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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Not all Apple Watches are created equal, and picking the right one can make a big difference. The Apple Watch is still the best companion by far, but with differences in price, features, and styles, it’s worth taking a closer look before you buy. Whether you’re shopping for your first Apple Watch or upgrading from an older model, we’ve highlighted the best picks to help you find the right fit. With WatchOS 26 bringing a fresh look and even more features, the Apple Watch has never been more appealing.
If you’re an iPhone owner in search of a smartwatch that works seamlessly within Apple’s ecosystem, the Apple Watch is your best bet. It offers the most robust set of features to help you stay connected, along with advanced health and fitness tracking for logging your workouts and keeping tabs on your vitals.
But choosing one isn't as simple as grabbing the newest model. Apple’s lineup now spans multiple options, each designed with different needs, budgets, and styles. To help you find the right fit for you (and your family) we’ve rounded up the best Apple Watch models based on performance, features, and overall value.
What is the best Apple Watch?
The Apple Watch Series 10 takes everything great about its predecessors and elevates it. Compared to the Series 9, it offers a larger, brighter screen without adding bulk (it's actually lighter), more power under the hood and faster charging than any other Apple Watch, including the Ultra 2.
While its features may not drastically differ from the Series 9, its next-gen processor ensures it will likely outlast its predecessor in terms of software updates. It also includes a few more subtle upgrades, like voice isolation for calls, music playback and a depth gauge with a water temperature sensor for aquatic activities.
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