Smart, elegant and practical: Wearables can now do so much more than just display the time and receive text messages: They are accessories and mini computers in one. Smartwatches keep an eye on the health of their wearers, present their fitness success and make everyday life easier.
Finding the smartwatch that best fits your wrist is not that easy. After all, there are countless models from tech giants like Apple, Samsung and Fitbit to choose from. Operating system, compatibility with your own smartphone, battery life, available apps and the price are just a few comparable features that a buyer should consider. That’s why TECHBOOK went on a search and found the five best smartwatches for everyday use.
What must a good smartwatch be able to do?
As small as a conventional wristwatch and yet as powerful as a computer. Smartwatches offer every user a range of functions – according to their own user profile. Whether fitness tracker, health check, digital wallet or addition to your own cell phone – the best smartwatches are all this and much more. You can measure the heartbeat and at the same time send an e-mail via voice assistant. In addition, the battery should survive every sports session or every business meeting.
If you want a smartwatch from the big manufacturers, you often have to dig deeper into your pocket. Nevertheless, there is something for every taste: whether it’s a fashionable timepiece, a practical assistant on the wrist or an elegant second screen for a smartphone. TECHBOOK has found the best smartwatches for every type of user.
The Apple all-rounder: Apple Watch Series 7
No surprise: Although the Apple Watch Series 7 is no longer coming with such an exciting update as the blood oxygen app, the bottom line is that Apple wins. The Apple Watch Series 7 shines with the well-known range of functions of the previous models and convinces with a larger display and a more robust design in new colors. Although this model is also only compatible with an iPhone, the LTE version makes phone calls and surfs the Internet even when the smartphone is left at home. The battery life of the Apple Watch Series 7 has been improved to up to 18 hours and the quick charge function promises that this smart companion will be used again quickly. It is not for nothing that the Apple Watch Series 7 was also named the best smartwatch 2022 by Stiftung Warentest.
Equipment of the Apple Watch Series 7
Advantages and disadvantages of the Apple Watch Series 7
Rating at idealo: grade 1.6 | 4.5 out of 5 stars; Stiftung Warentest grade 2.0 (1st place)
Per
- + Convenient operation thanks to the large display
- + Range of functions and regular updates
- + LTE version for telephoning without a smartphone
- + Robust protection against dust and water
cons
- – Relatively short battery life
- – Only compatible with iPhone
The Samsung classic: Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic
Classic watch design paired with modern functions: The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic offers a perfect mix of timeless design and a new operating system that allows access to various Google services such as Google Maps, Google Assist and Google Play. Sports and fitness enthusiasts will also enjoy the new BioActive sensor, which measures numerous health parameters such as blood pressure, body fat percentage and calorie consumption. Unfortunately, some functions are reserved for Samsung smartphone owners only. With a running time of 40 hours, a good feel and an elegant look, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is still a stylish all-rounder on the smartwatch market.
Also read: How well does the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 perform in the test?
Features of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic
Advantages and disadvantages of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic
Rating at idealo: grade 1.9 / 2.5 out of 5 stars; Stiftung Warentest grade 2.4
Per
- + New Wear OS operating system
- + Classic, timeless design in stainless steel
- + BioActive sensor for fitness functions
- + Google services available
cons
- – Not compatible with iPhones
- – no voice control
- – Slightly rigid bracelet shape and higher weight
- – Only available in black and silver
The outdoor professional: Garmin Fenix 6 Pro
With its waterproof and robust housing, the Garmin Fenix 6 Pro is the perfect companion for any outdoor activity. Although smartwatch functions such as Garmin Pay and Spotify are more in the background, it is an all-round talent when it comes to sports and fitness: be it swimming, cycling, hiking or rowing – the Garmin Fenix 6 Pro has the right app for it! However, its biggest advantage is the excellent battery life, which does not let the user down even on relatively long sports units or excursions. The Fenix is thus establishing itself as a premium sports watch with numerous smart elements. The Stiftung Warentest also confirms the good performance and awarded second place in the test of the best smartwatches 2022.
Features of the Garmin Fenix 6 Pro
Advantages and disadvantages of the Garmin Fenix 6 Pro
Rating at idealo: grade 1.7 | 4.5 out of 5 stars; Stiftung Warentest grade 2.1 (2nd place)
Per
- + Offline navigation
- + Excellent battery life
- + Robust design and waterproof
- + Suitable for many sports
cons
- – No voice assistant
- – Smartphone functions more in the background
The cheapest Apple Watch: Apple Watch SE
If you don’t want to dig too deep into your pocket and still don’t want to do without the usual quality standard from Apple, you will find a cost-effective alternative in the Apple Watch SE. This does not have to hide behind more expensive Apple models such as the Apple Watch 6: The Apple Watch SE serves as a reliable fitness tracker, is waterproof and scratch-resistant, measures the heart rate during training and records sleeping behavior. At the same time, it is a replacement for the smartphone by sending messages and answering calls – even if the mobile phone is not within range.
Features of the Apple Watch SE
Advantages and disadvantages of the Apple Watch SE
Rating at idealo: grade 1.9 | 4 out of 5 stars
Per
- + Large selection of apps, tracking and smartwatch functions
- + Regular updates
- + Bright and scratch-resistant display
- – Relatively short battery life
- – Only compatible with iPhones
– Without ECG and blood oxygen measurement - – No always-on display
Fitness tracker for beginners: Fitbit Versa 3
With Versa 3, market leader Fitbit relies on an improved version of the well-established concept: versatile training options with practical smartwatch features designed to make life easier. In addition, there is the newly integrated GPS receiver, which records precise routes and provides information on the most important factors such as distance and speed. Sensors not only measure the oxygen saturation in the blood and the heart rate and respiratory rate in everyday life and during training, but also during sleep. This creates a comprehensive health picture. Thanks to the built-in microphone and loudspeaker function, calls can also be accepted directly on the wrist. The strengths of Fitbit Versa 3 lie in its ease of use and the clear always-on display – ideally suited for smartwatch beginners and fitness professionals alike.
Features of the Fitbit Versa 3
Pros and cons of the Fitbit Versa 3
Rating at idealo: grade 1.8 | 4.5 out of 5 stars
- + Numerous health and training options
- + Detailed sleep record
- + Permanent time display
cons
- – No LTE version
- – A little sluggish at times
Conclusion
Step counting was yesterday – smartwatches are so much more than just static fitness bracelets these days. With a glance at the wrist, they analyze the health of the wearer, measure their fitness success and motivate them to new peak performances. At the same time, they impress with new functions that make people more active and mobile and make everyday life easier. Listen to your favorite podcast during your workout or make a reservation at your local bar – a good smartwatch is both a motivator and an assistant.
The big top dogs like Apple, Samsung and Fitbit are constantly bringing new products onto the market that impress with their multitude of properties and a consistent standard – the bill is often a bit higher for this. The agony of choice is to decide whether the smartwatch should be able to do everything or be particularly good in one area. The beauty, however, is that wearables connect with the world and at the same time encourage people to live healthier and more active lives.
More worth knowing articles about smartwatches
For everyone who still hasn’t found the right smartwatch: TECHBOOK offers many other articles on the subject of fitness trackers and smartwatches. From product tests and purchase recommendations to news from the fitness industry – there is something for everyone!