Matrix PowerWatch 2 Review

A reason why classic watches will forever have an advantage over smartwatches is the fact that they never (rarely ever) need charging. Whereas, a smartwatch will give you a week at best. The Maxtrix PowerWatch 2, much like its predecessor, offers the sensational ability to rarely ever need to be away from your wrist. Therefore this makes it one of the best smartwatches of 2020.

PowerWatch 2 Price and availability

The PowerWatch Series 2 comes in three models. Firstly there’s the black with rubber strap. Secondly is the Series 2 Premium, which comes with a stainless steel strap and silver finish. Finally, there’s the Luxe, which has the cool ability to charge off of your body heat. So you’ll never have to charge this watch. This is the titanium case and stainless steel case device.

PowerWatch 2 Design

This range isn’t as chunky as the likes of the Garmin Fenix 6X Solar, but it still looks like it has a place outdoors or as you workout in the gym. Furthermore, the 16mm thick band and 47mm case means it’s not designed for smaller wrists.

The PowerWatch Series 2 has a superior finish to the first PowerWatch. In fact, it has a strong look with the red band around the circumference. Also, there are four screws keeping securing the case, which has bevelled edges. Additionally, you get four buttons, two either side. Compared to the original, which had a digital crown with two small buttons to the right. The buttons help you navigate the watch and its screens, including starting and ending workouts.

The large case means you get a modest 1.2 inch colour screen, which is covered by sapphire glass. If you’re a lover of thicker bezels, you’ll love this. It’s also easy to read in most lighting conditions, coming with a backlight, too.

Finally, the PowerWatch 2 offers 200m water-proofing, which will keep it safe for things like snorkelling and surfing, but it is not a dive watch.

PowerWatch 2 Features

Additional to step tracking, calories, heart rate and sleep monitoring, the PowerWatch 2 will show you how much energy it is getting from your body heat and/or light sources.

Your app will show you exercise data, but that’s about it; it’s nothing compared to Fitbit or Garmin’s apps.

As for smart notifications, they’re basic. If you get a notification, the PowerWatch will display only a few preview words. Unlike most Android compatible smartwatches, this is a rare occasion where you cannot respond to text messages.

The second series of the PowerWatch has the ability to track five activities which are an outdoor walk, run, cycle, indoor run or walk. You get a heart rate monitor and GPS to complement all this. Again, this is a nice basic feature but doesn’t have the sophistication of a Garmin or Fitbit.

GPS will drain the battery so it’s advised that you only use it for up to half an hour a day, which is a decent run or walk.

During your activity, you’ll get an on-screen display for the basic stats. Unfortunately, you can’t customise your screen.

Battery Life

As we’ve said, the battery life is the best part. The PowerWatch 2 is charged wirelessly. Though, chances are you won’t need it. The coolest thing about these watches is how they charge using your body heat (thermoelectricity).

In short, it knows the difference between the ambient temperature and that of your skin and uses it to generate electricity. So, the greater the difference, the faster a charge you’ll get. Consider that if you go for a run on a frosty morning, it’ll charge faster than being sat on the sofa.

Additionally, there’s a solar panel on the display, similar to the Garmin Fenix 6X Pro Solar.

Alternatively, you could look at the Apple Watch Series 6 if you’re an iPhone user. Perhaps the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 if you’re an Android user. The downside being these two will need to be recharged, almost daily. Though, there are things you can do to maintain your Apple Watch battery.

Verdict

The Matrix PowerWatch 2 will almost never need to be charged, but you have to decide if that’s cool enough to pay for considering it has basic features compared to similar devices.