A smartwatch can track your runs, show messages without pulling out your phone, and help you build healthier habits. But smartwatches range from simple fitness bands to rugged outdoor GPS watches and kids' watches with calling. This smartwatch buying guide helps you work out which type suits you, and which features are worth paying for.
Step one: check phone compatibility
The first question is what phone you use. Some smartwatches only work fully with one phone platform, while others support both iPhone and Android. Features such as replying to messages, contactless payments and app support can vary depending on the phone you pair with. Always check the product description for compatibility before choosing a model.
The main types of smartwatch
| Type | Strengths | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday smartwatch | Notifications, apps, payments, good screens | People who want a phone companion on the wrist |
| Fitness and sports watch | Accurate GPS, training metrics, long battery | Runners, cyclists, swimmers and gym-goers |
| Rugged outdoor watch | Tough cases, navigation, very long battery | Hiking, camping, fishing and adventure sports |
| Fitness band or tracker | Slim, light, simple and affordable | Step, sleep and heart rate tracking |
| Kids' smartwatch | GPS location, calls to approved contacts, limited features | Parents who want contact without giving a child a phone |
Health and fitness features
Most smartwatches track steps, heart rate and sleep. Many also offer:
- Built-in GPS to map runs, rides and walks without carrying your phone.
- Blood oxygen and stress readings for general wellness insights.
- Workout modes for activities such as swimming, cycling, strength training and yoga.
- Recovery and training load insights on sports-focused models.
- Water resistance suitable for swimming on many models; check the rating and any limits in the product details.
Smartwatch health features are designed for general wellness and fitness tracking. They are not a substitute for medical devices or advice, so speak with a health professional about any health concerns.
Battery life: the biggest trade-off
Battery life varies enormously. Watches with bright, always-on colour displays and lots of apps may need charging every day or two. Sports and outdoor watches with power-efficient screens can last much longer, and some include solar charging to extend time between charges.
Think about how often you're happy to charge. If you want to track sleep every night, a watch that lasts several days is much easier to live with. Spare smartwatch chargers and docks are handy for the office or travel bag, and a small power bank can top up a watch on a multi-day hike.
Screen, size and comfort
- AMOLED screens are bright and vivid, ideal for everyday smartwatches.
- Memory-in-pixel and similar displays are easier to read in harsh sun and use less power, common on outdoor watches.
- Case size matters for comfort. Smaller wrists may suit 40 to 42mm cases, while larger cases give bigger screens and often larger batteries.
- Straps are easy to swap on most watches. Silicone suits exercise; woven, leather or metal straps suit everyday wear.
Kids' smartwatches
Kids' smartwatches are designed to let children stay in touch without a full smartphone. Common features include GPS location for parents, calls and messages limited to approved contacts, and a school mode that disables distractions during class. Most need their own mobile service, so check network compatibility and any plan requirements. Choose a comfortable, durable band and involve your child in picking a colour so they're happy to wear it.
Extra features worth considering
- Contactless payments let you tap to pay from your wrist.
- Music storage lets you leave your phone at home and listen through Bluetooth earbuds. Our noise cancelling headphones guide can help you choose a pair.
- Mobile connectivity (LTE or 4G) allows calls and messages without your phone nearby, usually with an additional plan.
- Offline maps and navigation on outdoor watches can help with route-finding.
- Safety features such as fall detection or emergency contact sharing on some models.
How to choose in four questions
- What phone do you use, and is the watch fully compatible?
- What's the main job: notifications, fitness, outdoor adventure or a child's first device?
- How often are you willing to charge it?
- What size and style will you be comfortable wearing every day?
Smartwatch or fitness band?
If your main goal is counting steps, monitoring sleep and seeing basic notifications, a slim fitness band can do the job well and is often lighter and cheaper than a full smartwatch. A smartwatch makes more sense if you want apps, payments, music, built-in GPS or a bigger screen for maps and workouts. Some people start with a band, then step up once they know which features they actually use.
Settings that make a big difference
Most watches arrive with every notification switched on. Spend a few minutes in the companion app choosing which apps can buzz your wrist, set a sleep schedule, and adjust screen brightness and always-on display. These small tweaks improve battery life and make the watch less distracting.
Looking after your smartwatch
Rinse the watch and strap with fresh water after swimming in the sea or a chlorinated pool, and dry it before charging. Keep the software updated through the companion app, and wipe sensors on the back of the watch regularly so readings stay consistent. A screen protector or protective case from our smartwatch accessories can help prevent scratches.
Smartwatch brands to compare
Our smartwatch range includes Garmin sport and outdoor watches, Fitsmart everyday smartwatches, Kogan models and Spacetalk kids' smartwatches. Pair your watch with wireless headphones for phone-free workouts, or browse smartwatch accessories for straps and protection. You can see every brand we stock on our brands page.
Related guides: Noise Cancelling Headphones Guide, Power Bank Buying Guide, Outdoor Toys.
Frequently asked questions
Do smartwatches work with any phone?
Not always. Some work with both iPhone and Android, while others have full features on one platform only. Check compatibility in the product details before you buy.
Which smartwatch has the longest battery life?
Sports and outdoor watches with power-efficient displays, and those with solar charging, generally last much longer than everyday smartwatches with bright AMOLED screens.
Can I swim with a smartwatch?
Many smartwatches are water resistant enough for swimming. Check the water resistance rating and the manufacturer's guidance for your model.
Do kids' smartwatches need a SIM card?
Most kids' smartwatches with calling and GPS location need their own mobile service. Check the network and plan requirements for the model you're considering.
