A smartwatch is much more than an extension of your smartphone: it has such important functions that you can even become dependent on them! However, choosing the right model is essential to avoid frustration.

First of all, you need to understand the difference between smartwatch and smartband. Many novice users confuse the two things and by the time they realize their mistake, it is already too late.

Smartwatch vs Smartband: differences

A smartwatch is a much more independent device and does not need to be connected to a smartphone all the time. In general, its operating system offers practically all the features of a cell phone, with some additional features. It is practically like having a modern phone, only attached to your wrist.

On the other hand, a smartband is a more limited device, containing more basic functions, such as notifications, alarm clock, stopwatch and health functions (heart monitoring, blood pressure measurement, etc.). It usually has an independent app store, as it is not as versatile as a smartwatch.

In other words: if you find an accessory with “band” in the name or description, it means it’s not a smartwatch. Simple to understand, right?

How to choose the ideal smartwatch?

Choosing the ideal gadget for your use depends on a few factors:

• What are your goals when purchasing a smartwatch?
• What's your smartphone?
• How much are you willing to pay?
• What features can't be left out?

People who just want something to track their progress during sports activities can choose more affordable options: a smart band is often enough. On the other hand, if you want to use it to listen to music, install more complex apps and enjoy other extra features, you will probably have to pay a little more.

It is also important to consider the device's operating system: Samsung's Galaxy Watch is fully compatible with Android, allowing you to give remote commands to the device. On the other hand, the Apple Watch is only fully compatible with the iPhone, a premium device from the Apple brand.

An Apple Watch won't pair with any device other than an iPhone; on the other hand, an Android smartwatch is compatible with any other device that supports the operating system. While Android users have several brands to choose from, iOS users are limited to just one.

Finally: time to pay attention to certain details before buying your smartwatch!

Size and design

Some people prefer smaller, minimalist devices, while others prefer something more rugged and flashy. In this case, it’s not just a question of aesthetics, but also of functionality.

A larger smartwatch usually has a larger, better-quality screen; on the other hand, smaller devices tend to have simpler screens. After all, design is a matter of taste and this article has no intention of judging that: choose what suits your style!

Battery life

This is one of the most important features of a smartwatch: battery life determines how long you can leave the gadget away from the charger and ready to use. Unfortunately, the Apple Watch (at least for now) is lacking in this regard: it rarely lasts more than a day or two.

On the other hand, there are options for Android that can work for several days. Citizen CZ Smart PQ2, for example, can last up to 18 days off the charger! Pretty good, right?

The fewer recharge cycles, the longer the battery life will be: keep this in mind when purchasing your device. 

Check out the functions

This is one of the most important steps: does the smartwatch you want have everything you need? Health monitoring, fitness tracking, contactless payments, and many other features may (or may not) be available on the models you're looking for.

Before making any purchase, carefully and calmly analyze all the technical specifications, watch videos on the internet about the devices, compare them and see which ones offer the best cost-benefit ratio.

If possible, test before you buy.

Comfort and practicality are essential. Before closing a deal, how about popping into a physical store, testing out different models, and seeing which one best suits your needs?

Things may often seem perfect on the internet, but in reality they are different: the investment in a device of this type is usually high, which justifies greater caution on the part of consumers.

Check compatibility

Some devices have their own operating systems, which means that before you buy them, you need to check whether they are compatible with your smartphone. Otherwise, you could end up in serious trouble.

Be especially careful with generic Chinese brands: they often use proprietary systems that are strange and not very intuitive. Working with reputable brands is usually a safer bet!

Check out user reviews

Advertising is the lifeblood of business – and there are no better advertisers than customers. Technology platforms such as Newegg, can help you find relevant reviews about product quality.

Some digital influencers or news portals may post advertising posts that appear to be extremely positive reviews. Be careful! Always choose independent sources, without commercial ties.

Take your time during your research. Any and all information, whether positive or negative, should be considered during the selection process.

Final considerations

There are many points to consider before buying a smartwatch, right? It turns out that people still get the devices confused, and they don't know that compatibility issues are so common that they can be annoying.

For this reason, it is advisable to purchase devices from renowned brands: serious companies that make a point of building robust, attractive, reliable gadgets that are compatible with any type of smartphone. After all, if this were not the case, they would record huge revenue losses. 

Furthermore, it is important to determine the purpose of buying a smartwatch: whatever it is, choose the right device for the job and don't be guided solely by price. There is no point in buying a device for training that does not support this type of activity, do you agree?

And you, do you already have yours? Leave the model in the comments and tell us if you like it!