Smartwatches are a hot commodity today. With so many to choose from, it can be difficult to understand the difference between smartwatch models and which one is best for your needs.
This article will help you understand what a smartwatch is and how it works, and give you some tips on how to choose the perfect watch for your lifestyle.
The smartwatch is a wearable device that has many functions. It can measure time, notify you about calls and messages, trigger a camera shutter on your phone, track your activity (how far you walk or run), monitor the weather, read e-mails, control music on your phone – basically act like any other device, but in the form of a wristband.
Various types of smartwatches available in the market today
The smartwatches as we know them today first hit the scene in September 2014 when Samsung launched its Galaxy Gear smartwatch. One of the main factors taken into account by consumers was price.
Today there are different types of watches that may suit your needs:
- Mainly for fitness – If you’re looking for a watch that tracks your activity and offers fitness-related features, you’ll want a fitness-based watch. These watches usually have GPS or heart rate monitors, so they can track your activity better than other watches.
- Mainly for messaging / calling – Smartwatches that mainly focus on messaging and calling options will give you the ability to read incoming notifications, accept or decline calls, and send pre-written text messages or voice memos. These smartwatches tend to have larger screens, so they’re easier to spot in low light
- Mainly for timing – There are smartwatches that do not have extensive smartwatch functions. Instead, they focus more on the clock face and the ability to measure time accurately.
How to choose the perfect watch for yourself
A smartwatch is a combination of a wristwatch and a smartphone, equipped with an electronic display or LCD touch screen. It can also be a computerized watch with functions beyond timing, for example with a heart rate monitor, GPS locator and network access.
Features you may want to consider:
- Size: Do you need a small watch or a large screen? What size fits your arm? Larger screens are better for showing photos and displaying more detailed information. Smaller screens might be better for those who only want basic information.
- Settings: Do you want to set alarms and check what time it is without having to take your phone out of your pocket? Or maybe you just need an analog timing dial. There are watches that can show weather information, notifications and much more.
- Durability: Does the watch have to be waterproof? This is important if you are looking for smartwatches for kids or for outdoor sports such as hiking or biking.
- Watch battery life; some smartwatches last only one day, others can last much longer. Take this into account when choosing a model.