The best smartwatches can do almost everything your smartphone can – health, fitness, communication, and safety features that Seiko, Citizen, or Casio can’t match. So, adding a high-end smartwatch to your collection is probably the most practical tech investment you can make.
As part of our 2024 Watch Guide, we reviewed the top smartwatches available. After months of testing, we narrowed it down to the top 2 – Apple Watch Series 10 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, depending on your smartphone ecosystem.
While most of our recommendations are under $500 we also have some great options under $200.
Best Smartwatch Overall for Apple Users: Apple Watch Series 10
If you’re an iPhone user looking for a smartwatch, the Apple Watch is your best bet. While there are other smartwatches that are compatible with iOS, the seamless integration of the Apple experience across devices and platforms has made it the dominant smartwatch in the US smartphone market. If you want to be able to communicate through your watch, use Siri, track fitness and health metrics, and control other devices within the Apple ecosystem, you’ll find the Apple Watch offers the best experience. If you have an Android phone, there’s little reason to buy an Apple Watch, as you would miss out on most of these features even though some may still work.
Apple Watch Series 10 Features
The Series 10 Apple Watch isn’t a major upgrade from the Series 9 but it does have a larger and thinner display and better underwater capabilities. The standout features remain:
Accurate GPS: GPS is spot on for outdoor activities like running, cycling, and hiking. You can track your routes and distances with confidence.
Better Maps: The Apple Maps app on the watch is more user-friendly than most others, with turn-by-turn directions and real-time updates, perfect for navigation on the go.
Health and Fitness Tracking: The Series 10 still excels at health and fitness tracking with features like heart rate monitoring, ECG, blood oxygen monitoring, and various workout modes. Whether you’re hitting the gym or going for a walk, you can stay on top of your fitness goals with the Apple Watch.
Apple Ecosystem Integration: The integration with other Apple devices is a big plus. You can get notifications, respond to messages and control music playback from your wrist. Plus, Apple Pay and Apple Wallet make transactions super easy.
Battery Life
But one of the biggest downsides is still the battery life; you’ll need to charge it daily even for light use. This isn’t unique to Apple as most smartwatches drain the battery quickly, but for those used to analog or sports watches that can last weeks or even years on a single charge, it can be a bit frustrating.
To mitigate this, consider setting a charging routine – perhaps charge it while you shower or during your morning coffee. That way, you can make sure it’s charged for the day without the hassle of running out of battery.
Budget Options
If you don’t need the latest model, you can save some cash by looking at previous versions of the Apple Watch. The Apple Watch Series 9 isn’t much of a downgrade and will save you around $100. Just weigh the savings against the benefits of future-proofing with the newer hardware of the Series 10.
Customization and Style
The Apple Watch Series 10 also has customization options, so you can choose from various watch faces, bands, and materials. Whether you want a sporty look with a silicone band or a more elegant look with a stainless steel strap, there’s an option for you. This level of customization means your watch will not only work well but also look good.
SIZE: 42mm, 46mm
WEIGHT: 29.3 to 41.7 grams
STRAP: Silicone/fluoroelastomer, stainless steel, textile
Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a busy professional, or just someone who likes to stay connected, the Apple Watch Series 10 is for you and will take your smartwatch experience to the next level.
Best Smartwatch for Android Users: Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is the best smartwatch for Android users with the latest Wear OS update. One of its most loved features is the return of the rotating bezel control so you can scroll through menus without the hassle of small buttons, a common problem with many smartwatches.
This latest version of Samsung’s flagship watch has a bigger battery, which is a nice improvement. But that’s offset by a bigger and brighter screen. While battery life still beats most Apple Watches, if you tend to forget to charge your devices, you might want to look at previous versions or other models with longer battery life.
With the latest Wear OS, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic has access to thousands of third-party apps on the Google Play Store, so you can customize your smartwatch experience with apps that fit your lifestyle, whether for fitness tracking, productivity, or entertainment.
Key Specs
SIZE: 43mm
WEIGHT: 33 grams
STRAP OPTIONS: Hybrid Leather, Sport, Extreme Sport, Fabric
Best Hybrid Smartwatch: Withings ScanWatch Horizon
The smartwatch explosion of the past decade has made them an accessory again, but with the focus on tech, the style has taken a backseat to features. Legacy watch brands like Citizen and Montblanc have tried to enter the smartwatch market but failed. Fashion-focused smartwatches from brands like Apple and Garmin won’t appeal to many men.
Enter the Withings ScanWatch Horizon—a dive watch-inspired hybrid that looks like a classic men’s watch and has basic health and fitness tracking.
A Style Alternative
You could swap your Rolex for a Garmin every time you work out, but that’s easier said than done. The shift to continuous health monitoring means removing your smartwatch can break your data collection. The Horizon doesn’t have all the features of modern health and fitness smartwatches; it doesn’t have on-board GPS. So, if you want to track your route during runs or rides, you’ll have to use your phone.
But it has the basics: heart rate monitor, step counter, sleep tracking, and altimeter. You can’t answer phone calls or read news notifications on this watch.
Personal Ideas
While the ScanWatch Horizon doesn’t have all the features of a full smartwatch, I like its classic design and simplicity. For those who want to look polished, this watch is a great option. Here are my ideas on how to use it:
Everyday Wear: I wear the ScanWatch Horizon every day, whether I’m at the office or out for a casual dinner. It looks great from day to night, so it’s a great addition to any wardrobe.
Fitness Tracking: I don’t use GPS anyway so I use my phone for tracking my runs or bike rides. The heart rate monitor and step counter are enough for my fitness goals and I like the sleep tracking feature to understand my rest patterns better.
Mix and Match Straps: The watch comes with a fluoroelastomer strap, but I love the idea of swapping it for a leather or fabric strap for a different look. This can dress up the watch for formal occasions or casual outings.
Gift Idea: If you know someone who likes classic watch design and wants to try smartwatches, ScanWatch Horizon is a great gift. It’s a way to introduce them to health tracking without overwhelming them with too much tech.
Travel Companion: I think this watch would also be a great travel watch. The sapphire glass and stainless steel case is durable enough for travel and the classic design can fit in both casual and formal occasions.
While it may not have the prestige of a legacy watch brand, the ScanWatch Horizon is a great option for those who want a good-looking and well-made timepiece. The stainless steel case and band with sapphire glass give it a sophisticated look that stands out from the sea of black smartwatch lookalikes with silicone bands.
Specs
SIZE: 41mm, 45mm
WEIGHT: 31 to 37 grams
STRAP: Fluoroelastomer
Best Outdoor Smartwatch: Suunto Race S
For athletes and fitness enthusiasts who want to track their activities and workouts, generic smartwatches fall short on accuracy and sport-specific features. That’s where fitness-focused brands like Garmin, Suunto, Polar, and Coros come in. Among them, Suunto Race S is a top contender, a slim data-collecting health and fitness powerhouse at a reasonable price.
Fitness Focused
If your idea of a smartwatch is to be able to take calls and answer emails directly from your wrist, the Race S may not be for you. While it does provide notifications for incoming calls and messages when paired with your phone, the responses are limited to pre-set replies like “I’ll get back to you shortly.” This watch is designed as a fitness and health tracker first, prioritizing longer battery life and more control over quantifying your training and recovery over connectivity.
If you need more features, there are full-featured options available, like Garmin’s Fenix 8. The Fenix 8 has mapping and voice control, but it’s much more expensive, often triple the MSRP of the Suunto Race S.
Specs
SIZE: 45mm, 49mm
WEIGHT: 60 grams
STRAP: Silicone
Personal Thoughts and Ideas
Outdoor Adventures: Suunto Race S is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who do hiking, trail running or mountain biking. It’s lightweight and durable, so it’s great for long adventures.
Battery Life: One of the best features of the Race S is the battery life. For those who spend extended periods outdoors, this means less time recharging and more time doing activities. I find a smartwatch with a long battery life is essential for multi-day trips where charging is not available.
Data Tracking: The data-collecting capabilities of the Race S are a big plus for serious athletes. Whether you’re tracking heart rate, elevation gain, or recovery metrics, the watch provides valuable information that can help you optimize your training. I like how this level of detail can inform my workouts and recovery strategies.
Customization: The watch allows some customization of data fields during workouts. This is useful for athletes who want to focus on specific metrics that matter to them. I like to customize my display to show my heart rate and pace during runs so I can stay on track with my goals.
Affordability: For what it offers and does, the Suunto Race S is very affordable. If you’re serious about your fitness but don’t want to spend a fortune, this is a great option. It’s a great entry point if you want to move from a generic smartwatch to a more focused fitness device.
Best Budget Apple Watch: Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen)
Finding a cheaper Apple smartwatch can be challenging since Apple doesn’t license its wearable OS to other manufacturers. This means your options for a cheaper Apple watch are limited to sales and previous models. The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is a great option, a modern experience at a fraction of the cost of the Ultra without much compromise in features.
If you’re new to smartwatches it can be daunting to spend a lot of money on a watch. The SE makes that investment feel more reasonable. It has most of the essential features you’d expect from an Apple Watch. Plus, it’s a great option to pass down to kids or family members when you’re ready to upgrade to a newer model.
Specs
SIZE: 44mm
WEIGHT: 32.9 grams
STRAP OPTIONS: Fabric, silicone
Personal Thoughts and Ideas
Entry-Level Option: The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is a great entry-level smartwatch for those who want to get into the Apple ecosystem without the big price tag. It has a user-friendly interface and essential features that are easy to use for newbies.
Family Sharing: One of the best features of the Apple Watch SE is Family Setup. This allows you to set up the watch for family members who don’t have their own iPhones, perfect for kids or elderly relatives. I like how this feature can keep family members connected and safe.
Fitness and Health: The SE has most of the health and fitness tracking features of the more expensive models, including heart rate monitoring, activity tracking, and workout modes. If you want to stay active, this watch gives you valuable insights without the complexity.
Customization: With multiple strap options, fabric, and silicone, you can customize the look of the Apple Watch SE to your style. I like to switch out bands for different occasions, whether I’m at the gym or a formal event.
Future Proofing: Although the SE is a budget option, it still gets software updates from Apple, so you’ll get new features and improvements over time. This makes it a smart investment if you want to try out the smartwatch market.
Best Budget Android Watch: Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is a great option for a budget Android smartwatch. It has the rotating bezel navigation we love in the Galaxy Watch 6. The screen isn’t as big or bright as the 6 and may not be as future-proof, but the battery life is similar, and it has almost all the same features.
What I like about the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is the price. You can get it for around $100, which is a fraction of the cost of most of the latest Samsung and Apple smartwatches. This is a great option if you want to try out the smartwatch category without breaking the bank.
Specs
SIZE: 46mm
WEIGHT: 52 grams
STRAP OPTIONS: Silicone
Personal Insights and Ideas
Great Value: The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is excellent value for the price. If you want a reliable smartwatch without spending too much, this is a good entry point to the world of wearables.
User Interface: The rotating bezel makes it easy to navigate through apps and notifications. I like this feature, and it makes it easy to get the information I need quickly.
Fitness Features: The watch has heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and workout modes.
Android Compatibility: The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic works perfectly with Android smartphones, you can receive notifications, respond to messages and control music playback from your wrist. This is great for those who are already in the Samsung ecosystem.
Style: With the classic watch design and customizable watch faces, the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic can go from casual to formal. I like to change the watch face to match my outfit or mood, so it’s a versatile accessory.
Best Fitbit Smartwatch: Google Pixel 3
Since Google acquired Fitbit in 2019, we’ve seen a gradual but expected integration of Fitbit-branded devices into the Google brand. As a result, the Fitbit website now redirects to Google, where the latest smartwatch, the Pixel 3, is front and center. Since older Fitbit devices are getting little to no support, it might be time for dedicated Fitbit users to switch to Pixel products or look elsewhere.
Fair enough, the Pixel 3 has most of the Fitbit features you’d expect, including a 6-month subscription to Fitbit Premium and all the health and fitness tracking.
The enhanced sport and health tracking still feeds into the Fitbit app, and with the free trial subscription to Fitbit Premium, you get access to Fitbit Coach, which can prescribe workouts for you. But like many fitness watches and apps, the Pixel 3 is geared towards runners and can feel clunky about other sports and activities. The quirks of this ecosystem might limit who can fully benefit from this more robust Google/Fitbit offering, so it’s best for Android users and existing Fitbit enthusiasts.
Specs
SIZE: 41mm, 45mm
WEIGHT: 31 to 37 grams
STRAP OPTIONS: Fluoroelastomer
Personal Insights and Ideas
Seamless: For those who are already using Google services, the Pixel 3 has seamless integration with other Google apps and devices. I like this integration; it makes it easy to sync data and access information across platforms.
Health Tracking: The health and fitness features of the Pixel 3 are great, especially for those who track their workouts and health metrics. The 6 months Fitbit Premium is a nice bonus to try out personalized coaching and workout plans. I like how this can keep me motivated and accountable in my fitness journey.
User Interface: The interface is simple and easy to use, which is important for a smartwatch. I like how I can quickly get to my health stats, notifications, and apps without feeling overwhelmed.
Customization: The Pixel 3 has multiple watch faces and strap options, so you can customize your watch to match your style. I like to switch up the look of my watch depending on my outfit or occasion, so it’s a versatile accessory.
Non-Runners: While the Pixel 3 is great for running and basic fitness tracking, it may not be as good for other sports and activities. If you’re someone who does other sports and activities, it’s worth considering how well the watch will meet your needs.
Adventure Smartwatch: Garmin Fenix 8
The Fenix series is Garmin’s flagship adventure smartwatch line, and the September 2024 release of the Fenix 8 is going to be a significant upgrade for some and a skip for others. I fell into the former category as a spearfisherman and freediver who has always wanted basic underwater functionality beyond just water resistance. The new dive modes are a nice addition I really like.
Another big one is the addition of a microphone and speaker combo, which allows for voice commands, voice assistant interactions, and phone calls. This is a nice convenience, especially for those who are always on the go.
Health and Fitness Tracking
What’s still the same with the Fenix series is the comprehensive health and fitness tracking, which makes this one of the most feature-rich (and expensive) adventure sports watches in the market. The Fenix 8 builds upon the excellent foundation of the Fenix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar.
Garmin has also improved solar charging, which was functional in previous models but didn’t completely eliminate the need for regular charging. While heavy usage modes will still outpace the watch’s ability to recharge, this is a tangible improvement and not just a software update. The solar editions of the Fenix 8 are priced the same as the non-solar ones, so it’s an easy choice for those who hate having another device to charge. With the solar feature, you can get up to 27 hours of extra battery life from a single charge.
Voice Command and Functionality
The voice command and phone call functionality is another hardware update, but it has its limitations. You still need to have your phone with you to use Siri or Google Assistant, play music through the speaker, or take calls. The need to physically press a button to activate the assistant can actually make it not more convenient than just pressing the button for your voice command. But features like recording voice notes and checking if a text message requires a reply allow you to keep your phone stowed away while you’re focused on your activity.
Upgrade Considerations
Unless you’re a diver, upgrading from previous Fenix models may not be worth the cost. But if you’re new to Garmin or haven’t upgraded to several editions, there’s a lot to love about the Fenix 8 that justifies the premium price. If you’re on the fence and want to save several hundred dollars, the Fenix 7 models are available at a much lower price.
Specifications
CASE: Titanium
SIZE: 43mm, 47mm, 51mm
WEIGHT: 60 to 102 grams
STRAP: Silicone
What to Look for in a Smartwatch?
Operating System
When choosing a smartwatch, the operating system is a key factor to consider. The major players in the market are Google, Samsung, and Apple, and the best smartwatch for you may ultimately depend on the tech ecosystem you’re already in. For instance, a Google Pixel watch may work with an iPhone, but the integration and overall user experience will be much smoother if you stick to the brand you’re already using. If you like the Apple Watch, you’ll need an iPhone to access most of its features. If you prioritize fitness and tracking capabilities over app support and phone integration, then fitness-focused brands like Garmin and Suunto have several great options.
Cellular Connectivity
Another factor to consider is if the smartwatch has cellular connectivity. Some smartwatches, especially from Apple and Samsung, can access the wireless network independently of your phone. This feature allows you to receive messages, make calls, and use apps without needing to have your phone with you. But most fitness-focused watches from brands like Suunto and Garmin don’t have this feature, so you’ll need to have your phone with you for messaging and other connected apps. And if you want to use maps offline, you’ll need to download them in advance. Having a data connection makes the smartwatch more functional, but it can also drain the battery faster and often requires an additional line of data on your wireless plan, which costs around $10 per month.
Smartwatch Size and Weight
The size and weight of the smartwatch is also a key factor to consider. Most smartwatches are light, around 30 grams. But more rugged adventure watches like the Garmin Fenix 8 can be more than double that. A few dozen grams may not seem much on paper, but you’ll definitely feel the difference if you’re used to wearing a slim watch like the Google Pixel or Apple Watch SE.
Lighter watches are more comfortable for daily wear, but there are reasons to consider larger and heavier models. One of the main advantages of a bigger watch is the screen size. A larger and brighter screen makes it easier to read maps and messages and overall user experience. Larger watches also come with bigger and longer-lasting batteries, which means less charging and more convenience in your life.
Personal Notes
Ecosystem Compatibility: Before you buy, take a minute to think about your current devices. If you’re already invested in a particular ecosystem (like Apple or Google), it’s usually best to choose a smartwatch that fits into that ecosystem for the best experience.
What You Need: What features are most important to you? If you’re a runner or outdoor enthusiast, then fitness tracking and battery life are key. If you want a smartwatch for daily use, then app support and connectivity features.
Try Before You Buy: If you can try before you buy, visit a store and try on different smartwatches. This will give you a better feel of how they fit on your wrist and if you prefer a lighter or heavier model.
Battery Life: Think about how often you want to charge your watch. If you have a busy life and don’t want to worry about frequent charging, then a bigger watch with a longer battery life might be worth the extra weight.
Future Proof: Consider investing in a smartwatch that has the latest features and updates. This will ensure that your device will remain relevant and functional for years to come as technology evolves.