For those who find full touchscreens, constant notifications, and short battery life overwhelming, hybrid smartwatches offer a compelling alternative. These devices combine the elegance of traditional analog watches with the functionality of fitness tracking, health monitoring, and smart notifications.
While the hybrid smartwatch market has narrowed in recent years, Withings and Garmin remain the dominant players, delivering high-quality options for consumers seeking a balance between style and smart features.
Withings ScanWatch 2: A Health-Focused Hybrid
The Withings ScanWatch 2 builds on its predecessor with key upgrades, including a new temperature sensor that helps detect early signs of illness and menstrual cycle changes. It also monitors body temperature during exercise, providing insights into recovery needs.
Retaining the same 38mm and 42mm case sizes, the ScanWatch 2 features a monochrome OLED display for basic stats and notifications. Comfort remains a highlight, making it ideal for all-day wear.
Withings has expanded its strap and finish options, offering more stylish choices than before. For those seeking a premium look, the ScanWatch Nova—a more bracelet-like version—was introduced in late 2024.
Health and Fitness Tracking
The ScanWatch 2 excels in heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and ECG-based Afib detection. It also screens for sleep apnea, making it a strong choice for health-conscious users.
While it tracks workouts effectively, the lack of built-in GPS limits its appeal for serious athletes. Instead, it shines as a health-first hybrid rather than a dedicated sports watch.
Withings ScanWatch Light: A Simpler, Stylish Alternative
The ScanWatch Light offers a smaller 37mm case and a more fashion-forward design compared to the ScanWatch 2. However, it omits advanced health features like ECG, SpO2, and temperature tracking, meaning no Afib or sleep apnea detection.
It still provides heart rate and sleep tracking, though accuracy falls short of top-tier devices. Best suited for those who prioritize step counting and general heart health, the ScanWatch Light is a solid fitness-focused hybrid.
Garmin Vivomove Sport: Affordable and Feature-Packed
As the most budget-friendly option in Garmin’s hybrid lineup, the Vivomove Sport blends style with functionality. Its Swatch Pop-inspired design comes in multiple colorways, including a vibrant mint variant.
A monochrome OLED display handles notifications, calls, and quick replies (Android only), striking a balance between analog charm and smart convenience.
Fitness and Health Tracking
The Vivomove Sport tracks steps, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and stress, alongside Garmin’s Body Battery energy monitor. While it supports running, swimming, cycling, and strength training, it relies on connected GPS (via smartphone) and lacks in-depth workout analytics.
Battery life lasts around five days, matching other Vivomove models.
Garmin Instinct 2 Crossover: A Rugged Hybrid for Adventurers
The Instinct 2 Crossover stands out as a hardcore outdoor watch with analog hands. Built to military-grade durability (MIL-STD-810) and 10ATM water resistance, it’s designed for extreme conditions.
Battery and Performance
With 70 days of smartwatch use and unlimited battery life in analog mode (with sufficient solar exposure), it’s ideal for long expeditions. However, solar charging can be unreliable in winter.
As a full-fledged sports watch, it offers 31 hours of GPS tracking (with light exposure) and extensive workout profiles. Post-exercise, users can access VO2 max, Training Status, and HRV insights.
While the analog hands add little functional value, the Instinct 2 Crossover remains one of the most advanced hybrid sports watches available.
Withings ScanWatch Horizon: A Premium Statement Piece
The ScanWatch Horizon is essentially a more luxurious ScanWatch 2, featuring a 44mm stainless steel case with link or rubber strap options.
It retains the same health and fitness features, including ECG, SpO2, and sleep apnea monitoring, along with connected GPS for workouts.
Designed for those who want both sophistication and smart functionality, the Horizon justifies its higher price with a refined aesthetic and robust tracking capabilities.
The Future of Hybrid Smartwatches
While the hybrid market has shrunk, Withings and Garmin continue to innovate, offering compelling options for users who value discreet tech and timeless design.
With fewer competitors, the hope remains that new brands will emerge, reinvigorating the segment with fresh alternatives. For now, these devices prove that classic style and modern functionality can coexist seamlessly.
