2024-03-02 11:11:46
Smartwatches are true all-rounders and can also look stylish. Whether heart rate measurement, music playback or contactless payment: nothing is too much for these small computers. Stiftung Warentest has tested several models. Here are the results.
The most important things at a glance
Smartwatches not only serve as timepieces, but also motivate people to exercise more, record steps and enable the forwarding of messages from their cell phones. Thanks to interchangeable straps and individual watch faces, they also become a fashion accessory that fits any personal style.
Stiftung Warentest has added a total of 13 additional models to its study from “test” issue 12/2023. Apple, Garmin and Google are at the forefront. We show the test winner and other recommended smartwatches:
Smartwatches in the test: This is how Stiftung Warentest tests them
Stiftung Warentest has examined a total of 154 smartwatches and fitness trackers between 42 and 600 euros since 2019. Now 13 models have been added.
Since November 2022, Stiftung Warentest has been testing smartwatches and fitness trackers in collaboration with European consumer organizations from various countries. The test procedure has therefore changed slightly compared to previous programs.
The most important criterion for the examiners is still the fitness function. Communication and other functions, handling and the battery are also evaluated. Further test areas include stability and processing as well as data protection and data security.
The results of the smartwatch test at a glance
At the top of the newly tested smartwatches is the Apple Watch Series 9 with a rating of “good (1.7)”. It impresses with excellent performance in terms of stability and workmanship. Close behind is, among other things, Garmin Venu 3 with a rating of “good (1.8)”.
Die Google Pixel Watch 2 also impresses with an overall grade of “good (1.8)”. As a price tip with the “test” quality rating “good (2.3)” the Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro recommended for around 260 euros. What is striking, however, is that none of the smartwatches fully meets all of the requirements of the General Data Protection Regulation.
The best smartwatch in the current test: Apple Watch Series 9
The test result: The Apple Watch Series 9 achieved the test quality rating of “good (1.7)”, just behind its predecessor, making it the test winner among the newly examined models. Since the previous model is almost only available as a refurbished version, the Apple Watch Series 9 is considered the best newly available smartwatch. This watch impresses with its stability, workmanship as well as its fitness and communication functions.
Product details: Apple’s current top model measures heart rate, can create an ECG, detects falls and tracks sleep quality. The model is also equipped with a temperature sensor for retrospective ovulation estimates while offering advanced cycle tracking features.
Even beyond the fitness data, the watch impresses with a bright always-on Retina OLED screen, GPS, good performance and the option to install additional apps. With Siri you also have Apple’s voice assistant on your wrist, and with the optional LTE reception you can be online even without a cell phone and receive phone calls and messages. However, this costs extra.
According to the manufacturer, the battery life is up to 18 hours. With the huge selection of matching bracelets, you can personalize the watch depending on your outfit and occasion. However, all the good grades have one caveat: without an iPhone, there is no Apple Watch. It can only be paired with the Apple smartphone. Android users will have to look at other manufacturers.
Practical sports watch: Smartwatch from Garmin
The test result: The Garmin Venu 3 received the “test” quality rating “good (1.8)” from the testers at Stiftung Warentest and is particularly impressive with its very good handling, stability and workmanship. The testers were also completely impressed by the fitness functions.
Product details: The Garmin watch is an all-rounder. On the one hand, it is a good fitness tracker and, on the other hand, it can be used as a smartwatch in everyday life. Unlike the Apple Watch, this model is compatible with the operating systems of Android phones and iPhones.
In contrast to the Apple Watch, the sharp 1.4-inch AMOLED screen is round and is therefore more reminiscent of a classic watch. Thanks to the numerous functions such as navigation with GPS, altimeter and the correct display of route lengths, the smartwatch is also ideal for hiking or other activities. 30 sports apps, animated workouts, training with over 1,400 exercises and much more are at your disposal.
According to the manufacturer, in everyday mode, the fitness watch offers a battery life of up to 14 days, which is five days longer than the previous model. You can also keep an eye on important health data with this smartwatch, as it monitors your heart rate, ECG, blood pressure and analyzes your sleep quality. You can also receive calls and reply to messages conveniently using the smartwatch.
Price-performance tip: Smartwatch from Google
The test result: Just like the Garmin smartwatch, the Google Pixel Watch 2 achieved the “test” quality rating of “good (1.8)”. However, unlike its competitor, it can only be connected to the Android operating system. It is characterized by very good ratings in the areas of communication as well as stability and security.
Product details: The Google Pixel Watch 2 features a razor-sharp AMOLED display. Weighing just 31 grams, it is significantly lighter than its predecessor model. The quick charge feature allows the watch to be fully charged in just 80 minutes.
The smartwatch’s sensors record various health data such as pulse, heart rate, perform an ECG and analyze sleep and menstrual cycle. It also has fall detection for emergencies and skin temperature measurement, similar to the Apple Watch.
The Pixel Watch 2 uses Google’s Wear OS as the operating system, which offers the advantage of having a variety of watch faces and apps available. According to the manufacturer, the battery lasts more than 20 hours on one charge, and in the test it even lasted an impressive 46 hours without training mode.
The price tip: Smartwatch from Xiaomi
The test result: The Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro also ends up in the top field with the “test” quality rating “good (2.3)”. The watch scores with a long battery life and good handling. There are deductions in the communication category.
Product details: The fitness watch from Xiaomi is the price tip among smartwatches. It offers many features such as GPS, altimeter and sleep monitoring, but is cheaper than the top models. With the smartwatch it is also possible to pay contactless.
In total, Xiaomi’s smartwatch supports over 100 sports such as running, cycling, swimming in the pool and more through various training modes. The watch is also waterproof. Swimming and snorkeling in the water shouldn’t be a problem.
The Xiaomi smartwatch supports all common smartphones with Android or iOS. Special advantages: According to the manufacturer, the battery should last up to 14 days on a single charge under normal use.
Our conclusion on the smartwatch test: The Apple Watch cannot be beat
The best smartwatch currently available with the most functions and features is the Apple Watch Series 9. The model is the first choice for iPhone users. Android users get with the Garmin Venu 3 a good alternative with a wide range of functions for sports and everyday life.
It becomes cheaper for Android users with the Google Pixel Watch 2. It shines in the test in the communication category and offers many sensors for monitoring a wide range of vital signs. The price tip from Stiftung Warentest is: Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro.
Frequently asked questions about smartwatches
Does a smartwatch also work without a cell phone?
Yes. You can also use basic functions without a cell phone. For example, the time, fitness functions, appointments and saved music are usually available without a cell phone. However, the smartwatch is intended as an extension to the smartphone. For functions that require an Internet connection, you need your cell phone nearby on most models.
Do I need a smartwatch with LTE reception?
Some top models from manufacturers have an integrated LTE function. This means that the smartwatch connects to the mobile network and can receive data and make phone calls even without a cell phone. However, you will have to pay additional fees to your mobile phone provider for this feature (usually around 5 euros per month). The function is practical if you jog a lot and want to stream music on the go or if you don’t want to miss a call without a cell phone. For most users, a smartwatch without LTE function is sufficient.
Apple Watch oder Android-Smartwatch?
The choice depends on your cell phone. If you own an Android smartphone, you can choose from a large selection of models. The Apple Watch is reserved for iPhone users. It can only be paired with an Apple smartphone. In order to be able to use the full range of functions of the watches, it is recommended to always stick with your own operating system.
Which functions are important for a good smartwatch?
Think about what use you need the watch for. If you primarily want to see notifications from your phone, you may not need many fitness features. If you run a lot, a heart rate monitor and GPS module make sense. Every good smartwatch should have these features:
- a bright display so you can read the watch even in sunlight
- a battery life of at least one day
- for sports a GPS module and heart rate monitor
- a waterproof case
- a scratch-resistant display
How often do I need to charge a smartwatch?
Depending on the model and application, the battery of common smartwatches lasts one to three days on a single charge. The Apple Watch lasts one to two days, but also offers a lot of functions. The GPS function is particularly crucial for battery life, as it requires a lot of energy. If the GPS module is integrated into the watch and you jog a lot, the battery will run out more quickly. Many manufacturers therefore do without their own module in the watch and transmit the signal from the cell phone. Then the battery lasts longer, but you also have to have your cell phone with you when running to track the route.