How to choose a smartwatch?

Do you know How to choose a smartwatch? Well, smartwatches have been around since the early 1980s, so there are a lot out there. Common features now include biometrics, calling, calculator, translations, games, GPS and music players.  As such, they’re generally classified as wearable computes.

Apple launched its first Apple Watch in 2015, this really changed the game! In fact, it was significant because it was more than a watch, it was also a fashion accessory. 

And the market has exploded since then, which is why we have created a definitive guide to help you know how to choose a smartwatch!

How to choose a smartwatch for men

The largest section of this market is geared towards men.  From multi-use, sports-style watches to higher end, sleeker and more refined options, here are three of the most popular with widely differing price tags. 

Tag Heuer Connected Modular

Despite the price tag, opinion and reviews on this model, are very average.  It is a solid piece of kit but heavy at 62.5g and really very bulky at 13.7mm thick.  Not very pretty so many are obviously paying for the brand. 

It is very customisable, though.  As it has changeable straps and bezel finish options of diamond, aluminium, titanium or ceramic. More, it comes with a full metal case, clear resolution and everything needed to track activity, sleep and it fully waterproof. 

Apple Watch Series 6

There is no doubt that the Apple Watch has led the way in changing this market. And this latest version is no disappointment.

In short, the Apple Watch Series 6 has a better battery, a fast S6 processor and 18 hours of battery life. More, it has all the usual fitness and health features plus the addition of blood oxygen monitoring.

Apart from all the features, it looks good – stylish, fashionable, and powerful. A real want to wear item. 

Samsung Galaxy Fit

This is a good all-rounder that has sold well. As a competitor to early Fitbits, this has water resistance up to 50m, simple display, calorie tracking, and an activity tracker for sleep, activity and workouts.  As such, the Galaxy Fit is a great multi-purpose watch for under $100.

How to choose a smartwatch for women

Women are spoilt for choice with the range of Smartwatches available. You get style and individuality.

Kate Spade Scallop Hybrid Smartwatch

Coming in various colours from black to pink or gold and rose gold. This watch comes with different straps and other accessories. More, this watch is feminine in every detail with its fabulous design by Fossil. As well as optional watch faces, it has the ability to make contactless payments, play music, track activities, and a large screen. 

Michael Kors’ Access Runway

This watch uses the Wear OS system, with features such as dial and touch screen functionality, countdown controls, social links, contactless payments, and water resistance. Unlike the other watches featured here, the Michael Kors’ Acces Runway one is very much geared towards formal wear and isn’t so suitable for the gym. Finally, it’s a strong unisex option, more feminine colours are available and there are suitable options for men also. 

Samsung Galaxy Watch 3

As with most Samsung products, the Galaxy Watch 3 delivers. Importantly, it’s able to connect with the current data plan on a phone and have access to all levels of phone calls, data, messages, internet, music and activity tracking. 

The activity tracker enables full monitoring of up to 40 different exercises, it has water resistance up to 50m, calorie tracking, detailed and in-depth sleep monitoring, contactless payments and wireless charging. More, the fitness tracking is advanced, as is the health monitoring and it has a long-lasting battery to boot.

Fitness Trackers

Fitbit is the market leader here – it’s name has almost become the generic term for fitness trackers – but there are plenty of others coming up on the rails.

Fitbit Versa 3

This watch has the classic Fitbit style, with nothing to make it stand out from the crowd, but with all the functions you probably need. The Versa 3 tracks heart rate, fitness and sleep, and has apps, with access to the internet and social media.

Boasting up to 50m water-resistance and six-day battery life, it also has onscreen workouts, the ability to store and play music, and the ability to make contactless payments. Finally, the Versa 3 has Google Assistant and Alexa compatibility. 

Garmin Forerunner 245 GPS

We know Garmin is known for sports capability. And this watch has automatic uploads to Garmin Connect with live tracking, audio prompts, internet and social media connection. 

Also, activity tracking includes distance, pace, time, heart rate and much more. 

Finally, with an optical heart rate sensor and excellent GPS, charts of progress and history of activity, it’s lightweight, with a large, hi-res screen. In short, this is a good unisex option.

Polar Vantage V Multisport

Here we have a premium, high spec watch with an impressive 40 hours of battery life, round screen face with dial and touch screen, the Vantage’s wireless magnetic charging aid completes the package. 

There are four skin sensors on the reverse of the watch which work as a heart rate sensor, so there is no need for a chest strap. 

Designer/Luxury

Got money to burn? The price range of smart watches seems to have no limit.  We’ve chosen three of the finest luxury smartwatches.

Louis Vuitton Tambour Horizon Black

This watch is aimed at global travellers. Because it shows upcoming flights, has a city guide application, 24-hour clock showing the weather and temperature. 

It comes in a stainless steel case with a black finish. Also, it runs on Wear OS and is compatible with both Android and iPhone. Finally, it has a 22-hour battery life and is water-resistant to 30 metres. So, not bad for around $2,000.

Movado Connect 2.0

The sleek Connect 2.0 mirrors the style of Movados analogue watches. This one shows the classic signature Museum Dial with a large metallic dot at 12 o’clock. 

Also, it runs on Wear OS, giving access to phone calls, email, messages, social media, internet and activity tracking. 

TAG Heuer Connected Modular

Made from white gold and no less than 589 diamonds this beautiful Connected Modular comes with an eye-watering price tag.

Using Wear OS and benefiting from 25 hours of battery life, it has all the standard features you’d expect and more – so it’s the gold and diamonds that you’re paying for!

Kids

Smartwatches are great for kids, too.

Garmin Vivo Fit Jr.2

This model costs under $40 and has a selection of different wrist bands which can be attached to suit all tastes. In fact, the main selection includes Disney Princess, Minnie Mouse, Star Wars, Spiderman and Avengers.

It’s an activity tracker with many unique features. For example, it tracks sleep, steps and activity to make sure kids get their required 60 minutes of daily activity in per day.

More, it motivates kids to achieve their goals by giving access to games on the watch. Additionally, it’s water-resistant and swim-friendly making it the perfect all-rounder.  Finally, it’s handy for parents who can set chores on the associated smart application, set rewards and monitor progress.

VTech Kidizoom Smart Watch DX2

This is a Dual Camera Smart Watch with lots of unique features.  It has been designed with creative and independent play in mind, with the express need to develop hand-eye coordination. 

Suitable for ages 4+

The main features include a motion sensor, pedometer, voice recorder, games, learning applications, camera and more.  A pretty good deal at $43.99 or less and the best of the bunch.

Apple Watch SE

If you’ve got the money to spend then the Apple Watch SE is a superb choice for kids. Mostly thanks to the great fitness and health tracking but also for the option to connect the family using Family Set Up which allows you to keep your kids safe, inside and outside of the home.

You should check out our article on Apple Watches for Kids, here.

Conclusion

We hope this guide on ow to choose a smartwatch has been informative as we appreciate it is a minefield of information out there. So, do your research, match the features which suit your lifestyle best and explore.  There really is a smartwatch out there to suit you.

Last Updated on February 5, 2021