When it comes to sales, the Apple Watch is the world’s best-selling smartwatch there is. This is of course, great news for iPhone users looking to accessorize and sync things up. But what about those individuals who prefer Android phones?
Hi, my name is Chris and I’ve been an avid tech and gadgets fan for upwards of 15+ years. I happen to own an Apple Watch and love it but I’m not blind to the plight that Android users face.
In this article, you’ll discover what I think are the best smartwatches available for Android smartphones. Be that for style, fitness, budget, or any other occasion.
Let’s jump into it.
Contents
Best Apple Watch Alternatives for Android Users
Unfortunately, the Apple Watch does not work with Android smartphones. This has the potential to change in the future but as of now, users looking for an Android-compatible smartwatch will need to look elsewhere.
Thankfully, there are plenty of options Android users have from which to choose.
1. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic
When it comes to both style and function, the Samsung Galaxy Watch beats every other Apple Watch alternative out there. Samsung Galaxy has combined the functional necessities of a smartwatch with the sophistication of the everyday professional.
Consequently, the Galaxy doesn’t run on the Android OS. Instead, opting to utilize Samsung’s own OS, Tizen. But this matters not, as it remains compatible with the Android platform.
This fancy smartwatch is also an excellent fitness tracker. Allowing users to track steps, heart rate, how many calories burned, and much more. Without a doubt, the best overall Apple Watch alternative for the Android enthusiast.
2. SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch Active 2
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2 is a prime choice when looking for an Apple Watch alternative where health and fitness are in mind. It’s only a slight step up from the Active in terms of style but does have a few upgrades over its predecessor.
Sensors have been improved so that tracking is smoother and more precise. The Active2 comes with two sizes to choose from (40mm and 44mm) to ensure a better fit over the one size fits all take of the Active. The Active2’s biggest addition is the optional LTE connectivity. Though, if I’m being honest, it’s a real drain on the battery life.
Android users in need of a fitness-first smartwatch should definitely look into the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2. You’ll be able to monitor your sleep, heart rate, steps, and receive real-time coaching, all while doing so in style.
3. Fitbit Versa 2
Sticking with the fitness first approach, the BitBit Versa 2 is every bit as good as the next smartwatch.
Well, so long as you only require it for getting in shape and staying in shape. It’s a hybrid of sorts, providing the basic functions of a standard smartwatch with the fitness tracking capabilities you’d expect.
The Versa 2 is a great option for someone just getting into using smartwatches and doesn’t want to spend too much. You can use it to count steps, calculate how many calories you’ve burned throughout the day, monitor your heart rate, and a few other get fit options.
It also has the option to pay without the need of a wallet, controls music playback, and allows the reading of push notifications. With Google’s acquisition, the potential for the Fitbit Versa smartwatch line is exponential.
I would keep an eye out for future FitBits, but in the meantime, the Fitbit Versa 2 fits the bill quite nicely. Though, one could argue that the FitBit Sense might be a better purchase for a dedicated fitness tracker.
4. TicWatch Pro 3 GPS Smart Watch
When looking for a smartwatch that is both functional and reliable, the TicWatch Pro 3 definitely delivers. It’s one of the fastest non-Apple smartwatches on the market thanks to the Snapdragon 4100 processor.
TicWatch Pro 3 comes with all of the standard high-end smartwatch bells and whistles: onboard GPS, NFC for payments, fitness functions, and more. One of the more interesting features is the inclusion of a lower-power LCD screen placed directly on top of the regular screen.
Some users just looking for a cheaper alternative may prefer the TicWatch E2. It is also a great smartwatch in its own right and is a bit lighter on price for those on a budget.
However, it utilizes the older Snapdragon 2100 chip. This, along with only providing basic functions, has it pale in comparison to the TicWatch Pro 3 in almost all aspects.
5. Amazfit Bip U
Although the Bip S edges it out slightly on performance and function and the Pro version blows both out of the water, it’s the cost-effectiveness that lands the Bip U on the list. Specifically for an alternative on a budget, the Amazfit Bip U is an affordable option with excellent battery life from an emerging smartwatch brand.
Amazfit Bip U has all that you’d expect a basic level smartwatch to have: heart rate, steps, blood-oxygen level monitoring, push notification reading capability, among other things.
Thankfully, you can also sync it with apps like Google Fit and Strava as the Bip U doesn’t have any apps itself.
Sadly, if you want to make phone calls you’ll need to whip out the old smartphone as the Bip U also lacks this feature. However, at this price tag, one could argue you get a whole lot for very little. Those looking for a quick and easy purchase without breaking your wallet will do just fine with the Amazfit Bip U.
Thoughts?
Even though the Apple Watch may be the best-seller worldwide, as you can see, Android users are not left in the dark.
At the end of the day, there are far more alternatives for Android users in the smartwatch department than even Apple is provided. Far more than can be written about in a single article.
If you feel that there are other watches that are better alternatives, I would love to hear about them in the comments section. Until next time!
