I was embarrassed to wear a non-Apple Watch until I tried this Huawei model
In a world where wearable technology is on the rise, the choice of smartwatch can often feel overwhelming. For many, the allure of the Apple Watch has set a high standard, leading to skepticism about alternatives. Enter the Huawei Watch GT 6, a device that challenges the notion that only Apple can deliver a premium experience. With its recent launch, it's time to explore whether this smartwatch can hold its own against its competitors.
The Huawei Watch GT 6 comes in several models, each designed to cater to different preferences. Whether you're an Android user seeking a stylish accessory or an iPhone owner contemplating a smartwatch, the GT 6 offers features that may just sway your decision.
A closer look at the design
One of the standout features of the Huawei Watch GT 6 is its design. At first glance, it may resemble smartwatches from brands like Samsung or Xiaomi, but it brings its own unique flair to the table. The 46 mm model strikes a balance between size and aesthetic appeal. Its steel casing gives it a classic look reminiscent of traditional watches while incorporating modern smartwatch elements.
The rounded display is surrounded by a bezel with hour markers, adding an elegant touch. Notably, it features a polished geometric finish that enhances its overall appearance. The watch is equipped with two functional buttons: a crown that allows navigation through menus and a customizable action button for quick access to various features.
This action button can be tailored for tasks like opening the app Wallet or accessing Huawei's payment platform, making it a practical addition for users. Overall, the Huawei Watch GT 6 is arguably one of the most aesthetically pleasing smartwatches available today. Its design, while evolutionary compared to its predecessor, continues to impress with both style and comfort.
Display and battery life: A match made in heaven
Moving beyond design, the Huawei Watch GT 6's display is another highlight. The 46 mm variant boasts a 1.47-inch AMOLED panel with a resolution of 466 × 466 pixels, offering a brightness level up to 3,000 nits. This ensures that users can clearly view content even in direct sunlight.
The display is not only sharp but also features ultra-thin bezels that create an immersive viewing experience. Additionally, the watch supports an Always-on mode, allowing users to check the time at a glance without needing to activate the display.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Huawei Watch GT 6 is its battery life. The 46 mm variant can last up to 21 days on light usage, which is a significant improvement of seven days compared to its predecessor. Under typical usage conditions, it offers around 14 days of battery life, while outdoor sports mode can extend this to up to 40 hours. This exceptional battery performance is attributed to a new silicon battery that boosts energy density by 37% and increases capacity by 65%.
Sporting capabilities of the Huawei Watch GT 6
While not explicitly marketed as a sports watch, the Huawei Watch GT 6 comes packed with features that cater to fitness enthusiasts. A notable addition this year is the Cycling mode, which is a first for smartwatches. This feature turns the watch into a power meter, providing real-time data on speed, elevation, and more, tailored for cycling enthusiasts.
All cycling data is stored in Huawei's health app, allowing users to track their routes and performance metrics. This integration is particularly useful for cyclists who prefer to mount their phones on their handlebars for navigation.
- Multiple sports modes tailored to specific activities.
- Real-time monitoring of heart rate and blood oxygen levels.
- Enhanced metrics like VFC (heart rate variability) for better training insights.
- Fall detection mode that alerts emergency contacts.
The watch is also equipped with advanced sensors that monitor vital signs and offer insights for recovery post-exercise. The new fall detection feature is particularly noteworthy; if a fall is detected, the watch can sound an alarm and contact emergency services, ensuring user safety.
Is the Huawei Watch GT 6 worth the investment?
In terms of pricing, the Huawei Watch GT 6 starts at around 269 euros, making it a competitive option in the smartwatch market. With its combination of style, robust construction, and impressive screen, it stands out as one of the best smartwatches you can buy today. The various sports and health modes offered also make it appealing to fitness enthusiasts.
However, it’s important to consider some limitations. The smartwatch operates on HarmonyOS, which does not support third-party applications. This means users cannot download popular apps like Spotify, limiting the smartwatch's functionality compared to competitors. Additionally, while it supports synchronization with iOS devices, only notification reading is possible; responding to notifications is not supported. In contrast, Android users have the advantage of being able to reply directly from the watch.
Despite these drawbacks, the Huawei Watch GT 6 presents a compelling case for anyone in the market for a smartwatch. Its blend of elegant design and practical features showcases Huawei's commitment to developing high-quality wearables, demonstrating that there is life beyond the Apple ecosystem.
For those still unsure, this review might be helpful: Apple WATCH SE vs Huawei Watch FIT 3.
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