Do Smartwatches Need a Data Plan?

Most smartwatches don't need a data plan; they connect to your phone over Bluetooth and use its connection. Only cellular models, which work independently of your phone, require a plan.

What cellular gets you

A cellular smartwatch can take calls, stream music, and get notifications without your phone nearby. That's useful for runners who want to leave the phone at home, and for anyone who wants to be reachable without carrying a phone.

The cost

Cellular service for a watch usually costs $10 to $15 per month on top of your phone plan. Over two years, that's a meaningful amount, so it's worth asking whether you'll really use it.

The decision

• You run or exercise without your phone: cellular is worth it
• Your phone is always nearby: skip cellular and save the monthly fee
• You want a safety backup: cellular adds peace of mind

For most people, a Bluetooth-only watch is enough, since the phone is rarely far away. Buy cellular only if you specifically want to leave your phone behind.