The best smartwatch 2023: top wearables you should buy today
A selection of the best smartwatches for your wrist
The top-notch smartwatches can effortlessly aid in tracking your activities and monitoring your health. Although not to be treated as medical instruments, these wearables serve as excellent tools that facilitate the overall wellness observance, and have emerged as indispensable everyday devices for many.
A smartwatch is a hybrid of a wristwatch and a smartphone companion that can serve as a helpful motivator for individuals striving to sustain healthier habits. In addition to providing encouragement during intense physical activities such as workouts and runs, it also offers an array of non-exercise-related features, such as call acceptance, music playback, and even contactless payment options, all without the need to retrieve your phone.
If you’re someone who enjoys an active lifestyle, has health concerns, or simply desires a fashionable timepiece with added features, investing in a smartwatch could be a wise decision. Even if you’re on a budget, there are inexpensive options available that may suit your needs, especially if you don’t require advanced features.
We have extensively tested and evaluated a wide range of smartwatches, including popular options such as the latest Apple Watch and Samsung smartwatches, as well as those offered by Fitbit and other brands featuring Wear OS, such as Fossil and Mobvoi. As a result, we have curated a collection of the top-performing smartwatches, taking into consideration their varying features, sizes, shapes, and compatibility with smartphones.
Our list of the best smartwatches is guaranteed to have something suitable for everyone. Take a look at our selection below. However, if you only require the basics, you may prefer one of the best fitness trackers available.
The best smartwatch 2023
1. Samsung Galaxy Watch 5
The best Android smartwatch overall
SPECIFICATIONS
- OS: Wear OS
- Compatibility: Android
- Display: 1.4-inch 450 x 450 Super AMOLED
- Processor: Dual-core 1.18GHz Cortex-A55
- Onboard storage: 16GB
- Battery duration: One day
- Charging method: Qi wireless charging
- IP rating: IP68
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS
REASONS TO BUY
- Powerful fitness features
- Durable and lightweight
REASONS TO AVOID
- One-day battery life
- Optimized for Samsung phones
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is not only visually appealing but also highly functional. With its sleek design, it adds an elegant touch to your wrist and comes packed with impressive features. The Super AMOLED display boasts excellent clarity and sharpness, making it capable of displaying vivid visuals even in bright outdoor environments.
In terms of performance, it operates quickly, but its optimal performance is achieved when used in conjunction with a Samsung smartphone. Regrettably, it lacks compatibility with iPhones.
In addition to its integration with SmartThings, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 stands out for its capability to track your body composition, making it an impressive fitness tool. Furthermore, the watch offers comprehensive sleep tracking features to help you optimize your daily performance. However, the watch’s one-day battery life is a downside to consider.
2. Apple Watch SE 2
The budget but very effective Apple Watch
SPECIFICATIONS
- OS: watchOS 9
- Compatibility: iOS
- Display: 1.78″ OLED
- Processor: Apple S8
- Onboard storage: 32GB
- Battery: 18 hours
- Charging method: Wireless
- IP rating: Water-resistant to 50m
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, LTE
REASONS TO BUY
- Light and comfortable
- Good battery life for price
REASONS TO AVOID
- No always-on screen
- No ECG built in
The Apple Watch SE 2 could be considered the top pick for many individuals, given its lower price point compared to the Apple Watch 8. Despite being more affordable, it includes many of the essential features of the latter, including the same chipset.
Although it doesn’t have an always-on display, ECG, or blood oxygen tracking, the Apple Watch SE 2 still offers numerous health and fitness features, along with potentially life-saving features such as Car Crash Detection.
The device is not only robust but also boasts remarkable battery life for a fully functional smartwatch. Additionally, it is lightweight and provides exceptional comfort when worn. Thus, it achieves an excellent equilibrium between cost and capability, making it an ideal and reasonably priced choice.
3. Apple Watch Ultra
The ultimate Apple Watch
SPECIFICATIONS
- OS: watchOS 9
- Compatibility: iOS
- Display: 1.9″ OLED
- Processor: Apple S8
- Onboard storage: 32GB
- Battery: 36 hours
- Charging method: Wireless
- IP rating: Water-resistant to 100m
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, LTE
REASONS TO BUY
- Large display
- Action button is very useful
REASONS TO AVOID
- Battery life could be better
- Lack of navigation features
The Apple Watch Ultra is undeniably the pinnacle of Apple Watches, but it comes at a steep price. This watch boasts a larger and more robust design, complete with a customizable action button that provides genuinely practical functions. Not only is it built to endure any terrain, but the Apple Watch Ultra can also give Garmin watches a run for their money.
Despite exceeding the performance of the regular Apple Watch, the device has the potential to further improve its battery life. Nonetheless, it boasts a robust and precise GPS, making it an excellent tool for exploration, and it also includes a diving sensor for enthusiastic underwater adventurers. Furthermore, users can enjoy all the benefits that other Apple Watches offer, enabling them to monitor their health and wellness consistently.
Although it comes with a high price tag, its power cannot be denied. We conducted tests and discovered that this is the most capable wearable the brand has ever produced.
4. Apple Watch 8
One of the best around
- OS: watchOS 9
- Compatibility: iOS
- Display: 1.69 / 1.9″ OLED
- Processor: Apple S8
- Onboard storage: 32GB
- Battery: 18 hours
- Charging method: Wireless
- IP rating: Water-resistant to 50m
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, LTE
REASONS TO BUY
- Large display
- Action button is very useful
REASONS TO AVOID
- Battery life could be better
- Lack of navigation features
The Apple Watch stands out as the superior range of smartwatches, and among them, the Apple Watch 8 is an excellent option. It provides all the latest watchOS features from Apple, without requiring you to spend money on unnecessary adventure kits. Although its battery life is still average, and its appearance remains unchanged, there’s a compelling reason why Apple’s iconic squircle design and vast display are so highly sought after.
Our findings reveal that the new processor provides a slight increase in speed, and a newly added car crash detection tool has the potential to be a life-saver, although hopefully it will never be needed. Additionally, users can enjoy the benefits of watchOS 9, which includes enhanced fitness statistics and improved interval training features. Overall, if you’re looking for a well-rounded Apple Watch experience, the Apple Watch 8 is a great choice.
5. Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro
An excellent but expensive Samsung smartwatch
SPECIFICATIONS
- OS: Wear OS
- Compatibility: Android
- Display: 1.2″ 396 x 396 / 1.4″ 450 x 450 Super AMOLED
- Processor: Dual-core 1.18GHz
- Onboard storage: 16GB
- Battery: 3 days on 44mm / less on 40mm
- Charging method: Wireless
- IP rating: IP68
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LTE (for extra)
REASONS TO BUY
- Large display
- Action button is very useful
REASONS TO AVOID
- Battery life could be better
- Lack of navigation features
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro is a review that focuses on helping outdoor enthusiasts, and it exudes confidence with its bold and prominent features. The device boasts a smooth AMOLED screen that’s not only easy to navigate but also twice as durable as its predecessor, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4. The Pro model includes all the upgraded health features, along with a GPS function that provides turn-by-turn navigation, enabling users to plan their route carefully during workouts.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro combines the strength of a Garmin watch with the style of a Wear OS device, providing you with the best of both worlds. Its impressive 80-hour battery life surpasses that of numerous other smartwatches, including many with Wear OS.
6. Google Pixel Watch
The best Wear OS watch for style
SPECIFICATIONS
- OS: Wear OS 3.5
- Compatibility: Android 8.0 or higher
- Display: 1.2″ OLED
- Processor: Exynos 9110 (10nm)
- Onboard storage: 32GB
- Battery: 24 hours
- Charging method: Wireless
- IP rating: Water-resistant to 5 ATM
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, LTE
REASONS TO BUY
- Elegant, classic watch-like looks
- Brilliant screen
- Fitbit integration
REASONS TO AVOID
- One (small) size fits all
- Band switch system takes practice
- No blood oxygen sensing – yet
The Google Pixel Watch stands out for its strikingly beautiful design as a smartwatch. Its appearance is more organic than synthetic, featuring a shiny surface that gracefully conforms to a softly contoured frame. The construction is nearly seamless, lending to its overall polished aesthetic.
The curve in question results in a larger expanse of glass facing the user compared to the Apple Watch 8. This contributes to the device’s aesthetic appeal and, in our opinion, helps to obscure a somewhat noticeable black bezel surrounding the screen.
The AMOLED display on this device is vibrant, vivid, and highly responsive, although it is noticeably smaller than the rectangular face of the Apple Watch 8. However, Google has made the most of the limited screen space, and we never felt like we needed a larger display.
7. TicWatch E3
The best cheap Android smartwatch powered by Wear OS
SPECIFICATIONS
- OS: Wear OS
- Compatibility: Android
- Display: 1.3-inch 360 x 360 LCD
- Processor: Snapdragon Wear 4100
- Onboard storage: 8GB
- Battery: Two days
- Charging method: Qi wireless charging
- IP rating: IP68
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS
REASONS TO BUY
- Large display
- Fast performance
REASONS TO AVOID
- Looks simple
- Casing feels cheap
Despite being a budget smartwatch, the TicWatch E3 offers an impressive array of features that belies its affordable price. These include a generously-sized display, zippy performance, and a battery that can last up to two days on a single charge. Moreover, it boasts a wide range of health and fitness features that allow users to monitor their exercise, stress levels, sleep patterns, and much more.
While the TicWatch E3’s screen is LCD instead of OLED and it may seem a bit inexpensive in terms of appearance, it’s important to note that it is priced affordably. Moreover, during our testing, we found that it was both lightweight and sturdy.
If you’re looking for a smartwatch that combines fashion and functionality, the TicWatch E3 may not be the best choice. However, if your main focus is on core features, excellent battery life, and affordability, then the TicWatch E3 is an excellent option that even outperforms some more expensive competitors.
7. Fitbit Versa 3
The best Fitbit
SPECIFICATIONS
- OS: Fitbit OS
- Compatibility: Android, iOS
- Display: 1.58″ AMOLED
- Processor: N/A
- Onboard storage: 32GB
- Battery: Up to 6 days
- Charging method: Magnetic connecting pin
- IP rating: Water resistant
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.1, NFC
REASONS TO BUY
- Built-in GPS
- Lightweight and comfortable
REASONS TO AVOID
- Poor side button
- No offline Spotify
For individuals seeking to prioritize fitness features, the Fitbit Versa 3 stands out as an excellent wrist companion. Despite being owned by Google, the Google Pixel Watch does not measure up to the superior automated fitness tracking capabilities of the best Fitbit wearable.
The device features a built-in GPS and is comfortable to wear. Additionally, its display provides clear images that are easy to view. As with previous Fitbit smartwatches, its primary focus is on fitness, so it may not appeal to everyone.
In our review, we noted that while the Fitbit Versa 3 is a great wearable device, it leans more towards being a fitness tracker than a smartwatch and has a limited selection of productivity apps available.
The Fitbit Versa 3 can be a great choice for those who are interested in wearable technology, as it offers good features and comes at a relatively lower price compared to other options on this list.
9. Fitbit Sense
An excellent Android smartwatch with mental health tools
SPECIFICATIONS
- OS: Fitbit OS
- Compatibility: Android, iOS
- Display: 300 x 300 LCD
- Processor: N/A
- Onboard storage: N/A
- Battery: Up to 6 days
- Charging method: Magnetic connecting pin
- IP rating: Water resistance to 50m
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
REASONS TO BUY
- Detailed stress logging
- On-board GPS
REASONS TO AVOID
- Many tools require Fitbit Premium
- Step counting slightly inaccurate
The Fitbit Sense and the Versa listed higher on this list have quite similar designs and are both easy to use as Fitbit devices, the former stands out with its advanced health features that extend beyond the physical capabilities of an Android smartwatch.
The Fitbit Sense displays a thoughtful consideration for mental health by monitoring mood and stress levels and offering mindfulness and meditation instruction. However, the watch’s primary drawback is that many of its advanced features require a subscription to Fitbit Premium. This sets it apart from other watches on the list, which typically do not require ongoing payments after purchase.
In terms of performance, we were impressed with the Sense based on our testing results. Even after subjecting it to a rigorous spin session, we did not observe any unforeseen fluctuations in heart rate that could suggest problems with fitness trackers. Additionally, the device vibrates to signal transitions between heart rate zones, making it highly beneficial for training purposes.
10. TicWatch Pro 3
The best Wear OS 2.0 Android smartwatch
SPECIFICATIONS
- Compatibility: Android, iOS
- Display: 1.4″ 454 x 454 OLED paired with LCD screen
- Processor: Snapdragon Wear 4100
- Onboard storage: 8GB
- Battery: Up to 72h, 45 extra days in Essential mode
- Charging method: Magnetic connecting pin
- IP rating: IP68
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.1, NFC
REASONS TO BUY
- Big battery lasts 3 days
- Fast chipset
REASONS TO AVOID
- Sometimes poor interface
- Sleep tracking isn’t the best
The TicWatch Pro 3 can be considered a versatile device that doesn’t particularly stand out in any particular category. However, its affordability in comparison to high-end competitors makes up for any lack of specialization.
This smartwatch has many advantages. Firstly, it was the pioneer in incorporating the high-end Snapdragon 4100 chipset, resulting in excellent performance in our evaluations. Moreover, it can last for two to three days on a single charge, or even up to 45 days if you activate the Essential mode.
The TicWatch Pro 3 boasts a high-quality 1.4-inch 454 x 454 screen that is sharp, vibrant, and quick to respond. Additionally, the smartwatch is equipped with all of the expected health and fitness features. However, it’s worth noting that its sleep tracking function may not be very accurate, so it’s not recommended to purchase this watch specifically for that purpose.
How to choose the best smartwatch
Regrettably, the smartwatch you can choose is typically influenced by your choice of smartphone since not all wearables are compatible with devices from other brands. For instance, the Apple Watch is only compatible with iPhones made by Apple, while Samsung and Google watches, along with other Wear OS devices, are only compatible with Android devices. Nevertheless, it is possible to use a Samsung watch with a Google phone and vice versa.
Fitbit’s fitness tracking wearables are designed to synchronize with the Fitbit app and are compatible with any device. However, these devices primarily emphasize fitness features and may not provide the full range of comprehensive applications and services that you would typically find on other smartwatches.
If you’re switching from a Garmin watch that lasts for weeks, you may find it disappointing that most wearables only have a battery life of around a day. However, on this list, you can discover a few watches that offer longer battery life.
Ultimately, smartwatches can come with a hefty price tag, yet may not provide enough worth for the cost. It’s worth considering whether it’s truly necessary to purchase an Apple Watch Ultra, especially if you don’t plan on going scuba diving anytime soon and only want to discreetly check your text messages during mealtime.
How we test smartwatches
All of the smartwatches featured in this list have undergone a thorough and comprehensive review by TechRadar’s expert team, allowing us to gain a deep understanding of their capabilities and functionalities.
As part of our review process, we use each device as if it were our own personal wearable, subjecting them to real-world testing. This involves conducting a comprehensive analysis of their features, as well as using them over an extended period to assess their battery life performance.
Based on our findings, we have ranked the smartwatches while taking into consideration their price, performance, value, and core specifications.
What should I look for when buying a smartwatch?
To begin with, you should verify if your phone is compatible with the watch you’re interested in. It’s important to note that an Apple Watch won’t work with an Android phone, and a Google Pixel Watch won’t work with an iPhone. After that, take into account the battery life and features. How frequently are you willing to charge it, and what features do you actually require from your watch? Sometimes, a simpler watch may be a more sensible option.