Withings ScanWatch Nova review 2025

Smart watches have evolved quite a bit over the past few years, offering a wide range of features that even help track important health-related metrics. However, none have come as far as Withings ScanWatch Nova. Unlike the competitors, this device provides a premium look and feel without compromising smartwatch features.

At first glance, I was amazed by the stainless steel lugs and bezel, coupled with polished, mirror-style edges. It’s basically a smartwatch in disguise with a classic design and a small smart display capable of tracking over 40 recognized activities.

I was curious to see how this model stacks up against the likes of Apple Watch or Galaxy Watch in terms of standard smart features. Of course, I also took a deep dive into the health-related metrics it tracks, like the electrocardiogram, sleep cycle monitoring, and respiratory insights.

Together with my Cybernews team, I’ve scoured user reviews, and analytics to bring all these findings to you.

Quick overview of Withings ScanWatch Nova

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Withings ScanWatch Nova: pros and cons

Withings ScanWatch Nova impressed me with its design and features. While there’s a lot to cover, I’ll first introduce you to this ScanWatch Nova review by going over its main benefits and drawbacks:

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What is Withings ScanWatch Nova, and how does it work?

ScanWatch Nova is a health-related metric tracking device from Withings that helps monitor some of the most important health-related markers. It combines the classic design of analog watches with the modern features of smartwatch devices.

I’ve seen quite a few comments stating that it’s the perfect combination of the two, as many are still reluctant to get a smartwatch due to its techy design. With ScanWatch Nova, you can get all the smart functions incognito-style.

Thanks to a customizable bracelet and various design options, you can even wear it to parties or more formal events. What I especially liked about it is the simple analog dial that looks like an ordinary time-adjusting ring. At the same time, that dial is the only gauge you’ll need to control the features and functions of this watch.

With it, you can switch through the modes and access the activity booster, sleep monitoring, oximeter, and heart rate readings. It can also be used to track some more advanced respiratory metrics and assess body temperature. Still, it’s not a medically approved tool that can track temperature fluctuations with precision.

Withings ScanWatch Nova: design and build quality

Compared to other popular smartwatches on the market, like Apple Watch, Withings Scan Watch is on a whole different level design-wise. Instead of using plastic and rubbery materials or even metal coatings, it has a full stainless steel casing. The rotating bezel and rotating dial are also ceramic.

Further enhancing its premium design is sapphire glass rated at a 10 ATM water-resistance level, making it suitable for diving. By default, it comes with a metal bracelet, but you can also opt for other styles, including leather.

As for the finish, it has a protective glass that doesn’t reflect light, enabling you to always see the dials. Hands and indexes feature Withings’ proprietary luminous technology for a more luxurious feel.

Overall, the build quality is much higher than that of any classic smartwatch, like the Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch. On a side note, it does command a premium price, too, but still manages to surpass expectations. The way I see it (and many user reviews confirm it), only a tech-savvy person would notice the difference between ScanWatch Nova and a high-end, classic steel watch.

Withings ScanWatch Nova: health and fitness tracking features

Being the best analog watch in this category doesn’t strip ScanWatch Nova of its smart features. The device also has an electrocardiogram feature, which is useful for detecting signs of atrial fibrillation from home, but it’s not as comprehensive as clinical-grade ECGs.

Among other features, I especially liked the Activity Booster. This handy tool recognizes over 40 activities and helps evaluate your performance using heart rate zones.

Health-related metric monitoring

One of the key features of the Withings Nova watch is health-related metrics monitoring. I have to say I was thoroughly amazed by all the measurement aspects it brings.

In order to do so, the watch monitors the day and night body temperature fluctuations. Along with that, it gives you a chance to perform an ECG at any moment. With a brief 30-second scan, you can get a glimpse of cardiovascular health-related parameters.

Last but not least, it also measures your blood oxygen levels for respiratory system assessments. Through those, you can track overnight respiratory disturbances and consult your doctor about the findings.

Fitness and activity tracking

ScanWatch Nova isn’t just the best ECG watch you can get – it also helps boost your activity and set fitness goals. You can keep track of every move through over 40 recognized activities displayed in a neat animation.

You can set your fitness goals and track your progress via VO2 max estimation and temperature zones. Temperature zone tracking is especially important for workouts and recovery, as it helps boost your performance and get maximum gains based on your specific health-related metrics.

Withings ScanWatch Nova: smart features and connectivity

In terms of smart features, the Nova Scan watch packs a decent punch despite its lack of a touchscreen and a rather small display. It features Bluetooth connectivity and is compatible with the Withings app.

Moreover, the app is compatible with over 100 health and fitness apps. You can export data and upload it to Strava, MyFitnessPal, Runkeeper, and others on Android and iOS devices. What’s more, you can export those scans directly from the app and send them to your doctor for a detailed analysis.

Despite not having the largest screen in the smartwatch industry, it still displays notifications, which I found impressive. You can manage them from the app and select which apps you wish to receive notifications from.

Withings ScanWatch Nova: pricing and availability

Based on my findings, I can say that ScanWatch Nova is one of the best watches for health-related metric monitoring out there, and the cost seems to reflect that. It comes at a $599.95 price tag if ordered from the official Withings website store.

The watch's premium build quality alone is almost enough to justify its purchase, even without smart features. It is widely available across the US and Europe, and you can also order it from Amazon. You’ll be looking at a slightly higher price in that case, though.

To use the watch to its fullest potential, you’ll need to pair it with the official Withings app. It connects with the watch, helps monitor your performance and activity, and displays health-related readings. An app subscription comes at $9.95/month, so you should add that to the final price calculation.

Withings ScanWatch Nova: battery life and performance

Aside from the fancy features that make ScanWatch Nova one of the best smart watches for heart rate monitoring and other health-related metric tracking overall, I was amazed by its battery life. It charges rather quickly, though the advertised 2-hour charging period could be a bit of a stretch.

Once fully charged, it lasts up to 30 days while continually using the app's features. For comparison, other smart watches like Apple’s and Samsung’s Galaxy watch only last between 18 and 76 hours.

I’m not saying that’s bad, but it’s no match for the Nova watch that beats them by a long shot. It should be noted that the estimated 30-day charge could also be a bit exaggerated by the brand. Still, you should be able to achieve between 20 and 25 days, which is what most user feedback points to.

Our methodology

Before wrapping up, let's take a closer look at how the Cybernews team and I assessed the Nova ScanWatch.

• User reviews (15%). I spent hours reading user reviews on platforms like Trustpilot and forums like Reddit to get a well-rounded, multi-angle perspective from many existing customers.
• Value for money (25%). Given the premium category of the device, I also assessed whether the price justifies the features and ease of use.
• Design (25%). Apart from being a health-related metrics monitoring device, it’s also an accessory users wear daily. I looked into its durability, build quality, style, and design.
• Features (35%). Most importantly, I investigated the device's functionality to determine whether it’s as accurate, helpful, and efficient as it claims to be.

As a result, I can confidently say that the Nova watch is worth its price and the praise it receives online.

Here at Cybernews, we are dedicated to transparent and fair testing processes. Read more on how we test health tech.

Other health tech devices to increase your well-being

If you liked the health tech side of the Withings ScanWatch Nova device, I have a few smart tools to recommend. If you’re in the market for something with similar features but different feel or use case, feel free to check out my guides on the following:

• Withings BeamO review – all-in-one home stethoscope, oximeter, thermometer, and ECG readings in a single tool
• Best smart scales in 2025 – best smart scales for 2025 analyzed by experts
• Withings Body Scan review – in-depth look at Withings’ advanced health-measuring smart scale.

Our final verdict on Withings ScanWatch Nova

Ultimately, if you’re in the market for a classic-looking smartwatch with advanced health-related metric tracking, Withings Nova checks all the boxes. It’s a great purchase for those who appreciate having a smartwatch in disguise with all the readings and notifications you could possibly need.

My favorite features are its sleep cycle monitoring and heart rate measurements. Considering its premium build quality, a stunning OLED screen, and high-end materials, I’d even say it’s a good deal.

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