Huawei Watch GT Runner 2 Review: A running watch after Garmin’s crown
The Huawei Watch GT Runner 2 has finally arrived after a long wait for a successor to Huawei’s running-focused smartwatch. Though Huawei has made a name for itself in the smartwatch space, the original Huawei Watch GT Runner may have been forgotten by many. Now, with the introduction of the Huawei Watch GT Runner 2, the competition is fiercer than ever.
In a market saturated with options like the Apple Watch SE 3 and Garmin’s competent lineup, the Huawei Watch GT Runner 2 aims to stand out in 2026. The question remains whether it can deliver enough to captivate users in a crowded market.
Design & Build:
The Huawei Watch GT Runner 2 boasts a premium and comfortable design with a new titanium alloy chassis. It is only available in one size option, but it sits comfortably on the wrist and is durable. The design is sleek and stylish, with three color options: Midnight Black, Dawn Orange, and Dusk Blue.
Screen & Audio:
The 1.5-inch AMOLED screen of the Watch GT Runner 2 is bright and easy to read in all scenarios. With a peak brightness of 3000 nits, the display is on par with top competitors like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8. The onboard speaker provides decent audio quality, though the microphone could be improved for call quality.
Software & Features:
The Huawei Watch GT Runner 2 runs on HarmonyOS, offering a slick interface. While lacking access to key apps due to Huawei’s exclusion from the Google ecosystem, the watch focuses on fitness features. NFC compatibility with Curve Pay is a notable addition, but the absence of offline music playback and a torch feature is a drawback.
Fitness & Health Tracking:
The Smart Training Plan software offers personalized workout plans and training guidance. Heart rate monitoring is accurate, and GPS tracking is improved with a ‘3D Floating Antenna’. Sleep tracking is detailed and insightful, providing valuable data on sleep patterns.
Battery Life & Charging:
The Watch GT Runner 2 offers up to 14 days of battery life with light use. Charging is quick, with a full charge taking around 50 minutes. With the always-on display toggled, expect around 5 days of use before recharging.
Price & Availability:
Priced at £349.99, the Huawei Watch GT Runner 2 is available in one size and three color options. While it may be more expensive than some competitors, its focus on running features and design appeal make it a compelling choice for fitness enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Huawei Watch GT Runner 2 excels as a running-focused smartwatch with a stylish design and advanced fitness tracking features. While it may lack some smartwatch functionalities, it stands out for its dedication to improving running performance and offering a comfortable user experience.
