Are Solar Smartwatches Worth It?

Solar charging smartwatches promise unlimited battery life from the sun’s energy. This sounds amazing, but are they worth the higher price? Here’s an in-depth look at the pros and cons of solar smartwatches to help you decide.

How Solar Smartwatches Work

Solar smartwatches have solar panels or solar rings around the display. They absorb both direct and indirect sunlight to generate energy. This charges the battery so it relies less on wall charging. Perks include:

• Continuously recharge during any daytime or bright indoor light.
• Maintain normal operation without direct sunlight.
• Extend battery up to weeks or months rather than days.
• Reduce long-term battery degradation.

Popular solar models include the Garmin Fenix 7X Solar and Hybrid HR Solar from brands like Citizen and Seiko.

Potential Advantages of Solar Smartwatches

Here are some of the possible upsides to solar-powered smartwatches:

• Never need to plug in for charging.
• Use convenient renewable solar energy.
• Get weeks of battery life rather than 1-2 days.
• Still maintain core smartwatch functions.
• Avoid battery degradation issues longer.
• Ideal for outdoor and adventure use.
• More durable and waterproof than most smartwatches.

Potential Downsides of Solar Smartwatches

However, there are also some drawbacks to consider:

• Much more expensive, often $500+.
• Solar charging is slower than wall charging.
• Can’t rely solely on solar outdoors.
• Less smart features than Apple Watch/Wear OS.
• Display is dimmer than non-solar models.
• Minimal app ecosystem. Mostly just fitness/outdoor activity tracking.
• Bulkier and heavier aesthetic.

Key Factors in the Solar Smartwatch Decision

Here are some key variables that should guide your decision:

• How much time do you spend outdoors? The more time outside in daylight, the more beneficial solar charging will be. If you work indoors, it’s less useful.
• Is longer battery life important? Solar extends battery to weeks rather than days, which is a major perk for some.
• Do you want maximal smart features? Solar watches have limited apps compared to Apple Watch and Wear OS.
• Is cost a factor? Solar watches are expensive investments starting around $500.
• Will size and style be okay? Solar watches skew sporty and bulky.

The Takeaway

Solar charging is an impressive innovation that can keep a smartwatch powered perpetually. But the limitations and high cost mean it only makes sense for a subset of smartwatch owners. Specifically, solar models appeal most to outdoor athletes and adventurers who can leverage the extended battery life. Casual smartwatch users who care about advanced features and style are likely better off saving money on a standard smartwatch model. But for the right user, the freedom of almost never recharging can justify the premium price of an eco-friendly solar smartwatch.