Garmin Unveils Lily 2 Active: The Stylish Performance Watch

Garmin has officially unveiled the latest addition to its Lily series, the Lily 2 Active, a smartwatch designed to attract fans of Fitbit devices while enhancing the functionality of its predecessor. The new model does not replace the standard Lily 2 but rather complements it, introducing a focus on fitness through the integration of GPS technology. This addition allows users to track outdoor workouts, such as mapped runs, without the necessity of connecting a smartphone via Bluetooth.

The Garmin Lily 2 Active offers the aesthetic appeal of a lifestyle watch but is equipped with features that cater to serious fitness enthusiasts. The upgrade includes an impressive increase in battery life, extending the operational capacity from a modest five days in the original Lily 2 to an impressive nine days in the Lily 2 Active. This enhancement ensures that even after an hour-long run, users won’t have to worry about significantly draining the watch’s battery. Garmin has rated the watch for up to nine hours of GPS use, a remarkable improvement for a device of its size.

While testing Garmin’s more robust models, such as the Fenix 8 and Enduro 3, I found that they experienced only minor reductions in battery life after similar running sessions. This is noteworthy given that the Lily 2 Active is a smaller, lighter option aimed at a different market segment. With a 38mm face, it provides a comfortable fit for various wrist sizes and styles.

The display of the Garmin Lily 2 Active is uniquely designed. It features a monochrome screen that is positioned behind a translucent layer, which gives the watch a refined and subtle appearance. The display’s design is complemented by a pattern of curved lines, with the tone of this pattern coordinated with the bezel color—available in green, silver, or light gold. Unlike many modern smartwatches, the Lily 2 Active does not feature an always-on display. Instead, it lights up when the user presses a side button or lifts their wrist to check the time, adding an element of charm to its design. This approach allows the display to be discreet when not in use, which is a unique aspect that differentiates it from other offerings on the market.

In terms of functionality, the Garmin Lily 2 Active is closely aligned with the original Lily 2, offering several health and fitness tracking features. It includes Pulse Ox technology, Garmin’s proprietary blood oxygenation measurement tool, and provides continuous heart rate monitoring around the clock. Additionally, it supports Garmin Pay, allowing for seamless contactless payments, which adds convenience for users on the go. The watch is equipped with multiple exercise tracking modes, catering to a variety of physical activities, making it a versatile companion for fitness enthusiasts.

Despite its smaller screen size, the Lily 2 Active does not compromise on connectivity. It can relay notifications and messages from your smartphone, ensuring that users stay connected without having to frequently check their devices. This blend of features positions the Garmin Lily 2 Active as a formidable competitor to several popular Fitbit models, including the Charge 6, Versa 4, and Sense 2. However, it’s worth noting that while it offers a range of health and fitness features, it does lack some advanced capabilities found in some Fitbit devices, such as ECG (electrocardiogram) readings, which could be a drawback for some health-conscious consumers.

The Garmin Lily 2 Active is priced at $299.99 and is available in three distinct styles. Buyers can choose from a straightforward green model, a silver version paired with a lilac strap, or a more luxurious gold variant featuring a “bone” color strap. This variety in design allows users to select a model that best fits their personal style, making it not just a functional gadget but also a fashionable accessory.

In conclusion, the Garmin Lily 2 Active is a well-rounded smartwatch that aims to appeal to Fitbit users and fitness enthusiasts alike. With its enhanced GPS capabilities, extended battery life, and stylish design, it is well-positioned in the competitive wearables market. While it may not have all the advanced health monitoring features that some consumers desire, its combination of fitness tracking, lifestyle aesthetics, and essential smartwatch functionalities makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking to enhance their fitness journey while maintaining a sense of style.