Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 4

The Mobvoi brand is known for its range of affordable smartwatches that use the popular Wear OS software. Hot on the heels of the original TicWatch comes the Pro 4.

The Background

The original TicWatch Pro was launched in 2018 and now Mobvoi has released the TicWatch Pro 4G/LTE. Slightly different from the original, it benefits from a cellular connection as well as a better RAM to improve performance. There are also a few subtle changes to the design. Despite these features, it still has an affordable price tag which makes this one of the best choices of Wear OS smartwatch on the market right now.

The Features

The big selling point of the TicWatch Pro 4 is its 4G LTE connectivity for calls and texts, though only through the Verizon network. If that network is available to you, then you can forget your phone when out running. A built-in speaker allows you to hear callers. There’s also an SOS mode in case of emergencies as well as music streaming without needing to take your phone along.

This model also boasts dual-screen technology which ensures that the battery life isn’t compromised despite the colourful, hi-res LCD panel screen.  The software platform is the popular Google Wear OS which is user-friendly and customisable. Although the interactions aren’t quite as sophisticated as those offered by the Apple Watch, they’re good for the price.

The NFC feature enables you to make contactless payments via Google Pay while 4GB of internal storage means there’s space for plenty of songs. The processor is the Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 2100 – now quite old – but it’s performance doesn’t suffer too much. Installing or updating apps slows it down a bit, but in the main interactions remain problem-free and smooth.

The Design

The design of the Pro 4G/LTE watch is much better than its predecessor, though the changes are quite subtle. The bezel surrounding the screen is now textured and the numbers don’t stand out any more. While this makes them more challenging to read, it does add a sporty aesthetic appeal.

This model also weighs 11g less than the TicWatch Pro, though it’s still a little too thick to be suitable for formal occasions. Nevertheless, it has plenty of contemporary good looks and has masculine appeal.

With its snug and soft 22mm silicone strap, this watch is very comfortable on your wrist. You can switch the straps to get different looks.

The Fitness Tracking

There are two kinds of pre-installed fitness tracker integrated into this smartwatch. You can opt for the classic Google Fit or the Mobvoi apps suite. Both offer quite similar data, however the Google Fit app is more user-friendly.

The Mobvoi apps include TicHealth, TicPulse and TicExercise so you can keep tabs on all aspects of your health and wellness. The heartrate monitor tracks your heartrate 24/7 and captures data more quickly than Google Fit.

During workouts, you can easily read stats and cycle through your information by simply swiping. There’s also onboard GPS which will help you track your runs. The data is pretty accurate, with good step tracking results and accurate heartrate monitoring.

You can track a wide range of activities including swimming since the watch is water resistant to IP68. With the LTE connectivity, you won’t need to take your phone to the gym, either!

What Are The Main Advantages?

• Water resistant to IP68
• LTE connectivity
• Inbuilt GPS
• 24/7 heartrate monitoring
• Affordable price
• Interchangeable straps
• Fitness tracking capabilities through 2 suites of apps

What Are The Main Disadvantages?

• Bulky design
• LTE connectivity only through Verizon network

Competition

If you’re looking for something a little better and also don’t mind paying a little more, consider the Android compatible Galaxy Watch Active or the Samsung Galaxy Watch. For iPhone users, Apple Watch outstrips the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 4 in terms of functionality and good looks.

In Summary

If you’re on a budget but still want a feature-packed smartwatch that offers the Wear OS operating system and plenty of good looks, the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 4 won’t disappoint. Affordable yet highly functional, it offers you all the fitness tracking that the average user will need as well as sporty and masculine style.

How Do We Test Smartwatches?

It’s our mission to help you to choose the best smartwatch to suit your needs so you don’t make an expensive mistake. We evaluate all our smartwatches thoroughly, looking at different elements from style and design to function and fitness tracking capabilities.

We’ll test out how comfortable each watch is to wear and how user-friendly and intuitive its controls are. We’ll also see how its battery life holds up when running apps and check out its fitness tracking functions from GPS to heartrate monitoring.

When we have all of this vital information, we’ll then collate it all and present it to you so you can make a well-informed choice.