The itel Smart Watch 023 (ISW-023), also known as the Storm Ultra, is a budget-friendly smartwatch designed for users who want essential features without breaking the bank.
With a 2.02-inch HD display, IP68 water resistance, and a 7-day battery life, it promises solid performance for daily use. But does it deliver? This in-depth review covers everything you need to know—from design and features to real user experiences.
Design & Build: Rugged, Stylish, and Lightweight
The itel ISW-023 features a rectangular metal frame with a scratch-resistant crystal screen, giving it a sleek and durable look. Available in colors like black, blue, and champagne gold, it caters to both casual and semi-formal styles.
- Display: 2.02” HD TFT screen (240×286 pixels)
- Material: Metal case with soft silicone strap
- Weight: Lightweight at just 49g
- Water Resistance: IP68 rated (safe for handwashing, rain, and light swimming)
Users praise its comfortable fit and premium feel for the price. The larger digital crown makes navigation easier, and the overall build feels sturdy enough for daily wear.
Key Features: What You Get for the Price
The Storm Ultra packs a surprising number of features for its budget tag:
1. Health & Fitness Tracking
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Continuous tracking with real-time alerts
- Sleep Tracking: Monitors sleep stages (deep, light, REM)
- SpO2 Monitoring: Measures blood oxygen levels
- 100+ Sports Modes: Includes running, cycling, swimming, football, and more
- Step & Calorie Counter: Tracks daily activity goals
While not medical-grade, most users find the data accurate enough for general wellness tracking. However, some Reddit users note that nap detection can be inconsistent compared to premium brands.
2. Smart Notifications & Connectivity
- Call & Message Alerts: Displays WhatsApp, SMS, and call notifications
- Bluetooth Calling: Make and receive calls directly from the watch
- AI Voice Assistant: Hands-free commands for calls and reminders
- Find My Phone: Locate your phone with a tap
The i-Pulse app (available on Android and iOS) syncs data seamlessly and allows customization of watch faces and settings.
3. Battery Life & Charging
- Battery Capacity: 300mAh
- Usage Time: Up to 7 days with moderate use
- Standby Time: Up to 30 days
- Charging: Magnetic cable (full charge in ~2 hours)
One Jumia reviewer confirmed: “Battery life is great—1 week per charge if you reduce screen brightness.”
User Experience: Real Feedback from Buyers
On Jumia Nigeria, the ISW-023 holds a 4.2/5 rating from over 490 verified buyers. Here’s what users are saying:
✅ Pros
- “Lightweight and stylish—perfect for daily wear.”
- “Battery lasts a full week with notifications on.”
- “Love the 100+ sports modes—great for gym and runs.”
- “Bluetooth calling works smoothly.”
❌ Cons
- “Display started fading after 3 months.” (Amazon India review)
- “App could be more polished—occasional sync issues.”
- “Heart rate accuracy drops during intense workouts.”
- “No GPS—relies on phone for location tracking.”
Some users reported display issues after a few months, suggesting potential durability concerns with long-term use.
Performance: Smooth for Basic Tasks
Powered by Bluetooth 5.3, the ISW-023 connects quickly and stays stable. The touchscreen is responsive, and navigation through menus is smooth.
- Gaming: Comes with 5 built-in games (like Snake and Tic-Tac-Toe)
- Extras: Flashlight, calculator, drink reminder, remote camera control
- Customization: Multiple watch faces via the i-Pulse app
It’s not designed for heavy multitasking, but for notifications, fitness tracking, and calls, it performs reliably.
Price & Availability (2026)
The itel Smart Watch 023 is priced competitively:
- Nigeria: ₦21,000 – ₦23,000
- India: ₹1,899 – ₹2,499 (~$23–$30)
- Available on: Jumia, Amazon, official itel stores
It includes a 12-month warranty via Carlcare, adding peace of mind.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy It?
The itel ISW-023 Storm Ultra is an excellent choice for:
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking a feature-rich smartwatch
- Fitness beginners who want basic health tracking
- Students and young professionals needing notifications and style
✅ Buy if you want:
- Long battery life
- Bluetooth calling
- Water resistance and durability
- Affordable price with premium look
❌ Avoid if you need:
- GPS tracking
- Medical-grade health sensors
- Premium app ecosystem (like Apple or Samsung)
Rating: 4.0 / 5
Bottom Line: The itel Smart Watch 023 delivers great value for under $30. While it has minor flaws in long-term durability and app polish, its design, battery life, and core features make it a standout in the budget smartwatch market.
