Timex’s new smartwatch – the Timex Ironman GPS R300, doesn’t look like the most modern watch. The interface of the smartwatch relies on a mix of using buttons and swiping. If you like your tech to be fairly basic and straight forward, this might appeal. With the Timex Ironman GPS 3000, there is no NFC capabilities, no app store, no third-party app integration or any voice assistant. Perhaps calling it a smartwatch is a tad bit of a stretch.
The Battery Life?
The smartwatch is lightweights and comfortable for 24/7 wear. As for the battery, Timex had stated that their smartwatch will last around 25 days on a single charge with every feature enabled with 20 hours of continuous GPS. The battery has proven itself when Gizmodo tested the smartwatch and it had only lost 26 percent in two weeks
Like many smartwatches in the market, this smartwatch is water-resistant up to 50 meters. I think you’ll be good if you take a bit of a dip.
GPS Capabilities of the Timex Ironman GPS R300
When it comes to GPS, it takes the Ironman GPS R300 a bit of time to find a GPS signal. When tested, the smartwatch couldn’t find a signal if you were to stay in the same place. After walking or running, the smartwatch would pick up a signal about half a block later. When the smartwatch did pick up a signal, it notifies you with a beep. Then you have to press the centre button on the right side to officially start your workout.
After running, it was found that the phone had logged a 3.13-mile run whereas the Timex Ironman GPS R300 had logged 3.1 miles. When the user decided to forgo the GPS, the smartwatch counted 2 miles whereas the user’s smartphone counted a 3.4-mile run. Pretty far off.
If you don’t use the GPS, you’re able to edit the distance at the end – but it isn’t too helpful when you’re not running without other devices to compare the end result too.
Heart Rate and Sleep Monitoring on the Smartwatch
When monitoring the user’s heart rate during exercise, the Timex varied by 5 beats per minute compared to other devices. As well as this, the sleep monitoring was pretty accurate for when the user fell asleep and woke up.
Connectivity of the Timex Ironman GPS R300
Syncing as well as over-the-air updates were said to feel dated compared to other smartwatches. As well as this, compared to other smartwatches, the syncing time took longer. The user would sometimes look down to see that the smartwatch had lost Bluetooth connection to their smartphone. What may be annoying for those of you as well is that when you do get a notification, the smartwatch makes a loud beep in addition to vibrating.
Overall
If you’re not the most tech-savvy person, this could be the smartwatch for you. However, if you’re looking for something that fits more solidly into the smartwatch category, there are other smartwatches you could go for at a similar price.
