Month: October 2024

A great timepiece doesn’t just display the time—it elevates your look and makes you feel good. Smartwatches take this experience to another level by offering features that go beyond simple timekeeping. From tracking workouts to monitoring heart health, they bring a host of functionalities to your wrist. Whether you’re an Apple loyalist or an Android enthusiast, there’s a smartwatch out there to complement your phone and lifestyle. In this article, we break down the best smartwatches available today.

1. Apple Watch Series 10

The Apple Watch Series 10 (8/10, Our Recommends) pushes the boundaries of smartwatch design and functionality. While Apple markets it as an “all-new” design, it maintains the familiar look, but with some significant upgrades. The Series 10 is lighter and thinner, and sports a bigger display. Notably, the 46-mm model surpasses even the 49-mm Apple Watch Ultra 2 in screen size, offering a more comfortable and immersive experience.

Key improvements include faster charging and FDA-cleared sleep apnea tracking, a potentially life-saving feature. It continues to offer Apple’s hallmark health features like fall detection and electrocardiograms (ECG), making it an indispensable health tool. With third-party app support that no other brand can match, it’s the best option for iPhone owners. However, the Series 10 still retains its frustratingly short 18-hour battery life, which is something many users hoped Apple would improve. Nonetheless, if you’re in the Apple ecosystem, this is hands down the best smartwatch for you.

2. Google Pixel Watch 3

For Android users, the Google Pixel Watch 3 (8/10, Our Recommends) is a standout option. With a beautiful round design that contrasts with Apple’s square face, the Pixel Watch 3 combines style with robust health-tracking features. It provides accurate heart rate monitoring during workouts, excellent sleep tracking, and new life-saving features like Loss of Pulse detection, although this feature is currently available only in Europe.

The Pixel Watch 3 is also fitness-focused, with custom run recommendations and cardio load feedback, which tells you how hard your heart is working and whether it’s appropriate for your fitness level. While this feature isn’t perfect, it offers useful insights for fitness enthusiasts.

The 45-mm model offers better battery life, lasting up to 24 hours with the always-on display turned on. Integrated Google services, such as live previews from Nest cameras and voice control, add to the device’s functionality, making it a solid choice for those who want seamless smart home integration with their smartwatch.

3. Samsung Galaxy Watch7

Samsung continues to impress with its Galaxy Watch7, a stylish option with a circular face and refined design. The Watch7 includes advanced health-tracking features, such as Energy Score, which provides insight into how much energy you have each day, and sleep tracking with apnea detection. However, the apnea detection and some ECG features only work with Samsung phones, so non-Samsung users might miss out.

One downside is the battery life. Even with the always-on display turned off, the Watch7 struggles to last more than 24 hours. However, if you don’t mind managing battery life and want a well-rounded device for managing notifications, smart home devices, and health tracking, the Galaxy Watch7 is a feature-rich smartwatch that will not disappoint.

4. Garmin Vivomove Trend

Garmin’s Vivomove Trend (8/10, Our Recommends) is an elegant option for those who want a smartwatch without sacrificing style. It may not be as feature-rich as some of its competitors, but it covers all the essentials, including wireless charging, blood oxygen measurements, and sleep tracking. Garmin’s excellent fitness-tracking algorithms make it a reliable companion for those looking to monitor their health and activity levels without dealing with a bulky design.

The Vivomove Trend is especially attractive for fitness enthusiasts who value battery life over having the most high-tech features. With a battery life of up to five days, you won’t need to charge this smartwatch as often as some of its more advanced counterparts.

5. Fitbit Ace LTE

Smartwatches aren’t just for adults. The Fitbit Ace LTE (8/10, Our Recommends) is one of the best smartwatches designed specifically for kids. Fitbit has prioritized privacy and security, promising to delete children’s health data after 30 days and location data after 24 hours.

The Ace LTE comes with its own set of features designed for young users, such as the gamified Fitbit Arcade, where kids can achieve fitness goals through fun challenges. It also has built-in cellular connectivity for phone calls and messaging, without requiring a smartphone. This is a great way to introduce your child to smartwatches while ensuring that they stay safe and active.

6. CMF Watch Pro 2

Nothing’s sub-brand CMF Watch Pro 2 is an affordable yet powerful smartwatch. Priced under $100, it offers a minimalist design, making it one of the rare budget-friendly options that doesn’t feel cheap. With swappable straps and bezel options, it allows users to personalize the look while maintaining a premium feel.

Despite its low cost, the Watch Pro 2 delivers accurate heart rate and sleep tracking. Its step-counting might not be as precise as higher-end models, but it still manages to include a range of fitness features, including GPS. The battery life is also impressive, lasting up to 10 days on a single charge, making it perfect for those who need a reliable, affordable option.

FAQs: Best Smartwatches 2025

What features should I look for in a smartwatch?

• The most important features to consider are health and fitness tracking (heart rate monitor, sleep tracking, step counter), battery life, smartphone compatibility (iOS or Android), notifications (text, email, apps), GPS, water resistance, and design (size, weight, style).

Which smartwatch is best for iPhone users?

• The Apple Watch Series 10 is the top choice for iPhone users. It seamlessly integrates with the iOS ecosystem and offers comprehensive features, including health tracking, notifications, and access to a wide range of third-party apps.

What is the best smartwatch for Android users?

• Google’s Pixel Watch 3 is considered one of the best options for Android users. It offers accurate fitness tracking, customizable run features, and compatibility with Nest devices, along with a sleek design.

How long does a smartwatch battery last?

• Battery life varies by model and usage. For example, the Apple Watch Series 10 offers up to 18 hours of battery life, while the Google Pixel Watch 3 can last around 24 hours. Garmin’s Vivomove Trend can last up to 5 days, and CMF Watch Pro 2 can go up to 10 days on a single charge.

Can smartwatches monitor sleep and detect sleep apnea?

• Yes, many smartwatches offer advanced sleep tracking. The Apple Watch Series 10 and Samsung Galaxy Watch7 both include sleep apnea detection, while others like the Google Pixel Watch 3 and Garmin Vivomove Trend track sleep duration and quality.

Can I use a smartwatch without a smartphone?

• Many smartwatches, like the Samsung Galaxy Watch7 with LTE, allow for standalone use without a smartphone. You can receive calls, messages, and notifications directly on the watch. However, features may be limited compared to when paired with a smartphone.

Are there smartwatches for kids?

• Yes, the Fitbit Ace LTE is designed for kids. It offers fitness tracking, parental controls, and location sharing via Google Maps, making it a safe option for children without giving them a smartphone.

Are there budget-friendly smartwatches?

• Yes, the CMF Watch Pro 2 is a great budget option priced under $100. It offers good value with fitness tracking, notifications, and 10-day battery life, though some features like step count accuracy might not match more expensive models.

Can smartwatches track health metrics like heart rate and ECG?

• Yes, most modern smartwatches, including the Apple Watch Series 10, Google Pixel Watch 3, and Samsung Galaxy Watch7, have built-in heart rate monitors and can take electrocardiograms (ECG) to monitor heart health.

Can I customize my smartwatch?

• Many smartwatches, like the Apple Watch and CMF Watch Pro 2, allow for customization. You can change watch faces, swap straps, and sometimes even modify the bezel shape for a personalized look.

Are smartwatches waterproof?

• Most smartwatches are water-resistant, but the level varies. For example, the Apple Watch Series 10 and Samsung Galaxy Watch7 are designed to be worn while swimming or in the shower, but always check the water resistance rating before exposing your watch to water.

How do smartwatches handle notifications?

• Smartwatches receive notifications from your smartphone for calls, texts, emails, and apps. Some models allow you to reply directly from the watch, while others, like the CMF Watch Pro 2, only support basic responses like canned replies.

What’s the difference between a fitness tracker and a smartwatch?

• Fitness trackers focus on health and fitness data, like steps, heart rate, and sleep, with limited smart features. Smartwatches offer a broader range of capabilities, including fitness tracking, notifications, app support, voice assistants, and more.

Do smartwatches offer GPS functionality?

• Yes, many smartwatches, like the Google Pixel Watch 3 and Garmin Vivomove Trend, offer built-in GPS for tracking outdoor activities like running or cycling, and some even allow you to see maps directly on your wrist.

How do smartwatches handle privacy and data security?

• Leading brands like Apple, Google, and Fitbit have strict privacy policies. Fitbit, for instance, deletes children’s location data after 24 hours and health data after 30 days. Always review the privacy policies of the smartwatch manufacturer for detailed information.

Conclusion

Smartwatches are no longer just high-tech accessories—they’ve become essential tools for fitness, communication, and everyday convenience. Whether you’re an Apple loyalist, an Android user, or even shopping for your kids, there’s a smartwatch for every need. The Apple Watch Series 10 remains the top choice for iPhone users, while the Google Pixel Watch 3 stands out for Android users. Budget-conscious buyers will find great value in the CMF Watch Pro 2, while Garmin’s Vivomove Trend offers an elegant design with robust health-tracking capabilities. Lastly, the Fitbit Ace LTE provides peace of mind for parents who want to give their children the freedom of a smartwatch without compromising on safety. Our trusted sources wired