Wearable technology, such as smartwatches, is no longer a novel innovation on the market. They’ve been around a long time and come in various designs, sizes, and colors. Additionally, there is a wide variety of high-quality smartwatch manufacturers. As a result, you may wonder, “How can I determine which smartwatch is best for me?”
It might be difficult to know what to look for when purchasing a smartwatch, but this guide will help you make the right choice.
Here, we’ll break down the different types of smartwatches and highlight the important features that they all have. Also, we’ll discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each kind of smartwatch so that you can make an informed decision.
So, without further ado, let’s get started.
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17 Different Types of Smartwatches
The list below includes 17 different types of smartwatches designed for specific purposes. These are:
1. General-Use Smartwatches
The general-use smartwatch is the most widely used type of smartwatch. These can be used for various purposes, from checking your phone’s notifications while driving to listening to music while exercising.
General-use smartwatches from well-known manufacturers like Samsung and Apple are widely available for everyday use. Many devices will include GPS, call-making/receiving capabilities, and media controls.
There are a variety of operating systems (WearOS or Tizen) available for wearable devices that can handle a wide range of tasks. The disadvantage is that they are typically power-consuming, which means you’ll need to recharge them daily.
Example Model: Apple Watch Series 5 and Samsung Galaxy Watch Active3.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Elegant designsPerfect for a wide range of occasions
Smart notifications
GPS integration
Music controls[/i2pros][i2cons]Consumes high power of energy[/i2cons][/i2pc]
2. Classic Smartwatches
The most stylish watch on this list is a classic smartwatch. These smartwatches have got a clean and modern look. Stainless steel, gold, and rose gold are just available options for men and women, respectively.
Smartwatches of this type are typically less than $200 in price. They have a timeless style that can be worn at any event and is suitable for both men and women.
Also, sports functions like step counters and pulse monitors are commonly installed in the devices. On top of that, the displays are typically larger and better. It, however, comes at the cost of battery life. The smartwatch must be recharged every one to two days, depending on usage.
In addition, Bluetooth technology allows you to connect your smartwatch to your phone. As a result, you won’t have to worry about losing contact with your smartwatch.
Example Model: Fossil Gen 5.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Classic lookExcellent performance
Fitness features
Budget-friendly[/i2pros][i2cons]It needs to be frequently charged
It is not waterproof[/i2cons][/i2pc]
3. Fitness Focused Smartwatches
People who want to keep tabs on their fitness routines and health will appreciate the availability of smartwatches that are specifically targeted at this market. A smartwatch can tell you a lot of things, including how many steps you’ve taken and how far you’ve gone.
The fitness smartwatches use lighter materials for their casing, such as aluminum or plastic. Further, the manufacturers use a silicone strap that fits snugly around the wrist for the user’s convenience.
While discussing features, some fitness smartwatches can also function as standalone watches that allow you to make or receive calls without connecting to a mobile device.
In addition, fitness-oriented smartwatches frequently feature onboard music storage and Bluetooth capabilities. Fitness trainers who don’t want to carry their smartphones while running will find this convenient.
To keep track of your travels, they’ll have GPS and an accelerometer, and you should be able to use them with popular fitness apps like Strava or Google Fit.
Example Model: Garmin Forerunner 245 and Fitbit Charge 4.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Slim designsEasy to use
Equipped with premium fitness features
Built-in GPS
Step counter[/i2pros][i2cons]They can be pricey
Privacy issues[/i2cons][/i2pc]
4. Companion Smartwatches
Smartwatches that connect to smartphones allow you to receive notifications, messages, and phone calls on your wrist.
Aside from fitness tracking and voice-controlled music playback on your iPhone, users can also use these devices to make NFC payments for items such as Apple Pay.
The new companion smartwatch is a must-have accessory, stylish, and packed with useful features. For the user’s convenience, the cutting-edge design incorporates a touch-screen interface. It is undoubtedly the most up-to-date type in a long line of wearable technology!
Example Model: Samsung Galaxy Watch and Fitbit Versa.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Equipped with great fitness featuresSleep tracking
Monitors heart rate
Provides fitness coaching[/i2pros][i2cons]Bit pricey
Difficult to read in direct sunlight
Average battery life[/i2cons][/i2pc]
5. Rugged Smartwatches
As the name implies, rugged smartwatches are built to withstand the most extreme weather conditions. Because of their durable and high-quality body, they can withstand dust, water drops, sand, dirt, and even some degree of drop shock.
These smartwatches also include features like fitness trackers so that you can keep track of your workouts while cycling, swimming, and so forth. Sports metrics like your heart rate, the number of calories you’ve burned, and more are all displayed on the device’s screen.
Example Model: Casio G-shock Mudman Compass and Suunto Core.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Solid constructionBuilt-in GPS
Withstand extreme weather conditions
Dust-resistant
Water-resistant[/i2pros][i2cons]Very Expensive
Limited designs[/i2cons][/i2pc]
6. GPS Smartwatches
Hikers, mountain climbers, and other outdoor enthusiasts have long used GPS watches, which have evolved into GPS smartwatches. Compared to different smartwatches, GPS models tend to be more expensive than the rest.
When tracking your workouts, both GPS smartwatches and fitness-focused smartwatches are similar. A GPS watch’s accuracy and real-time feedback are what set it apart from other GPS devices. If you’re running or cycling, they’ll keep track of your location and send you precise routes. You can also see your pace in real-time.
However, when it comes to tracking your activity, a fitness-oriented smartwatch relies more on the watch’s compass and accelerometer. It is a great watch for those who are just starting in the fitness world, but it isn’t reliable enough for professional athletes.
Thus, wearing a GPS watch is the most accurate method of keeping track of time.
Using these watches, the user can see their current location, the distance they’ve traveled, and even the direction they’re looking in – even without an internet connection!
Example Model: Apple Watch Series 6.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Monitor physical activityMeasure the speed and distance
Perfect for tracking location[/i2pros][i2cons]Some watches have the low battery life[/i2cons][/i2pc]
7. Standalone Smartwatches
Smartwatches that work independently of a smartphone are called standalone smartwatches. To make or receive calls, text people, listen to music and use various apps, you can use any cellular network or LTE. It eliminates the need to lug around a heavy smartphone.
Standalone smartwatches with powerful capabilities are available from various companies, including Apple and Samsung. Additionally, they include features like heart rate monitoring and GPS navigation so that users can get the most out of their fitness trackers.
On the other hand, these watches are not meant to replace smartphones. The displays are too small, and the operation is complex and difficult. Also, the battery is so small; it can’t power the device for more than a day.
Example Model: Samsung Gear S and Apple Watch Series 4.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Comes with advanced featuresHeart rate monitoring
Built-in GPS
They are water-resistant[/i2pros][i2cons]Relatively Expensive
Average battery life[/i2cons][/i2pc]
8. Budget Smartwatches
If you don’t want to spend a lot of money on a smartwatch, a budget smartwatch might be a good option.
In general, a low-cost smartwatch will show your notifications, track your daily fitness goals such as steps taken or calories burned, and control media.
They’re super affordable, with budget models starting at less than $50. Because they can’t download apps, you’ll only be able to use the features that come preloaded.
As a bonus, due to their limited functionality, they have excellent battery life, often lasting weeks on a single charge.
Example Model: Yamay Smartwatch
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Equipped with fitness tracking capabilitiesGreat compatibility
Affordable
Long battery life[/i2pros][i2cons]Limited features[/i2cons][/i2pc]
9. Luxury Smartwatches
Since its debut in the early 2000s, luxury smartwatches have come a long way. These high-end smartwatches are made for people who want to look good while also carrying a useful gadget around with them.
Numerous luxury watch brands produce high-quality timepieces. Some of these are Breitling, Frederique Constant, and Tag Heuer.
Like a typical smartwatch, these devices include features like activity tracking, fitness monitoring, and global positioning system (GPS) capabilities.
It’s also worth noting that many luxury smartwatches use the same underlying platform as general-use smartwatches, such as Google’s WearOS. The primary difference is that you’re paying a lot of money for the high-end appearance and well-known brand.
Example Model: Breitling Exospace B55 and TAG Heuer Connected Modular 45.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Trendy and stylish designsComes with premium features
Easy to operate
Watches are water-resistant[/i2pros][i2cons]Expensive
Average battery life[/i2cons][/i2pc]
10. Sports Smartwatches
Smartwatches for sports activities come in a variety of styles and sizes. These smartwatches are similar to fitness-focused ones, but they have different apps or features to help with the specific sport.
Several smartwatches on the market are specifically targeted for a specific sport. The Garmin Approach is one such example of a golf smartwatch. These often come with course maps and GPS to help you navigate, as well as automatic tracking of how many shots each hole requires.
Mountain climbing smartwatches are another popular example; these rugged watches are made to withstand extreme temperatures and have screens that work well in direct sunlight.
There are also watches made specifically for rowers, mountain bikers, and even skiers. Also, they’re water-resistant and equipped with GPS, so they’ll still work even if it’s raining outside.
So, if you want to keep track of your workout stats while out for a run, hike, swim, or bike ride, then these sports smartwatches are the best option.
Example Model: Garmin Forerunner 35 and Polar Ignite.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Comes with great sports featuresWater-resistant
ABC sensors
Durable construction
Value the money[/i2pros][i2cons]Expensive
Battery life can be quickly depleted.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
11. Hybrid Smartwatches
If you want the best smartwatches, you need one that looks like a regular watch but does more than just tell the time. A hybrid device is a cutting-edge innovation that fuses a traditional mechanical timepiece and a smartwatch.
A processor, sensors, and wireless connectivity are all included in a hybrid smartwatch. Additionally, these smartwatches have Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to connect your smartwatch to your phone via a Bluetooth connection.
Moreover, they have a slew of features for keeping tabs on your physical well-being, including the ability to track your steps, pulse, and sleep.
Most hybrid smartwatches have a small smartwatch screen integrated into the main watch face, but this may only be large enough to show your daily step count or notify you when you have a new notification from your smartphone.
The hybrid smartwatch has a long battery life, one of its major advantages. In contrast to other smartwatches, this type of watch typically consumes less battery.
Example Model: Withings Steel HR Hybrid Smartwatch.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Comes in modern designsIt does not require charging
Monitors physical activities
Sleep tracking
Supports Google Assistants[/i2pros][i2cons]Lacks many features[/i2cons][/i2pc]
12. Camera Smartwatches
Smartwatches with built-in cameras are the latest craze in fashionable wristwear. These devices have video cameras built-in, allowing users to record videos and take photos.
Like any other smartwatch, you can use Bluetooth to connect it to your phone and access various features. For instance, you can make or receive phone calls, send or read text messages, look at notifications, open emails, and use other apps.
You can also save your photos and videos on this device because it has an internal storage capacity and a memory card slot.
Another fantastic feature is that they have a long battery life when fully charged. It’ll undoubtedly last 12 hours.
Example Model: Refly 4G Smartwatch
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Comes with advanced featuresCapture pictures
Great built-in storage
Good battery life
Supports video recording[/i2pros][i2cons]They aren’t waterproof[/i2cons][/i2pc]
13. Spy Smartwatches
Spy smartwatches have a high-tech camera built right into the watch face. Using a smartwatch, you can discreetly record videos and photos by pressing the watch on/off button.
The spy watches come equipped with night vision cameras and long battery life to ensure clear recordings. A large storage capacity is also included so that you can store all of your recorded clips in one place before moving them to another device.
Additionally, spy smartwatches have simple and elegant designs that should be comfortable on your wrist and not draw any attention, making them ideal for surveillance.
Example Model: Liyahha Home and CIGONG Smartwatch.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Minimalist designGreat memory storage
Efficient in recording videos and audios
Easy to use[/i2pros][i2cons]Lacks durability[/i2cons][/i2pc]
14. Waterproof Smartwatches
Waterproof smartwatches are becoming more popular. Many newer models come with IPX-certified sensors, which can protect them from water damage for up to an hour.
The best waterproof smartwatch allows you to check your messages and phone calls even when raining. It is not permitted to be used while swimming or participating in any water sport. However, they can operate underwater with ease.
These smartwatches are labeled with various grades, such as “5 ATM” or “10 ATM,” to indicate their water resistance. Water resistance is limited to a maximum depth of 100 meters. In the same way, watches with the 5 ATM mark can withstand pressures of up to 50 meters.
If you want to wear your smartwatch underwater, you’ll need a watch that can withstand pressures greater than 100 meters (or 328 feet).
In addition, waterproof smartwatches have GPS built-in and can easily monitor heart rate, stress levels, and other statistics.
Example Models: Apple Watch Series 7 and Garmin Vivoactive 4.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Comes with modern featuresBuilt-in GPS
They are waterproof
Great for swimming and other underwater activities[/i2pros][i2cons]Low battery life
Little bit expensive[/i2cons][/i2pc]
15. Kids Smartwatches
There are numerous advantages when it comes to giving young children smartwatches instead of smartphones. To provide you with an idea, you can use a GPS tracking device or a two-way phone call to keep track of where your child is at all times.
Additionally, some smartwatches for children come with educational games, GPS trackers, and SOS buttons that help both parties keep track of each other and provide a sense of security.
Moreover, smartwatches for children over the age of six are available. The built-in calendar, time, and tracker features make them useful. If your children are interested in photography, some smartwatches also include a camera.
Example Model: Tick Talk 4 and Apple Watch SE
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Comes with useful functionsThey are waterproof
Durable
Long battery life
Possesses entertainment features[/i2pros][i2cons]Bit bulky[/i2cons][/i2pc]
16. Women Smartwatches
Menstrual tracking, heart rate, sleep patterns monitoring, and stress management are just a few of the features that many women-specific smartwatches offer. Women concerned about their overall health and well-being will find this more appealing.
Women’s smartwatches come in various styles, all of which have a sleek feminine feel to them. Because they are small, they are designed to be light and comfortable to wear.
Example Model: Casio Baby Pink G and Fossil Women’s Gen 4 Venture
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Stylish AppearanceLightweight
Customizable designs
Excellent battery life[/i2pros][i2cons]Limited styles
Limited features[/i2cons][/i2pc]
17. Unisex Smartwatches
Men are no longer the only ones who wear smartwatches. There are now gender-neutral smartwatches, and they can be worn comfortably by both men and women! Indeed, unisex smartwatches are the perfect combination of fashion and technology wrapped around our wrists.
Previously, wearables like watches were bulky and only worn by men. However, there has been a rise in lightweight, minimalist-designed smartwatches that cater to everyone’s needs.
Smartwatches these days are packed with the most up-to-date features. Whether you’re tracking your progress, checking on your phone notifications, or gauging your stress levels, these timepiece does it all with ease.
Example Model: Amazfit GTS 2 Mini and Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]High-quality designsEquipped with advanced features
Durable construction
Long battery life[/i2pros][i2cons]Some high-end unisex smartwatches are very expensive[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Conclusion
To conclude, it is all about the different types of smartwatches. There are 17 different types of smartwatches designed according to specific needs.
If you’ve read this post, we’re confident that knowing the different types of watches available will help you find the right one according to your requirements.
Thank you for reading!
Hey! I’m Saad. My passion for tech wearables is true, and it started when my brother gave me a gift of a smartwatch.
I started Gorilla-FitnessWatches to give the latest and most reliable information to anyone who needed it. If you have any questions regarding smartwatches, fitness trackers, or smart rings, feel free to contact me.