10 Best Smart Watches 2025 in the United States

The Apple Watch Series 10 is a top-tier smartwatch that stands out with its enhanced display, advanced health features, and robust design. The larger screen offers up to 30% more display area, making it easier to interact with apps and notifications. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the comprehensive tracking capabilities, including an ECG app, sleep tracking, and various workout modes that cater to a wide range of activities, from swimming to yoga. Its 50m water resistance and durable construction make it suitable for active lifestyles and aquatic adventures.

Battery life is decent, with up to 18 hours of regular use and a low power mode that can extend this to 36 hours, although heavy users may find themselves recharging more frequently. The fast-charging feature is a plus, allowing for 80% charge in about 30 minutes. The watch integrates seamlessly with other Apple devices, which is a significant advantage for those already in the Apple ecosystem, providing easy access to features like Apple Pay and notifications.

On the downside, the Apple Watch Series 10 does require an iPhone (from Xs or later) for full functionality, limiting its appeal to non-Apple users. Additionally, while its array of fitness and health tracking features is impressive, some users may find the depth of data overwhelming or unnecessary. The design, while sleek and customizable, may not suit everyone’s taste or comfort.

The Apple Watch Series 10 is an excellent choice for Apple aficionados and fitness lovers who value advanced health insights and connectivity. Those outside the Apple world or who prefer a more simplified smartwatch experience might want to explore other options.

The Apple Watch Series 10 in the 42mm GPS version is a strong choice for anyone already in the Apple ecosystem, as it works seamlessly with iPhones running iOS 18 or later. Its always-on Retina display is bright and sharp, offering up to 30% more screen space than before, which makes interacting with apps and notifications easier. The design is noticeably thinner and lighter, ensuring comfortable everyday wear.

Fitness and health tracking are major highlights here. The watch supports a wide range of workouts, from running and swimming to yoga and even wheelchair exercises. It offers advanced health insights like ECG readings, sleep tracking with apnea detection, cycle tracking, and vital sign monitoring such as heart rate and respiratory rate. Safety features like fall and crash detection add peace of mind by connecting you to emergency services if needed. Battery life is rated at about 18 hours for typical use, which might require daily charging, but the fast-charging feature helps regain 80% battery in around 30 minutes—a practical touch. Water resistance up to 50 meters and dust resistance make it durable for swimming and outdoor activities.

Connectivity options include GPS, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, and support for Apple Pay, making it easy to stay connected and make payments on the go. The watch also offers good customization with various bands and watch faces to suit your style. The battery life may feel short if you use many features throughout the day, and it requires an iPhone to unlock its full potential, so it's not ideal for Android users. Additionally, the price point might be higher compared to other smartwatches with similar fitness tracking capabilities. This smartwatch is well suited for iPhone users wanting a stylish, health-focused device with plenty of smart features and strong safety tools, who do not mind charging it nightly.

The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is a solid choice for anyone looking for a smart watch that balances functionality with affordability. One of its standout features is its compatibility with other Apple devices, making it great for users already invested in the Apple ecosystem. With built-in GPS, it provides accurate tracking for workouts and outdoor activities, and its health features, including heart rate monitoring and fall detection, make it a reliable fitness companion. The water resistance up to 50 meters allows for swimming, which is a big plus for fitness enthusiasts.

The Retina display offers clarity and is easy to navigate, enhancing user experience. Battery life is reasonable for a smartwatch, generally lasting about a day with regular use. The customizable watch bands and faces add a personal touch, appealing to those who appreciate style alongside functionality.

There are a few downsides to consider. For non-Apple users, the device may not be as beneficial due to limited compatibility with non-Apple smartphones. Some users might find the battery life could be better, especially if they use more intensive features like GPS and health tracking regularly. Moreover, while the watch has a plethora of features, certain advanced health metrics are more available in the higher-end Apple Watch models.