Best Smartwatches for iPhone (Besides Apple Watch)

The Apple Watch is the default smartwatch for iPhone, but it's not the only option. Several other watches work with iOS, and some beat the Apple Watch on battery life and price.

Why consider an alternative

The Apple Watch's biggest downside is its one-to-two-day battery. Alternatives from Garmin, Fitbit, and others offer week-long battery life at a lower price, though with fewer iPhone integrations.

The trade-offs on iPhone

• Non-Apple watches can't reply to texts the way an Apple Watch can
• Some notifications and features are limited on iOS
• But you gain battery life and often save money

What to look for

Check iOS compatibility carefully, since features vary. For fitness and long battery, a Garmin or Fitbit makes sense. For deep iPhone integration, the Apple Watch remains the best choice.

Buy an Apple Watch if you want full iPhone integration, or a Garmin or Fitbit if you prioritize battery life and fitness tracking over messaging.