Watches not only tell time but also act as a fashion piece. Smartwatches have become an extension of our smartphones, offering a convenient way to manage calls, texts, fitness goals, and even our well-being. And while there are a plethora ofsmartwatches for Android usersout there, what about folks who drive an iPhone daily? Not every watch is compatible with the Apple iPhone.
Garmin Vivomove Sport
Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS
Apple likes to keep its customers within its ecosystem, which is why, for iPhone users, the Apple Watch remains the go-to choice. But the market isn’t limited to Apple products alone. Brands like Fitbit, Garmin, Withings, and Mobvoi offer fantastic alternatives that cater to specific needs such as advanced fitness tracking, stylish design, or hybrid functionalities. And while these smartwatches do sync data with Apple Health, a lot of them have proprietary apps that many consumers prefer over Apple’s solutions.
Withso many options available, finding the perfect smartwatch that complements one’s iPhone can be a bit overwhelming. Don’t fret, for Game Rant has compiled a list of the best smartwatches that are fully compatible and work well with the Apple iPhone. Whether one’s a fitness fanatic, a fashion enthusiast, or is simply looking for a seamless extension of their iPhone, our list should suffice.
After the legal drama in late 2023, the future of this generation of Apple Watches was uncertain. However, Apple was allowed to temporarily resume sales of the Apple Watch in the United States. So, for now, users can pick up the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra. That said, depending on how the case is carried out, this can change in the future.
Updated June 30th, 2024, by Varun Mirchandani:The latest updates to this article include two new smartwatch options which make the most of the Apple ecosystem.
Game Rant’s Picks of The Best Smartwatches For iPhone
Apple Watch Series 9
The Apple Watch Series 9 is powered by a new custom silicon from Apple that allows for machine learning tasks to process two times faster and gesture controls. These controls make it much easier to interact with the watch regardless of what the user is doing, from playing music to answering a call and even checking the weather gesture controls can do it all.
The Apple Watch Series has been the go-to smartwatch for iPhone users for quite some time now. Even though the Series 9 doesn’t look that different from the Series 8, the fine-tuning and upgrades that did happen easily make the Apple Watch Series 9 the best overall smartwatch for iPhones. The 2,000-nit display is a remarkable upgrade over the Series 8, which had a 1,000-nit display, and amazingly enough, it has minimal effect on the battery life.
The Apple Watch Series 9 is an excellent choice for people who want fantastic performance, thanks to the S9 chip, pretty decent battery life, and a robust set of health tracking features. This watch firmly sits in the middle of the Apple Watch lineup, with the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the Apple Watch SE on either side.
Apple has been making a very commendable effort to be carbon-neutral by 2030. To help with that, the Aluminum version of the Series 9 watch with the sports loop band is made with recycled materials, making it carbon-neutral. This is a relatively small step in a long process, but with more and more tech companies getting on this drive, it should hopefully make a pretty big difference.
Apple Watch Ultra 2
The most rugged and capable Apple Watch now has a second generation, and it is better than ever. Featuring the all-new S9 SiP, a magical new way to use the watch without touching the screen, this watch is built to take a beating and go anywhere and everywhere. Plus, with a battery that can last up to 72 hours, even on longer outdoor excursions, there is no need to worry about recharging.
For people looking to get the most performance and rugged use out of their smartwatch, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is absolutely the perfect choice. This is a big bulky watch, but with the excellent performance it provides, the size is excused. Using the same S9 processor that is in the Apple Watch Series 9, this watch has a 3,000 nit display that is beautiful and easy to see even in the harshest of direct light and has an average battery life of 55 hours.
At this price point, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is quite the investment, but for swimmers, runners, and general outdoor activity enthusiasts, it is well worth it. This watch can be submerged up to 330 feet, which is about 200 feet deeper than recreational scuba divers go. Underwater, the more significant form factor with the tactile buttons is very appreciated because the touch screen can get finicky.
People with theprevious Apple Watch Ultrawill probably not need to upgrade to the second generation. There are some slight spec bumps, like the new S9 processor, but it might be worth holding out for another release before upgrading.
Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen, GPS+Cellular) Smartwatch
The Apple Watch SE with GPS+Cellular allows users to make calls, send texts, and stream music without needing an iPhone nearby. This makes it a convenient device for staying connected, even when traveling internationally.Safety and health features are key aspects of the Apple Watch SE. It includes Crash Detection and Fall Detection, which can summon help in case of emergencies. Additionally, the watch can provide health insights, such as notifications of irregular heart rhythms or abnormal heart rates.
The Apple Watch SE is the perfect option for iPhone users who don’t want to spend too much money but still want access to Apple Watch features and excellent performance. Although, at this point, the S8 processor is a generation behind, it still provides fast and snappy response times. Moving through different apps is a breeze with the SE.
This watch also comes with an impressive set of health sensors. Even though there are fewer sensors than the Series 9 and Ultra 2, it is in line for this price point. The new motion sensors provide crash detection, which is a very nice addition to the fall detection on previous models. As far as exercise tracking goes, the SE is perfect for people who want to start keeping track of their runs, and even though users won’t be scuba diving with this watch or swimming laps in a pool, it is more than capable.
With its smaller size and lower price point, the Apple Watch SE is also an excellent choice for kids or older family members. For kids, it can be used as a standalone device, so they can text and call without needing a phone. For older adults, it’s not super intrusive with a bunch of bells and whistles, but the health tracking and fall detection features add peace of mind.
Fitbit Sense 2 Smartwatch
The Fitbit Sense 2 is a smartwatch designed to help users stress less, sleep better, and live healthier lives. It is equipped with an all-day stress detection feature that utilizes a continuous EDA sensor to identify and manage stress events. The watch provides users with a stress management score, guiding them to better manage their stress levels.
The Fitbit Sense 2 stands out as one of the best fitness trackers for iPhone users, offering a complete suite of health and wellness features that go beyond basic activity tracking. It is equipped with advanced sensors to monitor heart rate, stress levels, sleep patterns, and even skin temperature, making it an all-in-one health companion.
One of the Sense 2’s unique features is its electrodermal activity (EDA) sensor. This innovative tech helps one monitor stress levels throughout the day, allowing them to identify triggers and implement stress management techniques. Additionally, the Sense 2 boasts advanced sleep tracking, including sleep stages, oxygen saturation (SpO2), and sleep score.
For fans of outdoor activities, the Fitbit Sense 2 also includes a built-in GPS. This enables the user to track their outdoor activities such as running, cycling, or hiking without needing their phone. Additionally, its Active Zone Minutes feature helps one get the most out of their workouts by notifying them when they’re in the personalized target heart rate zone. The Sense 2 also supports a variety of guided breathing exercises and mindfulness sessions, contributing to better mental well-being.
Garmin Forerunner 265
The Garmin Forerunner 265 is the ultimate choice for runners seeking a smartwatch that combines advanced performance metrics with seamless integration for iPhone users. This GPS smartwatch is packed with features specifically designed to elevate every stride of a runner’s training journey. It offers personalized daily suggested workouts, alongside advanced running metrics like pace, cadence, VO2 Max estimate, and more.
The Garmin Forerunner 265 is specifically designed for athletes, featuring a wealth of tools to enhance running efficiency and track performance in great detail. One of its standout features is the advanced GPS accuracy, which ensures precise distance and pace tracking during runs. This feature alone makes it an indispensable companion for training and competitions. The Forerunner 265 combines it with a range of performance monitoring tools such as VO2 max, training load, and training effect. This allows runners to gauge their fitness levels and optimize their training plans.
Additionally, its heart rate monitor and Pulse Ox sensor provide real-time data on oxygen saturation and overall cardiovascular health. The watch also supports Garmin’s Coach feature, offering adaptive training plans that adjust based on the user’s progress and goals, providing personalized coaching directly to their wrist. Further, iPhone users will be happy to know the Forerunner 265 seamlessly connects with the Garmin Connect app. This app allows one to analyze their runs in detail, track progress over time, and even create custom courses.
Withings Steel HR
The Withings Steel HR is a hybrid smartwatch that gives users the features of a smartwatch but the classic look of a traditional watch. Easily track steps, heart rate, and up to 30 unique exercises. The battery life of up to 25 days makes it hard to beat compared to any other smartwatch on the market currently. Spend more time moving and less time charging.
Not everyone wants a smartwatch that looks like an Apple Watch with a bright display and a design that looks like a smartwatch. The Withings Steel HR is an excellent blend of smartwatch features and the classy looks of an analog watch. Unlike bulkier smartwatches, the Steel HR boasts a comfortable design and impressive battery life that lasts for weeks on a single charge. While it won’t overwhelm you with a million apps, it delivers essential fitness tracking like steps, sleep monitoring, and heart rate, all accessible through the user-friendly Withings Health Mate app.
The small OLED display on the top of the watch face shows stats like heart rate, steps, and even phone notifications. This is by no means a fitness tracker to the level of the Fitbit or Garmin, but it is excellent for tracking steps and keeping an eye on heart rate. The Steel HR comes in six colorways, and the bands can be easily swapped out for whatever look and material works best for the user. Plus, it comes in two different sizes. The Withings Steel HR is perfect for those who value a balance of classic aesthetics and modern technology.
Add to that, if charging a smartwatch daily is a turn-off, don’t worry about charging the Steel HR. Thanks to the lower power draw of the small OLED screen and efficient health tracking sensors, this watch can go up to 25 days without needing to be recharged. In Game Rant’s search for the best smartwatches for iPhone users, this is easily one of the most extended battery life options out there. Of course, people will have to give up many smart features and performance for such excellent battery life.
The Garmin Vivomove Sport combines the smart features and health-tracking support of a typical smartwatch, but it looks like an analog watch. Thanks to its low-power display, the Vivomove Sport can last up to five days without needing a recharge, while still providing heart rate monitoring, GPS tracking, and phone notifications. Users can take advantage of the excellent Garmin fitness app, to access health and wellness stats, like hydration tracking, sleep scores, and even mindful breathing exercises.
Like the Withings Steel HR, the Garmin Vivomove Sport is a smartwatch that doesn’t instantly look like a smartwatch. But the Vivomove Sport steps more into the fitness tracker world compared to the Steel HR. It has a wealth of health-tracking sensors that provide stats like stress levels, body battery, heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, and hydration levels.
While not the most comprehensive fitness tracker or fully featured smartwatch, the Vivomove Sport is a great way to get into smartwatches while still looking fashionable at quite an affordable price. The small OLED display is not aggressively bright, but even in direct sunlight, it is easy to read health stats or check a message.
With such a small screen, the battery life of this watch is pretty impressive compared to fully-fledged smartwatches. A single charge lasts up to five days. Of course, that is shorter than the 25 days of the Steel HR, but there are way more health trackers running on the Vivomove Sport.
The TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS from Mobvoi is a beast of a smartwatch and one of the few that works with iOS. It runs Google’s WearOS operating system, and iPhone users will need to install the WearOS app on their phones. The smartwatch boasts up to 45 days of battery life in Essential Mode thanks to its dual-display technology. It also sports a sturdy build with MIL-STD rating.
There aren’t too many smartwatches running WearOS that work with iOS, so fans of Google’s operating system will have to stick with relatively older models. Additionally, not all WearOS features will work on iOS, so that’s something else to keep in mind. The TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS is a great option when it comes to using a WearOS smartwatch with an iPhone. It packs loads of features, including an HD PPG heart rate sensor, a low-latency off-body sensor, a SpO2 sensor, and more. The smartwatch runs the Snapdragon Wear 4100 chip, which offers a smooth and lag-free user experience.
In terms of battery life, the TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS is king thanks to its dual-display technology. Mobvoi, the maker of the TicWatch, has cleverly stacked a low-power screen on top of the bright and sharp 1.4-inch AMOLED display. This gives users up to 45 days of battery life in Essential mode. With Smart Mode on, the Pro 3 Ultra can last up to an impressive 72 hours. The smartwatch has solid build quality thanks to its MIL-STD rating, making it ideal for all kinds of extreme activities. And, of course, it is IP68 water-resistant, which means users can swim with the watch on.
Another good WearOS option for iPhone users is theFossil Gen 6 Wellness Edition, as it uses the newer Snapdragon Wear 4100+ chip. It comes with a 1.28-inch AMOLED display and two configurable buttons. In Extended Mode, the Fossil Gen 6 Wellness Edition can last over 24 hours, and it has the typical set of sensors including PPG heart rate, SPO2, and off-body IR sensor. However, one major catch with this smartwatch is that Fossil has announced it will be exiting the smartwatch business and no new models will come out following the Gen 6. As such, one can score a heavy discount on their existing models, especially since they are heavily discounted.
How to Choose the Best Smartwatch for iPhone
Selecting the best smartwatch for an iPhone involves considering several key factors to ensure it meets your lifestyle needs and preferences. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision.
Compatibility and Integration
The first and foremost consideration is compatibility. While most smartwatches can pair with an iPhone, some offer better integration than others. Apple Watches, such as the Series 9 and Ultra 2, are designed to work seamlessly with iOS, providing features like Siri, Apple Pay, and access to the App Store. They also allow for the smooth synchronization of health and fitness data with Apple Health.
Health and Fitness Features
For fitness enthusiasts, features like built-in GPS, advanced heart rate monitoring, activity tracking, and sleep monitoring are crucial. The Fitbit Sense 2 and Garmin Forerunner 265, for example, offer advanced metrics like heart rate monitoring, stress management, sleep tracking, and GPS for outdoor activities. Consider what specific features are important, such as ECG, blood oxygen monitoring, or detailed workout analytics.
Design and Comfort
The design and comfort of a smartwatch are also essential. Ideally, one should get a watch that suits their style and is comfortable enough to wear all day. The Withings Steel HR offers a classic, elegant design that blends traditional analog aesthetics with modern smart features, making it a great choice for those who value style. On the other hand, models like the Apple Watch Ultra 2 provide a more rugged look suitable for outdoor activities.
Battery Life
Last but not least, nobody wants to keep plugging their smartwatch into the wall outlet every night. Smartwatches like the Garmin Vivomove Sport and Withings Steel HR offer extended battery life, often lasting several days or even weeks on a single charge. For those who don’t want to worry about charging their device frequently, these options can provide a much-needed convenience.
FAQ
Q: Do all smartwatches connect to iPhones?
While most smartwatches at this point are compatible with iPhones at this point, it is not a guarantee that all the features will be fully accessible for WearOS smartwatches on iPhones.
Q: Does Fitbit work with iPhone?
All of Fitbit’s lineup is fully compatible with iPhones and Android devices. As long as the phones are on iOS 15 or Android 9, the Fitbit app can be installed and Fitbit devices can be setup.
