As I embark on my journey to choose my first standalone smartwatch to reduce my phone screen time, I've decided to invest in a standalone smartwatch that can replace my phone.
Understanding the Basics: LTE vs. Bluetooth
Before diving into the specifics, it's essential to understand the key difference between LTE and Bluetooth in smartwatches. LTE-enabled watches feature 4G connections through eSIMs, supporting both cellular calls (including wifi calling) and data use when wifi isn't available. This means you can use an LTE smartwatch independently from your phone. In contrast, Bluetooth smartwatches require a connected phone nearby for full functionality, limiting them to basic features like timekeeping and step counting when not connected to a smartphone. Naturally, LTE smartwatches tend to be more expensive than those with Bluetooth only.
Additional Criteria: NFC and GPS
Besides LTE connectivity, my criteria for selecting a smartwatch include NFC support for mobile payments through Google Pay or Apple Pay and built-in GPS for navigation without a phone.
Smartwatch Compatibility with Mobile Network Providers
The availability of LTE-enabled smartwatches varies significantly by country due to compatibility with mobile service providers. In the UK, only three brands (excluding kid's watches) offer LTE-enabled smartwatches: Apple Watch, Samsung Galaxy Watch, and Google Pixel Watch. The compatibility with mobile service providers and international roaming options also varies, affecting the choice significantly.
Currently, EE, O2, Vodafone, and Three are the four main network providers in the UK offering monthly plans compatible with LTE smartwatches.
Brands and Models
As of April 2024, the following smartwatch models are on the market:
- Apple Watch: Available models include the Apple Watch SE, Apple Watch Series 9, and Apple Watch Ultra 2. Each model caters to different budgets and needs, with the SE being the most affordable, the Series 9 in the mid-range, and the Ultra 2 as the premium option.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch: The LTE variants available include Galaxy Watch6 and Galaxy Watch5 4G.
- Google Pixel Watch: The Google Pixel Watch 2 is currently available but has limited support among mobile service providers. Notably, EE and Vodafone both offer plans for the Pixel Watch, but to buy a Google Pixel Watch plan from Vodafone, you’ll need an Android phone (running Android 8.0 or later) on their plans. EE does not have this restriction.
Making My Choice
After considering my options, I decided against the Apple Watch, primarily because both Apple and mobile network providers typically expect users to have an iPhone, which contradicts my goal of replacing my smartphone. Additionally, my current phone is a Motorola, which would not be compatible.
The Google Pixel Watch was also ruled out due to its limited compatibility with network providers and the specific requirement of having an Android phone on their plans.
Ultimately, I chose the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6, which offers the independence I seek at a reasonable price. It's available for £289 on Amazon with a £7 monthly plan from a mobile network provider, making it an excellent choice for my needs.
I hope my journey will help you making your own choice on smartwatches.
