Waterproof Smartwatches Under Review
- Apple Watch Series 7 EDITORS CHOICE
- Willful Fitness Tracker Watch
- KOSPET Smart Watch
- Samsung Gear S3 Frontier Smartwatch
- Casio G-Shock GBA400-4A Classic Series
- Apple Watch Series 3
- COLMI Smart Watch
- Fitbit Versa Smart Watch
- Garmin 010-01338-2F Fenix 3 HR Sapphire
- 321OU Smart Watch
Smartwatches are gathering pace almost as quickly as smartphones these days, and one of the latest developments and improvements is in the waterproofing quality.
Whether you’re chilling at the beach, exploring the surroundings, or running, you want your smartwatch to be waterproof and rugged enough to cope with all your activities, as well as give you all the smart tech of course.
We’ll guide you through the best waterproof smartwatches on the market today and help you choose the one that’s right for you by breaking down the pros and cons of each. Bear in mind though that even though we generally refer to water resistance as waterproof, there is a distinct difference. If you want a truly ‘waterproof’ watch you might want to be looking at dive watches, where you can wear the watch to depths of 30m plus. Most of these watches (according to the manufacturer) allow you to swim whilst wearing them.
Review
Best Overall Waterproof Smartwatch
Apple Watch Series 7
The Apple Watch Series 7 is the best waterproof smartwatch for active outdoor enthusiasts, period. It has a larger display that is easier to use and read, is the most durable Apple Watch yet, and features breakthrough health innovations. It’s water-resistant up to 50 meters (although Apple does say that this is not a dive watch and should not be treated as such). It also measures your blood oxygen level and heart rate. The battery has greatly improved and charges up to 33% faster than the previous models.
For a smartwatch that’s so technologically advanced, Apple has done a great job in optimizing its toughness. It’s able to withstand most of the demands of outdoor adventure seekers.
It features an Always-On Retina display, is dust-resistant (IP6X certification), and is crack resistant. It also includes a heart rate sensor and accelerometer for fitness tracking.
The larger display makes it easier to use and read when guiding through rough terrain or communicating with others in your group to keep everyone on track. For the Series 7, Apple reduced the borders of the watch by 40%, allowing more screen area than both Series 6 and Series 3 – without increasing the watch face size (43mm vs 42mm).
Now, you no longer need to raise your wrist or touch the screen to see the time, because it is always on and 70% brighter indoors when your watch is not near your face. This makes for easy viewing in low-light conditions.
This ultra-durable design will take you anywhere – no matter what adventure you face – all while staying connected to the apps that keep you entertained and informed from morning til night. Plus it can take almost any punishment from your water sports.
The Series 7 is available in a variety of colors and styles and with or without a cellular connection.
In case of an accident – fall etc, the series 7 will send an automatic SOS message to emergency services to alert them of your situation. This is an amazing feature but bear in mind that if you have the GPS version of this watch, you will need your phone close by in order for this to work.
What makes it great
- Swimproof.
- Scratch resistant.
- Dust resistant.
- Bright, always-on display.
- Heart rate sensor and accelerometer.
- Emergency SOS capabilities.
- Large display.
- Make calls and reply to messages.
- Many watch and strap options.
Specifications
Weight | 32 grams |
Display | 41 / 45 mm |
Battery Life | upto 18hrs |
Styles | Many! |
Best Value Waterproof Smartwatch
Willful Fitness Tracker Watch
This smartwatch is what you need to keep track of your phone notifications without breaking the bank. It’s a rugged fitness tracker with a touchscreen for fast and easy access. The HD screen features high-quality graphics with an adjustable brightness so you can see every detail in the sun. It comes with multiple background choices to suit your taste.
Setting this smartwatch up is extremely easy so it’s a good choice for adults as well as teens. It’s compatible with iOS 8 and Android 4.4 or more so it’s almost compatible with every smartphone on the market.
You should, however, check the list of all the compatible phones to make sure that it will suit yours. You’ll receive calls, messages, and email notifications and you can actually read a message. However, you can’t make a call or reply to a text.
As a fitness tracker, it features 14 activity mode trackers so you can monitor your steps, heart rate, and sleep quality. It supports 14 different types of sports so it’s an excellent choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Moreover, it’s IP68 water-resistant so it won’t break down if you decide to go for a quick swim. Only 2 hours of charging are needed to keep your watch in standby mode for 30 days.
The battery will last up to 7 to 10 days, so you won’t have to recharge your watch when you’re on the go. There are also several added functions like the breath guide, female health tracker, do not disturb mode, and the flashlight.
You can adjust the music level on your phone, but it doesn’t feature speakers so you can’t use it to listen to your favorite tracks.
What makes it great
- Affordable and user-friendly watch.
- Adjustable brightness.
- Multiple sports modes.
- Fitness tracker with multiple health functions.
- Call, message, and email notifications.
- Water resistance to IP68 (can wear swimming)
Specifications
Weight | 6.7 ounces |
Display | 1.3in LCD |
Battery Life | Upto 10 Days |
Styles | 3 |
Best Waterproof GPS Watch
KOSPET Smart Watch
When you have no access to your smartphone, you can install a sim card to this smartwatch. You’ll be able to receive calls, read messages, make calls, and reply to messages and emails. You can also download apps from Google store or the Play store because the watch is compatible with Android and iOS phones.
You can connect it to your smartphone and have access to all its functions. Using the Bluetooth connection, you don’t have to hold your phone to use your favorite applications.
This watch is suitable for athletes and active people because it has a built-in GPS and Google Maps so you’ll be able to highlight your running or cycling track.
It’s IP68 waterproof so it won’t get damaged when you go running in the rain but it can’t be used for swimming or diving.
If you’re looking for a practical and customizable smartwatch, then this is the one to pick. Once you set the data in the mobile app, it will remind you to drink water, do eye exercises, go jogging or take your medicine on time. It’s a comprehensive fitness tracker that tracks your heartbeats, distance traveled, steps, and calories.
This is a highly customizable watch as you can change the themes to create something that suits you more. You can use it to play music while running or driving and it keeps you updated about the weather.
Moreover, it’s one of the few models that allow you to take photos and record videos. By pressing the shutter button you can activate this feature without having to use your smartphone. The magnetic charging makes your watch safer.
What makes it great
- Can be used with a sim card.
- Customizable themes.
- Compatible with Android and iOS.
- Download different apps.
- Activity and fitness tracker.
Specifications
Weight | 7.66 ounces |
Display | 1.54in 300 x 300 |
Battery Life | Standby time is 2-3 days. |
Styles | 3 |
Best Android Smartwatch
Samsung Gear S3 Frontier Smartwatch
This classic-looking watch provides access to all your phone functions only when you rotate the steel bezel to access apps and notifications. Thanks to the clear graphics, you’ll be able to access all the functions on your watch.
Although this is one of the best choices for Android phones, it’s also compatible with iOS 9 and above. It allows you to receive text messages and call notifications directly from your phone.
You can also make calls without having to touch your phone as it comes with a built-in speaker and microphone.
On a single charge, the battery can last up to 3 days so you can enjoy your time while camping or hiking. Once the power drops, you can use the wireless charger to keep your watch functional.
It’s resistant to water, dust, and extreme temperatures thanks to its rugged construction. It can also survive occasional drops so it’s the right choice for busy athletes.
You’ll never be out of reach as you can make online payments using the Samsung Pay wherever you are. You can also share your location using the built-in GPS whether you’re off the road or exploring a new destination.
It comes with the S-Health app that tracks your activity rate. You can track your fitness goals and check leaderboards to stay connected all the time. The band is rather wide and might make your wrist itch, especially if you sweat a lot but you can easily replace it.
What makes it great
- Suitable for Android and iOS phones.
- Receive and make calls.
- Wireless charging.
- Online payments.
- GPS location.
- S-Health app.
Specifications
Weight | 2.24 ounces |
Display | 1.3” super AMOLED full color display |
Battery Life | Upto 3 days with typical usage |
Styles | 1 |
Most Rugged Smartwatch
Casio G-Shock GBA400-4A Classic Series
You may be surprised to see a G-shock here but we felt it worthy of a mention. This is classed as a smartwatch as it allows you to use your phone as well as enjoy your favorite music while keeping track of your physical activity. All you need is to set it up and link it with any smart device via Bluetooth and it will be good to go.
It’s one of the most durable models on the market as it’s made of sturdy resin and shock-resistant mineral glass.
It won’t break when you’re working out or performing various activities because it’s designed to withstand heavy-duty use.
The watch is water-resistant up to 200 meters and features a bright LED light with selectable illumination duration. There’s also a flash buzzer with vibration for alerts. Once the battery is low, you’ll see a notification to recharge your watch.
You can easily activate the Hand Shift feature to move the hand out of the way so you can clearly see the digital content. The watch comes with the world time feature; featuring more than 100 cities with the ability to turn the daylight savings on and off. You can also control the music playing on your phone using this watch.
What makes it great
- Shock-resistant construction.
- Waterproof up to 200 meters.
- Bright LED light.
- Low battery notification.
- World time feature.
- Stopwatch.
Specifications
Weight | 2.08 ounces |
Display | 45mm Dia case, digital |
Battery Life | Typically 1-2 years |
Styles | 1 (huge choice of other G-shock styles) |
Best Value Smartwatch for IOS
Apple Watch Series 3
Answering your phone when your hands are full is never a problem when you have this watch. It’s the right choice for any Apple user as it grants full access to your phone functions without having to hold it with your hands.
As this is no longer the latest model from Apple, the Series 3 offers great value for money. You can receive calls, make calls, read messages, and reply to them, in addition to checking out all your social media accounts.
With the cellular feature, you don’t have to have your phone within the Bluetooth range as the watch functions on its own.
This watch allows you to use Siri for all your smart functions when the phone is out of your reach. At the same time, it works as a fitness tracker so you can keep track of your activity level. It also comes with a built-in GPS, which makes it a suitable choice for hikers and campers who usually go off the road.
Using the Digital Crown feature, you’ll be able to zoom in and out to explore the different navigation options. This makes this watch one of the most user-friendly models on the market. You won’t struggle to set it up or access the desired phone function.
This is a full fitness tracker that can also track your sleep pattern. It’s water-resistant up to 50 meters, but it won’t work for saltwater swimming or scuba diving. The battery doesn’t last for long but you can extend its life by putting the watch in night mode and this will make it last for a whole day when you’re away from home.
What makes it great
- Best value for iOS.
- Full access to phone calls, messages, emails, and social media accounts.
- Compatible with Siri.
- Digital Crown feature for easy navigation.
Specifications
Weight | 2.08 ounces |
Display | 42mm – 740sqmm OLED Retina |
Battery Life | Upto 18 hrs |
Styles | 4 |
COLMI Smart Watch
Thanks to the 1.3-inch touchscreen, you’ll be able to see all the details thanks to the HD display. The display is made of tempered glass that withstands heavy-duty use and wear-resistant metal case. It’s also scratch-resistant.
You can track your physical activity for up to 24 hours as the watch has optical sensors to monitor your blood pressure, oxygen levels, sleep patterns, and upload real-time data to your phone. The watch is IP68 waterproof so you can use it for swimming and other activities where your hands are likely to get wet.
The watch can help you monitor up to 7 exercise modes to stay fit. You can also connect the watch to the phone using the GPS to show your running pace and track. The watch is compatible with several operating systems so you can use it whether you have an iOS or Android phone.
When you’re wearing this smartwatch, you won’t have to hold your phone. There’s a call reminder, push notifications for calls, emails, SMS, Twitter, Facebook, Skype, and other applications that you need to use every day. You can also use the watch to access different time zones and play music.
With the sedentary reminder, the watch will remind you to walk around if you’ve been sitting for a while. You can also take photos and set the alarm on your watch.
Pairing the watch with your phone is a bit tricky. You’ll receive 2 straps with the watch but you can also change them later. There are 12 watch dials and you can easily customize the wallpaper to match your style.
What makes it great
- Lightweight smartwatch.
- Big display with HD details.
- Long battery that operations for up to 24 hours.
- 7 exercise modes.
- Make calls, reply to messages, and take photos.
- Customizable wallpaper.
Specifications
Weight | 2.56 ounces |
Display | 1.3in full touch screen |
Battery Life | Typically 30 days |
Styles | 1 |
Fitbit Versa Smart Watch
If you’re looking for a straightforward and durable smartwatch, then you should take a look at this one. It’s compatible with most types of smartphones and devices as it synchronizes with Mac OS X 10.6, iPhone 4S, iPad 3 generation, Android 5.0, and all the later versions, in addition to Windows 10 devices.
Using this smartwatch, you’ll be able to track all-day activities, including your sleep pattern, heart rate, swim laps, and floors climbed. It comes with a battery that lasts for more than 4 days.
This watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters. It also features more than 15 activity modes to record your workouts. You can get alerts for calls, messages, weather, and more.
It allows you to send quick replies if you’re using an Android device. The range is up to 6 meters away from your smartphone or device.
If you like to work out in extreme temperatures, then this is the right watch for you as it operates between -10° to 60° C. You can also access the Fitbit app for a female health tracker, store and play songs, and access your favorite Pandora stations and Deezer playlists.
If you don’t like the color of the wristband you can easily change it to match your style as there are multiple colors available on the market.
What makes it great
- Compatible with different operating systems.
- Full fitness tracker.
- Phone alerts.
- More than 15 activity modes.
- Fitbit app for more fitness notifications.
- Works in extreme temperatures.
Specifications
Weight | 7 ounces |
Display | 24sqmm |
Battery Life | Typically 4+ days |
Styles | 1 |
Garmin 010-01338-2F Fenix 3 HR Sapphire
This smartwatch allows you to track your heartbeat rate without wearing a chest strap so it’s what every athlete needs while working out. It’s resistant to discoloration and features a flexible yet durable silicone strap that you can wear all day long.
The Chroma display measures 1.2” and is sunlight-visible with high resolution so you can see all the details.
This watch is safe up to 100 meters underwater so it’s an excellent choice for swimmers. It’s rugged with a stainless steel bezel that withstands everyday use.
It features the EXO antenna that provides a more accurate location than GPS using the GLONASS and EPO. Once you pair it with the Connect IQ, you’ll be able to access multiple apps, widgets, data fields, and watch faces.
You’ll receive a notification whenever you receive a call or a text, but you can’t reply to either. However, you can see information from texts, emails, weather apps, and other important features that you need to access when you’re away from the phone.
However, it’s not the most user-friendly option on the market, so you’ll need time to learn how to use it properly.
This is a comprehensive fitness tracker with the ability to track your running track, altitude, and weight lifting activity. It also features a barometer which comes in handy if you’re planning to spend the night away from home.
What makes it great:
- Fitness tracker.
- Accurate location.
- Wi-Fi synchronization.
- Call and message alerts.
- Large Chroma display.
Specifications
Weight | 3.2 ounces |
Display | 1.2-inch sunlight-readable Garmin Chroma Display |
Battery Life | up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode |
Styles | 6 |
321OU Smart Watch
This smartwatch comes at an affordable price. It’s made of stainless steel with an anti-sweat matte surface with an ergonomic convex design. The soft strap is more comfortable to wear so you can use your watch to access all your phone functions.
It features the dual operating mode so you can connect the smartwatch to your phone using Bluetooth. Once connected, you can make phone calls, reply to texts, and view different app notifications.
You can also insert a sim card into the smartwatch where it can do the function of a phone. You can make phone calls directly from the watch, take pictures, and play music.
Automatic synchronization allows you to access different social media apps to stay connected all the time. You can also use an SD card to view images, play music, and make records. The 1.3-inch screen allows you to see all the details in excellent quality.
The multi activity tracker allows you to monitor your physical activity while wearing the watch. There’s a mileage counter, calories counter, pedometer, and sleep monitor so you can stay in excellent shape.
The battery life is decent and can support more than 24 hours of operation.
It’s rather large, so it may not suit you if you have tiny wrists.
Whether you have an Android or iPhone, you can use this watch because it’s compatible with most smartphones on the market.
It’s water-resistant so you don’t have to take it off while performing different tasks, but it doesn’t suit swimmers. It doesn’t have sport-specific trackers.
What makes it great:
- Lightweight and affordable smartwatch.
- Dual operation mode.
- Automatic synchronization.
- Take pictures
- Sturdy design with a soft strap.
- Activity tracker.
Specifications
Weight | 3.84 ounces |
Display | 1.3in colored display |
Battery Life | up to 24hrs |
Styles | 5 |
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What can Smartwatches Do?
Smartwatches are different from regular watches because they allow you to access all the functions of a smartphone without having to hold one.
Today, a smartphone allows you to use different apps for all sorts of purposes and the need to stay connected can have a huge impact on your personal and professional success.
A smartwatch is a wearable device that you can easily control and adjust to gain access to different functions on the smartphone. You can get call notifications, messages, and email alerts to guarantee that you’ll never miss important news.
Some models also allow you to make calls and reply to messages while leaving your smartphone at home. Here are some of the benefits of using a smartwatch.
Smartwatches are wearable so you can stay connected and check out your notifications while holding gear in your hands.
These devices are lightweight and easy to use. They won’t strain your hand and you can easily see the notifications on a large display.
Most of these watches come with additional features. They’re activity trackers that you can use to record and compare your physical activity so you can always stay in excellent shape.
Most waterproof and water-resistant smartwatches can be used while you’re swimming, taking a shower or jogging in the rain, but you should check with the manufacturer for each one.
You can easily download various apps to your smartwatch. It’s like having a mini version of the phone worn on your wrist for fast and easy access.
What are the Benefits of Smartwatches?
Each model comes with a special set of features that makes it special and suitable for specific users. Here are a few features that you might find on your smartphone.
Notifications
While most smartwatches will notify you about messages and calls, only a few will allow you to reply and make calls. These are the most versatile models that will allow you to access the most basic functions on the phone.
Accessing smart and social media apps is extremely important so most of these smartwatches will help you access your social media accounts, receive messages through Skype and take a look at the latest tweets. You can also choose to activate specific apps that suit your lifestyle.
Time Alerts
Using your smartwatch you can set the stopwatch, different alarms and time zones. It saves you the hassle of converting time when you’re traveling for more convenience. Because you’re wearing the smartwatch, it’s a lot easier to check the time than looking at the smartphone.
Navigation
Most smartwatches are better at showing directions than smartphones. This is an excellent feature, especially for athletes who spend a lot of time running, cycling, hiking, and camping.
Having the GPS feature isn’t the only option you can enjoy while wearing a smartwatch. There are several options that allow you to get the most accurate positioning even when there’s a bad network.
Entertainment
While you’re working out or spending time away from home, it’s a good idea to have a compact entertainment device.
A smartwatch can be used to play music and podcasts after being connected to your smartphone.
Moreover, some models will have a feature that allows you to store media tracks directly to the watch. You can also make records that you can listen to later on.
Not all smartwatches have the ability to take photos. Some watches will also allow you to display photos and videos so you can watch all the media files on the large screen. Having a large HD display is definitely a plus.
Health Tracking
Health tracking is another smart feature that you can enjoy while wearing a well-made smartwatch. A good model will help track your sleep pattern and sleeping hours so you can notice the slightest change.
While playing sports and working out, you’ll be able to monitor your heartbeat rates. You can always keep track of your changes so you can spot any health issues or irregularities.
Some smartwatches also have a fall-detection feature. This is an alert that calls for help if you’re in danger. Wearing the right smartwatch can actually save your life thanks to the SOS feature.
Smartwatches might have several activity modes that are customized to suit different sports. Some models also allow you to download special apps to monitor your favorite workout and how you’re progressing.
How to Choose a Smartwatch?
Choosing the best waterproof smartwatch isn’t easy. There are several models that keep on updating every day as the technology industry keeps on improving. Here are some of the features that you need to think about before making a purchase.
Waterproofing / Water Resistance
There are several smartwatches on the market, but not all of them can work underwater.
You can’t make calls or type messages while you’re swimming, but you can easily check your incoming messages and even make calls while running in the rain.
You need to buy a waterproof or water-resistant smartwatch that will keep on functioning even if it gets splashed with water. Most smartwatches aren’t designed to stay submerged for a long period, but some of them can withstand water up to 100 meters.
Waterproof smartwatches are designed to be submerged in water. These are more suitable for serious swimmers and divers. Water-resistant watches will get damaged if they’re kept under the water for a long period. Water-resistance levels are different and are divided according to the depth of water, temperature, and pressure that increases with the depth of water.
Think about your lifestyle and the activities you’re likely to be interested in. A waterproof or water-resistant smartwatch doesn’t have to be taken off while you’re rowing, fishing, or washing your hands after working out.
Construction
If you plan on wearing your smartwatch every day, you want to make sure that it’s well-made. A rugged smartwatch lasts for a long time as it withstands everyday use. There are some low-priced models on the market, but some of them might be flimsy and will stop working after a while.
Make sure that your smartwatch is made of wear-resistant and scratch-resistant materials like silicone, resin, and stainless steel. Tempered glass is durable and will withstand accidental shocks. At the same time, all the buttons should be easy to access and conveniently located so using the smartwatch doesn’t become a burden.
Phone Compatibility
Smartwatches are meant to be compatible with smartphones, tablets, and other smart devices. However, you should make sure that your watch is compatible with your operating system.
Most smartwatches are designed to work with Android and iOS devices. However, some models are designed to be exclusively used with a specific smartphone. You can easily check the list provided by the manufacturer so you don’t buy a smartwatch that won’t work.
A smartwatch can be used after it’s paired with your phone using Bluetooth. Some watches are a bit tricky while others will pair on the spot. You’ll have to keep the phone within range to gain access to the different features using the smartwatch.
With some models, you can easily insert a sim card and in this case, the watch will be a compact version of your phone. You can easily make calls, reply to messages, and check several social media notifications.
Battery Life
It’s disappointing to run out of battery while you’re away from home. If you’re spending the day camping or hiking, you want to make sure that the battery is built to last. Check the battery life and make sure that it will last for the average time you’ll stay away from the charger.
Customization
Because your needs are different, you need to be able to customize the look and style of your smartwatch. Some models have replaceable wristbands. This means that you can choose the right one to match every outfit and lifestyle.
You can also change the wallpaper to show the notifications and apps that matter to you. It’s like having your personalized smartwatch that shows the applications you care about.
Downloading fitness and entertainment apps is a big plus because you know that you can adjust the watch to suit your lifestyle. Most smartwatches will come with several built-in apps. However, some high-quality models can access the Google or Apple Play Store so you can choose the apps you need.
How to Look After your Waterproof Smartwatch?
A waterproof smartwatch is an expensive gadget that you want to use for a long time. Here are a few tips that will help you make sure that your watch will last for a long time.
Clean the smartwatch regularly. You should switch it off and use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe the screen. Avoid using water to clean the watch, especially if it’s not waterproof as this can damage the internal parts.
Using paper towels and tissue paper isn’t recommended because some of these small particles can get into the inside of the watch.
Avoid using chemicals and detergents to clean the smartwatch. These chemicals might get trapped inside the watch and damage the internal sensitive parts which can cause false readings.
Charge the battery when it dies because overcharging it will affect its performance.
Replace the screen as soon as it breaks. Most of the time, your product will be backed up by a warranty. This means that you’ll have access to a new screen at a discounted price or for free.
Not replacing the broken screen will affect the quality of the graphics and readings which can deliver the wrong information.
Most smartwatches don’t have long battery life. You might have to take the watch off at night to make sure that the battery is going to last for long. If there’s a night mode that saves energy, you might choose to activate this feature to save the battery.
Frequently asked questions
Conclusion
Although it’s only meant to be used with iPhones, we chose the Apple Watch Series 4 as the best waterproof smartwatch. It allows you to make calls, read messages, and control Siri without having to touch your phone.
If you have an Android phone, you can choose the Samsung Gear S3 Frontier Smartwatch. It features clear graphics and allows you to stay connected while providing access to different health-tracking apps.