There’s a smartwatch for everyone, be it stylish, sporty or discreet. Balqis Lim picks some of the best in the market
PREMIUM SMARTWATCH
This third-generation smartwatch replaces the Apple Watch Series 2, which brought GPS and swim-tracking into the mix. The new Apple Watch also has an improved heart-rate monitoring, faster processor and better Siri support than its predecessor. You can choose from a variety of colour options on the website, as well as the exclusive Nike+ model. Price: From RM1,549 at Apple.com/my.
SLIM STYLE
Take advantage of both beauty and functions with the LG Watch Style. This slim watch has enhanced handwriting recognition, glide typing keyboard, smart reply and emoji support to help you reply. It is equipped with 4GB of storage and 512MB of RAM, dust and water resistant, and supports wireless charging. With Google new voice activation, operation is made simpler. Price: US$149.99 (RM626) at Amazon.com.
TURN THE BEZEL
Available in Classic and rugged Frontier look, Samsung’s Gear S3 has 768MB of RAM and 4GB of internal storage. The rotating bezel makes it easier to scroll the menu, respond to calls, read messages or to go to the app you need. With Samsung Pay on Gear S3, you can easily make payments with your watch — swipe or tap a credit card — even without your phone or wallet. Price: RM1,399 at Lazada.com.my.
RUNNING COMPANION
The Huawei Watch 2 integrates health and fitness, mobile services and payments into one smartwatch. Its 4G LTE connectivity is particularly handy for those who prefer to leave their phone behind when going for a run or at the gym. With 768MB of RAM and 4GB of storage, the watch also has built-in GPS and Glonass dual-positioning system. Along with continuous heart rate monitoring, the Huawei Watch 2 also features VO2max, recovery time advice and Google Assistant. Price: RM1,338 at 11street.my.
LUXURY DESIGN
Asus ZenWatch 3 follows the tradition of fine watchmaking with its luxurious, detail-focused design and construction from high-quality materials. It comes with six custom-design themes and more than 50 exclusive watch faces to match your style. Innovative quick-charging technology keeps the watch on your wrist longer, so you can always stay informed and be in the moment. Price: RM1,199 at Satugadget.com.my.
FITNESS GUIDE
Upgrade your fitness tracker with the Fitbit Ionic smartwatch. Packed with fitness guidance, the Fitbit Ionic runs its very own Fitbit OS. Its multi-sport modes let you track specific workouts like weights, runs and rides. In Bike, Run or Hike mode, use built-in GPS to see pace, distance and other key stats on display. It has durable Corning Gorilla Glass 3 screen with seamless watch case that is water-resistant up to 50m. Price: US$299 at Amazon.com.
FOR TECH-SAVVY WOMEN
Powered by Android Wear 2.0, Fossil Q Venture is a smartwatch for the women. Its metal design is sleek and elegant, and the straps can be customised to suit the user’s mood. It has all the basic smartwatch features, including mobile notifications, music controls, activity tracking, built-in microphone and speaker to make calls. There’s also an auto-update of time and date, which makes travelling easier. Price: RM1,259 at Zalora.com.my.
GO THE EXTREME
Designed for the outdoor-inclined, the Casio WSD-F20 Pro Trek comes with advanced GPS functionality, including miniature built-in sensors that measure altitudes, atmospheric pressure and directions. The map data can even be displayed even when the user’s smartphone is offline or out of range. It has been tested against the military standard which encompasses a whole series of conditions for temperature, pressure, shock impact and more. Price: US$500 at Amazon.com.