Smartwatches have become the de-facto way to measure activity from your wrist and can encourage you to get moving. It's increasingly common for them to offer health features like a blood oxygen sensor. Some may even have an ECG (also known as an electrocardiogram) which can check for signs of a heart condition called atrial fibrillation.
Smartwatches reflect your personal style and come in a variety of finishes, from aluminum to titanium, with a seemingly endless variety of watch bands to choose from. There's also a watch size and design to suit every wrist, so you'll want to ask yourself if you prefer a round screen for that classic wristwatch look or a square display like the Apple Watch. It's best to try in-store before you buy.
Most smartwatches only work with one platform. The Apple Watch will only work with an iPhone, and the Samsung Galaxy Watch and Pixel Watch only pair with Android phones, for example. Garmin and Fitbit are the two major brands that currently offer smartwatches that work with both Android and iPhone.
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If you're an iPhone owner in search of a smartwatch, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better match than Apple's own. The Apple Watch is both a smart companion and a reliable fitness partner with its smooth UI, seamless compatibility with Apple's entire suite of products and powerful health tools that are constantly getting updated and improved.
But picking the right one is not as straight-forward as it sounds. In 2026, Apple sells more than one watch: the flagship , the rugged Ultra 3 and the budget-friendly SE 3. With WatchOS 26 bringing new health features like hypertension notifications and sleep scores to older models, those may also be worth a look if you can find a good deal.
Whether you’re buying your first Apple Watch or upgrading from an older model, here are the best options available now for every need and every budget
What is the best Apple Watch?
The Apple Watch Series 11 is the best Apple Watch for most people. It’s the Goldilocks of the lineup, landing right in the middle of the pack in terms of features, design, battery life and price.
With its sleek build and edge-to-edge screen, it’s the most polished and comfortable to wear, while still giving you plenty of viewing space across two sizes.
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