The TicWatch E2 offers a simple fitness smartwatch that’s one of the most affordable on the market. Claimed to be the “ultimate fitness and swim companion” by its Chinese manufacturer Mobvoi, the TicWatch E2 provides more features than previous models. The E2 is now swim-proof and capable of accurately tracking swimming lengths.
The specs of the TicWatch E2 are actually identical to the TicWatch S2 that came out at the same time. The difference between the two smartwatches being that the E2 has a sleeker, simpler design and is £20/$25 cheaper than the S2.
Although the TicWatch is not as sophisticated or advanced as the Samsung Galaxy Watch or the Apple Watch Series 4, the TicWatch E2 has managed to achieve an award for value – falling just behind the Huawei Watch GT Classic.
Performance
When comparing it to other smartwatches such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch or the Fitbit Ionic, the E2 is as easy to use. However, it has a less-responsive touchscreen and less water-resistance – 5 ATM or 50m, which is fine for use within a shower or pool.
Features
The TicWatch E2 uses Google’s Wear OS making it compatible with third-party apps such as Spotify, Uber, Messenger and more. It doesn’t have integrated speakers, so users can answer calls, but have to get their phones out to continue them. The E2 does, though, include a microphone which can be used to summon and give voice commands to Google Assistant.
This wearable also lacks NFC capabilities so you can’t make contactless payments. It does, however, include a GPS that’s well-integrated for a superior mapping experience.
Fitness
A user seeking a smartwatch that turbo-boosts their fitness will be quite impressed by the TicWatch E2. The smartwatch has a remarkably high step accuracy counter, out by only 18 steps a mile. This makes it perfect for a user trying to hit high step goals and requiring reliable results.
The TicWatch E2 uses fit workout apps and Google Fit to track user’s workouts, everything from from steps to squats to surfing! Regrettably, the smartwatch does have some limitations in terms of data accuracy. The heart rate monitor is inferior in accuracy compared to the chest strap. During exercise the monitor is sometimes off by 40 bpm or more! However, when resting the monitor is within 10 bpm.
Design
The overall ethos of the TicWatch E2 is that practicality takes precedence over fashion. With the crown button on the right side of the smartwatch, the E2 conforms to traditional watch design. This feels more natural and easily accessible. However, there is a lack of any rotating feature to scroll through any menus or notifications, leaving users to use finer-on-screen actions instead.
On the rear, the smartwatch has a smooth polycarbonate surface with a central bump where the heart monitor is located. Lightly pressing against the wrist to prevent any discomfort. The presence of polycarbonate is a reminder that the TicWatch E2 is a budget smartwatch.
The 1.3 inch AMOLED screen is bright and colourful, with an impressive resolution of 400 x 400. Small text is easy to read and the backlight works well in the dark. However, it can’t adjust to ambient light levels, so is not so good in bright sunlight.
With a 30% larger battery than its predecessor, the TicWatch E2 can easily last two days without a charge. However, the larger battery requires a bigger case, so the TicWatch E2 is not as slim as it could be. Nevertheless, as it weighs in at only 52.5g, users will often forget that they even have the smartwatch on.
Summary
Taking all factors and features into consideration, the TicWatch E2 is a highly affordable smartwatch that does basic jobs and tasks well. Priced at only £145.99 ($159.99), it’s a great entry-level smartwatch.
Multi-disciplinary writer and illustrator. Experience in delivering creative work for both print and online with focus on scientific blogs.
Particularly interested in microbiology and neurobiology.
Her work has been used in a variety of sources from scientific publications, social media, blogs, books and more.
