Polar Grit X2 Pro

Polar Grit X2 Pro Hands-On: Here’s Everything New!

Polar Grit X2 Pro Hands-On: Here’s Everything New!

• Display: 1.39" AMOLED, 326ppi, 1050 nits
• Durability: 810H mil spec, sapphire crystal glass
• Performance: 129% faster processor, 32GB storage, dual-frequency GPS
• Battery: 43hrs GPS, 140hrs eco mode
• Features: Offline maps, Strava routes support, vertical speed, VAM, 3D speed, heart rate ECG, skin temperature tracking
• Design: Stainless-steel or titanium case, 100m water resistance
• Software: Identical to Vantage V3, historical track display, virtual flashlight
• Price: $749 base, $869 Titan Edition
• Concerns: High price point, performance testing ongoing

Full Review Available

Polar Grit X2 Pro In-Depth Review: A Flagship Watch?

Polar Grit X2 Pro In-Depth Review Summary

Overview:

The Polar Grit X2 Pro is Polar’s latest flagship adventure and multisport watch, designed with high-end hardware and a plethora of features. This review assesses its performance across various scenarios, including multi-day treks, mountain rides, runs, open-water swims, and regular workouts.

Key Features and Improvements:

1. Display and Build:

   • 1.39” AMOLED display with 326 ppi and 1,050 nits brightness.
   • Sapphire crystal glass and increased display size by 15% from the Grit X1 Pro.
   • 810H military durability specification.
   • USB-C charging cable.

2. Performance and Durability:

   • Processor speed increased by 129% (275Mhz processor).
   • Enhanced dual-frequency/multiband GNSS/GPS with redesigned antenna.
   • 32GB storage for maps, including preloaded North America & Europe maps.

3. Advanced Features:

   • Strava Routes syncing.
   • Historical track/route display on navigation maps.
   • Vertical Speed, VAM, and 3D speed calculation.
   • 4th Gen optical heart rate sensor with ELIXIR algorithms and ECG functionality.
   • Nightly skin temperature tracking and new optical heart rate error correction feature.

4. Battery Life:

   • 43 hours in GPS training mode, up to 140 hours in eco mode.
   • Maintains 100m water resistance and a temperature range of -20°C to +50°C.

5. Design Options:

   • Available in Night Black & Stone Gray, and a Titan Edition.
   • Titan edition includes a secondary leather strap and a lighter total weight.

Comparisons:

• Polar Grit X2 Pro vs. Polar Vantage V3:
  • The Grit X2 Pro differs mainly in its external case design and enhanced GPS antenna.
  • Both watches share the same software, HR sensor, GPS chipset, and battery.

User Experience:

1. General Usability:

   • Five buttons and an AMOLED touchscreen for navigation.
   • Gesture-based and Always-On display modes affect battery life.
   • Activity and sleep tracking features are robust but sometimes inflate step counts.

2. Sleep Tracking:

   • Detailed sleep metrics through Sleep Boost, Nightly Recharge, and Nightly Skin Temperature.
   • Accurate sleep detection, but occasional issues with data synchronization.

3. Smartwatch Features:

   • Text notifications and basic media control, but no onboard music storage or contactless payments.

4. Sport Tracking:

   • Extensive sport profiles with customizable data fields.
   • GPS/HR lock, structured workouts, and heart rate sensor broadcasting.
   • Visibility and performance in various conditions are excellent.
   • Lack of integration with TrainingPeaks for structured workouts.

5. Sensor Pairing:

   • Supports Bluetooth Smart sensors for various metrics, including heart rate and cycling power meters.

Final Thoughts:

The Polar Grit X2 Pro is a powerful multisport watch with significant improvements over its predecessor, the Grit X1 Pro. It offers advanced features, robust performance, and excellent durability, making it suitable for serious athletes and adventurers. However, minor usability issues and a high price point may be drawbacks for some users. Overall, it stands out for its comprehensive feature set and accuracy in tracking various activities.