TL;DR
Netatmo's Weather Station Gen 2 adds UV and pollen sensors, offering comprehensive indoor/outdoor environmental data in a sleek, compact design. While build quality is solid, it suffers from outdated tech like Micro-USB and a lack of 5GHz Wi-Fi. The biggest headache is a problematic Apple Home app integration that can create installation loops, requiring tech support to fix. Accessories like the rain gauge also had setup issues. Once it finally works, the data is excellent, but these significant software and hardware hurdles make it hard to recommend without reservations. Curious about whether the impressive data justifies the setup pain? Read the full review!
During an early June visit to Denmark this year (2025), I had the opportunity to preview the Weather Station Gen 2 from Netatmo. This updated version introduces UV light and pollen level readings, which are valuable new parameters, particularly for outdoor professionals and individuals susceptible to pollen allergies.
Features and Measurements
Similar to its predecessor, the station measures outdoor air pressure, temperature, and humidity. The indoor module monitors the internal environment, offering insights and suggestions for improvement. It displays temperature, sound levels (in decibels), and carbon dioxide levels, allowing users to quickly assess their indoor air quality and identify areas requiring attention.
Design and Placement
Upon initial observation in Denmark, the units proved to be significantly more compact than anticipated. This reduced size facilitates flexible indoor placement of the sensor module. Its stylish and sleek design ensures it integrates discreetly into any environment. While the outdoor module can be mounted directly, we advise acquiring the optional shield for enhanced protection.
Accessories and Cloud Storage
Additional accessories, such as the rain gauge and wind gauge, are available for users seeking comprehensive environmental data. These expand the station’s capabilities to provide a complete overview of both indoor and outdoor conditions. All collected data is securely stored in the cloud, with no subscription required for access. However, it’s important to note that the system relies on an active internet connection; data may be interrupted or lost during network outages.
Technical Shortcomings
The build quality is commendable, featuring a robust metal casing and a slim design. However, closer inspection revealed several technical limitations. Primarily, it utilizes Micro-USB ports rather than the current industry standard, USB-C, which feels outdated. Furthermore, it lacks support for Wi-Fi 5 GHz, necessitating reliance on the 2.4 GHz band. The use of standard AAA batteries for the various modules also presents an antiquated approach, though it does ensure continuous data collection without the need for frequent charging and module relocation.
Problems with the Home App
The most significant issue encountered stems from a new feature of the Weather Station Gen 2: its mandatory integration with the Apple Home app (for iOS users). While Home app connectivity is typically a benefit, in this case, it poses installation challenges. Should an installation issue occur, a duplicate or ‘ghost’ instance of the device may appear in the Home app. Concurrently, the Netatmo app attempts to install the legitimate device but fails, as it detects a pre-existing installation. The Netatmo app, unfortunately, does not communicate this conflict, leading users into a problematic loop that can only be resolved by manually removing the ‘ghost’ device from the Home app. This required intervention from technical support to rectify. Such a persistent and unclear installation flaw is a notable drawback for an otherwise well-designed product.
More Installation Problems
Even after resolving the initial setup, further complications arose during the installation of the rain gauge and wind gauge. The application initially failed to load the necessary installation interface for these accessories.
When Everything Works
Despite these initial challenges, the system ultimately became fully operational, delivering clear and highly accurate data. As an individual sensitive to atmospheric changes, I find the real-time air pressure readings particularly useful for anticipating conditions that may impact my health, such as migraines related to low pressure fronts.
Summary and Verdict
In summary, the Weather Station Gen 2 from Netatmo offers a compelling experience once fully operational. Its stylish, sleek design ensures it integrates discreetly into any environment. The accompanying application is intuitive and functionally robust, without inherent technical flaws. However, the product is significantly hampered by several software issues requiring resolution, notably the inconsistent integration with Apple Home during initial setup. Additionally, certain hardware choices, such as the persistence of Micro-USB instead of USB-C, feel anachronistic, especially for a product positioned at a premium price point compared to many competitors. While the system operates flawlessly once configured, these substantial setup hurdles and dated hardware choices prevent a full recommendation, despite its potential.
Netatmo provided the review units for this evaluation. Product providers have no editorial influence on our tests; our reviews are always written independently with our readers and consumers in mind.
