The Ultimate Smartwatch Buyer's Guide

With so many options at your disposal, it might get a little confusing to finalize the best one for yourself. Don't worry; we've got you covered, so here's the Ultimate Smartwatch Buyer's Guide.

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Android or IOS?

Depending on your smartphone's operating system, you can opt for an Android or IOS based wearable. If you are an Android user, there's no point in buying an Apple Watch, but if you own an iPhone, there's nothing better than the latest watch series from Apple! Although the Apple Watch Series 6 and Apple Watch SE are the best available smart-wearables options in 2020, Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 is still the best choice in the Android-wearable section. 

IOS-based Wearables 

Apple Watch Series 6 

When it comes to IOS-based wearables, there's no smartwatch better than the two latest models from Apple, namely the Apple Watch Series 6 and the Apple Watch SE. The Series 6 watch is loaded with top-end features, it has a user-friendly interface, is extremely reliable, and its looks are absolutely gorgeous. The features that differentiate the two apple watches are the new processors, - where the electrocardiogram and blood oxygen sensors set them apart. Not only that, but the always-on display in the Series 6 watch is another feature that makes it a winner. While these features might not be worth the price tag to some users, they certainly make the Series 6 Watch stand out. If money isn't a problem, you should seriously consider the Apple Series 6 as your next Smartwatch! 

Apple Watch SE

The SE version of the Apple Watch is quite similar to the Series 6 version, except that it sports an S5 chip and doesn't include an always-on display feature, ECG, or SpO2. However, it is as fashionable and as utility-filled as the Series 6 watch. What's best is that it is $120 cheaper than the latter. Of course, the Series 6 Apple watch will be longer-lasting, but the SE version is not far behind when it comes to dependability. Looking at these two Apple products on a technical and usability level, both watches tops our list of best smartwatches to buy in 2020!

Before we delve into which Android smartwatch is the best option for you to buy, let us take a look at the features of the new-gen Apple watches. 

Features of the Apple Watch

Both of these Apple Watches are equipped with numerous incomparable features. These watches come with two different case sizes to choose from: a 40mm or the 44mm alternative, which is a slight but significant difference. The recommended option is, of course, the sturdy aluminum body, which is also made from 100% recycled materials, and it also comes with a strap of your choice. As previously mentioned, the Series 6 features an always-on screen, which has the perk of allowing you to check the time without having to turn your wrist. 

Talking about the fitness features, these smart wearables provide in-depth progress of your daily goals. There's also the option of sleep tracking with the help of the device's activity rings. It shows reminders to be active when you've been resting for a long time, and it also has a GPS, an automatic hand wash timer, an option to track menstrual cycles, a useful noise app that warns you when you're prone to hearing damage, and for the fitness enthusiasts, a heart rate sensor. 

Isn't that amazing? The watches also have in-built workout plans that include yoga, cycling, hiking, and even swimming (the case is water-proof). The Apple smartwatches are excellent fitness trackers, with user-user friendly interfaces as well as plenty of alerts to keep you motivated towards your fitness goals.

The battery life of these wearables is great in both versions and can have the battery running for a whopping two days; this includes sleep-tracking turned on as well. The SE version can last longer in terms of battery life since it is devoid of the always-on screen feature. These watches support multiple applications because of the underlying software that is super-fast and super-reliable. Making and receiving calls is seamless with these watches. You can have your primary number connected to the watches, or you can even opt for smartwatches with SIMs, which you can fully operate without the help of a smartphone! This also comes in handy if you don't want to be disturbed while on your morning jog.

Android-based Wearables

Samsung Galaxy Watch 3

The consumers who don't own an Apple device are in luck with Samsung's Galaxy Watch 3, which competes with the Apple Watch. This smartwatch runs on Samsung's Tizen software and is compatible with any smartphone (even an iPhone). Similar to the above-mentioned watches, this flagship smartwatch also features scrolling menus with swipe options to access its features. The prime catch of the Galaxy Watch is its awesome rotating bezel, which makes using the watch more natural and much easier.

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The Galaxy Watch 3 requires users to install Samsung's Galaxy Wear app; this manages and monitors various features and applications of the wearable. This smartwatch is available in two case sizes as well, while sporting an AMOLED display that boasts sharp colors. Of course, the Gorilla Glass keeps the watch safe from drops and other kinds of shocks that the screen may suffer. This impressively adds to the watch's durability, giving it a high-quality feel.

The low-weight glass case is reportedly very comfortable on the wrist. The watch is also water-resistant with an impressive rating of IP68. However, the battery will easily drain after a day of hard use since it records your activity and sleeps all day long. Much like its competitor, the battery can last for a whopping 48 hours two days if you turn it off for the night to save power. Samsung's Galaxy Watch 3 is priced around the same range as Apple's smartwatches and is, in fact, the best Smartwatch for all Android users.

A smartwatch can prove to be a high-utility addition to your gadgets since it provides ease-of-access to your smartphone, is an excellent fitness tracker, boosts connectivity, and it definitely looks fancier than a traditional watch! With the help of our guide, you can compare the prices of these high-end products and decide on the one that suits your needs best.

Marvin Fry

Update 09 October 2020