Best Android smartwatches of 2025: I tested every popular watch so you can find the perfect fit
Similar to Apple's WatchOS, Google has a wearable version of its Android operating system called Wear OS. The version of Wear OS in 2025 is powerful and capable, with most watch models guaranteed to receive updates for years. The hardware offerings have expanded with several advanced smartwatch options from Google, Samsung, Mobvoi, and OnePlus.
Pricing ranges from $250 to $650, but Samsung's flagship can be found with special offers for even less than the $650 suggested retail price. Android smartwatches are more affordable than Apple Watch models, so that's one more advantage to being an Android smartphone user. Advanced health and wellness tracking, capable apps, unique safety features, and seamless connectivity make Wear OS smartwatches a wearable every Android smartphone owner should consider.


Best smartwatch deals of the week
- Google Pixel Watch 4 (41mm, Wi-Fi, Matte Black): $300 (save $50)
- Garmin Venu Sq 2 GPS Smartwatch (Shadow Gray): $150 (save $100)
- CMF Watch 2 Pro Smartwatch (Blue): $49 (save $30)
- Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band): $339 (save $60)
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 (40mm, Bluetooth, Graphite Band): $250 (save $100)
What is the best Android smartwatch right now?
At ZDNET, we have tested every popular Android smartwatch powered by Google's Wear OS on the market, evaluating battery life, display, durability, and health tracking features. Our pick for the best Android smartwatch overall is the Google Pixel Watch 4. It took a couple of generations for Google to perfect its smartwatch, but the latest edition is tough to beat with a couple of size options, superb software experience, elegant minimalist hardware, and the best safety features found in any smartwatch today.
I also wear the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra regularly thanks to its unique design, advanced safety features, running dynamics, and much more. The OnePlus Watch 3 is the clear battery champ so if long battery life is your primary need then you may want to consider it. Here's how the rest stack up against each other and on your wrist.
Sort by AllThe best Android smartwatches of 2025
Show less View now at Best BuyWhy we like it: Google continues to improve its Pixel Watch and the Pixel Watch 4 is the best smartwatch on the market when it comes to safety features. The Pixel Watch 4 also continues to integrate Fitbit features, including improved heart rate sensors and GPS tracking, making it the best watch available for both Fitbit and Google Pixel fans.
The emergency satellite SOS functionality works well and is valuable to have with you with no subscription required. In addition, emergency sharing, safety check, and automatic emergency detection features make this a watch that keeps an eye on you when you are not able and also provides a communications platform when you need help without a phone by your side. Some safety features are available even without a cellular subscription plan so Google is very focused on keeping you safe.
Who it's for: The Google Pixel Watch 4 is a stunning smartwatch with lovely stylish color options and a form factor that is attractive and functional. Google also made the watch fairly easy to repair if there is ever an issue through the use of screws instead of adhesives.
Google incorporated a running workout builder that gathers your health data over a two-week period and then creates a program that adapts to your data regularly. Real-time guidance is provided as you run, advanced metrics are tracked and then Google shows you how to improve the metrics, a Daily Readiness Score is provided even if you are not a Fitbit Premium subscriber, and Cardio/Target load features are available. The Cardio and Target load features may even trump some of the best sports watches. Bottom line: If you're a Fitbit fan and are looking for the latest and greatest Fitbit in a watch form factor, then the Google Pixel Watch 4 is the wearable for you. If you also enjoy Google's take on wearables and want years of updates, then this is the watch to consider.
Who should look elsewhere: If you use an iPhone, don't even think about the Pixel Watch 4. Google WearOS watches used to work with iOS, but that is no longer the case so you need an Android phone to use this watch. It's also not the best option for those looking for a rugged watch due to its proud display and minimalist form factor.
Google Pixel Watch 4 tech specs: Display: 1.2-inch (41mm) and 1.45-inch (45mm) AMOLED | Battery life: 30 hours (41mm) and 40 hours (45mm) with AOD | Dimensions: 41 x 41 x 12.3mm and 45 x 45 x 12.3mm | Weight: 31 g (without band) and 37 g | Water/Dust resistance: 5 ATM/IP68 | LTE cellular option: Yes
Pros
- Large display with minimalist elegant design
- Two sizes to choose from, attractive color options
- Personalized running workouts
- Advanced safety features, including emergency satellite connectivity
- Improved battery life
- Not built for rugged adventures
Why we like it: Google continues to improve its Pixel Watch and the Pixel Watch 4 is the best smartwatch on the market when it comes to safety features. The Pixel Watch 4 also continues to integrate Fitbit features, including improved heart rate sensors and GPS tracking, making it the best watch available for both Fitbit and Google Pixel fans.
The emergency satellite SOS functionality works well and is valuable to have with you with no subscription required. In addition, emergency sharing, safety check, and automatic emergency detection features make this a watch that keeps an eye on you when you are not able and also provides a communications platform when you need help without a phone by your side. Some safety features are available even without a cellular subscription plan so Google is very focused on keeping you safe.
Who it's for: The Google Pixel Watch 4 is a stunning smartwatch with lovely stylish color options and a form factor that is attractive and functional. Google also made the watch fairly easy to repair if there is ever an issue through the use of screws instead of adhesives.
Google incorporated a running workout builder that gathers your health data over a two-week period and then creates a program that adapts to your data regularly. Real-time guidance is provided as you run, advanced metrics are tracked and then Google shows you how to improve the metrics, a Daily Readiness Score is provided even if you are not a Fitbit Premium subscriber, and Cardio/Target load features are available. The Cardio and Target load features may even trump some of the best sports watches. Bottom line: If you're a Fitbit fan and are looking for the latest and greatest Fitbit in a watch form factor, then the Google Pixel Watch 4 is the wearable for you. If you also enjoy Google's take on wearables and want years of updates, then this is the watch to consider.
Who should look elsewhere: If you use an iPhone, don't even think about the Pixel Watch 4. Google WearOS watches used to work with iOS, but that is no longer the case so you need an Android phone to use this watch. It's also not the best option for those looking for a rugged watch due to its proud display and minimalist form factor.
Google Pixel Watch 4 tech specs: Display: 1.2-inch (41mm) and 1.45-inch (45mm) AMOLED | Battery life: 30 hours (41mm) and 40 hours (45mm) with AOD | Dimensions: 41 x 41 x 12.3mm and 45 x 45 x 12.3mm | Weight: 31 g (without band) and 37 g | Water/Dust resistance: 5 ATM/IP68 | LTE cellular option: Yes
Read MoreWhy we like it: Apple took a shot across the bow of serious GPS sports watch brands with the Apple Watch Ultra series, and now Samsung joins the party with the large Galaxy Watch Ultra. Samsung branded it the same way as Apple, along with a familiar orange button and waterproof silicone band. A few other advanced features found in Apple's model are present in the Samsung model, which is a great thing for Android phone owners, especially Samsung Galaxy phone owners.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra has a unique square design with a round watch face, an interesting magnetic lug system, three buttons on one side, gesture support, advanced running dynamics, and more. Samsung's Galaxy AI is present in the form of wellness insights that combine into a daily score to help guide you to optimal performance, including healthy sleep levels.
Who it's for: The Watch Ultra runs the Samsung-powered Google Wear OS 6.0 with One UI Watch 8.0, meaning it still looks like a Samsung smartwatch, but also supports Google Assistant, Google Maps, Google Wallet, Google Play Store, and more Google apps.
It has an operating system optimized for the round watch design with a virtual rotating bezel. Fall detection, messaging, phone calls, and more are available on the watch, with advanced fitness data such as VO2 Max and advanced running dynamics data also supported. If you have large wrists, spend lots of time exploring the outdoors, or want a rugged, long battery life Wear OS watch, then the Galaxy Watch Ultra is for you.
At $649, it is the most expensive Samsung Galaxy watch, but it is still $150 less than Apple's competing Apple Watch Ultra 3. There are some fantastic deals available and solid trade-in options, so if you are considering this watch, make sure to check out the latest prices on Samsung's website.
Who should look elsewhere:: If you use an iPhone, don't even think about the Galaxy Watch Ultra. Google WearOS watches used to work with iOS, but that is no longer the case so you need an Android phone to use this watch. The Galaxy Watch Ultra is also a very large watch so if you have smaller wrists then consider the Galaxy Watch 8 or Google Pixel Watch 4.
Galaxy Watch Ultra tech specs: Display: 1.5 inch, 480 x 480 pixels Super AMOLED | Battery life: Two to three days | Dimensions: 47.4 x 47.1 x 12.1mm | Weight: 60.5 grams | Water resistance: 10 ATM+IP68 | LTE cellular option: Yes
Pros
- Lightweight titanium casing
- Sapphire glass AMOLED display
- Advanced safety features
- Large capacity battery
- Large size not suitable for smaller wrists
- Blood pressure certification taking much longer than advertised
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
Best rugged Android smartwatch
4.4 / 5 ScoreWhy we like it: Apple took a shot across the bow of serious GPS sports watch brands with the Apple Watch Ultra series, and now Samsung joins the party with the large Galaxy Watch Ultra. Samsung branded it the same way as Apple, along with a familiar orange button and waterproof silicone band. A few other advanced features found in Apple's model are present in the Samsung model, which is a great thing for Android phone owners, especially Samsung Galaxy phone owners.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra has a unique square design with a round watch face, an interesting magnetic lug system, three buttons on one side, gesture support, advanced running dynamics, and more. Samsung's Galaxy AI is present in the form of wellness insights that combine into a daily score to help guide you to optimal performance, including healthy sleep levels.
Who it's for: The Watch Ultra runs the Samsung-powered Google Wear OS 6.0 with One UI Watch 8.0, meaning it still looks like a Samsung smartwatch, but also supports Google Assistant, Google Maps, Google Wallet, Google Play Store, and more Google apps.
It has an operating system optimized for the round watch design with a virtual rotating bezel. Fall detection, messaging, phone calls, and more are available on the watch, with advanced fitness data such as VO2 Max and advanced running dynamics data also supported. If you have large wrists, spend lots of time exploring the outdoors, or want a rugged, long battery life Wear OS watch, then the Galaxy Watch Ultra is for you.
At $649, it is the most expensive Samsung Galaxy watch, but it is still $150 less than Apple's competing Apple Watch Ultra 3. There are some fantastic deals available and solid trade-in options, so if you are considering this watch, make sure to check out the latest prices on Samsung's website.
Who should look elsewhere:: If you use an iPhone, don't even think about the Galaxy Watch Ultra. Google WearOS watches used to work with iOS, but that is no longer the case so you need an Android phone to use this watch. The Galaxy Watch Ultra is also a very large watch so if you have smaller wrists then consider the Galaxy Watch 8 or Google Pixel Watch 4.
Galaxy Watch Ultra tech specs: Display: 1.5 inch, 480 x 480 pixels Super AMOLED | Battery life: Two to three days | Dimensions: 47.4 x 47.1 x 12.1mm | Weight: 60.5 grams | Water resistance: 10 ATM+IP68 | LTE cellular option: Yes
Why we like it: Samsung's latest smartwatch for the masses, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, was unveiled along with the Galaxy Watch 8 at the July 2025 Unpacked event in New York. It brings back the physical rotating bezel along with a new cushion design inspired by the Galaxy Watch Ultra.
In addition to the bezel, this is the first WearOS watch that includes Google Gemini out of the box, so all of the power of Google's AI assistant is now on your wrist. Samsung's Galaxy AI is also included so you have a powerful companion available.
Who it's for: The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is a lovely watch with advanced support for runners, with a Running Coach that's offered for free after you complete your running test. A dynamic running program guides you as you run so that you can maintain your heart rate or pace in order to achieve your goals.
If you want to closely manage your health, the Watch 8 Classic provides an antioxidant test, ECG, sleep apnea detection, body composition, and more so that you always know your key health and wellness metrics.
Who should look elsewhere: If you use an iPhone, don't even think about the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic. Google WearOS watches used to work with iOS, but that is no longer the case -- you need an Android phone to use this watch.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic tech specs: Display:
1.34-inch 438x438 Super AMOLED | Battery life: Up to 40 hours | Dimensions: 46 x 46.4 x 10.6 mm | Weight: 63.5g | Water/Dust resistance:5ATM | LTE cellular option: Yes
Pros
- Physical rotating bezel
- Advanced health and wellness functions
- Free and functional Running and Sleep Coach modules
- Sapphire crystal display and small form factor
- Slightly smaller display than the Galaxy Watch 7 and tough to change bands
- Difficult to change the bands
Why we like it: Samsung's latest smartwatch for the masses, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, was unveiled along with the Galaxy Watch 8 at the July 2025 Unpacked event in New York. It brings back the physical rotating bezel along with a new cushion design inspired by the Galaxy Watch Ultra.
In addition to the bezel, this is the first WearOS watch that includes Google Gemini out of the box, so all of the power of Google's AI assistant is now on your wrist. Samsung's Galaxy AI is also included so you have a powerful companion available.
Who it's for: The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is a lovely watch with advanced support for runners, with a Running Coach that's offered for free after you complete your running test. A dynamic running program guides you as you run so that you can maintain your heart rate or pace in order to achieve your goals.
If you want to closely manage your health, the Watch 8 Classic provides an antioxidant test, ECG, sleep apnea detection, body composition, and more so that you always know your key health and wellness metrics.
Who should look elsewhere: If you use an iPhone, don't even think about the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic. Google WearOS watches used to work with iOS, but that is no longer the case -- you need an Android phone to use this watch.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic tech specs: Display:
1.34-inch 438x438 Super AMOLED | Battery life: Up to 40 hours | Dimensions: 46 x 46.4 x 10.6 mm | Weight: 63.5g | Water/Dust resistance:5ATM | LTE cellular option: Yes
Read MoreWhy we like it: If you have small wrists or are a bit hesitant about jumping into the smartwatch market, the Galaxy Watch FE LTE is a great option with a low price and the backing of the Samsung Health ecosystem. The 40mm form factor is sure to please, and while it may be a slightly older processor, it is the same that powered the very capable Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro.
Who it's for: The Watch FE LTE is only 25.9 grams, compared to the Galaxy Watch Ultra, which weighs 61.5 grams. The Watch Ultra has a 47mm main dimension, while the Watch FE is only 40.4mm. This means the Watch FE LTE feels tiny on my wrist, but I find the silicone band very comfortable, and the size makes it very easy to use for sleep tracking.
The Galaxy Watch FE LTE is affordable at $250 and cellular plans from your carrier give you the ability to use your watch as a communication companion. Make sure to check out the Samsung website during holiday sales, as the price is currently as low as $200.
The watch is great for tracking steps, indoor activities, and other workouts that don't require precise positioning. Samsung Health works with the Samsung Wearable app to provide a full health and wellness experience based on the data the Watch FE LTE collects. Samsung Health also includes loads of fitness programs for free, so you can enjoy various workouts at three fitness levels and with different selected fitness goals.
Who should look elsewhere: If you have larger wrists, then the Watch FE LTE may be too small for you, and the Galaxy Watch 7 series or Watch Ultra would be better options. The watch works with all Android phones, but Samsung smartphone users will have the optimal experience, so if you have another model Android smartphone, you might want to consider a Mobvoi or Google Pixel Watch.
Samsung Galaxy Watch FE LTE tech specs: Display: 1.2-inch 396x396 Super AMOLED | Battery life: Up to 40 hours | Dimensions: 39.3 x 40.4 x 9.8mm | Weight: 26.6 g | Water/Dust resistance: 5ATM/IP68 | LTE cellular option: Yes
Pros
- Brighter, bigger display
- Upgraded optical and electrical BioActive sensors
- Small and light form factor
- Low price with LTE support
- A previous-generation process is installed
- No AI health features are included
Why we like it: If you have small wrists or are a bit hesitant about jumping into the smartwatch market, the Galaxy Watch FE LTE is a great option with a low price and the backing of the Samsung Health ecosystem. The 40mm form factor is sure to please, and while it may be a slightly older processor, it is the same that powered the very capable Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro.
Who it's for: The Watch FE LTE is only 25.9 grams, compared to the Galaxy Watch Ultra, which weighs 61.5 grams. The Watch Ultra has a 47mm main dimension, while the Watch FE is only 40.4mm. This means the Watch FE LTE feels tiny on my wrist, but I find the silicone band very comfortable, and the size makes it very easy to use for sleep tracking.
The Galaxy Watch FE LTE is affordable at $250 and cellular plans from your carrier give you the ability to use your watch as a communication companion. Make sure to check out the Samsung website during holiday sales, as the price is currently as low as $200.
The watch is great for tracking steps, indoor activities, and other workouts that don't require precise positioning. Samsung Health works with the Samsung Wearable app to provide a full health and wellness experience based on the data the Watch FE LTE collects. Samsung Health also includes loads of fitness programs for free, so you can enjoy various workouts at three fitness levels and with different selected fitness goals.
Who should look elsewhere: If you have larger wrists, then the Watch FE LTE may be too small for you, and the Galaxy Watch 7 series or Watch Ultra would be better options. The watch works with all Android phones, but Samsung smartphone users will have the optimal experience, so if you have another model Android smartphone, you might want to consider a Mobvoi or Google Pixel Watch.
Samsung Galaxy Watch FE LTE tech specs: Display: 1.2-inch 396x396 Super AMOLED | Battery life: Up to 40 hours | Dimensions: 39.3 x 40.4 x 9.8mm | Weight: 26.6 g | Water/Dust resistance: 5ATM/IP68 | LTE cellular option: Yes
Read MoreWhy we like it: OnePlus earned the award for most improved in moving from the original OnePlus Watch to the Watch 2, and with this new model, the company shows it listens to customers and takes input to heart. The OnePlus Watch 3 is the clear battery champ of all smartwatches, with a reliable five-day battery life in typical smart mode, even longer if you change a few settings. Past champs achieved two, and sometimes three, days of battery life, and now you can resort to charging just on the weekends.
Who it's for: OnePlus states the watch will last for five days in smart mode and up to 16 days in power saver mode. It has a massive 631 mAh battery that incorporates the new OnePlus silicon nanostack battery technology so the capacity and dual-OS approach make for a watch that seems to last forever. The Watch 3 also supports fast charging so just 10 minutes of charging give you enough power for a day of use.
The OnePlus Watch 3 is also built to last with a stainless steel body, sapphire crystal watch face, 50m water resistance, IP68 water and dust resistance, and MIL-STD-810H certification. The large, textured crown button rotates for easy navigation and presses in for selections.
GPS location tracking and heart rate readings are very accurate, even though the watch cannot connect to external sensors. Advanced running dynamics and other specialized sports metrics are measured by the Watch 3, including racket swing dynamics for sports like badminton and slope angle for downhill skiing. Take the OnePlus Watch 3 with you on your next adventure and enjoy the interesting metrics after the activity.
Who should look elsewhere: If you need a watch with integrated LTE connectivity, then look to the Samsung or Google options detailed in this list. The OnePlus Watch 3 is also a rather large smartwatch for larger wrists, so those with smaller wrists may not be satisfied with the bulk of this rugged watch.
OnePlus Watch 3 specs: Display:1.5 inches, 466 x 466 pixels AMOLED | Battery life: Up to 5 days | Dimensions: 46.6 x 47.6 x 11mm | Weight: 81 g (with strap) | Water resistance: 5 ATM | LTE cellular option: No
Pros
- Lovely hardware design with rotating digital crown
- High level of durability, fit, and finish
- Five days of battery in typical smart mode
- No LTE version
- Only one size
- OHealth smartphone companion app needs some work
Why we like it: OnePlus earned the award for most improved in moving from the original OnePlus Watch to the Watch 2, and with this new model, the company shows it listens to customers and takes input to heart. The OnePlus Watch 3 is the clear battery champ of all smartwatches, with a reliable five-day battery life in typical smart mode, even longer if you change a few settings. Past champs achieved two, and sometimes three, days of battery life, and now you can resort to charging just on the weekends.
Who it's for: OnePlus states the watch will last for five days in smart mode and up to 16 days in power saver mode. It has a massive 631 mAh battery that incorporates the new OnePlus silicon nanostack battery technology so the capacity and dual-OS approach make for a watch that seems to last forever. The Watch 3 also supports fast charging so just 10 minutes of charging give you enough power for a day of use.
The OnePlus Watch 3 is also built to last with a stainless steel body, sapphire crystal watch face, 50m water resistance, IP68 water and dust resistance, and MIL-STD-810H certification. The large, textured crown button rotates for easy navigation and presses in for selections.
GPS location tracking and heart rate readings are very accurate, even though the watch cannot connect to external sensors. Advanced running dynamics and other specialized sports metrics are measured by the Watch 3, including racket swing dynamics for sports like badminton and slope angle for downhill skiing. Take the OnePlus Watch 3 with you on your next adventure and enjoy the interesting metrics after the activity.
Who should look elsewhere: If you need a watch with integrated LTE connectivity, then look to the Samsung or Google options detailed in this list. The OnePlus Watch 3 is also a rather large smartwatch for larger wrists, so those with smaller wrists may not be satisfied with the bulk of this rugged watch.
OnePlus Watch 3 specs: Display:1.5 inches, 466 x 466 pixels AMOLED | Battery life: Up to 5 days | Dimensions: 46.6 x 47.6 x 11mm | Weight: 81 g (with strap) | Water resistance: 5 ATM | LTE cellular option: No
Read MoreWhy we like it: After spending weeks running, rowing, biking, and sleeping with the TicWatch Atlas smartwatch, I found that its marathon battery life solves my biggest issue with Wear OS smartwatches. It is similar to the TicWatch Pro 5 Enduro with slight tweaks to make it
The Mobvoi TicWatch Atlas' massive 628mAh battery has a unique dual display design for low-power standby use. That equates to an advertised 90 hours -- nearly four days -- of battery life in smart mode, and up to 45 days in Essential Mode. Even better yet, just 30 minutes of fast charging provides up to two days of battery life.
Who it's for: The Snapdragon W5 Plus Gen 1 Wearable Platform contributes to the impressive battery life. The watch supports five GNSS, so tracking outdoor activities is accurate. The heart rate sensor does well for most activities, and with some installed apps, you can pair external sensors, although TicExercise does not support this functionality.
Beyond battery life, the dual-display technology with interactive and customizable ultra-low power display options is exceedingly useful. You can choose from 18 background colors to highlight the always-on display, and that display on the top layer of the watch will show you key metrics such as number of steps taken, heart rate, battery life, time, and date. Spinning the large rotating crown button brings up a full display heart rate reading, blood oxygen level, and compass heading in this dual display mode.
Who should look elsewhere: If you need a watch with integrated LTE connectivity, then look to the Samsung or Google options detailed in this list. The Mobvoi TicWatch Atlas is also a rather large smartwatch for larger wrists, so those with smaller wrists may not be satisfied with the bulk of this long-lasting watch. While the Tic-branded apps add an extensive amount of health and fitness data, if you are looking for a minimalist approach, then this may not be the watch for you.
Mobvoi TicWatch Atlas specs: Display:1.43 inches, 466 x 466 pixels AMOLED | Battery life: Up to 4 days | Dimensions: 52.2 x 47.8 x 12.05mm | Weight: 47.2 g (no strap) | Water resistance: 5 ATM | LTE cellular option: No
Pros
- Long battery life
- Dual display technology
- Sapphire glass display
- Affordable sub-$300 price
- One size
- Multiple Mobvoi apps on top of Wear OS apps
Why we like it: After spending weeks running, rowing, biking, and sleeping with the TicWatch Atlas smartwatch, I found that its marathon battery life solves my biggest issue with Wear OS smartwatches. It is similar to the TicWatch Pro 5 Enduro with slight tweaks to make it
The Mobvoi TicWatch Atlas' massive 628mAh battery has a unique dual display design for low-power standby use. That equates to an advertised 90 hours -- nearly four days -- of battery life in smart mode, and up to 45 days in Essential Mode. Even better yet, just 30 minutes of fast charging provides up to two days of battery life.
Who it's for: The Snapdragon W5 Plus Gen 1 Wearable Platform contributes to the impressive battery life. The watch supports five GNSS, so tracking outdoor activities is accurate. The heart rate sensor does well for most activities, and with some installed apps, you can pair external sensors, although TicExercise does not support this functionality.
Beyond battery life, the dual-display technology with interactive and customizable ultra-low power display options is exceedingly useful. You can choose from 18 background colors to highlight the always-on display, and that display on the top layer of the watch will show you key metrics such as number of steps taken, heart rate, battery life, time, and date. Spinning the large rotating crown button brings up a full display heart rate reading, blood oxygen level, and compass heading in this dual display mode.
Who should look elsewhere: If you need a watch with integrated LTE connectivity, then look to the Samsung or Google options detailed in this list. The Mobvoi TicWatch Atlas is also a rather large smartwatch for larger wrists, so those with smaller wrists may not be satisfied with the bulk of this long-lasting watch. While the Tic-branded apps add an extensive amount of health and fitness data, if you are looking for a minimalist approach, then this may not be the watch for you.
Mobvoi TicWatch Atlas specs: Display:1.43 inches, 466 x 466 pixels AMOLED | Battery life: Up to 4 days | Dimensions: 52.2 x 47.8 x 12.05mm | Weight: 47.2 g (no strap) | Water resistance: 5 ATM | LTE cellular option: No
Read MoreWhat is the best Android smartwatch?
When it comes to choosing which Android smartwatch is the best, you need to make a couple key decisions to narrow down your options. While iPhone owners are limited to various models of the Apple Watch, Android smartphone owners have more choices from Samsung, Google, OnePlus, and Mobvoi.
This table compares the top models based on price, screen size, and battery life, which can all dramatically impact your experience.
| Best Android smartwatch | Starting price | Screen size | Battery life | Water resistance | LTE support |
| Google Pixel Watch 4 | $350 | 1.2 inches (41mm) and 1.45 inches (45mm) | 30-40 hours | 5 ATM/IP68 | Yes + satellite SOS |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra | $425 | 1.5 inches | 2 days | 10 ATM | Yes |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch FE LTE | $250 | 1.2 inches | 40 hours | 5 ATM | Yes |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic | $500 | 1.34 inches | 18 hours | 5 ATM/IP68 | Yes |
| OnePlus Watch 3 | $320 | 1.5 inches | 5 days (120 hours) | 5 ATM/IP68 | No |
| Mobvoi TicWatch Atlas | $200 | 1.43 inches | 4 days | 5 ATM | No |
Which is the right Android smartwatch for you?
Every Android smartwatch in this list includes different features, designs, and best-use cases. That being said, there's a smartwatch for everyone. If you want the best overall Android smartwatch, go with the Google Pixel Watch 4. But if you want a powerful smartwatch on a budget, the Mobvoi TicWatch Atlas could make the perfect choice.
Before you purchase the newest accessory for your wrist, consider our recommendations based on priorities.
| Choose this Android smartwatch… | If you want… |
| Google Pixel Watch 4 | One of the smaller smartwatches on the market that integrates both Google and Fitbit's comprehensive ecosystems. With a beautiful display encased in a Corning Gorilla Glass screen, the watch is both aesthetic and durable. It also sports the most robust set of safety features on a smartwatch. |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra | Samsung's newest Galaxy watch that takes on the Apple Watch Ultra 3 with similar design elements. It's the most powerful Android smartwatch available today and gives Android users a watch they can be proud of. |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic | A watch with a rotating bezel that fits in well with the user interface optimized for the round watch face. It supports Google Assistant, Google Maps, Google Wallet, Google Play Store, and more Google apps. |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch FE LTE | One of the smallest and lightest smartwatches available for Android phone users. It supports Google Assistant, Google Maps, Google Wallet, Google Play Store, and more Google apps. |
| OnePlus Watch 3 | A smartwatch with the latest WearOS features, an elegant design, and battery endurance to match. Thanks to a dual processor architecture and OnePlus battery magic, the Watch 3 can easily last up to five days per charge. |
| Mobvoi TicWatch Atlas | Long battery life, useful fitness features, and high quality at a good price. |
Factors to consider when choosing an Android smartwatch
If you're interested in buying an Android smartwatch, you should consider the following factors:
- Display: While all of our picks have comprehensive app compatibility, most smartwatch interaction happens directly on the watch interface. We factored in each watch's screen size, resolution, and display type so that you're assured to have a navigable smartwatch experience.
- Battery life: Don't get left behind on telling time or tracking your activities. Longer battery life is essential for a reliable smartwatch.
- Durability: As most smartwatches are activity and health trackers, you'll probably want something that can withstand the outdoors, water, or inevitable drops and dings.
- Health suite: Smartwatches track more than just time, but can monitor your activity and overall health. We selected watches that encompass effective health-tracking sensors and can serve as a health-monitoring tool.
How we test Android smartwatches
All of the Android smartwatches included in this list were chosen based on how they performed when tested in the real world by the ZDNET team. When we test smartwatches, we typically follow the same routine for each one to see which performs best. We test for:
- Daily wear: We wear the smartwatch as our primary watch with communications, applications, and other elements being tested as if it was our only smartwatch.
- Application selection and performance: One aspect that makes smartwatches different than standard watches is the support for applications. We load up the watch with apps and then test the performance and functionality of those applications. Google's Play Store continues to increase the number of applications and quality of those applications so it can serve as a faithful companion to your Android smartphone.
- Workouts: Smartwatch makers have embraced health and fitness so we take our smartwatch out for running with GPS, rowing on the Hydrow, biking on trails, and walking with the family. GPS and heart rate data is tracked and then we evaluate the accuracy against proven GPS sports watches.
- Sleep and activity tracking: Sleep tracking has improved with Android smartwatches over time and we evaluate them as compared to smart rings and other watches.
For a deeper look at our testing process, check out our comprehensive smartwatch testing methodology.
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