Picking the right smartwatch can be tricky, especially if you’re not sure where to start. But don’t worry—we’re here to help! We’ve made a simple guide with the best smartwatch brands and their top products to make things easier for you.
Whether you’re searching for affordable smartwatches, need waterproof smartwatches for your adventures, or want a stylish option to track your fitness and manage notifications, this guide will help you find the perfect fit for your needs and budget. Let’s get started! And feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need more guidance!
Types of Smartwatches
Smartwatches come in various types based on their features, design, and target audience. Here are some of the main types:
1. Basic, Affordable Smartwatches
- These functionalities include notifications, call alerts, music control, and step counting.
- Best for users seeking simple smartwatch features without too many advanced capabilities.
2. Fitness-Focused Smartwatches
- Packed with health and fitness tracking features like heart rate monitoring, step counting, sleep tracking, workout modes, SpO2 tracking, and GPS.
- Best for fitness enthusiasts and athletes.
3. Premium Smartwatches
- Offer advanced capabilities like ECG monitoring, blood oxygen tracking, high-quality displays, LTE connectivity, and seamless integration with smartphones.
- Best for users looking for high-end features and luxury design.
4. Hybrid Smartwatches
- Combine the look of a traditional watch with smart features like activity tracking, notifications, and basic health monitoring.
- Best for those who prefer a classic watch appearance with some smart features.
5. Rugged Smartwatches
- Built for outdoor enthusiasts with features like durability, water resistance, GPS, barometer, and military-grade toughness.
- Best for adventure seekers, hikers, and outdoor athletes.
6. Kids’ Smartwatches
- Focused on safety and communication with features like GPS tracking, calling, and geofencing.
- Best for parents who want to keep an eye on their children.
Top Smartwatch Brands You Shouldn’t Miss Out
1. Samsung
Top Performing Model
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 (44mm, Silver, BT + LTE)
Notable Features
- Key Specifications: 1.47″ Super AMOLED Display, 3nm Processor, Enhanced BioActive Sensor, Dual GPS
- Waterproof Rating: 5ATM & IP68
- Battery Life: Up to 48 hours
- LTE: Yes
Price
₹ 34,490
Pros
- Stylish and durable design with Sapphire Glass and Armour Aluminum
- Bright 2000 nits Super AMOLED display
- Comprehensive health tracking with advanced features like HR, SpO2, BP, and ECG monitors
- Faster 3nm processor
- Dual GPS for accurate location tracking
- AI-powered features like Energy Score and personalised health metrics
- Convenient gesture controls for calls, alarms, and photos
Cons
- BP and ECG monitoring features limited to Samsung smartphones
- Slightly higher price point compared to similar models
- Compatibility issues with devices below Android 11
2. Apple
Top Performing Model
Apple Watch Series 10 [GPS 46 mm] Smartwatch
Notable Features
- Key Specifications: 46mm Always-On Retina Display, 64GB Storage, ECG App, Vitals App, Activity Rings, Advanced Fitness Tracking
- Waterproof Rating: Water Resistant (50m)
- Battery Life: Up to 18 hours
- LTE: No (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity)
Price
₹ 49,900
Pros
- Bigger display with 30% more screen area for easy navigation
- Thinner and lighter design
- Advanced health insights, including ECG and heart rate monitoring
- Fitness tracking with customisable Activity Rings and workout metrics
- Fall and Crash Detection with automatic emergency services connection
- Faster charging with 80% charge in just 30 minutes
- Seamless integration with iPhone and Siri for effortless connectivity
Cons
- No LTE relies on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for connectivity
- Higher price compared to other fitness-focused smartwatches
- Limited battery life of 18 hours may require daily charging
3. Amazfit
Top Performing Model
Amazfit Active Edge 46mm Smart Watch
Notable Features
- Key Specifications: 1.32-inch touchscreen, Built-in GPS with 5 satellite positioning systems, 16-day battery life, 10 ATM water resistance, Zepp Coach AI-powered personalised training
- Waterproof Rating: 10 ATM (up to 100 meters)
- Battery Life: Up to 16 days
- LTE: No (Bluetooth connectivity)
Price
₹ 7,999
Pros
- Trend-setting dual-colour design
- Ultra-long battery life
- Accurate GPS tracking with 5 satellite systems
- 10 ATM water resistance
- Personalised training plans with Zepp Coach AI
- Intelligent Strength Training mode with automatic exercise detection
Cons
- No LTE connectivity
- No built-in music storage for offline listening
- No advanced features like a built-in microphone or speaker for calls
4. Huawei
Top Performing Model
Huawei Watch GT 5 46mm Smartwatch
Notable Features
- Key Specifications: 1.43-inch AMOLED touchscreen, 128MB memory storage, Bluetooth connectivity, emotional wellbeing assistant, sleep monitor, real-time running and cycling data
- Waterproof Rating: 5 ATM (up to 50 meters)
- Battery Life: Up to 14 days (max), 7 days (typical)
- LTE: No (Bluetooth calls)
Price
₹ 16,999
Pros
- Slim and lightweight design
- Seamless wrist-based navigation with real-time map-based routes
- Exclusive Emotional Wellbeing app to track mood and mental health
- Advanced health tracking
- Long battery life
- Bluetooth call functionality
- Compatible with both iOS and Android devices
Cons
- No LTE support
- Limited to basic 5 ATM water resistance
- No built-in music storage for offline listening
5. OnePlus
Top Performing Model
OnePlus 1.43’’ AMOLED Display Watch 2R with Wear OS 4 by Google
Notable Features
- Key Specifications: Wear OS 4 by Google, Snapdragon W5 + BES2700 dual chipsets, 2GB RAM, 32GB ROM, 1.43-inch AMOLED display, 100+ sports modes, dual-frequency GPS, health tracking features, VOOC fast charging
- Waterproof Rating: 5 ATM + IP68 (Water and dust resistant)
- Battery Life: Up to 100 hours in Smart Mode, 48 hours with heavy use, 12 days in Power Saver Mode
- LTE: No (Bluetooth calling only)
Price
₹ 17,999
Pros
- Fast charging (10 minutes gives 24 hours of use)
- Long battery life
- Enhanced GPS accuracy with dual-frequency support
- 100+ sports modes
- Stylish design with an aluminium chassis
- Detailed health and fitness tracking
- 1.43-inch AMOLED display
- Wear OS 4 by Google, compatible with a wide range of apps
- 32GB storage for music, apps, and more
Cons
- No LTE support
- Only suitable for basic water resistance (5 ATM)
- No offline music storage options for the display
6. Noise
Top Performing Model
Noise Halo 2 1.43″ AMOLED Smartwatch
Notable Features
- Key Specifications: 1.43-inch AMOLED display, Rotatable axe-cut bezel, Noise Health Suite, TruSync BT Calling, 1st rotating dial design, Menu transition animation effects
- Waterproof Rating: Not specified (likely splash or sweat-resistant)
- Battery Life: Up to 7 days
- LTE: No (Bluetooth calling only)
Price
₹ 4,999
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Stylish and durable stainless steel build
- Rotatable axe-cut bezel for precise navigation
- Customisable transition effects
- Vibrant 1.43-inch AMOLED display
- Plenty of health tracking features
- Crystal-clear Bluetooth calling with TruSync
- Long-lasting battery life (up to 7 days)
Cons
- No official waterproof rating
- No LTE support
- Lacks advanced fitness tracking features
- Not suitable for intensive water activities
7. Boult
Top Performing Model
Boult 1.43” HD AMOLED Crown R Pro Smart Watch
Notable Features
- Key Specifications: 1.43″ HD AMOLED display, Bluetooth calling with speaker & mic, AI voice assistant, SpO2 monitoring, 120+ sports modes, 150+ cloud-based watch faces
- Waterproof Rating: IP67 (water-resistant)
- Battery Life: Up to 7 days
- LTE: No (Bluetooth calling only)
Price
₹ 1,999
Pros
- Affordable and feature-packed
- Stunning 1.43″ HD AMOLED display
- Bluetooth calling with clear sound quality
- Extensive health tracking with over 120 sports modes
- Highly customisable watch faces and design
- AI voice assistant for hands-free control
- Real-time weather updates and “Find My Phone” feature
- IP67 water resistance
Cons
- No advanced fitness tracking
- Limited battery life
- Lacks LTE support
- No advanced sleep-tracking features
Smartwatch Buying Guide: Factors to Consider
When buying a smartwatch, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make sure it suits your lifestyle and preferences:
1. Battery Life
First and the most important factor is battery life. You want a smartwatch with the longest battery life, so you don’t have to charge it every single day. How long the battery lasts depends on how you use the watch. If you’re using features like GPS, LTE, or tracking your heart rate all the time, you’ll need a watch with a powerful battery to keep up with your lifestyle.
2. Design and Display
The design and display of a smartwatch play a big role in how comfortable and stylish it feels to wear. If you plan to wear it for long hours, you’ll want to pick one that looks good and feels right on your wrist.
- An AMOLED or OLED display gives you bright colours and deep blacks while making the screen look more vibrant. LCD screens are less vibrant but save battery.
- Smartwatches come in round or square shapes. Choose what you like best, and make sure it fits your wrist comfortably.
- A clear screen makes everything look sharper. Go for one with at least 300 PPI (pixels per inch) for crisp visuals.
3. Operating System Compatibility
The smartwatch’s operating system must be compatible with your smartphone to ensure seamless syncing of apps, notifications, and features.
Apple Watch works best with iOS devices (iPhone). Wear OS (by Google) works well with both Android and iOS, though certain features may be limited on iPhones. Samsung Galaxy Watches typically work better with Samsung phones, but they can also be paired with Android and iOS.
4. Health and Fitness Features
If fitness and health tracking are your priorities, look for these features in a smartwatch:
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Tracks fitness and overall health.
- GPS: Ideal for runners, hikers, and cyclists to map routes.
- Sleep Tracking: Monitors sleep patterns and quality.
- SpO2 Monitoring: Checks blood oxygen levels for respiratory health.
- ECG: High-end watches offer heart health monitoring.
- Workout Modes: Tailored for activities like running, swimming, or yoga.
Choose one that matches your goals and lifestyle!
5. Water Resistance
If you plan to wear your smartwatch while swimming or during intense workouts, water resistance is a key factor. Look for a 5 ATM rating or higher (up to 50 meters) for swimming and water sports. IP68 rating ensures protection against dust and water submersion (up to a certain depth and time).
6. Connectivity and Notifications
A smartwatch’s connectivity features allow you to stay informed and connected, even when your phone is out of reach.
- Make sure the smartwatch shows alerts like calls, messages, and app updates so you don’t have to check your phone all the time.
- All smartwatches connect to your phone using Bluetooth. Go for one with the latest version (Bluetooth 5.0) for better range and battery life.
- Some smartwatches have Wi-Fi, which lets them sync data or connect to the internet without needing your phone nearby.
- Certain models have LTE built-in, so you can make calls, send texts, or use apps even if your phone is left at home.
7. Brand Reputation and Customer Support
Choosing a smartwatch from a trusted brand ensures you get good quality and support when needed.
- Read reviews and ratings to learn about the smartwatch’s quality and how well it works in real life.
- Go for a brand that offers at least a 1-2 year warranty. It gives you peace of mind in case something goes wrong.
- Make sure the brand has reliable support, whether through phone, email, or nearby service centres.
- Top brands regularly update their smartwatches to fix issues, improve performance, and add new features.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Smartwatches
Like any gadget, smartwatches come with their own advantages and disadvantages worth considering before making a purchase. Let’s check them out:
Advantages of Smartwatches
1. Tracks Your Fitness and Health
- A smartwatch is like having a personal trainer on your wrist.
- It counts your steps, monitors your heart rate, tracks your sleep, and some even measure your blood oxygen levels.
- It is great for fitness enthusiasts or anyone aiming for a healthier lifestyle.
2. Gives You Convenient Notifications Without Your Phone
- You can see calls, texts, and app notifications right on your wrist.
- Some smartwatches even let you reply or make calls without pulling out your phone.
3. Helps You Navigate
- If you’re walking or driving, the GPS on a smartwatch can guide you with directions right on your wrist.
- You don’t have to stare at your phone while navigating.
4. Stylish and Customisable
- Many smartwatches let you change the strap or even the watch face to match your style. It’s like wearing a techy accessory that looks good too.
5. Great for Emergencies
- Some smartwatches have safety features like fall detection or an SOS button. If something goes wrong, it can call for help, which is reassuring, especially for older people.
6. Standalone Functionality
- LTE-enabled smartwatches can make calls, send messages, and stream music without needing a smartphone.
7. Productivity Tools
- Features like alarms, reminders, calendars, and voice assistants help you stay organised.
8. Entertainment on the Go
- Stream music, control playlists, or even watch videos directly from your smartwatch.
Disadvantages of Smartwatches
1. Battery Life Can Be Annoying
- Most smartwatches need charging every day or two, especially if you’re using all the fancy features like GPS or health monitoring. It’s one more device to keep charged.
2. Can Be Expensive
- Good smartwatches can cost as much as a decent smartphone. If you’re on a budget, it might feel like a big expense.
3. Small Screen
- The tiny screen can be tricky to use. Reading long messages or interacting with apps might not be as smooth as on a phone.
4. Depends on Your Phone
- Many smartwatches don’t work fully on their own. For example, an Apple Watch works best with an iPhone. If you switch phones or use a different brand, it might not be as useful.
5. Might Distract You
- While notifications on your wrist are convenient, they can also become a distraction. You might find yourself checking your watch too often.
Brand Comparison: Choosing the Best One
In this comparison, we’ll provide an overview of each smartwatch brand, focusing on key features, warranty information, after-sales service, and the type of user each brand is best suited for. With all this information, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the best smartwatch that fits your lifestyle and needs. Whether you prioritise fitness tracking, connectivity, or design, we’ve got you covered to make an informed decision.
S.No. | Brand Name | Key Features | Warranty and After-Sales Service | Best For |
1 | OnePlus | Wear OS 4, Snapdragon W5 chipset, AMOLED display, Dual Frequency GPS, 100+ Sports modes | 1-year warranty, excellent customer service | Fitness tracking, sleek design, budget-friendly |
2 | Noise | 1.43” AMOLED display, Rotating bezel, Health suite, TruSync BT calling, 7-day battery life | 1-year warranty, fast support | Budget-conscious users, those seeking stylish designs |
3 | Boult | Bluetooth calling, 1.43″ AMOLED display, SpO2 & heart rate monitoring, 120+ sports modes | 1-year warranty, responsive service | Fitness enthusiasts, value-for-money seekers |
4 | Samsung | Super AMOLED display, built-in GPS, health & fitness tracking, long battery life | 2-year warranty, premium service | Users seeking premium features and durability |
5 | Garmin | High-quality GPS, fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring, extensive sport modes | 1-year warranty, comprehensive after-sales | Athletes and outdoor adventurers |
6 | Apple | Seamless iOS integration, heart rate & ECG monitoring, always-on display | 1-year warranty, excellent after-sales | iPhone users, those seeking advanced health features |
7 | Amazfit | AMOLED display, 150+ sports modes, fitness tracking, long battery life | 1-year warranty, good customer service | Affordable smartwatch with solid fitness features |
Key Technological Advances and Features You Should Be Aware About
If you’re thinking about getting a smartwatch, there are so many cool features to consider that can make your life easier. With technology constantly improving, the main challenge is staying updated with the latest advancements and features. For instance, smartwatches with ECG are now available, enabling you to monitor your heart’s rhythm and detect irregularities like atrial fibrillation.
Another key feature to look for is durability—waterproof smartwatches are perfect for those who swim, sweat during workouts, or just want peace of mind in wet conditions. So, here are some of the most important features you should be aware of if you’re going to buy a new smartwatch soon.
1. Health and Fitness Tracking Features
A lot of people buy a smartwatch for their health and fitness goals. After all, it can track your steps, heart rate, and even monitor your sleep. If you’re looking for the best smartwatch for fitness tracking, here are some of the top features you should keep an eye on:
- Heart rate monitoring
- Smartwatches with ECG (Electrocardiogram)
- Blood Oxygen (SpO2) Measurement
- Sleep Tracking
- Stress Monitoring
2. GPS and Navigation
If you’re into outdoor activities like running, cycling, or hiking, a smartwatch with built-in GPS will help you track your route and distance without needing to bring your phone along.
3. Connectivity Features
- LTE/Cellular Connectivity: Some smartwatches, like the Apple Watch with cellular, allow you to make calls, send texts, and access data without needing to pair with a phone. This is ideal for situations where you don’t want to carry your phone around.
- Bluetooth: Most smartwatches use Bluetooth to connect with your phone, but newer models offer Bluetooth 5.0, which provides faster and more reliable connections over longer distances.
- Wi-Fi: Some watches also support Wi-Fi, so you can connect to the internet when you’re not near your phone or cellular network.
4. Battery Life Improvements
Newer models often come with low-power modes that extend battery life by disabling certain features when not in use. A few smartwatches, like the Garmin Fenix series, offer solar charging, which extends battery life when you’re outdoors and in sunlight.
5. Water Resistance and Durability
Look for models that are water-resistant (rated IP68 or above). Some are even designed for swimming and can track your strokes and lap times. Certain watches are built to withstand tough environments. Features like MIL-STD-810G certification ensure your watch can handle drops, extreme temperatures, and exposure to dust and water.
6. Voice Assistants and Smart Features
Popular voice assistants like Siri (Apple), Google Assistant (Android), and Alexa (Amazon) are now integrated into many smartwatches. These help with tasks like setting reminders, sending texts, controlling smart home devices, and more.
7. Customisation and Design Options
Most smartwatches allow you to change the watch face, letting you personalise it based on your style, mood, or the occasion.
8. Advanced Sensors
Some smartwatches also come with barometers and altimeters. These sensors help measure elevation, which is useful for hiking, climbing, or tracking elevation changes during runs. Moreover, some watches can also measure the ambient temperature or even track your body temperature for health insights.
9. Payment Features
Many smartwatches support contactless payments (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay), allowing you to make payments directly from your wrist without pulling out your wallet or phone.
The Bottom Line
So, there you have it – the 7 best smartwatch brands that are leading the charge in wearable tech. Whether you’re looking for top-notch fitness tracking, a sleek design, or long-lasting battery life, these brands have something for everyone.
And hey, if you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to do a bit more digging or ask for advice. You’ll be rocking your new smartwatch in no time, ready to take on the world – one notification at a time!
Frequently Asked Questions about Choosing the Best Smartwatch for Fitness Tracking
1. Which brand offers the best smartwatch for fitness tracking?
When it comes to fitness tracking, brands like Garmin, Fitbit, and Apple are at the top of the game. Garmin is known for its accuracy and advanced features for athletes, while Fitbit is perfect for beginners and casual fitness lovers. Apple Watch also offers a great range of fitness features, especially if you’re looking for something that integrates well with your iPhone.
2. Which smartwatches are compatible with both Android and iOS?
A lot of smartwatches these days are cross-compatible, which means they work with both Android and iOS. Some top picks are the Samsung Galaxy Watch, Fitbit, and Garmin watches. These smartwatches offer seamless connectivity and let you enjoy their features regardless of which phone you have.
3. What is the best affordable smartwatch for everyday use?
If you’re on a budget but still want a smartwatch that covers all the basics, we recommend considering models by brands like Amazfit, Huawei, Noise, etc. They both offer fitness tracking, notifications, and good battery life without breaking the bank. Plus, they come in sleek designs that fit into any daily routine!
4. Which smartwatch has the longest battery life?
If you’re looking for the best smartwatch with the longest battery life, the Amazfit Active Edge 46mm Smart Watch has some of the best battery life, offering up to 16 days of use.
5. Can smartwatches be used for swimming?
Yes, many smartwatches are water-resistant and can be used for swimming. For example, the Apple Watch Series 7 has excellent water resistance and can track swimming workouts. Just make sure to check the water resistance rating to ensure it can handle immersion.
6. Which smartwatch is best for women?
When it comes to women’s smartwatches, it’s all about style and functionality. The Apple Watch Series 7 offers a sleek design with plenty of features, including fitness tracking and customisation options.
7. Can smartwatches replace smartphones?
Smartwatches can handle many tasks that smartphones do, but they’re not quite a complete replacement. While you can make calls, send messages, and track fitness, the screen size and app limitations mean your phone will still be your main device for browsing, media, and complex tasks. Think of your smartwatch as a great sidekick to your phone!
8. Do smartwatches track sleep?
Absolutely! Most modern smartwatches can track your sleep patterns, including how long you’re in light, deep, and REM sleep. This can give you valuable insights into your sleep quality and help you improve your rest.
9. Which smartwatch has the best display?
If a vibrant, high-quality display is a priority for you, the Apple Watch Series 7 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offer some of the best screens on the market. Both have bright, clear OLED displays that make it easy to read notifications and interact with apps, even in direct sunlight.