The Active 2 smartwatch has been making waves in the budget smartwatch segment, offering a wide array of features typically found in high-end fitness watches. With GPS navigation, heart rate monitoring, and compatibility with external sensors, it aims to provide value far beyond its price tag. But does it live up to the hype? In this in-depth review, we will explore all the essential aspects of the Active 2 smartwatch, from GPS accuracy to heart rate tracking, software features, and overall performance.

Key Features at a Glance

• Built-in GPS Navigation with Downloadable Maps
• Heart Rate and Sleep Monitoring
• Altitude Tracking with Barometric Altimeter
• Fitness Tracking for Running, Cycling, and HIIT
• Compatibility with External Sensors (Heart Rate Monitors, Power Meters, etc.)
• Affordable Pricing at $129 or Less

GPS and Navigation Accuracy

One of the standout features of the Active 2 smartwatch is its ability to download maps directly onto the watch, allowing for seamless navigation during outdoor activities. These maps are well-detailed, featuring street and trail labels, making it an excellent companion for hikers, runners, and cyclists.

Downloading Maps

Downloading maps onto the watch is a straightforward process, where users can download smaller chunks of map files to save storage. However, one downside is the limited storage space, meaning users can only store a limited number of maps at a time. In some cases, users may even need to delete older maps to make room for software updates.

GPS Performance

• Signal Acquisition: The Active 2 typically locks onto a GPS signal within 5-10 seconds, which is relatively quick compared to other budget smartwatches.
• Tracking Accuracy:
  • Running: The GPS tracking is highly accurate for running, aligning well with other premium devices.
  • Cycling: While straight-line tracking is excellent, high-speed curves and corners tend to be slightly overshot, affecting detailed route accuracy.
  • Elevation Tracking: The barometric altimeter provides reliable elevation data. However, some users reported occasional errors when the altitude calibration function is toggled on. When working correctly, the elevation data closely matches corrected Strava elevation figures.

Heart Rate Monitoring: Is It Reliable?

Heart rate tracking is another critical feature of the Active 2. The watch performs well for resting heart rate and sleep tracking but shows mixed results for workouts.

Performance in Different Activities

1. Resting Heart Rate & HRV
   • Consistently accurate readings with minimal deviation from external monitors.
2. Indoor Cycling
   • Performs well due to the static wrist position. Minor fluctuations occur but do not significantly impact overall accuracy.
3. Running
   • Steady-state runs show accurate tracking, aligning closely with external chest strap monitors.
   • Quick response to heart rate spikes during interval workouts, making it suitable for high-intensity training.
4. Outdoor Cycling
   • Shows inconsistencies, particularly during high-intensity rides.
   • In some cases, the heart rate readings spiked unexpectedly or lagged behind real-time effort levels.
5. Weight Training & HIIT
   • Struggles to provide consistent readings due to frequent wrist flexion.
   • Similar inaccuracies were observed in competing wrist-based monitors, including the Apple Watch Ultra 2.
   • Recommendation: Use an external heart rate monitor for better accuracy.

Fitness and Activity Tracking

The Active 2 smartwatch supports various fitness tracking modes, including running, cycling, hiking, and HIIT. It provides essential data like pace, distance, calories burned, and VO2 max estimates. The inclusion of power meter compatibility for cycling is a rare feature at this price point. However, there are some software-related quirks:

• Cycling Power Data: Power meter data syncs to Strava but may not always align perfectly with readings from the Zep app.
• Cadence Metrics: The watch does not display cadence data collected from power meters, which could be a downside for advanced cyclists.

Sleep Tracking and Readiness Score

Sleep Monitoring

• Accuracy: Decent, but improvements are needed in distinguishing deep vs. light sleep.
• Comparison to High-End Devices: Falls slightly short of premium models like Garmin or Fitbit.

Readiness Score

• This feature evaluates recovery and sleep quality to suggest optimal workout intensity.
• However, the algorithm needs refinement to provide more consistent and meaningful insights.

External Sensor Compatibility: A Rare Feature in Budget Watches

Unlike many budget fitness watches, the Active 2 supports external sensors such as:

• Heart Rate Monitors (Chest and arm straps)
• Cycling Power Meters
• Running Power Sensors

This feature is a major plus for athletes who prefer accurate data from dedicated sensors rather than relying solely on wrist-based measurements.

Software and User Experience

Pros:

• Easy-to-navigate UI with intuitive controls
• Quick access to key metrics and fitness data
• Reliable Bluetooth connectivity for syncing with the Zep app

Cons:

• Storage limitations affect map downloads and software updates
• Some inconsistencies in power meter and heart rate data syncing
• Readiness Score algorithm needs improvement

Battery Life: How Long Does It Last?

• Regular Usage: 5-7 days with normal fitness tracking and notifications.
• GPS Mode: 10-12 hours of continuous tracking.
• Heavy Usage: 3-4 days with extensive GPS and fitness tracking.

Pricing and Value for Money

At a price point of $99 to $129, the Active 2 smartwatch provides unmatched value compared to similarly priced competitors. It delivers features found in premium models at twice the price, making it one of the best budget outdoor smartwatches currently available.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?

Pros:

✅ Affordable price with high-end features
✅ GPS navigation with detailed maps
✅ Accurate running heart rate tracking
✅ Supports external sensors (HR monitors, power meters)
✅ Reliable elevation and altitude tracking
✅ Strong battery life

Cons:

❌ Limited storage for maps and updates
❌ Occasional heart rate inconsistencies during high-intensity workouts
❌ Software needs refinement for sleep tracking and readiness score

For outdoor enthusiasts and fitness lovers looking for a budget-friendly yet feature-rich smartwatch, the Active 2 is a solid choice. While it has a few software-related quirks, the hardware performance and core functionality make it one of the best value-for-money smartwatches in its category.

Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)

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