Buying Guide for the Best Smart Watches Under 100
When it comes to picking a smart watch, especially under a budget, it's important to focus on the features that matter most to you. Smart watches can offer a variety of functionalities, from fitness tracking to notifications and even some standalone apps. Understanding what you need from a smart watch will help you make the best choice. Here are some key specifications to consider and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.DisplayThe display is the screen of the smart watch where you interact with the device. It's important because it affects how easy it is to read notifications, track your fitness, and use apps. Displays can be LCD, OLED, or AMOLED. LCDs are generally less expensive and have good visibility in bright light, but they may not have the same color richness as OLED or AMOLED, which offer better contrast and more vibrant colors. If you plan to use your smart watch outdoors frequently, consider one with a bright and clear display.
Battery LifeBattery life determines how long your smart watch can operate before needing a recharge. This is crucial if you don't want to charge your watch every day. Battery life can range from a single day to several weeks, depending on the watch and how you use it. If you use GPS and other power-hungry features often, look for a watch with a longer battery life. For basic use, a watch with a few days of battery life should suffice.
Fitness TrackingFitness tracking features include heart rate monitoring, step counting, sleep tracking, and sometimes even GPS for tracking runs or bike rides. These features are important if you plan to use your smart watch to monitor your health and fitness. Basic fitness tracking is available on most smart watches, but if you need more advanced metrics like VO2 max or ECG, you might need to look for a more specialized device. Choose a watch with the fitness features that match your activity level and health goals.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to how well the smart watch works with your smartphone. This is important because it affects how you receive notifications, sync data, and use apps. Most smart watches are compatible with both Android and iOS, but some features might work better with one platform over the other. Make sure the smart watch you choose is fully compatible with your phone to get the best experience.
Water ResistanceWater resistance indicates how well the smart watch can withstand exposure to water. This is important if you plan to wear your watch while swimming, showering, or in the rain. Water resistance is usually measured in meters or ATM (atmospheres). A rating of 5 ATM or 50 meters is generally good for swimming, while lower ratings are suitable for splashes and rain. Choose a watch with the appropriate water resistance for your activities.
Build Quality and DesignBuild quality and design affect the durability and aesthetics of the smart watch. This is important because it determines how well the watch can withstand daily wear and tear and how it looks on your wrist. Materials like stainless steel, aluminum, and durable plastics are common. If you want a watch that looks stylish and can handle rough use, consider one with a robust build and a design that suits your personal style.
Notifications and AppsNotifications and apps allow you to stay connected and use various functionalities directly from your wrist. This is important if you want to receive messages, calls, and app alerts without taking out your phone. Some smart watches offer a wide range of apps and customizable notifications, while others might be more limited. Think about how you plan to use your smart watch and choose one that offers the right level of connectivity and app support for your needs.