The Best Smartwatches in 2024
By Elisabeth Christ
Updated March 2024
In today's fast-paced digital world, a smartwatch does more than just tell time—it's a personal assistant, fitness coach, and entertainment hub, all strapped to your wrist. Therefore, in this listicle, we'll take you through the latest offerings from some of the biggest names in the tech industry, breaking down their key features, design highlights, and overall performance. Whether you're in the market for something luxurious, practical, or a perfect blend of both, join us as we explore what each of these smart timepieces has to offer.
Best for Features: Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
✓ Ultra-durable Sapphire Crystal glass
✓ Exynos W930 chipset
✓ 3-in-1 Biosensor for comprehensive health tracking
✓ FDA-approved irregular heart rhythm monitoring
Best for Health Monitoring: Google Pixel Watch 2
✓ Quad-core processor
✓ cEDA sensor
✓ Safety Check feature
✓ Up to 24 hours of battery life
Best for Adventure: Apple Watch Ultra 2
✓ 50% brighter display with 3,000 nits
✓ IP6X, EN13319, and MIL-STD-810H certification
✓ S9 chip and a 4-core Neural Engine
✓ Up to 72 hours of battery life
Best for Budget: Apple Watch SE 2
✓ Midnight, Starlight, or Silver color options
✓ S8 processor
✓ watchOS 9
✓ Up to 18 hours of battery life
Best for Battery Life: Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5
✓ 5ATM water resistance
✓ Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 processor
✓ OLED and a low-power monochrome screen incorporate
✓ Up to 80 hours of battery life
#1 Best for Features: Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
Price & Design
Stepping into the spotlight with a price tag of $300, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 isn't just a piece of tech—it's a statement. Available in two sizes (40mm and 44mm) and three sleek color options (black, silver, and gold), it offers something for everyone. The design speaks volumes with its thinner bezels and an aluminium case, giving it a more expansive display without increasing the overall size. It’s almost like magic, the way the smaller borders create an illusion of a larger screen, all protected by ultra-durable Sapphire Crystal glass. Not to mention, it's pretty robust too, boasting a brightness of 2,000 nits and water resistance ratings (IP68 and 5ATM) that make it a fearless companion for any adventure.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
Features & Performance
Under the hood, the Galaxy Watch 6 is a powerhouse, thanks to the new Exynos W930 chipset that revs up performance by 18%. It’s a device that thrives in Samsung's ecosystem, bringing a suite of features that cater to just about every need. From the 3-in-1 Biosensor that keeps tabs on your heart rate, EKGs, and body composition, to the built-in GPS and temperature sensor for those exploratory runs, it’s got you covered. And for the fitness enthusiasts, the new Track Run sport profile, menstruation cycle tracking, and the ability to customize heart rate zones post-run elevate the experience. There’s even a third-party Thermo Check app for those moments when you need to know the temperature of your surroundings. Health monitoring gets a tech-forward twist with the Samsung Health Monitor app, providing EKG readings and improved SpO2 readings during sleep. Plus, with the enhanced Emergency SOS feature and FDA-approved monitoring for irregular heart rhythms, it's like having a health guardian on your wrist.
Battery Life
Battery life is where the Galaxy Watch 6 flexes its endurance muscles. With a battery capacity that varies depending on the model size (300mAh for the smaller and 425mAh for the larger), it promises up to 40 hours of usage without the always-on display. And for those times when you’re running low, an 8-minute fast charge can give you an additional 8 hours of battery life. However, it’s worth noting that engaging the more power-intensive features might have you reaching for the charger more often than you’d like.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
Best for Features
✓ Ultra-durable Sapphire Crystal glass
✓ Exynos W930 chipset
✓ 3-in-1 Biosensor for comprehensive health tracking
✓ FDA-approved irregular heart rhythm monitoring
#2 Best for Health Monitoring: Google Pixel Watch 2
Google Pixel Watch 2
Price & Design
The Google Pixel Watch 2, priced at a cool $350, marches onto the scene, holding tight to the design ethos of its predecessor, yet bringing subtle refinements. Nestled in a singular 41mm option, it boasts smooth edges and a domed glass that embraces the display, giving it a sleek, contemporary feel. The highlight, however, is the rotating crown with better haptic feedback, making menu navigation a breeze. Crafted from 100% recycled aluminum, the watch not only feels lighter and more comfortable on the wrist but also nods to Google's commitment to sustainability.
Google Pixel Watch 2
Features & Performance
Diving into the heart of the Pixel Watch 2, it's powered by a new quad-core processor that nudges the smoother operation and quicker app loading times, enhancing the overall user experience. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the automatic workout tracking and the innovative cEDA sensor that monitors skin temperature. The watch doesn't stop there; it integrates seamlessly with Google's suite of apps, provides accurate heart rate readings, and offers over 40 exercise modes. Google Assistant is ever-present, ready to simplify your day, while the Safety Check feature stands as a testament to Google's focus on user well-being, allowing you to alert emergency contacts with ease. These features, coupled with the ability to monitor body responses and stress levels, position the Pixel Watch 2 as a smart companion that's in tune with your life and health.
Battery Life
Battery life, however, is where the Pixel Watch 2 walks a fine line. With the always-on display activated, it promises around 24 hours of use. Additionally, 30 minutes on the charger breathes back 50% battery life and an hour almost fills it up. The inclusion of a magnetic four-pin charging cradle ensures that when it's time to power up, the process is quick and hassle-free.
Google Pixel Watch 2
Best for Health Monitoring
✓ Quad-core processor
✓ cEDA sensor
✓ Safety Check feature
✓ Up to 24 hours of battery life
#3 Best for Adventure: Apple Watch Ultra 2
Apple Watch Ultra 2
Price & Design
At a premium price point of $780, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is not just another smartwatch; it's an investment in a piece of cutting-edge technology wrapped around your wrist. This device boasts a 49mm case that's 50% brighter than its predecessor with 3,000-nit display that somehow doesn't put a dent in the battery life. Its design, while retaining the familiar rectangular shape with smooth, rounded edges, feels more rugged and adventure-ready. Crafted from aerospace-grade titanium, it doesn't just talk the talk but walks the walk with IP6X dust resistance, EN13319 diving certification for those underwater escapades, and MIL-STD-810H durability. Plus, with a built-in flashlight and automatic Night mode, this watch is ready for any adventure you throw at it.
Apple Watch Ultra 2
Features & Performance
Diving deeper into its capabilities, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is powered by the S9 chip and a 4-core Neural Engine, making interactions snappy and enabling more complex on-device Siri requests. With WatchOS 10 at its core, it boasts three-microphone array for clearer calls, a dual-speaker system, and an emergency siren loud enough to attract attention in dire situations. The innovative Double Tap feature simplifies commands, allowing users to manage functions with a simple index-thumb fingers gesture. Its cellular connectivity ensures you’re never out of the loop, even when your iPhone isn’t nearby. And for the divers and swimmers, the integration with watchOS Oceanic+ offers a dedicated freedive mode, making it a versatile companion for both terrestrial and aquatic adventures
Battery Life
Battery life on the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is where it truly shines. On a normal day, expect about 36 hours of use, but with the always-on display cranked to maximum brightness, it can still push through 55 hours. Engage Low Power Mode, and you're looking at an impressive 72 hours of battery longevity. Even GPS-intensive activities are covered, with up to 12 hours of tracking on a single charge. And when it's time to power up, the transition to a USB Type-C to MagSafe-puck cable ensures that charging is both fast and convenient.
Apple Watch Ultra 2
Best for Adventure
✓ 50% brighter display with 3,000 nits
✓ IP6X, EN13319, and MIL-STD-810H certification
✓ S9 chip and a 4-core Neural Engine
✓ Up to 72 hours of battery life
#4 Best for Budget: Apple Watch SE 2
Apple Watch SE 2
Price & Design
In the bustling world of smartwatches, the Apple Watch SE 2 emerges as a beacon of accessibility and practicality, with its pricing starting at $250 for the 40mm version. This smartwatch retains the signature rounded rectangle design of its predecessor, cloaked in an aluminum body and available in three sleek color options: Midnight, Starlight, or Silver. The design may not break new ground, but its familiarity is part of its charm, offering a comfortable wear and swimproof capabilities up to 50 meters, ensuring it can keep up with your daily adventures without skipping a beat.
Apple Watch SE 2
Features & Performance
Performance-wise, the Apple Watch SE 2 is no slouch. Powered by the S8 processor and running on watchOS 9, it delivers a smooth user experience, from flicking through notifications with a flick of the wrist to accessing a suite of apps swiftly. While it may lack the features of its higher-end siblings such as always-on display, ECG, and blood oxygen tracking, this smartwatch covers the essentials. It offers comprehensive activity tracking, instant GPS connectivity for your runs, and seamless integration with the Apple Health and Apple Fitness apps, making it a solid choice for those looking to stay active and connected without overwhelming complexity.
Battery Life
Battery life is where the SE 2 plays it safe, offering up to 18 hours with GPS usage, stretching to two days with moderate use. The use of the familiar magnetic puck for charging speaks to the continuity in Apple's design ethos, ensuring that even as the tech evolves, the user experience remains intuitive and straightforward.
Apple Watch SE 2
Best for Budget
✓ Midnight, Starlight, or Silver color options
✓ S8 processor
✓ watchOS 9
✓ Up to 18 hours of battery life
#5 Best for Battery Life: Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5
Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5
Price & Design
The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 comes with a $350 price tag, positioning itself as a compelling contender in the wearable tech arena. Its design marries functionality with simplicity, featuring a streamlined look complemented by knurled edges on the metal bezel that lend it a touch of sophistication. The watch doesn't shy away from durability, boasting MIL-STD-810H certification and water resistance up to 50 meters, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of daily life. With a body made of aluminum and a plastic case back, it balances ruggedness with comfort, further enhanced by the choice between flexible silicone straps or leather for a more personalized look.
Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5
Features & Performance
Behind the elegant and subtle appearance, the TicWatch Pro 5 packs a punch with the Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 chip, powering Wear OS 3.5 for a smooth and responsive user experience. With 2GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage, it offers ample space for apps and data. The watch shines with its dual-layer display technology, featuring a 1.43-inch OLED screen for vibrant interactions and a low-power monochrome layer for always-on essentials like time and step count. Health and fitness tracking is robust, with features like heart rate monitoring, VO2 Max estimation, and over 100 workout modes, all easily accessible through Mobvoi’s integrated apps.
Battery Life
Battery life is where the TicWatch Pro 5 truly stands out than others, boasting an impressive 628mAh capacity that can deliver up to 80 hours of usage. This stamina means more time engaging with its features and less time tethered to a charger, though actual battery life will vary based on how you use it. Charging is straightforward, thanks to a proprietary magnetic attachment pin, ensuring you're quickly back to full power in just over an hour. While the absence of Qi wireless charging might be noted by some, the overall battery performance and charging convenience make the TicWatch Pro 5 a reliable partner for those on the move.
Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5
Best for Battery Life
✓ 5ATM water resistance
✓ Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 processor
✓ OLED and a low-power monochrome screen incorporate
✓ Up to 80 hours of battery life
LATEST RELEASE RECCOMMENDATIONS
1. Garmin Venu 3
Garmin Venu 3
The Garmin Venu 3, priced at $450 and released on August 2023, melds sophistication with functionality, featuring a 45mm round face, stainless steel bezel, and a vibrant AMOLED screen. It's a fitness enthusiast's dream, offering extensive workout modes, ECG, heart rate variability, and the innovative Body Battery feature, all aimed at optimizing wellness. With up to 14 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, it expertly balances feature-rich capabilities with longevity, making it an ideal companion for those seeking to delve deep into their health and fitness journey without constant recharges.
2. OnePlus Watch 2
OnePlus Watch 2
The OnePlus Watch 2 enters the fray at $300 on March 4, 2024, offering an elegant design with its stainless steel casing and sapphire crystal-protected AMOLED display. Operating on Snapdragon W5+ processor, it brings a smooth Wear OS experience with a focus on health tracking, including heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and sleep and stress monitoring, despite lacking some advanced health features. Its standout battery life, capable of lasting two weeks in power saver mode, alongside rapid charging, ensures it keeps pace with your lifestyle, blending style, functionality, and endurance seamlessly.
Garmin Venu 3
Best for Athletes
✓ AMOLED display
✓ Personalized workout suggestions
✓ Variety of sports types support
✓ Up to 14 days of battery life
OnePlus Watch 2
Best for Performance
✓ Sharp AMOLED screen
✓ Snapdragon W5+ processor
✓ Google Wear OS software
✓ Up to 2 weeks (14 days) of battery life
Compare Smartwatches
Final Thoughts
After reviewing the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6, Google Pixel Watch 2, Apple Watch Ultra 2, Apple Watch SE, and Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5, with additional latest release Garmin Venu 3 and OnePlus Watch 2, it's clear that each one has its own strengths and weaknesses.Depending on your specific needs and budget, one of these watches may be the perfect fit for you. If you're looking for a watch with a long battery life, the TicWatch Pro 5 or Garmin Venu 3 is a great choice. For those who prioritize style and design, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a standout. And if you're looking for an affordable option that still has all the key features, the Apple Watch SE is a solid choice. Ultimately, the best smartwatch for you will depend on your individual preferences and priorities.
If you like to read more about smartwatches, check out our other relevant guides here:
Mobvoi Ticwatch Pro 5 vs Garmin Venu 3: Battle of The Brands
OnePlus Watch 2 vs Mobvoi Ticwatch Pro 5: Which Smartwatch Offers More Value for Your Money?
OnePlus Watch 2 vs Amazfit GTR 2: The Ultimate Smartwatch Showdown
OnePlus Watch 2 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 6: The Battle for Wearable Technology
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