Best Smartwatches for 2024

As 2023 draws to a close, and 2024 looms on the horizon, we figured that we would get our magic eight balls out, and do a little bit of predicting what is in store for the future. It’s a fun way to close out the year and also allows us a moment to reflect on all the new devices that have been released, and that we haven’t had the time to properly appreciate yet. 

As we spend a lot of time working with and thinking about smartwatches; we figured that we might as well dive into which we think will be the best, and most popular, smartwatches for 2024. Most of them have been released already, which is why we will also look at some of the smartwatch models scheduled for, and rumored to be, released in the coming year. 

Of course, absent any actual magical powers, we will look at trends and give our opinions regarding which will be the most popular smartwatches in 2024, and why. Hopefully, this will help guide you if you’re planning on buying a new one, as we hope to get a few surprises in there, together with the established brands. 

A Quick Overview

Before moving forward with our more in-depth list, let’s just rattle off our contenders in the beginning for a quick overview. 

It should be said, however, before we begin with any actual listmaking or prediction, that smartwatches, broadly, are hard to define in a format like this. This is for a very simple reason: not everyone uses their smartwatch the same, and therefore the “best” smartwatch for one person is not the best for someone else. Some users might invest in a smartwatch because they just want a way to toggle calls, read messages, and change the song without having to take out their phone. Some might invest in one to track their health, or even improve their golf game. If you’re standing on a cramped bus, desperately wanting to listen to a new episode of your favorite podcast, then you might not have much use in knowing what your handicap is as you approach the ninth hole, and vice versa. For this very reason, we are omitting the approach of breaking smartwatches into specific categories, and instead looking at them more broadly. 

Another thing we are omitting from this list is explicit fitness trackers, which is why you won’t, for instance, see the mention of Fitbit Charge 6 - which some might argue deserves a high spot. This is not because fitness trackers aren’t good, or not considered smartwatches, but because they serve a very specific and valuable purpose where the models that did make our list have more all-around features, fitness tracking being one of them. 

With that being said, let’s look at the list which we have broken into two groups: the usual suspects, and the contenders. 

The Usual Suspects

In this section, we’ll see the names, models, and brands you would expect from a list like this. Not much explanation or introduction is needed. Consider it a victory lap. 

• Apple Watch Series 9: As reliably as a clock will strike, Apple releases a new model of their iPhone and their Apple Watch each year, and as reliably, they always end up on the best of the year lists. This is no different when it comes to Series 9, which was released in 2023 and we suspect will be a favorite in the coming year as well. 
• Samsung Galaxy Watch6: Much like Apple, Samsung is known for its reliable output of high-end tech gadgets, from smartphones, smartwatches, TVs, and refrigerators - with several editions sometimes released each year. This might be easy to pull off for one of the biggest tech companies in the world, but their productivity has not damaged their quality. The Watch6 was an excellent smartwatch, that we suspect will keep growing in popularity. 
• Google Pixel Watch 2: Speaking of some of the biggest tech companies in the world - on our list is the Google Pixel Watch 2. While being the tech giant's second-only smartwatch, we suspect it will be a big success as hype around this incredible device grows. Google has surprised us with their smartphones, and it turns out their smartwatches were no different. 
• Garmin Venu 3: Finally, we have the third iteration in a popular series, from an overwhelmingly popular manufacturer. Some are calling the Venu 3 Garmin’s best release yet, and that is saying something considering Garmin also has the Forerunner, Fenix, Vivomove, and Instinct series on its roster. You can almost forget about 2024, we suspect this one will be a favorite for years and years to come. 

The Contenders

Now, for the contenders. After all, just because something is popular doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best. These are models whose popularity we think will grow, and that we consider worthy of a second look for anyone interested in smartwatches. 

• TicWatch Pro 5: TicWatch is certainly not new to the smartwatch space, but, likely, you have never heard of one of their models before. The TicWatch smartwatches are also manufactured by a company called Mobvoi, which is far, far larger in China than elsewhere. Their latest smartwatch, the TicWatch Pro 5, is an incredible device and something we believe more consumers will be interested in. 
• Huawei Watch 4: It might seem a little bit strange to consider a product from Huawei, another one of the largest technology companies in the world, as a contender but we think our reasoning is fair: they’re not known for their smartwatches and the Huawei Watch 4 is great, simply put. We believe that, just like their smartphones, the word about Huawei’s smartwatches will grow and that the Watch 4 will be the most popular among them. 

Our contenders for the best smartwatches of 2024

Apple Watch Series 9

Model breakdown

The Apple Watch Series 9 is a remarkable piece of technology that offers an array of impressive features and specifications. With a sleek and stylish design, it measures 41mm in height, and 35mm in width, and has a depth of 10.7mm. The watch is available in different case materials, including aluminum and stainless steel, with the aluminum version weighing 31.9g for the GPS model and 32.1g for the GPS + Cellular model. The stainless steel variant weighs slightly more at 42.3g.

Under the hood, the Apple Watch Series 9 is powered by a cutting-edge dual-core CPU with a staggering 5.6 billion transistors, offering a 60% increase in performance compared to its predecessor. This powerful chip enables seamless multitasking, smooth app performance, and fast processing of tasks. Complementing the CPU is a four-core Neural Engine that handles machine learning tasks efficiently, providing enhanced performance and capabilities for AI-powered features.

The watch boasts an impressive display that showcases vibrant colors and sharp details. It incorporates advanced sensors that enable a range of health and fitness tracking features. These include a Blood Oxygen app, which provides users with insights into their blood oxygen levels, and an ECG app that allows for easy monitoring of heart rhythm.

The Apple Watch Series 9 is also water-resistant, allowing users to wear it confidently during swimming or other water-based activities. It offers seamless connectivity, with options for both GPS and GPS + Cellular models. The watch is powered by a high-capacity battery that provides all-day battery life, ensuring that you can enjoy its features throughout the day.

Overall, the Apple Watch Series 9 is a highly capable and technologically advanced smartwatch that combines style, functionality, and innovation. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a tech lover, or simply someone who appreciates the convenience of wearable technology, the Apple Watch Series 9 is sure to impress with its impressive specifications and features.

Our opinion

The Apple Watch Series 9 is a testament to Apple's commitment to innovation and design. As we look ahead to 2024, we believe that this iconic smartwatch will continue to dominate the market and captivate consumers with its seamless integration of technology and style. The Apple Watch Series 9 has consistently set the bar high for smartwatches, and we anticipate that it will maintain its popularity due to its ability to stay ahead of the curve. With its unmatched user experience, robust ecosystem, and myriad features, the Apple Watch Series 9 is poised to remain at the forefront of wearable technology. Its sleek design, extensive health tracking capabilities, and seamless integration with other Apple devices make it an irresistible choice for tech enthusiasts and fashion-forward individuals alike. The Apple Watch Series 9 is not just a timepiece, but a lifestyle companion that will continue to redefine the way we interact with our devices and enhance our overall well-being.

Samsung Galaxy Watch6

Model breakdown

The Samsung Galaxy Watch6 is a highly advanced smartwatch that offers an impressive set of technical specifications and features. This sleek and stylish wearable comes in two variants: the 40mm base model and the Classic model with a 43mm variant. Both models feature a larger and brighter AMOLED display than their predecessors, with the Classic model bringing back the popular rotating bezel. The Watch6 runs on Wear OS 4 with Samsung's One UI 5 Watch skin, providing users with updated experiences and a seamless interface.

In terms of display, the 43mm Classic model boasts a 1.3-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 432 x 432, while the 47mm variant offers a 1.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 480 x 480. These vibrant and sharp displays ensure a clear and immersive viewing experience for users.

The Galaxy Watch6 offers advanced fitness tracking capabilities, including sleep coaching support, which helps users optimize their sleep patterns for improved rest and recovery. Additionally, the watch features body composition support, allowing users to track metrics such as body fat percentage and muscle mass.

One of the standout features of the Galaxy Watch6 is its irregular heart rate notification support, which can alert users to potential heart conditions. This feature provides users with valuable insights into their heart health and allows for early detection of any abnormalities.

The watch also offers a customized experience with various watch faces, widgets, and apps that can be personalized to suit individual preferences. It is compatible with both Android and iOS devices, allowing seamless integration with smartphones and access to a wide range of apps and notifications. The Galaxy Watch6 is water-resistant, making it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities.

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Pro is a feature-packed smartwatch that combines style, functionality, and advanced health tracking capabilities. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or simply someone who values the convenience of wearable technology, this smartwatch is sure to impress with its impressive specifications and user-friendly interface.

Our opinion

The Samsung Galaxy Watch6 is a remarkable smartwatch that has undoubtedly made its mark in the wearable technology industry. As we project into 2024, we firmly believe that this watch will continue to be a top contender and maintain its popularity among consumers. With its sleek design, powerful performance, and comprehensive range of features, the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 has set a high standard for smartwatches. Its intuitive interface, seamless integration with Samsung's ecosystem, and diverse selection of apps make it a versatile companion for both fitness enthusiasts and tech-savvy individuals. The watch's robust health-tracking capabilities and long-lasting battery life further contribute to its appeal. Samsung's commitment to continuous innovation and refinement ensures that the Galaxy Watch6 will remain at the forefront of wearable technology, offering users an exceptional experience that seamlessly blends style and functionality. As we look ahead, we are confident that the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 will continue to captivate consumers with its compelling combination of cutting-edge technology and user-friendly design. 

Google Pixel Watch 2

Model breakdown

Google has recently unveiled the highly anticipated Google Pixel Watch 2, a smartwatch that combines cutting-edge technology with sleek design. Crafted from 100% recycled aluminum, this environmentally conscious watch features a larger crown for easier navigation and a more intuitive user experience. 

The Pixel Watch 2 is equipped with a powerful quad-core CPU, delivering smoother performance and enhanced processing capabilities. With an impressive 24-hour battery life, users can rely on the watch to keep up with their busy schedules without worrying about frequent charging. The watch also boasts an always-on display, ensuring that important information is readily available at a glance.

In the realm of health and wellness, the Pixel Watch 2 takes center stage. It incorporates new sensors that enable more accurate heart rate tracking, providing users with deeper insights into their cardiovascular health. Additionally, the watch embraces Fitbit's Body Response feature, leveraging machine learning algorithms to detect signs of stress and prompt users to take action to reduce stress levels. 

Furthermore, the watch offers comprehensive sleep-tracking capabilities, empowering users to monitor and improve their sleep patterns for optimal rest and recovery. Those seeking to enhance their fitness routines will appreciate the inclusion of features such as Heart Rate Zone Coaching and Pace Training, which help users optimize their workouts and track their progress.

Safety is a top priority for the Pixel Watch 2, as evidenced by its array of safety features. The watch includes fall detection, Emergency SOS, Medical ID, Emergency Sharing, and Safety Check features, ensuring that users can stay safe and connected in emergencies. With its focus on performance, health, and safety, the Google Pixel Watch 2 presents itself as a formidable contender in the smartwatch market. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a tech aficionado, or simply someone who values convenience and style, the Pixel Watch 2 offers an impressive suite of features and specifications to meet your needs.

Our opinion

The Google Pixel Watch 2 is a highly anticipated smartwatch that has generated a lot of excitement among tech enthusiasts. As we look towards 2024, we firmly believe that this watch will continue to rise in popularity and become a sought-after choice for consumers. The Google Pixel Watch 2 boasts a winning combination of sleek design, seamless integration with Google's ecosystem, and a host of features that cater to the needs of modern users. Its user-friendly interface, reliable performance, and focus on health and fitness tracking make it an ideal companion for individuals seeking a well-rounded smartwatch experience. With Google's commitment to innovation and their vast resources, we anticipate that the Pixel Watch 2 will only improve and become even more appealing as time goes on. The watch's ability to seamlessly connect with other Google devices and services will further solidify its position as a top contender in the wearable technology market. In conclusion, the Google Pixel Watch 2 is poised to make a significant impact and maintain its popularity in 2024, offering users a compelling combination of style, functionality, and the power of Google's ecosystem.

Garmin Venu 3

Model breakdown

The Garmin Venu 3 is a GPS smartwatch that offers a range of advanced health and fitness features, making it an ideal companion for those looking to track and improve their overall well-being. With its AMOLED touchscreen display, users can enjoy a bright and colorful viewing experience. One of the standout features of the Venu 3 is its impressive battery life, lasting up to 14 days on a single charge. This ensures that users can rely on the watch to keep up with their active lifestyle without the need for frequent charging.

For fitness enthusiasts, the Venu 3 offers a comprehensive set of tools and insights. It includes over 30 built-in sports apps, allowing users to track their activities and workouts with ease. The watch can monitor heart rate, respiration, stress levels, and energy levels 24/7, providing users with a holistic view of their overall health. The Venu 3 also includes features such as workout benefits, recovery time, and personalized sleep coaching, helping users optimize their fitness routines and improve their sleep patterns.

In addition to its fitness capabilities, the Venu 3 offers convenience with its built-in speaker and microphone, enabling users to make and take phone calls and text messages directly from their wrist. The watch also features a range of other useful functionalities, including tracking steps, calories burned, and floors climbed.

Overall, the Garmin Venu 3 is a feature-rich smartwatch that combines advanced health and fitness tracking with convenient everyday functionalities. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or simply someone looking for a stylish and functional smartwatch, the Garmin Venu 3 is sure to impress with its impressive specifications and user-friendly interface.

Our opinion

The Garmin Venu 3 is an exceptional smartwatch that has undoubtedly made a lasting impression in the world of wearable technology. Looking ahead to 2024, we are confident that this watch will continue to be a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts and individuals seeking a comprehensive tracking experience. The Garmin Venu 3 combines a sleek and stylish design with a wide range of features that cater to the needs of active users. Its accurate GPS tracking, advanced health monitoring capabilities, and extensive workout options make it a reliable companion for those striving to achieve their fitness goals. Garmin's dedication to providing intuitive user interfaces and robust software updates ensures that the Venu 3 will remain at the cutting edge of innovation. With its long battery life and durable construction, the Garmin Venu 3 is built to withstand the demands of an active lifestyle. As fitness and wellness continue to be priorities for many individuals, we believe that the Garmin Venu 3 will remain popular in 2024 due to its ability to empower users, enhance their workouts, and provide valuable insights into their health and well-being.

TicWatch Pro 5

Model breakdown

The TicWatch Pro 5 is a highly capable smartwatch that offers a range of impressive technical specifications. With dimensions of 50.1mm (H) x 48.0mm (L) x 12.2mm (D) and a weight of 44.3g, it strikes a balance between functionality and wearability. Available in Obsidian and Sandstone colors, the watch case is made of metal and 7000-series aluminum, ensuring durability and a premium look.

One notable feature of the TicWatch Pro 5 is its battery life. Thanks to its new fast charging technology and a 628mAh battery, this smartwatch boasts an astonishing 80 hours of battery life. This means that users can enjoy the watch's features and functionalities for an extended period without having to worry about frequent recharging.

In terms of performance, the TicWatch Pro 5 is powered by the Qualcomm platform chipset, which ensures smooth and efficient operation. This allows users to navigate through apps, receive notifications, and track their fitness activities seamlessly. Speaking of fitness, the watch offers a range of health-tracking features, including heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and activity tracking. This makes it an excellent companion for those looking to stay on top of their fitness goals.

Additionally, the TicWatch Pro 5 includes Wear OS, providing users with access to a wide range of apps and features to enhance their smartwatch experience. Whether it's checking messages, controlling music, or using voice commands with Google Assistant, the TicWatch Pro 5 offers convenience and versatility.

Overall, the TicWatch Pro 5 combines style, functionality, and an impressive battery life. With its durable construction, advanced features, and seamless performance, it is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a reliable and feature-packed smartwatch.

Our opinion

The TicWatch Pro 5 is a standout smartwatch that has captured our attention with its impressive blend of style and functionality. As we peer into the future and anticipate 2024, we firmly believe that the TicWatch Pro 5 will continue to be a popular choice among tech enthusiasts and individuals seeking a reliable and feature-rich wearable. The watch's sleek design, intuitive user interface, and extensive range of features make it an appealing option for users looking for a versatile smartwatch experience. With its robust fitness tracking capabilities and long-lasting battery life, the TicWatch Pro 5 is well-equipped to keep up with the demands of an active lifestyle. Furthermore, its compatibility with both Android and iOS devices ensures that it remains accessible to a wide range of users. In a rapidly evolving market, Mobvoi's commitment to innovation and its track record of delivering quality products gives us confidence that the TicWatch Pro 5 will remain popular in 2024. Its ability to seamlessly integrate with various apps and services and its focus on user experience make it a compelling choice for individuals who value both style and functionality in a smartwatch.

Huawei Watch 4

Model breakdown

The Huawei Watch 4 is a cutting-edge smartwatch that boasts a range of impressive technical specifications. With a sleek design and advanced features, this watch is perfect for tech enthusiasts and fashion-forward individuals alike. The dimensions of the Huawei Watch 4 are 46.2 mm × 46.2 mm × 10.9 mm, making it a compact and comfortable fit for most wrists. The watch weighs approximately 48 g, excluding the strap, ensuring that it is lightweight and easy to wear throughout the day.

One of the standout features of the Huawei Watch 4 is its display. With a size of 1.5 inches and a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels, the AMOLED display provides crisp and vibrant visuals, with a density of approximately 310 ppi. This ensures that users can enjoy an immersive and visually pleasing experience when interacting with the watch.

Under the hood, the Huawei Watch 4 runs on HarmonyOS 3.0, a powerful and intuitive operating system developed by Huawei. Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 chipset, this watch delivers smooth performance and efficient multitasking capabilities. With 32GB of internal storage and 2GB of RAM, users have ample space to store their favorite apps, music, and more.

In terms of connectivity, the Huawei Watch 4 supports HSPA and LTE networks, allowing users to stay connected wherever they go. It is equipped with 2G, 3G, and 4G bands, ensuring reliable and fast internet access. Additionally, the watch is water-resistant, making it suitable for everyday use and even light swimming.

The Huawei Watch 4 is packed with a range of sensors, including an accelerometer, heart rate monitor, and thermometer. These sensors allow users to track their fitness and health metrics accurately and conveniently. The watch also features a 530mAh battery that can be charged wirelessly, providing users with extended usage time.

Overall, the Huawei Watch 4 is a feature-rich and stylish smartwatch that combines advanced technology with a sleek design. From its compact dimensions and vibrant display to its powerful performance and fitness-tracking capabilities, this watch offers a complete package for tech-savvy individuals who value both form and function.

Our opinion

The Huawei Watch 4 is undeniably a standout smartwatch that effortlessly combines style, functionality, and technological prowess. In our opinion, this timepiece is set to remain popular well into 2024 and beyond. Its sleek design, vibrant display, and a wide array of features make it an appealing choice for tech-savvy individuals who value both fashion and innovation. With its advanced health tracking capabilities, seamless connectivity, and long-lasting battery life, the Huawei Watch 4 offers a comprehensive smartwatch experience that caters to the needs of modern users. Moreover, Huawei's commitment to continuous improvement and its track record of delivering high-quality products instills confidence that the Watch 4 will continue to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing demands of the market. As wearable technology becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, we believe that the Huawei Watch 4 will remain a sought-after choice, providing users with a sophisticated and reliable companion for years to come.

So, which smartwatch is the best?

As you might have suspected from our introduction to this list, this is a question that nobody can answer. Akin to how you can’t answer what movie is the best movie, or which house is the best to live in, a word like “best” is entirely up to interpretation, and differs from person to person. 

What we can say is that all the models mentioned above are good enough, to be considered the best option for somebody out there - and we believe our list has provided enough information about each model to make that decision yourself.