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Smartwatch purchasing advice: how to choose the right product
- The most important facts in brief
- Whether for shopping, business meetings or jogging – smartwatches are practical everyday companions that combine the functional spectrum of fitness trackers and smartphones.
- The wearables inform about incoming calls and text messages via Bluetooth connection with the smartphone. If the model is equipped with a SIM card slot, the user can even make phone calls and write and receive text messages directly via the watch.
- They create sleep analyses, count the steps taken and measure the pulse to keep consumers constantly informed about their fitness level.
- Users can also access Facebook posts and current weather information via the smart watch.
Smartwatches – the mini-computer on your wrist
Be it as an alarm clock in the morning, as an MP3 player on the way to the office or as a heart rate monitor during the evening sports session: smartwatches are extremely practical devices that serve us well in many situations and areas of our everyday lives. As an ideal complement to the smartphone, they combine a multitude of functions in a single device that fits on the wrist to boot. It is an intelligent electronic wristwatch that is connected to the smartphone via a wireless interface to expand its range of functions. Visually, the so-called wearables resemble standard wristwatches with a touch-sensitive display, but inside they are equipped with a microprocessor, an operating system, a memory and a battery as well as a number of sensors.
Compared to a wristwatch, smartwatches show only the current time: they inform about incoming calls, text messages and e-mails and offer many useful fitness features. With a glance at their smartwatch, users receive information from the internet, such as news tickers or the current weather report, and are alerted to new messages by means of vibration or a signal tone. Typical health and fitness functions include a sleep tracker, pedometer and heart rate monitor. In combination with a navigation app and a GPS function, the smart watches finally become digital signposts. In addition to their added value as fitness trackers, they also offer a variety of multimedia functions, so that they satisfy sports fans as well as technology enthusiasts. With an integrated phone chip, they even function completely independently, which means they are increasingly competing with the smartphone.
The smartwatch boom: what’s behind the hype?
As early as 1946, the comic hero and police inspector Dick Tracy wore a so-called “2-Way Wrist Radio” on his arm, which evolved into the “2-Way Wrist TV” 18 years later. In 1979, a “Wrist Communicator” for teleportation appeared in Star Trek. K.I.T.T.”, the legendary car from the 80s cult series Knight Rider, was also connected to its owner via a wristwatch. And in the animated series The Simpsons, a character in the future wears an auspicious gadget on his wrist that can be used to make phone calls and text. While communication via a wristwatch was still a thing of the future a few decades ago, nowadays such wristwatches are no longer unusual.
The first smartwatch (the SPOT watch from Microsoft) appeared on the scene at the beginning of the 2000s and was primarily intended to display information from the Internet, such as the current weather report, as well as text messages and calls. Gradually, features such as fitness sensors and customisable operating concepts were added, expanding the smartwatch into a fitness tracker and MP3 player. With the increasing range of products, new designs were also added: in addition to the classic square format, smartwatches are now also available in round shapes. The standards are still in a constant state of change and are constantly adapting to the demands of modern consumers. In the meantime, several well-known manufacturers share the smartwatch market. According to Statista, market leader Apple sold 3.4 million devices worldwide in the second quarter of 2017. Samsung follows far behind with 800,000 and Garmin with 600,000 devices.
Affordable gadget or high-priced luxury item?
In addition to the well-known technology giants such as Sony, Samsung, LG, Apple, Motorola, ASUS and Garmin, well-known watch manufacturers such as Casio, Fossil, Breitling and Chronos are also launching smartwatches on the market. But what does a good smartwatch cost? While entry-level models are available for as little as 100 euros, for example the LG G Watch, the Apple Watches start at 400 euros. To ensure that you are always supplied with software updates and system improvements, it pays to buy from a well-known manufacturer. Models priced below 50 euros are generally not advisable, as they are usually cheap copies of high-priced models. At prices between 150 and 250 euros, you can already find adequate watches, such as the Samsung Gear S3 Classic or the Garmin vivoactive. The popular LG Watch Urbane, for example, can be found in the mid-price range from 250 to 400 euros, and the Apple Watch Series 4 in the premium segment from 400 euros.
Smart watches for leisure, sport and office: the types
Whether as a tracker for sporting activities, as a companion in everyday work or simply as a stylish accessory – depending on preference and intended use, a different smartwatch is suitable. In the meantime, three main types have emerged:
The classics: smartwatches for beginners and the style-conscious
Inexpensive smartwatches in the entry-level segment, such as the LG G Watch, are only equipped with basic functions like a timer and an alarm clock. They can be paired with the smartphone via Bluetooth to inform users about incoming notifications such as emails, Facebook news and calls. Their advantage: thanks to the limited range of functions, the battery usually lasts several weeks.
High-priced brand models not only have excellent technical features, but also impress with high-quality materials and elegant designs. With them, users can also attend business dinners or go to the opera. The touch display of classic smartwatches is usually somewhat larger and has a higher resolution than fitness smartwatches – much to the detriment of battery life: they have to be plugged in almost every day. Since there is a large selection of digital watch faces as well as interchangeable wristbands, ranging from silicone bands to metal bands, the design can be adapted to suit the occasion and taste. Friends of the classic analogue watch reach for the so-called hybrid smartwatch with real hands, solid dials and the features of a smartwatch. There is a small display inside the analogue dial.
Classic smartwatches are recommended for anyone who is looking for a practical everyday companion and a high-quality designer watch in one. Representatives of these stylish all-rounders include the Apple Watch, the Sony Smartwatch 3 and the Samsung Gear.
The sporty ones: Smartwatches for active people
Those who are active in sports and are looking for a digital companion for training that tracks activities and evaluates successes need a smartwatch with special sports functions. These include an integrated GPS sensor that determines the location, records the running or cycling routes covered and serves as a navigation device at the same time. Sporty models often have a waterproof housing that, depending on the IP protection class, can not only withstand the daily shower or rain, but can also be immersed in water. However, most smartwatches are only IP67 rated, which means they should not be kept under water.
Smartwatch vs. fitness wristband
Many consumers ask themselves whether they should reach for the high-priced smartwatch or the cheaper fitness wristband. Fitness trackers usually only offer a few functions such as a pedometer or heart rate monitor. Smartwatches, on the other hand, have more applications, such as phone or multimedia functions.
Fitness smartwatches count steps and calories, show the running speed, measure the heartbeat and indicate the sleeping time. The records motivate the user to intensify his or her sporting activities or warn him or her of too much exertion. Fitness enthusiasts can also create an individual workout via the connection to a smartphone app. Due to the numerous features, the batteries usually only last a few days.
Smartwatches with sports features are suitable for anyone who regularly uses fitness apps such as Runtastic but does not want to be dependent on taking their smartphone with them. For unrestricted use of all services and functions, carrying the mobile phone is still relevant, as long as the watch does not have its own SIM card. Ideal for fitness training are the sports models from Apple or Fitbit, but also the Gear Fit from Samsung and the Garmin Forerunner 235.
The independents: smartwatches for the all-round carefree package
There are smartwatches with and without a SIM card slot. Without a SIM card, a connection to the smartphone is necessary, which is usually established via Bluetooth or NFC so that the user can access smartphone features. Models with an integrated SIM card slot, on the other hand, make it possible to use phone calls and internet functions independently of the smartphone or WLAN. For this, however, they require a mobile phone contract in which a monthly fee is agreed, or a multi-SIM option. SIM card users receive a fixed data volume and a certain number of free minutes or free text messages. In addition to the phone and messaging function, it is also possible to use social networks, review fitness data and stream music. Another option is to buy a prepaid card and insert it into the smartwatch and recharge it regularly.
Smartwatches with a SIM card are ideal, for example, for business users who want to be up to date with a quick, unobtrusive glance at their wrist and who also want to surf the Internet, navigate or make phone calls on the go without a smartphone. However, these watches cannot be considered a smartphone replacement: Their screens are too small to be able to use them comfortably on a permanent basis. In addition, only a small battery fits in the housing, which is usually only enough for one day. Examples of smartwatches for stand-alone surfing and phoning are the Apple Watch Series 3 and the Huawei Watch 2.
The system question: user interfaces for iOS, Android and co.
Just as with the smartphone, the question of the right operating system or compatibility with the various smartphone manufacturers also arises with the smartwatch before purchase – because not every watch can be coupled with one’s own mobile phone or at least only with a very limited range of functions. The user interfaces of smartwatches are usually based on the operating systems of smartphones. Some models, however, have software developed specifically for the device. While the choice for Apple and especially Android devices is satisfactory, it is modest for less common smartphone operating systems such as Windows 10 Mobile or Blackberry OS.
Apple Watch OS
The Apple Watch runs the specially developed watchOS operating system, which can only be paired with iPhones. Devices from the iPhone 5 with version iOS 8.2 are generally compatible. However, no connection is possible with Android devices. The operating system impresses with its simple, fluid operation, which is facilitated by the voice assistant Siri, among other things, as well as a constantly growing selection of apps.
Wear OS
Android users have the widest choice in the current smartwatch market. The Wear OS operating system, previously known as Android Wear, works perfectly with Android smartphones from version 4.3. Whether LG, Huawei or Sony – it basically runs on all smart watches. Even Apple devices are welcome, albeit with a limited range of functions. Google’s operating system is considered clear and intuitive to use. As with Apple, intelligent voice recognition, namely Google Now, is also integrated. In addition, the manufacturer provides regular updates and bug fixes.
Tizen
With Tizen, Samsung has also released its own smartwatch operating system. Ideally, Android (from 4.4) is installed on the smartphone, but the connection to an iPhone also works, at least to a limited extent. The operating system is particularly popular because of its clarity. Although there are not yet as many apps as for WatchOS or Wear OS, the most important applications have been ported.
Pepples OS
Pepples Watches are among the first smartwatches. Their advantage: they can be connected to all smartphone operating systems, even Windows Phone. In addition, they have an extremely versatile range of functions with a clear sorting at the same time. Despite extensive compatibility, there is only a limited range of functions. However, the most important apps are still available.
Sporty or elegant? Appearance and handling of smartwatches
Ideally, a smartwatch is not only functional, but also looks good. When it comes to design, however, opinions differ. Whether square or round, small or large, metal or leather – since the smartwatch is a status symbol that is always worn on the arm, the appearance is even more important than with the smartphone. Depending on taste, some consumers prefer a sporty look, while others go for a classy style. In addition, the design always has an effect on the handling.
Aluminium, silicone and co.: the material
An important decision criterion before buying a watch is the material of the case and the wristband. The case material should be as robust and well-made as possible so that the watch does not die quickly. The strap material should be such that the watch fits perfectly on the wrist.
Robust, hard-wearing and waterproof: the case materials
The material used has an impact on the feel and robustness of the smartwatches:
- Aluminium: The light and at the same time extremely durable material is robust against shocks and impacts.
- Stainless steel: This material, which is also very resistant, can withstand mechanical stresses without any problems, but is somewhat heavier.
- Carbon: The less resistant but nevertheless robust material is long-lasting with the right care and on top of that particularly light.
- Plastic: The relatively soft material is more susceptible to scratches and scuffs and also appears less high-quality.
Since consumers wear their smartwatch on their arm every day, it comes into permanent contact with dirt or moisture. Therefore, in addition to the type of material, the dust and water resistance of the housing is also important. This can be seen from the IP code, which consists of two digits: While the first indicates the dust protection (from 0 to 6), the second refers to the water resistance (from 0 to 8). Here, the higher the digits, the better the protection. Smartwatches with the protection factor IP68 thus offer the highest possible dust and water protection. For surfing, swimming and diving or other outdoor activities, the watch should have a water resistance level of 8. Specifications such as “splash-proof” or “waterproof”, on the other hand, are less reliable.
Strap, change: The strap materials
Be it leather, stainless steel or silicone – the materials of the wristbands determine, among other things, their stability and appearance:
- Leather: The classic is available in various shades and usually provides an elegant look. However, as it becomes cracked due to prolonged wear and brittle due to moisture, it requires regular care.
- Stainless steel: Bracelets made of stainless steel not only look stylish, but are also robust and hard-wearing. However, they do not adapt as flexibly to the wrist and are more susceptible to scratches.
- Silicone: The particularly soft and elastic plastic comes in various colours. However, silicone wristbands cannot compete with the robustness of metal and do not fit the wrist perfectly.
- For users to feel comfortable, the wristband should feel good on the skin and not scratch. Some smartwatches, such as the Apple Watch, now offer the option of changing the wristband. With interchangeable straps, users can vary materials and colours according to their mood, for example the silicone strap for sport and the stainless steel strap for going out.
Smart through technology: the display
As the heart of the Smartwatch, the display has a decisive influence on wearing and operating comfort as well as on image quality. Criteria such as shape, size, technology and resolution are responsible for the appearance of the watch on the one hand, and its usability on the other.
From dainty to pompous: the size
The size of the screen has an effect on the visibility of the display on the one hand and on the appearance and wearing comfort on the other. The smartwatch screen should be large enough so that all the information can be easily read, but also not too bulky so that the watch does not look out of place on the wrist and can be worn comfortably. To fit ideally on the wrist, some watches (especially from the sports sector) have an ergonomically curved display. Most smartwatches are equipped with a relatively large screen so that users can easily read all the information. Usually, the displays have a diagonal between 1.2 and 1.8 inches, which means between 3 and 4.57 centimetres. Although there are also 2.5-inch displays, people with slender forearms are not well advised to use them. The display sizes roughly correspond to those of analogue or digital watches.
LCD or AMOLED? The technology
As with smartphones, smartwatches also use different display technologies. Some Pebble models still have a so-called e-paper display, which only works with a certain range of colours. More modern watches, on the other hand, use LC or OLED or AMOLED displays.
LCD
Liquid Crystal Displays do not shine independently, but filter the light in a certain way. Although the backlighting required for this makes for higher power consumption than with AMOLED displays, it achieves such a high level of brightness that the screens can be read without any problems in sunlight. Their good readability is also due to the clearly defined pixel structure. This ensures that the pixels do not become blurred and thus creates a particularly sharp image.
(A)MOLED
OLED displays (Organic Light Emitting Diode) impress with their brilliant colours and good readability. Their technical advancement is also known as AMOLED (Active-Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode). Unlike LC displays, the diodes on the active matrix light up independently in the primary colours red, green and blue. AMOLED screens are characterised by their vivid colours, high contrast and deep black levels as well as good viewing angle stability. Since they do not have a backlight, power consumption is lower than with LC displays, but they are also less bright and not as durable. Overall, however, the colour scheme appears friendlier and more modern.
Sharp, sharper, 300 ppi: the resolution
To optimally display all data, be it photos, videos or texts, a high display resolution is necessary. This indicates how many pixels, i.e. image points, the display can show. Due to the rather small screens, the pixel density is particularly relevant, which is specified in pixels per inch (ppi). For the same resolution, a smaller display has a higher pixel density than a larger screen. Most smartwatches have a pixel density of between 225 and 330 pixels per inch, whereby the latter value ensures a razor-sharp and particularly realistic display. A resolution of at least 300 pixels per inch is required for sufficient screen sharpness. A lower resolution results in so-called staircase formation or grid optics, in which the individual pixels can be seen. Basically, the higher the pixel density, the higher the resolution. However, a high resolution also results in higher power consumption.
Come time, come wheel? The controls
Depending on the operating system, manufacturers rely on a different solution with regard to the operating elements. Most models are equipped with a touch display. Android, for example, relies primarily on swipe gestures with the Wear OS. However, a touchscreen is not always standard: some also have buttons for navigating through the menu and for functions. Other manufacturers combine a touchscreen with various function keys. Apple’s WatchOS has a crown, i.e. a rotating wheel, while the Samsung Gear S2 relies on a bezel. The following controls are usually found on smartwatches:
- Touchscreen: The touch-sensitive screen is considered the most important operating element. Comparable to smartphones, users control most functions via various gestures, such as swiping, tapping, holding and rotating.
- Buttons: Separate buttons are often attached to the sides of the housing as additional operating elements. This is, for example, a home button that leads to the start menu.
- Bezel: This ring around the dial controls various functions. By turning the bezel, users can scroll through the menu or skip music tracks.
- Wheel: The rotating wheel on the side, reminiscent of analogue watches, is used for zooming in and out when viewing pictures or reading texts, for example, or for scrolling quickly through the menu.
Memory, battery and co.: features
The more extensive the features, the more possibilities the Smartwatch offers. Basically, it is the reduced, but still full-fledged hardware of a smartphone, including processor, memory and battery as well as various reception technologies. So what is important when buying a smartwatch and what technology should be built in?
The processor
The processor ensures that the Smartwatch performs even complex tasks quickly and easily. However, since the smartphone carries out the majority of the computing tasks, the performance only plays a subordinate role. A dual core processor with a clock frequency of 1.5 gigahertz is usually sufficient. Both the clock frequency and the number of cores have an impact on speed. While the clock frequency indicates how many computing steps the processor can perform per second, the number of cores determines how high the maximum load is.
The working memory
The main memory contains all data relevant to the programmes and functions currently being executed. The larger it is, the more processes can be executed simultaneously. Usually, the size of the main memory is between 512 megabytes and 1.5 gigabytes, whereby the former value is completely sufficient.
The internal memory
The amount of data that can be stored on the device, from contact lists to emails and music, depends on the internal memory. While 512 megabytes of RAM are sufficient (one gigabyte would be better), the internal memory should be able to hold between four and eight gigabytes. In the meantime, there are even storage capacities of 16 gigabytes, which rival even smartphones. With smartwatches, however, it is usually not possible to expand the integrated memory with an SD card.
The battery
Smartwatches rely on a battery that users need to charge regularly. Since the battery life depends on the usage as well as the brightness setting, it varies on average between 18 and 72 hours. Modern watches last up to a week with normal use. In order to get through everyday life well, a battery life of 48 hours should be achievable. The charging capacity is given in milliampere hours (mAh): the higher the capacity, the longer the battery life. While a device with 1,000 milliamps can be used for several days, a device with 200 to 300 milliampere hours must be charged several times a day. Most smartwatches can be charged via a USB cable. However, some models also have an induction function, i.e. a charging station. In addition to a long battery life, it is also important that the charging time is as short as possible, i.e. a few hours.
The sensors
To be able to determine the pulse, steps and current location, smartwatches are equipped with numerous sensors. The accuracy of the sensor technology is particularly relevant for the fitness and sports functions. Some models even measure the temperature and air pressure for calculating the height above sea level or the weather forecast. Gyroscopes and acceleration sensors determine the position and movement of the watch. For example, the display switches on when movement is detected. An ambient light sensor also adjusts the brightness of the display to the lighting conditions. The quality of the sensors affects the precision of the display.
The direct line to the smartphone: connection types and interfaces
Most smartwatches only work in conjunction with a mobile phone. Through the pairing, it is possible to send information, such as the data of fitness apps, to the smartphone. Certain interfaces are necessary for data transmission. As a rule, the watches are equipped with Bluetooth, but some also have a WLAN function. The following interfaces are common:
- Bluetooth: With Bluetooth, data can be transmitted wirelessly between mobile devices within a certain range (usually ten metres). It is also possible to listen to music via a connection with Bluetooth headphones.
- WLAN: A WLAN interface makes it possible to access the Internet directly from the watch without a smartphone. However, they are always dependent on a WLAN network.
- NFC: Near field communication, also a radio standard for wireless data transmission, is only designed for distances in the centimetre range and is used in particular for mobile payment.
- SIM card: Smartwatches with a SIM card enable direct access to internet and telephony functions independent of the smartphone. The card is inserted into the SIM card slot and provides a certain degree of independence, especially when on the move.
- USB: The Smartwatch can be connected to a PC or laptop via a USB port and can also be charged at a power outlet. Mostly realised as a micro-USB socket, the input is located on the side of the housing.
The most important functions of the digital all-rounder
Before buying a smartwatch, it is important to check carefully whether the range of features includes all the desired functions. But which functions do the wearables usually have?
The phone functions
A smartwatch can be used to control the phone functions of the smartphone. Users can programme alarms, accept or make calls and view and send messages.
Alarm functions
An alarm function informs users of incoming calls and notifications. This is either an acoustic signal or a vibration. Practical: The vibration alarm is only noticeable to the wearer, so that those around him or her are not aware of it. This is particularly advantageous in meetings at work or when meeting friends, when it is considered inappropriate to constantly look at the mobile phone.
Calls
All smartwatches offer the possibility to view calls, as these are shown on the display. Some watches can also accept incoming calls. This helps users avoid the hassle of looking in their pocket for a ringing mobile phone. If they are equipped with a SIM card, users can even make calls directly from their wrist to contacts in the call list. For this, however, the watches need an integrated loudspeaker and a microphone. Better call quality is possible with the connection of headphones.
Messages
A smartwatch can also be used to receive text messages, emails and Whatsapp messages. Depending on the model, only the beginning of a message or the complete text is displayed. In some cases, it is also possible to reply to them. This works either by drawing the letters on the display or by a voice command. However, since writing messages on the small screens is somewhat awkward, there are often preset short messages or emojis.
Multimedia functions
Smartwatches also offer some interesting functions in the multimedia field. With them, the clever watches are not only fun leisure companions, but also serve as practical office gadgets.
Music, photo and video playback
With a smartwatch, the music playback of the smartphone can be conveniently controlled on the wrist. If no loudspeakers are integrated, it is possible to listen to the music in conjunction with Bluetooth headphones. The songs can be stored on the watch in MP3 format. It is also possible to play streaming services such as Spotify or Deezer. Photos and videos can also be shown on the display in full-screen mode. An integrated camera even allows snapshots and short videos.
Navigation
If the smartwatch has a GPS module, users can have the navigation to the desired destination displayed on the watch and be notified of a change in direction by vibration or voice output. Many models simply use the GPS function of the paired smartphone for this purpose. The precise GPS order indicates the exact location, the distance covered and the speed. Not only athletes, but also consumers who want to find their way in an unfamiliar area benefit from this function.
Voice control
The practical feature is particularly helpful when using search engines. Instead of typing the terms, users simply speak the question into the microphone, whereupon the integrated voice recognition software converts it into text. A voice assistant reminiscent of Siri makes control easier, as the time-consuming typing is no longer necessary. Users simply link specific voice commands with the actions to be triggered, such as calling a taxi, creating a note or adding a shopping list.
The fitness and health functions
Health and fitness features such as calorie counter, pedometer and heart rate monitor are extremely useful when creating and implementing fitness and nutrition plans.
Heart rate monitor
Heart rate measurement is one of the most important features in fitness. By monitoring the heart rate, it is possible to keep the effort during training within an optimal range. Athletes can thus recognise their stress limits and possibly avoid overexertion. The measurement is made via a small sensor on the underside of the watch, which rests directly on the skin. Although the smartwatches cannot keep up with a professional heart rate belt, they still provide useful values.
Pedometer
To count the steps taken, smart watches usually do not use the GPS module, but rather integrated movement sensors, also known as pedometers. In connection with the smartphone, the values can then be saved and evaluated. However, the steps counted should only be regarded as approximate values.
Distance and speed sensor
With the help of an integrated GPS module, the smartwatches measure the distance travelled, but these values should also only be regarded as an approximation of the distance actually travelled. By regularly determining the position at short intervals, the receiver can also calculate the average or maximum speed. With these functions, the user can, for example, evaluate a walking route, record it in the training diary or then share it in a group to compare notes and motivate each other.
Sleep tracker
Most models have a sleep tracker that checks the length and quality of sleep by sensors registering movement patterns during sleep and simultaneously evaluating the pulse and breathing. Users thus learn when and how long they were in a certain sleep phase. The Smartwatch then uses the data to produce statistics that help analyse sleep disorders.
Smart alarm
In addition to the sleep tracker, there is often a smart alarm, also called a sleep phase alarm. If a certain interval is set, for example between 6.30 and 7.00 a.m., the alarm only goes off when a light sleep phase falls within this interval. The vibration alarm is not only particularly gentle, but also prevents the other person in the bed from being woken up.
Calorie counter
On the one hand, smartwatches approximately count the calories consumed, for example by calculating the distance covered. On the other hand, users can enter all the calories they have consumed during the day. This makes the Smartwatch a useful aid in losing weight and motivates wearers to achieve their personal training goals.
