Overview
Polar has released its latest sports smartwatch, the Street X. Designed as an urban sports watch tailored for city environments, the device aims to deliver a tough, lightweight build ready for daily training.
The basic design and poorly implemented user interface stand in contrast to sleeker alternatives on the market. While the Street X offers a 50m water rating and military-grade durability, this comes at the expense of a more refined aesthetic.
Fortunately, the bright 1.28-inch AMOLED display covered by Gorilla Glass performs well, and the onboard GPS tracking keeps up with more expensive competitors.
Solid performance continues with mapping and route navigation tools, although GPS tracking can take over a minute to establish a signal, which can prove frustrating.
Based on the source review findings, the Street X struggles to compete with dedicated running ecosystems like Garmin when it comes to advanced training features.
Pricing
The watch is priced at $249.99 USD / £219 UK / $429.99 AUS.
It sits at a slightly higher price point than expected given the utilized materials and specifications.
Several cheaper alternatives exist from more established brands in the wearable market.
The Polar Street X positions itself alongside the brand's cheaper Pacer range rather than the premium Vantage and Grit series. It is available in three colorways: Night Black, Snow White, and Forest Green.
Alternative options include the Amazfit Active 3 Premium, which features an AMOLED display and onboard GPS at a lower price point.
For dedicated fans of the ecosystem, the slightly pricier Garmin Forerunner series offers strong tracking accuracy as an alternative choice.
Value score 4/5
Build Quality
Chunky shockproof design with a budget feel
Fiddly strap but a comfortable fit overall
Awkwardly designed user interface elements
The watch features a classic shockproof configuration with a five-button layout. However, accessing certain buttons can prove awkward for left-wrist wearers, and required button-hold durations can feel overly long.
Both the case and bezel utilize bio-based plastic from renewable biomass sources. Durability features include a 50-meter water resistance rating and MIL-STD-810H testing to withstand environmental extremes.
The 1.28-inch AMOLED display feels somewhat restrictive due to an interface that fails to utilize the full screen effectively.
The 416px resolution delivers a clear image protected by Gorilla Glass, complemented by touch functionality and an ambient light sensor.
The strap features an awkward catch design, though the watch remains comfortable to wear over long periods once secured.
Tracking Capabilities
Extensive training and health tracking tools
Onboard navigation features including route guidance
Comprehensive smart utilities for daily use
The device includes Training Load Pro to monitor physical strain alongside customizable running programs for events ranging from 5Ks to marathons.
Health tracking covers continuous heart rate, step count, and a skin temperature sensor intended to assist with wellness and cycle tracking insights.
Mapping tools include built-in GPS, route guidance, breadcrumb trails, elevation profiles, and return-to-start functionality, alongside an altimeter and compass.
Performance & Battery
Accurate GPS tracking despite slow signal lock times
Detailed post-exercise metrics for athletes
Suitable for general training, though serious runners may want more advanced ecosystems
The source review indicates a mixed experience, combining solid tracking features with occasional navigation hurdles within the interface.
While GPS signal acquisition can take over a minute, tracking proves accurate once connected.
The watch supports over 170 sports profiles, though navigating through menus during active sessions can feel cumbersome.
Basic mapping tools and turn-by-turn directions make route navigation straightforward.
Post-workout metrics provide deep insights into pace, cadence, and speed zones, which can be reviewed directly or analyzed more easily within the companion smartphone application.
Optical heart rate measurements and heart rate variability align closely with dedicated tracking hardware.
Smart features include notifications, weather updates, and music playback controls for connected smartphones.
A built-in LED flashlight is included, though illumination levels remain limited compared to standalone phone lights.
Battery performance reaches up to 10 days of general use or 43 hours of continuous GPS tracking, with full recharges taking approximately 70 minutes.
Buy it if...
You are looking for an affordable and accurate GPS tracker.
The tracking performance offers strong reliability relative to the price point.
You prefer a shockproof design and do not mind a plastic aesthetic.
The device provides a robust build despite its budget finish.
Don't buy it if...
You prioritize a polished, well-implemented design.
The user interface lacks refinement and smooth navigation.
You want a sleek smartwatch suitable for formal or casual daily wear.
More attractive alternatives exist on the market for similar investments.
Also consider
Amazfit Active 3 Premium
A budget alternative featuring a bright AMOLED display and reliable GPS tracking.
Garmin Forerunner series
Offers highly rated, accurate tracking solutions for runners within a dedicated sporting ecosystem.
