Are you in the market for a new smartwatch? With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. In this Smartwatch Buying Guide, we will explore the key features to consider when buying a smartwatch in 2023. From fitness tracking to app compatibility, we’ve got you covered.
What Features Should you Look in a Smartwatch?
Following are some of the most important factors one should consider before selecting a smartwatch:
Compatibility
Before purchasing a smartwatch, ensure that it is compatible with your smartphone’s operating system. The two most popular operating systems for smartwatches are iOS and Android. If you have an iPhone, consider an Apple Watch, while Android users can choose from a variety of options such as the Samsung Smartwatch or the Garmin Smartwatch.
Display
The display is one of the most important features to consider when buying a smartwatch. Look for a watch with a high-resolution screen that is easy to read in all lighting conditions. OLED and AMOLED screens are known for their vibrant colors and high contrast ratios. Make sure that the display is bright enough in outdoors. Otherwise, you may not have an enjoyable experience with a poor display.
Battery Life
Battery life is an important consideration for any smartwatch. Most watches will last between one and three days on a single charge. Look for a watch with a long-lasting battery if you plan to use it for extended periods without charging. You can also get your hands on Solar Smartwatches these days. Garmin Instinct Crossover Solar is a good example here. With Solar support, you won’t need to recharge your Smartwatch that often unless there is a rainy day outside.
Health & Fitness Tracking
If you’re looking for a watch to track your fitness, look for one with a heart rate monitor, GPS, and a range of activity tracking features. Many smartwatches offer workout modes for running, cycling, swimming, and more. Some watches even have coaching features to help you improve your workouts. If you need Sleep tracking or ECG tracking, then look for those smartwatches that have these features. Sleep tracking is pretty common in new Smartwatches these days. However, ECG tracking is only available in a few of them. It is also important to check the accuracy of these health tracking features. Afterall, you don’t want to end up with a smartwatch that tells all the readings inaccurately.
Water Resistance
If you plan to wear your watch while swimming or participating in water sports, ensure that it has a high water resistance rating. Look for a watch with an IP68 rating, which means it can be submerged in water up to 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes. Some smartwatches come with a water resistance of 5 ATM, while others have lower resistance to water. So, spend some time on knowing these key features and make a wise decision.
App Compatibility
Smartwatches can run a range of apps, including social media, productivity, and entertainment apps. Look for a watch with a large app store if you plan to use it for more than just basic functions. Moreover, if you do most of your payments with Google Pay, then get a Smartwatch that supports Google Pay. Or, if you love Apple Pay, Apple Watch makes more sense for you. Whichever, payment method you use, make sure that your intended Smartwatch supports that payment method so that you have a seamless experience.
Design and Comfort
When choosing a smartwatch, consider its design and comfort. Look for a watch with a band that fits comfortably on your wrist and a watch face that suits your style. Some watches even allow you to customize the watch face to match your mood or outfit. There are many sources available that can help you to decide the right type of band and the suitable size to fit your wrist. For instance, if you want an Apple Watch Ultra, choosing between Trail Loop vs Alpine Loop can be a headache. So, make sure that you spend some time in selecting the right type and size of the band according to your requirements.
Price
Smartwatches can range in price from less than $100 to over $1,000. Consider your budget when choosing a watch, and don’t forget to factor in ongoing costs such as replacement bands and accessories. There are also discounts and deals available on Smartwatches from time to time. So, make sure that you keep an eye on those deals and discounts as well. You can also purchase used Smartwatches if you are short on budget.
Customer Reviews
Finally, read customer reviews before purchasing a smartwatch. This can give you insight into the user experience and any issues that others have encountered. There are multiple forums where you can get such insights. Apart from the stores where you can purchase the watches, look for people’s experiences on different forums. For example, some people shared their experiences with some Apple bands which caused them rashes and acne. So, make sure that you consider these factors before making a decision.
SmartWatch Buying Guide: The Bottom Line
Choosing a smartwatch can be a daunting task, but if you choose smartwatch by features we have mentioned in this Smartwatch Buying Guide, you can narrow down your options and find the best smartwatch for Android or iOS. Whether you’re looking for a fitness tracker or a device that can keep you connected on the go, there is a smartwatch out there that can meet your needs.
SmartWatch Buying Guide: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make phone calls from my smartwatch?
Yes, many smartwatches offer phone calling features, but you’ll need to ensure that your watch is connected to your smartphone and has a cellular connection.
Can I listen to music on my smartwatch?
Yes, most smartwatches can stream music from popular apps such as Spotify.
Can I use my smartwatch for fitness tracking?
Absolutely! Many smartwatches come with built-in fitness tracking features such as heart rate monitors, GPS, and workout modes. We have discussed more about this in the Health & Fitness Tracking section of this Smartwatch Buying Guide.
What is the difference between OLED and AMOLED screens?
OLED stands for Organic Light Emitting Diode, while AMOLED stands for Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode. The main difference is that AMOLED screens have an additional layer of thin-film transistors that allow for faster response times and better color reproduction. You can read more on this from other sources as we cannot go into more details in this Smartwatch Buying Guide.
How do I know if a smartwatch is water-resistant?
Look for a water resistance rating, usually denoted by an IP rating. An IP68 rating means that the watch can be submerged in water up to 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes. Check the relevant section in this Smartwatch Buying guide for more details.