Last year, we took a look at the Fitbit Versa and were impressed. Now, we take a look at the new, updated version – the Fitbit Versa 2.
Fitbit’s all-in-one premium health and fitness smartwatch, the Versa 2 has got a bit of an upgrade – most of which are under the hood glass and aren’t very noticeable at first glance.
The Fitbit Versa 2 looks very much like the previous generation. The form factor and design are the same as they were – it might be slightly lighter though.
I’m personally a fan of bigger watches. The Versa’s AMOLED screen is definitely big enough for all the information you need at 40mm by 40mm (biggier than the Versa), but I would never call it bulky – at only 38 grams, it is the exact opposite.
The Versa 2 features an upgraded AMOLED screen instead of LED for brighter colour contrast and clarity, protected by Corning Gorrilla Glass 3.
Some of the real impressice upgrades are internal and come with Fitbit’s newest OS 4.1 update.
The Versa 2 now features an ‘always-on’ clock face mode that allows you to store up to 5 faces to swap out as you like. While Fitbit states that the battery can last up to 6 days, it’s closer to 5 days with the always-on mode – which is still better than the 4 days you could squeeze out of the first Versa.
Most importantly for me though, the new OS 4.1 update also brings with it a new-and-improved algorithm for Fitbit’s proprietary 24/7 PurePulse heart rate tracking technology which uses machine learning to recognize the unique signature of heart rate in the optical sensor.
The Versa 2 is able to store heart rate data at 1-second intervals during exercise tracking and at 5-second intervals all other times.
Sleep tracking is also much more accurate than the first version, which I found never really worked as well as it could have for me.
A new feature called ‘Smart Wake’ will gently begin to wake you with subtle vibrations during the optimal part of your sleep cycle within a 30-minute window prior to your pre-set alarm, letting you start your days more refreshed.
Connect the Versa 2 to your mobile via bluetooth and get connected to the Fitbit ecosystem of apps and utilities.
In addition to the upgrades, it retains its swimproof (50m) capabilities with a variety of interchangeable straps and all other featured that the original had.
You can also enjoy cashless payments with Fitbit Pay helps you access your credit and debit cards from anywhere and even use it for public transport payment.
Retailing at SGD 318, while slightly more expensive the Fitbit Versa 2 Smartwatch, is an upgrade on the original in almost every aspect and still remains a value purchase and a really good all-rounder.