TESTCENTRE
Compass display
Dive settings menu
Conservatism level
displayed in one of the two other options which provide the essential information in slightly different format.
The fourth option has an almost halfscreen sized compass at the top of the display with a pared-down NDL, depth, PO2 and dive time information section. The compass uses a two-button push selection protocol to select a chosen bearing, 180 ° return course, plus 90 left and 90 right. Very simple to operate and accurate too.
Using my regular computer side-byside with the pair’ s personal settings duplicated, the two profiles were too close to call and while the actual layout differed in some respects, the larger numerals of the Balance 2, not so apparent at the surface were a pleasant surprise while underwater.
Although Amazfit has previously included a freediving application with some of their wearables, this is their first foray into actual scuba diving territory. At the time of writing, I’ ve only managed a handful of dives with the unit and yet to venture into any decompression, but so far I have to say I’ m impressed.
It did everything it’ s supposed to do, always a plus when your life may depend on it! The display provided easily-readable information with visual and vibrating alerts for depth and duration. The flywheel is the key component for using the device once below the surface. It’ s a little different and may take a dive or two before you become accustomed to it.
If you’ re wearing a thick pair of gloves, do resist the obvious temptation to grip it between finger and thumb. Instead, imply run your finger along its ridged side. The device is supplied with a tiny
Safety stop
Decompression display
USB charger, less size than the watch itself, so it would pay to keep it in a safe place for fear of mislaying it. A full charge will last up to 21 days.
I was also provided with an example of Amazfit’ s Helios strap. This is a tiny flat transmitter with Velcro strap, which can be substituted for the watch itself when undertaking some non-diving exercise when you may want low profile wristwear. Weight-training, running or swimming come to mind, but this £ 99 accessory will continue to transmit your vital signs such as heart rate to the Zepp App, which records all your activities, diving included, to your phone or device.
The Helios strap has little use in terms of diving, but if like me, you can’ t sleep wearing a watch and want to record sleep patterns for 24 / 7 health monitoring, the Helios is just the ticket.
In conclusion, I’ d say the Balance 2 has a lot going for it, both topside and below the waterline. Its diving-related features are fairly comprehensive, air-integration aside, and comparable with many of its more expensive competitors. The interface is very user-friendly and the watch’ s appearance and wearability are also perfect for everyday use.
SCUBA SAYS
Amazfit’ s new Balance 2 dives headfirst into the sink-or-swim world of the dive computer and comes to the surface smiling. If you’ re in the market for a smartwatch that doubles as a diving computer this device is very competitively priced.
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