Polar M400 watch: review, specs, reviews

Wrist watches have long since passed from the category of time tracking tools to the status of a multifunctional gadget. Modern technologies allow us to supply them with a mass of sensors, indicators and even measuring devices. On the one hand, this complicates the design, making it more massive and demanding in care, but on the other - for many users, the device becomes an effective assistant in work and leisure. Perhaps, one of the most popular trends in the development of wrist watches is sports. And not professional, but at the amateur level - it is to the category of sports models that Polar M400 watches are included, the review of which will allow to evaluate their advantages and disadvantages.

General information about the model

The model is a kind of GPS-clock, however their functionality goes far beyond this purpose. Connoisseurs of the segment share the functions of the device in two directions - application as a tracker of activity and sports watches in their modern view. The presence of Bluetooth allows the gadget to effectively manage the sensors, which is a good functional base for those who are engaged in track and field athletics, cycling, skiing and other sports involving several muscle groups in the process of effective training. As for monitoring and monitoring of individual activity, the Polar M400 model will also offer a lot of useful here. The activity sensor will allow you to monitor the most important parameters of vital activity, and also to select the optimal biorhythms for sleep and recovery. We can say that almost all modern watches with an "intelligent" prefix have such capabilities, but the Polar developers focused on ergonomics and simplicity, which many representatives of this niche lack.

Specifications

Despite the simplification against the background of more advanced models of the manufacturer, this option does not seem very poor in terms of its capabilities. It's enough to note the Bluetooth technology and the GPS-receiver, which the Polar M400 gadget possesses. Overview of technical parameters, presented below, will form a more complete view of the device:

• The thickness of the case is 11.5 mm.
• Weight - 57 g.
• The screen is monochrome with a resolution of 128 x 128.
• Number of languages is 15.
• Memory capabilities - about 30 hours in training mode with GPS function.
• Battery options - 8 hours in training mode and 24 days when using the device as a tracker.
• Data transfer - via a USB cable, you can transfer information to a computer.
• Water resistant - can be used at a depth of 30 m.

According to the characteristics of the model does not really look like a bonus, nevertheless this has its advantages. Again, the device is a simplified version of the flagships in the manufacturer's lineup. At the same time the Polar M400 watches retained a good performance of the technical stuffing, which, incidentally, is encased in an attractive shell.

Design of the model

Virtually all the "smart" watches of the last generation not only differ technologically advanced functions, but also stand out for their design. In particular, the creators of TomTom experiment in every possible way with contrasts. For example, one of the latest devices is available in red and blue. Against this background, the company Polar decided to bet on conservatism, releasing a model in white and black. Particularly pleasing to the eye is a snow-white body and a strap of light shade. No less attractive is the version of black Polar M400 HR. The reviews say that it looks less flashy, but stylish. The case is decorated with a black frame with a border in the form of a red thin line.

The right part has three buttons that are used to control the device. In the left part are the main keys for controlling the menu, as well as a button for adjusting the backlight. Unfortunately, the developers of the model and could not overcome the main drawback of such watches - a compact and convenient arrangement of buttons. To use them is inconvenient, and you almost have to aim at each press. Anyway, the appearance of the clock was a success. And the version in white design, and Polar M400 Black look dignified. And now you should learn more about the interface and ergonomics.

Interface

The main function of the clock in the form of a time demonstration is activated on the screen when the gadget is not used for training. The rest of the time, the display shows the current activity indicators. In particular, it can be the activity level in percent with the diary, settings, different timers and a fitness test. To activate the fitness test option and determine the level of physical training, you must start the Polar M400 heart rate monitor and set the timer. The modes can be two - interval and with an estimate of the finish time. Accordingly, if you plan to set a personal record, you should activate the second mode.

To switch to the activity monitoring mode, you must click on the central button on the right side - that is, from the screen that displays the date and time. Then it remains to select one of the tracking formats - for example, "Running" or "Cycling". There are other modes of the tracker function in the Polar M400 - the instruction in Russian will help you understand their settings and notation. By the way, the device is also able to monitor the level of activity of swimmers and skiers.

Performance

It starts with the quality of catching the signal. This is the weak point of the gadget, since the GPS receiver detects it for a long time. But the problem is not only this. Even when the setting takes place, it is necessary to remain stationary so that the signal is "fixed". But otherwise the performance of the device only pleases. For example, in the course of running and increased activity information about movements is read quickly and clearly. Switching between the Polar M400 screens takes place imperceptibly and without delays, so you will not have to be distracted by unnecessary actions. Also help audio alerts, thanks to which you can not even turn to the display. It is enough to adjust the sensor to measure distances with cutoffs and the clock will signal each time as the distance travels, signaling the user with a characteristic sound.

Features and advantages of the model

Of course, it is necessary to speak about the advantages against the background of similar models from segments close to the initial level. Nevertheless, even professional athletes will be able to find interesting options for themselves. So, it's worth the opportunity of fixing and tracking achievements, feedback and altimeter. By the way, you can set records by several criteria in the Polar M400 system. The instruction also recommends accessing the home Internet service Flow. Here you can play a sports diary.

However, this toolkit is rather for amateurs, since there is little practical use from it. From the point of view of analyzing its performance, the service is not bad, but many lack the social component of interaction with other owners of Polar M400 watches, as well as well-designed reporting.

Positive feedback about the model

First of all, the model attracts its price, which varies from 10 to 15 thousand rubles. In a classroom clock with an integrated GPS system, this is one of the most affordable options. Also, the owners praise the loud sound with signals, a sturdy battery that lasts about a month, as well as a contrast screen Polar M400. The reviews especially highlight the wide possibilities for the formation of content on the display. For example, you can place lines with the most relevant information, increase the font, etc. Work and functionality also do not cause complaints. The model is equipped with a simple filling without excesses, and this could not but affect the speed and efficiency.

Negative feedback

Virtually everything in the device goes into a plus, has the opposite side. In particular, high performance was achieved by eliminating many of the functions that have become familiar in other "smart" watches. Users complain about the old firmware, the lack of the Heart Touch option, and also note the lack of multisport and the bicycle sensor. By the way, a very insulting flaw for many was the elimination of the vibrator function in the Polar M400. Feedback from fans of the Windows Phone system criticize the creators for the fact that there are no applications for this OS, while similar models of competitors actively learn this field.

Conclusion

The model wins against competitors in terms of the implementation of hardware stuffing. The potential of the watch is decent, but its developers have never fully used it. The functionality of the Polar M400 is significantly reduced compared to alternative products, and the gadget has lost its basic options.

Also suffers a web service, which had the opportunity to become a strong device, but it did not happen. Despite all the shortcomings, the model has a high-quality assembly, a reliable platform and a conveniently implemented interface. For those who are satisfied with the existing functionality, these watches can become a real find - especially given the rather modest price tag.