The Best Cheap Smartwatch Isn’t From Samsung or Google
▼ Summary
– The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 Enduro is a Wear OS smartwatch priced at $349, currently on sale for $175, featuring a dual-display design and sapphire glass.
– It offers exceptional battery life, with up to 90 hours in smart mode and 45 days in essential mode, plus fast charging that provides two days of use in 30 minutes.
– The watch includes advanced fitness tracking with over 100 workout types, comprehensive health metrics via TicHealth, and integration with third-party apps like Strava.
– Key improvements over the previous model include a redesigned rotary knob, sapphire crystal display, larger interface, and enhanced third-party integration with the low-power display.
– It lacks cellular capability and runs on Wear OS 3.5 with a promised upgrade to Wear OS 4, though Mobvoi has a history of delayed software updates.
Finding a budget-friendly smartwatch that doesn’t compromise on performance can feel like a challenge, especially when big names like Samsung and Google dominate the conversation. Yet one standout option continues to impress with features that rival, and in some cases, surpass, its more expensive competitors. The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 Enduro delivers exceptional battery life, a durable build, and full Wear OS functionality, all at a price that makes it a compelling alternative.
Over the past several weeks, I’ve put this watch through its paces during runs, rowing sessions, bike rides, and even while tracking sleep. What stands out most is its remarkable battery performance. With a massive 628mAh cell and innovative dual-layer display technology, the TicWatch Pro 5 Enduro can last up to 90 hours in smart mode and an astounding 45 days in Essential Mode. Even a quick 30-minute charge delivers enough power for two full days of use.
During outdoor activities with GPS enabled, the watch consistently provided up to 15 hours of continuous tracking. With my regular routine, a few weekly runs and indoor rowing sessions, I only needed to charge the device once a week. That kind of endurance is rare in the Wear OS ecosystem and places it well ahead of offerings like the Google Pixel Watch 3 or Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, both of which struggle to make it past the second day.
Under the hood, the Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 platform ensures smooth operation and contributes to the extended battery life. It’s worth noting, however, that the watch currently runs Wear OS 3.5, with a promised upgrade path to Wear OS 4. While the hardware is clearly capable, Mobvoi’s history with timely software updates leaves some room for skepticism.
Beyond battery life, the dual-screen setup proves incredibly practical. The top layer is an ultra-low-power display that remains always on, showing key metrics like heart rate, steps, battery level, and time. A twist of the large rotating crown brings up more detailed readouts, including blood oxygen levels and compass direction. During workouts, this secondary display lights up in different colors to indicate heart rate zones, a clever feature that lets you monitor effort without breaking focus.
The built-in TicExercise app supports over 100 activity types, tracking everything from VO2 Max and recovery time to speed and elevation. While the data screens aren’t customizable, a slight letdown for serious athletes, the full Wear OS compatibility means you can easily install third-party apps like Strava or Nike Run Club for a more tailored experience.
Post-workout, the TicHealth app offers in-depth insights into your performance, sleep quality, heart rate history, and progress toward daily or weekly goals. This represents a meaningful upgrade over earlier TicWatch models.
Other improvements in the Enduro version include a redesigned rotary knob, a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal display (replacing Gorilla Glass), a larger and sharper interface, and deeper integration with third-party apps in low-power mode. The watch also boasts over 7,000 customizable faces, many of which can be automatically rotated daily via the TimeShow app.
With dimensions of 50.15 x 48 x 11.95 mm and a weight of just 44.7 grams, the TicWatch Pro 5 Enduro feels substantial yet comfortable. Its 7000-series aluminum and fiberglass nylon case lend a rugged, premium feel, while the 24mm quick-release band makes it easy to swap styles. Durability is further reinforced by a 5 ATM water resistance rating and MIL-STD-810H certification.
Connectivity is handled through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.2, with support for global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) ensuring accurate location tracking. Note that there’s no built-in cellular capability, you’ll need a paired smartphone for calls and messages. That said, voice-to-text and notification handling worked flawlessly in testing.
If you’re in the market for a Wear OS smartwatch that excels in battery life and durability, the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 Enduro is an outstanding choice. Its dual-screen technology, robust construction, and wealth of health-tracking features make it ideal for active users who need a device that can keep up, without constantly needing a charge. While software updates remain a question mark, the hardware and performance more than justify the investment.
(Source: ZDNET)
