Top Smartwatches Exposed: Insider Secrets to Finding the Perfect Timepiece for 2024

The world of smartwatches has exploded in recent years, offering a dizzying array of features and designs to suit every taste and preference. But with so many options available, it can be tough to know where to start when searching for the perfect smartwatch. That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to the best smartwatches on the market, covering everything from stylish smartwatches to factors to consider before making a purchase.

When it comes to stylish smartwatches, Fossil is still the go-to brand for those looking for a fashionable hybrid smartwatch. Their devices take cues from analog timepieces, offering a classic look with limited functionality like activity tracking and heart rate monitoring. But if you're looking for something a bit more high-end, consider luxury smartwatches from brands like TAG Heuer and Hublot. Just keep in mind that you'll be paying top dollar for a brand name and exotic build materials.

Compatibility is another key consideration when it comes to smartwatches. Apple Watches, for example, only work with iPhones, while Wear OS devices are compatible with both iOS and Android phones. Samsung, Garmin, Fitbit, and other manufacturers also offer compatibility with both Android and iOS, but you'll need to install a companion app on your smartphone. And while many smartwatches offer a wide range of third-party apps, not all of them are particularly useful.

Price is also a major factor to consider when shopping for a smartwatch. The best smartwatches generally cost between $300 and $400, offering advanced operating systems, communications, music, and fitness features. Budget smartwatches, on the other hand, cost between $100 and $250 and tend to have fewer features and lower-quality displays. But if you're a serious athlete, you may want to consider a specialized fitness watch, which can easily run north of $500.

Battery life is another major complaint about smartwatches, but there's hope on the horizon. Many devices now offer up to two full days of battery life, and some can even last up to five days on a charge if you're willing to shut off most features. And if long battery life is a priority for you, consider a fitness watch, which can last weeks on a single charge.

Communication is another key feature to look for in a smartwatch. Call and text alerts are self-explanatory, but if these mean a lot to you, consider a watch with LTE. This will allow the smartwatch to take and receive phone calls, and do the same with text messages, without your device nearby. And while app alerts may not seem like a major feature, getting them delivered to your wrist can be incredibly useful.

Fitness tracking is another big reason why people turn to smartwatches. An all-purpose timepiece should function as a fitness tracker, logging your steps, calories, and workouts, and most of today's wearables have a heart rate monitor as well. And if you're a serious athlete, consider a watch with onboard GPS, which is useful for tracking distance for runs and bike rides. Swimmers will want something water-resistant, and thankfully, most all-purpose devices can now withstand at least a dunk in the pool.

Health tracking on smartwatches has also seen advances in recent years. Both Apple and Fitbit devices can estimate blood oxygen levels and measure ECGs, but these advanced health tracking features tend to come with a higher price tag. And if you're looking for a watch that can play music, many smartwatches let you save your music locally, so you can connect wireless earbuds via Bluetooth and listen to tunes without bringing your phone.

Displays are also an important consideration when shopping for a smartwatch. Many wearables have touchscreens, and we recommend getting one that has a full-color touchscreen. Some flagships like the Apple Watch have LTPO displays, which have faster response times and are more power-efficient, resulting in a smoother experience when interacting with the touchscreen.

Finally, NFC is another feature to look for in a smartwatch. Many new smartwatches have NFC, letting you pay for things without your wallet using contactless payments. After saving your credit or debit card information, you can hold your smartwatch up to an NFC reader to pay for a cup of coffee on your way home from a run.