Other Technology | July 1, 2023
Smartwatches and fitness bands can be extremely useful for tracking health-related data. The ASUS VivoWatch 5 Aero aims to provide a wealth of information in a lightweight and compact device, without compromising on typical smart accessory features like media control and notifications.
It stands out from other smartbands in the market by featuring an ECG sensor, which is not very common at the moment but will soon be available. Additionally, it can measure blood oxygen levels, blood pressure, and heart rate. The sensors are located on both the top surface and the underside of the device, allowing for automatic and real-time analysis.
we have tested this wristband, which has an official retail price of 129 euros. It can be a great alternative to conventional watches for those who want to track their health without opting for the larger screens of smartwatches.
The main focus of the ASUS VivoWatch 5 Aero is collecting user data, achieved through various sensors distributed on the device’s surface and underside. On the front, there are ECG and optical sensors for measuring blood pressure and blood oxygen levels.
One interesting feature is that the measurements can be calibrated using professional devices. For example, after measuring blood oxygen levels with the wristband, a medical oximeter can be used to obtain a more accurate reading and adjust the wristband’s data accordingly. This calibration process automatically utilizes the professional result. It is recommended to perform this calibration once a month since these measurements, like those of any other model, are not as representative as professional measurements.
Real-time analysis can be done for each variable individually, or a comprehensive examination can be conducted by selecting the appropriate option and placing a finger on the sensor for slightly less than a minute. The results can be viewed on the smartband itself or through the ASUS Health application. Additionally, the sensors on the underside of the device automatically measure pulse transit time every hour.
During our analysis of the ASUS smart device, the ECG function was not available, but it will be enabled through an update. According to the company, it is capable of performing single-lead electrocardiograms and is certified as a medical device in Taiwan. One advantage is the ability to export the measured data as a PDF to share with a doctor.
It’s no secret that the screen is not the wristband’s strongest feature. With a size of 0.96 inches, it can be small for displaying information such as steps or medical data. The pixel density is not high, and if observed closely, the pixels can be discerned.
The brightness is also in need of improvement, as it can be difficult to see the time under direct sunlight without covering the screen slightly. Considering the position of the sensors and the device’s size, it is understandable that the screen doesn’t occupy the entire front surface. After all, it is not the ASUS VivoWatch 5 Aero’s primary focus.
It charges using pins, but unlike most models on the market, in this case, you have to remove a small silicone cover every time you want to charge it. The main issue we encountered here is that it’s easy to forget to put the cover back on since it completely detaches from the body of the wristband. Fortunately, ASUS includes a spare cover in the box to replace it in case it gets lost.
In terms of sports functionality, it can analyze up to 9 types of exercises, including swimming, cycling, and yoga. This may be a bit limited for individuals seeking detailed sports measurements during their workouts. However, it does offer multiple GPS tracking systems to accurately record outdoor training routes.
One of the main advantages of the ASUS VivoWatch 5 Aero is that it provides a variety of health metrics in a compact size. The lightweight and comfortable design perfectly complement this experience, as the company has worked to ensure it is not intrusive despite having multiple sensors.
It includes a rubber strap that feels pleasant to the touch, as it is soft and doesn’t cause any discomfort. During our use, we didn’t experience any uncomfortable rubbing on the wrist. Additionally, it can be adjusted to fit almost any wrist size due to the large number of links available.
Weighing less than 30 grams, there are times when you don’t even notice it on your wrist, making it quite comfortable. It doesn’t get in the way when going to the gym or engaging in physical activities. It includes options to view smartphone notifications and control media playback, which can be very useful to avoid taking out your phone.
It also integrates an alarm, stopwatch, and timer, as well as a feature that allows you to use the device as a camera button for your phone. In other words, you can leave your phone in any location and trigger the camera from the wristband’s screen.
The ASUS VivoWatch 5 Aero is clearly focused on health tracking, something more common in smartwatches than in fitness bands. Bringing together these measurements in a compact wearable sets it apart from cheaper alternatives, with a price of 129.99 euros. It is especially recommended for those who want to have the maximum number of measurements in the smallest size possible.
There aren’t many accessories that come with an ECG sensor, and although we haven’t been able to use it, it will be available in Spain. Nonetheless, its ability to measure pulse transit time, stress level, and blood oxygen make it very comprehensive in this regard. However, its screen may not be the best for users with poor distance vision, as its size is less than an inch. In this aspect, it falls behind the 1.47-inch display of the Huawei Band 8 and Amazfit Band 7, or the 1.62-inch display of the Xiaomi Smart Band 8. However, none of these alternatives have as many sensors as the ASUS model.
