Amazfit has rebranded its companion app, now called Zepp, and it’s better-looking, more informative, and more reliable.
The software was a major downside, and when a smartwatch is difficult or frustrating to use, it quickly gets forgotten. The rugged Amazfit T Rex and the Amazfit GTS were awkward and laborious to set up, the user interface (UI) was inconsistent and often not intuitive, and I had problems with notifications and usability. This is where Amazfit has made the most strides forward, and is especially evident when we compare the GTR 2 to the company’s previous smartwatches. While I’d like some alternative colors apart from black, the GTR 2 is a brilliant-looking, well-made, comfortable smartwatch. It’s quite “deep” under the tempered glass, meaning in certain light conditions, the bezel is obvious. Under the glass is a 1.39-inch AMOLED screen with a 454 x 454 pixel resolution, and it’s as sharp and colorful as those specs suggest. Returning to the glass, it’s the shape that gives the GTR 2 some class, as the curve catches the light in a way that makes it appear considerably more domed than it actually is. I’ve worn the GTR 2 all day and night and it has not caused any discomfort. There are two buttons, the top emblazoned with a sporty red stripe, which have a pleasing motion when pressed. It’s attached to a quick-release silicone strap that’s soft and doesn’t get hot and sweaty. It’s just 10mm thick, the aluminum is attached to a plastic case back, and the glass over the screen has a subtle curve that blends in with the case itself, making swiping comfortable and quick.
The GTR 2’s round, lightweight aluminum case is perfectly judged in terms of design and feel. I assume Amazfit keeps it in the range because its smaller size may suit smaller wrists better than the GTR 2, but I think the diminutive style hurts both it and the Amazfit lineup.
I’ve been wearing the round GTR 2, which looks considerably better than the square, Apple Watch-like GTS 2. There are two new Amazfit smartwatches, the GTR 2 and GTS 2. My fears were unfounded, as it turns out that the Amazfit GTR 2 may be one of the best budget smartwatch buys of the year.
It costs $179, half of what a Series 6 will set you back, which looks like great value, but the brand has a spotty history with its software that made me very wary.
It would be difficult for any smartwatch to displace the top-of-the-line Apple Watch Series 6 from my wrist, but that’s what the Amazfit GTR 2 did, and it has remained there for more than a week now.