You may remember that back in 2018 the Tic Watch Pro was launched by Mobvoi, but now there is a new kid on the block – the TicWatch Pro 2020. We have taken some time to carefully test and review this watch so that you can decide if it suits your requirements or if you are better off avoiding it at all costs! Read on to find out more.
What Fitness Tracking Does the TicWatch Pro 2020 Offer?
When it comes to exercise, Mobvoi has worked hard to offer a fully functional tracking system. You can count your steps and use it to monitor the amount of time you have exercised for in the day too. There is a sleep tracking function, and it can measure your heart rate too. The heart rate monitor is good for checking in, but it does struggle to give an accurate read when you are exercising.
Unfortunately, the in-built GPS tracker leaves a lot to be desired, and you will find that the watch struggles to find a signal when you are getting ready to go. However, when it is up and running, you can trust the mileage tracker to work correctly and provide accurate distance results each time you use it.
It is also important to note that the watch is compatible with other third-party apps, so if the brand’s own tracking does not suit your requirements, you can opt to swap to one that does.
How Good Is the Battery Life On the TicWatch Pro 2020?
Interestingly, the battery in the latest TicWatch is the same as the former version, so there is no change in what it offers. Mobvoi claims that the watch will last up to 30 days when it is in Essential mode and two days when it is in Smart mode. This means that you can expect it to last somewhere in between the two and the more you use the GPS, the quicker the battery will drain.
If you are keen on using GPS whenever you exercise, you can expect the battery to drain by around 10% per half an hour of exercising. This means that you will need to be charging it regularly to use the GPS function to its fullest potential.
What Design Features Does the TicWatch Pro Offer?
The design of the latest TicWatch offers the same as the 2018 version. It comes in a 4.5cm case, and you can choose between black and silver versions. It offers an AMOLED touchscreen and is 1.26cm thick. Sadly, Mobvoi has not improved the quality of the screen, and so it is nearly impossible to read it when you are out in bright sunlight.
Like its predecessor, it offers a leather strap that has a silicone underside, making it comfortable when you wear it all day long, even when you are exercising. However, it is not waterproof, and so you will need to remove it for swimming and showering.
It has a large face and is very noticeable when it is on your wrist, which is good if you want a statement piece but a bit impractical when it comes to the gym. It appears that Mobvoi has tried to create something that is fitness-focused and traditional all at the same time. Unfortunately, it does not really work and leaves you confused as to where and when you should wear it.
Which Operating System Does the TicWatch Pro 2020 Use?
Mobvoi uses WearOS for its watches, and this model is no different meaning that it can be used with all the smartphones that are on the market. The WearOS allows you to view your notifications as well as download the apps you want for the watch rather than having to stick with preinstalled ones that do not hit the mark.
One area that has been upgraded is the memory on offer, giving you a full 1GB RAM to use along with the 2100 Qualcomm processor. Even though there is little in terms of upgrading the tech that powers this watch, it performed well without lagging so that you can enjoy all the features it offers with relative ease.
Pros and Cons Of the TicWatch Pro 2020
When it comes to making a decision about whether to purchase the new TicWatch Pro 2020, we have listed all the major pros and cons for you to consider before diving in.
Pros
- RAM increase from 512MB to 1GB.
- WearOS keeps the watch functioning well.
- The strap looks good and fits comfortably all day long.
- Decent enough battery life but be wary of overusing GPS as it will go flat quickly.
- The GPS is able to accurately measure distance.
Cons
- Very little has changed from the 2018 model, leaving us questioning why the company pushed to release it now.
- The design is confusing and leaves you questioning when you should wear it.
- The screen is impossible to read in sunlight.
- The heart rate monitor is not accurate during exercise.
- It is very chunky and large on the wrist, which can cause issues when exercising.
- The GPS struggles to get started, and it can be difficult to get a signal when you want to use it.
Should I Buy a TicWatch Pro 2020?
In reality, the TicWatch Pro is so similar to the original that there seems to be very little point in buying one to replace your 2018 version. While there are many good features for you to use, they just fall short of what you would expect from a new smartwatch. We would go so far as to say that your money would probably be better spent on a better known brand.
In our opinion, we would suggest that you swerve this model and wait for Mobvoi to come up with something better in the future!
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Last Updated on June 10, 2020
A top of the line copywriter with more than a decade of writing experience with many high-end and diverse multinational clients. Lots of experience and interest in writing about and implementing technology. Scott manages the creation of content for us as a freelancer service and even though he is based in the UK, his writers can adapt and cater to our audience which is mostly US based.
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