Many people who have yet to buy a smartwatch ask why they need to wear one more device. One important thing is that you can reduce your dependence on the phone. One of the main advantages of wearing a smartwatch is not having to pick up the phone every time a notification comes through. You can tell by just turning your hand. Apart from this, the best smartwatches also come with excellent apps. Many important things including calendar information are known by looking at the wrist.

∙ This is not why most people buy a smartwatch

But that’s not what most people buy their first smartwatch for. But rather to take advantage of the fitness features built into them. Serious sports and fitness enthusiasts may benefit from buying a smartwatch. Smart watches include the best fitness trackers. Many of these watches have built-in GPS. They can also be used as an alternative to fitness trackers as they include heart rate monitoring, step count and more. (Meanwhile, those looking to shell out a bit more money are better off relying on fitness trackers.)

∙ How to find the right smartwatch?

Let’s take a look at the key information that will help one find the right type of smartwatch:

∙ Works with phones?

The first consideration is whether it can work with your own phone. However, most watches can be connected to almost any phone. An exception to this is the Apple Watch 5. Android watch users should not buy this. Meanwhile, all watches released by companies like Samsung, Fitbit, Garmin, and Huawei are designed to work seamlessly with most Android and iOS phones.

∙ Apps

Every smartwatch can be relied upon for basic information. You can expect calendar information, weather warnings, step count and more in these watches. However, if you’re considering third-party apps on watches, it’s a good idea to choose those with Apple Watch (watchOS) or Wear OS (the OS formerly known as Android Wear).

Some of the Samsung watches running Tizen OS and Fitbit OS are less likely to have third-party apps. (There is no requirement for third-party apps to run the watch.) Garmin watches also have this limitation. Watches running on WatchOS and WearOS also get the services of Apple’s Siri Google Assistant voice assistant. Voice assistants help to know all basic information without even touching.

∙ Sensors

The next thing to consider is the hardware features. Does it have a heart rate sensor? Does it include an altimeter to check how many steps you’ve climbed and more? Can you get a compass to know the direction? All of these questions will depend on how you intend to use the watch.

GPS is a must have if you want to accurately record your runs and bike rides. If you want to make contactless payment, you need NFC. (However, this only works if the bank also supports it.) Most watches are capable of collecting data about swimming and sleep. But keep in mind that not all watches offer them.

∙ Battery life

Perhaps one of the most important features is battery life. This is different for every watch. For example, the Fossil Sport model can only be used for one day. However, the Fitbit Versa 2 can get up to five days of charge. Better battery life should be a top priority if you want a reliable smartwatch.

Can you hear the song?

If you are a music lover, you can also consider watches that support music streaming services. However, if you are a person who always carries your phone with you, this is not necessary. However, those who want to listen to music while exercising, etc., even without their phone, can also consider this.

∙ Best smartwatches

Here are some of the best smartwatches available today. All these are expensive. (Read article about some cheap smartwatches here. https://bit.ly/3FCSIxa)

Best suited for iPhone users

Needless to say. Apple Watch is the best for iPhone users. The Series 8 is the best selling right now. (That is, if you don’t consider Ultra.) It is built with all the features expected from a modern smartwatch. Apple Watch will get up to 18 hours of working time. The entry variant is priced above Rs 40,000.

∙ Apple Watch SE

For those who can’t afford the Series 8, and want an Apple Watch itself, consider the Apple Watch SE. Many of the features of the Series 8 will be available. However, some features like always on display, blood oxygen level check and ECG app will not be available. Up to 18 hours of battery life. Prices start above Rs 30,000. (Available on Amazon for Rs 29,000 at the time of writing.)

∙ Samsung’s best watch – Galaxy Watch 4

Running on Wear OS, this watch has most of the features. Google Play Store, Maps, Thad Party Apps and many more. Chief among the missing features is Google Assistant. Note – This is the first Samsung watch that cannot be paired with an iPhone. Suitable for those who own Samsung phones or any Android phone. There are two versions, Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic. The Watch 4 is selling for Rs 12,040 on Amazon for the entry-level variant. MRP Rs 29,999. The Classic is priced at Rs 18,089. MRP Rs 37,990.

∙ Garmin Venu 2 Plus

This is the best Garmin watch for everyday life. Speaker and microphone are included. Works in collaboration with the phone’s voice assistant. Most of the best features are included. About a week of battery life. Price is Rs 47,990. MRP Rs 50,490.

∙ Galaxy Watch 3

It’s being described as the Galaxy Watch for the money. One of its advantages is its small size. Most features are included. Up to 56 hours of battery life. iPhone users can also consider. The starting variant is priced at Rs 11,299. MRP Rs 30,999.

∙ Garmin Phoenix 7

A great watch in many ways. But the price is high. Most tracking systems are included. It also gets a battery life of up to 14 days. But the starting price is Rs 67,990.

∙ Garmin Epics Gen2

All the features expected from a sports watch are included. It’s a collection of features like incredible GPS accuracy, realtime stamina tool, music streaming, and more. Up to six days of battery life. MRP Rs 89,990.