Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) vs Withings ScanWatch 2
The Verdict
Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) dominates fitness-focused users with its S5 processor, always-on capability potential, GPS, and NFC payments at $279, though it lacks advanced health sensors like ECG and SpO2. Withings ScanWatch 2 prioritizes medical-grade health monitoring with built-in ECG, blood oxygen, and skin temperature sensors, delivering impressive 30-day battery life versus Apple's 18 hours,making it ideal for health tracking enthusiasts willing to sacrifice smartwatch processing power. Apple's ecosystem integration and faster app performance suit iPhone users seeking workout tracking and notifications. Withings' hybrid analog display with OLED sub-screen offers unique aesthetics and exceptional longevity. For serious health monitoring with minimal charging hassles, ScanWatch 2 wins. For comprehensive fitness features and seamless Apple integration, SE remains the better choice.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) if…
- →Affordable entry into the Apple Watch ecosystem with core features
- →Same large display as Series 6 — no visible compromise
- →Fall detection and emergency SOS for safety
Buy the Withings ScanWatch 2 if…
- →30-day battery life is unmatched — charge monthly, not daily
- →Looks like a luxury analog watch — no one will know it's smart
- →Medical-grade ECG, SpO2, and respiratory rate monitoring
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple Watch SE (1st Gen)
Pros
- Affordable entry into the Apple Watch ecosystem with core features
- Same large display as Series 6 — no visible compromise
- Fall detection and emergency SOS for safety
- Compass and always-on altimeter for outdoor activities
- Family Setup enables use for kids without an iPhone
Cons
- No Always-On display — must raise wrist to see the time
- Older S5 chip — slower than the 2022 SE's S8
- No ECG, SpO2, or blood oxygen monitoring
- No fast charging — takes about 2.5 hours for full charge
Withings ScanWatch 2
Pros
- 30-day battery life is unmatched — charge monthly, not daily
- Looks like a luxury analog watch — no one will know it's smart
- Medical-grade ECG, SpO2, and respiratory rate monitoring
- Skin temperature tracking for early illness detection
- Stainless steel build is genuinely elegant
Cons
- No GPS — phone required for route tracking
- Tiny OLED sub-display limits notification readability
- No NFC for contactless payments
- No third-party apps — health tracking only
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) | Withings ScanWatch 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 7 (upgradable to watchOS 10) | Withings OS |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 30.49 g (40mm) / 36.2 g (44mm) | 39 g |
| Case material | Aluminum | Stainless steel |
| Water resistance | WR50 (50m) | 5ATM |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 30 days |
| Display | ||
| Size | 40mm / 44mm | 42 mm |
| Type | LTPO OLED Retina | Hybrid analog + OLED |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 324 x 394 / 368 x 448 | Hybrid analog with OLED sub-display |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | Apple S5 SiP | Withings proprietary |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in smartwatches, see all Apple products or all Withings products. View full details for the Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) or the Withings ScanWatch 2.