Smartwatches have come a long way in 2024, with impressive options for every type of user. From fitness enthusiasts to fashion-conscious folks, finding the right smartwatch can be a bit overwhelming given the plethora of choices. This guide will break down the best smartwatches across different categories to help you find the perfect one for you. Whether you’re looking for top-notch fitness tracking, long battery life, or a stylish hybrid watch, we’ve got you covered.
Key Takeaway
In a year brimming with great smartwatch choices, understanding your needs will guide you to the right pick. Whether you want a fitness-focused gadget or a stylish hybrid, knowing the strengths of each watch will simplify your decision-making.
Best for Fitness Tracking: Garmin Venu 3
If fitness tracking is your priority, the Garmin Venu 3 is a standout choice. This watch excels with its accurate GPS and heart rate monitoring, making it ideal for serious athletes and casual fitness enthusiasts alike. Here’s why it shines:
- Accurate Tracking: Provides precise data on your workouts, from running to lifting weights.
- Body Battery Feature: Helps you monitor your energy levels throughout the day.
- Health Insights: Offers features like sleep tracking and stress monitoring.
- Long Battery Life: Claims up to 14 days on a single charge, though real-world use often yields 7 to 9 days.
Although it lacks advanced apps like Uber or Siri, it syncs with Strava and offers offline music with Spotify. At around $399, it’s a mid-range option but worth the investment for its fitness capabilities.
Best for Non-Samsung Android Users: Google Pixel Watch 2
For Android users who aren’t on a Samsung phone, the Google Pixel Watch 2 is an excellent choice. It stands out for several reasons:
- Seamless Google Integration: Works well with Google Assistant, Google Maps, and more.
- Rotating Crown: Makes navigating the interface smooth and intuitive.
- Minimalist Design: Sleek and modern, suitable for any occasion.
Priced at $349, it provides a solid blend of smart features and functionality, though its battery life is similar to other high-end smartwatches, lasting about a day and a half.
Best Looking and Best Hybrid Watch: Withings ScanWatch Nova
When it comes to aesthetics and hybrid functionality, the Withings ScanWatch Nova takes the cake. This watch combines classic analog design with smart features:
- Elegant Design: Stainless steel and a traditional watch face make it look sophisticated.
- Hybrid Features: Offers health tracking like heart rate, body temperature, and sleep analysis.
- Long Battery Life: Claims up to 30 days on a single charge.
Although it doesn’t have GPS and is slightly heavier, it’s perfect for those who prefer a stylish watch that still tracks fitness metrics.
Best Battery Life: OnePlus Watch 2
If you’re looking for a smartwatch with exceptional battery life, the OnePlus Watch 2 is a strong contender. Here’s what makes it special:
- Dual Chip Architecture: Combines a powerful Snapdragon W5 chip with a more efficient secondary chip, extending battery life.
- Extended Use: Offers up to 100 hours of battery life, with real-world usage around 3 to 4 days.
- Dual Band GPS: Provides accurate location tracking even in challenging environments.
Priced at $299, it balances smart features with impressive battery longevity, though it lacks a rotating crown and ECG functionality.
Best on a Budget: Apple Watch SE & Galaxy Watch 4
For those looking to spend less while still getting a reliable smartwatch, consider these options:
- Apple Watch SE: A great value for iPhone users, offering essential features and good performance at a lower price.
- Galaxy Watch 4: Ideal for Android users, providing a solid smartwatch experience without breaking the bank.
Both models are a few years old but still offer excellent performance for their price. Expect to pay less for these watches compared to their more advanced counterparts.
Best Fitness Band: Xiaomi Mi Band 8
If you prefer a fitness band over a full-fledged smartwatch, the Xiaomi Mi Band 8 is a fantastic option. It’s affordable and packed with features:
- Large Display: A 1.62-inch screen provides more visibility than previous models.
- Long Battery Life: Lasts up to 16 days on a single charge.
- Fitness Tracking: Monitors your health metrics and syncs with your phone for notifications and more.
At around $40 to $45, it’s a budget-friendly choice that still covers the essentials. Samsung’s Galaxy Fit 3 is another solid option, offering similar features.
Top Smartwatch Alternatives for Health and Sleep Tracking
For those who prioritize health and sleep tracking but prefer something less bulky than a smartwatch, consider these alternatives:
- Whoop 4.0: This strap focuses on detailed health and recovery insights without displaying the time. It’s incredibly comfortable for 24/7 wear.
- Oura Ring: A sleek, ring-shaped alternative that tracks sleep, activity, and overall health. It’s subtle and easy to wear.
Both devices provide in-depth data on your health and sleep, making them popular among fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals.
Best Overall Smartwatches
Best for iOS Users: Apple Watch 9
The Apple Watch 9 is the top pick for iPhone users. It combines:
- Comprehensive Features: Excellent for sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, and GPS.
- Iterative Improvements: Each year, Apple refines its watch, making it a reliable choice for most users.
Though the Apple Watch SE is more affordable, the Apple Watch 9 offers better long-term value due to its enhanced features and longer support.
Best for Android Users: Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
For Android users, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic stands out:
- Rotating Bezel: Adds a touch of elegance and functionality.
- Extended Battery Life: Offers slightly more endurance than other models.
- Rich Features: Includes advanced health tracking and a classy design.
In summary, whether you’re looking for the best fitness tracker, a stylish hybrid, or a budget-friendly option, there’s a smartwatch to fit your needs. Evaluate your priorities and choose the one that best aligns with your lifestyle.
Comparison Table of the Best Smartwatches and Fitness Bands for 2024
| Category | Best Choice | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for Fitness Tracking | Garmin Venu 3 | Accurate GPS, heart rate tracking, sleep and body battery insights, ECG, offline music (Spotify), long battery life (up to 14 days), supports both iOS and Android. | $399 |
| Best for Non-Samsung Android Users | Google Pixel Watch 2 | Rotating crown, Google Assistant, LTE option, minimal design, works well with all Android phones, decent battery life (1-1.5 days). | $349 |
| Best Looking & Hybrid Watch | Withings ScanWatch Nova | Premium design with analog hands, long battery life (up to 30 days), ECG, body temperature tracking, fitness tracking, works with iOS and Android. | $329 |
| Best Battery Life | OnePlus Watch 2 | Dual-chip architecture for efficiency, up to 100 hours of battery life (3-4 days in practice), dual-band GPS, large storage (32 GB), lacks rotating crown and ECG. | $299 |
| Best on a Budget | Apple Watch SE (iOS) / Galaxy Watch 4 (Android) | Apple Watch SE: Affordable, well-rounded performance, last major update until 2025. Galaxy Watch 4: Affordable, good performance, last major update until 2025. | $250-$299 |
| Best Fitness Band | Xiaomi Mi Band 8 | 1.62-inch display, 16-day battery life, fitness tracking, notifications, affordable at around $45, also works as a fitness strap or in Pebble mode. | $40-$45 |
| Top Smartwatch Alternatives for Health & Sleep Tracking | Whoop Strap 4.0 / Oura Ring | Whoop Strap 4.0: Comfortable, tracks sleep, heart rate, and recovery, no time display. Oura Ring: Discreet, tracks health metrics, comfortable for sleep. Both are ideal for in-depth health tracking. | $30-$500 |
| Best Overall for iOS Users | Apple Watch 9 | Excellent all-around performance, sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, GPS, integrates seamlessly with iPhone. Offers the best balance of features and future-proofing. | $399 |
| Best Overall for Android Users | Galaxy Watch 6 Classic | Elegant design with rotating bezel, good battery life, integrates well with Samsung ecosystem, better overall features compared to competitors. | $399 |