11 Best Smartwatches for Men 2023, Tested by Experts

Like all high-tech products, smartwatches are complex devices. They’re essentially miniature computers made ultra-portable—portable enough to strap to your wrist. Even most entry-level models under $150 offer decent health and fitness tracking features, while flagship models from the likes of Suunto and Garmin provide near-medical-grade metrics, including heart rate tracking, blood oxygen levels, recovery data, and more, that are perfect for giving high-level athletes a competitive edge. Whatever features you’re looking for, there’s a smartwatch model that’s right for you. Here are a few of the most important considerations when shopping for the best smartwatches.

Compatibility

Above all else, you’ll want to be sure that any smartwatch you’re considering is compatible with your smartphone. Some only play nice with Apple’s iOS, some with Android, and others work with both. Smartwatches running Google’s Wear OS are a great compromise because they tend to work (mostly) well with both operating systems. One thing to note is that Wear OS does technically work with iOS, but some features may be disabled or unavailable.

Comfort

Most users are buying a smartwatch with the intention of wearing it all day and possibly to track their sleep at night too. So, you’ll want to be sure that the band and overall design are comfortable. Of course, the only way to know for sure is to test it out yourself. That’s why it’s important to shop etrailers (like many Amazon products) that provide free shipping and free return shipping. This is essentially a free in-home trial.

Smartwatch bands are available in a wide range of materials. Sportier models are typically synthetic, like silicon, as it’s grippy, rugged, and waterproof. But, they can look a little cheap. If you’re looking for something a bit more stylish, keep an eye toward stainless steel or leather options. Just know that these may not last quite as long as silicon.

Battery Life

We recommend shopping only for watches with a minimum 24-hour battery life. That way, you can charge yours overnight (assuming you’re not planning to track your sleep). Having to charge your smartwatch in the middle of the day, every day, gets old. Plus, most mid-range and all premium smartwatches offer at least 24 hours of battery life or a low-power mode that provides for days of extended battery life.

Durability and Water-Resistance

Most smartwatches on the market are durable enough for all-day wear. If you’re particularly tough on your gear or are planning on hardcore workouts, though, you may want to consider a multisport watch with a hardened Gorilla Glass screen. Many smart watches also offer some form of water-resistance (e.g., able to survive splashes or quick submersion). However, not all are fully waterproof (built for snorkeling, diving, and extended submersion underwater). Check the manufacturer’s specs to confirm just how water-resistant (or not) your potential smartwatch is.