The Suunto Vertical 2 marks a significant step forward for the Finnish brand, solidifying its position as a viable alternative to dominant players like Garmin and Apple. Following a period of uncertainty under new ownership, Suunto has delivered a feature-rich outdoor watch that balances performance, battery life, and price effectively. This review assesses how the Vertical 2 stacks up against its rivals, particularly in a crowded market where consumer choice is paramount.
Design and Build Quality: A Rugged Yet Refined Approach
The Suunto Vertical 2 maintains the robust build quality Suunto is known for, offering options with either stainless steel or titanium (Grade 5) bezels. The titanium model, weighing in at just over 3.07 oz, is noticeably lighter than the steel version (2.61 oz), though both remain substantial on the wrist compared to the Apple Watch Ultra 3. The watch boasts a series of physical buttons – a welcome inclusion for athletes who prefer tactile controls over touchscreens, especially during high-intensity activities.
Suunto has also integrated an LED flashlight into the case, offering adjustable brightness and SOS/alert modes – a practical addition for nighttime adventures or emergency situations. The silicone strap is comfortable and secure, although the button clasp may take some getting used to.
Display Upgrade: AMOLED Brings Color to the Outdoors
A major upgrade in the Vertical 2 is the introduction of a 1.5-inch, 466 x 466 AMOLED display, replacing the older MIP screen. While AMOLED sacrifices some power efficiency (reducing daily use battery life by approximately 10 days), the vibrant colors and improved readability make the watch more enjoyable to use, especially for navigation.
Despite the battery trade-off, the Vertical 2 still offers impressive endurance; two hours of GPS tracking consume only 2-3% of the battery. Standby performance remains excellent, ensuring users won’t be constantly searching for a charger.
Software and Features: A Streamlined Experience
Suunto has refined its software suite, offering over 100 sports modes, including specialized options for running, cycling, swimming, free diving, and storm alerts. The inclusion of multiband positioning technology enhances accuracy in challenging environments, such as urban canyons or dense forests. Offline maps and navigation tools are also improved, providing a smoother user experience.
The watch supports music playback controls and integrates with training platforms like TrainingPeaks, though the data presentation in the Suunto app feels somewhat outdated. Phone notifications are limited on iPhones, while Android users enjoy full connectivity.
Performance and Accuracy: Mixed Results
The Vertical 2 delivers reliable GPS tracking and navigation, but heart rate monitoring remains inconsistent. Tests against a chest strap revealed significant discrepancies during low-intensity workouts, suggesting the optical sensor may struggle to keep pace with rapid fluctuations. Despite this, the watch excels in tracking metrics and provides actionable insights through proprietary training plans.
The Verdict: A Strong Contender, But Not Without Competition
The Suunto Vertical 2 represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering a compelling blend of features, battery life, and design. The improved software and vibrant AMOLED display make it a more attractive option for outdoor enthusiasts. However, the watch faces stiff competition from Garmin’s Fenix 8 (which boasts superior software and battery life at a higher price) and Suunto’s own Race 2 model (which offers similar performance with slightly reduced battery life).
Ultimately, the Suunto Vertical 2 stands out as a capable adventure smartwatch that delivers on its core promises, making it a worthy contender in a competitive market.
