SuperWatches

Super Smartwatches and Wearables

Roxana Bikfalvi

Nike FuelBand: A simple but highly motivational fitness monitor

A pioneer in the fitness tracking industry, Nike FuelBand truly made some waves and revolutionised the world when it was first released, back in 2012. That’s why we can’t help but wonder why Nike discontinued it after a mere three years and two versions later.

Nike FuelBand wasn’t the first fitness tracker on the market – it was launched after the first Fitbit – but it was the first to make fitness tracking feel personal rather than abstract, with its ingenious Fuel Points system. Even if no one ever really knew what Nike’s metrics meant.

Five years after the brand discontinued its production, the FuelBand still makes waves. People who bought it are still wondering how to reactivate and whether they can keep using their bracelet. New users wonder if they can still find one to buy somewhere.

In short, they can. Nike still sales the Nike FuelBand SE, the upgraded version of the first model that is as popular as its predecessor. But what is all this hype about? Read our Nike FuelBand review to find it out.

Background

Nike designed its first FuelBand with a noble purpose in mind. That of making more people ditch the couch in favour of movement.

Motivation laid in the possibility to compare your performance with that of members of the FuelBand community.

While the idea had huge success, design flaws caused the actual bracelet to fail constantly.

As a response, Nike replaced the original FuelBand with the FuelBand SE shortly after, advertising it as a smart, fun, and simple way to get more active.

While there are no later versions of the band, the SE model is still available in many sports and fitness stores.

Features

At its core, the Nike FuelBand SE is a pedometer meant to track your total daily steps and motivate you for staying active. It does so by displaying rainbows of colours on its screen while a cartoon guy jumps for you enthusiastically each time you reach your goal.

Childish?

Definitely. But it works wonderfully for hoards of people. You even get a banner on your Nike app to celebrate the achievement, not to mention that the banner is even displayed at NikePlus.com.

As an addition to the original FuelBand functionality, the SE also allows you to track exercise sessions, giving incentives and reminding you that you have to move through fun reminders. Undeniably, an excellent choice for most office workers and freelancers who forget to get up from the office chair and take a few steps around the desk to boost their health.

Design

Like most fitness trackers, the FuelBand SE is minimal, but it won’t pass unnoticed. A simple construction makes it very easy to snap on and off your wrist, but due to its solid nature, you can’t adjust it.

It works as it’s supposed to do even if you can’t achieve a snug fit, but some users may find it uncomfortable. The device comes in several styles, including a more fashionable, transparent variant.

A simple interface makes it very easy to set goals and achieve them. The bracelet’s motivational nature shows off from the first use, displaying a big GO on the screen. Once you’ve reached your goal, Nike sends a message to your account automatically, with a cute cartoon figurine performing a celebratory dance.

I don’t know about you, but that dance alone gives me sufficient reasons to wear the bracelet and reach daily goals.

Setting up the bracelet and syncing it with the NikePlus account is relatively easy, despite it coming with no instructions whatsoever.

Fitness Tracking

The FuelBand SE is essentially a pedometer, and even if it can track other activity too, most people still use it for this basic function alone. Surprisingly accurate, it records all your steps and transforms them into Fuel Points.

After so many years, it’s still completely unknown what criteria Nike uses to convert the steps, but you can rest assured that all your activity is counted during the conversion.

Besides scoring points, the band also shows you how many calories you’ve burnt throughout the day, by simply pressing a button on the bracelet.

To boost your motivation, the tracker also displays a colourful line that changes its colour from red to green as you progress throughout the day. For easier reading of this vital information, the FuelBand adjusts its brightness automatically, based on the ambient light.

Nike FuelBand Advantages

  • Motivational, very fun to use fitness band that can truly make you get up and start exercising.
  • Automatic syncing with your devices thanks to the Bluetooth 4.0 integration.
  • The bracelet has a solid, sturdy build that can withstand wear and tear beautifully.
  • Very accurate recording of the number of steps you’ve taken throughout the day.
  • Tracking your goals and competing against other members of the NikePlus community can enhance your activity level and overall health.

Nike FuelBand Disadvantages

  • Functionality is very basic. Don’t expect a heart rate or sleep monitor.
  • While it could work with an Android device, the band is only truly compatible with Apple handsets.
  • Sizing the band is a sort of miss and hit, as there is no way to adjust it to a snug fit.

Verdict

It may never become clear what determined Nike to stop producing the FuelBand. Perhaps it was the arrival of the Apple Watch – it is notorious that the two companies collaborated in the manufacturing of the band. Or maybe the technical glitches and mishaps the users complained about.

Nike FuelBand doesn’t deliver many workout tracking possibilities. Nevertheless, it truly knows how to motivate.

Seeing that cute guy dancing at the end of the day may easily become a goal. After all, who cares about some drawbacks and lack of super-tech features if the band manages to get you moving? If that’s your real aim, rest assured the FuelBand lives up to expectations.

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Movo Wave – A cheap fitness band, but is it worth the hype?

Movo Wave

In a world of smartwatches, there are only two reasons to go for a fitness band. Either it’s packed with an impressive number of sensors that can track your slightest movement, or it’s very, very cheap. The Movo Wave falls in the latter category. Catering to fitness enthusiasts on a budget, it’s cheaper than most high-street smartwatches, and undeniably more performing than a low-end wearable improperly named smart. Now, if we got your attention, read our Movo Wave review to find out more about it.

Background

Since its launch back in 2015, Movo Wave had a sole purpose. That of serving consumers on a budget, who still wanted to get a more accurate glimpse of their athletic performance. It has basic functionality and no bells and whistles, but it does what it’s supposed to do brilliantly.

Considering the disposable nature of fitness bands, the brand didn’t come up with a second generation of the wearable. Nevertheless, the first generation Movo Wave still brings some advantages, including a slim profile.

Features

Movo Wave is unremarkable in both design and functionality, but the truth is that you don’t need a fitness band packed with features to understand your daily habits.

In setting a very low price, Movo has managed to undercut even the most affordable devices prior to Wave, such as the Misfit Flash, which is worth saying that it’s a great achievement.

So what are you getting for the stripped down price? It is obvious that a stripped down device and app, but it still packs the basics.

In other words, Movo Wave focuses on lifestyle and simplicity rather than the data-driven world. It doesn’t connect with your handset automatically – although it is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. Lacking connectivity features, it requires users to download the data into their phones through the headphone jack.

Does this make you feel like you’ve turned back to the early 2000s? Definitely. But there is a price to pay if you can’t afford or don’t want to buy a more expensive bracelet.

The mobile app is stripped too. It has a very basic layout that shows you the daily metrics. Don’t expect bells and whistles, but it’s functional.

Design

To define Movo Wave’s aesthetics, you have to think of the festival or concert bracelets that show you’ve paid the ticket. It consists of a simple silicone band with the tracking device fixed atop your wrist. It’s neither ugly nor beautiful, but it’s really lightweight.

It is also comfortable to wear, so you can easily forget that it’s there. To add some aesthetic value, the brand equipped the device with colourful elastic bands that help secure it to your body. There is nothing exceptional about them, but you could use them to match the Wave to your outfit, for a more glam look.

As you’d expect from a fitness tracker, it’s water resistant. Furthermore, it impresses with a battery life measured in weeks rather than days. There is no battery indicator, but a red light will start flashing when it needs more juice.

Fitness Tracking

We said it already. Movo Wave doesn’t excel in terms of features and abilities. It can only track your steps, calories, and distance, but it does so with utmost accuracy.

All you have to do to see your metrics is to download the Movo app and sync the bracelet by connecting it to your phone’s audio jack. While the app is basic, it still gives you the possibility to pair each day’s metrics with a photo, to create a so-called“life log.”

A thing we like less is that you can’t sync the data with any other apps, such as diet plans or sports profiles. Thus, this might not be the best fitness tracker for athletes and hard-core fitness enthusiasts.

Movo Wave Advantages

  • The silicone bracelet fits like a hair tie on the wrist and is very lightweight. You can easily forget that you’re wearing it.
  • Minimal yet functional features make it possible to track some of the most important activity metrics for a really low price.
  • Colourful bands – coming in red and black – allow you to match it with your sports outfit.
  • Easy to sync with Android and Apple devices, even if it doesn’t sync data automatically. The app is also very intuitive and easy to use.
  • Outstanding battery life. You can get up to two weeks of continuous runtime.

Movo Wave Disadvantages

  • This fitness bracelet incorporates basic features only, and you can’t create or add sports profiles.
  • No sleep or stress level tracking, which defies the purpose of a health and fitness tracking device.
  • It lacks Bluetooth connectivity, so you have to remind yourself constantly to sync the data.

Verdict

Movo Wave is an excellent choice for casual gym goers and people who want to monitor some of their activity, but don’t really care about numbers. It is perfect above all for those who want to lose some weight and that see the fitness tracker like a disposable rather than indispensable item.

This fitness bracelet is primitive to say the least. Many other bands deliver more versatility for just a few more quid. However, if you only want to know how much you’re moving in a day and don’t care at all about other bells and whistles, then Movo Wave is certainly the way to go.

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Moto360 – A Revived Wear OS for 2020

Launched in 2019, the new Moto360 is standing proof that dead wearables can rise from the grave. The main difference between it and its previous versions? The new Moto360 doesn’t come from the renowned brand. This fresh variant, though, is here to stay. Curious to find out more? Read our Moto360 review below.

Background

Anyone with an interest in smartwatches and a good memory can remember the hype around the 1st and 2nd generation Moto360. The wearable went out of production in 2016, when Motorola decided they had no interest in the smartwatch market. So, how did it come back?

Easy answer. The new Moto360 doesn’t come from Motorola. It is manufactured by eBuyNow eCommerce Ltd, who bought the right to use the brand name and logo for this smart timepiece.

Fundamentally, the new Moto360 maintains the same operating system as the old one. New technologies incorporated into the design, as well as a visual makeover, make it a more attractive option than its older version. Furthermore, a variety of colours appeal to both men and women. No doubt, a watch that will make itself noticed on your wrist.

Features

The new Moto360 is the 3rd generation smartwatch manufactured under Motorola’s name, and even if the actual manufacturer changed, both the hardware and software follow the same line set up by its predecessors. It incorporates upgrades, obviously, so you can expect the last generation Wear OS from Google, as well as improved hardware.

The heart of this wearable is the Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 3100 SoC, that, combined with the 1GB of RAM and 8GB of storage, deliver unrivalled performance.

Like Fossil smartwatches, Moto360 boasts a circular dial that integrates a 42mm AMOLED display. A resolution of 360 x 360 pixels brings it in-line with heavyweight names, such as Samsung and Apple.

Battery life is not outstanding, but the 355mAh battery still delivers sufficient juice for a full day of use. As for functionality, you can expect the usual notifications on the wrist, app browsing, and even NFC payments.

Design

Overall, the smartwatch is slim and elegant. It may still look awkward on slender wrists, given the size of its dial and thickness of the band. Thus, it’s not the go-to choice for the ladies looking for a more discreet wearable.

Sporty type women might like it, though, especially the white variant that adds a wealth of visual appeal.

You can wear it with either leather or rubber straps – both included in the package. They are interchangeable, making  it super-easy to pair with formal attire or wear for a run.

Moving on to the watch face, you can opt for a classic face design with analogue dial and traditional hour and minute hands. An always-on display enhances this classy look that can instantly turn into a contemporary, sporty one, as soon as you start using its tracking features.

Fitness Tracking

Moto360 is geared towards general users rather than athletes. Thus, it doesn’t come with pre-loaded sports profiles or other athletic bells and whistles. This doesn’t mean that it’s not a good gym companion. On the contrary.

Casual users may find all they need crammed in this lovely design. Most fitness and athletic activities are tracked with the help of the acclaimed Google Fit software. Expect basics, such as heart rate monitor and step counter.

The intelligent coach also allows you to set up various sports profiles such as running, treadmill training, cross-training, and more.

While you can’t register swim laps, the device is resistant to 3ATM, so you won’t have to take it off at the pool or when it’s raining.

Something we miss is the sleep tracker as well as a stress monitor. On the bright side, the watch comes with built-in GPS and Google Maps, so you can pin down your route, find your way, and track your movements should you want to.

Moto360 Advantages

  • The new Moto360 designs stays true to the original lines, but brings new hardware and updated software to the table.
  • Particularly suitable for people using an Android handset, as you can easily sync all your accounts and access them from your wrist.
  • A wide variety of apps include access to Gmail and Google Drive, even on the go.
  • Two straps, a leather and a silicone one, come with the watch as standard. You can easily switch from one to another for a more athletic or elegant look.
  • Large display and impressive resolution for a Wear OS smartwatch.
  • Super-intuitive and easy to use. Integrated GPS and NFC payments bring more value for money.

Moto360 Disadvantages

  • Expensive compared to its peers. Moto360’s price is comparable to top-of-the-range smartwatches, such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch or the Apple Watch 5.
  • Interface and design have no particular bells and whistles. Don’t expect it to wow you with its functionality.
  • The AMOLED display is not as vibrant or bright as the display of watches such as Samsung or Apple, despite the high resolution.

Verdict

Back from the dead, the Moto360 will be the year’s highlight for all Motorola fans. The wearable may not be manufactured by the renowned company anymore, but it still maintains the iconic logo and stays true to the original Moto design.

It is average in terms of features and functionality, but it still crams a wealth of things under its hood. Expect reliable fitness tracking with Google Fit, notifications on your wrist, access to apps such as Google Maps, as well as GPS tracking and contactless payments.

Is it worth it? If you’re a hard-core Motorola fan, certainly. For everyone else, opting for a range-topper such as the Samsung or the Apple watch – or even one of the Garmin smartwatches – will surely bring more value for money.

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Nike+ Sportwatch: A capable, GPS-enabled wearable powered by TomTom

Runners

Nike is notorious for partnering with big brand names for producing wearables. After the huge popularity of its fitness band, the Nike+ Sportwatch appeals to seasoned runners and those with a high interest in fitness and athletic performance.

Designed and manufactured in collaboration with TomTom, this smartwatch has it all. But can it compete with peers such as Garmin Forerunner or the Fitbit? Read our Nike+ Sportwatch review to find it out.

Background

Nike never claimed the Nike+ Sportwatch is the offspring of the FuelBand – the two have little in common, after all. Yet, the success of the FuelBand has likely inspired the brand to come up with another wearable.

Like its predecessor, the Sportwatch doesn’t burst with features. It has a simple functionality that focuses exclusively on one thing alone. This timepiece was built with runners in mind, and it won’t bring too many benefits to other athletes.

That said, it does bring a breath of fresh air compared to the FuelBand – albeit there is no cute guy dancing for you when reaching a daily goal.

Features

If you buy a Nike+ Sportwatch and expect to find a feature-crammed gadget, chances are you’ll be more than disappointed. Nike stays true to its tradition of not making overly functional devices.

This could seem counterproductive in today’s world, but it’s actually a good thing, because the watch does what it’s supposed to do while remaining very easy to use.

The gadget is made in collaboration with sat nav heavyweight name TomTom. It obviously is GPS-enabled, and you can rest assured the GPS is highly accurate.

Needless to say, the Sportwatch uses the GPS function to track your speed, pace, distance, and burnt calories.

Connecting with your mobile devices, it allows you to share your session details online, either with your friends or with your virtual training community.

A thing that makes it stand out from the crowd is the smart shoe pod that goes into the Nike+-ready shoe sole and records your metrics on those instances when the GPS signal fails. If you don’t own a pair of such fancy sneakers, and don’t plan to buy one, the tracker can also be fastened to your running shoe laces with a small carrier you can buy from the brand.

This simple feature gains some points for Nike+ over Garmin’s Forerunner 410, which doesn’t track too much when satellite signal is unavailable.

Design

Brands rarely regard the aesthetic factor when building sports watches. Yet, Nike managed to make this wearable more attractive than others.

Its lines are inspired by the Apple Watch, albeit in a very rudimentary manner. The result is a sports watch with smoother lines and a hint of aesthetic appeal.

It’s not beautiful, but you can wear it with casual attire, too, without feeling like you’ve just left the gym.

The display is large enough to easily spot the time and metrics at a glance, but don’t expect fancy colours or AMOLED features. You’ll get a robust watch, though, that can withstand elements run after run and season after season.

Fitness Tracking

Did I say this is a sports watch for runners? Of course I did. So, don’t expect other fancy fitness tracking features. What you will get is the possibility to set up laps or interval workouts based on time or distance.

One big knock against the Nike+ is that you can’t change its training settings on the fly, but will have to connect it to a computer for the purpose. This is a huge negative, especially for athletes looking to do speedwork ladders and other similar workouts.

At least you’ll get a big high-five on the screen and the possibility to see your training metrics directly on the watch when the session’s over, in true Nike style.

Nike+ Sportwatch Advantages

  • Very easy to use GPS-enabled sports watch. Majorly designed for runners, although a recent firmware update added a cycling mode, too.
  • NikePlus website awaits you with a lively community of avid runners – the perfect place for finding daily motivation.
  • The smartwatch motivates you as well, by displaying a virtual high-five each time you reach your training goals.
  • A selection of bands and fairly fashionable design enhance value for money.
  • Very easy to configure and use straight out of the box.
  • The TomTom technology ensures accurate tracking of your speed, pace, and distance. A shoe pod takes over the GPS function when satellite signal is unavailable.
  • Nike+ Sportwatch is completely waterproof and suitable to use in all weather conditions.

Nike+ Sportwatch Disadvantages

  • No fitness tracking features apart from running and cycling.
  • Pretty basic design with grey, monochromatic screen and limited information displayed.
  • You have to connect the smartwatch to a laptop or PC for any changes you want to make.

Verdict

Nike didn’t intend to wow users with a super-smart watch when it launched the Sportwatch. It didn’t even try to address a wider pool of athletes.

The Nike+ is the running watch par excellence, competing with names like Garmin Forerunner, but without focusing on taking shares of market from the advanced multisport watches like the Polar.

What Nike wanted to do – and actually did – was to create a watch capable to gain users through its simple functionality. It delivers almost everything a runner needs at a low price point.

We must admit that in a world full of smartwatches, this was a smart strategy. Nike+ Sportwatch does its job well, is simple, cheap, and works for most runners. No doubt, a running watch to try if you want reliability at an affordable price.

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Smartwatch Gift Ideas – The Best 5 Wearables for Him and Her

Smartwatches for him and her

Finding the perfect gift for a birthday, Christmas, Valentine’s, or any other occasion is certainly daunting. Whether you’re looking for the perfect present for him or her, the five smartwatch gift ideas below could inspire you. Check them out.

1. Apple Watch Series 5

The perfect smartwatch gift ideas for Apple addicts
Apple watch 5

What better way to satisfy an Apple enthusiast than with an Apple watch? Not any watch, that is, but THE Apple Watch. Series 5 is currently the ultimate watch from the renowned brand, impressing with an array of features.

It comes in two sizes and has a stylish, unisex design. However, it doesn’t really matter who you’re getting it for – rest assured it will fit perfectly on anyone’s wrist.

We have to admit that it’s hard to find another watch with so many functions crammed into such a compact design. Smart notifications vary from general smartphone alerts to social media and notifications from various apps. Acting as a motivational coach, it also integrates sports profiles and lets you access workout videos.

Music storage and control, as well as compatibility with music streaming apps, make it easy to listen to your favourite tunes on the go. The smartwatch also impresses with its always-on display and over 100 customisable faces. Honestly, what more could you wish for?

2. Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2

Just the right smartwatch gift ideas for all Samsung enthusiasts

The Galaxy Watch Active 2 is undeniably the best smartwatch gift for the Samsung addict in your life. It’s just as stylish as the Apple Watch, but with a round face rather than a square one.

galaxy active smart watch

Its unisex design makes it an inspired choice for gents and ladies alike, while two sizes let you fit the watch diameter with the wearer’s wrist. Comfortable to wear all day long, it comes with either aluminium or stainless steel case and a variety of bands, cases, and finishes.

Smart features include all you’d expect from the last generation smartwatch, while the fitness tracking capabilities are superlative. Expect it to monitor your heart rate and overall health, sleep, as well as the daily activity.

Music streaming and control and contactless payments on your wrist are other highlights, and you can expect the battery to last for up to five days on a single charge. No doubt, one of the best smartwatch gifts around.

3. Fitbit Versa 2 Health & Fitness Smartwatch

A budget-friendly gift for fitness enthusiasts

Looking for affordable smartwatches gift ideas? Then the Fitbit Versa 2 could be the wearable you were looking for. It’s perfect for fitness-oriented individuals who want to keep an eye on their athletic performance or overall goals.

Fitbit Charge 2

Versa 2’s design is inspired by the iconic Apple Watch but comes at a fraction of the cost. Designed with health and fitness in mind, it can track your daily activity, heart rate, sleep, as well as pace, distance, and burnt calories.


Shop Fitbit Versa Lite Online

It also delivers calls, texts, calendar alerts, and other smartphone notifications on the wrist. Like the more expensive models above, it’s compatible with Pandora, Deezer, and Spotify, so you can listen to your favourite tunes on the go.

Built-in Alexa also gives you quick access to news and weather forecasts, and you can even use the watch to set timers, alarms, or control smart home devices. Affordable but by no means cheap, it also impresses with its sleek, unisex lines that suit both men and women.

4. Garmin vívoactive 3

Garmin Vivoactive 3
One of the best sports watches for athletes

Garmin is one of the most renowned makers of smartwatches for athletes, so the athlete in your life will surely love the vívoactive 3. Packing a wealth of features at a more than affordable price tag, this is Fitbit’s alternative dedicated to the pros.

A wealth of fitness and activity tracking features make it a winner. The VO2 max and 15 pre-loaded sports profiles make it a great choice for most people. It’s not particularly suited for ladies, but it’s still considered unisex.

Thousands of free faces and interchangeable bands make it easy to customise, while an array of apps and widgets make it super-easy to monitor the desired activity and keep an eye on the most important notifications.

As you’d expect from a best-in-class smartwatch, it comes with contactless payments on your wrist, courtesy of Garmin Pay, and it connects with both Android and iOS phones. Built-in GPS and suitability for swimming, yoga, running, and even golf are just some of the other features we like – and you can bet the gift receiver will like them too.

5. Fossil Gen 5 Carlyle Stainless Steel Smartwatch

The perfect smartwatch gift idea for men

Are you looking for the perfect smartwatch for your sweetheart, dad, brother, or a co-worker? Then check out the Fossil Gen 5 Carlyle. This stainless steel smartwatch packs incredible functionality and stylish looks and is perfect for the elegant guy who needs a smartwatch.

A selection of interchangeable bands lets you choose from stainless steel, leather, and silicone, for either classic or sporty look. Powered by Google’s Wear OS, it works with both Android and iPhones.

Built-in GPS makes it easy to track your daily activity, while the swimproof design is perfect on those times when you’d like to swim some laps or jump directly in the shower without taking the watch off.

Smart features include a variety of notifications. You can answer calls on your wrist, interact with the Google Assistant, or do some shopping without worrying too much about your wallet thanks to the Google Pay. Timeless and elegant, this is one of the best smartwatches gift ideas for men.

Summary

Whether it’s for him or for her and regardless of the occasion, we hope the smartwatches gift ideas above inspired you. Now, all you have to do is get the preferred smartwatch, wrap it in gift paper, and surprise that special one in your life!

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Women’s Watches Under $500 – A Brief Overview of The Best Models Around

womens watch

Check out the best women’s watches under $500 in our rundown. Getting ready for work, gym, a date, or even a girls’ night out is certainly hard for most women. Picking the right outfit, matching accessories, and appropriate makeup takes time and consideration. You could speed up the process by choosing timeless accessories that pair with most garments, such as a stylish wristwatch.

But with so many choices out there how can you find the right one?

1. Michael Kors Access Lexington 2 Smartwatch

The best women’s watches under $500 for fashionistas

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, and even if this smartwatch by Michael Kors is not embellished with real diamonds, it’s hard to deny its beauty. Access Lexington 2 is elegance concentrated into a surprisingly functional gadget.

Nothing betrays its smart nature, from the rich watch face decorated with an oversized logo to the absolutely brilliant band. All it takes, though, is a touch to reveal the hidden functionalities. Lexington 2 is a capable smartwatch designed to stay on your wrist wherever you go.

It runs the acclaimed Wear OS by Google and works with both Android and iPhones. Perks include smartphone notifications and alerts, built-in fitness tracker, music storage and control, as well as Google Pay.

With an estimated battery life of about one day in normal mode, or up to three days in low power mode, and water resistance up to 5ATM, this watch is much more than stylish. In summary, it is a hybrid timepiece with top-of-the-range smart features ideal for all fashionistas.

2. Michael Kors Access Bradshaw 2 Smartwatch

Extremely fashionable and slightly more affordable wearable

Bradshaw 2 is the certainly more affordable alternative to Lexington 2. Similarly it comes from the same Access collection and sports the same Wear OS by Google as our top pick. The main difference is the lower 3ATM water resistance and they share a lot of features.

You’ll get the same reliable activity monitoring thanks to the built-in GPS. The built-in Google Assistant makes it super-easy to interact with the watch, while Google Pay lets you go shopping right after a jog without bothering to go home for your wallet.

Features apart, the Bradshaw 2 is all about fashion. Rose gold and blush colours certainly deliver an ultra-feminine look. Customisable dials give you the possibility to choose from a wide range of styles, while Bluetooth-enabled calling brings further value. Oversized yet still feminine, the Access Bradshaw 2 is one of the best women’s watches under $500 you can get your hands on.

3. Kate Spade New York Scallop Smartwatch

Kate Spade Smartwatch
A fine example of modern functionalities packed in a timeless design

Michael Kors might be dominant in the women’s smartwatch world, but Kate Spade shows that even the greatest should fear competition. Its Scallop smartwatch is the definition of fun and elegance. Super-stylish to wear with formal attire, however fun enough to keep on your wrist for a girls’ night out, this watch is the epitome of good taste.

Furthermore you can mix and match various bands with different dials for a unique, customised timepiece. Customisable watch faces – some of which are animated – make it easy to showcase your personality in a simple way. Whether you need a formal accessory or a fun, easy-going one, the Scallop has it all.

Smarts and functions include phone notifications – including incoming calls – time zones, reminders, music control, as well as weather forecasts. It’s ideal for fitness tracking too, as it integrates with Google Fit to count your steps, heart rate, and daily calories.

Like the Michael Kors, the Scallop runs on the Wear OS by Google and is compatible with Android and iOS phones.

4. Garmin Venu

The perfect watch under $500 for fitness enthusiasts

In a world where most brands are focused on creating cute hybrid watches for ladies and huge smartwatches for men, Garmin Venu stands out. It’s beautiful, bright, designed with performance in mind, and perfect for women.

Sure, it might be a bit larger than your regular watch. But in the end, if you aim for performance and need a wearable that can keep up with your progress, then this might be it.

From a visual standpoint, it’s not as stylish as the Michael Kors or Kate Spade, but it’s not ugly either. Perhaps a smaller version would have been better, but all it takes is a quick look at its tech features to change your mind about this beauty.

An array of functions makes it shine. Built-in GPS tracks your activity and records important metrics, such as pace, distance, and burnt calories. All-day heart rate monitoring and a range of predefined sports profiles can cover all needs.

Acting as a motivational coach, the Venu comes with easy-to-follow workouts you can watch on the bright AMOLED screen and is compatible with Spotify, Deezer, and Amazon Music for phone-free listening. No doubt, it’s a great choice for the fitness enthusiast or performance-oriented athlete out there.

5. Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2

The best women’s watch for the Samsung addicted
galaxy active smart watch

If you’re addicted to Samsung perhaps the Galaxy Watch Active 2 could be the best choice for you.

It may not be designed specifically for women, but comes in two sizes that make it perfect for most wrists. Customisable watch faces and a variety of colours throw in versatility. Delicate flower faces and other girly designs make it perfect for women.

Looks apart, we love its features. From heart and health monitoring to full smartphone integration, fitness tracking, and both Android and iOS compatibility, this smartwatch knows how to satisfy. It’s lightweight and fit for any occasion, from working out to sleeping in. A perfect choice for all tech-savvy ladies.

Summary

Picking a women’s watch under $500 may not be easy, but it shouldn’t be overly complicated either. We hope this rundown inspires you, but which is the best watch is down to you. Consider your style, needs, then choose your favourite.

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