Introduced in spring 2021, the Polar Ignite 2 is the successor to the first generation unveiled in summer 2019. In various designs, the fitness watch appeals to both men and women. It proves to be not only exceptionally lightweight, but equally waterproof. The precise heart rate measurement, which is customary for Polar (check out the Polar online shop), ensures exact heart rate values for every type of sport. With the integrated GPS module, routes in the open air are excellent.
The Polar Ignite 2 gives training suggestions, analyzes the training effect and estimates the sleep quality including recovery. Also new are a weather forecast and the ability to control the music on your smartphone via the GPS watch.
In this article
Technical details
| Screen size | No info |
| Wrist material | Fluoroelastomer, Plastic |
| Size watch case | 43,3 x 8,45 mm |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| GPS | Yes |
| Battery life | up to 5 days |
| Supported systems | Android, iOS |
| Water resistance | 3 ATM, up to 30 meters |
| Display | TFT |
| Sensors | GPS, Pulse monitor, Pulse monitor without chest strap, Sleep monitor, Pedometers |
| Microphone included | No |
| Speaker included | No |
The many faces of the Polar Ignite 2
The Polar Ignite 2 stands out for its compact design alone. It features a case diameter of 43 millimeters, which gives it the optimal dimensions for a unisex model. Inside is a color TFT display, which is intended as a touchscreen. As a further operating element, there is a button at the height of eight o’clock. The case height is also striking. At just 8.45 millimeters, the Ignite 2 is exceptionally slim.
The waterproof sports watch is available in different versions. Interested buyers can choose between a black and a blue model. There is also a variant with a rose-gold bezel and a pink strap. Another version is characterized by a golden case, which enters into a combination with a beige strap.
In addition to the standard 20-millimeter-wide straps, Polar also offers various alternatives. For example, there are particularly decorative designs with Swarovski stones or simpler textile straps. Polar thus lives up to its claim of establishing the Ignite 2 as a stylish accessory.
Training instructions, detailed analyses and smartphone partners
Compared to its predecessor, the Polar Ignite 2 has been enhanced with several smartwatch features. Even with the first generation, it was possible to be notified of messages and calls received on the paired cell phone. The fitness watch is equally compatible with Android and iOS. A weather forecast has been added. For the current day, the Ignite 2 provides information such as the amount of precipitation, wind speed, and humidity, as well as an hourly temperature reading. It also provides a forecast for the coming days.
Music playback on the smartphone can now also be controlled via the wrist. The wearable supports all apps that the phone itself recognizes as media players. The Polar Ignite 2 lets you skip to the next or previous track, pause, or change the volume at the touch of a button.
In everyday use, it offers classic fitness tracking. Here, it makes statements about the number of steps taken, the duration of movement or the calories burned so far. Above all, however, Polar’s Ignite 2 is a companion for training. It supports a wide range of activities, from running to strength training to Pilates. Outdoor units are recorded via GPS with the specific route. If you’re looking for a specific fitness smartwatch, check out our Fitbit Versa 3 review.
Precision Prime technology
The so-called Precision Prime technology was developed by Polar and means a particularly accurate determination of the pulse values. A total of nine green and red LEDs ensure reliable measurement for every type of workout. After each unit, the fitness watch transmits the achieved benefit and the load. In addition, weekly summaries of the training performance can be called up.
Those who want guidance in the form of coaching will definitely not be left alone by the Polar Ignite 2. It offers training suggestions and even provides running plans if desired. The quality of sleep and nightly recovery are also taken into account. Another new feature is that the fitness watch determines the energy sources used by the body during exercise. It is therefore able to recognize the ratio of carbohydrates, fats and proteins used.
Short-ish battery life
The battery life of the Polar Ignite 2 is around five days before it needs to be recharged. ver, various energy-saving options allow you to get even more out of it. For outdoor sports, for example, the frequency with which the GPS signal is to be received can be determined.
Conclusion
What was true for the Polar Ignite is still largely true for the Polar Ignite 2. The watch takes over the predecessor’s quirks, but convinces in the same areas and scores with a few small improvements.
We find it annoying that Polar did not manage to improve the touchscreen’s usability in the two years between the release dates of both watches. The competitor Garmin showed us how to do it better a long time ago.
Nevertheless, the Ignite 2 is not a bad sports watch, on the contrary. The excellent heart rate sensor and the long battery life make the Ignite an excellent model for users who place a lot of value on recording their workouts. You get the usual Polar quality.
In the end, the question remains for whom the purchase of the Polar Ignite 2 is worthwhile. If you already own the previous model, you definitely don’t need the new version, as the new features are simply not worth it. Since the street price of the Ignite is also up to 60 Euros lower than that of the Ignite 2, depending on the model, new buyers should also carefully consider whether a slightly improved battery life, music control and weather display are worth the extra cost.
