Smartwatches have evolved into multifunctional devices, such as health trackers, digital wallets, and smartphone extensions, even when your phone isn’t nearby. Many of the latest models offer advanced features like heart rate monitoring, fall detection, and ECG and blood oxygen readings. They also provide customization options, allowing you to choose from various straps and watch faces to match your style. Explore my top smartwatch picks to find models that combine cutting-edge technology with personal flair.
Best Smartwatches: 10 Multifunctional Devices Reviewed!
Apple Watch Series 9
The Apple Watch Series 9 is the top-notch smartwatch available today, incorporating notable improvements over its predecessor, the Series 8. It features the new S9 processor, which enhances performance by 25% and supports a brighter 2,000-nit display. The introduction of the double-tap gesture simplifies navigation, while the updated ultra-wideband chip makes it easier to locate a misplaced iPhone. Additionally, it’s Apple’s first carbon-neutral device, emphasizing its commitment to environmental sustainability through recycled materials and eco-friendly packaging.
Despite these advancements, the Series 9 is affected by a patent dispute with Masimo, which temporarily removes the blood oxygen feature from sale. Nevertheless, this smartwatch remains a top choice for iPhone users, offering comprehensive health tracking, seamless communication, and the latest watchOS ten features. Whether for fitness, productivity, or app usage, the Apple Watch Series 9 delivers exceptional functionality and style for those in the Apple ecosystem.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 is an excellent choice for Android users, offering advanced features and user-friendly design. It is available in 40mm and 44mm sizes, and while its exterior design closely resembles its predecessor, significant internal upgrades enhance its performance. The watch features a more accurate GPS antenna, double the storage of the previous model, and a faster, more efficient processor. It also provides detailed sleep insights from just one night of use, supported by AI-driven wellness features that include a daily Energy Score to motivate and track overall health.
However, the Galaxy Watch 7’s battery life lasts about 24 hours with the always-on display or up to 40 hours in power-save mode, which is typical for smartwatches. While the device excels in delivering detailed health data and a responsive user interface, some health-monitoring features, such as sleep apnea detection, require a Galaxy phone. Despite these limitations, the Galaxy Watch 7 remains a leading option for those searching for a thorough and comfortable smartwatch experience for Android devices.
Google Pixel Watch 2
The Google Pixel Watch 2 stands out as the ideal smartwatch for Pixel phone users, blending the robust capabilities of Wear OS with Fitbit’s comprehensive health tracking. It offers a range of features, including a stress-detection sensor and the new Safety Check function, which shares your location with emergency contacts in critical situations. Integrating Google apps and Fitbit’s health-tracking, enhanced with Fitbit Premium, provides a well-rounded and enjoyable smartwatch experience.
However, the Pixel Watch 2 has some design drawbacks, notably its thick bezels and the lack of a wireless charger, which may deter some users. Despite these issues, the improved battery life from its predecessor offers a practical benefit. Overall, the Pixel Watch 2 provides connectivity and health monitoring for Pixel smartphone owners, making it a strong choice for those invested in the Google ecosystem.
Apple Watch SE (2022)
The Apple Watch SE (2022) offers exceptional value for iPhone users by combining an older Apple Watch design with the powerful chipset of the Series 8. Priced at $249, it provides excellent fitness tracking, safety features, and an LTE option for those interested in Family Setup while being more affordable than its higher-end counterparts. Although it lacks advanced features like an always-on display and the latest health monitoring tools, it remains a robust choice for those who don’t need these additional functionalities.
When selecting between the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Apple Watch SE (2022), the critical consideration is whether the extra $150 for the Series 8’s enhanced display and additional health metrics justifies the cost. The SE (2022) still benefits from the latest watchOS 9, which includes new watch faces, a redesigned compass tool, and an upgraded workout interface. This makes it a well-rounded smartwatch for users who prioritize functionality over the premium features of the Series 8.
Fitbit Sense 2
The Fitbit Sense 2 stands out as Fitbit’s most advanced smartwatch, featuring a revamped design, improved interface, and a new continuous EDA (electrodermal activity) sensor. Priced at $299, it excels in fitness and health tracking, mainly through its integration with Fitbit Premium, which enhances its capabilities with proactive stress management and detailed health insights. Its comfortable design and robust fitness features make it a top choice for those looking to monitor their well-being comprehensively.
Despite its strengths, the Sense 2 has a few limitations. It lacks third-party app support, which may be a drawback for users seeking a broader range of functionalities. Additionally, while it supports Google Wallet and Google Maps, these features will not be available at launch. Nonetheless, the Sense 2 remains a strong option for users interested in detailed health tracking and stress management.
Garmin Venu 3
The Garmin Venu 3 is a premier choice for fitness enthusiasts, blending advanced workout tracking with stylish design. Priced at $449, this smartwatch provides comprehensive fitness insights, including intuitive sleep and workout advice, and offers a robust battery life of up to 14 days. It integrates features borrowed from Garmin’s high-end models, such as detailed sports profiles and a new sleep coach, ensuring thorough monitoring of daily activities and rest.
Despite its strengths, the Venu 3 has limitations, including a lack of third-party app support and LTE functionality. While it delivers accurate GPS tracking and mirrored notifications, its app ecosystem remains limited compared to competitors. Nonetheless, its extensive battery life and rich fitness attributes make it an excellent choice for a reliable and stylish fitness-tracking smartwatch.
Apple Watch Ultra 2
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is an exceptional choice for those prioritizing safety and sports functionality. This robust smartwatch stands out with its 49mm display, built with a durable titanium bezel and sapphire glass for enhanced protection. The addition of the Action Button provides quick access to workout features and crucial safety tools like Emergency SOS and the integrated siren, making it ideal for adventurers and serious athletes.
With a battery life of up to 60 hours in low power mode, the Ultra 2 surpasses other Apple Watches, though it still falls short compared to some Garmin models. Its advanced water resistance, up to 100 meters, and rugged build make it a top contender for those needing a reliable companion in extreme conditions. While it may not be the best option for everyone, it offers a significant feature upgrade for those who need both performance and safety on their wrist.
Garmin Forerunner 265
The Garmin Forerunner 265 stands out as the top choice for runners. It combines essential tracking features with a stylish design at an attractive price. Available in 42mm and 46mm sizes, this smartwatch boasts a bright AMOLED display that remains clear even in direct sunlight. It offers precise GPS tracking, customizable workouts, and access to Garmin’s extensive training metrics, enhancing workout planning and recovery.
Though it excels in fitness tracking, the Forerunner 265 doesn’t have as many “smart” features as some competitors, such as advanced apps or LTE connectivity. Nevertheless, its ability to handle multisport tracking, including triathlon mode, and the inclusion of Garmin’s Training Readiness Score make it a valuable tool for runners of all levels. With a battery life that supports extended workout sessions, this watch is a superb choice for dedicated athletes looking for performance and value.
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is a top choice for those seeking exceptional battery life and premium features in a smartwatch. A robust BioActive sensor similar to the Galaxy Watch 7 offers advanced tracking for sleep and workouts, alongside monitoring for health issues like sleep apnea and irregular heartbeats. Its impressive battery life extends up to 48 hours, and the watch features a striking titanium finish, a customizable Action button, and a high-brightness AMOLED display that remains clear in bright sunlight.
Despite its strengths, the Galaxy Watch Ultra has a few drawbacks. Its performance is similar to that of the more affordable Galaxy Watch 7, and many of its advanced features are optimized for use with Samsung phones. It is water-resistant up to 100 meters, but it’s not designed for extreme water sports or scuba diving. At $650, it represents a significant investment but remains a standout option for those prioritizing battery life and premium materials.
Fitbit Versa 4
The Fitbit Versa 4 is the top smartwatch for tracking step counting, offering reliable step tracking with hourly reminders and alerts to keep you motivated. While it excels in encouraging physical activity, it falls short in heart rate accuracy and lacks support for third-party apps. Despite these limitations, the Versa 4’s sleek design and attractive metallic finishes make it a stylish choice, especially for those on a budget who are less concerned with advanced fitness metrics.
With a slim profile and good battery life lasting up to six days, the Versa 4 provides solid step tracking and sleep monitoring performance. It’s a well-rounded option for users who value simplicity and effective step tracking without the need for high-end fitness features. For those who don’t need stress management tools and are looking for an affordable alternative to the Fitbit Sense 2, the Versa 4 is an excellent choice.
Conclusion:
The top smartwatches cater to different needs, each offering unique features. The Apple Watch Series 9 excels with improved performance and eco-friendly design, though it temporarily lacks the blood oxygen feature. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 impresses Android users with its accurate health insights and comfortable design, while the Google Pixel Watch 2 combines Wear OS with enhanced battery life. The Apple Watch SE (2022) offers excellent value for iPhone users, and the Fitbit Sense 2 excels in fitness and stress tracking despite lacking third-party apps. For athletes, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Garmin Venu 3 provide durability and advanced features, with the Ultra 2 notable for its exceptional battery life and rugged build.
