Wrist Candy 2.0 – The Hottest Smartwatches of the 2023

When we said “he Hottest Smartwatches of the 2023”, we weren’t talking about your grandpa’s wristwatch. Here, we’re talking about the trendsetting wearables that strut their stuff with more style than a runway model during Fashion Week. A couple of months ago, we covered the top smartwatches of 2023, but the list wasn’t enough as Google recently launched its masterpiece, the Pixel Watch 2, and we’re back again with watches that know how to strike a pose!

Apple Watch Ultra 2

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the rugged maverick of the Apple Watch family. The smartwatch flexes its muscles with longer battery life and a build tougher than a stale loaf of grandma’s bread. The Ultra 2 watch isn’t just another smartwatch; it’s your companion in conquering the great unknown. The bright orange button that screams, “Push me for adventure!” is like the Bat Signal, but for when you’re lost in the woods. 

Under the hood, the Ultra 2 boasts the S9 SiC chip – not just a chip, but a silicon wizard that makes Siri do backflips and your device track directions better than the GPS guy at every Indian nukkad. The watch boasts the best cellular connectivity with two speakers and a three-microphone array. Sure, it’s a bit pricey, but it is loaded with features that practically drive you to function like a superhero.

Google Pixel Watch 2

The first Google Pixel Watch stumbled out of the gate like a newborn giraffe learning to walk, but Google played fairy godparent and sprinkled some magic updates over the past year. Now, the Pixel Watch 2 is the talk of the town; to be honest, it’s the Captain America of wearables. Auto-start workouts? Check. Auto-stop detection? You got it. Fall detection, SpO2 measurements, and a Fitbit app makeover that’s prettier than a sunset? Consider it done.

Google even threw in a Safety Check feature, turning your watch into your own personal SOS signal. If you vanish from the world for too long, your emergency contacts will know where to send the search party. The Body Response feature plays therapist, distinguishing between good and bad stress and offering solutions that don’t involve raiding the chocolate stash. It’s like having a tiny life coach on your wrist, minus the cheesy motivational speeches.

Speaking of looks, the smartwatch is the Ryan Gosling of the tech world – Sleek, stylish, and super comfy on the wrist. And when it comes to health and fitness, it’s not just a pretty face. The workout screen is like a personal trainer on speed dial, delivering the vital stats faster than you can say, “Do I really need that second doughnut?” However, there are a few cons, too, like the battery life; it is like that friend who promises to stay for the party until midnight but leaves an hour after welcome drinks.

And if it goes kaput, you’ll be waving it goodbye and ordering a replacement faster than you can say, “Google, why do you do this to me?” Oh, and don’t even get me started on the proprietary charger situation. It’s like Google’s way of saying, “We know you love us, but let’s keep this relationship complicated.” Despite its imperfections, the Pixel Watch 2 is the phoenix rising from the ashes of its predecessor, proving that sometimes, the sequel is the real star of the show.

Garmin Venu 3S

The Garmin Venu 3S is the Swiss Army knife of smartwatches, here to whip your health, fitness, and performance into shape! It’s your personal drill sergeant, life coach, and concert companion rolled into one sleek package. The watch sports a bright AMOLED display and lasts longer than your latest Netflix binge – a whole week, to be precise. Wait, there’s more! Need to accept a call while doing jumping jacks? No problem. The Garmin Venu 3S lets you chat away right from your wrist, turning you into the James Bond of small talk.

The Venu 3S doesn’t just compete with smartwatches; it takes them out for a jog and leaves them huffing and puffing in its dust. It’s armed with features that’ll make your Apple Watch and Samsung Galaxy Watch blush. So, if you’re ready to endure a journey of fitness, fashion, and futuristic functionality, the Garmin Venu 3S is your ticket to the wearable wonderland. It’s more than a watch; it’s a lifestyle upgrade with a touch of Garmin magic and a sprinkle of humour to keep you smiling on your journey to becoming the fittest and coolest version of yourself.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic

The Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is a wrist-worn symphony of innovation, sophistication, and a touch of that classic Samsung charm. Fresh from its grand debut at the 2023 Unpacked event, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is armed with the mighty One UI 5 software update. The watch is not all about sleep tracking, fitness finesse, and safety smarts – it also marks the grand return of the Samsung-unique rotating bezel! The Watch 6 Classic offers a daily dose of Samsung magic – because life’s too short for ordinary timepieces.

It’s like having a magic wand on your wrist, waving away mundane tasks with a finger flick. And with longer battery life and sleep-friendly settings, this watch is basically the fairy godmother of wearables – making every moment, from dawn to midnight snack, feel enchanted. The Galaxy Watch 6 Classic comes in not one, but two flavors: 43mm and 47mm. So, if you’re ready to let a touch of luxury, innovation, and a dash of that delightful rotating bezel into your life, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is waiting in the wings for you.

CMF Watch Pro (Review) – Setting the Bar for Budget Smartwatches

Besides Apple, Nothing is the only brand that’s taking its name literally. First, the brand proved it by introducing a smartphone with funky lights on its transparent back, and now they’ve launched a smartwatch under their sub-brand CMF, which stands for Color, Material, and Finish.

The first smartwatch from the CMF by Nothing stays true to its name, it has a vibrant appeal, sustainable material and stylish design. Let’s begin with the packaging because when everyone is going minimal and classy, CMF decided to go beyond and packed the watch in a kinderjoyish way.

The Watch Pro by CMF arrives in a neatly packed (without compromising on funkiness) DVD-shaped cover, which has 3 small sections inside to hold the body, strap and charging cable of the watch. The cover also shows the strap colour of the watch in a prominent way to avoid confusion.

Design

The Watch Pro has a sleek, boxy, yet rounded design with an aluminium body that shines in the light. The Watch Pro has a physical button on the right side to help you with easy access to its features, along with speakers that work smoothly even when you’re in a crowded place.

The smartwatch is offered in three strap colours – orange, dark grey and just grey. The one we received has an orange-coloured strap, making the watch an attention magnet. The strap features the logo of the CMF on a longer strap that has pin buckles.

The watch weighs only 47g and stays put on the wrist. However, it seems a little uncomfortable and sweaty during high humidity and when wearing tightly. The soft silicone strap is durable and skin-friendly but catches a lot of attention as well as dirt, at least in the case of the orange strap.

Set-up

Like most smartwatches, CMF Watch Pro is pretty straightforward and easy to set up. Download the CMF Watch app from the App Store or the Play Store, allow the app a few required permissions, turn on the Bluetooth for pairing with the smartphone, and you’re ready to go.

Display

The smartwatch boasts a hefty 1.96″ AMOLED (410x502p) display that supports up to 600 nits peak brightness. The quality of the display is incredible as it offers enough brightness to help you read messages, the name of the caller and view notifications from a distance. Even in bright sunlight, the display works fine and shows the content. 

The watch is also loaded with an Always-on display mode for a better user experience. The watch offers about 37 watch faces, and most of them are either monochromatic or dipped in orange-theme. The watch faces are divided into four categories – Multifunction, Analog, Digital, and Creative to show time and your activity stats.

Features

The watch offers a number of smart features such as sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen and stress monitoring, activity tracking and several exercise modes, such as walking, running, cycling, basketball, soccer, yoga, hiking and boxing, to keep you posted about the details. 

Verdict

The watch looks fine on the wrist and offers almost every feature a person could ask for. At the starting price of ₹4,499, the Watch Pro is a great deal as it offers decent features and easily works for as many as 10 days on a single charge with an Always-on display. So, if you’re someone who likes to have products with minimalist design and maximum features, then CMF Watch Pro should be on your wrist.

Ratings

⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Smartwatch Buying Guide ft. The Best Smartwatches of 2023 (so far)

Are you ready to dive into the world of smartwatches? With a smartwatch by your side, you’ll be living life in the fast lane, just like James Bond! But before you dive headfirst into the world of smartwatches, there are some things you absolutely must consider. It’s time to decode the secrets of the smartwatch universe and make the right choice for your wrist.

Compatibility

Imagine buying a smartwatch that doesn’t play well with your smartphone – it’s a nightmare, right? Compatibility is your golden ticket to the land of smartwatch bliss. Ensure your smartwatch is compatible with your smartphone’s operating system, whether iOS or Android.

Display

The display is your smartwatch’s soul. Opt for a vibrant, responsive touchscreen that makes interactions a breeze. Whether you’re checking your heart rate, reading messages, or navigating through apps, a stunning display makes all the difference.

Battery Life

Imagine your smartwatch running out of juice mid-adventure. Yes, that’s why battery life is a must-check before buying a smartwatch. Look for a smartwatch that can keep up with your action-packed lifestyle. Some can last a day, while others go the extra mile, lasting up to a week on a single charge. 

Communication

Your smartwatch should allow you to send messages, make calls, and even summon voice assistants with a flick of your wrist. Whether you’re sending coded messages or just ordering pizza, a smartwatch that excels in communication is a must-have for anyone.

Fitness Tracking

A smartwatch is like having a personal trainer on your wrist – minus the yelling! Look for a smartwatch that comes packed with fitness-tracking features. From heart rate monitoring to step counting and even sleep tracking, your smartwatch should be your trusty sidekick on your fitness journey.

Price

Last but not least, the price! While we’d all love to have an unlimited budget for our gadgets, the reality is that we need to be mindful of our finances. Smartwatches come in a range of prices, so make sure to find one that fits your budget without compromising on the essential features. Remember, you don’t need to break the bank to own a smartwatch that suits your needs.

Best Smartwatch – Apple Watch Series 9

  • Price: Starting at ₹41900*
  • Display: 45mm or 41mm Always-On Retina display
  • Water resistance: Yes, swim-proof
  • Battery life: Up to 18 hours, 36 hours in Low Power mode
  • SOS – Emergency SOS, Fall Detection and Crash Detection

Since its debut in 2015, the Apple Watch has transcended timekeeping and has evolved into the undisputed champion of smartwatches. The latest gem in the lineup – the Apple Watch Series 9 marks a leap into a touchless future. It introduces an ingenious “Double Tap” gesture, a digital dance inspired by the Assistive Touch accessibility tool.

With a simple pinch, you can navigate the watch’s complicated interface without the need to lay a finger on the screen. The Series 9 has also harnessed the power of Siri like never before, thanks to the new S9 system-in-package (SiP) processor. Speedier responses are just the beginning, as Siri now lends a helpful ear even when you’re off the grid.

The Series 9 watch boasts a dazzlingly brighter screen that adjusts for nighttime and a slick watchOS 10 facelift. With its focus on Siri and touchless interactions, Apple continues to reign supreme in the smartwatch realm. While sleep-tracking might lag behind competitors, do you have any choice other than to ignore it for a couple of years?

Best Android Smartwatch – Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Series

  • Price: Starting at ₹32,999*
  • Display: Sapphire Crystal – 44mm or 40mm and 47mm or 43mm
  • Durability: 5ATM+IP68/MIL-STD-810H
  • Material: Armor Aluminum and Stainless Steel
  • Other: Sleep Tracking, Infrared Temperature Sensor

With the unveiling of the Galaxy Watch 6 series this year, Samsung once again reaffirms its dominance in non-Apple smartwatches. The iconic spinning bezel once temporarily shelved, makes a triumphant comeback in the 2023 Galaxy Watch 6 Classic. This time, it returns in a sleeker and lighter form, providing an exquisite tactile interface for navigating the new Wear OS 4. 

The display is now brighter, ensuring effortless readability even under the sun’s direct glare. What truly elevates the Galaxy Watch 6 above its predecessors are its revamped health and fitness tracking capabilities. An overnight skin temperature sensor aids in monitoring ovulation and menstrual cycles, while innovative sleep coaching tools offer invaluable insights for achieving better rest. 

The watch also brags irregular heart rhythm monitoring and personalised heart rate zones for optimal cardiovascular tracking, catering to runners’ needs. With enhanced processors, improved battery life, and a pack of optimised wrist apps, the Galaxy Watch 6 series sets a new benchmark and stands as the unrivalled all-inclusive choice, promising an unparalleled experience in the wearable tech arena.

Best Budget Smartwatch – Samsung Galaxy Watch 4

  • Price: Starting at ₹9,999*
  • Display: Corning® Gorilla® Glass with DX+ in 44mm or 40mm
  • Durability: 5ATM+IP68/MIL-STD-810H
  • Material: Armor Aluminum
  • Battery 361mAh or 247mAh

Well, if you had asked, “What’s the best budget smartwatch?” in 2022, I would have said Fitbit Versa 2, but now that the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is available under 10k, I’m changing my statement. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 emerges as a beacon of brilliance in budget-friendly form. Like a siren calling you to the shores of affordable luxury, this timepiece seamlessly combines style, substance, and, most importantly, savings.

With its sleek stainless steel case, vivid AMOLED display, and customisable watch faces, the Galaxy Watch 4 doesn’t just blend in—it stands out. It’s the wristwear equivalent of a tailored suit at a thrift store price. But this smartwatch isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a powerhouse of functionality. It’s your personal wellness guru, boasting health-tracking features like ECG monitoring, SpO2 tracking, and advanced sleep analysis. 

Its fast processor ensures smooth performance, and it syncs seamlessly with your Android device, making it the ideal companion for productivity and play. By offering the Galaxy Watch 4 under 10k, Samsung has woven affordability into a tapestry of innovation, making it the ultimate choice for those who seek both style and savings in their smartwatch experience. It’s time to embrace the future without breaking the bank.

Best Rugged Smartwatch – Garmin Instint 2X Solar

  • Price: Starting at ₹50.490*
  • Connectivity: iOS, Android
  • Display: 40mm, 45mm or 50mm
  • Water resistance: Yes, swim-proof
  • Charging method: Solar power, plug charger
  • Battery life: Unlimited in the sun, 28 days without solar energy

Not all people have time to take care of and charge their smartwatch after every day or two. So, to have them on board, Garmin arrived with Instinct 2X Solar – a beacon of innovation and practicality. At the price of ₹50,490*, this remarkable smartwatch is not merely a timepiece; it’s an all-encompassing companion that combines the rugged reliability of a military-grade device with the futuristic charm of solar-powered technology.

The Instinct 2X Solar is a multitasking marvel that seamlessly transitions between roles: executive assistant, fitness coach, weather oracle, and even a digital wallet. With its enhanced solar panels, it boasts extended battery life, ensuring that you’re never left in the lurch during your adventures or daily grind. It isn’t just any smartwatch; it’s a workhorse, built tough and designed for readability even in the most challenging conditions. 

Its rapid GPS acquisition, military-grade durability, and impressive water resistance of up to 100 meters make it a true outdoor warrior. Sure, like any piece of tech, it has its quirks, but the Instinct 2X Solar’s pros far outweigh the cons.

Best Fitness Freak Smartwatch – Fitbit Sense 2

  • Battery Life: 6days+
  • Display: 1.58 inches, AMOLED, touchscreen
  • Body: Aluminum case/Stainless steel bezel
  • Memory/Media: 4GB, Microphone, Loudspeaker
  • Compatibility: Android and iOS Check supported devices

Elevating the legacy of its predecessor, the Fitbit Sense 2, a true flagship masterpiece, refines the essence of well-being tracking. Its distinguishing feature, the groundbreaking cEDA sensor, ventures boldly into the labyrinth of your stress levels, unveiling its secrets with unprecedented precision. Stress, slumber, cardiac vigour, and physical pursuits all fall under its perceptive gaze, meticulously mapped out on its canvas of knowledge. With an aesthetic that mirrors an artist’s brushstroke, this smartwatch unfurls a vivid story of your daily vitality through its elegant graphs—an essential compass guiding you towards complete holistic well-being. Yet, if your appetite for innovation craves something new and exciting, the recently unveiled Google Pixel Watch 2 beckons with its own promises of technological wonders.

Best Stylish Smartwatch – Fossil Gen 6

  • Battery Life: 24hrs+
  • Body: Stainless steel, Stainless steel
  • Compatibility: Android 6.0+ and iOS 10.0
  • Display: 1.28 inch, AMOLED, Touchscreen
  • Storage: 1GB RAM, 8GB ROM, Microphone, Loudspeaker

For those in pursuit of a smartwatch that harmonises seamlessly with every ensemble adorning your closet, Fossil’s Gen 6 Smartwatches deserve your undivided attention. While Fossil’s reputation for tasteful design precedes them, these timepieces are more than mere fashion statements, boasting an impressive array of cutting-edge features that elevate them to a league of their own.

What sets the Fossil Gen 6 apart isn’t just its aesthetic allure; it’s the technological prowess that lies beneath the surface. Rapid battery charging, swim-proof resilience, and a lightning-fast processor are but a few highlights. These watches have traditionally leaned on style over substance, but beneath the elegant exterior, they’ve undergone a transformation.

The Snapdragon Wear 4100 Plus chipset is fueling their performance, propelling them to a blazing 30% faster speed than their predecessor. Bolstered by 1GB of RAM and 8GB of storage, the Fossil Gen 6 emerges as a powerful and stylish accessory tailored for Android lovers who demand top-tier heart, health, and sleep tracking, all wrapped in an undeniably chic package.

Apple introduces Apple Watch Series 9 & Watch Ultra 2

If you were not living under a rock for the past month then you know the hype around the latest Apple products. The tech giant recently held its mega ‘Wonderlust’ event where it introduced a slew of new products ranging from the Apple Watch Series 9 and the iPhone 15 series. The latest Apple Watch Series 9 showcases impressive upgrades from the previous version including a new ‘Double Tap’ which simply hints that the future is here! Apple also introduced its all-new Apple Watch Ultra 2 at the Wonderlust event. Check all the details about the Apple Watch Series 9 & Apple Watch Ultra 2 below –

Apple Watch Series 9

The latest Apple Watch Series 9 is powered by the latest S9 chip. It has a CPU boasting 5.6 billion transistors and a 60 per cent increase as compared to the series 8 GPU. Apple claims that the Watch Series 9 is 30% faster than its predecessor and rocks an 18-hour battery life. The precision-location-based features have also seen an upgrade as Series 9 comes with ultra wideband chip. The same chipset also enables users to control the music playback on their HomePod with just a simple tap.

Another major upgrade with the Series 9 is that Siri is now processed in the Watch itself resulting in a 25% accuracy bump in the feature. There is also a new Siri-enabled feature called ‘Siri Plus Health’ which enables users to get their health metric updates easily via Siri. Series 9 also features a peak brightness of 2000 Nits and can go as down as 1 nit of brightness. The peak brightness is double that of its predecessor. The Apple Watch Series 9 is the company’s first-ever carbon-neutral device. Apple took a big chunk of the event to note down all the work it is doing to give back to nature. However, relaying important information via a self-indulgent comedy sketch was not the route I expected them to take.

Undoubtedly, the most interesting new feature introduced by Apple in the Watch Series 9 is the ‘Double-Tap’ feature. This function allows users to answer phone calls simply by tapping their index finger and thumb together. The same double-tap feature can be used for various other options in the Series 9 watch. Users get a wide number of options to choose from in the aesthetic arena. The aluminium model is available in the all-new pink colour coupled with starlight, silver, midnight, and product red. Whereas, the stainless steel versions will be available in gold, silver, and graphite versions. It starts at a price of $399 for the GPS variant and $499 for the GPS + Cellular variant.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 

Apple also announced its flagship smartwatch i.e. Apple Watch Ultra 2 at the Wonderlust event. Ultra 2’s design is not much of a departure from the previous iteration and remains the same as the first generation. The Ultra 2 sports a similar Apple S9 chipset as the Series 9.

However, the biggest upgrade on the Apple Watch 2 Ultra has to be the display which can now go up to 3000 nits. This is the brightest display Apple has ever made. Low power mode will allow users to get 72 hours of power out of the watch as per Apple’s claims. The double-tap gesture has also made its way to the Ultra 2. Apple’s flagship rugged watch can be pre-ordered for $799!

 

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Review: A True Companion

2023 is definitely the year where Samsung does not bring in any major upgrades to its existing lineup. First were the Galaxy Flip and Fold 5 which refined the design factor with the devices finally closing without a gap in between. Now, Samsung’s Watch 6 is the latest device to hop on the minor update trend and redefine what the best of Android smartwatch looks and feels like. We’ve been testing the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 44mm LTE (SM-R945F) for nearly a week now and it graciously falls into the ‘Easy To Recommend’ category of devices. This might not be a monumental upgrade from the Galaxy Watch 5 but it undoubtedly is one of the best smartwatches you can buy right now! Jump right in for the full review of the Galaxy Watch 6 – 

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Design

The Galaxy Watch 6 pretty much keeps the same design as last year’s Galaxy Watch 5. There’s the staple two size options here – 40 & 44 mm. I tested out the 44 mm LTE version of the watch with a silver strap. The Watch 6 also gets an interesting Gold colour variant which screams extravagance. Samsung might not have made major changes to the design of the Galaxy Watch 6 but there really is nothing to complain about it either. It is a known form factor which works well & is also comfortable. Even with the 44mm size, users will not feel the watch to be bulky or heavy on their wrists. A good indication of a comfortable smartwatch is when I do not have to remove it while typing my hours away at work, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 excels in that arena. The in-box silicon strap looks premium and feels comfortable. 

While the design factor remains the same, Samsung has now introduced a ‘One-Click’ solution to swap the strap. Users just need to hold the button placed at the base of the band and pull it to remove the strap.  While the general user will most likely not swap the silicon bands often, it is a welcome addition to the smartwatch lineup. 

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Display

Smartwatch displays are pretty much a standard affair. The pack and parcel of the smaller displays include users having to cover the screen with their hands in order to see the finer details under direct sunlight. Samsung fixes this issue and goes miles ahead by 2,000 nits of peak brightness with the Watch 6. The previous iteration only featured 1,000 nits of peak brightness making the Watch 6 a notable upgrade in that aspect. Mumbai’s September bipolar weather sports both heavy rains & bright sunny days; I did not witness any issues while using the watch outdoors in either of those weather conditions.

The Galaxy Watch 6 series uses a Super AMOLED panel across the lineup. However, the size and resolution of these displays are not the same. The 44mm model sports a 1.5-inch 480 x 480 screen whereas the smaller 40mm model rocks a 432 x 432 screen at 1.3-inch. There is nothing but a small 0.1-inch difference between the Watch 5 and Watch 6 but it makes a bigger difference when it comes to a small display. You can scroll around the bezels of the smartwatch which will never NOT be cool! 

Performance & Health Features

There is a plethora of health features on the Galaxy Watch 6. Samsung uses an activity tracking UI which is similar to Apple. Three rings which count your steps, active time, and calories close up every day, and in all honesty, it is fun and simple to follow. Samsung has gone all out when it comes to health features of the Watch 6, including a temperature sensor which automatically measures your skin temperature while you sleep. I tested out the sleep features more than the fitness tracking features on this watch as I am at least consistent with sleeping as opposed to hitting the gym. 

The Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) sensor allows users to scan their skeletal muscle, body water & fat, BMI, basal metabolic rate, and fat mass. It is crazy how far technology has come where we can find complex information about our bodies with just a few clicks on a smartwatch. The automatic workout detection feature remains my favourite feature of this watch. Besides this, Watch 6 offers 24/7 heart rate monitoring, cycle tracking, blood oxygen tracking, ECG, and much more. Samsung Health application allows us to streamline all these features really well. 

It runs on the Exynos W930 dual-core processor clocking in with 1.4GHz speed. The performance here is reliable without any lags or jitters. It is running on Wear OS 4.0 with the prowess of Samsung’s One UI 5.0 layered on top of it. I did not face any problems in the overall UI experience of the Watch 6. Be it notifications or the vibration motor, everything works as expected. Receiving and making calls on the Watch 6 is also smooth sailing. Users can also pair their Galaxy devices with the smartwatch to get a preview of their camera, a feature which came in handy for me while clicking a picture of my dog without alarming her! 

The Galaxy Watch 6 has an exceptionally good battery life for a device which packs in this many features. I am not entirely a fan of always on display on smartwatches as they tend to become a distraction. However, the AOD on the Watch 6 is subtle and does not beg for your attention all the time. I was easily able to get through the day with the AOD feature with 30-40% battery remaining. The watch was connected to my Galaxy S23 throughout the entire testing period and the battery life was simply dependable. The charging experience is also a smooth sail. Ultimately, there is a lot to love and virtually nothing to complain about the Galaxy Watch 6. 

Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 is the best smartwatch for Android users right now. Its extensive health features and simple design make it an easy pick. 

Rating – ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

Redmi Watch 3 Active Review: Optimum Performance!

The Indian smartwatch market is at a saturation point right now. Players like boAt, Nose, and many others offer smartwatches for as cheap as 1K with a passable list of features. However, Xiaomi has not been able to carve a niche for itself in this market segment as they’ve in the smartphone market. Well, that was until now cause I believe the Redmi Watch 3 Active is a game-changer in all aspects. Xiaomi is offering the Redmi Watch 3 Active at an attractive price of Rs 3K and covers a lot of ground when it comes to providing basic features along with an aesthetically pleasing design & a cherry on the top with Bluetooth calling. So, should it be your next smartwatch? Find out below – 

Design: Straightforward

Redmi Watch 3 Active closely resembles an Apple Watch thanks to its rectangular design and soft rounded corners. It is a plastic build watch but looks ultra premium thanks to a non-conductive vacuum metallisation coating. It has a large 1.83-inch display however, it is not heavy by any means. I spend the majority of my time typing content and have to put any watch or bracelet aside whenever I am at work. However, I didn’t need to do that with the Redmi Watch 3 Active as it’s that lightweight at just 41.67 grams. There’s a single button here which works well. Overall, the no-nonsense design of the Redmi Watch 3 Active will attract a lot of eyeballs. You can choose between charcoal black or platinum grey colours. I used the charcoal black variant coupled with an olive-green strap which Xiaomi is selling at Rs 499. However, the black silicone strap you receive in-box of the device is not bad by any means. It is comfortable, however, the mechanism to hook the watch on your wrist might take some getting used to. 

Performance: Beyond Expectations

As a tech reviewer, I have to switch between a lot of devices which require daily charging. Charging devices has become a hassle for all of us but the Redmi Watch 3 Active makes your life easier with its battery prowess. While Redmi promises 12-day battery life for this one, I was able to get 10 days out of the Redmi Watch 3 Active with active BT calling and general fitness tracking. When you take into consideration that this watch offers 24/7 heart rate and SpO2 tracking then the battery life becomes more than just impressive. I did not carry the charging cable for this watch while I was travelling across states for events as there was no fear of the battery running out. 

There are a lot of customization options available for users when it comes to the watch faces. Redmi promises 200+ watch faces but I found myself sticking to the default watch face. The Bluetooth calling feature here is simply awesome as I did not face any issues while receiving calls on the watch for extended hours. Additionally, the speaker volume is good enough for you to not stick the watch to your ear while receiving calls in an indoor environment. I predominantly used the step tracker, heart rate monitor, SpO2, stress and sleep monitor features of the watch. While I am unsure about the accuracy of these parameters, they work well. Additionally, you also get music controls, an alarm, weather updates, and also a theatre mode for uninterrupted film watching. All these features make the Redmi Watch 3 Active a complete package for the price!

Verdict

Redmi Watch 3 Active is an easy choice for people looking for a smartwatch in the 3K price category. It has everything you need coupled with a classy design which makes it a complete package.

Rating – ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Galaxy Unpacked 2023 – Samsung Shines Bright with the Stellar Galaxy Watch 6 Series!

Samsung has once again set the tech world abuzz with its latest unveilings at the Galaxy Unpacked 2023 event. Among the most anticipated releases were the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 and Watch 6 Classic, two impressive wearables combining cutting-edge features and stylish designs.

Galaxy Watch 6

The Galaxy Watch 6 comes in two sizes, catering to diverse preferences. The 44mm variant, available in Graphite and Silver, offers a 1.5-inch Super AMOLED display protected by Sapphire Crystal. On the other hand, the 40mm model, available in Graphite and Gold, boasts a slightly smaller 1.3-inch Super AMOLED display with the same level of protection.

Powered by the Exynos W930 Dual-Core 1.4GHz processor and equipped with 2GB of memory and 16GB of storage, the Galaxy Watch 6 ensures smooth performance and ample space for users to store their favourite apps and content. The impressive battery life of up to 40 hours with Always On Display turned off, and up to 30 hours with it on, guarantees users a reliable and enduring experience.

Price

40mm – BT – ₹29,999
40mm – LTE – ₹33,999
44mm – BT – ₹32,999
44mm – LTE – ₹36,999

Galaxy Watch 6 Classic

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is for those with a penchant for a more classic and sophisticated look. Available in 47mm and 43mm sizes and offered in Black and Silver, the Classic series exudes elegance. The watch features Sapphire Crystal protection, the same Exynos W930 Dual-Core 1.4GHz processor, 2GB of memory, and 16GB of storage, providing the same powerful performance as the standard Watch 6.

Both the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 and Watch 6 Classic run on the Wear OS Powered by Samsung, a collaboration with Google that promises a seamless and intuitive user experience. With these new wearables, Samsung continues to lead the way in the smartwatch market, offering a perfect blend of style and innovation. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a fashion-forward individual, the Galaxy Watch 6 series has something to offer, solidifying Samsung’s position as a trailblazer in the world of wearable technology.

Price

43mm – BT – ₹36,999
43mm – LTE – ₹40,999
47mm – BT – ₹39,999
47mm – LTE – ₹43,999

Hammer Unveils two New Smartwatches, “HAMMER Stroke & ACE Ultra”

The HAMMER has unveiled its latest addition to the wearable market- the HAMMER Stroke & ACE Ultra Calling Smartwatch. Building upon the success of the ACE series, these latest smartwatches boasts cutting-edge technology and meticulous engineering, making them an ideal companion for individuals on-the-go. Featuring a stunning TFT display, both the watches provide crystal-clear visuals that remain easily legible in any lighting condition.

Equipped with advanced fitness tracking systems, the HAMMER Stroke & ACE Ultra Calling Smartwatch stands out in the market. It tracks your steps, calories burned, heart rate, and other vital statistics. With built-in GPS, you can track your route and monitor your progress in real-time.

Commenting on the launch, Rohit Nandwani, Founder and COO of HAMMER, said, “I am thrilled to introduce our latest masterpiece, the Stroke & Ace Ultra Smart Watch. It’s not just a mere accessory, it’s a work of art that harmonizes cutting-edge technology with elegant design. Our team has left no stone unturned in creating a product that surpasses our customers’ expectations. At Hammer, we pride ourselves on delivering innovative and high-quality goods, and the Stroke & Ace Ultra Smart Watch is a true testament to that. It’s a game-changer in the inexpensive smartwatch category, equipped with configurable features and high-performance capabilities that will blow your mind. We are confident that the Stroke & Ace Ultra Smart Watch will be a must-have for tech-savvy customers who demand the best of the best.”

HAMMER Stroke & Ace Ultra Bluetooth Calling Smartwatch: INR 2,199 & 2,999 only

The HAMMER Stroke & Ace Ultra smartwatch is an elegantly designed, modern smart wearable gadget that allows you digital visibility while you’re on the go. Consider it a digital partner, as it assists you from your wrist by receiving notifications for calls, messages, social media updates, your health stats, daily walking goals, and more. It can make calls and send texts with voice commands, thanks to the built-in microphone and speaker.

The 1.96-inch IPS large touchscreen display with 240*282 pixels resolution, less bezel, and peak brightness of 500 nits helps you stay in touch with a tap. The HAMMER Stroke smartwatch is compatible with both iOS and Android devices and can be easily connected to your smartphone using Bluetooth. With a battery life of up to 2 days with bluetooth calling, you can wear it all day without having to worry about recharging. Additionally, Stroke has been rated IP67 for water and dust resistance.

It has built-in 24×7 activity trackers that allow the device to track vitals such as SPO2 levels, Stress Monitor, Heart Rate Monitor, Blood Pressure Monitor, Blood Oxygen, Menstrual Cycle, Breath Training. HAMMER also added that the high-performance smartwatch Stroke comes with an elegant & commanding character, best-in-class features, and software where users can call from the watch directly and even save up to 50 contacts on the watch supported by Bluetooth 5.0.

Interested consumers can buy the product from the official website and on Amazon, Myntra, Flipkart, Reliance Digital, Nykaa, TataCliq, and CRED.

HAMMER expands its ACE series, launches ACE 3.0 Smart Watch

Bolstering its coveted Smart Wearable Range, HAMMER, one of the emerging acoustic brands, has announced the launch of its new ACE 3.0 Smart Watch in India. The latest addition to the affordable and premium-quality smartwatch segment celebrates self-expression and boldly reflects customers’ changing demands and lifestyles.

HAMMER defined the ACE 3.0 Smart Watch as a work of art crafted precisely to reflect the brand’s promise of offering extraordinary products with unique features. Its metallic body and skin-friendly silicone strap exude luxury, making it the perfect companion for anyone who values exclusivity.

The ACE 3.0 Smart Watch packs a punch with its high-performance features. It comes equipped with a high-quality display, providing crisp visuals that elevate the user experience. The watch’s customizable faces allow users to express themselves and make it their own, making it an ideal choice for those who want to stand out from the crowd.

The ACE 3.0 smartwatch has been launched under the new campaign by the brand- #thebigmove. Commenting on the launch, Rohit Nandwani, Founder and COO, HAMMER, said, “We are thrilled to launch the ACE 3.0 Smart Watch, which not only meets but exceeds the expectations of our customers in terms of design, functionality, and affordability.”

HAMMER ACE 3.0 smartwatch is an elegantly designed and modern-age smart wearable gadget that continues the legacy of the Ace series. The latest smartwatch becomes apparent in 1.85-inch IPS large touchscreen display with a peak brightness of 500 nits. The watch comes with a truly advanced calling experience, an in-built speaker, and a microphone with quick access voice assistant.

The watch is installed by a 190 mAh efficient battery that can run continuously for 5 days. Additionally, ACE 3.0 has been rated IP67 for water and dust resistance. It has built-in 24×7 activity trackers, which allow the device to track vitals such as SPO2 levels, heart rate, sleeping and breathing patterns, and sports activity.

HAMMER also added that the High-performance smart watch ACE 3.0 comes with an elegant & commanding character, best-in-class features, and software where users can call from the watch directly and even save up to 50 contacts on the watch over supported with Bluetooth 5.0. Consumers can buy the product from the official website- https://hammeronline.in/ and on Amazon, Myntra, Flipkart, Reliance Digital, Nykaa, TataCliq, and CRED.

NoiseFit Halo Smartwatch Review: The Perfect Blend

Similar to the smartphone market, the smartwatch market has also seen a saturation point in the past few years. Where at one end there are key tech players like Apple and Samsung offering premium smartwatches at a higher price point, at the other end we’ve got smaller brands bringing their A-game with their offerings. One such brand is Noise which has managed to carve a niche for itself in the smartwatch section with devices that are bang for your buck. Noise has now launched its latest smartwatch – NoiseFit Halo at an affordable price of Rs 3,999. With devices priced in the budget section, scepticism around their performance is inevitable to arise. I got my hands on the NoiseFit Halo with a similar scepticism but was taken aback by surprise at its performance and premium look. 

Design & Display

The prominent design aspect of the NoiseFit Halo smartwatch has to be its metallic build. This round dial watch features a metallic build that is barely present at this price point and gives a premium look and feel. The metallic dial is further complimented by multiple strap options ranging from leather to standard silicone. The variant I used was the ‘Forest Green’ version which was aesthetically pleasing, to say the least. Other options include Vintage Brown, Statement Black, Jet Black, Fiery Orange, and Classic Black respectively. The NoiseFit Halo flaunts a 1.43-inch AMOLED circular display with 466x466p resolution. It has the Always On Display support that did not drain the battery too much during my extensive testing of the device. The display is vibrant and gets pretty bright making it fit even for comfortable outdoor usage. The display supports gestures like Tap to Wake and Hold with Palm to turn off the screen. Overall experience with the display was top-notch. The watch comes with an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. 

Performance

All the expected health features such as heart rate monitor, Sp02 sensor, sleep tracker, step tracker, and more are present here. The health features work seamlessly and I did not face any issues or lags while using them. The watch can be paired with the NoiseFit app which has an array of features to explore. There are over 100 watch faces to choose from here along with the ability to add custom watch faces. The device supports Bluetooth calling with Tru Sync feature which allows the smartwatch to pair quickly with your mobile device and provide faster connectivity. The Bluetooth calling experience was hassle-free during my testing of the NoiseFit Halo. The brand promises 7-day battery life without extensive Bluetooth calling for the smartwatch. However, I experienced the device losing 50% of its battery in two-day usage with BT calling turned on for hours. 

Verdict

The NoiseFit Halo is the perfect blend of premium looks and budget pricing. The metallic build makes it stand out from the competition at the Rs 3,999 price point.

Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐

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