Choosing a smartwatch can seem simple until you are faced with dozens of models with different specifications: ECG, GPS, water resistance, battery life, Bluetooth calls... If you don't know what to look for, it's easy to overpay for features you won't use, or fall short on what you really need.
This guide helps you decide based on your lifestyle, not the longest list of specifications.
1. Define how you will use it
Before looking at models, ask yourself what matters most to you:
- Health and wellness: If you want to monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen, or sleep quality, prioritize models with health sensors like the HERALL with ECG and blood pressure.
- Sports and physical activity: If you run, swim, or exercise frequently, look for certified water resistance like the LOKMAT 5ATM sports watch and specific sports modes.
- Connectivity: If you want to answer calls, messages, or control music without taking out your phone, you need a model like the smartwatch with Bluetooth calls and music.
- Style and daily use: If you're looking for an elegant accessory that also provides notifications, try the Y16 ultra-thin with AMOLED screen.
There is no "best smartwatch" in general — there is the best one for your use.
2. Water resistance: understand the acronyms
It is one of the most misunderstood specifications. Some common references:
- IP67 / IP68: resistant to splashes, rain, and brief accidental immersion, like the S6 IP67 bracelet. Not suitable for regular swimming.
- 3ATM: withstands splashes and rain, but not swimming.
- 5ATM: suitable for swimming in a pool or the sea (not diving) — check out the LOKMAT 5ATM.
- 10ATM or more: designed for serious swimmers and water sports.
If you are going to swim with your watch on, don't settle for less than 5ATM.
3. Battery life: check actual use, not just the number
Manufacturers usually announce battery life in "basic mode" (time and notifications only). If you use GPS, always-on display (AMOLED always-on), or continuous health monitoring, the actual battery life can be significantly less than advertised.
As a general reference:
- Basic use: several days to 1-2 weeks
- Intensive use with GPS and AOD screen: 1-3 days
4. Screen type
- AMOLED: vivid colors, deep blacks, better visibility in the sun, like the Y16 AMOLED. Consumes more battery.
- LCD/TFT: more economical, good readability, lower consumption.
- Touch vs. buttons: touch screen is more intuitive, but physical buttons work better with gloves or when doing sports.
5. Compatibility with your phone
Not all smartwatches work the same with Android and iOS. Before buying, confirm:
- If you need a specific app and if it is available for your system
- If calls and notifications work the same on both systems (there are usually more limitations on iPhone)
- If the watch needs its own SIM card to work independently of the phone, like the DZ09 with SIM and camera
6. Health sensors: which ones are worth looking at
- Heart rate monitor: practically standard nowadays
- ECG (electrocardiogram): useful if you want more medical monitoring, like the HERALL with ECG, although it does not replace a professional diagnosis
- Blood oxygen (SpO2): relevant for those who train at altitude, available in the YK03
- Sleep monitor: common in most mid-range and high-end models, like the ZL02D
- Menstrual cycle monitor: increasingly present in models designed for women, like this women's smartwatch
7. Budget: what to expect in each range
- Basic range: notifications, heart rate, light water resistance, good battery life
- Mid-range: AMOLED screen, more sports modes, Bluetooth calls, ECG in some models
- High-end: advanced sensors like glucose and uric acid — the TK25 Premium is a good example, premium materials, integrated GPS
The most expensive model is not always the best suited for you — sometimes a mid-range model covers everything you need.
Buying for your kids?
If you are looking for a smartwatch for children, prioritize real-time location over other functions. The 4G GPS children's watch is an option designed precisely for that.
In summary
Before buying, ask yourself these four questions:
- What will I mainly use it for (health, sport, connectivity, or style)?
- Do I need it to be water resistant for swimming?
- How long do I want the battery to last between charges?
- Is it compatible with my phone?
Answering these questions will save you more money and frustration than comparing individual specs.
Looking for your next smartwatch? Explore our selection with models for every need: sports, with advanced health monitoring, water resistant, and with Bluetooth calls.