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Design is everything when it comes to smartwatches, and Asus did not disappoint. The ZenWatch is undeniably an attractive smartwatch. With the Moto 360 catching eyes for its classic circular style, and the Samsung Gear S for being curvy and rectangular, Asus chose a slightly different path. Rather than choosing round or square, Asus opted for both by rounding out the square's edges.
It's closer in looks to the Apple Watch and Pebble Time than the current Android Wear breeds. That is to say, the ticker is kind of blandly handsome, in a premium way, with a bezel in brushed steel - an Asus hallmark - and an attractive, comfy leather strap.
The bezel, in all honesty, is about the only big issue about the design of the ZenWatch, and utterly detracts from how lovely it looks. Instead of so much distracting bezel, it would have been nice if the screen were larger.
With the exception of the clasp, which feels a little wobbly, the ZenWatch is a solid, smart timepiece. The 22mm strap reminds me of the Gear S in terms of functionality, but feels much easier to put on because of the leather material. The Zenwatch's strap is also on par with the Moto 360's Horween leather, but seems more likely to scratch and crack over time from usage.
Though, you can switch out the leather for a metal band or any other type of 22mm strap, as Asus has made it extremely customizable. A swap is also extremely simple, thanks to the quick release pins attached to the lugs.
There's a power button on the back of the ZenWatch, which is an interesting but perhaps useless addition, since you can just swipe the screen for options. Fortunately, it's set in a way in which you can't accidentally press down on it. However, that means you have to jam your finger underneath to reach the switch, hence its triviality.
You'll also spot the gold charging connectors on the back of the watch, but there's no heart rate monitor. Rather it's been placed on the front, where you can touch any part of the metal frame to get a reading. It's an odd choice opposed to the usual green lights on the back of other smarwatches, but is easy enough to use. Both processes take just as long anyway, and the accuracy still remains a little questionable, but more on that later.
Comfort
For those with smaller wrists, the Asus smartwatch is probably the best you're going to get for now, in terms of comfort. It still snags on certain coat sleeves, but for the most part, remains unobtrusive and fairly weightless throughout the day.
The metallic back - stainless steel again - is smooth and comfortable against the skin. And because the watch is only 9.5mm thick, it doesn't feel too bulky on your wrist, like some smartwatches – that's a failing of the Moto 360, for me - and only weighs 75 grams.
