5 Things To Know Before Buying A Smartwatch In 2023
© Fitbit sucksWhether it's for working out, checking notifications, or tracking your life, there are plenty of options if you're looking for a good smartwatch. However, there are a number of things to consider before choosing the right one. Some of these considerations are nothing new, like choosing a watch that fits your lifestyle. Other concerns are relatively new, such as the security of health announcement period data.
Finding the best smartwatch is not as easy as it was a few years ago. With that in mind, we've put together this list of considerations for the smartwatch buying process in 2023.
1. What operating system does your phone use?
Most smart watches connect to your phone. This could be to share notifications, download a playlist, or sync with your calendar. Whatever the reason, you'll want something that works well with your phone, so you need to know what operating system or operating system it's running.
In true Apple fashion, the best Apple Watches make great collector's items if you have an iPhone to pair them with. You can use the iPhone to fix things for a friend or relative before you hand it over, but many of the device's best features come from its rectangular big brother that lives in your pocket.
On the other hand, Huawei devices also have their limitations and are naturally best paired with a Huawei phone running EMUI. Otherwise, you may not be able to use some Huawei Watch features, such as contactless payments.
Android is a bit more open, but some manufacturers offer additional features. For example, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is great, but it's even better if you have a Samsung phone. The same can be said for the Google Pixel Watch.
However, Fitbit, Garmin, and others work through apps that can be found on almost any mobile platform.
2. How do you like to train?
Of course, the types of workouts you enjoy will make a big difference in the monitor you choose. Runners have access to fantastic gear, and some of the best running watches can be found on the cheap, but serious athletes will spend more money on more advanced features.
Running watches feature GPS trackers that can not only help you map your run, but also help you find your way back if you get lost on trails and hikes, plus lightweight designs that sometimes eschew screen interfaces altogether. Touch the tactile buttons. They let you make quick adjustments and even control music with sweaty hands or gloves.
On the other hand, you can find watches that will connect to fitness apps and training plans. Apple Watch, for example, can show you your next set and let you tag your repeaters as you go. These watches can track heart rate and calories burned, but they don't need advanced GPS capabilities. Partly because they're connected to your phone, but also because if you prefer to train indoors, you don't need these features.
3. What medical information is important to you?
Everyone is different and everyone's body is different, which means the health metrics that are important to you may be low on the priority list for others.
If you want to monitor your heart rate, many fitness trackers and smartwatches can do it, but it may be important for you to find one with an EKG to track heart rate irregularities. The Huawei Watch D actually has a blood pressure cuff cuff, which allows for more accurate blood pressure readings on demand.
Sleep tracking requires consistent battery life (or at least a faster charge before bed), but that's not a priority for many. Many apps store this data in your records, but some can write to your medical history through the Health app on iPhone or Google Fit on Android. This can be helpful if you need to share this information with your family or doctor.
It should be noted that very few smartwatches have certified features for use in a medical environment; These readings are indicative only. However, they can be a very helpful clue to see a doctor if, for example, you find that your historical heart health data shows irregular rhythms.
4. Are my data safe?
Speaking of data sharing, there's been a lot of talk about what data fitness trackers collect and how it's used to maintain a digital profile. Some smartwatches and wristbands track menstrual cycles and ovulation, and encryption is especially important (here are four ways to protect your period tracking data to get you started).
Google Pixel, for example, treats your Health Connect data in the most private and confidential way you can expect. This means that you will only request the data your apps and services need, and it will not be shared with ad providers or data brokers.
It may seem obvious, but for a company that earns a lot from data traffic and advertising, it's good to know. Most other smartwatch manufacturers are following suit.
Apple, as you might imagine from a company so focused on privacy, is the same. Health data is encrypted on your device and in transit to and from iCloud. However, it's best to research where your chosen device's data goes before you make a purchase.
5. Do you need LTE?
Most smartwatches connect to your phone and any associated Wi-Fi, leaving your cell phone unattended most of the time.
However, some offer LTE connectivity, which means you can use them to make calls, send messages, and stream audio while leaving your phone at home.
LTE models are more expensive than their Bluetooth and Wi-Fi-only counterparts, but the ability to turn them off entirely may be worth it depending on your use case. Samsung Galaxy Watch 5, Google Pixel Watch and Apple Watch offer LTE options.
You'll also want to consider the cost of your watch's data plan, although many carriers may add a small fee to your existing airtime bill to cover your smartwatch's data plan.
