113: Why I Quit the Apple Watch After 10 Years…

After nearly a decade of wearing an Apple Watch, I finally ditched it. Not because I stopped caring about health data, but because I realized the device was working against the simplicity and freedom I value. 

Plus, no matter how many times I toggled it into airplane mode, the Bluetooth stayed on — meaning constant EMF exposure right over a major artery. 

Add to that the Apple Watch's short battery life and the never-ending need to recharge it, and it started to feel like a net negative in my life. 

And at the end of the day, I decided I just didn't want another tether disguised as technology.

For a few months, I went back to a simple analog watch — quiet, timeless, and disconnected. But I soon came to miss a few basic tools that actually make life easier, like a reliable timer, a stopwatch, and subtle notifications when my phone's on silent.

So I began searching for an Apple Watch replacement with just the right (limited) set of features. And the device I settled on is the Amazfit Balance 2, which runs nearly two weeks on a single charge, has a clean AMOLED display, and lets me turn Bluetooth and Wi-Fi completely off when I want to disconnect.

After using it for a few months, I've come to see it as striking a perfect balance between tech and minimalism. I still get my sunrise and sunset times, my recovery data, and a timer when I need one — but without the invisible leash. 

If you've struggled with finding that same balance between health tracking and digital overload, this episode might help you rethink what you wear on your wrist.

Learn more:

Shop the Amazfit Balance 2 here: https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-8310328-15735909

No subscriptions, 21-day battery life, and full EMF control — the perfect balance between tech and simplicity.

WHOOP vs Apple Watch for Fitness and Sleep Tracking: https://michaelkummer.com/whoop-vs-apple-watch/

Best Apple Watch Sports Bands: https://michaelkummer.com/apple-watch-sport-bands/ 

In this episode:
00:00 Intro

00:07 The Apple Watch experience

01:19 Issues with the Apple Watch

03:09 Switching to an analog watch

05:06 Discovering the Amazfit Balance 2

06:55 Amazfit features and benefits

12:33 Conclusion and final thoughts

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[Medical Disclaimer]

The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health.

[Affiliate Disclaimer]

I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you'd like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code.

#Amazfit #Balance2 #Applewatch