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The Best Smartwatches to Track Your Health and Fitness Goals

Omair Khaliq Sultan
Written By Omair Khaliq Sultan
Last updated: Jan 14, 2025, 03:24 AM
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Best Smartwatches

Smartwatches have revolutionized the way we manage our daily activities in a way few thought possible. These devices now play crucial roles in tracking fitness levels, monitoring heart rates, and providing instant notifications. Our review team did some extensive research and evaluated key features such as battery life, screen size, and overall performance.

Leading the pack is the Cubitt Viva Pro smartwatch and fitness tracker, which excels with its impressive battery longevity, crisp display, and comprehensive health monitoring capabilities. If we’ve piqued your interest, keep reading to learn more about the Cubitt Viva Pro and four other of the best smartwatches of 2025 below. 

View all Contents
  • The Best Smartwatch Buying Guide
    • Compatibility
    • Features
    • Battery Life
    • Design and Comfort
    • Brand Reputation
    • App Ecosystem
    • Water Resistance
    • Customization Options
    • Price
  • People Also Asked
  • Your Trust, Our Core Commitment
  • Contributors
  • Related Reads

Our Top Smartwatch Picks

  • Cubitt Smartwatch: Best Overall (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this smartwatch ↓
  • Samsung Galaxy Smartwatch: Best Fitness Tracking (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this smartwatch ↓
  • Uaue Smart Watch: Best Battery Life (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this smartwatch ↓
  • Apple SE Smart Watch: Most Reliable (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this smartwatch ↓
  • Garmin Smart Watch: Best Sleep Tracking (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this smartwatch ↓

The Best Smartwatches

Cubitt Smartwatch

Best Overall
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The Cubitt Viva Pro smartwatch and fitness tracker offers a dynamic visual experience with its 1.78-inch AMOLED display, allowing you to explore vibrant visuals and intuitive controls. The customizable screen engages users with its smooth 60 FPS refresh rate and a variety of dial styles. Utilizing always-on display technology, you can access multifaceted data for a deeper understanding of your health and fitness at any time. Equipped with advanced sensors, it actively monitors heart rate, sleep stages, blood oxygen levels, stress, and HRV. This empowers you to make informed decisions about your health and lifestyle.

Fitness enthusiasts can easily track their activities confidently using the built-in GPS, which captures precise data on routes, distances, and paces across 60+ sport modes, including swimming. I was happy to learn that the watch seamlessly integrates with iOS and Android devices, enabling users to make and receive calls and stay updated with notifications and reminders. Plus, its robust 350 mAh battery charges fully in 90 minutes and supports up to 10 days of typical use, ensuring the watch is a reliable companion. Additional features like weather forecasts, sedentary alerts, and music control further enhance your experience, making this the best smartwatch on our list.

Product Pros
  • Several color options
  • Long-lasting battery life
  • Bluetooth calling feature
Product Cons
  • Data not always 100% accurate

Samsung Galaxy Smartwatch

Best Fitness Tracking
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Samsung’s Galaxy Bluetooth smartwatch 6 powers your workouts with dynamic fitness tracking capabilities. It actively monitors a wide range of activities, from running to swimming, and keeps tabs on over 90 other exercises, ensuring you achieve your fitness goals. Personalized heart rate zones provide tailored insights, enabling you to target your preferred intensity levels to maintain optimal heart rate. The watch also utilizes advanced sleep coaching to guide you toward better sleep habits, including planning bedtimes and tracking sleep stages like awake, light, deep, and REM.

You can continuously monitor your heart with always-on heart rate scanning that alerts you to irregular rhythms, such as A-fib. Syncing it up to other Galaxy devices is simple and allows you to control music, cameras, calls, and texts from your wrist. The largest display yet also improves app navigation and withstands daily wear with durable crystal glass. Customize your look easily with a variety of swappable bands and enhanced watch faces, ensuring your smartwatch complements any outfit or mood. I was especially impressed that the advanced BIA sensor delivers comprehensive health insights, including readings on body fat, skeletal muscle, and BMI.

Product Pros
  • Accurate fitness tracking
  • Advanced sleep coaching
  • Large display 
Product Cons
  • Battery life isn’t the greatest

Uaue Smart Watch

Best Battery Life
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This Uaue smartwatch actively integrates a 1.91-inch TFT color screen and 3D curved tempered glass, creating a thin and lightweight experience at just 1.2 ounces (35 grams) and 11 millimeters thick. Adjusting the brightness manually ensures clear visibility of the time and exercise data even under direct sunlight. You can engage with over 200 customizable watch faces via the “GloryFit” app or personalize your smartwatch background with uploaded photos. This watch also allows you to answer or make calls and interact with voice assistants directly from the device, thanks to its built-in microphone and HD speaker. Plus, you’ll be able to stay connected by receiving notifications from apps like Facebook, Whatsapp, and Instagram, simply by raising your wrist to view messages.

The watch stands out with its robust 24/7 heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and blood oxygen saturation analysis using a high-precision LC10A sensor. This feature helps you understand your physical health comprehensively. For fitness enthusiasts, the watch supports over 110 sports modes, monitoring real-time metrics like steps, distance, calories, heart rate, and blood oxygen levels. Its IP68 waterproof design ensures worry-free use in various conditions, including rainy days and hand washing. I also like that the watch has a high-performance Seiko battery that ensures five to seven days of use.

Product Pros
  • Excellent battery life
  • Four colors to choose from
  • Easy to set up and use
Product Cons
  • Step count a bit off for some

Apple SE Smart Watch

Most Reliable
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The Apple SE (2nd Gen) smartwatch drives a significant commitment to environmental sustainability as it achieves carbon neutrality. Apple’s dedication to the environment underscores its ongoing efforts to reduce carbon emissions, highlighted by the watch’s carbon-neutral status when paired with the latest Sport Loop. This smartwatch activates motivation and engagement through essential features like fitness and sleep tracking, helping you stay connected and track your health effortlessly. The redesigned apps in watchOS 10 also streamline information access, allowing you to view essential data quickly.

Designed to enhance your safety and health, the watch includes fall detection, crash detection, and emergency SOS, offering immediate assistance during critical moments. It communicates seamlessly with other Apple products, unlocking your Mac automatically and easily locating devices. Plus, the Apple Watch supports advanced workout metrics through the Workout app and includes a three-month trial of Apple Fitness+, providing extensive training options. I like how its swim-proof design, customizable bands, and stylish finishes ensure it adapts to your lifestyle, while robust connectivity features like texting, calling, and Siri integration maintain your link to the world. And with comprehensive AppleCare coverage, this smartwatch not only enriches your daily routine but also offers peace of mind.

Product Pros
  • Includes helpful safety features
  • Accurate fitness and heart tracking
  • Durable and customizable design
Product Cons
  • Limited battery life

Garmin Smart Watch

Best Sleep Tracking
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I appreciate how this smartwatch can help you stay active and engaged with over 30 built-in sports apps, including activities like walking, running, cycling, and even wheelchair-specific modes. Garmin vívoactive 5 even tracks your progress in real-time and motivates you with preloaded workouts and adaptive training plans from Garmin Coach. 

This smartwatch streamlines your fitness journey by downloading your favorite music directly to the watch, connecting seamlessly to your wireless headphones for a phone-free listening experience. This smartwatch enhances your daily life with extensive health monitoring features, including wrist-based heart rate, stress tracking, menstrual cycle tracking, and more, providing personalized insights and actionable data to help you reach your fitness goals.

Product Pros
  • Detailed fitness and health data
  • Comfortable and lightweight
  • Variety of color options
Product Cons
  • Higher price point

The Best Smartwatch Buying Guide

From fitness tracking to seamless smartphone integration, the best smartwatch is more than just a timepiece—it’s a personal assistant, health monitor, and style statement all in one. Our guide will help you navigate the key factors that matter most, so you can find the right match for your lifestyle.

Compatibility

First, ensure that the smartwatch you choose syncs seamlessly with your smartphone. Whether you use an iPhone or an Android device, your smartwatch should integrate effortlessly.

Apple Watch models pair best with iPhones, while many other smartwatches work well with both iOS and Android. I would also check that the features you want are available on your device’s operating system to avoid unnecessary frustration later.

Features

The heart of any smartwatch lies in its features. They offer functionalities like fitness tracking, GPS, sleep monitoring, and ECG. You can even find kids smartwatches with these and other child-friendly features. You can narrow down your options by assessing what you need.

Do you want to monitor your heart rate continuously or keep tabs on your sleep patterns? Some models even allow you to make calls or listen to music right from your wrist. I recommend making a list of must-have features, then shortlist watches that meet those criteria.

Battery Life

In my experience, battery life can make or break your smartwatch experience. Some models require daily charging, while others last up to a week on a single charge.

Think about your routine—do you mind plugging in your watch every night, or would you prefer one that lasts longer? Keep in mind that watches with advanced features like GPS and heart rate monitoring often consume more power.

Design and Comfort

When it comes to something you’ll wear daily, design and comfort matter. Smartwatches come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, from sleek aluminum to durable stainless steel. Of course, you’ll also want to consider the strap material.

I’ve found that options like silicone, leather, and metal each offer different levels of comfort and durability. Try on different models if possible, and make sure the watch feels good on your wrist. And if you have certain allergies, know that some watches may contain materials like nickel that irritate the skin.

Brand Reputation

The brand behind the smartwatch can greatly influence your buying decision. Established brands like Apple, Samsung, and Garmin have a track record of reliability and customer support.

That being said, I wouldn’t overlook newer brands making waves with innovative products. Research customer reviews and expert opinions to gauge the performance and reliability of different models. A reputable brand often guarantees better software updates and customer service.

App Ecosystem

I’ve noticed that an overlooked but crucial factor is the app ecosystem. The smartwatch should support a variety of third-party apps that enhance its functionality.

For example, Apple’s App Store and Google Play offer numerous apps tailored for smartwatches. Consider the apps you use daily and check if they are available on the watch’s platform.

Water Resistance

Water resistance might not be a deal-breaker for everyone, but it’s a valuable feature for those who swim or live in rainy climates. Check the smartwatch’s IP rating.

Watches with higher ratings allow for more underwater activities. Even if you don’t swim, I like that a water-resistant watch offers peace of mind against accidental splashes or sudden downpours.

Customization Options

Customization options let you make the smartwatch truly yours. Many models offer interchangeable bands, customizable watch faces, and even downloadable widgets.

This flexibility ensures the watch fits your style and needs perfectly. Whether you prefer a classic look for office wear or a sporty design for workouts, customization options let you switch up your look with ease.

Price

Smartwatches can range from budget-friendly to premium-priced. While you might get tempted by high-end models packed with features, I’ve found that many mid-range options also deliver excellent performance.

Evaluate what you’re paying for and decide if the additional features justify the higher price. Often, you can find great deals during sales events or by opting for slightly older models.

People Also Asked

How do I connect my smartwatch to my smartphone?

To connect your smartwatch to your smartphone, download the manufacturer's companion app from the App Store or Google Play Store. Follow the on-screen instructions to pair the devices via Bluetooth.

How often should I charge my smartwatch?

Charging frequency depends on usage and model. Most smartwatches need to be charged every one to two days.

Can I wear my smartwatch while swimming?

Many smartwatches are water-resistant, but not all are designed for swimming. Check the water resistance rating in the user manual to determine if you can wear your watch while swimming.

What should I do if my smartwatch isn’t syncing with my phone?

Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both devices and they are within range. You could also restart both the smartwatch and smartphone. If the issue persists, reset the smartwatch and pair it again.

How do I update the software on my smartwatch?

Software updates are typically managed through the companion app on your smartphone. Check the app for any available updates and follow the prompts to install them on your smartwatch.

Can I replace the band on my smartwatch?

Most smartwatches come with interchangeable bands. Refer to the user manual or the manufacturer’s website for instructions on how to replace the band with a compatible one.

How do I clean and maintain my smartwatch?

Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the exterior. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. For many water-resistant models, you'll want to rinse with fresh water after exposure to saltwater or chlorine.

What should I do if my smartwatch screen freezes?

Try performing a soft reset by holding down the power button until the device restarts. If this doesn’t work, refer to the user manual for additional troubleshooting steps.

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Contributors

Omair Khaliq Sultan
Omair Khaliq Sultan
Omair is a certified strength coach with a specialization in Powerlifting-style training and sports rehab. He also has a keen interest in tech, music, and cooking. When he's not working, you'll probably find him lifting weights, noodling on his guitar, perfecting his smash burger recipe, or watching tech reviews on YouTube.
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