LG Watch W7 Full Specs Price & Performance Review

Overview of the LG Watch W7

The LG Watch W7 represents a unique hybrid smartwatch, combining the advances of modern technology with the traditional analog watch appeal. Launched in October 2018, it's part of LG's venture into the wearable market. The device distinguishes itself primarily through its analog mechanical hands set over a digital display, an innovative approach that draws both nostalgic and forward-thinking consumers. This smartwatch is designed for those who appreciate the reliability of analog watches but do not want to miss out on the smart features of modern devices.

Design and Build

The LG Watch W7 carries a robust design that balances sophistication and functionality. With dimensions of 45.5 x 44.5 x 13 mm and weighing in at 79 grams, it sits comfortably on the wrist without being too bulky or heavy. Its metallic silver body exudes a premium feel, while the mechanical hands maintain an elegant touch on its 1.2-inch P-OLED touchscreen display. The resolution of 360 x 360 pixels ensures the display is crisp and vibrant, although the analog hands can sometimes obscure parts of the display, causing a slight hindrance in readability.

Display Technology

The use of P-OLED technology in the display provides excellent color reproduction and deep blacks, making it efficient for both indoor and outdoor use. The screen's pixel density calculates to around 300 ppi, which helps in delivering detailed visuals and smooth text rendering. However, users have to adjust to how the analog hands might occasionally hide portions of digital notifications or data, a compromise accepted by traditional watch enthusiasts.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the LG Watch W7 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 2100 chipset, complemented by a Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU and Adreno 304 GPU. It's paired with 768MB of RAM, which provides adequate performance for daily tasks, though it might struggle with the most resource-intensive apps. The internal storage of 4GB is typical for smartwatches, providing sufficient space for essential apps and some offline music.

Operating System and Software

This smartwatch operates on Android Wear OS 2.0, which allows it to integrate well with Android smartphones, offering access to Google's wide range of services. The Wear OS platform provides a user-friendly interface, supporting various apps downloadable from the Google Play Store directly on the watch. It's designed to handle notifications, control music playback, track fitness metrics, and link to digital assistants, all enhancing the everyday experience.

Connectivity

Connectivity features on the LG Watch W7 are fairly standard. It supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.2 with A2DP and LE profiles for efficient wireless connection with other devices. However, it lacks direct cellular connectivity, meaning it operates best in conjunction with a paired smartphone. The absence of NFC also limits some functionalities such as mobile payments via the watch.

Sensors and Features

Sensors are a crucial element in any smartwatch, and the LG Watch W7 is equipped with an accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, compass, barometer, and altimeter. These sensors enable various functions like tracking steps, altitude, and atmospheric pressure, appealing to fitness enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. However, the lack of a heart rate monitor is a notable omission for those focused on health tracking.

Battery Life

The LG Watch W7 houses a Li-Ion 240 mAh non-removable battery. While the battery life may not be revolutionary, the hybrid nature of the watch helps extend its usability beyond purely digital smartwatches. When the digital features are turned off, the analog hands can function for several additional days on a single charge, a practical advantage that assures users their watch won't completely power down in critical moments.

Price and Value

Retailing at approximately 260 EUR, the LG Watch W7 positions itself at a mid-range price point. It represents a fascinating option for those who seek a blend of traditional watch aesthetics with smart capabilities. However, it might not be the ideal choice for users who prioritize in-depth health features or desire the most advanced smartwatch interfaces available in the market.

Conclusion

In summary, the LG Watch W7 is a niche product that caters to a specific audience—one that appreciates a touch of tradition in a world rapidly leaning towards digital solutions. While it may not boast the most advanced technological features available in the smart wearables market, its unique hybrid design and the convenience of both digital and analog functionalities present an intriguing choice. It's best suited for those who value a classic watch appearance but still wish to enjoy the perks of modern-day smartwatch technology.