Smartwatches have really taken off in recent years with sleek designs, powerful hardware and slick software to boot.
They can do virtually everything your phone can do, from the convenience of your wrist, and it’s no wonder they’re one of the most popular companion devices. The competition to be the best smartwatch is stronger than ever, but we’ve chosen our favorite from the past year, along with two runners-up.
See all the winners of this year’s Tech Advisor Best of 2024-2025 Awards.
Remark: The Apple Watch Series 10 arrived too late for the awards ceremony.
Best new smartwatch of the year – Winner: OnePlus Watch 2R
Mike Sawh / Foundry
Sometimes less is more and while OnePlus ‘R’ models are the downgraded versions of flagships, we generally prefer the Watch 2R.
a smartwatch package that is almost perfect
It may not be available in a smaller size, but the switch to lighter aluminum instead of stainless steel makes a big difference. It’s also cheaper, but there are no major spec downgrades.
With its excellent dual-engine architecture resulting in 100 hours of battery life, dual-band GPS and a 1.43-inch AMOLED display, this is a smartwatch package that is almost perfect.
Read our full OnePlus Watch 2R review.
Best new smartwatch of the year – First runner-up: Google Pixel Watch 3
Mattias Inge
This year, Google gave us what we’ve been asking for since the original Pixel Watch: a choice of sizes.
You can now get a larger 45mm option and the wearable is still one of the best looking on the market, while offering a brighter screen and a wave of new features thanks to Wear OS 5.
Read our full Google Pixel Watch 3 review.
$299.99
$299.99
$299.99
$299.99
Best new smartwatch of the year – Second place: Samsung Galaxy Watch 7
Jon Mundy / Foundry
It may be another case of incremental updates from previous generations, but the Galaxy Watch has been one of the best smartwatches for a long time.
This year’s model refines things further with performance and battery improvements, along with deeper and more accurate health tracking.
Read our full Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 review.
You may also be interested in all the 2023-2024 award winners.
