If you're in the market for a smartwatch but Apple Watch models just don't quite fit your needs, you're in luck. There are plenty of fantastic alternatives available. Whether you don't own an iPhone or are looking for a more budget-friendly option, numerous top smartwatches offer excellent features and performance without the Apple design or price tag.
Our Top Pick### Samsung Galaxy Watch 7
0See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### Google Pixel Watch 3
0See it at Amazon### Garmin Venu 3
2See it at AmazonSee it at Target### Fitbit Sense 2
0See it at AmazonSee it at Target### Amazfit Active 2
0See it at Amazon### Garmin Enduro 3
0See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro
0See it at Amazon### TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4
1See it at TAG HeuerIf the Apple Watch doesn't integrate well with your Android system, or you're not part of the Apple ecosystem, there are plenty of other smartwatches that seamlessly integrate with alternative platforms. These offer access to your notifications, fitness tracking, and contactless payments. If your primary interest is in health and fitness metrics, some wearables are specifically designed to monitor your workouts, sleep, and overall wellness.
Our Top Pick### Samsung Galaxy Watch 7
0This Google Wear OS-powered smartwatch offers advanced tracking, a bright AMOLED display, and decent battery life. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsScreen size40mm, 44mmHeart rateYesGPSYesCellularYesBattery Life~24 hoursStorage32GBSwimproofYesDust resistantYesPROSClassic and sleek circular watch designNew BioActive sensors improve accuracyCONSAI health features exclusive to Samsung Galaxy phonesThe Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 is the top choice for the best Android smartwatch, combining comfort, style, and functionality. The latest generation features a minimalist band with a sharp, circular, and responsive AMOLED touch display, maintaining a classic timepiece look. A new gesture feature enhances one-handed use, reducing the need to constantly tap the display.
It boasts a wide range of advanced sensors that monitor skin temperature, ECG, and blood oxygen saturation, along with reliable automatic exercise detection and solid sleep tracking. The new BioActive sensor enhances the accuracy of these metrics. Samsung has also added features to detect sleep apnea, similar to the Apple Watch Series 10, and other AI health tools like an Energy Score for more insightful health monitoring. However, these AI features are limited to Galaxy phones such as the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.
Thanks to a reliable and snappy 3-nanometer Exynos chip, the watch handles messaging, calls, and payments smoothly. It runs on Google’s Wear OS with the Samsung One UI skin, providing seamless access to a wide array of apps. Despite its advanced features, the battery life remains around 24 hours with typical usage, which is still better than the Apple Watch Series 10.
With various color options, 40mm and 44mm sizes, and swappable watch bands and faces, the Galaxy Watch 7 is highly customizable. It connects to your phone via Bluetooth and the Samsung Galaxy Wearable app, or you can use cellular connectivity.
### Google Pixel Watch 3
0Google's latest smartwatch is twice as bright and lasts up to 36 hours in battery saver mode. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size41mm, 45mmHeart rateYesGPSYesCellularYesBattery lifeUp to 24 hours (36 hours with battery saver mode)Storage32GBSwimproofYesDust resistantYesPROSTwo sizes availableSleek, modern designCONSBattery life still the same as the Pixel Watch 2The Google Pixel Watch 3 is a game-changer in the smartwatch world, blending a sleek design with cutting-edge features to help you manage your fitness goals and daily routine. With a 45mm screen that's twice as bright and 40% larger than its predecessor, the Pixel Watch 3 makes it easy to view your stats and information at a glance, whether you're running or checking messages.
For runners, the Pixel Watch 3 offers features like custom runs, real-time guidance, and form tracking with advanced metrics. With Fitbit Premium, Google AI uses your goals, past runs, and fitness readiness to provide personalized recommendations, making each run more effective and tailored to your needs. The readiness feature helps you understand what your body can handle each day, guiding you on whether to push hard or focus on recovery.
Beyond fitness, the Pixel Watch 3 integrates seamlessly into your life. It offers 24 hours of battery life with an always-on display, and up to 36 hours in Battery Saver mode. You can access Google Maps offline, use Google Wallet for payments, and control your Pixel camera from your wrist. Whether you're listening to music with Pixel Buds or checking your Nest Cam feed, this watch keeps you connected effortlessly.
### Garmin Venu 3
2Beyond exercise tracking, GPS, and phone notifications, the Venu 3 features a unique Body Battery tool and other advanced fitness features. See it at AmazonSee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsScreen size41mm, 45mmHeart rateYesGPSYesCellularNoBattery LifeUp to 14 daysStorage8GB SwimproofYesDust resistantYesPROSLong battery lifeNo subscription needed for health metricsCONSApps aren’t very intuitiveThe Garmin Venu 3, equipped with a sharp AMOLED display and impressive battery life, is an excellent choice for iPhone users (or anyone) seeking robust fitness options and a circular watch design.
It offers the expected smartwatch features, including accurate GPS, phone notifications, music, fitness tracking, and heart rate monitoring. The Venu 3 enhances the unique Body Battery tool, providing insights on optimal workout times, and includes nap detection, sleep coaching, and wheelchair tracking, offering a comprehensive fitness experience.
While versatile and capable of tasks the Apple Watch can't do, the Venu 3 lacks cellular connectivity, requiring a smartphone for full functionality.
### Fitbit Sense 2
0Want to monitor your health stats and fitness? The Fitbit Sense 2 offers plenty of worthwhile data. See it at AmazonSee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsScreen size40.1mmHeart rateYesGPSYesCellularNoBattery LifeUp to 6 daysStorageN/ASwimproofYesDust resistantYesPROSWorks with Android and iPhoneStress monitoringCONSNo third-party appsThe Fitbit Sense 2, developed by Google, is the top choice for fitness enthusiasts and one of the best Fitbits overall. It's packed with useful fitness sensors, including GPS for tracking over 40 exercise modes, a skin temperature sensor for monitoring body heat, and continuous ElectroDermal Activity (cEDA) for stress tracking. The smartwatch is water-resistant, perfect for swimming.
With an impressive battery life of up to six days per charge, the Fitbit Sense 2 also integrates with Amazon Alexa for real-time updates and Google Wallet for quick, contactless payments.
### Amazfit Active 2
0This wallet-friendly smartwatch offers extensive health and fitness tracking with a GPS. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size44mmHeart rateYesGPSYesCellularNoBattery LifeUp to 10 daysStorageNot listedSwimproofYesDust resistantYesPROSGreat value Handy strength training modeCONSNFC support costs extraFor under $100, the Amazfit Active 2 provides numerous sensors, over 160 sports modes, and a GPS to meet all your health and fitness tracking needs. Its unique strength training mode automatically recognizes different moves, and an AI coach can guide your workouts. Downloadable maps add functionality, offering turn-by-turn directions without a smartphone connection. While not as accurate as an Apple Watch or Galaxy Watch, it's an unbeatable value.
The Amazfit Active 2 runs on Zepp OS, a lesser-known but user-friendly software that offers various apps and watch faces. An AI assistant, similar to Siri, is built-in to adjust settings and reply to messages. Unfortunately, NFC support requires an additional cost. There's no cellular connectivity, but the watch easily connects to iPhones or Androids via Bluetooth.
Its sleek, stainless steel design feels premium, with a responsive 1.32-inch AMOLED display visible in all lighting conditions. The lightweight build ensures comfort, and the watch can last up to 10 days depending on usage, making it one of the best budget fitness trackers available.
### Garmin Enduro 3
0Go the distance with the Enduro 3, thanks to an epic battery life, brilliant maps, and a host of fitness features. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsScreen size51mmHeart rateYesGPSYesCellularNoBattery Life90 days smartwatch mode, 320 hours GPS mode with solar powerStorage32GB SwimproofYesDust resistantYesPROSIncredible battery lifeAdvanced GPS and map featuresCONSClunky for smaller wristsMost smartwatches struggle to last 24 hours, with the Apple Watch Series 10 averaging about 18 hours. The Garmin Enduro 3, however, can survive weeks or even months on a single charge depending on usage. With a unique Power Sapphire lens for solar power-saving, it can achieve 90 days in smartwatch mode or 320 hours in GPS mode with proper lighting conditions, significantly outlasting other smartwatches.
Beyond its battery life, the Enduro 3 excels in GPS tracking and running features, including topo maps, grade-adjusted pace, and dynamic round-trip routing to keep you on schedule. Updated sensors provide more accurate health and wellness insights, alongside extensive tracking and sports modes. While app notifications, calls, and music playback are slightly limited, the watch is primarily designed for fitness.
Built for adventurers, the Garmin Enduro 3 features a durable titanium body and bezel, with 100m water resistance ideal for divers and swimmers. Its touch display may not be as flashy as others but is reliable and easy to read. Several buttons make navigation easier, especially when wearing gloves. Garmin even includes a tiny LED flashlight for late-night trail navigation. Be aware, though, that this feature-rich watch might feel a bit clunky on smaller wrists.
### Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro
0Take this rugged smartwatch on the trails with its GPS map support and “Track Back” feature for finding your way if you’re lost in the wilderness. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size45mmHeart rateYesGPSYesCellularYesBattery LifeUp to 80 hoursStorage16GBSwimproofYesDust resistantYesPROSTitanium caseGreat for outdoor enthusiastsCONSOne size doesn’t fit allInstead of the Apple Watch Ultra, consider the Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro, which we've reviewed and highly recommend for rugged outdoor use. At 45mm, this Android smartwatch is designed for adventure with features like GPS map support and Samsung’s “Track Back” to help you navigate if you're lost.
Made from durable Titanium and Sapphire crystal glass, its battery can last up to 80 hours per charge. Starting at $450, the Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro is nearly 45 percent less expensive than the Apple Watch Ultra or Apple Watch Ultra 2.
### TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4
1With a premium build, high price tag, smartwatch basics, and health tracking, this is for those who love luxury. See it at TAG HeuerProduct SpecificationsScreen size42mm, 45mmHeart rateYesGPSYesCellularNoBattery LifeUp to 24 hoursStorage8GBSwimproofYesDust resistantYesPROSStunning designSmooth, consistent performanceCONSSmart features are more subduedIf money is no object, TAG Heuer's brilliant smartwatch doubles as a stunning classic timepiece. The Connected Calibre E4 features a crisp, clear touch display behind sapphire crystal, with a body made of durable steel or titanium and ceramic. Its attention to detail surpasses the Apple Watch, with both sandblasted and polished elements on the frame delivering a truly premium feel. TAG Heuer’s watch faces are equally stunning. A sturdy rubber crown and additional buttons ensure easy navigation without relying solely on the touchscreen.
While its looks are exceptional, the Connected Calibre E4 also includes all expected smartwatch features. Fitness tracking and workouts are accessible via the TAG Heuer Sports app, and its renowned golf app offers maps, distance, and other tools for golfers. However, it's lighter on sensors, including only a heart rate monitor, compass, and barometer. A GPS can map walks, runs, and more.
Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 4100+ processor and Google WearOS, using the watch is smooth and consistent. It connects seamlessly to Android devices but also works well with the best iPhones. Though it can receive notifications, it cannot answer calls. Battery life lasts around a day, similar to the Apple Watch Series 10. While the smart features may be more subdued, if luxury is your priority, it's hard to beat.
The Apple Watch is popular, but many seek more functionality, style, or affordability. Some find the Apple Watch limited in these areas, while Android users can't use it due to compatibility issues. With a variety of alternatives, selecting the best smartwatch can be daunting. Our guide simplifies the process.
While Apple Watch alternatives use different operating systems, Google WearOS is the most popular and compatible with both iOS and Android via smartphone apps and Bluetooth. Some brands, like Samsung and Google, limit their watches to Android smartphones. Ensure your smartphone is compatible with your chosen smartwatch.
The line between fitness trackers and smartwatches has blurred, but they still serve different primary functions. Fitness trackers are smaller and focus on health goals, monitoring heart rate, steps, calories, and blood oxygen levels, often with workout-specific modes. For example, the Fitbit Sense 2 is a fitness tracker with some smartwatch features like notifications and contactless payments, but its main focus is fitness and health.
Smartwatches are larger, resembling traditional watches, and handle additional tasks like notifications, emails, messaging, and maps. They can also track fitness but may not offer as detailed workout data as fitness trackers. Choose a fitness tracker for gym use and a smartwatch for broader functionality.
The Apple Watch's price, starting at $249 for the Apple Watch SE, can be a drawback. Alternatives like the Amazfit Active 2 offer similar features for as little as $100. Many alternatives provide comparable functionality at a lower price, with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 being the closest to the Apple Watch in features.
Many seeking Apple Watch alternatives are dissatisfied with its rounded-corners square design. Brands like Samsung, Google, Garmin, and others offer circular designs, appealing to those who prefer traditional watch aesthetics. For a circular design, consider the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 or Google Pixel Watch 3, which resemble traditional watches but offer Apple Watch-like features. iPhone users wanting a round design can opt for the Garmin Venu 3 or TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4, both compatible with iPhones and stylish.
Both smartwatches and fitness trackers focus on health and fitness tracking, offering various sensors. Smartwatches provide additional features like app notifications, phone call support, and music playback, often with larger screens and GPS support. Some also offer cellular connectivity for an additional fee. Fitness trackers usually have longer battery life due to their smaller size and fewer features, though there's considerable overlap between the two.
Not all smartwatches support cellular service. The Apple Watch, Google Pixel Watch, and Samsung Galaxy Watch offer this feature, but it increases the cost of the watch and adds a monthly fee to your phone bill. Without cellular, many smartwatches can still perform typical smartphone functions like receiving notifications, responding to texts, and answering calls when connected via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. However, a smartwatch's utility is limited without internet access.
While a smartphone isn't always necessary to use a smartwatch, it's highly recommended. Some smartwatches with cellular connectivity can function like small smartphones. Without this, most smartwatch features are less accessible or useful without a phone.