point. While lacking the advanced navigation and satellite communication of the other two, it does allow for offline map downloads via the Petal Maps app and provides basic GPS, altimeter, and compass functions suitable for following established trails. Its main drawbacks were the less accurate GPS and compass for sole navigation and a confusing Huawei Health app interface.
In summary, the Suunto Vertical 2 is recommended for those seeking a versatile smartwatch for both daily activities and outdoor adventures, balancing performance with user-friendliness. The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro is suited for serious adventurers prioritizing safety and connectivity in remote areas, while the Huawei Watch Fit 5 Pro offers a budget-friendly option with solid fitness tracking capabilities.