Top Apple Watch Alternatives in 2025

If you're in the market for a smartwatch but Apple Watch models just don't quite fit your needs, you're in luck: There are plenty of fantastic alternatives available. Perhaps you don't own an iPhone, or you're looking for a more budget-friendly option. Whatever your reason, it's great to know that there are numerous top smartwatches that offer excellent features and performance without the Apple design – or price tag.

TL;DR – These Are the Best Apple Watch Alternatives:

Our Top Pick### Samsung Galaxy Watch 7

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### Google Pixel Watch 3

0See it at Amazon### Garmin Venu 3

2See it at AmazonSee it at Target### Fitbit Sense 2

0See it at AmazonSee it at Target### Amazfit Active 2

0See it at Amazon### Garmin Enduro 3

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro

0See it at Amazon### TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4

1See it at TAG HeuerGiven that an Apple Watch doesn't play nicely with Android systems, anyone who doesn't buy into the Apple ecosystem should explore the multitude of other smartwatches that can seamlessly integrate with alternative platforms, giving you access to your notifications, fitness tracking, and contactless payments. If you're primarily interested in health and fitness metrics, some wearables are specifically designed to help you monitor your workouts, sleep, and overall wellness.

1. Samsung Galaxy Watch 7

The Best Apple Watch Alternative

Our Top Pick### Samsung Galaxy Watch 7

0The Google Wear OS-powered Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 offers advanced tracking, a vibrant AMOLED display, and decent battery life. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsScreen size40mm, 44mmHeart rateYesGPSYesCellularYesBattery Life~24 hoursStorage32GBSwimproofYesDust resistantYesPROSClassic and sleek circular watch designNew BioActive sensors improve accuracyCONSAI health features exclusive to Samsung Galaxy phonesThe Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 stands out as the best Android smartwatch, combining comfort, style, and functionality. The latest model features a minimalist band and a sharp, circular, responsive AMOLED touch display, maintaining the classic timepiece look. A new gesture feature enhances one-handed functionality, reducing the need to constantly tap the screen.

With a wide array of advanced sensors, the watch monitors skin temperature, ECG, and blood oxygen saturation, alongside reliable automatic exercise detection and solid sleep tracking. The new BioActive sensor boosts the accuracy of these metrics. Samsung has further enhanced the watch's capabilities with features like sleep apnea detection, similar to the Apple Watch Series 10. Additional AI health tools, including an Energy Score, provide valuable health insights, though these are limited to Galaxy phones like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.

The watch's performance is powered by a reliable 3-nanometer Exynos chip, ensuring smooth operation across the board. When paired with Google’s Wear OS and Samsung One UI skin, the experience is seamless, giving you access to a wide range of apps. However, the battery life remains at an average of about 24 hours with typical use, which, while not ideal, is still better than the Apple Watch Series 10.

Customization is a breeze with various color options, 40mm and 44mm sizes, and swappable watch bands and faces. Connectivity options include Bluetooth via the Samsung Galaxy Wearable app or cellular connectivity.

2. Google Pixel Watch 3

Best Casual Apple Watch Alternative

### Google Pixel Watch 3

0Google's latest smartwatch boasts a display that's twice as bright and lasts up to 36 hours in battery saver mode. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size41mm, 45mmHeart rateYesGPSYesCellularYesBattery lifeUp to 24 hours (36 hours with battery saver mode)Storage32GBSwimproofYesDust resistantYesPROSTwo sizes availableSleek, modern designCONSBattery life remains unchanged from the Pixel Watch 2The Google Pixel Watch 3 is a game-changer in the smartwatch world, offering a sleek design with cutting-edge features to help you stay on top of your fitness goals and daily routine. Its 45mm screen is twice as bright and 40% larger than its predecessor, making it easier to view your stats and information at a glance, whether you're on a run or checking your messages.

For runners, the Pixel Watch 3 is packed with features to enhance your workouts. You can create custom runs, receive real-time guidance, and track your form with advanced metrics. With Fitbit Premium, Google AI considers your goals, past runs, and fitness readiness to offer personalized recommendations, making every run more effective and tailored to your needs. The readiness feature helps you understand your body's capacity each day, guiding you on whether to push hard or focus on recovery.

Beyond fitness, the Pixel Watch 3 seamlessly integrates with your life. It offers 24 hours of battery life with an always-on display, extending to 36 hours in Battery Saver mode. You can access Google Maps offline, use Google Wallet for payments, and even control your Pixel camera from your wrist. Whether you're listening to music with Pixel Buds or checking your Nest Cam feed, this watch makes staying connected simple and convenient.

3. Garmin Venu 3

Best Apple Watch Alternative for iPhone Users

### Garmin Venu 3

2The Garmin Venu 3 goes beyond exercise tracking, GPS, and phone notifications with a unique Body Battery tool and advanced fitness features. See it at AmazonSee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsScreen size41mm, 45mmHeart rateYesGPSYesCellularNoBattery LifeUp to 14 daysStorage8GB SwimproofYesDust resistantYesPROSLong battery lifeNo subscription needed for health metricsCONSApps aren’t very intuitiveFeaturing a sharp AMOLED display and impressive battery life, the Garmin Venu 3 is an excellent choice for iPhone users (or anyone) seeking robust fitness options and a circular watch design.

It includes the expected smartwatch features like accurate GPS, phone notifications, music, fitness tracking, and heart rate monitoring, along with the upgraded Body Battery tool. This tool offers insights into when you should work out, adds nap detection, sleep coaching, and even tracks wheelchair use, just scratching the surface of its fitness functionality.

The Venu 3 is versatile and offers features the Apple Watch can't, though it lacks cellular connectivity, requiring pairing with a smartphone to maximize its capabilities.

4. Fitbit Sense 2

Best Apple Watch Alternative for Fitness

### Fitbit Sense 2

0The Fitbit Sense 2 by Google offers a wealth of health and fitness data, perfect for monitoring your stats and fitness. See it at AmazonSee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsScreen size40.1mmHeart rateYesGPSYesCellularNoBattery LifeUp to 6 daysStorageN/ASwimproofYesDust resistantYesPROSWorks with Android and iPhoneStress monitoringCONSNo third-party appsFor those focused on fitness, the Fitbit Sense 2 (by Google) is the smartwatch of choice and one of the best Fitbits overall. It's equipped with useful fitness sensors, including GPS to track activities with over 40 exercise modes, a skin temperature sensor to monitor body heat, and continuous ElectroDermal Activity (cEDA) for stress tracking. Its water-resistant design makes it ideal for swimming laps in a pool.

The Fitbit Sense 2 boasts an impressive six-day battery life and works with the Amazon Alexa voice assistant for real-time updates and Google Wallet for quick, contactless payments.

5. Amazfit Active 2

Best Budget Apple Watch Alternative

### Amazfit Active 2

0The wallet-friendly Amazfit Active 2 offers extensive health and fitness tracking along with a GPS. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size44mmHeart rateYesGPSYesCellularNoBattery LifeUp to 10 daysStorageNot listedSwimproofYesDust resistantYesPROSGreat value Handy strength training modeCONSNFC support costs extraFor under $100, the Amazfit Active 2 provides numerous sensors, over 160 sports modes, and a GPS to meet every health and fitness tracking need. Its unique strength training mode automatically recognizes different moves, and an AI coach can guide workouts. Downloadable maps enhance functionality, offering turn-by-turn directions without a smartphone connection. While not as precise as an Apple Watch or Galaxy Watch, its accuracy is commendable for the price.

Running on Zepp rather than Google’s Wear OS or Apple’s watchOS, the Amazfit Active 2 still offers a range of apps and faces. The software is user-friendly, and an AI assistant, similar to Siri, helps adjust settings and reply to messages. However, NFC support incurs an extra cost. There’s no cellular connectivity, but the watch easily connects to iPhones or Androids via Bluetooth.

The Amazfit Active 2 maintains a sleek, simple design with a circular, stainless steel body that feels premium. Its 1.32-inch AMOLED display is responsive and visible in various lighting conditions. Its lightweight build ensures comfort, and with up to 10 days of battery life, it's one of the best budget fitness trackers available.

6. Garmin Enduro 3

Best Battery Life in an Apple Watch Alternative

### Garmin Enduro 3

0The Garmin Enduro 3 boasts an epic battery life, brilliant maps, and a wealth of fitness features to go the distance. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsScreen size51mmHeart rateYesGPSYesCellularNoBattery Life90 days smartwatch mode, 320 hours GPS mode with solar powerStorage32GB SwimproofYesDust resistantYesPROSIncredible battery lifeAdvanced GPS and map featuresCONSClunky for smaller wristsMost smartwatches struggle to last 24 hours, with the Apple Watch Series 10 averaging about 18 hours, dropping further with constant GPS tracking. The Garmin Enduro 3, however, can survive weeks or even months on a single charge, depending on usage. With a unique Power Sapphire lens for solar power-saving, it can achieve 90 days of charge in smartwatch mode or 320 hours in GPS mode under optimal lighting conditions. Even without solar power, its battery life significantly outlasts other smartwatches.

In addition to its battery prowess, this smartwatch excels in GPS tracking and running features. From topo maps and grade-adjusted pace to a new dynamic round-trip routing feature that adapts your route to stay on schedule, it’s built for the long haul. Updated sensors provide accurate health and wellness insights, and it includes all the tracking and sports modes you could need. While app notifications, calls, and music playback are somewhat limited, the focus is firmly on fitness.

The Garmin Enduro 3 is crafted for adventurers, with a durable titanium body and bezel, and 100m water resistance ideal for diving and swimming. Its touch display, though not as flashy as others, remains reliable and easy to view. Multiple buttons around the watch simplify navigation, especially when wearing gloves. Garmin even includes a tiny LED flashlight for nighttime trail use. Just be aware that this feature-rich watch might feel a bit bulky on smaller wrists.

Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro – Photos

View 8 Images7. Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro

Best Rugged Apple Watch Alternative

### Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro

0Designed for rugged outdoor use, the Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro features GPS map support and a "Track Back" feature for navigating wilderness. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size45mmHeart rateYesGPSYesCellularYesBattery LifeUp to 80 hoursStorage16GBSwimproofYesDust resistantYesPROSTitanium caseGreat for outdoor enthusiastsCONSOne size doesn’t fit allInstead of the Apple Watch Ultra, opt for the Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro, which we reviewed and gave high marks, especially for its rugged outdoor capabilities. At 45mm, this Android smartwatch is tailored for adventure and outdoor activities, featuring GPS map support and Samsung’s "Track Back" for finding your way if lost in the wilderness.

Constructed from durable Titanium and Sapphire crystal glass, its long-lasting battery can provide up to 80 hours of use per charge. Starting at $450, the Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro is also nearly 45 percent less expensive than the Apple Watch Ultra or Apple Watch Ultra 2.

8. TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4

Best Luxury Apple Watch Alternative

### TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4

1The TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4, with its premium build, high price tag, and essential smartwatch and health tracking features, is perfect for luxury enthusiasts. See it at TAG HeuerProduct SpecificationsScreen size42mm, 45mmHeart rateYesGPSYesCellularNoBattery LifeUp to 24 hoursStorage8GBSwimproofYesDust resistantYesPROSStunning designSmooth, consistent performanceCONSSmart features are more subduedFor those for whom money is no object, TAG Heuer offers a stunning smartwatch that doubles as a classic timepiece. The Connected Calibre E4 features a crisp, clear touch display behind sapphire crystal, with a body made of durable steel or titanium and ceramic. Its meticulous attention to detail, including sandblasted and polished elements on the frame, delivers a truly premium feel. TAG Heuer’s collection of watch faces is equally impressive. A sturdy rubber crown and additional buttons enhance navigation without relying solely on the touchscreen.

While its aesthetics are a standout, the Connected Calibre E4 also includes all expected smartwatch features. Fitness tracking and workouts are accessible via the TAG Heuer Sports app, and the watch is renowned for its golf app, offering maps, distance, and other tools. However, it's lighter on sensors, featuring only a heart rate monitor, compass, and barometer, though it does include a GPS for mapping walks, runs, and more.

Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 4100+ processor and Google WearOS, the watch provides smooth, consistent performance and seamlessly connects to Android devices, while also working well with the best iPhones. Although it can receive notifications, it can't answer calls. Its battery life, similar to the Apple Watch Series 10, lasts around a day depending on usage. While its smart features are more subdued, it's an unbeatable choice for luxury.

What to Look for in an Apple Watch Alternative in 2025

The Apple Watch might be the most popular smartwatch globally, but many people seek alternatives for their unique functions, styles, or more affordable prices. Android smartphone users, in particular, can't use the Apple Watch due to compatibility issues. With a wide range of Apple Watch alternatives, selecting the best smartwatch can be daunting. IGN experts have compiled a guide to simplify the process.

Compatibility

Although Apple Watch alternatives run on different operating systems, Google WearOS is the most popular, compatible with both iOS and Android devices via smartphone apps and Bluetooth. However, some brands like Samsung and Google restrict their watches to Android smartphones. Ensure your smartphone is compatible with your chosen smartwatch.

Usability

The distinction between fitness trackers and smartwatches has blurred, but they serve different primary purposes. A fitness tracker is smaller and focuses on tracking health goals, such as heart rate, steps, calories burned, and blood oxygen levels, with specific workout modes. For example, the Fitbit Sense 2 is a fitness tracker with some smartwatch features like notifications and contactless payments, but its core function is health and fitness monitoring.

A smartwatch is typically larger, resembling a traditional watch, and handles additional tasks like notifications, emails, messaging, and maps. While it can track fitness and health, it may not offer the detailed, workout-specific data of a fitness tracker. Choose a fitness tracker for gym use, and a smartwatch for broader functionality.

Price

One of the Apple Watch's drawbacks is its price, with the least expensive model, the Apple Watch SE, starting at $249. However, alternatives like the Amazfit Active 2 can be found for as little as $100. Many alternatives offer similar features at lower prices, with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 being the closest comparison to the Apple Watch.

Style

Many seeking Apple Watch alternatives are dissatisfied with its rounded-corners square design. Brands like Samsung, Google, Garmin, and others have introduced circular designs, appealing to those who prefer traditional watch aesthetics. For a circular design, consider the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 or Google Pixel Watch 3, which resemble classic watches yet offer similar functionalities to the Apple Watch. iPhone users looking for a round design should consider the Garmin Venu 3 or TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4, both compatible with iPhones and stylish.

Apple Watch Alternatives FAQ

What's the difference between a smartwatch and a fitness tracker?

Both smartwatches and fitness trackers focus on tracking health and fitness, using various sensors for insights. Smartwatches extend this with additional features like app notifications, phone call support, and music playback, featuring larger screens and often GPS support. Some offer cellular connectivity at an extra cost. Fitness trackers typically have better battery life due to their smaller size and more limited features, though there's considerable overlap between the two.

Do all smartwatches support cellular service?

Not all smartwatches offer cellular service, though the Apple Watch does. Alternatives like the Google Pixel Watch and Samsung Galaxy Watch provide this option, but at an additional cost for the watch and a monthly fee on your phone bill. Even without cellular, many smartwatches can perform typical smartphone functions like receiving notifications, responding to texts, and answering calls when connected via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Without internet access, a smartwatch's utility is limited.

Do I need a smartphone to use a smartwatch?

While a smartphone isn't always necessary to use a smartwatch, it's highly recommended. Some smartwatches with cellular support can function independently like small smartphones. However, without this connectivity, most smartwatch features are inaccessible or less useful without a connected phone.