The best iPhone smartwatch isn't always the Apple Watch. If you can afford a premium Apple Watch, definitely invest. However, if you're on a budget or don't like any of the options in the lineup, be aware that there are other options that pair well with the iPhone.
The Apple Watch is designed to work seamlessly with the iPhone, so you get the best when you pair them. The best smartwatches aren't limited to the Apple Watch, but some offer iOS/iPhone compatibility, and fitness-conscious iPhone users will appreciate the wide range of options.
We've reviewed and tested many smartwatches over the years and know which ones work best with the iPhone, including Tizen-based Samsung watches and Fitbit smartwatches. And we've collected the best of them here. Read on as we give you an overview, pros and cons, and a link to a full review of each item.
Remember, we've seen more Wear OS 3 watches lose iOS support. These include the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and 5 and the Google Pixel Watch. This means the watches below are running previous versions of Wear OS. If you stick with Wear OS 2 you lose some functionality, but it still works well with iPhone and offers a wider range of designs and styles.
Best smartwatches for iPhone 2023
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Hybrid smartwatches are the perfect compromise for those who want that smartwatch technology but still appreciate a traditional watch. Perhaps the Wing Scan Watch Horizon flipped the script and relegated the exercise to the background. However, when tested, it was found to be reliable when it comes to heart, blood oxygen, respiration, and EKG readings.
We found powerful heart and health tracking features in our testing, but we like its impressive battery life. If you're one of those who forgets to charge your device, this longevity will be a blessing.
Its retro look is also ideal for those bored with the ins and outs of using a smartwatch, its basic controls are useful but refreshingly simple and easy to use. Then again, it's also a big, heavy smartwatch, which some people might not like.
Read the full Withings ScanWatch Horizon review
How to choose the best connected watch for iPhone?
The best iPhone smartwatch is still the Apple Watch, but with multiple iPhone models available, you should always choose the one that best suits your needs and budget. Flagship models are more advanced than budget models, so check out the features.
If WatchOS isn't an option, consider a Wear OS watch. There are great compatible options that run Google's Wear OS or Samsung's Tizen. Wear OS smartwatches can also look very good compared to the Apple Watch. So if style trumps function, you can take it.
The Fitbits and hybrid wearables like the Wings are great smartwatches for iPhone users, so they're definitely worth considering. This is especially true if you are on a tight budget. All Fitbit smartwatches are incredibly affordable.
If you opt for a non-Apple Watch version, just like Apple Watches, be aware that the flagship models will have additional features. However, make sure you are sure about the functionality you are getting when paired with an iPhone. Our reviews should help you with that, but check out the smartwatch's features and specs.
How to test iPhone smartwatches
The process of using a smartwatch often involves using the device as our own wearable device. This is the best way to fully test it out and see how it works in the real world. Over the course of several days, we are going to take a look at its features, functionality, performance, battery life and ease of use.
Of course, since we want to know how it works and what features it has on the iPhone, we will also include it in our test. After gathering all the information and data we need, we compare smartwatch prices to see if it's the best value for our readers before making a recommendation.
Which smartwatch is best for iPhone users?
Most smartwatches track your basic health metrics like steps and calories, while devices with built-in GPS are ideal companions for running, biking, and swimming. Most of the watches here also sync, so you get notifications through the watch, so you don't have to pull out your phone as often.
