If the AW3 has better battery life, it might be a real world challenger for the overpriced Fenix 8, but if you’re at all outdoorsy I’d say think about how you want to use a smartwatch and consider grabbing a Garmin instead, especially if you can find a comparable price deal on the brilliant Fenix 8. I’m an Apple guy going back 30 or so years but looked at an AW Ultra 2 in the shop and bought a Garmin Epix Pro 2 on sale for 50% less than the AWU2. Epix is an amazing watch that does everything I need - 51mm oled, practically indestructible titanium and sapphire case, 1 month battery life. Software has been faultless so far and built in support for sports is brilliant (golf in particular is best in class). I don’t really want intrusive txts or phone calls from an iOS mini me watch when I’m working out or at work on the tools. Garmin’s health, sleep tracking, etc are right on the money. Importantly it’s comfortable and I don’t notice it on the wrist. The only potential downside on the Epix line and older Fenix’ models was the button waterproofing design - I surf a lot and decided not to use my smartwatch in the ocean for this reason, though a ton of people have used Garmin’s in saltwater for years with no issues - but I realise both AWU and Fenix 8 have nailed it with waterproofing.
or at least a standalone cell data plan for the Apple Watch on any other carrier in the US.
www.usmobile.com
