In the ever-evolving world of smartwatches, Mobvoi has made a significant stride with the TicWatch Pro 4G LTE. Released in late 2019, this model builds upon the success of its predecessor, the TicWatch Pro, by introducing 4G/LTE connectivity and doubling the RAM to 1 GB. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the design, build quality, display, battery life, performance under Wear OS, the TicHealth app, and the practicality of the LTE feature. Let’s dive in and see if the TicWatch Pro 4G LTE is a worthy addition to your tech arsenal.
Design and Build Quality
The TicWatch Pro 4G LTE maintains the robust design of its predecessor, striking a balance between durability and comfort. The case is a blend of polyamide reinforced with glass fibers, stainless steel, and aluminum, giving it a sturdy feel without the bulk (weighing in at 47.4 grams).
Materials and Ergonomics
– Case: Polyamide + glass fibers
– Frame: Stainless steel
– Back cover: Matte aluminum
– Strap: 22 mm silicone, replaceable
The silicone strap is lightweight, comfortable, and resistant to sweat, but it’s worth noting that it can accumulate dirt between the fibers after a month of regular use. A NATO or metal strap can be easily attached using popular 22 mm buckles.
Water and Drop Resistance
The TicWatch Pro 4G LTE boasts IP68 water resistance and MIL-STD-810G durability. It can withstand swimming in a pool, but we recommend rinsing it with water after a chlorinated pool session. We tested it at a depth of 1.5 meters for 30 minutes – no issues with the certifications.
Display and Interface
One of the most intriguing features of the TicWatch Pro 4G LTE is its dual-screen system, combining an AMOLED display with an FSTN LCD. This setup offers a unique balance between vibrant colors and energy efficiency.
AMOLED Display
– Size: 1.39″ (35.3 mm)
– Resolution: 400 x 400 pixels
– Protection: Gorilla Glass 3
In daylight, the colors are exceptionally vibrant, and the readability is excellent, even under direct sunlight. The automatic brightness adjustment is responsive, although it occasionally jumps to maximum brightness when it’s not necessary.
FSTN LCD Display
The transflective LCD screen activates when the AMOLED display is idle or in Essential Mode. It displays the time, date, and step count, consuming minimal energy. This makes it ideal for running or multi-day camping trips when you don’t want to carry a charger around.
Performance and Software
Powered by the Snapdragon Wear 2100 chipset, Mobvoi claims to have optimized the system for 4G support. However, the weight of Wear OS takes its toll, and you might occasionally experience minor “lag.” The added 1 GB of RAM improves multitasking, but it doesn’t eliminate all the stutters.
Wear OS 2.2 with Upgrades
– Intuitive interface with swipe and scroll gestures.
– Google Fit and TicHealth pre-installed – track activities, heart rate, and sleep.
– Google Assistant support via voice commands.
In the latest update, Wear OS 2.2 received improved battery optimization and faster app startup. However, Wear OS 3.0 is still in the pipeline, promising significant improvements in speed and energy efficiency.
TicHealth App
Mobvoi’s ecosystem tracks over 10 types of workouts, offers detailed heart rate reports, and stress level monitoring. Extreme runners can utilize GPS tracking (GPS + GLONASS + BeiDou) for precise route mapping.
Battery Life and Autonomy
Mobvoi claims that the 415 mAh battery offers up to two days of combined use. In our tests, we achieved:
– 1 day of active use with LTE connection and constant screen on.
– 2–3 days with standard Wear OS without LTE, using Essential Mode.
In Essential Mode, the battery can last up to 30 days, but smart features like notifications and apps are disabled. Charging takes approximately 1.5 hours to reach 100% – average for this class of smartwatches.
Connectivity and GPS
The TicWatch Pro 4G LTE’s standout feature is its 4G/LTE (FDD) support, allowing independent calling and messaging without a smartphone. We tested it with a daily operator’s SIM card and found:
– Call quality: (“The voice is clear, but subjectively quieter than on a smartphone.”)
– SMS and WhatsApp notifications (arrive within 2-3 seconds).
– Music streaming from the internet via Amazon Music.
GPS Accuracy
The TicWatch Pro 4G LTE records GPS signals quickly, within 10 seconds of starting a run. In hilly and forested areas, the route deviation was +/- 5 meters, which is solid for a smartwatch in this price range.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Unique dual-screen system for battery savings
– Independent 4G LTE communication
– Robust build quality and water resistance
– Detailed health and fitness tracking
Cons:
– Occasional lag under Wear OS
– Silicone strap can accumulate dirt
– Essential Mode disables smart features
Conclusion
The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 4G LTE is a compelling smartwatch that offers a unique blend of features, from its dual-screen system to independent 4G connectivity. While it’s not without its flaws, the TicWatch Pro 4G LTE stands out as a solid choice for those seeking a versatile and durable smartwatch. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or simply looking for a reliable timepiece, this model has something to offer.
FAQ
Q: Can the TicWatch Pro 4G LTE make calls without a smartphone?
A: Yes, the TicWatch Pro 4G LTE can make and receive calls independently, thanks to its 4G/LTE connectivity.
Q: How long does the battery last in Essential Mode?
A: In Essential Mode, the battery can last up to 30 days, but smart features like notifications and apps are disabled.
Q: Is the TicWatch Pro 4G LTE waterproof?
A: Yes, the TicWatch Pro 4G LTE has IP68 water resistance, making it suitable for swimming and other water activities.
Q: Can I track my workouts with the TicWatch Pro 4G LTE?
A: Yes, the TicWatch Pro 4G LTE offers detailed workout tracking, including heart rate monitoring and GPS tracking for precise route mapping.
Q: Is the TicWatch Pro 4G LTE compatible with both Android and iOS devices?
A: Yes, the TicWatch Pro 4G LTE is compatible with both Android and iOS devices, offering seamless integration with your smartphone.
Q: Can I stream music from the internet with the TicWatch Pro 4G LTE?
A: Yes, you can stream music from the internet via Amazon Music using the TicWatch Pro 4G LTE’s 4G/LTE connectivity.
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