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7 Best Smartwatch Models: Apple, Google, Garmin (2026)
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The best smartwatch doesn’t display the time of day.
Key facts
- That said, the Apple Watch Series 12 ($399) is the best smartwatch for iPhone owners, and Google’s Pixel Watch 5 ($400) is their top pick for Android users
- Why WIRED recommends: The Series 12’s health capabilities are more comprehensive than the Series 11, thanks to a new Health Sensing System and faster S11 chip that increases the breadth, accuracy
- Fast charging gets a boost, too, with 15 minutes offering up to 12 hours of battery life
- While not a major upgrade from its predecessor, the Apple Watch Series 12 is the best everyday smartwatch for most iPhone users
Summary
The best smartwatch can do even more, from tracking your workouts and heart rate to serving as a notification hub and accessing voice assistants. Like many consumer gadgets today, wearables have gotten pricier, driven by several factors, including rising component costs and supply chain pressures. While not a major upgrade from its predecessor, the Apple Watch Series 12 is the best everyday smartwatch for most iPhone users. Why WIRED recommends: The Series 12’s health capabilities are more comprehensive than the Series 11, thanks to a new Health Sensing System and faster S11 chip that increases the breadth, accuracy, and frequency of several health metrics. Fast charging gets a boost, too, with 15 minutes offering up to 12 hours of battery life. The trade-offs: Battery life is still rated at 24 hours, so you’ll need to charge it daily.