Rachael Ban

Fitbit vs Apple Watch: Which is Better?

November 11, 2019 By Rachael Ban Leave a Comment

Fitbit and Apple are the two biggest players in the smartwatch industry. So, the majority of consumers will pick either a Fitbit or an Apple Watch. But what’s the difference between these two brands?

Well, it has been said that Fitbits are primarily intended to be fitness trackers whilst Apple Watches are primarily intended to be personal assistants.

Whilst this might be half-true, I don’t think it’s a very helpful contrast to make, because both watches offer a range of features. Indeed, both watches can be considered hybrids, so I don’t think it’s fair to pigeonhole them as either a ‘smartwatch’ or a ‘fitness tracker’.

What are the differences between a Fitbit and an Apple Watch?

If you’re feeling confused, then don’t worry. In this article, I’ll show you how Fitbits compare with Apple Watches in terms of cost, battery life, fitness tracking, and extra features. So, let’s begin!

1. Heart rate tracking

Firstly, it should be said that both watches are very good at tracking heart rate (HR). Fitbit were actually the first company to offer continuous HR tracking on a wrist, so consider them trailblazers in this industry.

Nevertheless, Apple’s HR tracking technology is now superior. In fact, their sophisticated watches can detect the first signs of atrial fibrillation (an irregular heartbeat). Indeed, that’s why we should celebrate the Apple Watch as a health tracker (not just a smartwatch).

Person checking fitness on Fitbit smartwatch

2. Activity and fitness tracking

Both watches perform highly in this category, though Fitbit may just have the edge. This is because some Fitbits offer on-screen workouts, and these are great for keeping you motivated.

Also, the Charge 3 is particularly good at detecting stairs climbed when compared to other watches like the Apple Watch.

Nevertheless, both watches offer automatic activity detection – which makes fitness tracking so much more convenient. As a result, either watch would make a great activity/fitness tracker.

3. Female health tracking

Fitbit have offered female health tracking since 2018, but Apple only joined the party this year (2019). Although they were late adding this feature, this press release from Apple suggests that the new technology holds huge potential for the future.

However, Apple aren’t elaborating on how the technology works, which suggests they may still be in the testing/tweaking stage. However, some people predict that Apple’s female health tracking technology is going to be far superior to the tech used by Fitbit and Garmin (which explains why we’ve had to wait so long for it).

So, if menstrual/female health tracking is important to you, investing in an Apple watch may be worth it. In fact, all Apple technology will have this feature, so you may even consider switching to an Apple handset.

4. Cost (and value for money)

You probably don’t need me to tell you that Apple watches are expensive! (Although there are places you can find cheap or used Apple watches). Bought new, the latest Apple Watch is more than 3 times the price of the Fitbit Charge 3. Also, its double the price of the Ionic, which is the most expensive Fitbit.

With Apple, you are partly paying for the brand. But, at the same time, the watch is packed full of features, so you are getting a lot for your money.

However, you won’t be getting value for money if you’re paying for features you don’t use. So, for some people, Fitbits do offer better value for money.

5. Battery life

When it comes to battery life, Fitbits are far superior (see table below). In fact, one of the biggest complaints about the Apple Watch is its battery life.

6. Style and design

One of the positive things about Fitbits is that they are lighter, thinner, and smaller than most other smartwatches (including the Apple Watch). As a result, this makes them ideal smartwatches for girls.

However, their futuristic design can make them unsuitable for some formal settings. If you want a Fitbit you can wear to any occasion, then consider the Fitbit Versa 2 or Fitbit Ionic.

7. Smart/tech features

When compared to Fitbits, Apple watches can be considered more hi-tech. For example:

Both watches allow you to receive phone calls and texts, but the Apple Watch lets you reply to texts.
In addition, the Apple Watch provides you with a personal assistant (SIRI). Unfortunately, Fitbits do not offer this feature.
Also, there are 10,000+ apps available to download on Apple Watch. In contrast, Fitbit offers around 150+.
Finally, you can live stream Apple Music on an Apple Watch, whereas you’ll have to download your music onto your Fitbit.

So, if you like having the most up-to-date technology, then the Apple Watch may be for you.

How does each Fitbit compare to the Apple Watch?

So, we’ve explored the main similarities and differences between Fitbit and Apple, but there is more than one type of Fitbit. In fact, they range in price from around £80 to £250. If you’re unsure how these all compare then read on. Below, I compare the four most popular Fitbits with the most recent Apple Watch 5.

	Fitbit Versa 2	Fitbit Ionic	Fitbit Charge 3	Apple Watch
Battery	5+ days	4+ days	7+ days	1+ day
GPS	Connected only	Yes	Connected only	Yes
Heartrate	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes + Atrial fibrillation
Cost	£199	£249	£149	£499
Pay feat.	Yes	Yes	Only special edition	Yes
Music	Stores 300 songs	Stores 300 songs	Connected only	Streams Apple music
Compat.	IOS & Android	IOS & Android	IOS & Android	IOS

Should I buy a Fitbit or Apple Watch?

So, this article has shown you the key differences between Fitbit and Apple watches.

Even with all this information, choosing between these brands can be difficult. Personally, I find the Fitbit Charge 3 or Versa 2 good options. For me, these watches are great ‘hybrids’, so they are certainly good value for money.

But I do think Apple’s technology is more impressive. Firstly, the Apple Watch has the power to detect an irregular heartbeat. Also, it seems that Apple’s female health tracking technology is going to superior to anybody else’s.

So, if these things sound exciting to you, and you have a healthy budget, the Apple Watch is unlikely to disappoint.

Still undecided? We have a helpful guide for choosing a smartwatch.

Where to Get a Cheap (or Used) Apple Watch?

October 17, 2019 By Rachael Ban Leave a Comment

The Apple Watch is iconic. Not only is the best-known smartwatch, but it also boasts the latest technology.

For example, it is the only smartwatch that can detect an irregular heartbeat. Also, it is one of the few watches that can automatically detect physical activity (whether you’re running a marathon or running for the bus).

But all these features come at a cost. A brand new Apple Watch (series 5) costs upwards of £420 ($520), so many people feel priced out of the market.

Thankfully, pre-owned Apple watches are a lot kinder on the wallet. Furthermore, in many cases, they function just as good as new. However, you must do your research and purchase wisely. Below, I’ll show you how to buy a cheap/second-hand Apple watch.

Why buy a used Apple Watch?

There are many reasons why people opt for used Apple watches instead of brand new ones. For example:

Cost – Pre-owned smartwatches are, on average, 40% cheaper than new versions. So, you’ll have extra cash to spend on accessories, App subscriptions, and/or monthly LTE network costs.
No waiting – When Apple launches a new product, a lot of hype ensues. Consumers are usually given the chance to register their interest and pre-order the product. Whilst this is exciting, it can mean waiting weeks for your watch to arrive. However, if you focus your attention on pre-owned Apple watches instead, you won’t need to wait around for your product to arrive. Sometimes, it’s good not to be drawn into the hype!
No big investment, so no regrets – If, after a couple of months, you decide you don’t like your Apple Watch, it won’t be the end of the world. As mentioned, used Apple watches cost significantly less than new versions, so buying one is not such a huge commitment.

Things to be aware of when buying a used Apple Watch

Although there are many benefits to buying a pre-owned smartwatch, the process is not always straightforward. Unfortunately, it’s quite common for stolen Apple watches to be sold online. Also, counterfeit Apple goods are rife both online and offline. To protect yourself, keep the following tips in mind:

When buying an Apple watch, make sure the Activation Lock has been turned off by the seller. If the Activation Lock is still intact, you will not be able to pair your smartphone with the watch and it will be essentially useless. Ask the seller, and if they are not sure, ask them to turn the watch on. If the watch allows you to pair it with a new device, it is good to go. But, if it insists you enter iCloud credentials, this means the previous user still has the Activation Lock intact.
Unless the watch has been ‘refurbished’, it will probably not come with a warranty. If you are risk-averse, choose a refurbished watch (with warranty) rather than a pre-owned watch.
When buying online, try and choose a seller who will allow returns (in case the watch is faulty).
Some used watches will not come with a charging cable, so you may need to buy this separately.
If you are buying an old watch that has been well-used (I.e. 3-4 years old and/or used as a swimming watch), it may lose battery very quickly.

As long as you have an eagle-eye, buying a second-hand Apple Watch shouldn’t be too risky.

Best places to find cheap Apple watches

So, in my experience, there are at least 5 different places you can find Apple watches for a reduced price. Even when pre-owned, Apple watches are still going to cost a fair amount. However, if you look around, you can find a bargain. Second-hand Apple watches range from £80-£350+ ($100-$450) depending on the model and quality of the product.

1. Certified refurbished from the Apple Store

If you have a healthy budget but you cannot quite stretch to a brand-new watch, consider a ‘certified refurbished Apple Watch’ from the Apple store. On this site, Apple watches (series 3) start at around £189. Series 4 refurbished Apple watches start at around £380.

Because these watches are refurbished by an Apple-qualified professional, and they look almost as good as new, you certainly don’t get much of a saving. However, you will save a bit of money. This is a great choice for the risk-averse person because you’ll also receive:

14-day returns
One year limited warranty
Option to purchase AppleCare
Charging cable included

✔ Apple-certified, reliable and trustworthy.

X Expensive – you won’t save much compared to new.

2. Amazon renewed

In addition, Amazon renewed have their own version of the refurbishment programme which is almost as good as Apple’s. Although the person refurbing the watch is not an Apple employee, they are qualified to perform a full diagnostic test on the product, and Amazon regularly reviews their quality of service. During the refurb process, the seller will replace any defective parts and thoroughly clean the watch. Importantly, they also guarantee that the battery is at least 80% as powerful as the battery you’d find in a brand new Apple Watch. This is certainly a big plus!

If you buy an Apple watch through an Amazon renewed supplier, you will also be eligible for a replacement or refund within the first year if your product is faulty. You can also get troubleshooting support if there are any niggles with your product.

✔ One-year warranty and follow-up support.

X There aren’t many Apple watches sold through Amazon renewed suppliers, so you may have to wait for one to become available.

3. Refurbished Apple watches from other websites

As well as Apple and Amazon, several other companies offer refurbished Apple watches. For example, in the UK, there are stores like Music Magpie. These tend to be a bit more affordable, but do check what is included in the purchase price. I’d only purchase a refurbished watch if it offered some sort of warranty.

The darker coloured Apple watches tend to be the cheapest. If you’d like a brighter coloured/limited edition watch, but you don’t want to pay the price, buy one of the darker models and invest in an Apple Watch strap, instead.

✔ Cheap, refurbished Apple watches.

X Warranty may only last for a couple of months (if at all).

4. Apple watches on eBay

On eBay, you can buy second-hand Apple watches for approx. 40% cheaper than the normal price. In most cases, you’ll be buying the watch directly from the person who has previously used it.

There are a few benefits to this. Firstly, the seller can give you a detailed description of the watch and its functions. Secondly, the seller can remove the Activation Lock (and you’ll know who to contact in case this lock hasn’t been removed after purchase).

However, you may also come across some stolen/counterfeit/faulty goods on eBay. If your seller cannot answer your questions about the watch (and gives very generic answers), this is definitely a red flag.

Also, if the seller states “no returns”, it will be impossible to get a refund, even if the watch is faulty. When shopping on eBay, I always choose sellers who allow refunds (even if I have to cover the cost of the return shipping). In my mind, a seller who allows refunds is more likely to be genuine because they’re confident in the product they are selling.

✔ Lots of availability (series 1-5); Apple watches for all budgets.

X It can be hard to get your money back if something goes wrong.

5. Used Apple Watches on FB Marketplace

Facebook has a bit of a reputation for selling stolen goods. Whilst it’s not difficult to find dodgy listings on FB, there are also plenty of genuine sellers on there. This means it can be a great place to find an Apple Watch bargain. As long as you keep your wits about you.

According to Which, the most important thing to do when buying on Facebook is to check the seller’s profile. Do they have some photos on there? Are any of their photos tagged? Do they have some local friends (not just fake friends or global friends)? If so, this suggests they are genuine.

Facebook marketplace does not have a payment feature, so you’ll need to arrange payment outside of Facebook. It can be good to arrange a face-to-face sale because then you’ll get a chance to look, feel, and test the watch before purchase. However, always meet in a public place and/or take someone with you.

✔ In contrast to eBay, you can see personal information about the seller (I.e. their FB profile). This can help you gauge whether they are genuine or not.

X It’s not advisable to exchange money online so you should complete the sale in-person. This could be difficult to arrange if you live in a rural area, or if no one local is selling an Apple watch.

The best place to buy a used Apple Watch

Personally, my preferred place to buy used smartwatches is probably Amazon (via the renewed programme). The only problem is, you sometimes have to wait weeks or months for your chosen watch to become available.

My second choice would be eBay. This is because, generally speaking, you’ll be purchasing the watch from the person who has actually used the watch. Having said that, I would only buy from a seller who allows returns.

All sellers have their pros and cons. If you are still unsure where to buy your used Apple Watch, think about your main priority. Is it price? Is it peace of mind? Do you need to buy online, or can you meet the seller in-person?

Finally, if you don’t feel comfortable buying a used watch, why not consider a cheaper brand instead? There are plenty of reasonably priced smartwatches to choose from.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2: Inspiring Creativity

October 7, 2019 By Rachael Ban Leave a Comment

Launched in September 2019, Samsung’s Galaxy Active 2 hasn’t been around for long. But it has already created a buzz amongst consumers. In fact, this watch is tipped to be a contender for the Apple Watch (series 4).

Samsung says that, because this watch simplifies your life, you’ll have “more time to be creative”. I tend to agree because the functionality of this watch is seriously impressive. That said, let’s explore the functionality (and design) in a bit more detail.

1. Helps You Stay Connected

One of the best things about the Galaxy Active 2 is that it can connect to an LTE network (LTE version only). This means you make calls and texts from your watch even if you don’t have your smartphone with you. You can even access most of your apps independently of your phone.

Having said that, the LTE version of this watch is pretty pricey, so you might prefer the Bluetooth version. If you’re someone who carries their phone everywhere (and you have no desire to break this habit), the Bluetooth version will work just fine. If you go for this option, you’ll save around £200.

2. Slim and Lightweight

When the original Galaxy Active was released, it received generally positive reviews, but some people felt the watch was a bit thick. Since the latest upgrade, it’s fair to say that Samsung has significantly improved the weight and thickness of the watch. The Active 2 sits comfortably against the wrist and doesn’t feel clunky at all. As such, it is an ideal Samsung watch for women.

3. Minimalist Design

Remember we said that the Galaxy Active 2 inspires creativity? Well, this is partly thanks to its minimalist design. Because this watch is stylishly simple, it won’t distract you needlessly throughout the day. Nevertheless, it has all the functionality required to be the perfect ‘personal assistant.’

4. Automatic Workout Tracking

If you live an active lifestyle, you’ll really appreciate the automatic workout-tracking on the Active 2. It has to be said that the automatic workout-tracking isn’t quite as good as Apple’s. This is because you can’t pause or change the workout settings during a session; you have to wait until the session has ended. However, since most watches don’t offer automatic tracking, it’s still a great feature.

5. Real-time Running Coach

My favourite feature on this watch is the running coach. It provides you with real-time updates to improve your running performance. For example, your watch will tell you to speed up, improve cadence, etc. If you are looking for a running watch, the Galaxy Active 2 is a real winner!

6. Slick Navigation

The Galaxy Active 2 features a digital bezel. This is unlike previous models which had a traditional bezel. I really appreciate this upgrade because it means I can swipe through the apps quickly. Once again, it helps me get things done without any fuss.

7. Sophisticated HR Tracking (Coming Soon)

Unlike the original Galaxy Active, this watch has an in-built EEG sensor. This means that, in theory, it can detect atrial fibrillation (an irregular heartbeat). But, at present, consumers cannot access this data. This is presumably because Samsung is liaising with research institutions to ensure that their device is accurate enough. This is something to look forward to in the future. But, if you can’t stand the wait, Apple watches already offer this functionality.

What Others Think

Overall, I am really impressed with the Active 2, but I thought it would be useful to see what others think. We ran a focus group and asked people about their initial impressions of the watch. Here’s what they had to say:

“I like how it reminds me if I’ve sat still for too long.”

“I like how responsive the digital bezel is, but I do sometimes overshoot with my finger which can be a little annoying.”

“Sometimes I forget to record my runs and cycles. It’s great that this watch records any activity over 10 minutes automatically.”

“This watch doesn’t track sleep as well as my Fitbit. Also, I was disappointed to find that the EEG monitor isn’t working yet. I wonder how long we will have to wait for this?”

“The battery life is not great. Having said that, I like that the watch goes into power-saving mode if I don’t move my arm.”

“There aren’t many Apps available on Samsung watches, though at least I can get Map my Run, Twitter, and Uber.”

“It needs charging pretty much every day.”

Overall, people seem pretty impressed with the Galaxy Active 2. The biggest issues appear to be battery life and third-party apps.

Is the Galaxy Active 2 Worth the Hype?

Since its launch, the Active 2 has created a buzz. Though you might be wondering, is it really worth the hype? Well, I’d say it depends on what you are looking for in a smartwatch.

Want a smartwatch that will enhance your workouts? ✔

Looking for a watch to that will simplify your work/life? ✔

Do you want to stay connected without having to carry a phone? ✔

Want a thin, lightweight smartwatch? ✔

Happy to use a (very responsive) touchscreen? ✔

Need a smartwatch with great battery life? X

Use plenty of third-party apps? X

If you want a watch with plenty of third-party apps, Apple might be a better choice. And if battery life is really important to you, choose a watch like the Garmin Vivo active instead.

On balance, I think this watch is great for busy, active people who want to find the time to be more creative. Although this watch does have a hefty price tag, it may be worth it! After all, it has been said that creativity is the most important skill in the world!

Samsung Watches for Women

September 17, 2019 By Rachael Ban Leave a Comment

Woman drinking coffee wearing pink smartwatch.

For many years, smartwatches were mostly worn by men. But, in 2014, companies started to design smartwatches for women. In fact, one of the first companies to design female-friendly smartwatches was Samsung.

Nowadays, 50% of smartwatches owners are women, so there must be some great female-friendly offerings out there!

The Galaxy watch Active is often credited as being the most feminine Samsung watch. But several other Samsung watches look great on female wrists, too.

Below, I’ll let you know my top-5 Samsung watches for women.

1. Galaxy Watch (42mm)

The Galaxy Watch has been around for a couple of years, but it remains a firm favourite with female consumers. This watch is beautifully simple in design. Although it is bulkier than some other Samsung watches, it is still more discreet than most smartwatches on the market. This is especially true if you choose the 42mm model.

In terms of colour, you have the choice of Rose Gold (with a pink strap), Midnight Black, or Silver. The rose gold/pink combo is very feminine. If you are into more muted colours, you could opt for the silver clockface, and choose your own interchangeable strap (any standard 20mm watch strap should fit).

With regards to functionality, this watch does everything you expect of a smartwatch – and more! You can receive calls and texts and listen to your music via Spotify (without the need for your phone if you have wireless headphones). You can even make payments using Samsung Pay.

In terms of health tracking, you can track your daily activities and monitor your sleep. Amazingly, it also has built-in GPS and a rotating bezel. This makes it a great hiking watch.

So, if you want a stylish smartwatch/fitness tracker hybrid that won’t break the bank, the Galaxy Watch is a great option.

Pros

Comes in two sizes – 42mm or 46mm. The 42mm will suit thinner wrists.
Military-grade durability, so you can take it anywhere.
Inbuilt GPS, so it is a great hiking watch.
Wireless charging – so you don’t have to worry about charging cables!
It offers a good mix of smartwatch and fitness tracking features.

Cons

It is a little heavier and bulkier than some other Samsung watches.
The watch display is quite limited. Also, there is limited real-time feedback for activities.
It doesn’t measure heart rate.

2. Galaxy Watch Active

In many ways, the Galaxy Watch Active is an upgrade of the Galaxy Watch. Here are the benefits of upgrading:

The Galaxy Watch is thinner and more lightweight than the Galaxy Watch. This makes it a great running watch. It also looks better on very small wrists, so it is the ideal smartwatch for girls.
The Galaxy Watch has a Wellness Mode setting. It monitors stress levels and encourages you to practise proper breathing techniques throughout the day.
The watch comes in four rather than three colours.
It integrates several motivational apps such as C25K – making it a great fitness watch.

Many fitness fanatics prefer the Galaxy Watch Active to the Galaxy Watch. But, if you’re more interested in a smartwatch than a fitness tracking device, the Galaxy Watch may offer better value.

Pros

It has a slim and lightweight design, so it is ideal for female wrists.
Wireless charging, so you can leave the charging cables at home.
Displays motivational Apps. This is great for helping you achieve your health and fitness goals.

Cons

Although it is a great fitness watch, it doesn’t have a mechanical bezel, so it’s not great for navigation. If you do a lot of hiking, it might be better to opt for the Galaxy Watch or another watch with a mechanical bezel.

3. Galaxy Watch Active2 Bluetooth

This watch is a further upgrade to the Galaxy Watch Active. It is similar, but it offers a larger screen. Though, in increasing the size of the screen, its delicacy is not lost. It still remains a lightweight and discreet smartwatch for women.

On top of this, you also get Bluetooth functionality. This can be great for pairing Bluetooth-enabled devices such as headphones and your smartphone.

Pros

A larger screen, whilst still being thin.
Because it is lightweight, it is a great fitness tracker for women.
Uniquely, it offers Bluetooth functionality. If WIFI is not available, you can still connect to your phone (or other devices) via Bluetooth.

Cons

You cannot receive calls independent of your phone with the Bluetooth model alone (you’d need the 4G model connected to an LTE network).

4. Galaxy Watch Active2 4G

The functionality you get with this watch is incredible – but it is reflected in the price tag! At nearly £500, it’s no throw-away purchase.

So, what can the Galaxy Watch Active2 4G offer? Well, firstly, it is 4G-enabled so you can connect to an LTE network. This means you’ll be able to answer calls via your phone (even if your mobile isn’t close-by). You will also be able to stream music directly from your watch. Also, you watch will be able to run several Apps at once with ease.

One of the best features, though, is its real-time running coach. This watch will give you real-time feedback on your performance. So, it will tell you whether to slow down/speed up etc. This can be invaluable for achieving your fitness goals. Indeed, this watch has been made for the fitness-lovers and the health-conscious. It also has an Electrocardiogram so it can measure heart rate.

Women exercising and checking her heart rate on a smartwatch.

All in all, this watch is a close competitor to the Apple watch. So, if you are an Android user and you want one of the best smartwatches money can buy, this watch is for you!

Pros

It has a touch bezel for quick control
Also, it can handle multiple Apps without compromising performance
Real-time performance feedback during workout sessions.
Heart rate monitor

Cons

Unfortunately, it is significantly more expensive than the other models.

5. Samsung Gear Fit 2

This final offering from Samsung is less of a smartwatch and more of a fitness tracker. It really appeals to women because it has a sleek and stylish design. It also offers an array of great features such as:

An extremely accurate heart-rate monitor, so you can closely monitor your health.
Also, it can track cycles, runs, and elliptical workouts with precision.
Displays progress (i.e. Km travelled), so you’ll stay motivated throughout your workouts.
Finally, it has an adjustable strap, so it will fit even the tiniest wrists.

If are not too fussed amount receiving calls/texts or making payments, this could be a great option. It is the ideal first-time fitness tracker for women.

Samsung does offer more than the 5 watches mentioned in this article. For example, the Gear S3 Frontier and Gear S3 Classic remain popular. Although these are great watches, they are quite bulky and masculine in design. On balance, my favourite Samsung watch is the Galaxy Watch Active. Not only is it slim and lightweight, but it’s also durable, affordable, and offers an array of fitness tracking features!

5 Best Swimming Watches in 2019

August 23, 2019 By Rachael Ban Leave a Comment

man with swimming watch celebrating open swim

Lots of fitness watches claim to be suitable for swimmers, but very few actually are. This is because some ‘swimming watches’ are vulnerable to water damage. Also, whilst most swimming watches can record open water swims, few can record lane swims.

Having said that, there are some great swimming watches out there. And, if you want to improve your performance, it’s worth investing in one of these swimming watches.

The best watches for swimming — Swimming watches

What are the benefits of swimming watches?

If you’re new to fitness tracking, you might be wondering, “what’s the point of a swimming watch?” Well, a good swimming watch can do the following:

Track lengths – When swimming in a pool, it’s easy to lose count of how many lengths you’ve swum, so length tracking is a handy feature.
Length-by-length data – For example, swimming watches can tell you which lap you swam the fastest.
Technique monitoring – Some of the fancier watches will analyse your swimming technique. The watch will tell you if your stroke rate is too fast, too slow, or optimum.
Share your data – You can share and compare your fitness data with other swimmers. Swimming is a lone sport, so sharing your data can be motivational. It can also help you to build a supportive community.

So, whether you’re a doggy paddler or the next Michael Phelps, here are 4 swimming watches that will help you reach your goals

1. Garmin Swim

Specifically designed for swimming and open water activities, the Garmin swim is an excellent choice for this purpose. You can track your swimming with GPS and measure your heart rate, even underwater. It comes with all the usual activity tracking features of a Garmin watch and is fit for many other sports activities as well.

For the pool, it can can record your distance, pace and stroke efficiency. It can also help with your swimming drills. The Garmin Swim is designed for swimming and is lightweight, luminous and easy to work in the water. It could give you real time pacing alerts while swimming.

GPS mode allows up to 13 hours combined with heart rate measuring. Otherwise, it could last for up to 72 hours in pool mode and 72 hours with standard mode.

Pros:

Designed for swimming
Lightweight – Only 36g
5 ATM
Sunlight visible

Cons:

Slightly more expensive than other models at $249
Not necessarily a diving watch
No touch functions

2. Samsung Gear Fit 2 (Pro)

This is a versatile fitness tracker that is great for measuring swims. It is reliably water-resistant so there’s no chance of water damage (as long as you stick to surface swimming). Also, this watch can track lane swims as well as open water swims. This watch is compatible with the Speedo Swim App; an App that offers training plans, community support, and swimming tips! One of the best things about this watch is that you can see your data in real-time (i.e. laps swam), which can be really motivating.

Pros:

Water-resistant up to 50 meters (though it is marketed for surface swimming and light snorkelling only)
Smartphone notifications
Built-in GPS – so great for Triathlons
Slim and discreet design
4gb storage for music

Cons:

Battery life is 1-2 days – some comparable devices last up to 5 days.
It struggles to detect stair climbing (may not be an issue if you are only using it for swimming)

3. Garmin Forerunner 935/945

The Garmin Forerunner 935 /945 is an activity tracker that does it all. Though not specifically a swimming watch, many people prefer it to the Garmin Swim watch because it can do so much more. For example, it can track running, walking, hiking, and swimming, to name but a few sports. If you enjoy open swimming, you’ll really appreciate this watch because the in-built GPS and compass are useful for navigation.

Like many other swimming watches, it struggles to capture your heart rate whilst swimming. However, you can purchase a Garmin accessory which will accurately measure your heart rate whilst swimming.

Pros

It’s a multisport activity tracker
Water-resistant up to 165 feet – but it cannot be used for scuba diving or snorkelling
It provides advanced output data for swimming, running, and cycling – great for triathletes!

Cons

There may be some accuracy issues when measuring pool lengths – though these issues seem to have been resolved since the last update
A masculine design so probably not the best fitness tracker for women
This watch is pricey compared to the Gear Fit 2 Pro

4. Fitbit Charge 3

If you’re looking for a swimming watch from the Fitbit range, the Fitbit Charge 3 could be the one. This is a great little watch that can track all sorts of swimming data. It is slim and discreet so would be particularly suited to slender wrists. The only downside to the watch is that, unlike the Gear Fit Pro 2, it doesn’t show your swim data in real-time. So, you’ll have to dry off before you can see how many lengths you’ve swum. I actually prefer this because it helps me focus on my workout, but I can see how some people would prefer to see how many lengths they’ve swum in real-time. If you can live without this feature, I’d say the Fitbi t Charge 3 is great value for money. If you cannot live without this feature, the Fitbit Versa or Gear Fit Pro 2 are better options.

Pros

It’s very affordable, especially compared to other swimming watches
It’s a multisport activity tracker (though not as sophisticated as the Garmin Forerunner 945)
Offers detailed swim technique insights via the Fitbit App
7+ days battery life

Cons

It’s not an open water swimming watch
It doesn’t offer real-time updates, which is disappointing to some

5. Suunto Spartan Trainer Wrist HR

If you are a serious swimmer, then look no further than the Suunto Spartan Trainer. Suunto devices are extremely accurate fitness trackers targeted towards athletes (or amateur athletes!). This device is excellent for tracking swims, cycles, runs, hikes, etc. The best thing about it is that it is extremely lightweight, so it won’t slow you down. Although the design is fairly masculine, it’s a favourite amongst women because it is so lightweight. It is also resistant to 100 meters, which is quite unique for a swimming watch!

Pros

Precision is second to none
Inbuilt GPS so it can track a variety of activities
Good for pool and open water swimming
Extremely lightweight so it won’t get in the way of your front crawl

Cons

10 hours of battery life when in training mode. If battery life is your priority, choose the Fitbit Charge 3 instead.

Choosing a swimming watch

So, there you have four of the best swimming watches for 2019. On balance, the Fitbit Charge 3 is probably my favourite device. Not only does it offer great value for money, but it also encourages me to switch off and focus on my workout. Having said that, I also really appreciate the Suunto Spartan Trainer because it’s so precise.

As always, know what features you are looking for before you make a purchase.

Although the swimming watches mentioned in this article are water-resistant, they are not waterproof. So, none of these watches would be suitable for diving. If you want a watch that’s suitable for swimming and diving, look for a dedicated scuba diving watch instead.

Best Hiking Watches

August 8, 2019 By Rachael Ban Leave a Comment

During the last decade, hiking has exploded in popularity. This is partly due to the invention of hiking watches. Indeed, hiking watches are great because they help walkers feel safe in the mountains.

So, what are the best hiking watches? Well, a good hiking watch should have a barometer, altimeter, compass, and GPS/GLONASS. Also, it should be durable. The Garmin Fenix 5 and Suunto Traverse are market leaders, but there are a few other good options, too.

Trekking watches cost a premium so think about which features you want. And which you could leave behind! To help you on your way, I’ll compare 5 of the best hiking watches.

Woman hiker checking watch — Hiking watches

What to Look for in a Hiking Watch

A good hiking watch will not only capture your fitness data, but it will also help you navigate and forecast the weather. These additional features will keep you safe in the outdoors. So, when choosing a hiking watch, look for the following features:

Barometer – this detects changes in air pressure so it can tell you if a storm is on the way.
Altimeter – this shows you how high above sea level you are, which is very useful for navigation.
Compass – Again, a compass is useful for navigation. In conjunction with a map, you can use a compass to find your exact location.
GPS or GLONASS – GPS tracks your location. And GLONASS is the most advanced version of GPS available. When combined with an altimeter and barometer, GPS/GLONASS is extremely accurate.
Heart-rate monitor – this allows you to monitor your heart rate (HR) and avoid exertion too early in a hike.
Maps – Most hiking watches display basic GPS maps, but one watch even displays topographic maps (paper-style maps).
Hard-wearing design – Hikers are out in all weathers, so they need a watch that’s built to last. Some watches have a Sapphire glass covering, which is near impossible to scratch.

With that in mind, here are 5 hiking watches that are packed full of useful features.

1. Garmin Fenix 5

When it comes to hiking watches, the Garmin Fenix 5 is the market leader. It is extremely accurate at measuring location and predicting the weather. As such, it can keep you safe in unpredictable terrain.

One of the best features is that you can view pre-loaded topographic maps. This is a distinguishing feature because most hiking watches only display barebones maps. Topographic maps are much better for navigating, so you’re less likely to get lost.

Another great thing about this watch is that it can connect to your smartphone camera. So, you can position your smartphone on a rock, and then gather together for a group photo. When it’s time to say ‘cheese’, you can take the photo directly from your wrist. So, if you have a Garmin Fenix 5, no one needs to be left out of the photo.

Pros

Multi-sport tracking – this watch can track all your hobbies, so there is no need to buy additional devices.
Very durable and hard-wearing – If you are willing to splash the cash, you could even invest in the Sapphire glass model.
Supports GLONASS – as mentioned, this is the latest location-tracking technology. If you want to map your location and altitude with precision, you won’t be disappointed with this watch.
Storm alerts – as you’ll know, weather can change pretty quickly on the mountains. If you download the weather forecast app, you’ll receive storm alerts, so you can reroute or turn back.
3 Sizes – although this watch is quite bulky (to accommodate all the hardware), it does come in 3 different sizes.
Maps – as mentioned, topographic maps are a distinguishing feature.

Cons

Battery life – this watch has around 20 hours of battery life in full GPS mode. This isn’t great, but it is comparable with most other GPS watches.
Buttons – this watch has buttons rather than a touch screen which some people find irritating.
Price – because the Garmin Fenix is feature-packed, it does have a hefty price tag.

2. Garmin Vivoactive 3

The Garmin Vivoactive 3 is not, strictly speaking, a hiking watch, but it can be used to track casual hikes of less than 8 hours. It includes some of the features of the Fenix but it costs less. Like the Fenix, it is a great multi-sport watch, so it’s perfect if you have multiple hobbies.

So, what’s so good about the Garmin Vivoactive 3? Well, it has GPS and GLONASS to track location, distance, and pace. It also has a barometric altimeter to accurately map altitude. As mentioned, this is useful for accurate navigation. Also, the weather app and sunrise/sunset alerts are great safety features.

One of the downsides of this watch is that it cannot display topographic maps. It is also not as durable as the Fenix 5. Finally, because it doesn’t have a dedicated trekking mode, it might not capture/show all the relevant data. But, if you have an android phone, you can download an app like Hike 2 to make sure all your hiking data is captured.

All in all, this watch is ideal if you are a causal hiker with multiple hobbies, and you want a reasonably priced fitness watch.

Pros

Affordable – this is a mid-range fitness watch and offers great value for money.
Multisport watch – so it can track swimming, yoga, running, and gym workouts.
Smartwatch features – this watch offers smartphone alerts and Garmin Pay.
Lightweight – this watch is lighter than the Fenix and many other hiking watches, so it’s an ideal running watch, too.

Cons

Battery life – The battery life is not quite as good as the Fenix 5. It offers 13 hours in GPS mode and 7 days in smartwatch mode. It is fine for the causal hiker, though.
No hiking mode – There is no inbuilt hiking mode with the watch. Although additional apps can be downloaded, people new to fitness tracking might find this difficult.

3. TomTom GPS Multisport

This is a great mid-range watch for outdoorsy people. It has a sleek and stylish design. Also, because it is lightweight, it would not look too bulky on a slender wrist. Although it doesn’t offer as many features as the Garmin Fenix 5, it is easier on the eye, and more comfortable on the wrist.

As you’d expect, it has GPS to measure location and a barometer to measure air pressure. It does not have a GLONASS sensor so it may not measure location and altitude as accurately as the Garmin devices, but it is still pretty accurate.

This watch is great for cautious explorers. This is because you can upload a chosen route and the watch will give you a breadcrumb trail to follow. This is a fun way of ‘navigating’ if you are new to hiking.

Like many hiking watches, it’s a ‘multisport’ device so it can measure lots of sports in addition to hiking. In fact, if you are into skiing and snowboarding, you will find this watch particularly useful. This is because the barometer can accurately measure ski lift versus downhill run time.

So, all in all, this watch is great for outdoorsy types that like hiking and other winter sports. Having said that, if you are very serious about hiking and navigation, you may find the HIKE features a little simple.

Pros

Stylish and lightweight design – so it’s particularly suited to women.
Multisport features – it’s especially suited to winter sports enthusiasts.
Stores up to 500 songs -this is a great feature if you like listening to songs or podcasts on your long walks.

Cons

No maps – to be specific, it doesn’t have topographic maps.
Battery life – again, the battery life isn’t great (up to 20 hours on HIKE mode)
No GLONASS – So, it may not measure altitude and location as accurately as some other devices.

4. Suunto Traverse

Suunto watches are renowned for their accuracy and reliability. Any watch in the Suunto range would make a good trekking watch but the Traverse is particularly good.

Why is this? Well, it has an altimeter, barometer, and GLONASS sensor to map your location and altitude with precision. It also has a compass to help with navigation, as well as a thermometer. The thermometer and barometer can be used to predict weather changes. So, with all these features, you know you’ll be safe in the mountains.

The Traverse isn’t a multisport watch, so it doesn’t offer a bunch of other settings. Neither is it a smartwatch, so it doesn’t offer payment features. But because of all this, the hardware is nice and light, so it has a minimalist and chic design.

If you want very detailed fitness information, you might be better off going for the Suunto Ambit 3 Peak. Similarly, if you want a multisport device, the Suunto Ambit 3 Peak, or one of the Garmin watches will be a better choice.

But, if you are more interested in the joy of hiking than monitoring your fitness, the Traverse offers great value for money.

Pros

Lightweight and stylish design – so, the watch can be worn 24/7 if you want.
Great battery life – up to 100 hours in GPS mode and 14 days in regular mode!
GLONASS sensor – To track your location with precision.

Cons

Minimal fitness tracking – it might not offer enough fitness data for the keen athlete.
Not a multisport watch – so, it’s not great for people with multiple hobbies.

5. Casio PRG-600-1ER

As we’ve seen, one of the biggest problems with hiking watches is the poor battery life (except perhaps the Suunto Traverse which has 100 hours in GPS mode). GPS/GLONASS is such a great feature to have in a hiking watch, but it does run the battery down. So, these watches aren’t that practical for multi-day hikes.

The CASIO PRG 600-1ER doesn’t have in-built GPS. At first glance, you might think it’s not even worth considering a hiking watch that doesn’t have GPS. But, don’t be too quick to judge.

Firstly, this watch is solar powered so it’s unlikely that you’d ever run out of power. This is a huge benefit if you hike for days at a time.

Secondly, it forces you to navigate in the traditional way. It comes equipped with a barometer, altimeter and compass so it’s still a great piece of kit.

So, if you are learning to navigate, or you are already a very confident navigator, the Casio PRG 600 might be a great option for you.

Pros

Solar-powered – this watch charges via sunlight (even dim light) so you don’t need to worry about finding a charge point.
Good quality hardware – Casio watches are very high quality and durable.
Training tool – because this watch doesn’t have GPS/GLONASS, you can practice old school navigation skills. This means you won’t rely too heavily on technology, which is important for staying safe as a hiker.

Cons

Cannot track routes – because there is no GPS, your routes are not automatically stored in the app.
Needs calibrating – in GPS watches, the altimeter is automatically calibrated via GPS. Calibration will need to be done manually, on a regular basis.
Price – considering it doesn’t have GPS, some people consider this watch to be overpriced.

Choosing a Trekking Watch

If you are still feeling a bit uncertain, ask yourself the following:

Do you want your watch to record your routes automatically so you can view them later? If so, choose a watch with GPS/GLONASS, such as the Garmin Fenix 5, Garmin Vivosport, or Suunto Traverse.

When you are hiking, do you want to know your exact altitude? If the answer is yes, the Garmin devices and Suunto Traverse are best for this. The TomTom and Casio may not be as accurate.

Need a watch with great battery life? Choose the Suunto Traverse or Casio. And if you want a multisport device, choose the Fenix 5, Vivoactive, or TomTom.

Finally, if you’d like a watch that displays topographic maps, there is no better choice than the Garmin Fenix 5.

Most people would agree that the Garmin Fenix 5 is the market leader, but it’s not necessarily the right watch for you. Hopefully, this article has opened your eyes to 5 great hiking watches – each promising in their own right. So, which one will you choose?