Buying guide for best smartwatches
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Smartwatches offer several features that make life easier and help you maintain your fitness. Whether you want a smartwatch for tracking health metrics, such as your heart rate, steps and calories burned, or something that gives you the freedom to use your phone less, these are the best smartwatches for the job.
Before buying a smartwatch, it’s crucial to consider which features you value the most. The best smartwatches have long-lasting battery life, a user-friendly interface and plenty of premium features like sleep tracking and third-party app integration.
The BestReviews Testing Lab tested seven smartwatches for performance and functionality and analyzed each model’s design and aesthetic appeal. Our favorite is the Apple Watch Series 9. It comes loaded with all the convenient features you could ask for, and its highly responsive interface makes it a joy to use.
Expert Tip
If your smartwatch alerts you to a health concern, don’t dismiss it--it could be an early warning for something serious. Follow up with your physician to learn more.
BestReviews Electronics Expert
Which smartwatch is best?
Apple Watch Series 9
Best Overall Design
Display Type: Retina | Battery Life: 18 hr | Operating System: watchOS | Connectivity (Bluetooth/Wi-Fi/LTE): Bluetooth/Wi-Fi/LTE | Compatibility (iOS/Android): iOS
The Apple Watch is the most popular smartwatch, and if you own an iPhone, the Series 9 is your best feature-packed option. We tested the Apple Watch Series 9, which performed so well that we deemed it the best smartwatch.
The Apple Watch Series 9 is available in GPS and cellular models. The cellular version is for those who want a separate cellular data plan so their smartwatch can stay connected without having a phone nearby. Turning it on and setting it up through an iPhone takes under three minutes, and the interface responsiveness when switching or launching apps is superb. The display is easy to read in all lighting conditions, and the Always On display is a nice feature that isn’t available on some smartwatches.
The double-tap feature is now available on the latest watchOS update, and it allows you to tap the screen to perform actions like sending a message. The call quality is adequate, and we found haptic feedback more helpful than sound alerts. Overall, the Apple Watch Series 9 boasts a classic design with added features that will please anyone who wants something for casual everyday use and serious athletes who want to monitor health and fitness. It’s a 10 out of 10 in our books.
Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen)
Best Smartwatch Under $300
Display Type: Retina | Battery Life: 18 hr | Operating System: watchOS | Connectivity (Bluetooth/Wi-Fi/LTE): Bluetooth/Wi-Fi/LTE | Compatibility (iOS/Android): iOS
The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is a more budget-friendly Apple Watch than the Series 9. However, that doesn’t mean it lacks features or functionality because it has more in common with that smartwatch than you might think.
We tested the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) with mostly positive results. It takes the same time as the Series 9 to sync and set up with an iPhone, and the display brightness and clarity are outstanding no matter the environment. Always On is missing from this smartwatch, but we found it better since it was less prone to accidental taps. The user interface is intuitive, with easy-to-navigate menus, and the health and fitness sensors provide accurate readings whether you’re exercising or monitoring your heart rate.
It’s a highly durable smartwatch with a water-resistant design that makes it suitable for swimming and water sports. It has a comfortable feel that allows you to wear it for several hours without discomfort, and notifications drop in almost as soon as your phone receives them. Unless you really want extra features like a blood oxygen or ECG app, it’s an excellent alternative to the Apple Watch Series 9, which typically costs over $150 more. It scored well in all metrics, so we must award this smartwatch a 10 out of 10.
Fitbit Versa 4
Most Budget-friendly
Display Type: AMOLED | Battery Life: 6 days | Operating System: Fitbit OS | Connectivity (Bluetooth/Wi-Fi/LTE): Bluetooth/Wi-Fi | Compatibility (iOS/Android): iOS/Android
If you don’t own an iPhone, don’t even bother checking out Apple Watches since they only work with iOS devices. The Fitbit is a much more versatile smartwatch than the Apple Watch because it’s compatible with both iOS and Android devices. Fitbit is known for its wristband-style fitness trackers, but it also offers smartwatches like the Versa 4.
In our tests, we noted that the Fitbit Versa 4 looks similar to the Apple Watch, but it’s sleeker and more compact, making it better for athletes. The interface is responsive and user-friendly, and the fitness tracking is accurate as it provides heart rate results similar to those of the Apple Watch. Sleep tracking is an excellent feature that provides detailed reports and insights; other features, such as Alexa, work smoothly. The battery life is also much better than that of any Apple Watch, lasting several days even with heavy use.
It offers an excellent balance between fitness tracker and phone functionality. However, the latter doesn’t perform as well as the Apple Watch because it doesn’t boast as many features, and others, such as messaging, are clunky. For fitness tracking, however, it’s arguably superior. The lightweight build and durable strap can handle even the most rigorous workouts. Everything considered, we think this smartwatch is solid and good enough to earn an 8 out of 10 rating.
Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic
Best Fitness Tracking
Display Type: AMOLED | Battery Life: 40 hr | Operating System: Wear OS | Connectivity (Bluetooth/Wi-Fi/LTE): Bluetooth/Wi-Fi/LTE | Compatibility (iOS/Android): Android
As we did with the Apple Watch, we’ve given the Samsung Galaxy smartwatches plenty of attention to determine which smartwatches are worth your money. The first smartwatch we tested was the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic, a high-end smartwatch for those with Android smartphones, particularly those with a Samsung phone.
The pairing and initial startup process is quick and straightforward, and the screen’s clarity is excellent under any lighting conditions. Haptic feedback is superb, touch navigation and responsiveness are flawless, and although GPS tracking isn’t super accurate, health metrics like heart rate and blood pressure monitoring are. The battery life isn’t as long as the Fitbit, but it’s slightly better than the Apple Watch, dropping from 100% to 57% after a full day of moderate usage.
App notifications quickly arrive on the smartwatch, and there is support for various non-Samsung third-party apps. The watch’s classic design gives it a premium feel, and despite its outward appearance, it’s surprisingly lightweight and comfortable. If not for the unreliable GPS and mediocre battery life, this watch would have received a perfect score, but instead, we've given it a 9 out of 10.
Samsung Galaxy Watch6
Best Android SmartwatchDisplay Type: AMOLED | Battery Life: 40 hr | Operating System: Wear OS | Connectivity (Bluetooth/Wi-Fi/LTE): Bluetooth/Wi-Fi/LTE | Compatibility (iOS/Android): Android
The Samsung Galaxy Watch6 resembles the Galaxy Watch6 Classic, but there are a few differences to note before buying one. By testing both models, we’ve done some digging to find out what sets the Galaxy Watch6 apart from its more expensive counterpart.
Right off the jump, we noticed similarities in the performance of the Galaxy Watch6. The operating system’s responsiveness is nearly identical, and health-tracking data is nearly on par with the results delivered by other high-end smartwatches. Like the Galaxy Watch6 Classic, the display is bright and easy to read even in bright environments, but the battery life might be slightly better. With moderate use, we noticed only a 40% decrease in battery in a single day. The screen is highly scratch-resistant and easy to integrate with Android devices.
The Galaxy Watch6 offers similar performance and functionality to the Galaxy Watch6 Classic, though it lacks a rotating bezel. If that’s a game changer for you, we recommend the more expensive model over this one. However, if you don’t mind something a little more lightweight and aesthetically unassuming, the Galaxy Watch6 is a terrific option, especially if you’re an athlete. Sleep tracking is mediocre, and the missing bezel downgrades its appearance, so we give this smartwatch an 8 out of 10, which is still outstanding.
Garmin Vívoactive 5
Trusted Brand
Display Type: AMOLED | Battery Life: 11 days | Operating System: GarminOS | Connectivity (Bluetooth/Wi-Fi/LTE): Bluetooth/Wi-Fi | Compatibility (iOS/Android): iOS/Android
Samsung and Apple smartwatches are fantastic, but for those who want something more practical or are focused on health and fitness tracking, the Garmin Vívoactive 5 is worth a look. We tested the Garmin Vívoactive 5 to see how it stacks up against the best Samsung and Apple smartwatches, and we were more than pleased with what we saw.
The display quality is impressive, and swiping through menus is fluid. You can easily see and read content in any lighting conditions, and the interface is responsive to the touch of the buttons during workouts. Notifications are customizable, and the integrated GPS acquires a signal in seconds in most areas. Various health metrics, such as heart rate, steps and sleep, are tracked accurately, and the corresponding smartphone app provides plenty of data and info, helping users keep track of their health and fitness goals.
If you don’t mind the bulky design, or you’re into health and fitness and don’t want a Samsung or Apple smartwatch, the Garmin Vívoactive 5 is one of the best smartwatches you can get. The battery life lasts several weeks in low-power mode, and the display is bright, colorful and responsive. It’s not the most visually appealing smartwatch, but it performs well in every area we tested, so we have to award it a 10 out of 10.
Phyulls Smartwatch
Best for Kids
Display Type: Touch screen | Battery Life: 3 days | Operating System: NA | Connectivity (Bluetooth/Wi-Fi/LTE): NA | Compatibility (iOS/Android): NA
Today, kids are more into technology than ever, and most kids get tablets and smartphones at an early age. If your child under 12 has asked you for a smartwatch, it’s best to consider getting one designed for children. The Phyulls Smartwatch is an excellent option, and we’ve tested it to see how well it performs.
We were most impressed with how easy it is for kids to navigate the menus. The app icons are bright and colorful, and the touch screen is highly responsive. The battery only takes one hour to charge and can last several days. It has a screen protector, but the watch is surprisingly durable, scratch- and water-resistant.
The watch’s content is directed more at older kids, so if you’re considering getting a smartwatch for a child younger than 8 or 9, we recommend looking elsewhere. Other than that, it’s a solid smartwatch for kids, offering plenty of content options, terrific battery life and outstanding durability. For what it is, we award it an 8 out of 10.
Samsung Galaxy Watch4
Customer Favorite
Display Type: AMOLED | Battery Life: 40 hours | Operating System: Wear OS | Connectivity (Bluetooth/Wi-Fi/LTE): Bluetooth/Wi-Fi/LTE | Compatibility (iOS/Android): Android
We realize we’re on the sixth generation of Samsung Galaxy smartwatches, but that doesn’t mean we can’t recommend the Samsung Galaxy Watch4. It’s a terrific bargain pick for those who don’t mind an older smartwatch, and it has a similar design and offers comparable performance to the Galaxy Watch6.
In addition to an activity tracker where you can track various workouts, such as swimming, running and weightlifting, this smartwatch provides readings on body fat, skeletal muscle, body water, basal metabolic rate and body mass index. Heart rate and step counts are accurate, and you can get a reading on VO2 max to help you determine your fitness level. Phone notifications like calls and messages drop in quickly, and you can set up Google Pay so you don’t have to use your phone or wallet.
For under $200, the Samsung Galaxy Watch4 offers tremendous value. It boasts all of the essential features you would expect from a high-end smartwatch. Although it’s not as stylish as the Galaxy Watch6 Classic, it’s arguably more fashionable than the Apple Watch SE and Fitbit Versa 4. It’s an older model, so it’s a bit glitchy at times, but overall, it’s a solid smartwatch and a steal at its price point, so it deserves an 8 out of 10 rating.
Expert Tip
If you have an iPhone, you can use any Apple Watch series 3 or higher to unlock your phone. This is especially handy if you’re wearing a mask and FaceID doesn’t recognize you.
BestReviews Electronics Expert
How we tested the best smartwatches
After considering 35 smartwatches for this article, we narrowed our list to the eight models above and tested seven. To determine which products are the best, we conducted a thorough screening process that included unboxing each one, setting it up and testing its features and performance over the course of a few days.
Setup
This process involves syncing the smartwatch with a compatible smartphone, going through the setup wizard and inputting key information to optimize performance.
Responsiveness
This step is where our testers navigate menus and launch apps. The screen is tested by swiping, zooming and typing to send text messages and test its responsiveness. Testers also note how user-friendly the interface is and how easy it is to find apps, settings and widgets.
Tracking
Here, our testers compare the results of various health and fitness metric readings with other smartwatches. For example, heart rate monitor readings and GPS accuracy are compared across the board to determine each device's margin of error. Some common metrics our testers compare include sleep habits, blood oxygen, calories burned and step count.
Battery life
It’s a simple but crucial step that involves a tester wearing the smartwatch for a day or two and keeping track of battery endurance. To ensure fairness, our testers perform identical tasks for all smartwatches so that the same processes are causing the battery to drain.
Smartwatches vs. fitness trackers
Is there a difference between a smartwatch and a fitness tracker? There used to be, but the lines have blurred. Smartwatches are designed to run apps from your phone, including fitness apps. They’re great for taking fitness further if you have a workout app you love, but they also run a lot of other apps. In other words, smartwatches extend the mobile experience from your phone to your wrist.
Fitness trackers are built with one goal in mind: helping you stay fit. Fitness trackers are more affordable and often include basic smartphone connectivity to receive mobile notifications, but they rarely include non-fitness features.
Expert Tip
Most smartwatches are made in standard sizes, but you can get your own watchband in a more comfortable size or style if you don’t like the one it comes with.
BestReviews Electronics Expert
Key features
Back in the day, only one watch feature mattered: whether it could tell time. Nowadays, with smartwatches, it’s a bit more complicated. Here are the features to pay attention to as you compare smartwatch models.
Compatibility
Not all smartwatches are compatible with all smartphones, so it’s crucial to ensure the smartwatch is compatible with your smartphone before purchasing it. Whether it's iOS or Android, some watches are optimized for specific platforms. It’s also a good idea to consider the variety of apps available for the watch. Some platforms, like Apple's watchOS and Google's Wear OS, have extensive app ecosystems.
Smartwatches are semifunctional on their own, but most need to connect to a smartphone to unlock the most useful functionality. If you own an iPhone, you’ll get the most from an Apple Watch. If you own an Android phone, you may want to consider a smartwatch that runs the Android-based Wear OS. Some smartwatches, such as those from Garmin, come with apps that work well with either iOS or Android.
Our top picks: Compatibility
- Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch SE: Apple Watches only work with iPhones.
- Fitbit Versa 4: The Fitbit Versa 4 can be synced with iOS and Android smartphones.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic and Samsung Galaxy Watch6: Samsung Galaxy smartwatches are only compatible with Android smartphones. However, they work best with Samsung smartphones.
Notifications and communications
Beyond fitness, smartwatches can display notifications from your phone, control smart home devices, and even allow you to respond to messages or take calls. Integration with voice assistants like Siri, Google Assistant or Bixby can enhance the functionality.
One of the most useful things a smartwatch can do is show you notifications on your wrist. You can see messages, emails, reminders, appointments, weather alerts, flight alerts and more on any smartwatch. Pick a smartwatch that’s easy to read and use and, when possible, allows you to respond to notifications without opening your phone.
Our top picks: Notifications and communications
- Apple Watch Series 9: This Apple Watch delivers notifications almost as soon as your phone receives them. It works well with most apps compatible with watchOS and lets you respond to notifications on the display.
- Apple Watch SE: The Apple Watch SE offers the same notification and communications features as the Series 9, including hands-free access to Siri.
- Fitbit Versa 4: The Fitbit Versa 4 lets you send text messages and take phone calls. It also receives app notifications but is not as responsive as an Apple Watch in this area. It works best with Alexa.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic: The Galaxy Watch6 Classic is excellent for taking phone calls and managing notifications from Samsung and third-party apps. It’s highly responsive and works with Alexa, Bixby and Google Assistant.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch6: This watch functions identically to the Galaxy Watch6 Classic.
Health and fitness tracking
Most smartwatches include sensors for step counting and heart rate monitoring, but more expensive ones can also track metrics such as blood oxygen, ECG functionality and stress levels. If you're a fitness enthusiast, consider watches with built-in GPS, advanced workout modes and water resistance for swimming.
If you’re a physically active person, pay attention to the fitness-tracking features available on different smartwatches. Every good smartwatch should feature GPS functionality to track your location, runs and bike rides. Most smartwatches also support specific sports and fitness activities, such as running, hiking, climbing, skiing and swimming. Some offer fitness and athletic coaching to help you reach your goals.
These days, smartwatches can provide wearers with a variety of health data. Some models can even monitor blood oxygen levels and ECG information, which may give you an idea of when to seek medical attention. If you have particular health concerns, you may want to consult your healthcare provider about which health-monitoring features would benefit you the most.
Our top picks: Health and fitness tracking
- Apple Watch Series 9: It’s excellent for tracking various health and fitness metrics, and you can set active goals with Rings that can alert you to how many calories you need to burn, how long you should stand and how many minutes you should exercise every day.
- Apple Watch SE: It works the same as the Series 9.
- Fitbit Versa 4: It’s one of the best smartwatches for health-conscious users and provides more detailed insight reports than the Apple Watch.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic: It’s suitable for all users but particularly effective for runners as they can get personalized activities and reports.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch6: The same applies to this smartwatch as the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic.
Battery life
Battery life varies widely among smartwatches, from one day to more than a week on a single charge, so it’s best to consider how often you’re willing to charge your watch. It largely depends on how much you use it and what applications you run. Some watches offer power-saving modes that extend battery life but limit functionality.
It’s frustrating when a watch stops working in the middle of a busy day. As such, it’s important to get one that lasts as long as needed. A smartwatch should last at least a full day of use or close to it. For example, Apple Watches last about 18 hours at full power and up to 36 hours on low-power mode.
If you wear a smartwatch to sleep, consider a model that lasts at least 24 hours.
Our top picks: Battery life
- Apple Watch Series 9: Apple Watches are notorious for their poor battery life, with the Series 9 lasting just one or two days with moderate usage.
- Apple Watch SE: The Apple Watch SE’s battery life is comparable to the Apple Watch Series 9.
- Fitbit Versa 4: The Fitbit Versa 4 has terrific battery life and can last four or five days with minimal usage. However, the range drops to three to four days with heavier usage.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic: The Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic has slightly better battery life than the Apple Watch, but it’s still not great, lasting just over two days with moderate usage.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch6: The battery life is slightly better on the Galaxy6 but still lasts approximately two days on a full charge with minimal usage.
Tips
- Before you buy a smartwatch, look up the manufacturer’s typical product cycles to see if a new version is expected soon. New models often come out yearly with innovations and improvements worth waiting for. On the other hand, if a new version is coming soon, you’re more likely to find massive discounts on current models as retailers look to liquidate their stock.
- If the smartwatch you want requires a proprietary charging cable, buy an extra one. This is true of Apple Watches, which have small round charging pucks, and Garmin smartwatches, which use special cable jacks. No matter how your smartwatch gets powered up, keep a spare cable at your desk or in your bag — you never know when you’ll need a charge on the go.
- Insure your smartwatch in case of an accident. Many manufacturers and retailers offer product insurance on smartwatches, often referred to as “performance plans.” With most electronics, performance plans aren’t worth it — but smartwatches have glass screens that can crack or scratch easily, not to mention dozens of sensors that can get damaged. Get peace of mind with an insurance plan that covers accidental damage.
- Get at least two different straps or bands. Smartwatches often let you easily swap bands or straps. This allows you to coordinate your strap with your outfit or activity. For example, you could have a flexible, sweat-resistant strap for fitness and exercise and a fine leather or metal strap for professional and social events.
- Don’t shower with your smartwatch. The top smartwatches all feature a good level of water resistance. They are advertised as “swimproof,” meaning they can get wet for a limited time without permanent damage. This makes it tempting to wear a smartwatch in the shower, but note that these gadgets may not be resistant to soaps or shampoos that could cause internal damage.
FAQ
Q. Can I make a phone call with a smartwatch if it’s not connected to my smartphone?
A. It depends on the smartwatch. Most are designed to be connected to a smartphone all the time. In those cases, the smartwatch can act as a microphone and speaker for calls from your smartphone. Some high-end smartwatches can independently make phone calls and connect to the internet.
Q. What customizations can I make to a smartwatch?
A. You can choose from multiple available digital watch faces for the built-in screen. Smartwatches come with galleries of available faces, including digital and analog-style faces; each can be customized with personal color combinations or “complications” based on the apps installed and what you’d prefer to see on the screen.
Many smartwatches can also switch straps or bands easily. Depending on your smartwatch brand, there may be dozens or hundreds of compatible straps from third-party manufacturers.
On Android Wear smartwatches, you can choose from hundreds of options, including user-submitted designs. On Apple Watches, you can select a watch face from their curated gallery of designs. If you want to update the look of your smartwatch, you could always buy a third-party watch band.
Q. What does it mean when a smartwatch says it supports mobile payments?
A. Some smartphones support mobile payment systems, which means you can store your banking or credit card information and pay with your phone. If a smartwatch supports mobile payments, it means that if it’s connected to a smartphone that can make mobile payments, it can interface with the payment system — that is, do the actual paying — with just the watch (so you don’t have to get out your phone).
Q. Are there any smartwatches that measure blood sugar?
A. The Huawei 4 smartwatch is the first on the market to feature built-in noninvasive blood glucose monitoring that can tell you if you’re at risk for hyperglycemia. It doesn’t need a separate blood glucose monitor, and it doesn’t break the skin.
Apple, among others, is researching adding blood glucose monitoring as well. The top smartwatches support reading blood glucose levels from separate compatible blood glucose monitors.
Q. Do tattoos interfere with smartwatch features?
A. Yes, tattoos interfere with several smartwatch features. Many smartwatches use optical sensors on their backs, where they touch the wrist, for everything from heart rate to whether the watch is being worn.
A tattoo, typically an artificially dark color, interferes with these sensors, leading to some features (such as heart rate) not tracking properly. In some cases, the watch may not work at all because it can’t detect that it’s on your wrist.
If you have tattoos or skin art, use a smartwatch on a wrist that is not tattooed, if possible. Or, use it with a compatible chest strap for fitness monitoring.
Our expertise
Jmar Gambol has used a smartwatch since receiving one unexpectedly for Christmas in 2016. Since then, he’s had three different smartwatches and is rarely not wearing one, except to shower. He personally tested four of the nine smartwatches listed here and has written about smartwatches for the BestReviews Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping guides and the BestReviews buying guides.
Kevin Luna also contributed to this buying guide by providing firsthand knowledge of his experiences with smartwatches. He’s owned Fitbits and Apple Watches and still uses them as smartphone extensions and for health and fitness reasons. He’s also written about smartwatches for BestReviews in the past.
