Different Types of Smart Watches Explained

Smart watches are almost as common as smartphones these days, and just like smartphones, there are many types of smart watches, each with a distinct set of features, functions, and specs.

Although all smart watches offer an array of features, most are built with a unique purpose in mind. Some smart watches are optimized for athletes or outdoor use, and others prioritize phone connectivity and everyday convenience. If you’re thinking of getting a smart watch, there are a few critical things to know about the different types of smart watches you’ll encounter while shopping.

Smart Watch vs. Fitness Trackers: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve already started looking for a smart watch, you’ve probably noticed that many devices look and function alike. Smart watches and fitness trackers, for example, share several features and look strikingly similar, but they’re not quite the same thing. The fundamental difference between the two comes down to phone connectivity.

Fitness trackers are relatively basic compared to smart watches and often have a sleeker, lightweight bracelet-style design that makes them suitable for casual, everyday wear. They’re designed solely to track health and fitness metrics, such as steps, calories, and distance. Some newer models also track sleep or heart rate, but they typically stop there.

Smart watches, on the other hand, can do all of those fitness features plus smartphone connectivity. You can control music playback, make and receive calls, reply to texts, and use mobile apps – all from your wrist. In short, fitness trackers monitor your activity, while smart watches help you stay connected as well.

What To Consider Before Buying a Smart Watch

Many smart watches look similar on the surface, but what’s inside can differ greatly. Before buying one, here are the most important features and factors to think about.

Battery Life

One of the most important things to consider is battery life. Most smart watches offer at least a full day of battery with moderate usage, but most fall within the 2-3 day range. However, several models provide 7+ days of battery life on a full charge in standby mode.

You can usually charge a smart watch pretty quickly, but frequent charging can still become a hassle. That’s why it’s best to get a smart watch with at least a few days’ worth of battery life on a single charge.

Compatibility

Not all smart watches are compatible with all smartphones. Although many do offer compatibility with both Android and Apple phones, some smart watches can only sync with one operating system. Some can work with both, but may offer limited functionality depending on the phone.

Health and Fitness Tracking

Which health and fitness features are most important to you?

That’s an important question to ask yourself because not every smart watch has a sensor for every viable metric. Most can track calories, steps, distance, and time elapsed during exercise, but more advanced smart watches have built-in heart rate monitors, blood oxygen sensors, and sleep tracking.

Design

Like traditional wristwatches, smart watches come in a range of shapes and sizes. Personal taste plays a big role, but your wrist size should also be a deciding factor.

Larger cases typically offer a larger display and sometimes longer battery life, but they can feel bulky on smaller wrists. Slimmer, bracelet-style watches are lightweight and great for workouts, though they often have fewer features and smaller screens.

If you plan to wear your smart watch all day, prioritize comfort and readability as much as functionality.

GPS vs. Cellular

GPS-only smart watches rely on smartphone connectivity to function and are a solid option if you always have your phone on you. However, if you want to do away with your phone for extended periods but stay connected, a smart watch with cellular capabilities is a must.

One thing to note is that you’ll have to purchase a separate wireless plan for your smart watch.

Water Resistance

Want to go for a swim while wearing your smart watch? Most smart watches are water-resistant enough to be worn while swimming or during activities that may involve water splashing, but the level of protection can vary.

If you plan to swim, surf, or kayak with your watch on, check the IP rating or ATM rating (for example, 5ATM means it’s safe up to 50 meters). While most models handle rain or splashes just fine, not all are suitable for full submersion. Always confirm your watch’s rating before taking it into the water.

Smart Features

Beyond health tracking, smart watches double as mini smartphone companions. Depending on the model, you can:

• Receive and respond to notifications
• Control or stream music
• Make calls and send messages
• Use NFC for contactless payments
• Access voice assistants (like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant)

These features add everyday convenience, especially when you want to stay connected without pulling out your phone.

Types of Smart Watches

Now we’ll get into the most common types of smart watches you can choose from. The right smart watch for you depends on various factors, including your health and fitness goals, smartphone compatibility, comfort, and the features that are most important to you.

It’s important to note that some smart watches prioritize more than one specific thing, so you’ll see some crossover when shopping.

Fitness Smart Watches

If you’re an athlete, avid gym-goer, or just live an active lifestyle, a fitness smart watch can be your best friend. Fitness smart watches are sleek and can track various health and fitness metrics. Popular examples of these smart watches include the Fitbit Sense 2 and the Garmin Forerunner 970.

The best fitness smart watches can detect when you’re working out, playing a sport, and when your heart rate goes up, and automatically start tracking core fitness metrics. If you enjoy a variety of activities, you may want to consider a smart watch that offers multiple preset exercise modes for weightlifting, swimming, yoga, golf, and more.

Fitbit Sense 2

Lifestyle / Everyday Smart Watches

Those looking for a smart watch that focuses on core metrics and convenience should consider a simple lifestyle model. These watches aren’t nearly as robust as outdoor watches, and can be worn virtually 24/7 without any discomfort, even while sleeping. Although they don’t offer as many premium features as other smart watches, they make for fantastic beginner smart watches and usually provide significant phone functionality.

Lifestyle smart watches often allow you to make and receive phone calls, texts, and phone notifications. They also offer GPS capabilities so you can track outdoor workouts. The best lifestyle watches for everyday wear right now include models such as the Apple Watch 10, Fitbit Charge 6, Samsung Galaxy Watch8, and Garmin Vivoactive 6.

Apple Watch 10

Hybrid Smart Watches

Don’t like the look of the average smart watch? You’re not alone. The boxy or clunky look of many smart watches turns some people off. However, if you’re a fan of traditional watches, a hybrid smart watch may be just right for you. They have a conventional watch design but have integrated sensors that give them smart watch capabilities. They look like regular wristwatches on the outside, but they can track various health metrics simultaneously.

The best hybrid smart watches have a hidden display, which gives them long battery life and a less “techy” look. Some hybrid models to consider are the Garmin Vivomove Trend, Withings Scanwatch Nova, and Pininfarina Sintesi. These watches are stylish enough for both the office and special occasions, and most people won’t even realize you’re wearing a smart watch.

Garmin Vivomove Trend

Outdoor Smart Watches

Outdoor enthusiasts should consider a watch that’s built to withstand the elements. They offer similar functionality to standard smart watches, but they’re optimized for outdoor use. Outdoor watches are bulky and provide longer battery life than most lifestyle smart watches. They’re often made from robust materials such as titanium and are highly scratch and shock-resistant.

Although many smart watches have GPS capabilities for tracking outdoor workouts, it’s twice as important with an outdoor smart watch. It should provide accurate positioning in forests, canyons, and other dense areas using GPS, GLONASS, or Galileo satellite systems. After all, the last thing you want is inaccurate tracking when exploring remote areas. Some of the top models include the Garmin Instinct 3, Apple Watch Ultra, and the Coros Apex 2.

Garmin Instinct 3

Kids’ Smart Watches

It’s essential to stay in contact with your child at all times, but a smartphone might not always be the best solution. A smart watch can keep them connected to you without a smartphone. It can provide a live GPS location and a communication channel, allowing you to send text messages and receive tracking alerts. They’re not as expensive as adult smart watches, and usually have a barebones design.

Like other smart watches, most kids’ models track health metrics, but a notable feature is that many come with fun, educational apps that help kids learn and develop skills. Some of the best kids’ smart watches are the Verizon Gizmo Watch 3, TickTalk 5, and Gabb Watch 3e.

Gabb Watch 3e

Luxury Smart Watches

Luxury smart watches offer an aesthetic that makes them suitable for special occasions or everyday wear, if you wish. They’re usually made with high-end materials such as sapphire crystal and titanium, and boast advanced craftsmanship for a sophisticated look and feel. They offer many of the same features you’d get with a standard smart watch, but often, there are additional premium features exclusive to the brand. They’re ideal for users who value high-end design and craftsmanship along with modern connected features.

If you’re looking to upgrade, consider models like the VERTU Grand Watch, TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4, and Garmin MARQ. We can even lump in the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, as they’re the premium flagship models of two of the most popular smart watch brands.

TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4

Golf Smart Watches

Golfers can be pretty obsessive about their game, which makes a golf smart watch a must-have for any enthusiast who wants to gain an edge while on the course. Golf smart watches are preloaded with thousands of golf courses, complete with layouts of greens, hazards, and bunkers. They’re durable and built to withstand rain and outdoor conditions, while offering features such as shot tracking, accurate distance tracking, scorekeeping, and swing analysis.

Golf smart watches are a godsend for players who want to improve their game, and in addition to premium golf features, they’re often fantastic for other outdoor activities as well. Top golf smart watches to consider include the Garmin Approach S70 Golf Watch and  SkyCaddie LX5 GPS Watch.

Garmin Approach S70 Golf Watch

How Much Does A Smart Watch Cost?

Smart watch prices vary greatly depending on various factors, including materials, features, and specs:

• $50–$200: Entry-level lifestyle and kids’ smart watches are usually on the cheaper side. Most models in this price range offer smart functionality, but aren’t as accurate or durable as more expensive smart watches.
• $200–$500: Mid-tier smart watches in this price range are often more than enough for casual everyday wear, outdoor enthusiasts, and athletes. They usually have multiple sensors for tracking various metrics, and additional smart features for phone convenience.
• $500–$1,000+: High-end smart watches made with premium materials and advanced features usually fall within this range, though some luxury, hybrid, or outdoor models can exceed $1,000.

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