If you’re thinking of purchasing your first smartwatch but aren’t sure where to start, this guide is for you! Smartwatches are wrist-worn devices that connect to your smartphone to deliver notifications, track fitness data, and more right to your wrist. With so many options on the market, buying your first smartwatch can feel overwhelming. This beginner’s guide will walk you through everything you need to know to pick the right smartwatch for your needs and budget.
Key Uses and Features
When considering your first smartwatch, start by thinking about how you plan to use it. Here are some of the main uses and features available:
– Notifications – Get app alerts, calls, texts, and reminders sent to your wrist so you can view them without pulling out your phone.
– Health/Fitness Tracking – Built-in sensors track steps, distance, calories burned, heart rate, and more. See your progress right on your wrist.
– Sleep Tracking – Monitor sleep stages, consistency, and quality over time.
– Voice Assistance – Use voice commands with Google Assistant or Siri to set reminders, control smart home devices, and more hands-free.
– GPS – Track outdoor activity routes and pacing without bringing your phone.
– Smart Home Control – Control smart lighting, thermostats, and other connected home devices from your watch screen.
– Mobile Payments – Pay for purchases directly from your wrist using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay.
Key Factors to Consider
Once you know the main smartwatch features that appeal to you, keep these key factors in mind while shopping:
Compatibility
Smartwatches connect to and interact with your smartphone. So it’s crucial to pick one that is compatible with your iPhone or Android device.
For iPhones, look for the Apple Watch, which is often ranked among the best smartwatches for iPhone users. For Android, look for Wear OS by Google watches or Samsung’s Tizen watches, which are also regularly top-rated smartwatches for Android.
Some, like Fitbit, also work with both iPhone and Android but may have limited functionality.
Design
Consider the overall look and feel you want for your smartwatch. Important factors include:
– Display size: Screens range from tiny 1-inch displays up to chunky 1.9-inch displays. Smaller works well for petite wrists while larger ones make notifications easier to read.
– Band Material: Look for comfortable and durable silicone, leather, stainless steel, and more. Make sure to pick a watch band size that fits well.
– Customization: Some smartwatches offer customizable watch faces so you can personalize the look.
– Durability level: If you use your watch during intense activity, look for waterproofing and scratch-resistant glass.
Features
Determine which features are must-haves vs. nice-to-haves based on your planned usage. Not all smartwatches have every feature. Prioritize what’s most important like GPS for outdoor workouts or mobile payments for errands.
Battery Life
Battery life varies widely from 1 day to over a week in some cases. Consider how often you want to charge based on your usage. For intensive use, aim for at least 2 days of battery to be safe.
Budget
Smartwatch prices span from affordable $100 models to luxury $1000+ options. Set a comfortable budget and look for sales around the holidays. Costco often has great deals on Apple Watches!
By carefully weighing these factors, even smartwatch beginners can feel confident choosing the right model. Don’t be overwhelmed by all the options—simply focus on the features and capabilities that matter most for your needs. Happy smartwatch shopping!