Smartwatches are great smartphone companions, and when it comes to Android device users, there are plenty of wearables to choose from. While the Apple Watch is likely to be one of the first options many consumers consider when searching for a new smartwatch, it is not designed for use with Android phones. However, that's not to say you can't find a decent alternative, or one that's even better than the Apple Watch in some departments, including battery life.
In spite of the increased choice available on the Android side of the smartwatch fence, the Apple Watch continues to dominate and lead the market. While there is a case to be made that Android smartwatches have lagged behind the Apple Watch, many offer some of the same advanced features. Apple unveiled the original Apple Watch in 2015 as its next revolutionary product, and has released multiple newer models with improvements, new features and more intuitive software since then. This upgrade cycle and similar design makes it clear what the latest Apple Watch offers, while the muddy waters of the Android watch market can sometimes prove harder to navigate.
Similar to Apple, Samsung has built its own ecosystem in recent years. The Galaxy Watch 3 is Samsung's latest smartwatch and it includes some features exclusive for Galaxy smartphone users. Samsung's watch comes with a traditional round watch face and is available in 41mm and 45mm sizes, with the former available in a Mystic Bronze colorway that is not offered in other smartwatches. Keeping pace with Apple's Watch Series 6, the Galaxy Watch 3 also features sleep tracking, an electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor, and a blood oxygen monitor. However, the Galaxy Watch 3 is superior in battery life, considering it can last up to 56 hours compared to the Series 6's 18 hours. Another option worth considering is the Fitbit Sense. Advertised as an "advanced health smartwatch," the Fitbit Sense is only available in 40mm and has a square watch face. However, it does include all the latest health tracking features and, unlike the Galaxy Watch 3 or Apple Watch Series 6, the Fitbit Sense has two extra sensors to measure skin temperature and sweat to determine stress levels. The Fitbit Sense's battery is also said to be able to last for a minimum of six days.
More Apple Watch Battery-Beating Smartwatches
Huawei releases some of the most innovative smartphones, and the same can be said for its smartwatches. The Huawei Watch GT 2 Pro comes in 46mm and has a premium round watch face with a wear-resistant sapphire dial. It also includes all the latest health and fitness features, but its biggest advantage is the unbelievable two-week battery life that's on offer. Although Huawei is unable to do business with American companies including Google, the Huawei Watch GT 2 Pro remains compatible with Android devices. For fitness-minded Android users, Garmin's vivoactive 4 is another great option. It is available in 40mm and 45mm sizes with a traditional round watch face. Similar to Fitbit, Garmin has been in the fitness tracking industry for years, and the Garmin vivoactive 4 has all the tools required to suit an active lifestyle, while also offering plenty of essential smartwatch features, including offline audio listening and contactless payments. Best of all, Garmin's vivoactive 4 is rated to last up to eight days before needing a charge.
It is clear that Apple Watch lacks the battery life compared to many Android-compatible smartwatches. However, if Apple was to make the Apple Watch more compatible with Android devices, it could prove to be the conclusive choice for anyone looking to purchase a new smartwatch. The Apple Watch is simply a great all-around smartwatch and it is only going to get better, but that shouldn't take away from any of the great already available Android-supported watches.