Smart watches have evolved from glorified pedometers to sophisticated electronic devices that can send emails and texts, track your heartbeat, blood pressure, blood oxygen levels, and, yes, your steps. The Apple Watch falls outside many people’s price ranges — the base price for the latest model is $500, or $1,249 if you opt for the Hermes version — but there are plenty of smart watches that can deliver the same metrics for significantly less. (Of course, that’ll be without Apple’s seamless device compatibility, but if you’re not a Mac person you don’t care about that anyway.) We’ve rounded up a selection of smart watches that range from basic fitness trackers to mini cell phones, with a few traditional watches that include heart rate monitors and more. We’ve only included ones with user ratings of four stars and up; with such a wide array of products on the market, why bother with anything less? Below, find a list of smartwatches including Apple Watch, Samsung Galaxy Watch, and Fitbit. For more shopping guides read our roundup of must-have electronics and amazing gadgets that tech lovers won’t want to pass up.
Apple Watch Series 7 (GPS + Cellular)
Apple Watches are imminently customizable, from the color of the watch case to the style of band (and that’s not even counting the features), so if this doesn’t suit your aesthetic you can click through above to choose from plenty of other options. The Apple Watch Series 7 is a GPS + Cellular model that lets you call, text, and get directions without your phone, and can measure your blood oxygen with an all-new sensor and app, check your heart rhythm with the ECG app, and track your daily activity and see your trends in the Fitness app on your iPhone.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
Not a Mac person? The Samsung Galaxy smart watch is now on its fourth iteration, and comes with advanced health monitoring, fitness tracking, and smartphone functionality. It’s customizable, connects to Bluetooth, and allows easy sharing of data to your health care providers. (If you want to spend a little less, the second and first generation models are available at lower price points.)
Fitbit Versa 2 Watch
If the fitness stats are what you’re looking for, then this Fitbit model will give you everything you need. Not only will you get your health metrics, but you’ll also be able to use the built-in Alexa for certain smart-home capabilities, the Spotify app for listening to music while you work out, and more than 20 goal-based exercise modes.
Letsfit Smart Watch
If an Apple Watch is way out of your budget, the latest version of Letsfit’s smart watch can also monitor blood oxygen saturation and monitor your heart rate, all inside its IP68 waterproof case. This one’s compatible with both Android and iPhone, so you can get your messages and calls, control music, set a timer, plus track all your fitness metrics.
Virmee VT3 Lite Fitness Tracker Watch
One of the cheapest but best-rated options out there — it’s got a universal five-star rating from more than 100 users — this will also track your heart rate, sleep quality, workout data, and more. It’s compatible with Android and iPhone.
Bowost Smart Watch
Another high-rated and well-priced option, this is also a clear and intuitive multifunctional smartwatch that comes with sleep tracking, heart rate and blood pressure monitoring, call and message reminders, GPS tracking, weather forecasts, and a downloadable app that lets you control your phone camera, music, and more. It’s IP68 waterproof and fast charging to give you days of normal usage.
Michael Kors Access Gen 5 Bradshaw Smartwatch
This isn’t just a traditional-looking Michael Kors watch — it has a stylish metal band, but it’s powered with Google technology and includes a speaker, heart rate, GPS, NFC, and smartphone notifications. It comes in several different metals and finishes, so you can choose the look you want.
Fossil Men’s Gen 5E 44mm Stainless Steel Touchscreen Smartwatch
Fossil’s smart watch option can not only track the standard fitness and health metrics and perform some of your most essential smartphone functions, but you can also use it for contactless payments. The future is here, people.
YAMAY SW022 Round Smart Watch
If you’re looking for a less boxy, more attractive option, this round touchscreen watch is also customizable (depending on the band you choose) and compatible with iOs 9.0 and Android 5.0 and above. Track all your metrics, get your incoming messages, and more all in this more traditional-looking model (which is IP68 waterproof and has a standard seven-day battery life). Sign Up: Stay on top of the latest breaking film and TV news! Sign up for our Email Newsletters here.