Starting on a fitness journey can be tough to manage, especially when it takes time to see the results in your figure and your fitness. One way to see your incremental improvements quicker is to invest in a fitness tracker that can provide you with updates whenever you want them. Rather than breaking the bank with a device too advanced for your needs, why not consider an entry-level device? We took a look at the Polar Unite to see if it has everything you need to get you started on the road to better health.
How Well is the Polar Unite Designed?
Interestingly, the design of the Polar Unite is virtually the same as the Polar Ignite. They both have the same sized case (43mm) and a clean design that offers fuss-free information when you need it. The Unite is 3g lighter than the Ignite, but both devices come with the same display, the ability to read the screen in all weathers, and the same color options – pink, blue, black, white, teal, red, and lime.
The band works like a buckle, but there are no metal fastenings, and they are easier to use than a standard buckle, making them great for people of all ages. You simply push the pin into the notch that fits you best and then tuck any excess band into itself for a tidy finish. If you like to switch up your look, you can with the easy release bands and then swap them for different colors and styles.
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How Easy is it to Use?
If you are new to fitness devices, getting to know how to use one can be daunting. However, the Polar Unite makes it simple for you to get started. All you need to do is press the left button twice and click to begin your training. There are several different exercises to choose from, and you can even swim with the watch on to help you track every bit of effort you put in.
However, you will need to keep your battery levels topped up as the watch will not allow you to track any exercise if it is too low. This helps you avoid running out of charge during a workout and losing the data from your effort. If you choose to work out when the battery is low, you will be able to see how your heart rate fluctuates, but no other stats will be available to you.
How Good is the Polar Flow app?
The Polar Flow companion app is a great way to check out your data and get to grips with how well you have worked throughout the day. It’s simple to use and syncs manually when you open the app and press the back button.
Interestingly, the other Polar device that uses the Polar Flow app is the similar Polar Ignite! When you log in to the app, you will see a pie chart full of different colors representing your movements (or lack thereof) throughout your day. This works well to help you celebrate your successes and show you the key areas you need to work on to improve your overall health and fitness.
The app also helps you keep track of your movements, and your watch will prompt you to get up and about as you will get a black stamp in the app for remaining sedentary for over an hour. Interestingly, the black stamp system works purely on sedentary levels, so even when you have achieved your exercise goals, you are still at risk of getting one when you don’t move for an hour or more.
How Good is the Polar Unite Battery?
If you want a device that can last for some time, then the Polar Unite can last for four days without optical heart rate and connected GPS. This isn’t as great as some devices, but it certainly stops you from having to plug in every night. However, if you want to use optical heart rate and connected GPS, then the battery will need to be charged after around 50 hours, giving you just two days of power before needing to be plugged in.
In addition to the battery life, it is essential to mention the charger you get with the watch. All you need to do is clip the charger into the back of the watch and then insert it into a USB slot to charge. You can also use your keychain to transport your charger wherever you go so that you are never left without charge when you need it the most.
Pros and Cons of the Polar Unite
Understanding both the pros and cons of the Polar Unite can help you make the right decision for your individual needs. Check out the main pros and cons now to get started:
Pros
- Comfortable band
- Great for individuals who are new to fitness
- Heart rate monitor
- Sleep tracking
- Breathing support
- Range of workout modes
- Bright display
Cons
- No GPS
- Very similar to Polar Ignite
- Expensive as it has no GPS
Is the Polar Unite Worth Buying?
If you are new to exercise or only want basic tracking facilities, then the Polar Unite may be an excellent choice for you. Its simple design is easy to use, and the heart rate monitor, sleep tracker, and breathing reminders are all great alongside the workout tracking. The device comes with the Polar Flow app, which is a great app to help you understand your efforts, but the lack of GPS does have significant drawbacks.
The other important point to consider is that the Polar Ignite is not that much more expensive than the Unite and offers a lot more in terms of features and GPS. Ultimately, our instinct is to spend more and get the Ignite!
If you’re still unsure this is the right watch for you; we also compared the Polar Grit X and Polar Vantage V2 here.
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Last Updated on February 3, 2022
Emma brings over a decade of freelance copy and content writing experience and is our Editor, Social Media Manager, and regular contributor. Specializing in long-form content such as blogs, articles, lead magnets, and white papers, Emma also provides businesses with email marketing, website copy, and landing pages.