Is the Huawei Watch 2 Sport Still Worth Buying in 2024?

When I first unboxed the Huawei Watch 2 Sport back in 2017, I remember being genuinely impressed by how much functionality they packed into that compact design. Seven years later, as I strap it on my wrist in 2024, I'm struck by how this device represents both the remarkable progress and persistent limitations of wearable technology. Much like Chot Reyes trying to diagnose what ails TNT early in its PBA Philippine Cup campaign, I find myself grappling with mixed feelings about this aging smartwatch - there's clear potential here, but also undeniable shortcomings that become more apparent with time.

The core hardware still holds up surprisingly well, which is why I continue using it as my secondary fitness tracker. The dual-core Snapdragon Wear 2100 processor, while dated, handles basic tasks without significant lag. During my testing, I consistently got about 1.5 days of battery life with always-on display disabled - not groundbreaking by today's standards, but perfectly serviceable for a device this old. The 1.2-inch AMOLED display remains vibrant with decent outdoor visibility, though I've noticed some slight burn-in around the edges that only appears on pure white backgrounds. Where it really shines is in its fitness tracking capabilities - the heart rate monitor provides readings within 5-7% accuracy compared to my chest strap, and the built-in GPS locks position within 30 seconds on average. I've taken it on over 200 runs since purchase, and while the plastic casing shows some wear, the functionality remains intact.

Software support is where the experience becomes frustrating, similar to how TNT's coaching staff must feel watching their team struggle to execute despite having talented players. Huawei abandoned proper updates for this model back in 2020, meaning you're stuck with Wear OS 2.0 and no access to newer applications or features. I've found workarounds for some limitations - using third-party apps for sleep tracking, manually syncing data to Huawei Health - but the experience feels increasingly cobbled together. Basic notifications work reliably, but responding to messages often requires pulling out my phone anyway. The lack of recent security patches doesn't concern me much for a watch, but it does speak to the device's aging ecosystem.

Where the Watch 2 Sport continues to excel is in its specific use cases. For runners who want reliable GPS tracking without draining their phone battery, it remains a competent companion. The 4GB storage is ample for storing about 500 songs, which pairs well with Bluetooth headphones for phone-free workouts. I've found the stress monitoring feature surprisingly accurate - it often alerts me to elevated stress levels before I consciously notice them, though the breathing exercises it suggests feel somewhat basic by today's standards. The watch handles swimming reasonably well with its IP68 rating, though I wouldn't push it beyond casual pool sessions.

The comparison to contemporary smartwatches reveals the generational gap. Modern devices like the Apple Watch Series 9 or Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 offer significantly better integration, health features like ECG and blood oxygen monitoring, and vastly superior app ecosystems. Yet they also cost three to four times what you'd pay for a used Huawei Watch 2 Sport today. I recently purchased a refurbished unit for my nephew for just $75, and for that price, it delivers remarkable value. The always-on heart rate monitoring, workout detection, and basic smart notifications cover about 80% of what most people need from a wearable.

Battery degradation is inevitable with aging devices, but mine still holds charge reasonably well. From my testing, continuous GPS usage lasts about 4 hours compared to the original 5 hours, representing approximately 20% capacity loss over seven years. The charging puck remains compatible with modern USB-C adapters, which is convenient, though wireless charging speeds feel painfully slow compared to contemporary solutions. I've noticed the device struggles more in cold weather, sometimes shutting down unexpectedly when temperatures drop below freezing - something to consider if you're an outdoor winter athlete.

What ultimately makes the Huawei Watch 2 Sport still worth considering in 2024 isn't any single feature, but rather its balanced approach to the smartwatch experience. Much like a veteran athlete who may have lost a step physically but makes up for it with wisdom and efficiency, this device focuses on doing core functions well rather than trying to be everything to everyone. The tactile bezel navigation remains superior to touch-only interfaces in my opinion, especially during workouts when fingers are sweaty. The compact size fits better under dress shirts than most modern smartwatches, making it one of the few wearables I feel comfortable wearing in professional settings.

After seven years of regular use, my Huawei Watch 2 Sport shows its age but continues to deliver where it matters most. The screen has minor scratches that are only visible in direct sunlight, the silicone band has been replaced twice, and the performance isn't as snappy as current models. Yet it reliably tracks my daily activity, handles notifications, and survives my workouts - which covers about 90% of my smartwatch needs. For someone wanting to dip their toes into the smartwatch ecosystem without significant investment, or as a reliable backup device, it represents surprising value. The experience reminds me that sometimes, chasing the latest technology isn't as important as finding tools that reliably serve their purpose, even if they're no longer the shiniest options available.