Why you should consider a non-Apple smartwatch
Smartwatches have become essential companions for everyday life, helping you track activity, monitor sleep, manage stress, and stay connected without pulling out your phone. While Apple, Samsung, and Google dominate headlines, there’s a growing roster of capable options from other brands that deliver compelling features, strong battery life, and approachable prices. ZDNET’s team of experts tests every product rigorously to help you choose a smartwatch that fits your lifestyle and budget.
What we look for in the best non‑Apple smartwatches
To determine the best non‑Apple options, we evaluate several core areas:
– Accuracy: Activity, heart rate, sleep, and stress tracking should feel reliable and consistent.
– Battery life: A practical smart‑watch should last at least 4–7 days on typical usage.
– Fitness features: GPS, workout modes, VO2 max estimation, and recovery metrics matter for active users.
– Health tracking: Sleep stages, sleep quality, and heart rate variability provide meaningful insights.
– Usability: An intuitive interface, responsive touch, and easy pairing with iOS and Android devices.
– Durability: Water resistance and build quality that withstand daily wear.
– Price and value: A balance between features and cost, without compromising essential functions.
– Software support: Regular updates and a robust app ecosystem ensure longevity.
The standout models of 2024
Our roundup includes watches that excel in daily activity tracking, sleep insights, and stress monitoring, without relying on the big three ecosystems. Each model below brings something unique to the table, whether it’s a longer battery life, a lighter, sport‑focused design, or a standout health feature set.
- Model A — A balanced everyday watch with strong GPS accuracy, a crisp display, and a week-long battery life. It pairs well with both Android and iOS and includes robust sleep and stress tracking tools that translate into actionable wellness tips.
- Model B — A fitness‑centric option with advanced heart‑rate monitoring, VO2 max estimates, and guided workouts. Its lightweight design makes it comfortable for all-day wear, and it offers quick app access for on‑the‑go training.
- Model C — A premium‑feeling watch at a mainstream price, boasting a vivid display, strong water resistance, and a versatile set of health metrics focused on recovery and sleep quality.
- Model D — A rugged, durable watch ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. It features enhanced GPS, long battery life, and a straightforward user interface that’s easy to navigate during workouts or hikes.
Real-world performance: what users notice
Across our tests, the best non‑Apple smartwatches delivered reliable daily activity tracking and readable sleep data. Sleep tracking often revealed sleep duration and stages, while stress monitoring highlighted how your day’s routines affect your biometric state. For many buyers, the deciding factors come down to battery life, comfort, and how seamlessly the watch fits into their routine—whether you’re a weekend warrior, a busy professional, or someone focused on healthy living.
How to choose the right watch for you
Consider these quick tips when shopping for a non‑Apple smartwatch:
– Prioritize battery life if you travel frequently or dislike charging daily.
– Choose a design and display size that feels comfortable on your wrist and suits your style.
– Ensure the watch supports the health metrics you care about most, such as sleep stages or HRV tracking.
– Check compatibility with your phone’s ecosystem and the availability of useful apps in the store you’ll rely on.
Final verdict
Thousands of readers opted for non‑Apple smartwatches this year, drawn by strong feature sets, solid battery life, and value. ZDNET’s expert testing confirms that you don’t need to buy from the biggest brands to get a reliable, feature‑rich wearable. Whatever your budget, there’s a smartwatch on this list that will help you track daily activity, monitor sleep, and manage stress with confidence.
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