Suunto Vertical 2: A Bright Leap Forward in Fitness Tracking

Introduction

The Suunto Vertical 2 marks an exciting evolution for the brand that has long been a staple in the fitness tracking world. With its bright AMOLED screen, strong tracking capabilities, and solid battery life, this device appeals especially to Suunto's loyal fans and to those scouting for more affordable alternatives to pricier options like Garmin's Fenix 8 Pro. In this review, I'll touch on the device's appealing and not-so-appealing attributes, providing both practical insights and forward-looking context.

A New Era: Embracing AMOLED

The standout feature of the Vertical 2 is clearly its AMOLED display. Not only is it larger and brighter than previous models, but it makes navigation and tracking tasks much more enjoyable—especially under varied lighting conditions. The shift from a traditional MIP (Memory-in-Pixel) display has turned the outdoor watch into a visually appealing gadget. This change also improves its usability, allowing for clear map reading and more immersive tracking.

Design and Comfort

Weighing in at 3.07 oz for the titanium model and 2.61 oz for the stainless steel variant, the Vertical 2 is hefty but manageable. Its solid build instills confidence, but be warned: this isn't a watch that fades into the background. You know you're wearing it. The silicone strap fits snugly and keeps the watch secure even during rigorous activities.

Feature Set: Pros and Cons

Pros: Colorful display, excellent battery life, extensive sports modes.

Cons: Feature limitations on iPhones, bulky for some users, sleep and heart rate tracking issues.

While Suunto touts over 100 sports modes—from running to swimming—there are some usability issues. The heart rate tracking, in particular, can be erratic, particularly during lower intensity workouts. While it claims to offer improved optical-based PPG sensor tracking, those who are serious athletes may find it necessary to use a chest strap for more accurate readings.

Battery Life: A Spark of Promise

Suunto has made vast improvements in power efficiency with the Vertical 2. Even with the AMOLED screen drawing more power, I've found that the watch doesn't demand frequent charging. In my testing, using the GPS feature for two hours only drained about 2-3% of the battery. That's impressive, especially for an outdoor watch, where battery life can be a significant drawback.

Software and Usability

The software on the Vertical 2 has also seen enhancements. The integration with apps like TrainingPeaks allows users to follow specific training plans directly from the watch. However, I found the data presentation somewhat outdated. The metrics can feel trapped in a bygone era of fitness tracking, lacking the engaging interface that has become standard in other brands.

Pricing and Comparison

At $599, the Vertical 2 competes against other high-end fitness trackers while bringing a blend of durability and feature-rich performance to the table. However, considering the existence of the Suunto Race 2 at a similar price point, the question becomes whether you need both these devices. Garmin's offerings present a more comprehensive adventure watch but come with a much higher price tag, which may not appeal to everyone.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, the Suunto Vertical 2 isn't without its flaws, but the positives outweigh the negatives for many users. Its gorgeous AMOLED display, strong battery life, and comprehensive sports mode support make it a worthy contender in the fitness tracking market. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a casual fitness enthusiast, this watch is certainly worth considering for your next adventure.