The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (2024)

Table of Contents
Our Top 10 Picks Apple Watch Series 9 Garmin Venu Sq 2 Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Apple Watch SE Apple Watch Ultra 2 Fitbit Versa 4 Google Pixel Watch 2 Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 OnePlus Watch 2 Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic The Best Smartwatch Deals This Week* Recommended by Our Editors Apple Watch Series 9 Best Overall Why We Picked It Who It's For PROS CONS SPECS Garmin Venu Sq 2 Best Fitness-Focused Smartwatch Why We Picked It Who It's For PROS CONS SPECS Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Best Android Smartwatch Why We Picked It Who It's For PROS CONS SPECS Apple Watch SE Best Affordable Apple Watch Why We Picked It Who It's For PROS CONS SPECS Apple Watch Ultra 2 Best for Outdoor Adventurers Why We Picked It Who It's For PROS CONS SPECS Fitbit Versa 4 Best Fitbit Smartwatch Why We Picked It Who It's For PROS CONS SPECS Google Pixel Watch 2 Best for Style-Minded Android Users Why We Picked It Who It's For PROS CONS SPECS Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 Best Pixel Watch 2 Alternative Why We Picked It Who It's For PROS CONS SPECS OnePlus Watch 2 Best Battery Life Why We Picked It Who It’s For PROS CONS SPECS Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic Best for a Rotating Bezel Why We Picked It Who It's For PROS CONS SPECS Pick a Watch That Works With Your Phone Which Platform Offers the Best Smartwatch Apps? How Are Smartwatches and Fitness Trackers Different? Which Smartwatches Have Cellular and Are They Worth the Money? How Long Do Smartwatches Last? How Much Should You Spend on a Smartwatch? What's the Best Android Watch? What's the Best-Looking Smartwatch? Compare SpecsThe Best Smartwatches for 2024 Like What You're Reading? Further Reading TRENDING About Alex Colon About Angela Moscaritolo References

Upgrade your traditional watch by adding apps, data, and notifications to your wrist. Here are the features to look for, along with the top smartwatches we've tested.

ByAlex Colon

Alex Colon

Executive Editor, Reviews

My Experience

I’m PCMag’s executive editor of reviews, steering our coverage to make sure we're testing the products you're interested in buying and telling you whether they're worth it. I've been here for more than 10 years. I previously managed the consumer electronics reviews team, and before that I covered mobile, smart home, and wearable technology for PCMag and Gigaom.

Read Full Bio

&Angela Moscaritolo

Angela Moscaritolo

Managing Editor, Consumer Electronics

My Experience

I'm PCMag's managing editor for consumer electronics, overseeing an experienced team of analysts covering smart home, home entertainment, wearables, fitness and health tech, and various other product categories. I have been with PCMag for more than 10 years, and in that time have written more than 6,000 articles and reviews for the site. I previously served as an analyst focused on smart home and wearable devices, and before that I was a reporter covering consumer tech news. I'm also a yoga instructor, and have been actively teaching group and private classes for nearly a decade.

Read Full Bio

UpdatedFebruary 29, 2024

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  • RELATED:
  • Best Apple Watches
  • Best Android Watches
  • Best Samsung Watches
  • Best Fitness Trackers

Our Top 10 Picks

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (3)

Apple Watch Series 9

Best Overall

Jump ToDetails

$329.00 at Amazon $399.00Save $70.00See It

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (4)

Garmin Venu Sq 2

Best Fitness-Focused Smartwatch

Jump ToDetails

$229.99 at Amazon $249.99Save $20.00Check Stock

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (5)

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6

Best Android Smartwatch

Jump ToDetails

$247.00 at Amazon $299.99Save $52.99See It

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (6)

Apple Watch SE

Best Affordable Apple Watch

Jump ToDetails

$189.00 at Amazon $249.00Save $60.00See It

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (7)

Apple Watch Ultra 2

Best for Outdoor Adventurers

Jump ToDetails

$779.99 at Amazon See It

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (8)

Fitbit Versa 4

Best Fitbit Smartwatch

Jump ToDetails

$199.95 at Amazon See It

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (9)

Google Pixel Watch 2

Best for Style-Minded Android Users

Jump ToDetails

$349.99 at Amazon See It

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (10)

Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5

Best Pixel Watch 2 Alternative

Jump ToDetails

$349.99 at Amazon See It

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (11)

OnePlus Watch 2

Best Battery Life

Jump ToDetails

$289.99 at Amazon Check Stock

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (12)

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic

Best for a Rotating Bezel

Jump ToDetails

$339.00 at Amazon $399.99Save $60.99See It

The Best Smartwatch Deals This Week*

  • Apple Watch SE (GPS, 40mm, S/M, Midnight)$189.00(List Price $249)
  • Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic 43mm LTE Smartwatch (Black)$449.99
  • Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS, 45mm, S/M, Midnight)$349.00(List Price $429)
  • Fitbit Sense 2 Advanced Health and Fitness Smartwatch$249.95(List Price $299.95)
  • Amazfit GTS 2e Smartwatch (Black)$49.99(List Price $69.99)

*Deals are selected by our commerce team

The infamous calculator watch has been around since the 1970s, but watches have finally reached the point that they're, well, smart. With everything from app support to smartphone notification mirroring to heart rate monitoring, the latest smartwatches do a lot more than just tell time. But which one should you buy?

We've rounded up our favorites to help you decide. It's also important to know what to look for, so make sure to check out our buying guide at the end.

Recommended by Our Editors

Apple Watch Series 9 vs. Ultra 2 vs. SE: Which Watch Is Right For You?

An iPhone On Your Wrist: 28 Tips Every Apple Watch Owner Should Know

How We Test Fitness Trackers

You Can Trust Our Reviews

Since 1982, PCMag has tested and rated thousands of products to help you make better buying decisions.Read our editorial mission & see how we test.

Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (16)

Apple Watch Series 9

Best Overall

4.5 Outstanding

Why We Picked It

The Apple Watch Series 9 offers a broad suite of built-in lifestyle, fitness, health, and safety tools, plus the best selection of third-party apps for any smartwatch. The newest version features an impressively bright 2,000-nit display (up from 1,000 nits last generation) for improved outdoor visibility without an impact on battery life. Its new S9 SiC chip enables even more features, like on-device Siri processing, precise directional device finding with the iPhone 15 family, and a double-tap gesture for one-handed operation. With these upgrades, the Apple Watch Series 9 remains the best iPhone-compatible smartwatch for most buyers.

Who It's For

If you're in search of a feature-rich smartwatch to stay connected, keep tabs on your health, and track your fitness, the Series 9 is our Editors' Choice winner. It's worth the premium over the Watch SE for its larger screen, always-on display option, and advanced health-tracking capabilities.Just be aware that Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models sold in the US since Jan. 18, 2024 do not allow for blood oxygen saturation monitoring.

With the Series 9, you can choose from a 41mm (small) or 45mm (large) case in aluminum or stainless steel with Bluetooth, GPS, and Wi-Fi support, or add cellular connectivity to the mix. Stainless steel and cellular models cost extra. All aluminum Series 9 models paired with a new Sport Loop band are carbon neutral, as denoted by a green leaf logo on the packaging.

All three Apple smartwatches on this list require an iPhone Xs or later with iOS 17 or later and do not work with Android handsets.

PROS

  • Powerful processor
  • Bright display
  • Double-tap gesture for hands-free operation
  • On-device Siri
  • Precision Finding for iPhone 15 family
  • Carbon neutral build option

CONS

  • Familiar design

SPECS

NameValue
Phone OS CompatibilityiOS
Watch OSwatchOS
ProcessorApple S9
Display Size1.6 inches/1.8 inches
Display TypeOLED
Fitness FeaturesAccelerometer, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Blood Oxygen Monitor, Temperature Sensor
Estimated Battery Life18 hours
Separate App Store
Phone Call Capacity

GET IT NOW

$329.00 Amazon $399.00 Apple.com

Learn More

Apple Watch Series 9 Review

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (17)

Garmin Venu Sq 2

Best Fitness-Focused Smartwatch

4.0 Excellent

Why We Picked It

In the crowded fitness smartwatch market, Garmin's Venu Sq 2 stands out for its practicality. It features a large AMOLED color touch screen with a squarish design that offers better text legibility compared with round models. Battery life is also a strong suit: In testing, the Venu Sq 2 ran for up to nine days between charges with light use.As with the higher-end round Venu 2 series, the second-generation Sq model is a fitness-first wearable with a robust suite of workout- and health-tracking tools, but it also offers some useful lifestyle features, including calendar and weather apps, vibrating alarms, smartphone notifications, and Garmin Pay mobile payment support.

Who It's For

If you're looking for a reasonably affordable smartwatch with a focus on fitness, the Garmin Venu Sq 2 is an Editors' Choice winner. It pairs with smartphones running at least iOS 15 or Android 7.0 via the Garmin Connect app, so compatibility shouldn't be an issue. In addition to the base model, Garmin sells a Music Edition for $50 extra that offers onboard storage for up to 500 songs.

PROS

  • Large AMOLED touch screen
  • Weeklong battery life
  • Lightweight design
  • Plenty of health metrics
  • Contactless payments
  • Integrated GPS

CONS

  • Does not track floors climbed
  • Preloaded workouts are not animated
  • Limited lifestyle features

SPECS

NameValue
Phone OS CompatibilityAndroid, iOS
Watch OSProprietary
ProcessorN/A
Display Size1.41 inches
Display TypeAMOLED
Fitness FeaturesAccelerometer, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Blood Oxygen Monitor, Temperature Sensor
Estimated Battery Life9 days
Separate App Store
Phone Call Capacity

GET IT NOW

$229.99 Amazon

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Garmin Venu Sq 2 Review

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (18)

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6

Best Android Smartwatch

4.0 Excellent

Why We Picked It

Samsung didn't reinvent the wheel with its latest flagship smartwatch, but it didn't have to. This newest version features a bigger, brighter 2,000-nit display, at the expense of some battery life, with the same sleek design as its predecessor.

The Galaxy Watch 6 series runs Wear OS, which gives you access to all the standard Google apps like Assistant, Maps, Messages, and the Play Store. On the wellness front, the Galaxy Watch 6 offers a few features that are not available on the Apple Watch or Pixel Watch, including overnight snore tracking and body composition measurements.

The standard Galaxy Watch 6 features a touch bezel for quick scrolling, an aluminum case, and a water-friendly sport band. If you want a physical rotating bezel for even quicker, more precise scrolling, you'll have to look at the pricier Galaxy Watch 6 Classic.

Who It's For

The Galaxy Watch 6 is the best Apple Watch alternative for most Android users. It comes in small (40mm) or large (44mm) sizes, three different aluminum case colors (graphite, gold, or silver), and two connectivity options (with or without LTE), thus accommodating a wide range of buyers.Outdoor adventurers might prefer the still-available Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, which offers longer battery life, a more durable titanium case, an even stronger sapphire crystal glass display, and a few outdoor-specific navigation features.

Similar to how the Apple Watch works only with iPhones, the Galaxy Watch 6 series is exclusive to Android phones. Samsung's latest smartwatches require a device running Android 10 or higher with more than 1.5GB of RAM. Although you can pair the Watch 6 with non-Samsung Android phones, some features, including irregular heart rhythm notifications, phone separation alerts, and the Camera Controller app, work only with handsets of the same brand.

PROS

  • Bigger, brighter screen than previous model
  • Good app selection
  • Digital bezel for quick scrolling
  • Excellent sleep insights
  • Active skin temperature sensor
  • Reliable automatic workout detection
  • Two case sizes, optional LTE connectivity

CONS

  • One-day battery life
  • Minor workout heart rate accuracy issues

SPECS

NameValue
Phone OS CompatibilityAndroid
Watch OSWear OS
ProcessorSamsung Exynos W930 Dual-Core 1.4GHz
Display Size1.3 inches
Display TypeAMOLED
Fitness FeaturesAccelerometer, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Blood Oxygen Monitor, Temperature Sensor
Estimated Battery Life22 hours
Separate App Store
Phone Call Capacity

GET IT NOW

$247.00 Amazon $249.99 Best Buy

Learn More

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Review

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (19)

Apple Watch SE

Best Affordable Apple Watch

4.0 Excellent

Why We Picked It

The Watch SE is the least expensive and smallest smartwatch in Apple's lineup. The second-generation model isn't a massive update to the original, but Apple has lowered the price by $30, upgraded the processor, added a new motion sensor for Crash Detection, and changed to a more environmentally friendly back cover. You miss out on an always-on display and a few health sensors (ECG, SpO2, and temperature), but it otherwise offers almost all the other connectivity, safety, and fitness features of the Series 9 for $150 less.

Safety features include Emergency SOS, Fall Detection, and irregular heart rate and rhythm notifications. Cellular SE models also now support international emergency calling, so you can reach emergency services in more than 120 countries and regions without your phone while traveling. On the health front, we especially like the automatic 20-second handwashing timer.

Who It's For

The Apple Watch SE is a solid option for its target audience of first-time smartwatch buyers, children/teens, and older adults. It even supports Apple's Family Setup feature, which enables you to manage the watch for a family member who doesn't have an iPhone. The Apple Watch SE is an excellent budget-friendly pick, but the Series 9 retains our Editors' Choice award for its more robust health-tracking capabilities and always-on display option.That said, Apple has disabled blood oxygen saturation monitoring on Series 9 and Ultra 2 units currently being sold in the US, narrowing the gap between them and the Watch SE, which has always lacked that sensor.

PROS

  • Upgraded processor from previous model
  • New motion sensor with support for Crash Detection
  • Improved real-world battery life
  • Lightweight
  • Excellent app selection and safety features
  • Lower price than first-generation model

CONS

  • No always-on display
  • Lacks sensors for ECG, SpO2, or body temperature
  • No rating for dust resistance

SPECS

NameValue
Phone OS CompatibilityiOS
Watch OSwatchOS
ProcessorApple S8
Display Size1.5 inches/1.7 inches
Display TypeOLED
Fitness FeaturesGPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Accelerometer
Estimated Battery Life18 hours
Separate App Store
Phone Call Capacity

GET IT NOW

$189.00 Amazon

Learn More

Apple Watch SE Review

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (20)

Apple Watch Ultra 2

Best for Outdoor Adventurers

4.0 Excellent

Why We Picked It

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers a more rugged build and longer battery life than its siblings, plus exclusive outdoor adventuring features that can help you stay safe when you veer off the beaten path. The Ultra series represents the most significant design departure for the Apple Watch yet, with a bright orange customizable Action button, a more tactile Digital Crown you can operate with gloved hands, and a completely flat (vs. domed) front crystal for increased durability. It includes Apple's S9 SiC chip, which enables features like on-device Siri processing, precise directional device tracking (with an iPhone 15), and a double-tap gesture.

The Ultra comes with cellular connectivity by default and offers noticeably improved call quality thanks to a dual-speaker system and three-microphone array. Other upgrades include a brighter display, improved water resistance, a dual-frequency GPS for greater accuracy in cities and the woods, and a built-in 86dB emergency siren that is audible from up to 600 feet away.For underwater treks, the watch has an EN13319 certification and a depth gauge with a water temperature sensor.

Who It's For

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is best for endurance athletes, ocean enthusiasts, and anyone else who spends a lot of time in the great outdoors. With a WR100 water-resistance rating, the Ultra 2 is the only Apple Watch suitable for high-speed water sports and recreational diving. It works for recreational dives at depths of up to 40 meters and can function as a dive computer with the Oceanic+ app.It's pricey, though, and people with smaller wrists might not like its bulky design.

PROS

  • 3,000-nit display
  • Powerful processor
  • Expanded operating altitude
  • Carbon-neutral build option
  • Excellent connectivity features

CONS

  • Expensive
  • Some map limitations

SPECS

NameValue
Phone OS CompatibilityiOS
Watch OSwatchOS
ProcessorApple S9
Display Size1.9 inches
Display TypeOLED
Fitness FeaturesAccelerometer, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Blood Oxygen Monitor, Temperature Sensor
Estimated Battery Life36 hours
Separate App Store
Phone Call Capacity

GET IT NOW

$779.99 Amazon $799.00 Apple.com

Learn More

Apple Watch Ultra 2 Review

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (21)

Fitbit Versa 4

Best Fitbit Smartwatch

4.0 Excellent

Why We Picked It

Though it has limited access to apps, the Fitbit Versa 4 is an excellent fitness-focused smartwatch. We appreciate its attractive, comfortable design which offers a few improvements over the last generation, including a slimmer case, a physical button, and a more responsive touch screen. The latest model offers 40 exercise modes, up from 20 last generation.

Moreover, the Versa line continues to stand out for its affordability and long battery life. In testing, it lasted four days between charges with the always-on display enabled and the screen brightness set to max. In addition to its robust fitness and health capabilities, it has a small but useful selection of lifestyle features, including Amazon Alexa, Google Maps, and Google Pay. On the downside, the Versa 4 doesn't support third-party app downloads, with the exception of watch faces.

Who It's For

If you're looking for a smartwatch with support for cellular calling and third-party apps, this isn't it. Instead, the Versa 4 is a strong option for anyone in search of an attractive fitness-focused smartwatch that keeps things simple.If you want even more wellness-focused bells and whistles, including an ECG sensor for heart rhythm assessments and a cEDA sensor for a more robust stress management experience, the Fitbit Sense 2 is an excellent alternative.

For activation and setup, Fitbit devices require the Fitbit app, which is compatible with smartphones running at least Android 9 or iOS 15. Fitbit is in the process of migrating its app to Google's authentication platform. At this point, all new users will need a Google account to log into the Fitbit app. Legacy Fitbit users will soon need to migrate their account over to Google's platform to log in, a fairly painless process we detail in our Versa 4 review.

PROS

  • Attractive, comfortable design
  • Better touch-screen responsiveness than predecessor
  • Physical button improves usability
  • 40 exercise modes (up from 20)
  • Long battery life
  • Lots of watch faces
  • Tracks overnight skin temperature variation

CONS

  • No third-party app support
  • Some lifestyle apps from previous generation removed
  • Lacks ECG, stress sensors

SPECS

NameValue
Phone OS CompatibilityAndroid, iOS
Watch OSFitbit OS
ProcessorN/A
Display Size1.58 inches
Display TypeAMOLED
Fitness FeaturesAccelerometer, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Blood Oxygen Monitor
Estimated Battery Life6 days
Separate App Store
Phone Call Capacity

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$199.95 Amazon $174.90 Walmart

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Fitbit Versa 4 Review

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (22)

Google Pixel Watch 2

Best for Style-Minded Android Users

4.0 Excellent

Why We Picked It

The Pixel Watch 2 is noteworthy because it's Google's own smartwatch line and it runs on the Android-friendly Wear OS smartwatch operating system. Aesthetically, it's a breath of fresh air, with a domed face that looks like a drop of water on your wrist. It offers all the preinstalled lifestyle features you expect from a premium smartwatch, including calling/texting, mobile payments, and smart home controls. Offering full Fitbit integration, it's also well equipped for health and fitness tracking, with sensors to monitor your skin temperature and stress responses. And with the Play Store on your wrist, you can customize the watch with a wide range of third-party apps.

Who It's For

The Pixel Watch 2 works with most phones running Android 9.0 or newer via the Google Pixel Watch app, which requires a Google Account to log in. It is not compatible with iPhones.

There are no limitations when you use the Pixel Watch 2 with a non-Pixel Android phone. By comparison, some Galaxy Watch 6 features only work only with Samsung handsets. Ultimately, the Galaxy Watch 6 has a slight edge because of its lower price, better battery life, and more durable design, but the Pixel Watch 2 is an excellent, attractive alternative.

PROS

  • Improved battery life over previous version
  • More Fitbit health and fitness features
  • Responsive performance
  • IP68 rating
  • 100% recycled metal casing
  • Attractive and comfortable design

CONS

  • Pricey
  • Some health metrics require a premium membership
  • No preinstalled compass
  • Only comes in one size

SPECS

NameValue
Phone OS CompatibilityAndroid
Watch OSWear OS
ProcessorQualcomm 5100
Display Size1.2 inches
Display TypeAMOLED
Fitness FeaturesAccelerometer, GPS, Blood Oxygen Monitor, Heart Rate Monitor, Temperature Sensor, Pedometer
Estimated Battery Life33 hours
Separate App Store
Phone Call Capacity

GET IT NOW

$349.99 Amazon $349.99 Best Buy

Learn More

Google Pixel Watch 2 Review

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (23)

Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5

Best Pixel Watch 2 Alternative

4.0 Excellent

Why We Picked It

The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 stands out among its Wear OS peers because of its excellent 80-hour runtime per charge, a figure that rivals that of the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro. The watch's ultra-low-power screen certainly plays a part; it lets you scroll through data like compass bearings, your SpO2 level, and heart rate readings without activating the battery-draining AMOLED display. Additional highlights include an attractively classic (albeit slightly bulky) design and a speedy internal chip. There's no cellular option and Google Assistant support isn't available as of this writing, but it otherwise offers many lifestyle features, a wide selection of downloadable apps via the Google Play Store, and robust fitness- and health-tracking capabilities.

Who It's For

If you want a WearOS smartwatch with long battery life, the Android-only TicWatch Pro 5 is worth a look. It offers a similar feature set as the Google Pixel Watch 2 in a more durable build with about three times the battery life. For even longer runtimes, check out the Wear OS-powered OnePlus Watch 2, which powered through 102 hours in our tests before it needed charging.

PROS

  • Three-day battery life
  • Bright AMOLED display
  • Attractive design
  • Good app selection

CONS

  • No Google Assistant at launch
  • Only comes in one size
  • No cellular option
  • Some low heart rate readings in testing

SPECS

NameValue
Phone OS CompatibilityAndroid
Watch OSWear OS
ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1
Display Size1.43 inches
Display TypeAMOLED, Ultra-Low-Power
Fitness FeaturesAccelerometer, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Blood Oxygen Monitor, Temperature Sensor
Estimated Battery Life80 hours
Separate App Store
Phone Call Capacity

GET IT NOW

$349.99 Amazon

Learn More

Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 Review

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (24)

OnePlus Watch 2

Best Battery Life

4.0 Excellent

Why We Picked It

While the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 achieves its impressive battery life thanks to its ultra-low-power (ULP) display, the OnePlus Watch 2 gets even better results by employing two different operating systems to save power. It uses Wear OS 4 to run third-party apps and other battery-intensive tasks, and a proprietary real-time operating system (RTOS) for low-power operations like sending notifications or running background tasks. It lasted an impressive 103 hours in testing in its default smart mode, and 69 hours with its always-on AMOLED display enabled. It also has all of the apps and smarts you expect from a Wear OS watch, and it doubles as a capable fitness and sleep tracker.

Who It’s For

Like other Wear OS devices, you need an Android phone to use the OnePlus Watch 2. If you have a OnePlus phone, the watch will automatically sync weather and alarm apps, but it otherwise functions the same on any handset running Android 8.0 or later. The OnePlus Watch 2 only comes in one large 47mm size and doesn’t have an LTE option. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 offers more design and connectivity options, plus phone camera controls and additional health sensors, but the OnePlus Watch 2 is an excellent alternative if you prioritize battery life.

PROS

  • Up to four days of battery life
  • Stainless steel case
  • Responsive touch screen
  • Good app selection
  • Accurate sleep measurements
  • Excellent running insights

CONS

  • Comes in only one size
  • No cellular option
  • Lacks ECG, body temperature sensors, fall detection, period tracking
  • No phone camera controls

SPECS

NameValue
Phone OS CompatibilityAndroid
Watch OSWear OS
ProcessorSnapdragon W5 + BES2700
Display Size1.43 inches
Display TypeAMOLED
Fitness FeaturesAccelerometer, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Blood Oxygen Monitor, Pedometer, Gyroscope, Pulse Oximeter, Light Sensor, Barometer
Estimated Battery Life103 hours in smart mode
Separate App Store
Phone Call Capacity

GET IT NOW

$289.99 Amazon $299.99 OnePlus

Learn More

OnePlus Watch 2 Review

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (25)

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic

Best for a Rotating Bezel

4.0 Excellent

Why We Picked It

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is most notable for its rotating bezel, its main differentiator from the standard Galaxy Watch 6. More than just a design touch, it lets you quickly scroll through apps, menus, metrics, text, tiles, and more. It's easy to rotate in either direction with one finger or two, with stopping points that enable more precise scrolling than its sibling's touch bezel. The Classic's upgrades also include a shinier and more durable stainless steel case and a classier-looking hybrid eco-leather (synthetic) band.Like the standard model, the Watch 6 Classic runs Wear OS, which means you get access to Google Maps, the Play Store, and a wide selection of third-party apps.

Who It's For

The Samsung Watch 6 Classic is an excellent option for those in search of a lifestyle-focused Android-compatible smartwatch. Choose this over the standard Watch 6 if you want a bit of bling and the improved functionality of its rotating bezel.

The Watch 6 Classic is compatible with smartphones running Android 10 or higher with more than 1.5GB of RAM, so iPhone users are out of luck. It comes in 43mm and 47mm sizes in black or silver. Base models support Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, or you can add LTE connectivity for $50 more.

PROS

  • Rotating bezel
  • Stainless steel case
  • Attractive synthetic leather strap
  • Bigger, brighter screen than previous model
  • Excellent sleep insights
  • Active skin temperature sensor
  • Reliable automatic workout detection
  • Two case sizes, optional LTE connectivity

CONS

  • Heavier than standard model
  • Mediocre battery life
  • Minor workout heart rate accuracy issues

SPECS

NameValue
Phone OS CompatibilityAndroid
Watch OSAndroid Wear
ProcessorSamsung Exynos W930 Dual-Core 1.4GHz
Display Size1.3 inches
Display TypeAMOLED
Fitness FeaturesAccelerometer, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Blood Oxygen Monitor, Temperature Sensor
Estimated Battery Life22 hours
Separate App Store
Phone Call Capacity

GET IT NOW

$339.00 Amazon $339.99 Best Buy

Learn More

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic Review

Buying Guide: The Best Smartwatches for 2024

Pick a Watch That Works With Your Phone

Naturally, the first thing you should consider before you buy a smartwatch is compatibility. We include these details in our reviews of each product.

All Apple Watch models run watchOS, Apple's smartwatch operating system, and work only with iOS devices. Apple's latest wearables—the Series 9, the Ultra 2, and the Watch SE— require an iPhone XS or later with iOS 17 or later and do not work with Android handsets.

Galaxy Watch 6 smartwatches run Wear OS 4 with Samsung's One UI 5 Watch software. They require a smartphone running Android 10 or higher with more than 1.5GB of RAM. Note that although you can pair the Watch 6 with non-Samsung Android phones, some features work only with Samsung handsets, including irregular heart rhythm notifications, phone separation alerts, and the Camera Controller app.

Google's Pixel Watch 2 runs Wear OS 4 and works with most phones running Android 9.0 or newer via the Google Pixel Watch app, which requires a Google Account to log in. It's not exclusive to Pixel phones and should pair just fine with devices from any other Android phone maker, including Samsung.

Most of the other smartwatches on this list are compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones.

Which Platform Offers the Best Smartwatch Apps?

What separates a smartwatch from a dumb watch? Lots of things, but as smartphones have taught us, apps might be the most important.

Most of the watches we like feature full-fledged app stores that bring everything from Spotify, Yelp, and—yes, a calculator—to your wrist. Much like smartphones, app availability is a good way to determine which product to get, so make sure to check out the app selection for each watch before you make a final decision.

If you're looking for apps, Apple is your best bet. The App Store lets you browse and download third-party watchOS apps directly on the watch, including popular favorites like AllTrails, Calm, Pandora, Peloton, Shazam, Spotify, Starbucks, and Strava, just to name a few.

The Apple Watch still has the largest number of high-quality apps and big-name developers, but Google's Wear OS platform is catching up.

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (26)

Google Maps on the Pixel Watch 2 (Credit: Will Greenwald)

Samsung's latest smartwatches feature popular Google apps like Assistant, Maps, and the Play Store, alongside Samsung's Bixby, Buds Controller, Pay, and more. The Pixel Watch features all the Google standbys, including Assistant, Gmail, Home, Maps, the Play Store, and Wallet.

Other popular apps available for download via the Google Play Store on Wear OS smartwatches include Amazon Music, Calm, Deezer, Easy Voice Recorder, KakaoTalk, Samsung Internet Browser, SmartThings, Spotify, Stocard, Todoist, and WhatsApp.

How Are Smartwatches and Fitness Trackers Different?

Unless you want a gadget on both of your wrists (not the best look), you should pick a smartwatch that also works as a fitness tracker. Most smartwatches are capable of tracking basic activity, like steps, but you need to pay close attention to additional features.

Most of the smartwatches on our list feature GPS connectivity, which means they can record your runs without the help of a companion device. Most modern smartwatches also have an optical heart rate sensor that can take continuous and on-demand heart rate measurements.

Fitbit Versa devices are fairly affordable and track plenty of fitness and sleep metrics, but have less in the way of third-party apps, so there are some trade-offs. Look closely and choose a watch that tracks the activities and health metrics you want to monitor. Some smartwatches offer advanced health-tracking features, including the ability to take an ECG and measure your SpO2 level.

Which Smartwatches Have Cellular and Are They Worth the Money?

A cellular connection allows you to make calls, send texts, stream music, download apps, and do anything else that requires an internet connection—all without your phone. The cellular Apple Watch Series 9 carries a $100 premium over the base model (Bluetooth and Wi-Fi only), and then you also have to pay for a separate data plan—most carriers charge an additional $10 per month per smartwatch. The Galaxy Watch 6 series and the Google Pixel Watch 2 are also available with cellular connectivity.

Whether this convenience is worth it for you depends on how you plan to use your watch. If you want to stream music while you exercise and leave your phone at home or in the locker room, a cellular connection can certainly come in handy. If you always have your phone on you, however, you can probably save money and skip it.

How Long Do Smartwatches Last?

You don't want a smartwatch with good battery life, right? Good, because you're not going to get it. Features like an always-on display and GPS tracking are nice, but they drain battery life quickly. Watches with full-color, smartphone-like displays, like the Apple Watch and Wear OS watches, generally only last about a day on a charge.

There are a few exceptions, including the OnePlus Watch 2 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which offer multi-day battery life. In general, you get much better battery life with a Fitbit or Garmin watch. They typically last around six days on a single charge.

How Much Should You Spend on a Smartwatch?

Smartwatches can be very expensive, but that doesn't mean you need to spend a lot of money to get a good one. Yes, the $1,000+ Apple Watch Hermès is sure to draw a lot of attention, but for that price, you could buy five Fitbits.

If you're a first-time smartwatch buyer, consider the less-expensive route first in case you wind up not wearing it all that much. The Wyze Watch (which starts at $29.99) is an affordable option, but be sure to read our review so you're aware of its limitations.

The Best Smartwatches for 2024 (27)

The OnePlus Watch 2 (Credit: Andrew Gebhart)

What's the Best Android Watch?

As mentioned, all of the models on this list work with Android phones except for the Apple Watch.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 is our current favorite for its streamlined design, excellent health and safety features, and useful calling and texting capabilities. Outdoor adventurers might prefer the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, which offers a more durable titanium case, an even stronger sapphire crystal glass display, longer battery life, and a few outdoor-specific navigation features.

What's the Best-Looking Smartwatch?

Let's not forget: You're also going to wear this thing. And unlike your Timex, it's probably not going to remain in style for years. Smartwatch design is rapidly changing, so hold out until you find something you actually want to wear. And keep in mind that smartwatches are still gadgets. The coming year is sure to bring new iterations of pretty much every watch on this list, not to mention completely new ones.

The battle for wrist real estate is quickly heating up. That's good news for consumers because this pace of innovation is likely to result in more capable—and more stylish—devices. I wouldn't be surprised if this list reads completely differently the next time you see it. But if you're looking for the best smartwatch available today, the options here are the finest we've tested.

For more, check out our roundups of the best Android watches and the best Samsung watches.

Compare SpecsThe Best Smartwatches for 2024

Our Picks

Apple Watch Series 9See It$329.00 at Amazon Garmin Venu Sq 2Check Stock$229.99 at Amazon Samsung Galaxy Watch 6See It$247.00 at Amazon Apple Watch SESee It$189.00 at Amazon Apple Watch Ultra 2See It$779.99 at Amazon Fitbit Versa 4See It$199.95 at Amazon Google Pixel Watch 2See It$349.99 at Amazon Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5See It$349.99 at Amazon OnePlus Watch 2Check Stock$289.99 at Amazon Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 ClassicSee It$339.00 at Amazon

Editors'Rating

Editors' Choice

4.5Editor Review

Editors' Choice

4.0Editor Review

4.0Editor Review

4.0Editor Review

4.0Editor Review

4.0Editor Review

4.0Editor Review

4.0Editor Review

4.0Editor Review

4.0Editor Review

Phone OS Compatibility

iOSAndroid, iOSAndroidiOSiOSAndroid, iOSAndroidAndroidAndroidAndroid

Watch OS

watchOSProprietaryWear OSwatchOSwatchOSFitbit OSWear OSWear OSWear OSAndroid Wear

Processor

Apple S9N/ASamsung Exynos W930 Dual-Core 1.4GHzApple S8Apple S9N/AQualcomm 5100Qualcomm Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1Snapdragon W5 + BES2700Samsung Exynos W930 Dual-Core 1.4GHz

Display Size

1.6 inches/1.8 inches1.41 inches1.3 inches1.5 inches/1.7 inches1.9 inches1.58 inches1.2 inches1.43 inches1.43 inches1.3 inches

Display Type

OLEDAMOLEDAMOLEDOLEDOLEDAMOLEDAMOLEDAMOLED, Ultra-Low-PowerAMOLEDAMOLED

Fitness Features

Accelerometer, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Blood Oxygen Monitor, Temperature SensorAccelerometer, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Blood Oxygen Monitor, Temperature SensorAccelerometer, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Blood Oxygen Monitor, Temperature SensorGPS, Heart Rate Monitor, AccelerometerAccelerometer, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Blood Oxygen Monitor, Temperature SensorAccelerometer, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Blood Oxygen MonitorAccelerometer, GPS, Blood Oxygen Monitor, Heart Rate Monitor, Temperature Sensor, PedometerAccelerometer, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Blood Oxygen Monitor, Temperature SensorAccelerometer, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Blood Oxygen Monitor, Pedometer, Gyroscope, Pulse Oximeter, Light Sensor, BarometerAccelerometer, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Blood Oxygen Monitor, Temperature Sensor

Estimated Battery Life

18 hours9 days22 hours18 hours36 hours6 days33 hours80 hours103 hours in smart mode22 hours

Separate App Store

Phone Call Capacity

Where to Buy

$329.00 at Amazon $399.00 at Apple.com $229.99 at Amazon $247.00 at Amazon $249.99 at Best Buy $189.00 at Amazon $779.99 at Amazon $799.00 at Apple.com $199.95 at Amazon $174.90 at Walmart $349.99 at Amazon $349.99 at Best Buy $349.99 at Amazon $289.99 at Amazon $299.99 at OnePlus $339.00 at Amazon $339.99 at Best Buy

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Further Reading

The Best Smartwatch and Fitness Tracker Deals for April 2024

ByCierra Cowan

The Best Apple Watch for 2024

ByWill Greenwald

The Best Android Watch for 2024

ByAngela Moscaritolo&Will Greenwald

The Best Samsung Watch for 2024

ByAngela Moscaritolo&Will Greenwald

Switch Up Your Smartwatch: How to Change and Tweak Apple Watch Faces

ByLance Whitney

Start Your Wellness Journey: 15 Ways to Get Healthy With Your Apple Watch

ByLance Whitney

The Best Smart Glasses for 2024

ByWill Greenwald

Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses Get a Shiny New AI Beta

ByJosh Hendrickson

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I’m PCMag’s executive editor of reviews, steering our coverage to make sure we're testing the products you're interested in buying and telling you whether they're worth it. I've been here for more than 10 years. I previously managed the consumer electronics reviews team, and before that I covered mobile, smart home, and wearable technology for PCMag and Gigaom.

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I'm PCMag's managing editor for consumer electronics, overseeing an experienced team of analysts covering smart home, home entertainment, wearables, fitness and health tech, and various other product categories. I have been with PCMag for more than 10 years, and in that time have written more than 6,000 articles and reviews for the site. I previously served as an analyst focused on smart home and wearable devices, and before that I was a reporter covering consumer tech news. I'm also a yoga instructor, and have been actively teaching group and private classes for nearly a decade.

Prior to joining PCMag, I was a reporter for SC Magazine, focusing on hackers and computer security. I earned a BS in journalism from West Virginia University, and started my career writing for newspapers in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

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