BoAt Lunar Discovery Smartwatch Review: A Budget Watch with Navigation

This boAt Lunar Discovery Smartwatch Review looks at a very affordable smartwatch that costs just ₹1,099 in India. The watch was launched in October 2024 by boAt, a popular Indian brand. It has a 1.39-inch round display, Bluetooth calling feature, and special turn-by-turn navigation powered by MapMyIndia. The watch runs on Crest+ OS and offers 7 days of battery life.

The boAt Lunar Discovery targets people who want smartwatch features without spending much money. It has 700+ sports modes, heart rate monitoring, SpO2 tracking, and IP67 water resistance.

Launch Date: October 25, 2024
Current Price: ₹1,099 (Amazon)
Best For: Budget buyers wanting basic smartwatch features
Main Feature: Turn-by-turn navigation with MapMyIndia
Overall Score: 6.8/10 – Good Budget Option
Quick Summary: The boAt Lunar Discovery offers excellent value at ₹1,099 with 7-day battery life, Bluetooth calling, and navigation. But it has a basic TFT display instead of AMOLED and no built-in GPS.

Design & Build Quality

The boAt Lunar Discovery has a round case design that measures 44.0 x 45.9 x 12.3 mm. According to the specifications, it weighs just 45 grams, making it very light on the wrist. The case uses an aluminum alloy middle frame with a plastic bottom. This combination keeps costs low while maintaining decent build quality.

The specifications show the watch comes with silicon and metal strap options. The straps are removable and replaceable, so you can change them easily. The watch has a functional rotary crown (side button) along with touch screen controls. This gives you two ways to navigate through menus.

Based on the technical specifications, the watch has IP67 water and dust resistance. This means it can handle water splashes, sweat, and dust. You can wear it while washing hands or in light rain. But the IP67 rating means you should not wear it while swimming or taking a shower.

The watch comes in six colors: Active Black, Brown, Active Blue, Cherry Blossom, Mint Green, and Metal Black. The specifications indicate standard glass protects the front screen (not Gorilla Glass or sapphire).

Display Specifications

The boAt Lunar Discovery Smartwatch Review reveals a 1.39-inch TFT LCD display. According to the specifications, the resolution is 240 x 240 pixels. This gives you clear enough visuals for checking time, notifications, and fitness data.

The display type is TFT LCD, not AMOLED. Based on the specifications, TFT displays use more battery power than AMOLED but cost less to make. The specifications don’t mention the exact brightness level, but users report good outdoor visibility.

The touch type is multi-touch according to the specifications. The specifications don’t confirm if always-on display is available. The screen responds well to touch inputs based on user reviews.

The 1.39-inch size makes the display easy to read. The 240 x 240 resolution creates sharp enough text and icons for daily use. The round shape looks like a traditional watch.

Health Monitoring

The boAt Lunar Discovery specifications include an optical PPG sensor for heart rate monitoring. According to the specifications, the watch tracks your heart rate continuously throughout the day and night. This helps you understand your heart patterns during rest and activity.

The specifications confirm SpO2 (blood oxygen) monitoring. Based on the technical specifications, you can measure blood oxygen levels on-demand or through spot checks. The watch doesn’t monitor SpO2 continuously like some expensive watches.

For sleep tracking, the specifications show the watch monitors your sleep quality and hours slept each night. According to the specifications, it tracks different sleep stages. The watch provides sleep insights through the boAt Crest app.

The specifications include stress monitoring features. The watch tracks your stress levels throughout the day. According to the specifications, it also includes an energy score tracking feature that shows your overall energy levels.

The specifications mention guided breathing exercises. Based on the breathing mode specifications, the watch has breathe training mode and relax mode to help you calm down.

The specifications confirm NO ECG feature. The watch also does NOT track skin temperature. These advanced sensors are missing at this price point.

Fitness Tracking

The step counter specifications show a built-in pedometer that tracks daily steps. According to the specifications, the watch counts your steps automatically and shows progress toward your daily goal.

The specifications include calorie burn tracking based on your activity level. The watch calculates calories burned during workouts and daily movement. According to the specifications, distance measurement helps track how far you walk or run.

The specifications don’t mention VO2 max estimation. This advanced fitness metric is not available on the boAt Lunar Discovery. The specifications indicate workout auto-detection for some activities.

This boAt Lunar Discovery Smartwatch Review highlights the impressive 700+ sports modes available. According to the specifications, these modes cover activities like running, cycling, swimming, yoga, HIIT, dancing, and many more.

The GPS specifications show “Connected GPS” only. This means the watch must connect to your phone’s GPS to track routes. Based on the specifications, the watch does NOT have built-in GPS. You need to carry your phone during outdoor activities for accurate location tracking.

The specifications confirm the watch includes an accelerometer (G-sensor) and gyroscope. These sensors help track movement and position during workouts. According to the specifications, there’s NO barometer (for altitude) or compass.

For swimming, the IP67 rating specifications indicate the watch can handle water splashes and sweat. But based on the technical specifications, IP67 is NOT suitable for swimming laps. The watch can track swimming workouts only if you take it off or use it very carefully.

The specifications mention workout metrics tracked during activities. The watch records duration, calories burned, heart rate, and basic activity data. According to the specifications, route tracking requires phone GPS connection.

The specifications don’t mention recovery time suggestions or training load analysis. These advanced features are missing from this budget watch.

The boAt Lunar Discovery runs on Crest+ OS, according to the operating system specifications. This is boAt’s proprietary (own) operating system. The specifications show the watch works with Android 7.0+ and iOS 14.0+ smartphones.

Notifications and Communication

The notification specifications confirm call alerts, SMS/messaging alerts, and app notifications. According to the specifications, you receive notifications from WhatsApp, Instagram, Gmail, and other apps on your wrist.

For Bluetooth calling, the specifications show built-in HD speaker and microphone. Based on the Bluetooth 5.3 specifications, you can make and receive calls directly from the watch. The specifications indicate you can save up to 20 contacts for quick calling.

The specifications confirm quick reply options with predefined messages. You can reply to messages using preset responses. According to the specifications, you cannot type custom replies.

Smart Controls

The music control specifications show play/pause and volume control features. You can control music on your phone from the watch. The specifications confirm find my phone feature to locate your smartphone.

The specifications include remote camera shutter control. You can click photos from your phone using the watch as a remote. According to the specifications, the watch supports voice assistant (type not specified).

Special Features

The boAt Lunar Discovery Smartwatch Review must mention the unique turn-by-turn navigation feature. According to the specifications, this uses MapMyIndia integration. The watch shows directions, ETA, and turn-by-turn guidance on your wrist without needing to check your phone.

The QR Tray specifications let you store frequently used QR codes. According to the specifications, you can save QR codes for payments, metro tickets, or digital signatures. This makes scanning faster and easier.

The Emergency SOS specifications confirm this safety feature. By pressing and holding a button, the watch can alert your emergency contacts when you need help.

The specifications don’t support third-party app installation. There’s no app store for downloading new apps. The specifications confirm OTA (over-the-air) updates via the companion app.

The battery specifications show a 260 mAh lithium polymer battery. According to the official specifications, the watch provides up to 7 days of battery life with standard use (without Bluetooth calling).

Expected battery life based on specifications:

Without Bluetooth Calling: The 260 mAh capacity specifications indicate up to 7 days of runtime. This includes normal use with notifications, step tracking, and occasional heart rate checks.

With Bluetooth Calling: According to the specifications, battery life drops to about 4 days when using Bluetooth calling features regularly.

With GPS Active: The connected GPS specifications mean the watch uses your phone’s GPS. This drains both watch and phone batteries. According to usage reports, expect 2-3 days with frequent GPS use.

Normal Usage: The specifications suggest most users get 5-6 days of real-world battery life with moderate use.

Heavy Usage: Based on user reviews, heavy users with many Bluetooth calls and notifications get about 3-4 days.

The charging method specifications show magnetic charging cable. The specifications confirm fast charging support, though the exact wattage isn’t specified. According to user reports, the watch charges fully in about 2 hours.

The specifications mention battery saver modes including DND (Do Not Disturb) mode and various power saving settings. These help extend battery life when needed.

The 7-day battery life specification is excellent for a budget smartwatch. Many competitors in this price range offer only 3-5 days.

The processor specifications don’t mention the exact chipset model or brand. According to the specifications, CPU cores and clock speed are “not specified.” The specifications also list GPU as “not specified.”

The RAM and storage specifications show both RAM and internal storage as “not specified.” The specifications confirm no expandable storage option.

Based on user reviews and the Crest+ OS specifications, the watch performs well for basic tasks. The interface is simple and easy to navigate. According to user feedback, the touch response is good but occasionally shows slight lag.

The boAt Lunar Discovery Smartwatch Review notes that the watch handles notifications, calls, and fitness tracking without problems. The specifications indicate the functional rotary crown helps navigate menus smoothly.

The companion app specifications confirm the boAt Crest App for Android 7.0+ and iOS 14.0+. According to the specifications, this app syncs health data, updates software, and manages watch settings.

The specifications mention integration with Strava, Google Fit, and Apple Health. This lets you sync your fitness data across different platforms.

The pre-installed apps specifications include turn-by-turn navigation (MapMyIndia), QR Tray, Emergency SOS, Weather, Alarm, Timer, Stopwatch, and Games.

The OTA updates specifications confirm you can update the watch software through the companion app. This ensures you get new features and bug fixes.

Sensors

The sensor specifications list these sensors:

• Accelerometer (G-sensor): YES – Tracks movement and steps
• Gyroscope: YES – Detects orientation and rotation
• Heart Rate Sensor (PPG Optical): YES – Monitors heart rate continuously
• SpO2 Sensor: YES – Measures blood oxygen levels
• Barometer/Altimeter: NO – Not available for altitude tracking
• Compass: NO – Not available for direction finding
• Ambient Light Sensor: Not specified in documentation
• Stress Monitor: YES – Tracks stress levels
• Energy Score Tracking: YES – Shows overall energy

According to the specifications, the sensor list is basic but covers essential health tracking needs for a budget watch.

Connectivity

The connectivity specifications show:

Bluetooth: Version 5.3 – This is the latest Bluetooth version providing stable, energy-efficient connection to your phone.

Wi-Fi: NO – The specifications confirm no Wi-Fi connectivity. The watch connects only through Bluetooth.

GPS: Connected GPS only – The specifications indicate the watch uses your phone’s GPS, not built-in GPS.

NFC: YES – The specifications show NFC support, though specific payment features aren’t detailed.

Cellular/LTE: NO – According to the specifications, the watch has no SIM card slot or cellular connectivity.

ANT+: NO – Not supported for connecting to ANT+ fitness devices.

The Bluetooth 5.3 specifications provide reliable connection within about 10-15 meters of your phone. The specifications indicate the watch must stay connected to your phone for most features to work.

The customization specifications highlight the DIY Watch Face Studio. According to the specifications, this feature lets you create custom watch faces using your own photos, themes, and designs.

The specifications don’t mention the exact number of built-in watch faces. Based on user reviews, the watch comes with many pre-installed watch faces to choose from.

The specifications confirm custom watch face support through the DIY Watch Face Studio. You can personalize the watch face to match your style, mood, or outfit. According to the specifications, you can use favorite photos as watch face backgrounds.

The third-party watch face specifications aren’t clearly mentioned. The specifications don’t confirm if you can download watch faces from outside sources.

The always-on display specifications show “not specified” status. Based on user reports, always-on display may or may not be available depending on the watch face selected.

The widget customization specifications aren’t detailed. The specifications focus more on watch face personalization than widget management.

The strap compatibility specifications show standard strap changing mechanism. According to the specifications, both silicon and metal strap options are available. The strap width isn’t specified but appears to be standard 20mm or 22mm based on the watch size.

The available strap materials specifications include silicone (rubber) and metal options. The specifications show six color variants: Active Black, Brown, Active Blue, Cherry Blossom, Mint Green, and Metal Black.

Design & Build: 7/10 – Light, comfortable with IP67 protection
Display Quality: 6/10 – Clear TFT display but not AMOLED
Health Tracking: 7/10 – Good basic health monitoring
Fitness Features: 7/10 – Excellent 700+ sports modes
Smart Features: 7.5/10 – Great navigation and Bluetooth calling
Battery Life: 8/10 – Excellent 7-day battery life
Value for Money: 8.5/10 – Outstanding value at ₹1,099

Best For:

Main Purpose: Budget buyers wanting navigation and calling features
Also Good For: Fitness beginners tracking basic workouts and health
Can Work For: People needing a backup smartwatch with good battery

This boAt Lunar Discovery Smartwatch Review finds the watch works well for:

• People buying their first smartwatch
• Users wanting turn-by-turn navigation on their wrist
• Fitness beginners tracking steps, heart rate, and basic workouts
• Anyone needing Bluetooth calling without spending much
• Users who value battery life (7 days is excellent)
• People who prefer round watch designs

The specifications show the watch delivers great value for ₹1,099. The turn-by-turn navigation with MapMyIndia is unique at this price. The 7-day battery life beats many competitors.

Not Good For:

Display lovers – TFT LCD is not as vibrant as AMOLED
Serious athletes – No built-in GPS, only connected GPS
Swimming – IP67 is not suitable for swimming
Advanced health tracking – No ECG, temperature, or advanced sensors
App enthusiasts – No app store for installing third-party apps

The boAt Lunar Discovery Smartwatch Review comparison shows how it competes with other watches in the ₹1,000-₹1,500 price range.

Other budget smartwatches might offer:

• AMOLED displays (more vibrant colors)
• Built-in GPS (no phone needed)
• Better water resistance for swimming
• More advanced health sensors

The boAt Lunar Discovery specifications show these advantages:

• Turn-by-turn MapMyIndia navigation (unique feature)
• Excellent 7-day battery life
• Bluetooth 5.3 calling
• 700+ sports modes (more than most)
• QR Tray and Emergency SOS features
• Very affordable ₹1,099 price

The main weaknesses compared to competitors:

• TFT display instead of AMOLED
• No built-in GPS (needs phone connection)
• IP67 only (not suitable for swimming like IP68 or 5ATM)
• No advanced sensors (ECG, temperature)

According to user reviews, close competitors include Fire-Boltt Ninja Call Pro and Noise ColorFit Pro 5. These alternatives may have AMOLED displays but lack the MapMyIndia navigation feature.

The price-to-features ratio analysis shows the boAt Lunar Discovery wins on battery life, navigation, and overall value. Based on the specifications, you sacrifice display quality and built-in GPS for better battery and unique navigation.

The boAt Lunar Discovery Smartwatch Review pricing shows ₹1,099 is extremely competitive. According to the specifications, you get Bluetooth calling, navigation, 700+ sports modes, and 7-day battery for about the price of a basic fitness band.

The price has remained stable since the October 2024 launch. Based on the introductory offer, this might be a limited-time price. The MRP of ₹8,999 seems inflated for marketing purposes.

Compared to other budget smartwatches, the ₹1,099 price delivers outstanding value. The specifications show features that usually cost ₹2,000-₹3,000 in other brands.

The turn-by-turn navigation feature alone is worth the price for people who need directions on their wrist. The 7-day battery life saves you from daily charging hassles.

Good Points:

Turn-by-Turn Navigation – The MapMyIndia integration provides real-time directions on your wrist. This unique feature at ₹1,099 helps you navigate new places without checking your phone. The watch shows turn-by-turn directions, ETA, and route guidance.

Excellent 7-Day Battery Life – The 260 mAh battery lasts up to 7 days with normal use. Even with Bluetooth calling, you get 4 days of use. This beats most competitors that need charging every 2-3 days.

Budget-Friendly Bluetooth 5.3 Calling – Make and receive calls directly from your wrist using the HD speaker and microphone. Bluetooth 5.3 provides stable connection. You can save 20 contacts for quick calling.

700+ Sports Modes – The massive selection of sports and activity modes covers almost any workout. From yoga to cycling to dancing, the watch tracks all activities.

IP67 Protection – The water and dust resistance handles sweat, splashes, and daily use. You can wear it in light rain or during workouts without worry.

QR Tray Feature – Store and access frequently used QR codes right from your wrist. This makes payments, metro tickets, and digital signatures faster and easier.

Emergency SOS – The safety feature alerts your emergency contacts when you need help by pressing and holding a button.

Lightweight Design – At just 45 grams, the watch feels very light and comfortable for all-day wear.

Bad Points:

Basic TFT Display, Not AMOLED – The TFT LCD screen works fine but lacks the vibrant colors, deep blacks, and punch of AMOLED displays. Text is clear enough, but the visual experience isn’t premium.

No Built-In GPS – The watch only has connected GPS, meaning you must carry your phone during outdoor activities for route tracking. This limits independence during runs or cycles.

Limited Health Sensors – No ECG for heart health, no temperature sensor for fever tracking, no advanced health monitoring. You get basic heart rate and SpO2 only.

IP67 Not for Swimming – The IP67 rating handles splashes and sweat but isn’t suitable for swimming laps or water sports. Swimmers need IP68 or 5ATM rating.

No App Store – You cannot install third-party apps. The watch is limited to pre-installed features only.

Connected Features Need Phone – Most smart features require Bluetooth connection to your phone. The watch alone offers limited functionality.