Wearables | Popular Science https://www.popsci.com/category/wearables/ Awe-inspiring science reporting, technology news, and DIY projects. Skunks to space robots, primates to climates. That's Popular Science, 145 years strong. Sat, 25 Nov 2023 13:06:11 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.2 https://www.popsci.com/uploads/2021/04/28/cropped-PSC3.png?auto=webp&width=32&height=32 Wearables | Popular Science https://www.popsci.com/category/wearables/ 32 32 You can still get the best Apple products at the best prices … if you act fast https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-apple-black-friday-deals-2023/ Fri, 24 Nov 2023 21:01:32 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=591953
AirPods Pro 2 Black Friday Deal
Apple

Whether you need a new computer, tablet, or headphones, Apple's Black Friday deals have you covered.

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AirPods Pro 2 Black Friday Deal
Apple

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Apple doesn’t discount its own hardware, and although the company is currently holding a Black Friday promotion in which you get gift cards toward a future purchase, there are deals out there that save you money immediately. We’ve scoured the web to find the best Black Friday discounts on Apple hardware, and have come up with a surprising amount of deals. If you’ve been holding off on getting a new piece of gear for the right price, now is the time to shop. We wouldn’t be surprised if many of these items sell out before the day is done.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) $189.99 (Was $249)

Apple

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Apple’s AirPods 2 are the company’s latest true wireless earbuds, and they’re down to their lowest price ever on Black Friday thanks to a $60 discount. The earbuds support active noise cancellation, are IPX5 water-resistant, and last up to six hours per charge. Their included battery case can fully recharge them four times. These earbuds support Spatial Audio, which means they can decode music and movie soundtracks with a Dolby Atmos mix and give you the feeling of listening to music in surround sound on speakers. This feature works shockingly well. Additionally, the processor in each earbud optimizes and adjusts its sound in real-time, so you always get the best EQ setting. No true wireless earbuds are as good for all-around use as the AirPods Pro 2, and this discount makes them even easier to recommend.

AirPods deals

MacBook deals

iPad deals

HomePod deals

Mac Mini deals

Mac Studio deals

Apple Watch deals

Need a monitor for that Mac Mini? Samsung has gaming flagships on sale.

Looking for more affordable audio? These headphones and earbuds are all under $100.

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The best RFID wallets of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-rfid-wallets/ Thu, 16 Dec 2021 00:05:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=394033
The best RFID wallets will help keep your credit cards secure.

Think of an RFID wallet as a force field.

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The best RFID wallets will help keep your credit cards secure.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best anti-theft protection The PacSafe Z50 is the best RFID wallet for anti-theft protection. Pacsafe Z50
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If your first priority is security when looking for a RFID wallet, this one will likely be a good fit.

Best hard-sided wallet Ridge is our pick for best rfid wallets. The Ridge
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This wallet is made for your front pocket

Best for passports ZOPPEN is our pick for best rfid wallets. Zoppen
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Its slim chic design is still capable of being functional and practical.

Electronic pickpocketing can result in fraud and identity theft, but an RFID wallet can help protect you. When in close enough proximity, scanning devices can possibly be used to steal account information stored in credit and debit cards. This is known as radio-frequency identification (RFID) skimming. It’s uncommon, but it’s also relatively simple to protect yourself against. The bad news is your traditional wallet likely won’t do the trick. The good news is there are now plenty of RFID-blocking wallets so that you won’t have to constantly worry about someone skimming your information without you even realizing it. So, if you want to create a virtual shield for your tap-to-pay cards, check out our selection of the best RFID wallets.

How we chose the best RFID wallets

There’s a decent selection of RFID wallets, ranging in price, style, size, and functionality. For our final recommended list of best RFID wallets, we first looked at dozens of choices. We considered key features such as the level of RFID protection, the size of the wallet, style versus functionality, the material used to produce the wallet, and manufacturer reputation. Skimmers can use a wide array of devices to snoop on your info, so it’s important to consider all the potential attack vectors.

The best RFID wallets: Reviews & Recommendations

Choosing the right RFID wallet can be overwhelming. We have selected options to fit practically any lifestyle and budget, as prices can range from as little as $10 to upwards of a couple of hundred dollars. The highest-priced wallet on this list starts just shy of $100, and you don’t need to pay more for RFID benefits, though you can based on material preferences. If paying with your phone isn’t your jam, one of our choices should keep the cards in your pocket protected.

Best overall: The Ridge

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: Its design is unique compared to other wallets, and it’s super-durable. 

Specs

  • 6061-T6 aluminum, as well as titanium, Damascus steel, and 3k carbon weave options
  • Anodized gunmetal plates
  • Weighs 2.5 ounces or less
  • Easily accessed and adjusted elastic and screws
  • Interchangeable money clip or cash strap

Pros

  • Military-grade materials
  • Minimal design
  • Lots of material options

Cons

  • Highest price on the list
  • Limited edition coatings, prints, and engravings may sell out quickly
  • Some finishes are more prone to scratch and chip than others

The Ridge Wallet is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a durable and modern solution to secure their essentials. With design and functionality in mind, the Ridge Wallet takes up minimal space without limiting its use. Made primarily from metal (aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, or carbon fiber, depending on the variant you choose), the Ridge Wallet is designed to last for years without degrading in quality. It easily protects credit and ID cards within its elastic-attached casing, keeping everything safe from falling out even if you drop the wallet. The main compartment is expandable but hard-sided, allowing it to stretch to hold 1-12 cards and prevent both physical and digital defilement of the contents.

It might take time to get used to fanning out the cards and picking the one you need, especially if you’re transitioning from a traditional wallet. And the wallet is optimized more for cards than cash. However, the wallet’s design allows users to disassemble and reassemble it, meaning parts can be replaced if they wear out or the owner wishes to customize it. For instance, you can choose between a money clip or a cash strap based on personal preference. The kit even includes a small Torx bit driver and instructions to modify the wallet.

This wallet has a dual-track design, which includes RFID-blocking inner plates to protect all of your important information and valuable cards. It works in a front pocket, but it can also survive in a purse. You might not want to put it in your back pocket, however, since its hard sides won’t be comfortable to sit on, and if there’s one thing that might bend or dent it, it’s your entire body weight shifting. But the Ridge Wallet is an excellent choice for individuals seeking both minimalism and maximized peace of mind. — Scott Ferguson

Best for minimalists: Buffway Slim

Buffway

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Why it made the cut: It’s slim and lightweight but still provides RFID-blocking technology and space for your essentials, ultimately making it great for individuals looking to lighten their load while protecting their identity. 

Specs

  • Measures 3 ⅛” x 4 7/16” x 1/8” 
  • Weighs 1.05 oz
  • Includes 8 slots
  • Front pocket money clip

Pros

  • Extremely compact
  • Comes in 20-plus colors 
  • Inexpensive

Cons

  • Not able to block 125KHz signals (i.e., hotel room keys and access cards)
  • Doesn’t form a complete cage around cards

Having a wallet that is strong, durable, and offers RFID protection doesn’t have to mean bulky automatically. Whether you’re traveling or just prefer not to feel weighed down by a clunky wallet, a slim, minimalist wallet is a must. 

We were impressed with the lightweight and slimness of the Buffway Slim Wallet and how it proves that big things can come in small packages. While weighing just over 1 ounce and ⅛ of an inch in thickness, this wallet still provides plenty of space to carry your essential cards and cash. Included are four slots that can hold credit, debit, and bank cards; one clear slot made for your ID, work badge, or driver’s license; two side-slip pockets for items such as business cards or train passes; and one middle pocket for cash, tickets, receipts, and more.

This wallet is equipped with a protective layer that blocks 13-14Mhz electronic signals, which includes the most common radio frequencies, from trying to retrieve your personal information.

The Buffway Slim Wallet is available in almost 30 different colors, ranging from neutrals to pastels to bright hues. Each wallet is 100-percent genuine leather with a polyester lining.

Best zippered: Travelambo

Travelambo

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Why it made the cut: Its design includes zipper and button closures, giving users an alternative to a bifold or trifold. 

Specs

  • Measures 8” x 4” x 1”
  • 100-percent leather

Pros

  • Plenty of space
  • Comes in 30-plus colors 
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Requires some breaking-in
  • Can get bulky fairly quickly 
  • Doesn’t fit more recent (larger) smartphones

The Travelambo zippered wallet is impressive, first and foremost, for its large capacity. It offers 16 slots for cards, one window slot for an ID card, and two zippered pockets. Your credit and debit cards, receipts, coupons, cash, and more can all easily fit in this practical and stylish wallet without feeling like it’s overloaded and unorganized. You can use the inner button when the wallet is on the fuller side and the further button while empty.

The Travelambo wallet is available in more than 30 color options ranging from basic neutrals to bold colors. Each wallet is handmade from genuine leather. Because it fully closes around the cards, it creates a more effective layer of RFID protection than an open-faced wallet.

Best billfold: Fossil

Fossil

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Why it made the cut: Its traditional look and design are perfect for individuals weary of change.

Specs

  • 100-percent leather
  • Bifold closure
  • Flip ID windows
  • Front slide pocket
  • Measures 4.25″ x 0.75″ x 3.5″

Pros

  • Several compartments
  • Traditional look

Cons

  • Fewer color choices than others

The initial impression of this Fossil wallet may be that it looks like one you currently own. That’s because it still has Fossil’s highly loved look while providing extra levels of protection for essentially the same price and without adding extra bulk.

This RFID wallet has what has traditionally been referred to as a masculine design. Perfectly fitting in your front or back pocket, it is a great size for someone who isn’t quite ready to go as small as a minimalist design but still wants something that will fit in their pocket. If you still pay with a balance of cash and cards and like to collect physical receipts, this is the best design for you.

Best for passports: Zoppen

ZOPPEN

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Why it made the cut: Its design combines practicality, plenty of space, and style into one slim package. 

Specs

  • Faux leather
  • Tri fold closure
  • Measures 7.75” x 5” x 1”
  • Weighs 6 ounces

Pros

  • Great for travel
  • Several compartments
  • Over 30+ color options

Cons

  • Only effective on a frequency of 13.56Mhz
  • Small coin pocket

This extremely spacious wallet is made with travelers in mind. The multiple compartments will hold all of your daily and travel essentials, including a passport pouch that can hold up to two standard US passports. Other compartments include eight card slots, a flap compartment for coupons or receipts, a coin zipper pocket, a pen holder, and a SIM card slot.

What is really impressive about the Zoppen Passport Holder is the capability to hold things outside of financial-related items. It also includes a smartphone pocket that holds a phone with a maximum size of 154 x 77 x 7.7mm. It also includes a key ring so you can keep your phone, money, and keys all connected. 

This wallet makes for a great choice for someone who likes the cosmetic look of leather wallets but prefers not to have genuine leather. It is produced using premium polyurethane (PU) leather and faux suede.

Best for anti-theft protection: PacSafe

PacSafe

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Why it made the cut: It’s great for travel, durability, and the added level of protection. 

Specs

  • Bifold
  • Measures 5.1″ x 3.5″ x 0.6″ 
  • Weighs 5.99 ounces
  • Nylon and polyester
  • Blocks transmission of 10Mhz to 3GHz

Pros

  • Great for travel
  • Extra security
  • Unisex
  • Mid-range pricing

Cons

  • Not as stylish as other options
  • May be slightly bulky for a pocket

PacSafe is a brand known for its dedication to security and mobility. The PacSafe Z50 RFID Travel Wallet is made with PacSafe’s award-winning RFIDsafe blocking material and a detachable, hard-to-cut metal chain. This strap makes it harder for pickpockets to slash the strap in their attempt to steal it. It can also be used to wrap it around your wrist or secured to a belt loop while in your pocket.

As for the storage capabilities, this wallet includes a zippered note slot, a slip note slot, six slots for cards, and a split pocket. The RFIDsafe blocking material blocks out between 10MHz and 3GHz, which covers the radio frequency used in most e-passports, credit cards, ID cards, and key cards.

What to consider when buying the best RFID wallets

What should you consider when you’re searching to buy a quality RFID wallet? Here are some things you’ll want to keep in mind before making your purchase:

  • Price: RFID wallets come in a wide variety of materials, and it will be up to personal preference on what type of material you’d like to utilize. Options include genuine and synthetic leather, military-grade materials, and other synthetic materials. 
  • Material: Higher price points usually are due to special features such as lifetime guarantees, anti-theft properties, or mainstream brand names. However, if you have a small budget, there are plenty of stylish and practical options for under $20.
  • Planned Usage: Deciding whether you’re looking for something to use in your day-to-day life, just when you travel, or for all occasions will likely drive your decision by a decent amount. Some very minimalist designs may not be practical if you’re headed on a trip with travel documents and other additional items you need to keep safe. On the other hand, a wallet made with travel in mind may just be too bulky to use every day for your taste.

FAQs

Q: How much does an RFID wallet cost?

The cost of an RFID wallet depends very much on the materials from which it is made. The picks on this list range from about $15 for options made from nylon to $95 or more for The Ridge, which is made with military-grade aluminum, among other materials.

Q: Do RFID wallets really work?

RFID wallets can effectively prevent the transmission to possible thieves. The range of wallets and other products that have RFID-blocking features has risen tremendously in recent years. The chances you’ll get skimmed are low, but the penalty for failure is high, and the cost for protection is low.

Q: Do RFID wallets ruin credit cards?

Generally, the only time this could possibly be an issue is with a wallet that has magnetic closures. However, this applies to non-RFID wallets as well. Other magnetic sources such as refrigerator magnets, speakers, and TVs are possible sources that could demagnetize cards.

Q: Is RFID the same as a chip card?

In short, no. Chip cards are called EMV cards. The difference is that an EMV chip card must be inserted into the reader, while an RFID card just has to get close to one. An example would be just touching your card to the reader rather than inserting or swiping it. To know if you have an RFID card, look for radio waves on the card, similar to the symbol you see on your phone or computer when you’re connected to WiFi.

Final thoughts on the best RFID wallets

If you still have the same wallet from high school, you may consider that it’s time to update the item that carries some of the most important information in your life. Taking just a little bit of time to find and pick the best RFID wallets will pay off in the long run. Having a wallet that protects you against theft in your back pocket will give you some peace of mind. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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The best Fitbits for kids in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-fitbits-for-kids/ Mon, 06 Jun 2022 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=447741
Fitbits for kids sliced header
Stan Horaczek

These full-featured fitness trackers can endure the rigors of childhood.

The post The best Fitbits for kids in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Fitbits for kids sliced header
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall Ace 3 is the best overall Fitbit for kids. Ace 3
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It’s made specifically for children. 

Best for style Fitbit Luxe is the best Fitbit for kids for style. Fitbit Luxe
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Its good looks make it appealing to a wide audience.

Best for teens The Inspire 3 is the best Fitbit for teens. Inspire 3
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Get slightly older kids some more advanced features.

Fitbits for kids can be a great way to encourage children to develop healthy habits and active lifestyles from an early age. Beyond serving as motivational tools to get moving, they also help you monitor how much exercise your child is getting. Some even offer kid-specific features to gamify movement, making it fun to get active. Fitbits don’t just monitor exercise, though. They can help keep track of stress levels, monitor heart rate, store music, receive phone notifications, and even track sleep. No matter your child’s age, there’s something for them on our list of the best Fitbits for kids. 

How we chose the best Fitbits for kids

When selecting the best Fitbits for kids, we started by comparing the entire Fitbit lineup, many of which we have actually reviewed. We focused on models offering kid-friendly features, reasonable pricing, and designs that appeal to a younger crowd. While one model is specifically made for kids, other models can appeal to slightly older children and teens with different needs. We also included a Fiitbit alternative if you want a budget-friendly fitness tracker outside the Fitbit brand.

The best Fitbits for kids: Reviews & Recommendations

A Fitbit, one of the leading brands of activity trackers, can motivate your child to get the recommended daily amount of exercise. According to the Centers for Disease Control, kids from ages 6 to 17 need about 60 minutes of physical movement per day to stay healthy. Fitbits can easily help track those minutes to ensure adequate movement. Below are the best Fitbits for kids, no matter what their current level of activity may be.

Best overall: Ace 3

Fitbit

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Why it made the cut: With a touchscreen display, eight days of battery life, impressive memory, and Parent and Kid View, this is the obvious choice for most young ones.

Specs

  • Ages: 6+
  • Water resistance: Up to 164 feet
  • Battery life: Up to 8 days
  • Charge time: 2 hours

Pros

  • 8 days of battery life
  • Bedtime and alarms
  • Parent and Kid View
  • Water-resistant 
  • Interchangeable bands 

Cons

  • Pricey for young kids
  • No heart rate monitoring

The only Fitbit specifically made for children, the Ace 3 has many great features relevant to young ones. With eight days of battery life, a touchscreen display, bedtime alerts, reminders to move, a step counter, and gentle alarms to wake your kids up, this Fitbit comes fully stocked.

One of the most kid-friendly aspects of the Ace 3 is the fun virtual badges, animated clock faces, and personalized avatars that add a healthy sense of competition and play to their activity. Your kids can also personalize their Fitbit with interchangeable accessories, like Minions bands, for an added fee. 

There’s both parent and kid view, and it’s also water-resistant up to 164 feet, so they can even wear it while swimming. It’s by no means cheap, but with all the bells and whistles, we think it’s worth the investment. 

Best for teens: Inspire 3

Fitbit

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Why it made the cut: Easy to use and accessible for teens with a one-year premium trial included, this is a great starter tracker for young adults looking to track calories, heart rate, steps, and more at home and at school.

Specs

  • Ages: 13+
  • Water resistance: Up to 164 feet
  • Battery life: Up to 10 days
  • Charge time: 2 hours

Pros

  • Easy to use and accessible
  • Affordable 
  • Up to 10 days of battery
  • Six-month Fitbit Premium membership included
  • Competitive games

Cons

  • Screen may be hard to read in the sunlight
  • Band wears after some time

The Inspire 3 is Fitbit’s most accessible and easy-to-use fitness tracker, which makes it a solid option for teens. It’s also a New Fitbit users get a six-month free trial of Fitbit Premium so they can have access to guided meditations, exercises, and accountability to make their fitness and health journey even easier. 

The Inspire 3 connects to a smartphone, providing call, text, and app notifications right on your teen’s wrist. That means they won’t have as much of an excuse for ignoring your calls or texts. Come nighttime, it offers a sleep mode to pause notifications and turns the screen off so that their sleep isn’t interrupted.

With its sleek design and simple interface, Inspire 3 is a great starter Fitbit for tracking steps, heart rate, distance, calories, food logging, menstrual health, sleep, and more. This waterproof smartwatch can go as deep as 164 feet, so your teen can wear it during swim team practice to keep track of their workouts. The battery lasts up to 10 days, and there are even fun games in the app like Get Fit Bingo, for more competitive-minded teens.

Best for style: Fitbit Luxe

Fitbit

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Why it made the cut: Fashion-forward and stylish, the Fitbit Luxe features a menstrual health tracker, several stress management tools, and sleep aids useful for teens.

Specs

  • Ages: 13+
  • Water resistance: Up to 164 feet
  • Battery life: Up to 5 days
  • Charge time: 2 hours

Pros

  • Call/text notifications 
  • Connects to phone GPS to track pace and distance
  • Menstrual health tracker
  • Stylish design
  • Stress management features

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Website says the battery lasts five days, but depletes quicker depending on use

Swimproof, slim, and fashion-forward, the Fitbit Luxe is the perfect tracker for teens who want to be more hands-on (or is that wrists-on?) with their health. It not only takes care of all-day tracking but also connects to a phone’s GPS to track pace and distance and allows wearers to stay connected with friends via call and text notifications. 

If your teenager has periods, they can track ovulation, record period symptoms, and log flow with the built-in menstrual health tracker, which can help them feel informed about their menstrual health. It also has several stress-management features, such as guided breathing, to help with mood and stress levels. We want to note that teenage girls have enough societal pressure, and we love that Fitbit’s team is committed to helping teenage girls stay healthy and happy without focusing on striving for perfection.

It’s not the cheapest option, but the Special Edition gorjana Soft Gold Stainless Steel Parker Link Bracelet doubles as a bracelet that goes with every outfit, making the perfect birthday or holiday gift!

Best with GPS: Fitbit Charge 6

Fitbit

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Why it made the cut: This Fitbit with GPS can track over 40 workouts, including swimming, and has a built-in GPS system for more accurate location and distance information during workouts. 

Specs

  • Ages: 13+
  • Water resistance: Up to 164 feet
  • Battery life: Up to 7 days
  • Charge time: 2 hours

Pros

  • Comfortable to wear 24/7
  • Built-in GPS with access to Google Maps
  • Bigger touchscreen display 
  • Heart rate tracker
  • Built-in YouTube Music controls

Cons

  • Music controls require a subscription
  • Expensive compared to other options

Fitbit’s most advanced fitness and health tracker yet, this Fitbit with GPS comes with tons of elite features in a slim and lightweight design. It features an on-wrist ECG app, step tracker, calorie tracker, automatic exercise recognition, swim-tracking, and sleep monitoring. It also allows your kids to set goals and it buzzes when they hit certain heart rate zones. Plus, the main draw: built-in GPS for tracking routes and workouts.

The built-in GPS allows for much more accurate data related to distance and pace during workouts. The Charge 6 also comes with Google Maps, which provides turn-by-turn directions right on their wrist, giving you peace of mind that your child won’t get lost on a run or bike ride.

Fitbit also included YouTube Music controls on the Charge 6, though you will need a subscription to access that feature.

Best Fitbit alternative: Amazfit Band 7

Abby Ferguson

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Why it made the cut: This budget-friendly Fitbit alternative offers accurate heart rate data, movement goals, and a vibrant display without the subscription fee.

Specs

  • Ages: 13+
  • Water resistance: Up to 164 feet
  • Battery life: Up to 18 days
  • Charge time: 2 hours

Pros

  • Long battery life
  • Accurate heart rate data
  • No subscription required to access all features
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Touchscreen is finicky
  • Lack of buttons takes time to get used to

While Fitbit makes some excellent fitness trackers, you’ll need a subscription to access all features and data. For many, that makes Fitbits for kids a less-than-ideal choice. The Amazfit Band 7 is a great alternative in part thanks to the lack of a subscription but also due to the initial budget-friendly price. You’ll spend less upfront and overtime with this cheap fitness tracker.

Despite the low price, the Band 7 has a lot to offer. Amazfit promises up to 18 days of battery life, and during my testing, I got 16 days or so with a daily workout. Of course, actual battery life heavily depends on how you use the watch and if you have the always-on display on, but it is still impressive for the price. It also charges quickly, so you can get back to tracking movement in no time.

The built-in BioTracker 3.0 PPG biometric sensor tracks heart rate and blood oxygen levels. I found the heart rate data to be very accurate during runs and weightlifting sessions, even when compared to more expensive hiking and Garmin watches. The watch uses that information to calculate VO2 Max, stress levels, and to track sleep. It also provides a PAI, or Personal Activity Intelligence, score, which gives you a picture of how active you are and what your activity level should be for you as an individual.

The Amazfit Band 7 can track 120 different workout types. That includes basics like running, cycling, and yoga but also more obscure things like kite-flying, jumping rope, and badminton. No matter what your child is into, there’s a good chance this fitness tracker can track it. It also pairs with a phone so that your kid can receive phone notifications on their wrist.

Check out our full review to learn more about the Amazfit Band 7.

What to consider when shopping for the best Fitbits for kids

The best Fitbits for kids will fall into the fitness tracker category due to the inherent lower price and slim design. While many of these options share features, there are still some key things to consider before purchasing a device for your child.

A quick note on the term “Fitbit”

For some people, the term “Fitbit” has taken on a more general meaning—it’s a catch-all that references any fitness tracker. It’s like how we often call plastic storage bags Ziploc bags. In reality, Fitbit is a specific brand that’s owned by Alphabet, Google’s parent company. We’re keeping this list almost entirely specific to that brand because the company makes a lot of excellent devices, but have included an alternative as well.

Battery life

Battery life is a key component of any device for kids. If their fitness tracker needs to be charged daily, there’s a good chance it won’t actually be worn very much. Most Fitbits promise a battery life of up to five days, but actual battery life is dependent on how your child is using the watch and what types of settings and features are turned on. You’ll want to consider how responsible your kid is—or how much you want to be hands-on with charging—and choose a watch with a battery life that matches.

Features

While Fitbit products have commonalities, some trackers come with unique features. It’s important to identify what you want to get out of your Fitbit. Do you want a hybrid tracker and smartwatch that can sync with a smartphone and offer more complex functionality? Or do you want simple fitness tracking? Do you need GPS built in? How important are stress management tools?

Sleep tracking may also be an important feature for your child. The Sleep Foundation says that sleep not only helps your child’s energy levels but also impacts a slew of other important developmental areas such as memory, focus, mood, learning, motor skill development, and overall happiness. Keeping track of their sleep can help you get your kids on a healthy sleep schedule, which will only have benefits down the road.

Luckily, Fitbit has a tool to help you narrow in on the best option for your particular needs. Take the company’s Fitbit quiz to help you make your decision. 

Budget

How much are you looking to spend? While some budget Fitbits are around $80, they can go all the way up to several hundred, depending on features and frills like GPS tracking and smartwatch capabilities. The kid-specific Ace is one of Fitbit’s cheaper models, which makes sense since kids are prone to breaking and losing gadgets on the regular. Buying a kid a $250 smartwatch can be a real gamble. 

Style

Your Fitbit’s style should reflect your child’s age and development. Some Fitbits, like the Ace 3, are meant for small children around six years, and others are meant for older teens, like the Inspire 3 or Luxe. A kid won’t wear something if they hate the way it looks.

FAQs

Q: How long do Fitbits last?

How long a Fitbit lasts depends on how you use and care for your device. With proper care, most Fitbits should last somewhere around two years.

Q: Can an 11-year-old have a Fitbit account?

Whether or not your 11-year-old (or any minor) can have their own Fitbit account depends on your country’s privacy laws. Mostly, parents and legal guardians can create a family account to monitor their kids’ accounts. 

Q: Is it OK to wear Fitbit all the time?

Yes, it is safe to wear a Fitbit all the time. That said, some may experience skin irritation if they don’t give their skin time to breathe on occasion, especially if water gets trapped under the tracker or if they wear it too tight. If you or your child shower or swim with a Fitbit, it may be important to fully dry underneath the activity tracker and let the skin dry a little before putting it back on.

Q: Are Fitbits safe?

Yes, Fitbits are safe. However, as it is an electronic device, there are certain things to consider in order to keep it that way. You shouldn’t charge your Fitbit when it is wet, nor should you try to open or disassemble your device. As with any wearable, if you have any skin irritation, numbness, or discomfort of any kind, stop wearing your Fitbit. You can find more safety information on the Fitbit website.

Final thoughts on the best Fitbits for kids

More focused on fitness than the average smartwatches for kids, Fitbits for kids are a great tool to make healthy living a convenient part of your child’s daily life. From fun incentives, cool features, and built-in tracking, teaching your child how to have agency over their health has never been easier. Hopefully, this article helps you narrow down the best Fitbits for kids so you can find the one that is right for your child.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best Fitbits for kids in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best heated clothing in 2023, tested and reviewed https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-heated-clothing/ Mon, 23 Oct 2023 20:15:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=582173
Four pieces of heated clothing dividing vertically into fourths on a plain background
Amanda Reed

Heated clothing can keep you warm during chilly morning dog walks, Friday night football games, and every occasion in between.

The post The best heated clothing in 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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Four pieces of heated clothing dividing vertically into fourths on a plain background
Amanda Reed

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best jacket A Gobi Grit black heated work jacket on a plain background Gobi Grit Men's Heated Work Jacket
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Working outside doesn’t mean you have to be chilly while you do it.

Best vest ORORO Men’s Lightweight Heated Vest is the best heated vest for men ORORO Men's Lightweight Heated Vest
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This vest heats up fast to get you warm quick.

Best slippers A pair of Heated Slippers by Volt on a plain background Volt Resistance Rechargeable Heated Slippers
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Perfect for walking the dog or fetching the morning paper.

If the temperatures are dropping and layers aren’t cutting it, consider upping your cozy game with heated clothing. Heated clothing provides covert, fireside-esque warmth while remaining sleek and lightweight. Clothing that uses thermal lining relies on your own body heat to create warmth. Heated clothing uses a network of small, heat-conducting flexible wires powered by a detachable, rechargeable battery. Both the wires and the rechargeable batteries are slim and hardly noticeable. Wearing a piece of heated clothing should feel just like wearing a regular jacket, vest, or pair of gloves. A button—usually on the glove’s cuff or front of the jacket—lets you control the temperature. The best heated clothing keeps you warm and comfy even when outside feels like the Arctic Circle.

How we chose the best heated clothing

It’s highly unlikely you can go the entire winter without going outside. Eventually, you’ll have to walk away from one of the best space heaters. However, just because you must stand out in the cold doesn’t mean you should freeze. We looked at our past heated gear coverage, rounded up our favorites, and tested new options. We also looked at critical reviews and user recommendations and conducted heavy research to separate the tepid from the hot.

The best heated clothing: Reviews & Recommendations

If you’ve considered wearing something, it most likely comes in heated form. One of our choices will channel your inner Heat Miser when you’re about to turn into Mr. Snow.

Best jacket: Gobi Grit Men’s Heated Work Jacket

Gobi

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Specs

  • Material: Cotton with nylon lining
  • Max temp: 140 degrees
  • Heat settings: 3
  • Battery life: Up to 9 hours

Pros

  • 5 heating zones provide full coverage
  • Big, durable jacket with inner lining
  • Decent battery life

Cons

  • Fewer heat settings than other options

If you’re working outside in cold weather, not simply enduring it, you need something heavier than a shell, a fleece, or a hoodie. The Gobi Grit heated workwear jacket offers a heavier layer of electric warmth, ensuring you are ready to spend a full day in the cold. When things get rough, you can turn on the heat, which should last between 4.5 and 9 hours, depending on the setting. The company also makes heated hoodies for when you are enduring the cold. And, if you’re looking for something in a specific style, check out our other favorite heated jackets.

Best vest: ORORO Men’s Lightweight Heated Vest

Amanda Reed

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Specs

  • Material: Nylon
  • Temperature settings: Low (100°F), Medium (120°F), High (130°F)
  • Battery life: 10 hours

Pros

  • Quick heating
  • Machine washable
  • Zippered pockets

Cons

  • Might be too tight to fit under bulkier jackets
  • Only a 10-degree difference between medium and high settings

This heated vest for men is tailored neatly to the body and is machine washable. In seconds, the heating elements warm up the vest, which can be adjusted according to your comfort. It even includes a USB charging port within the vest battery that you can use for your cell phone. If you’re looking for a heated vest for a specific activity, like riding your motorcycle, check out our complete list of heated vests.

Best gloves: SAVIOR HEAT Heated Gloves

SAVIOR HEAT

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Specs

  • Material: Soft lambskin and polyester; cotton inner layer
  • Temperature range: 113°F (low)-150°F (high)
  • Battery life: 2200 mAh
  • Sizes: XS-3X
  • Special features: Touchscreen-sensitive index finger and thumb, anti-slip material on palms

Pros

  • Soft and flexible
  • Anti-slip
  • Versatile
  • Warm even without heating element turned on

Cons

  • Not as effective in temperatures below 10°F
  • Not waterproof

Savior’s rechargeable heated gloves provide the best, most versatile protection from the cold that we’ve felt in a pair of gloves. They are well suited for a variety of outdoor adventures and reasonably priced, to boot.

In a field full of very similar products from companies with little reputation, they serve as a good example of what to look for in a pair of heated gloves. First and foremost, they’re quite warm with or without the heat turned on. They have three temperature settings, water-resistance and windproofing, heating elements that cover the back of your hand and fingertips, and touchscreen-sensitive material. Meanwhile, a leather palm ensures you won’t lose your grip when you need it the most.

They’re a bit thick but still flexible enough to shift gears on a bicycle or hold ski poles. One personal complaint about these heated gloves is that the “on” indicator light is oddly bright when it’s on in the dark—but we’ve always had issues with bright lights in darkness being distracting.

All in all, it’s exactly what you’re looking for, and you don’t need to spend too much to get it.

Best socks: Gobi Tread Heated Socks

Gobi

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Specs

  • Material: Cotton
  • Power level settings: Low, medium, high (113°F-140°F)
  • Approximate heat time: 12 hours
  • Machine washable: Yes

Pros

  • Separate keychain remote
  • Slim battery pack
  • Long-lasting

Cons

  • Expensive

With a range of heat settings from a balmy 113 degrees to a toasty 140, these machine-washable heated socks from Gobi can last up to 12 hours on the lowest charge. The toes are designed with their own individual heat zone to keep your pinky from feeling frozen, plus the slim battery is hardly noticeable in its calf pocket or while wearing tight pants. Our favorite feature is the remote, which lets you change the heat settings without bending over. Consider our other favorite heated socks if you want to stock up on multiple pairs.

Best slippers: Volt Resistance Rechargeable Heated Slipper

Volt

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Specs

  • Levels of heat: High, medium, and low
  • Power: Two included USB 5V VB550 batteries
  • Sizes: Small-3XL

Pros

  • Lasts for up to 12 hours on a single charge
  • Provides three levels of heat
  • Comes in multiple sizes for men and women
  • Can wear indoors and outside

Cons

  • Only come in one color
  • Heating pad may not provide a lot of warmth

Volt is one of the first brands to design heated slippers, and the company has continued to innovate since coming out with its first pair 10 years ago. These comfy slippers are heated with included rechargeable batteries. They provide three heat levels (high, medium, and low) and can last up to 12 hours on a single full charge. Best of all, you can wear them indoors or outside. The previous iteration had a faux fur lining—although we loved the extra snuggliness, the new version ditches the bulky, a-little-too-hot fur for soft fleece that doesn’t make your feet feel like a sauna. You can also get insole warmers (even battery-powered ones) to turn any house shoe into a heated slipper.

Best wearable electric blanket: Beautyrest Reversible Sherpa to Fleece Electric Wrap

Beautyrest

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Specs

  • Fabric type: Plush Fabric
  • Heat Settings: 3
  • Machine washable: Yes

Pros 

  • Affordable  
  • Hands-free design 
  • Heats up quickly

Cons 

  • Control panel is bulky and can be uncomfortable
  • Variations in heat

As a wearable heated blanket, the Beautyrest Reversible Sherpa to Fleece Electric Wrap lets you stay warm while your hands can type, scroll on your phone, or flip between TV channels. It sits on your shoulders just like a shawl with the added luxury of heat, which you can control through three different settings. And it’s available in 10 different designs to suit your unique style and fashion sense. It’s also fully reversible with an ultra-soft beige plush fabric on the reverse side. 

The 2-hour auto shut-off prevents overheating. Fully machine washable, this wearable heated blanket provides warmth and comfort to relax anywhere in your home. This blanket would suit teens in particular because of the range of colors and styles. Like our top budget pick, also made by Beautyrest, the controller can become quite hot if covered. Simply unplug to machine wash and keep your new favorite blanket clean. Need something a bit less wearable and a bit more shareable? Check out our other heated blanket picks.

Best hand warmers: HotHands Hand Warmer

Hot Hands

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Specs

  • Reusable: No
  • Temperature range: 140-160°F
  • Duration: Up to 10 hours

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Long-lasting
  • Provides consistent heat

Cons

  • Not reusable
  • Takes 15-30 minutes to heat up

Want to save money on a handy choice from above? Any gloves are heated gloves with these disposable hand warmers from HotHands—a budget-friendly staple for keeping warm. All you need to do is shake the pack vigorously for a couple of seconds, triggering a safe chemical reaction that will lead to up to 10 hours of consistent heat in 15 to 30 minutes. Keep them in your glovebox or purse so you’ll never be caught with cold hands. If you’re looking for something reusable, we have an entire list for you.

Things to consider when buying the best heated clothing

With an entire closet’s-worth of options to choose from, what should you know when clicking “add to cart”? Here’s the short of it so you can spend more time exploring in your new hot digs:

Charging times

Heated clothing requires the use of a lithium-ion battery to power the heating elements. And, like other portable batteries and power banks, they take a bit of time to reach 100 percent. Prepare accordingly if you’re going to spend all day hitting the slopes or all night cheering in the stands. Most batteries in heated clothing also double as a portable charger in a pinch. We love killing two birds with one stone.

Machine washability

“Heated elements” plus “water” must equal “disaster” when it comes to heated clothing, right? Wrong! Most heated clothing can be washed—emphasis on the “most.” Read the care label before throwing the item in the wash, and make sure to remove the rechargeable batteries. You most definitely don’t want to run those through the washer.

Temperature

A piece of heated clothing that’s too hot leads to a sweaty person, which is not good when exposed to cold temperatures. You want to limit sweating since rapidly evaporating perspiration chills you … not exactly what you want when you’re wearing heated clothing to stay warm.

FAQs

Q: Can you wear a heated jacket in the rain?

It depends. If your jacket is machine washable or has a water-propelling shell, consider your jacket safe. Always check with the manufacturer’s care instructions before jumping in a puddle on a cold rainy day.

Q: Can you bring heated clothing on a plane?

Yes. TSA doesn’t prohibit heated clothing on planes. You only need to take electronic items larger than a cellphone or tablet from your carry-on. It’s highly unlikely the battery for your heated clothing is larger than a portable charger.

Q: Is battery-heated clothing safe?

Yes. We haven’t heard of any heated jackets or vests blowing up or catching fire. However, if you feel any sparks or electrocution, take the article off immediately, turn it off, and contact the manufacturer’s customer service line for guidance.

Final thoughts on the best heated clothing

If you’d rather not look like Randy in that one scene from A Christmas Story, consider some heated clothing for more warmth with fewer layers. The heated elements and batteries in heated clothing are thin and discreet—no one would know you’re wearing a heated jacket or vest unless you told them. And, with incredible choices like these, you’ll want to tell the entire world how cozy you are.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best heated clothing in 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best Fitbits for 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-fitbits/ Mon, 18 Apr 2022 17:00:04 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=436415
four of the best Fitbits sliced together against a white background
Abby Ferguson

Fitbit makes a wide range of great fitness trackers for just about every kind of healthy living.

The post The best Fitbits for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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four of the best Fitbits sliced together against a white background
Abby Ferguson

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall The Fitbit Versa 4 is the best Fitbit overall. Fitbit Versa 4
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The Versa 4 is the company’s most well-rounded smartwatch.

Best fitness tracker The Fitbit Charge 6 against a white background Fitbit Charge 6
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The Charge 6 offers advanced data-driven insights to help you optimize your workouts.

Best budget The Fitbit Inspire 3 is the best Fitbit at the most affordable price. Fitbit Inspire 3
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The Inspire 3 is a low-cost fitness tracker for people who just want the basics.

For many tech and health enthusiasts, Fitbits are the first devices that come to mind when you say “fitness tracker.” In some circles, the company had briefly achieved that level of cultural ubiquity where people referred to all fitness trackers as “Fitbits.” The market is now saturated—with options from Garmin, Apple, Polar, and Amazfit, just to name a few—but there are still plenty of reasons to choose devices made by Fitbit. These fitness trackers and watches deliver outstanding levels of functionality, each with its own particular benefits. With so many types of Fitbits—not to mention multiple generations of each version—it might not be readily apparent which one makes the most sense for you. To that end, we’re looking at the top options for a range of intentions so you can work out (or even sleep) with confidence, knowing that these are truly the best Fitbits.

How we chose the best Fitbits

I selected these Fitbits like I do ebikes and gear for van-lifers (such as solar generators): through first-hand testing and input from real buyers. I tested these alongside fitness trackers from Fitbit and other leading brands, such as the Polar Ignite 2 Plus and the Garmin Venu 2 Plus. While testing, I looked to determine core functionality like tracker accuracy and battery, as well as the relative ease of use

The Fitbit versions that didn’t make the cut were not always significantly different from those included above, but our picks stood out for a reason. You can choose yours from these Fitbit reviews, knowing that these truly are the best options available right now.

The best Fitbits: Reviews & Recommendations

While the features offered by the various models tend to overlap—most build up from a base of 20 health and fitness metrics—each individual package tailors itself to a specific set of needs or parameters. Plenty of people want access to this data but don’t need the battery life for the backcountry and don’t necessarily want the bulk of a sensor-packed hiking/multisport watch. To that end, here are the best Fitbits for most people.

Best overall: Fitbit Versa 4

Fitbit

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Why it made the cut: With its broad range of fitness tracking capabilities, smartwatch functions, and lower price, the Versa 4 is a balanced fitness watch that plays to Fitbit’s strengths.

Specs

  • Heart rate monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: Yes
  • Battery life: 6 days
  • Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

  • Plenty of fitness tracking functions
  • Detailed sleep-tracking information
  • Wide range of smart features

Cons

  • Higher price than most Fitbits
  • Relatively short battery life

For all practical purposes, the Fitbit Versa 4 can do everything that most users want from their fitness tracker. It provides info about steps, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, calories burned, and sleep tracking. It’s also water-resistant down to 50 meters, in case you’re a swimmer. It even buzzes to let you know when you’ve entered your personalized target heart rate for exercise, which it refers to as your “active zone.”

At the same time, the Versa 4 includes plenty of smart functions. You can use it to take calls and receive notifications from your phone or ask Alexa about the weather. Fitbit also features an app ecosystem that’s smaller than iOS or Android but includes apps for music, payments, and more. The Versa 4 and more powerful Sense watch bring a lot of value to the table, but the Versa does so at a lower price, making it a slightly more accessible pick. If you’re looking for a less expensive version, read our review of the Fitbit Versa 3.

Best fitness tracker: Fitbit Charge 6

Fitbit

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Why it made the cut: With its expansive suite of fitness trackers and detailed workout insights, the Charge 6 is a gym rat’s best friend.

Specs

  • Heart rate monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: Yes
  • Battery life: 7 days
  • Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

  • Provides access to Google Maps, Wallet, and YouTube Music
  • Stress management tools
  • Provides recommendations for workouts, mindfulness, and challenges

Cons

  • Subscription required for advanced insights
  • Reply to calls and texts function for Android only

If you’re looking for the utmost in fitness-tracking power, the Fitbit Charge 6 delivers. With a full range of fitness and health tracking options, it records all the stats you need. What makes it stand out, however, is its workout intensity map, which leverages GPS and various physical data points to highlight when you’re getting the most and least out of your workout. Between workouts, it sends guidance to maintain mindfulness and workout optimization.

Though it’s primarily fitness-focused, it also features a smattering of basic smart functions that allow you to manage payments plus receive calls, texts, and calendar notifications. It also offers access to Google features such as YouTube Music controls, Google Wallet, and Google Maps. Some of these functions only work with Android phones, however.

The one drawback to the Charge 6—like all Fitbit devices—is its reliance on a subscription. Like the Whoop 4.0 and other recent high-end fitness trackers, Fitbit gates off many of its most detailed workout insights unless you pay for its Premium membership. You get six months of free access to see if it’s worth the $9.99 a month, but you should probably decide whether or not you’re even open to such an arrangement in the first place.

Best watch: Fitbit Sense 2

Why it made the cut: The Sense 2 is a sleek, powerful smartwatch with advanced fitness-tracking capabilities.

Specs

  • Heart rate monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: Yes
  • Battery life: 6 days
  • Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

  • Fitbit’s largest suite of smart apps
  • Includes ECG monitoring and EDA Scan for tracking heart health and stress
  • Works with Alexa

Cons

  • The most expensive Fitbit
  • Relatively short battery life
  • Large

If you want a fitness tracker that really leans into smart features, the sleek Fitbit Sense 2 delivers. With the largest suite of smart apps on any Fitbit device, as well as most of the key fitness and health tracking functions, it is the most powerful Fitbit we recommend. Most notably, the Sense includes an ECG for detecting heart health, as well as an EDA Scan app that monitors electrodermal activity and then provides a graph of how your body responds to stress. It is also the only Fitbit to come with a 6-month free trial of the guided meditation app Calm to support any stress management goals you might have.

Given all that, it’s worth noting that the Sense is the second most expensive device you can get from Fitbit right now. If you want all the features, the Sense may be the best choice, but it is bigger and more expensive than most of the pack.

Best for women: Fitbit Luxe

Fitbit

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Why it made the cut: The Fitbit Luxe is a great option if you want a fitness tracker that can double as a piece of jewelry. 

Specs

  • Heart rate monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: No
  • Battery life: 5 days
  • Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

  • Stylish design
  • Heart tracking
  • Stress management tools included

Cons

  • Need to connect to phone for GPS
  • Doesn’t let you play music

If you’re looking for a fitness tracker that looks more like a bracelet than a military-grade smartwatch, the Fitbit Luxe is a good option. The slim design, polished stainless steel case, and bands available in a range of hues make this an option that works for both work and working out, and one of the best Fitbit watches for women. The Luxe also tracks heart rate, sleep, and breathing rate, plus provides some stress management tools. You can also text and receive call notifications, but you can’t access music or make calls. 

This tracker is water-resistant up to 50 meters, and has a battery life of up to five days. Unfortunately, you’ll need to connect to the GPS in your phone to see your pace in real-time, as it doesn’t offer built-in GPS. It won’t be the best option for those serious about accurate pace and mileage information as a result, but it does help keep the cost and size down.

Best for men: Google Pixel Watch 2

Google

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Why it made the cut: This sleek watch can double as a sophisticated timepiece and a high-end fitness tracker. 

Specs

  • Heart rate monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: No
  • Battery life: 24 hours
  • Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

  • Tracks heart rhythms 
  • Comes with emergency SOS system
  • Sophisticated design
  • Available with 4G LTE service as well

Cons

  • Only works for Android users

Google bought Fitbit in November 2019, and some of Fitbit’s fitness trackers feature the integration of the parent company’s features. Conversely, Google’s Pixel Watch 2 uses Fitbit’s tracking technology to monitor activity, calories burned, and sleep patterns. It also provides in-depth tracking of the heart rhythm with the ECG feature and can track skin temperature. Additionally, it has an SOS feature that allows users to contact 911 in case of an emergency. And the Android-compatible device pairs with Google’s Wear OS system, Pixel phones, and Pixel buds for running.

This Fitbit for men also allows users to get turn-by-turn guidance from Google Maps, make contactless payments, and receive calendar alerts. You can opt for a Bluetooth version if you want to keep your phone on you for notifications or spend $50 more for the 4G LTE version. But beyond the device’s functionality, it’s also a timepiece that looks great on the wrist with its domed design and AMOLED touchscreen display. Plus, it comes in a variety of color options, so you can choose one that fits your style best.

Best budget: Fitbit Inspire 3

Fitbit

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Why it made the cut: With all the essential fitness tracking capabilities, the Inspire 3 gives you the features you need at a more affordable price.

Specs

  • Heart rate monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: No
  • Battery life: Up to 10 days
  • Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

  • 20 fitness functions
  • Long battery life
  • Long premium trial

Cons

  • Limited smartphone notifications
  • Small, hard-to-read screen

If you just need a basic fitness tracker, try the Fitbit Inspire 3. It tracks all the basics—steps, calories, heart rate, etc. It also has more advanced features than other trackers, including active zone alert, cardio fitness scores, and a “daily readiness score” to make sure you let your body recover between workouts.

That said, this cheap Fitbit is very much an essentialist fitness tracker. It has some smartwatch functionality, including notifications for calls, text, and social media. It also offers stress management features and menstrual health tracking. These features require looking at the Inspire 3’s tiny screen, which isn’t ideal for anything beyond the quickest of glances. This is definitely a tracker for people who actively want to avoid the “smart features” and stay focused on working out. Looking to save a few dollars with an older version? Read our review of the Fitbit Inspire 2.

Best for kids: Fitbit Ace 3

Fitbit

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Why it made the cut: Arguably the most feature-rich fitness tracker designed specifically for kids, the Ace 3 helps keep your little one moving.

Specs

  • Heart rate monitor: No
  • Built-in GPS: No
  • Battery life: Up to 8 days
  • Premium membership: Not included

Pros

  • Parent View safety feature
  • Incentivizes fitness in kids
  • Bedtime reminders and sleep tracking

Cons

  • Single wristband size doesn’t fit all wrists
  • Some users have reported durability issues with the buckle

There aren’t too many quality fitness trackers designed specifically for kids, so the Fitbit Ace 3 is incredibly useful and the best Fitbit for kids. It primarily tracks steps and sleep but can also set challenges to keep kids motivated and active. You can also set reminders to prompt children to get up, move, stretch, or sleep at specific times. Its features are comparatively very limited beyond the basics, but it is water-resistant for up to 50 meters, so it is durable and can stay on in the pool.

The Ace 3 supports the Fitbit app, which features separate viewing modes for parents and kids when you activate the Family Account mode. In Parent View mode, parents can monitor their kid’s activity and approve any connections in the Fitbit social community. Meanwhile, Kid View presents a child-friendly version of the fitness tracker experience, with access to stats, badges, personalized avatars, and challenges. Like many of the best smartwatches for kids, it’s cute but quite feature-packed.

What to consider before buying a Fitbit

Each Fitbit variety offers its unique features and benefits, so it’s important to keep a few things in mind when choosing which is the best one for you and whether that’s the latest Fitbit or old Fitbit models. These are, for the most part, the same considerations to keep in mind when picking any fitness tracker or fitness watch

Health goals

To judge any fitness tracker, you must know how you plan to use it. Are you looking to track your high-impact workouts or simply ensure you get your steps in? Monitor heart health or blood oxygen levels? Or maybe sleep tracking and monitoring mindfulness? Different Fitbits come with varying feature sets that will accommodate different goals. Often, more complex trackers will be larger, more complicated, and more expensive. Finding the right balance among those three factors will set you up to use your Fitbit to the fullest.

Cost

Fitbits come in many shapes and sizes, meaning some are more expensive than others. Some models cost as little as $60. Others get as high as $400. Again, you want to find a balance between feature-set and price that works for you, but it’s also generally important to keep your budget in mind as you shop.

Smart functions

While some Fitbits act as fairly basic fitness trackers, others are much more elaborate smartwatches. Which is right for you depends on whether or not you need all those smarts.

FAQs

Q: How much does a Fitbit cost?

Prices range from under $60 for the Ace 3 to as much as $400 for the Google Pixel Watch 2, depending on the most current sale prices.

Q: Are Fitbits waterproof?

All the latest-generation Fitbit models boast strong water resistance in up to 50 meters. They’re all great for swimming laps or playing in a pool. If you’re diving, you may want to consider something a bit more durable.

Q: How do I get my Fitbit to sync?

Once you pair your Fitbit with your phone, it will sync periodically when the Fitbit smartphone app is open. You can manually sync on the app homepage by swiping down.

Q: How accurate are Fitbit devices?

No fitness tracker is 100% accurate. They approximate your activity by sensing movement, heart rate, and other factors. You can improve your tracker’s accuracy by feeding it more data. Enabling GPS and entering accurate height, weight, and stride length in the app settings will improve results.

That said, Fitbit trackers do fare comparatively well in general testing. A 2017 study found that Fitbits tend to have a 27% median error when tracking calories burned. While that might seem like a lot, they outperformed almost all major competitors. There hasn’t been much hard research done since then on the accuracy of Fitbit’s latest releases, but having compared them against other trackers that are well-regarded for their accuracy—as well as good old-fashioned paper-and-pencil calorie tracking—I can say that they seem to perform well.

Final thoughts on the best Fitbits

The best Fitbit for you comes down to one of two factors: whether you want a smartwatch or a fitness tracker and your budget. The core fitness tracking features are largely consistent among most models. Hence, you need to consider whether you care about smartphone-related lifestyle features and the advanced fitness analytics that come with Fitbit’s premium subscription. Ultimately, most Fitbits are great so long as their features and your expectations are in sync.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best Fitbits for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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TCL NXTWEAR S XR glasses review: A smart wearable with an emphasis on wearability https://www.popsci.com/gear/tcl-nxtwear-s-xr-glasses-review/ Fri, 13 Oct 2023 17:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=579375
A look down at the lenses and screen of the TCL smart glasses
Here's a look at the backside of the lenses and screen. Eric Alt

These smart goggles put a screen right in front of your face, but they're not without their shortcomings.

The post TCL NXTWEAR S XR glasses review: A smart wearable with an emphasis on wearability appeared first on Popular Science.

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A look down at the lenses and screen of the TCL smart glasses
Here's a look at the backside of the lenses and screen. Eric Alt

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Part of the reason augmented reality has had difficulty gaining a foothold comes down to the whole “augmented” part of the equation. Is there a way to create unobtrusive devices that are easy to use while still delivering solid performance? Apart from holding your smartphone awkwardly in front of your face or strapping a headset the approximate size and comfort level of a microwave to your face, the options are limited. 

TCL, however, is doing its best to bring AR to more people with their NXTWEAR S XR glasses. Lightweight and designed to look more like cool (if slightly bulkier) Ray-Bans than VR headsets, the NXTWEAR S smart glasses are meant to bring the “personal screen” experience out into the real world in a more comfortable and potentially useful way.

Eric Alt

SEE IT

Overview

  • The NXTWEAR S XR glasses feature a pair of micro-OLED FHD displays that project a 201-inch 16:9 60Hz image at 6-meter distance. With up to 400 nits of brightness, you can see clearly even outdoors. Their resolution is 1920 x 1080 in 2D mode and also 3D compatible, offering 3840 x 1080 resolution in that mode.
  • They come with three pairs of lenses, including “sunglasses” that can help improve the viewing experience in sunlight and myopia glass frames for nearsighted people. 
  • The NXTWEAR S also features fully immersive audio and adjustable volume and brightness settings. 
  • The glasses connect to smartphones, laptops, and gaming consoles via magnetic USB-C DisplayPort cable. However, most devices, such as older iPhones and Nintendo Switches, need a separate adapter. 

Pros

  • Intuitive to connect and use right out of the box
  • Lightweight (85g) and stylish design—it actually looks like something you wouldn’t mind wearing in public
  • Image and sound quality are excellent, with its 1080p projection particularly impressive

Cons

  • Although the glasses themselves are lightweight and generally pretty stylish, the device is still cumbersome, especially with the 30g cord and additional adapters required for specific devices
  • The NXTWEAR S can connect to, say, a laptop right out of the box but requires one kind of adapter for iPhones and yet another for the Nintendo Switch. The adapters, in turn, also often need to be charged, so you can run into a problem with your device and your adapter running out of steam at opposing times
  • The image quality is generally excellent, but the transparency of the image is a little distracting (especially when watching movies) and takes getting used to—it feels like a hybrid of a second screen and an AR headset but with the weaknesses of both  
  • There is a noticeable lag when playing mobile games

Verdict: There’s no doubt this is a great (if incremental) step forward for wearable second-screen/AR devices, but it’s not quite there yet. Technically impressive and “only” $349 (honestly, there are far more expensive fashion sunglasses), the NXTWEAR S XR glasses further cement TCL’s reputation for making affordable devices that don’t skimp on quality (just like their TVs). However, it’s hard to see the NXTWEAR S being a go-to device for people except in very specific cases. 

On a plane and don’t want to risk tech-neck staring at your smartphone? This is a great alternative (just be prepared for a flight attendant to casually walk through a car chase in the middle of Fast X). Are you in bed and want to watch Better Call Saul, but your partner is asleep? Again, this is great for that. But when doing, say, laptop work, it’s nice not to have the option to look up and see your desktop floating in space above your latte. And, unless you’re a supremely gifted typist, you’ll still need to look down and occasionally lift the glasses to type or move your cursor around. It’s cool but not exactly practical.  

The TCL NXTWEAR XR glasses build

TCL smart glasses in their charging case
The case charges the glasses and stores them. Eric Alt

Right out of the box, the TCL NXTWEAR S XR glasses are (pardon the expression) Apple-like in their stylish simplicity. You get a small carrying case, the magnetic USB-C cable, a separate eyeglass pad so you can adjust fit and comfort level, and Ray Ban-like sunglass overlays that attach to the front of the NXTWEAR magnetically (and with TÜV Rheinland Certified lenses, they do actually provide sun and blue light protection). 

Everything you need can be placed into the carry case, which has a nice, padded interior and a hard plastic shell, making it perfectly easy to store in a laptop bag or stuff into your airline carry-on without worrying about scratching the lenses or crushing the device. 

The TCL NXTWEAR XR glasses setup

Overall, the core device is unfussy and well-designed, with set-up generally very easy (as long as you have a compatible device handy). I was able to hook the NXTWEAR S to my MacBook immediately, and the computer was able to recognize the device and switch into “second screen” mode without my having to do anything. Again, this device is intuitive and a great step forward, but it needs to be more device-agnostic.

The TCL NXTWEAR XR glasses performance

The TCL Smart glasses box
Eric Alt

The TCL NXTWEAR gets right to work without any complicated or annoying setup. Once plugged in, you can immediately access the second screen, which looks crisp and clear with CONTRAST > 100000:1 and sRGB 108%, among other specs. Volume and brightness adjustments can be made easily via small buttons on the right temple. I used it primarily on a MacBook and iPhone and didn’t even have to download an app to start enjoying it immediately. 

The magnetic eyepiece not only improves the look of the glasses (you go from cybernetic accountant in 2099 to Tom Cruise on an aircraft carrier in a flash), but it does help temper some of the transparency and gives you richer, more “TV”-like colors. On the negative side, the device does have some compatibility issues with apps like Amazon Prime and MoviesAnywhere. 

So, who should buy the TCL NXTWEAR S XR glasses? 

Early adopters, who love a good gadget more than they look for practicality, will find that the NXTWEAR S XR glasses offer a fantastic design that delivers on its promises—it’s just that what it promises isn’t something you’ll necessarily have to or want to integrate into your everyday life. 

It seems clear that TCL will keep iterating on this idea, and each phase will likely smooth out some of the roughness and cumbersome annoyance. At around $400, it’s an expensive novelty, but it has potential and is fun to play with in small doses (allow your eyes to re-adjust to the real world after wearing them for a bit).

The post TCL NXTWEAR S XR glasses review: A smart wearable with an emphasis on wearability appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best Apple Watch for most people is just $199 for Amazon Prime Day https://www.popsci.com/gear/apple-watch-amazon-prime-day-deals-october-2023/ Wed, 11 Oct 2023 15:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=578759
Apple watch SE 2 in a pattern
Stan Horaczek

The Apple Watch SE 2 has everything most people need and it starts at just $199 during Amazon's Prime Big Deal event.

The post The best Apple Watch for most people is just $199 for Amazon Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Apple watch SE 2 in a pattern
Stan Horaczek

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The Apple Watch SE (2nd gen) is Apple’s budget-friendly wearable, and Amazon has knocked $50 off the price across the board to make it even more attainable. The SE has most of the bells and whistles found on the more expensive Apple Watch models at a fraction of the price. It’s 50m water resistant and includes essential safety features like irregular/unusually high heartbeat notifications and crash detection. It works seamlessly with other Apple devices. Plus, it comes in two sizes and a wide variety of colors. You can buy an older model to save money, but then you won’t get software support for as long as you will with the SE. This is all the smartwatch most people need, and it’s a steal at this price.

Note: You’ll have to be an Amazon Prime member to take advantage of most of these deals, so be sure you’re signed up before making a purchase.

Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS 40mm] Smartwatch with Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Loop $199 (was $249)

Amanda Reed

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This is the cheapest version you can get. It has a smaller 40mm face (you can move up to 44mm starting at $229). It’s great if you don’t have a huge wrist or you simply don’t want a giant watch. It monitors your heart rate, gives you your messages, runs all the Apple Watch apps, and does everything most people need.

Other Apple Watch SE options on sale for Prime Day:

Accessorizing other activities? Take a look at our ongoing list of Big Deal Days discounts.

Want more deals delivered to your inbox weekly? Sign up for PopSci’s Deals newsletter and save money on stuff you’ll really use.

The post The best Apple Watch for most people is just $199 for Amazon Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best smartwatch for kids in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-smartwatch-for-kids/ Fri, 28 May 2021 18:59:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=368416
little tikes best smartwatch for kids
Little Tikes, Amazon

With the best smartwatch for kids you can track their location or their health.

The post The best smartwatch for kids in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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little tikes best smartwatch for kids
Little Tikes, Amazon

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A TEACHER PET blue little tikes smartwatch Little Tikes Tobi Robot Smartwatch
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A handy learning tool disguised as a digital pet.

A MONSTER DEAL Best budget: VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3 VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3
SEE IT

Fun features without the high price tag make this smartwatch a smart buy.

KEEP KIDS ON TRACK Best health tracker: Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3 Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3
SEE IT

A stylish activity monitor that counts sheep, strides, and strokes.

Buying a smartwatch for a kid is actually, well, incredibly smart. Smartwatches can promote healthy habits by tracking steps. They can teach children the responsibility of owning a cool gadget. They can provide parental peace of mind, acting as a GPS tracker for kids to monitor your child’s location (with the kid’s knowledge, of course). And, of course, they can make your little one smile, reminding them that, sometimes, their parents really are pretty cool. But picking the right one isn’t as simple as grabbing a Fitbit or Apple Watch. Outfitting a youngin comes with its own set of considerations: Do you need GPS or a step tracker? Are kid-specific watches better than stepped-down adult models? Here’s how to wrap your head around picking the best smartwatch for kids. 

The best smartwatch for kids: Reviews & Recommendations

Any parent knows that kids’ personalities somehow show up in infanthood. So by the time your child is ready for a smartwatch—yes, even if she’s only in preschool—they’ll likely have some fully formed opinions about the device that they want for their wrist. Definitely take note because if the gadget doesn’t have the camera or games they’re hoping for, they may not wear it all. 

Best for phone-free messaging: XPLORA XGO3

Tony Ware

SEE IT

Specs

  • 4G, 3G & 2G enabled
  • 1.3-inch TFT Touchscreen
  • Camera
  • Microphone & Speaker
  • Make and receive calls, messages
  • Pedometer
  • Waterproof IP68 rating
  • 0.14 ounces

Pros

  • A means of communication means kids can explore independence & test boundaries with a safety net
  • GPS & Safety Zones
  • Pre-programmed responses and emojis make up for no keyboard
  • School mode allows its use as just a watch during study hours
  • No games means less distractions

Cons

  • User guide has limited instructions beyond activation
  • Requires parent to use XPLORA app for messaging
  • Analog watch face might be difficult to use for younger children
  • Short battery life

WiFi and network compatible, the XGO 3 comes with a pre-installed Xplora Connect SIM Card that can be activated to enable voice calls from pre-saved numbers, voice and pre-programmed messages, and more for $9.99 a month. After some initial hiccups setting up the watch for a niece of one of PopSci‘s staff members, assisted via email by very responsive Customer Service, the excited recipient started testing. Not only was she obsessed with trying things out, but mom found that it was great to send her a message or give her a quick call to check on where she was or call her back inside. One of the best features was the child’s ability to record video messages that she could then send to mom. And, in an emergency, an SOS button can be pressed by a child to notify emergency contacts of their location. In addition, pictures can be taken and sent with the onboard camera. A screen protector would be recommended, however, as children are not aware of how easily screens scratch. Overall, the X3GO is a solid prelude for kids who aren’t ready for a phone and for parents who aren’t ready to give their young kid a phone but still want to offer some room to explore without parents standing over them all the time. In the warmer months, this is the kind of watch that can get a lot of use, as all the kids start playing outside around the neighborhood. And, as kids grow and want a higher-resolution screen and camera, there is the XPLORA X6.

Best health tracker: Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3

Garmin

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The best health trackers are way more than simple pedometers. And the Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3, with a replaceable battery that should last all year, rises to the challenge. This swim-friendly smartwatch can withstand the pressure under 164 feet of water and will monitor your child’s activity, whether they’re in the pool, on the field, or resting. A compatible parent-only smartphone app (Android 4.4 and up and iOS 9.1 and up) lets you load games that will keep kids engaged to hit their 60 minutes of daily activity. (You can also set alerts to remind the kids to do their homework or take out the trash.) The silicone band is made to fit kids ages 4 to 9, with the regular size going up to 145 millimeters and the extra-large stretching to 170 millimeters. 

Best for older kids: Apple Watch SE

Apple

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At $150 less than the cost of the Apple Watch Series 9, the Apple Watch SE is perfect for a tween who has a phone and is learning what it means to treat technology responsibly and use it to get things done. Activity tracking features like heart rate monitoring and running routes can help promote your youngster’s budding workout regimen. Plus, they can find the right pump-up tunes by accessing more than 75 million songs on Apple Music. Being able to access their calendar and answer calls and texts from their wrist can help them keep up with increasingly hectic schedules. 

Best for younger kids: Little Tikes Tobi Robot Smartwatch 

Amazon

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With more than 50 faces, the Tobi 2 really does resemble a robot on your kid’s wrist, and by employing fun games and movement motivators—like an augmented reality seek-and-search game, and a dance activity game—it will help children learn and grow, even if they don’t realize it. Kids will enjoy taking selfies and videos with two cameras—the 512 MB of memory can store up to 3,000 photos or 30 minutes of video. And the lithium-polymer battery is rechargeable via USB plug-in, but the kiddo will have to turn it off to charge. 

Best budget: VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3

VTech

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The KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3 is the latest and greatest model in VTech’s line of affordable kid-friendly watches, featuring two cameras for taking videos and selfies, an easy-to-use touch screen, and over 50 kid-friendly watch faces. In addition to a built-in combo camera flash and flashlight, the KidiZoom features daily routine and alarm apps to help little ones learn about time management. While it doesn’t have two-way calling or GPS functionality like pricier watches, friends can pair two DX3s to send preset messages and play games by scanning each other’s watches in person. Best of all, the watch has no wireless connectivity and uses microUSB for all data transfer, keeping it secure and under parents’ control.

What to consider when buying the best smartwatches for kids 

Modern devices fit a ton of features into incredibly small packages. There are universal needs—like comfort, durability, and long battery life—but if you’re in the market for a child’s smartwatch, weeding out the best choice means focusing on a few broader questions.

Do you want (or need) to track your child’s location? 

A GPS-enabled smartwatch can let parents sleep a little easier. However, we definitely advise being up-front with your kid that you can see their location. The devices are in constant communication with the constellation of satellites orbiting the Earth, so as long as your child is wearing the watch—and you’ve downloaded the corresponding smartphone app—you can find them. The best GPS tracker for kids includes features like SOS alerts, which let kids send distress signals, and two-way calling, akin to a walkie-talkie function. Lastly, you want a watch that’ll last. Most GPS smartwatches will continue to emit a location signal after the battery has died. To further ensure uninterrupted operation, look for the best GPS watch made out of a trustworthy material like non-toxic silicone and rated IP67, which means it can survive being submerged in up to a meter of water for half an hour, and it is dust-tight.

Does your child need help staying active?  

Healthy habits should start young, but only a quarter of kids get the CDC-recommended hour of exercise they need a day. With activity monitors on their wrists, kids can make a game out of their movement. The best health/fitness watches go beyond counting steps. Pairing with smartphone apps over Bluetooth, health trackers motivate users with movement challenges and other activities, and they let wearers set goals and reminders to stay on task. Activity monitors are made to be worn during exercise (and sleep), so they need to be comfortable. Look for silicone bands, especially if your kid likes swimming, and an IP68 waterproof rating. If movement is the main goal, fitness-focused options like the Fitbit Ace and Garmin Vivofit Jr. trade bulkier colorful screens for slimmer fits and more detailed health tracking.   

Is your tween ready for an Apple Watch?

Your middle schooler is likely already begging you for a smartphone. It’ll let them stay in touch with you, they’ll argue. It’ll help them stay organized, they’ll say. Valid points. And if you’re considering caving and buying your tween an older iPhone, an older Apple Watch just might be a good companion purchase. For starters, an Apple Watch can ping the phone it’s paired with, adding insurance against losing the phone. And by pairing the watch with your own phone, you, as the parent, can track your kid’s location (again, be upfront about this). Meanwhile, kids will get the benefits of activity tracking, Siri’s wisdom, and emergency calling right from their wrist with an Apple Watch for kids.

What about a toddler?

The best smartwatches for kids who are younger will be as informative as they are entertaining, with games and other tools imparting lessons like counting, pattern recognition, and time-telling. Smartwatches for little ones should be durable and affordable since all parents know how kids sometimes treat their toys—that means skipping the temptations of expensive upgrades like GPS.  

Can you find a good deal on a smartwatch for kids? 

Let’s face it: A smartwatch is basically a toy. But even on a budget, there’s no reason that toy can’t be cool. Kids will care only about the games, movement activities, or funny filters on the camera—all of which are available in cheap smartwatch options—while parents can rest easy knowing most budget smartwatches can’t text or call anyone.   

FAQs

Q: What are the best smartwatch brands for kids?

The best smartwatch brands for kids depend on the features you’re after. Some of the best GPS watches come from Themoemoe and Apple. Some of the best fitness trackers are made by Garmin and Fitbit. 

Q: Is an Apple watch good for a 10-year-old?

An Apple watch is good for a responsible 10-year-old. They are equipped with GPS tracking, two-way calling, games, cameras, and fitness tracking—all with that distinct Apple look. But Apple products, such as the Apple Watch SE, also cost 10 times more than some of the most affordable options, and, of course, they need to be paired with an iPhone. 

Q: Are Fitbits suitable for 8-year-olds?

Fitbits are certainly a good option for 8-year-olds. In fact, the Fitbit Ace is made for kids 8 and up, so if your third grader loves to move—or needs some added activity incentive—a health tracker could be the perfect fit. Fitbits don’t require a smartphone to collect all that useful health data, but they do need to be paired with one if you and your child want to dive into the analytics. 

Final thoughts on buying the best smartwatch for kids

Finding the best smartwatch for kids comes down to what single feature is the most important. If location tracking is a top priority, look for a GPS-enabled smartwatch. If fitness tracking is more your tween or teenager’s speed, look for a narrower-banded smartwatch like the Fitbit Ace. Finally, if fun is all you need, you may not have to spend a fortune (the VTech KidiZoom, for instance, is under $40), especially if your smartwatch is destined for the wrist of a preschooler. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best smartwatch for kids in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best heart rate monitors of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-heart-rate-monitors/ Wed, 27 Oct 2021 20:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=400160
Best heart rate monitors composite feature image
Tony Ware

We’ve got out finger on the pulse of the best heart rate monitors to help you exercise more efficiently.

The post The best heart rate monitors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best heart rate monitors composite feature image
Tony Ware

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best for cycling Polar H10 is the best heart rate monitor. Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor
SEE IT

An accurate heart monitor that pairs with Peloton.

Best for triathletes Myzone MZ-Switch is the best heart rate monitor. Myzone MZ-Switch
SEE IT

You customize your workout and now you can customize how you use your heart rate monitor with the MZ-Switch, which can be worn on your wrist, arm, or chest.

Best for running Garmin HRM-Pro is the best heart rate monitor. Garmin HRM-Pro Premium Heart Rate Strap
SEE IT

A heart rate monitor that’s easy to use and runs well in more than one way.

If you aren’t wearing a heart rate monitor, you aren’t getting the most from exercising. According to the Cleveland Clinic, heart rate is a primary indicator of how intensely you’re exerting yourself and what energy source you’re using. When you work out, you burn calories, but if your heart rate is too high, you’ll actually be burning more carbohydrates, since your body can’t burn fat fast enough to keep up. Therefore, knowing your heart rate lets you keep your workout in the fat-burning zone. (This is the underlying theory behind Orangetheory workouts, for example.) The best heart rate monitors give you reliable, real-time readings and can beam data to a synced device for further analysis so you can work out your best workout. 

And, sure, you could use your fingers to check your pulse, but how realistic—or reliable—is that when you’re on a bike or in the pool? Heart rate monitors offer ease of use and accuracy suited for high-intensity activity and environments. So if you’re trying to figure out a monitor for cycling, swimming, or running, whether an armband or a chest strap is better for you, read on. We’ve got our finger on the pulse of the best heart rate monitors. 

How we selected the best heart rate monitors

The core function of the best heart rate monitors is to provide an accurate, real-time look at your heart rate. So we only considered the ones made by top manufacturers whose sensor technology cannot be beat and whose products we’ve tested and trust. From there, we read what users and critics had to say about how they felt and functioned in the real world, and we considered critical features like Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity and compatibility with popular fitness apps. That heartfelt work led us to a list we love. 

Best heart rate monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Best for cycling: Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor

Polar

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Why it made the cut: Polar’s ECG heart rate measurement provides pinpoint accuracy whether road biking or open-water swimming.

Specs:

  • Weight: Connector 21 g (0.74 oz), strap 39 g (1.38 oz)
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, ANT+
  • Battery life: Up to 400 hours

Pros:

  • Accurate
  • Connects to multiple devices at once
  • Waterproof up to 30 meteres
  • Over-the-air software updates

Cons:

  • Replacement batteries may not last as long as the original

Garmin, Apple, Strava, Nike—these are just some of the brands that this Polar monitor works with. It can support iOS mobile devices with iOS 13 or later; Android mobile devices with Bluetooth 4.0 capability and Android 7 or later; Huawei mobile devices with Huawei App Gallery and Huawei Mobile Services installed. That makes this chest strap one of the best heart rate monitors for cycling. But it excels as one of the best monitors for Peloton and cycling in general, as its accurate reader and comfortable fit don’t falter at high speeds thanks to silicone dots that help it stay firmly in place.

Best for running: Garmin HRM-Pro Premium Heart Rate Strap

Garmin

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Why it made the cut: By tracking metrics such as vertical oscillation, ground contact time, stride length, and vertical ratio, this Garmin heart rate monitor can improve your running form.

Specs:

  • Weight: 2.1 ounces
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, ANT+
  • Battery life: 1 year (training once a day)

Pros:

  • 5 ATM water resistance (can withstand depths of 50 meters)
  • Lightweight
  • Seamless connectivity

Cons:

  • Must connect via ANT+ for running dynamics
  • Optimized for Garmin products

This Garmin strap is the best heart rate monitor for running because it’ll monitor how effectively your feet are pounding the pavement in addition to how forcefully your heart is pounding in your chest. While it’s made to share data with Garmin watches and other devices, it can also connect to third-party apps, including Zwift. Plus, the chest monitor offers an unlimited number of connections via ANT+ (Bluetooth is limited to two), allowing you to share data between multiple devices. The strap is waterproof up to 50 meters and it’ll store heart rate data when your smartwatch, or another device, is out of range (which is 3 meters).

Best for swimming: Apple Watch Series 7

Apple

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Why it made the cut: It’s Apple’s most durable, most advanced fitness tracker to date.

Specs:

  • Weight: 32-51.5 grams, depending on model/case materials
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth
  • Battery life: 18 hours

Pros:

  • ECG app
  • 50 meters of water resistance
  • Detailed fitness tracking

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Requires iOS 15 or later

If you want the best heart rate monitor for swimming that’ll also track your health in great detail, the recently announced Apple Watch Series 7 (which is replacing the Series 6) is the right fit. It carries over the electrical heart sensor and ECG app, which can create a detailed electrocardiogram that’s doctor-office-worthy. The SE and Series 3 (which will remain available) can monitor your heart rate, but they don’t have the ECG app—nor can they monitor your blood oxygen levels. Like the 6, the 7 is capable of withstanding 50 meters of water pressure, and it includes a fitness tracking app that’s tailored to swimming, recording laps and yards in addition to elapsed time and calories burned. The latest Apple Watch also charges 33-times faster than the Series 6, capable of going from 0 to 80 percent in 45 minutes, so it should have energy as you build yours up.

Best for rowing: Scosche Rhythm24 Heart Rate Monitor

Scorsche

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Why it made the cut: This armband lets you find your personal heart rate zone. It also has a battery life that can go the distance and a waterproofing rating that makes it ready to row.  

Specs:

  • Connectivity: Bluetooth Low Energy / ANT+ Connection
  • Battery life: 24 hours
  • Sensor type: Green and Yellow Optical Sensors

Pros:

  • 24 hours of battery life
  • Personalized monitoring
  • Wide compatability
  • IP68 Waterproofing (can survive submersion up to 10 feet)

Cons:

  • Can be difficult to use

If you spend the day on the water, you need a heart rate monitor that will, too. This Scosche monitor offers 24 hours of battery life, as well as up to 13 hours of onboard memory training time (ANT+ FIT file transfer). Plus, the IP68 means splashing won’t bother it and you can even keep it on when you swim laps. This is one of the best monitors for rowing, with LED lights displaying battery life and five heart rate zone indications that are designed to work with different sports. For instance, the running mode focuses on cadence plus distance, while the swimming mode tracks heart rate variability. It’s versatile in its compatibility, too, pairing with many devices, including iPhone models up to 12 and the Galaxy S10.

Best for exercises of all sorts: Myzone MZ-Switch

Myzone

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Why it made the cut: Versatility, durability, reliability. Three is a magic number.

Specs:

  • Weight: Roughly 5.5 grams (sensor)
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, ANT+
  • Battery life: Up to 6 months
  • Sensor type: ECG and PPG

Pros:

  • Two kinds of sensors
  • Three ways to wear
  • Wide compatibility

Cons:

  • Somewhat pricey
  • Only tracks heart rate

Whether you’re a triathlete or just into multiple sports, this versatile device is the perfect training companion. The best heart rate monitor for exercises of all sorts, the MZ-Switch can be worn three ways, meaning it’s “customized” for whatever your pursuits: swimming laps in the pool, skinning up a steep slope, ultramarathoning through grueling terrain, hang-gliding from a plateau, etc. I wore it as a chest strap on bike rides and as a wrist strap on runs, easily switching out the sensor (roughly the size and weight of a quarter) and optimally situating it by using the plastic clip (wrist and arm bands) and metal snaps (chest monitor). 

Using Bluetooth or ANT+, this Myzone heart rate monitor can also sync with an array of devices and programs, from Peloton bikes to the Strava app to Apple watches to MyFitness Pal. I used the Myzone app to log workouts and track stats like calories burned and to easily see what fat burning zone I’d entered based on the color-coded charts—the gray-to-blue-to-green-to-yellow-to-red-system matches the LED flashes of the heart rate monitor’s face. Two sensors, ECG and PPG, help ensure accurate, real-time heart rate readings, no matter where you’re wearing the MZ-Switch. Without comparison to a doctor’s reading, it’s hard to say just how accurate this Myzone monitor was, but I found it consistently delivered a higher heart rate than my Amazfit GTR3 when I was really churning my legs, making it feel more aligned with how I felt my system was pumping.   

Best budget: Wahoo Tickr Heart Rate Monitor

Wahoo

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Why it made the cut: This Wahoo heart rate monitor is relatively versatile but most of all inexpensive.

Specs:

  • Weight: 1.07 ounces
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, ANT+
  • Battery life: Coin cell that lasts for 500 hours of workouts

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Lightweight
  • Compatible with many devices

Cons:

  • Users have reported inaccurate readings
  • Only waterproof up to 5-feet deep

This chest strap has top-mounted LED lights, letting you easily check your heart rate level and connectivity, plus a front clip lets you put it on quickly. The Wahoo monitor works with more than 50 fitness apps such as Zwift, Peloton, and MapMyRun. But if you’re looking to track underwater, you’ll need a deeper dive—this monitor only offers IPX7 protection. And, be warned, some users say this model is “hit and miss,” so this very well could be an example of “you get what you pay for.” At the same time, reviewers also said it “worked fine” and was “easy to use.” Making this our choice for the best heart rate monitor chest strap on a budget.

What to consider when shopping for the best heart rate monitors

From connectivity to comfort, here are some things to consider when shopping for tools to improve your workouts. 

Do you want a wrist band or a chest strap?

Monitors are typically worn one of three ways: either on your wrist, on your arm, or around your chest. Generally, the wrist and armbands are easier to use, while the chest straps boast better accuracy. But, actually, the technology has advanced so much in the past few years that each type of monitor can provide both benefits. Chest straps place electrodes against your skin to measure your heart’s electrical activity. Fitness trackers on the wrist and arm use optical sensors to measure the blood flow in your veins. Both types of sensors provide accurate readings, but that reading is compromised if the sensor is knocked out of position, so it’s important to find a heart rate monitor that provides a secure fit on your body. 

Is the heart rate monitor compatible?

Heart rate monitors connect to phones, smartwatches, and other devices to share data. While Bluetooth heart rate monitors can meet the needs of most people—pairing the monitor with a smartwatch, say—ANT+ allows you to connect the heart monitor to multiple devices at once. So if you’ve got Strava running on your phone and also want to map your run on your wrist, ANT+ can make it a go.

It’s also important to check that the heart rate monitor you purchase supports the operating system on the device you’re planning to pair it with. (Some heart monitors can’t yet communicate with the Apple 13 iPhone, for instance.) Pay attention to app compatibility, as well. Most of the best ones will work with common fitness apps, but it’s a good idea to make sure.

Will you wear it all day? 

The best monitors have batteries that can last for hours and even days. That means the limiting factor in how long you wear a monitor while working out—aside from your own energy level—is often how comfortable it feels on your body. The weight of the device matters some, but materials and fit tend to matter more. Silicone works for wrist bands, and it also adds grip to the softer chest straps. Ultimately, fit and comfort are something you have to decide for yourself.  

How low can it go?

Especially if you’re a swimmer, you need a watertight monitor. Devices with ATM 5 ratings and WR50 can withstand going 50 meters below the surface, while IP68-rated monitors can withstand at least a meter of water for half an hour. Any ratings lower than these can’t reliably go underwater.

What else does it track?

Some monitors track your heartbeat and not much else. Others can monitor your running stride, record steps, and count calories. In addition, some devices can monitor different data points depending on the type of exercise you’re doing—for instance they monitor rhythm and distance while you’re running and heart rate variability while you’re swimming—while other heart monitors track what zone of fat burning you’re in, meaning you don’t have to do any math.  

FAQs

Q: Is it safe to wear a heart rate monitor all day?

It is safe to wear a heart rate monitor all day, but the strap may cause skin irritation.

Q: Are heart monitors with chest straps more accurate?

Heart rate monitors with chest straps are slightly more accurate than wrist monitors and armbands that use optical sensors, only because the optical sensors are more likely to get knocked out of position. Otherwise, the optical sensors can provide as accurate a reading as the electrodes in the best heart rate monitor chest straps.

Q: Is it worth getting a heart rate monitor?

It is worth getting a heart rate monitor if you care about maximizing the benefits of your exercise. Heart rate monitors read your heart rate, letting you know whether you’re burning fat instead of carbohydrates. They can also motivate you to push the pace just a step quicker to rev up your calorie burn.

The final word on finding the best heart rate monitors

The best heart rate monitors instantly tell you how fast your heart is beating, helping you exercise at the right intensity. So whether you’re a novice runner, a beginning bicyclist, or a seasoned swimmer—or one of those superhumans who does all three in a day—the right monitor will help you exercise as efficiently as possible.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best heart rate monitors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best fitness watches in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-fitness-watch/ Thu, 30 Dec 2021 19:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=368530
Four of the best fitness watches sliced together against a white background
Abby Ferguson

These impressive fitness watches will allow you to better track your workout metrics, heart rate, sleep cycles and more.

The post The best fitness watches in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Four of the best fitness watches sliced together against a white background
Abby Ferguson

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

A TEACHER PET blue little tikes smartwatch Little Tikes Tobi Robot Smartwatch
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A handy learning tool disguised as a digital pet.

A MONSTER DEAL Best budget: VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3 VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3
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Fun features without the high price tag make this smartwatch a smart buy.

KEEP KIDS ON TRACK Best health tracker: Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3 Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3
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A stylish activity monitor that counts sheep, strides, and strokes.

If you lead an active lifestyle, are training for competition, or simply want to keep better track of your health, a fitness watch is a necessary addition to your everyday wear. These devices help you focus on what you’ve set out to do, whether running, cycling, swimming, or hiking. Some even allow you to download your favorite songs to onboard storage or take control of smartphone apps like Spotify. You can gain insight into where to maximize your efforts with detailed monitoring of your distance, steps, calories burned, heart rate, and more. Most wearables even provide data you can use to improve your sleep and offer specific training suggestions. No matter your goals, the best fitness watches will help you keep progressing.  

How we chose the best fitness watches

As fitness enthusiasts and long-time athletes, we have used our fair share of fitness trackers. We used our personal experience, editorial reviews, and user feedback to select this guide. When considering the wide array of options available, we looked at what sensors and tech each watch used and what each watch did with all that data in terms of insights and suggestions. Accurate on-wrist heart rate monitoring, SpO2 measurements, and GPS were essential. Usability was a key consideration, as was durability. We prioritized watches that provide free access to your information instead of paid subscription models. 

The best fitness watches: Reviews & Recommendations

With so many brands and products available, there is bound to be a watch that aligns perfectly with your wants and needs. The good news is that you might not have to choose only one must-have feature since most smartwatches run the gamut of fitness-tracking features—though some handle particular needs, like running or sleep tracking, better than others. 

Best overall: Apple Watch Ultra 2

Apple

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Specs

  • Battery life: 36 hours (70 with low power mode)
  • Display type: Always-on OLED Retina 
  • Water resistance: 328 feet
  • Materials: Titanium case
  • Size: 49mm case
  • Weight: 2.16 ounces

Pros

  • Available in three different band styles with multiple colors
  • 3000 nit display more easily viewable in bright sun
  • Made of recycled materials
  • Support for third-party training apps
  • Improved cycling features

Cons

  • Battery life still lags behind other watches
  • Recovery metrics are limited

While the Apple Watch Ultra 2 may be a splurge purchase compared to other fitness watches on this list, its top-shelf feature set makes it worth the cash. Thanks to its (optional) cellular connection, it is the best connected smartwatch for most, meaning you can leave the phone behind. You can listen to music without your phone (just use headphones or earbuds with situational awareness features, please). And you can send and receive messages or calls even if you are trail running (as long as you have service). That’s a great safety feature for fitness watches since you never know when you may twist that ankle and need a ride home. 

The Ultra 2 is highly capable when it comes to insights. The wearable measures your blood oxygen levels and takes electrocardiograms right from your wrist to keep extremely close tabs on your cardiovascular health. Of course, it’ll do the basics, like track your daily activity and measure your workouts, even if they include swimming.

The second iteration of the Apple Watch Ultra brings new cycling features to the table, including the ability to connect Bluetooth power meters, speed, and cadence sensors. It also estimates cycling power and power zones (when using a power meter). Another benefit of the Ultra 2 is that you can connect third-party training apps, such as TrainingPeaks. 

Unfortunately, the battery life of the Ultra 2, while better than the standard Series 9, is still pretty lackluster compared to the competition. And, of course, you’ll only be able to take advantage of all the features we’ve listed with an iPhone. But, the well-rounded features make this the best option for most people looking for a fitness watch. 

Best for the backcountry: Garmin epix Pro (Gen. 2) Sapphire Edition 

Abby Ferguson

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Specs

  • Battery life: Up to 10 days in smartwatch mode (42mm case), 
  • Display type: AMOLED 
  • Water resistance: 10 ATM
  • Materials: Sapphire glass lens with steel bezel
  • Size: 42mm, 47mm, or 51mm case
  • Weight: 2.2 ounces (42mm 

Pros

  • Flashlight is powerful and extremely useful
  • Available in three sizes to fit your wrist best
  • Advanced training metrics and suggestions
  • Features topographic maps and weather overlays

Cons

  • Expensive

If you like to hit the trail less traveled, the Garmin epix Pro (Gen. 2) is the best fitness watch you can get. The watch comes in two configurations (Pro Standard or Pro Sapphire) and three sizes, so you can dial in what you want and need. We particularly like the Pro Sapphire for backcountry use since the Sapphire lens is incredibly durable and scratch-resistant. In fact, it’s the only screen I’ve not managed to scratch, even after using and abusing it. Plus, Garmin tested the watch to U.S. military standards for thermal, shock, and water resistance, so you can trust it will hold up on even the most rugged adventures.

Beyond durability, the epix Pro (Gen. 2) has a built-in LED flashlight on the front side of the watch case. It is surprisingly handy, and I find myself utilizing it almost every day, but it would be especially nice if you are trying to navigate off a trail after dark. You’ll also have access to multi-band GPS ​​for accurate location information, which enables navigation via the topographical maps. I especially like that the map tells you the distance to the next fork to prevent missing a turn—one of several reasons it tops our best hiking watches. Garmin also added weather overlays so you can keep an eye on any storms that may be headed your way, which I have found extremely useful even when just grabbing a beer on the patio of a local brewery.

As with just about any Garmin smartwatch, you’ll have access to a robust list of sensors, activity recording, and insights. The epix Pro (Gen. 2) tracks your heart rate and blood oxygen levels all day and your HRV status while you sleep. It provides a Morning Report so you can get a picture of your sleep, training outlook, and even the weather. The watch will provide daily suggested workouts and even offers animated workouts for you to follow along. It can predict your race times, help you plan race-day strategies, and more. It’s essentially a helpful coach right on your wrist at all times.

The 42mm epix Pro (Gen. 2) offers 10 days of battery life in smartwatch mode or up to 20 hours in GPS mode. The 42mm case size is ideal for my small wrists, but you can also opt for the 47mm or 51mm sizes and will see a boost to battery life in the larger versions. For example, the 51mm Pro Sapphire provides up to 31 days in smartwatch mode or 62 hours in GPS mode, which is a substantial difference. 

The weather map overlay displayed on the Garmin epix Pro on a wrist resting on a table
The weather map overlays are very useful on the epix Pro (Gen. 2), even when just hanging out on the patio of a brewery. Abby Ferguson

Best fitness tracker: Fitbit Sense 2

Fitbit

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Specs

  • Battery life: 6 days
  • Display type: AMOLED
  • Water resistance: 164 feet
  • Materials: Aluminum case
  • Size: 1.5 x 1.5 x 0.45 inches
  • Weight: 0.8 ounces

Pros

  • Slim, minimal design and size
  • Plenty of sensors for health tracking
  • Bright and responsive touchscreen
  • Long battery life

Cons

  • No third-party app support
  • Subscription required to access all features and insights

The watches we’ve included here can be overkill for many people, which is where a fitness tracker comes in. The Fitbit Sense 2 is essentially a paired-down fitness watch. Though don’t let that fool you, it is still highly capable of helping you track your fitness and health. It is packed full of sensors, including a multi-path optical heart rate sensor, cEDA sensor, SpO2 sensor, skin temperature sensor, built-in GPS and GLONASS, ambient light sensor, and more. 

All of those sensors combine to give you useful health stats. It keeps an eye on your heart rate and alerts you if there is anything abnormal. You can track your sleep and stress levels. It automatically tracks exercises and can guide you on when it’s time to rest or workout. And as a smartwatch, you’ll get notifications right on your wrist. 

The lower price of the Sense 2 does mean there are some compromises. For example, if you want to take advantage of some features, such as the Daily Readiness Score or in-depth sleep information, you’ll need to pay for a Premium Fitbit subscription. And even then, it doesn’t provide as thorough performance and health insights as Garmin or Apple options. It also doesn’t support any third-party apps, so you’re stuck with Fitbit Pay, Google Wallet, and Google Maps. And there are no music controls or storage. But if you just want a basic device to help you stay active, the Fitbit Sense 2 is a great option.

Best for running: Garmin Forerunner 965

Abby Ferguson

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Specs

  • Battery life: Up to 23 days in smartwatch mode, 31 hours in GPS mode
  • Display type: AMOLED
  • Water resistance: 5 ATM
  • Materials: Corning Gorilla Glass 3 DX, titanium
  • Size: 1.8 x 1.8 x 0.5 inches
  • Weight: 1.9 ounces

Pros

  • Bright and colorful AMOLED display
  • Lots of customization options
  • Highly accurate GPS and heart rate
  • Lots of training metrics

Cons

  • Pricey
  • A bit large on small wrists

For runners and triathletes, it’s hard to beat the Forerunner 965 (or any Forerunner, in my opinion). Though all of the fitness watches here offer plenty of running features, this Garmin watch is clearly purpose-built to help you truly improve your running performance. Considering the bright and colorful AMOLED display, it offers impressive battery life. Even with daily runs and the always-on display enabled, you should be able to get nearly a week of life out of your watch. And it charges quickly if you need to top it off before going out for a run. 

Garmin hits its training features out of the park, which is no different on the Forerunner 965. The Training Readiness feature looks at your sleep, recovery, training load, and more to better guide your workouts. And the daily suggested workouts can help you when you’re stuck. Garmin will even build training plans based on your races for truly fine-tuned suggestions. And the Training Status feature helps you understand your overall fitness at a glance. 

The Forerunner 965 can track a wide range of workouts, including multisport profiles for triathlons, duathlons, brick workouts, and swimruns. It’s an ideal tool for those focused on multiple disciplines. You can easily customize what you see on your watch for each activity, putting the information that you rely on front and center. The heart rate data is accurate, though wrist-based heart rate monitors don’t work well during swimming activities, so you will want to invest in that accessory if you’re a triathlete.

Beyond workouts, you can get turn-by-turn directions on courses you find or create in the Garmin Connect app or third-party platforms. Or, you can enter your desired distance for suggested routes, which is helpful when running in new areas. I also love the safety features of the Forerunner 965, which allow you to send a message with your live location right from the watch. It can even sense when an incident occurs and send a message automatically. You have to have your phone on you to use those, but it gives me some peace of mind when I’m out running.

Best budget: COROS Pace 2

COROS

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Specs

  • Battery life: 20 days of regular use, 30 hours of activity tracking
  • Display type: LCD
  • Water resistance: 5 ATM
  • Materials: 
  • Size: 1.2 inch
  • Weight: 1.05 ounces

Pros

  • Excellent battery life
  • Available with silicone or nylon straps
  • Very lightweight and low-profile
  • Accurate GPS and heart rate

Cons

  • No music controls or contactless payment options

The COROS Pace 2 is a generation behind the current model, but it’s still an impressive watch, especially for the price. One of the best features of this fitness watch is the battery life. COROS promises up to 20 days of regular use, which includes tracking daily activity and sleep. It also offers up to 30 hours of full GPS battery life, which can last for serious ultramarathon runs. 

Another big advantage of the Pace 2 is how small it is. The watch weighs only 1.05 ounces (with the band) and is very low profile on the wrist. Despite the slim form factor, it is packed with plenty of sensors, including GPS, heart rate monitor, barometric altimeter, accelerometer, compass, gyroscope, and thermometer. You’ll be able to gather plenty of data to guide your training and monitor your health. The display isn’t as bright or beautiful as more expensive watches, and you won’t have access to music controls or contactless payments, but those are minor details for many.

From a training standpoint, the Pace 2 is highly capable. It offers activity tracking for a wide range of spots, including jump rope, swimming, rowing, weight training, and more. The navigation tools make it easy to find your way on runs or hikes. Like Garmin watches, it gives insight into your training status, training load, and recovery time to manage fatigue and prevent injuries. You’ll even have access to pre-designed workouts and plans or one-on-one support from a team of qualified coaches.

What to consider when shopping for the best fitness watch 

Whether you prefer running outside, spinning, or playing group sports like baseball, purchasing a fitness watch can be a great addition to your accessory collection. With sleek and customizable styles, you can wear your watch daily, no matter your activity. But before you buy a wearable designed to help you prioritize your health, you’ll need to prioritize the features that are your must-haves. 

Activity tracking and preferences

While many fitness watches are fitness omnivores—monitoring workouts of all stripes—some watches will specialize in certain activities. For example, Garmin tailored its Forerunner series of watches to runners with running-specific activity tracking, performance metrics, and more. If you focus on cycling or strength training, such metrics may be irrelevant to you. Also, if you opt for a specialized device that differs from your preferred workout type, you may not be able to track what you need due to limited sports profiles. As a result, it’s important to put some thought into what you most frequently participate in and look at what each fitness watch offers in terms of tracking and insights for that activity.

Battery life

A fitness watch doesn’t do much good if you need to constantly take it off in order to charge the battery. You’ll want to keep an eye on the promised battery life from the manufacturer, but remember to take that with a grain of salt. Individual usage and conditions can impact battery life significantly. For example, if you enable an always-on display and use the most precise level of GPS for long activities on a daily basis, you will burn through the battery much faster than someone who performs short workouts without the display on at all times.

Battery life is especially important for those who participate in long-lasting activities, such as hours-long trail runs or bike rides. For serious athletes, look for a model that offers 20 to 30 hours (or more) of battery life in GPS mode. If you are a more casual user but still hate needing to charge your device frequently, focus on fitness watches with days or even weeks-long battery life in smartwatch mode.

Performance metrics & training features

Some of us need a nudge to push workouts to the next level. Many devices offer lots of training tools to help you understand your current performance level and what you need to do to improve it. Some may feature built-in workout suggestions to specifically guide you. Others include access to fitness communities that put you in touch with both peers and professional coaches, both of which can offer inspiration or exercise routines to keep you motivated or mix up your routine if you get bored. 

Phone connectivity

The line between smartwatch and fitness watch has become incredibly blurry, with the two essentially being synonymous at this point. That said, there are varying levels of phone connectivity options in fitness watches that may impact what is best for you. 

Cheaper fitness trackers typically won’t offer built-in GPS, instead relying on your phone for connected GPS. That means you must have your phone on you for mapping, distance, and pace information. Pricier fitness watches all feature built-in GPS so that you can track your workouts without your phone. Some models will also provide on-board storage to save music or podcasts, meaning you can keep yourself entertained without having your phone on hand. Others may allow you to control your music, but you will need your phone on you to actually listen. 

Lastly, most fitness watches do not have a cellular connection, so you won’t be able to send or make calls on the watch itself. And you won’t be able to receive notifications if you don’t have your phone nearby. Look at the Apple Watch or Samsung Watch LTE versions if you want a device that can do it all. 

Sleep tracking

There are some days when you wake up ready to greet the day and others where you just want to pull the covers back over your head. It can be hard to know the difference between a good night’s sleep and a rough one, but fitness watches with sleep-tracking capabilities can help you get to the bottom of it. Most fitness watches monitor your heart rate and movement, which is closely related to sleep cycles. Once the device’s algorithmic smarts crunch all that information, it’ll help you understand why and when you are waking up. Then, you can take action to resolve the issue. Some watches even come with built-in meditation apps like Breath or Calm to help you wind down before bed. 

Advanced health metrics 

More health-conscious individuals may want a watch that tracks their fitness activity and offers a deeper understanding of their health beyond heart rates and calorie burns. Most Garmin watches, as well as the Apple Watch, include sensors to track your cardiovascular health by measuring your blood oxygen levels and taking electrocardiograms. This provides a better picture of your overall health, which can be very useful. 

FAQs

Q: Should I get a fitness tracker or a smartwatch?

Whether you should get a fitness tracker or smartwatch depends on your goals, preferences, and budget. The two device styles overlap more these days, making the line between them quite blurry. Most fitness trackers will connect with your phone and provide notifications like smartwatches. But there are still some important differences.

The main differences between fitness trackers and smartwatches are their size, cost, and features. Fitness trackers are typically smaller and more minimal in design. That means fewer health sensors and generally a lack of built-in GPS. They are also more affordable. Smartwatches generally pack more tech inside and, as a result, are larger and more expensive. But they are also more capable for serious fitness tracking. 

If you want a basic, affordable device to keep track of your activity level, a fitness tracker is the way to go. If you want more robust fitness and health monitoring options, a smartwatch with fitness features will be worth the money.

Q:

Is it worth getting a fitness watch? 

A fitness watch brings together the best of a fitness tracker with the connectivity of a smartwatch. It can track important information in real-time—such as calories burned, steps taken, distance covered, and sleep cycles—and motivate you to maximize your workouts. With the numbers and details provided, you can track your progress and make the necessary changes to improve your health and ensure you get the best workout. If you are serious about your training, a fitness watch is a key tool in helping you progress and is absolutely worth it. 

Q:

What is the best budget fitness tracker? 

The best budget fitness tracker is the Amazfit Band 7. However, it is very basic and won’t be the best option for those serious about their fitness. If you want a step up without spending a fortune, the COROS Pace 2 is the best budget fitness watch.

Final thoughts on the best fitness watch

The best fitness watch will track your activity metrics and provide insight as to where improvements can be made. These devices are full of advanced technology to help you progress and monitor your fitness and health while preventing you from overtraining. They can also be used as smartwatches, so you are always connected, even when hitting the gym. The best option for you depends on your goals, priorities, and budget, but with so many options available, you’re sure to find the right fit. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best fitness watches in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best cheap fitness trackers in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-cheap-fitness-trackers/ Tue, 26 Sep 2023 20:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=573719
Four of the best cheap fitness trackers sliced together against a white background
Abby Ferguson

These affordable fitness trackers will help you track moving move for less.

The post The best cheap fitness trackers in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Four of the best cheap fitness trackers sliced together against a white background
Abby Ferguson

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall The Garmin vívosmart 5 cheap fitness tracker with black band against a white background Garmin vívosmart 5
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This Garmin fitness tracker offers the ideal balance of price and features.

Best GPS The Fitbit Charge 5 cheap fitness tracker with a black band against a white background Fitbit Charge 5
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The Fitbit Charge 5 offers built-in GPS that is fast to connect.

Best budget Amazfit Band 7 budget fitness tracker on a wrist with a green background Amazfit Band 7
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You’ll get plenty of features with a comfortable design in this budget fitness tracker.

Gone are the days of basic pedometers being the only option for cheap fitness trackers. These days, even budget-friendly trackers offer advanced training and data-gathering functionality to help you monitor and push toward your fitness and health goals. Most even offer a plethora of smartwatch features to keep you connected when you’re on the move. While these budget options won’t give you the same level of performance as expensive fitness watches, you don’t need to drop a fortune to get a capable device. The best cheap fitness trackers will provide plenty of insight to keep you motivated and moving. 

How we chose the best cheap fitness trackers

As a fitness enthusiast and frequent watch reviewer, I have used countless fitness trackers and smartwatches. When selecting the fitness trackers included in this guide, price was, of course, one of the most important factors. Beyond that, we considered sensors and tracking abilities, battery life, fit, and durability. Although cheap fitness trackers are inherently more basic than expensive fitness watches, we also looked at advanced features, such as sleep tracking, performance metrics, and more. We made our selections on a mix of hands-on experience, editorial reviews, and user feedback. 

The best cheap fitness trackers: Reviews & Recommendations

The best cheap fitness tracker for each person will vary, as your individual needs and goals will dictate which features are necessary. Despite their budget-friendly prices, the options below are highly capable and offer a range of capabilities and designs so that you can find the best device for your lifestyle.

Best overall: Garmin vívosmart 5

Garmin

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Specs

  • Built-in GPS: No
  • Heart rate monitor: Yes
  • Water resistance: 164 feet 
  • Battery life: 7 days
  • Display size: 0.41 x 0.73 inches
  • Weight: 0.86 ounces (small/medium), 0.93 ounces (large)

Pros

  • Free access to all your data
  • Available in two sizes
  • Lightweight, minimal design
  • Accurate heart rate and sleep tracking
  • Activity tracking for a range of activities

Cons

  • No built-in GPS

Garmin’s smartwatches are some of the best fitness watches available, though most come with steep price tags. The vívosmart 5 comes at a much lower price point with more beginner-friendly features. Plus, Garmin doesn’t charge extra to access all of your data and training assistance features, which is why it earns our top spot. 

Despite being a cheap fitness tracker, the vívosmart 5 still gets plenty of Garmin’s advanced technology and accurate data collection so that you can maximize your training without spending too much. The built-in heart rate monitor constantly monitors and can alert you if your rhythm is too high or low while at rest. And it helps you understand how hard you are working during an activity. It also features a pulse ox sensor to check your blood oxygen saturation, though you’ll have to do that during the day manually.

As is typical of cheap fitness trackers, this device doesn’t offer built-in GPS. Instead, it relies on connected GPS with your phone. It also offers limited sports apps for activity tracking compared to Garmin’s more expensive models. But it tracks your sleep, stress, and respiration, and you can log your fluid intake, providing a well-rounded picture of your health. And you can get notifications from your smartphone, which adds a lot of convenience. 

Best for sleep: Fitbit Inspire 3

Fitbit

SEE IT

Specs

  • Built-in GPS: No
  • Heart rate monitor: Yes
  • Water resistance: 164 feet
  • Battery life: 10 days
  • Display size: 1.5 x 0.7 x 0.5 inches
  • Weight: 3.5 ounces

Pros

  • Lightweight and slim
  • Long battery life
  • Bright AMOLED display
  • Provides helpful sleep insight

Cons

  • Requires a subscription for advanced insights and workout suggestions

While tracking your sleep may seem unnecessary, it can provide lots of insight and benefits to help you improve your health and fitness. The Fitbit Inspire 3 automatically tracks your sleep at night, providing information on how long you spent in light, deep, and REM sleep stages. It provides a Sleep Score at the night’s end so you can get the big picture. Plus, you can set a vibrating alarm to wake you up during the optimal sleep stage so that you actually feel refreshed when you wake up.

To keep things fun, the Inspire 3 pairs you with a sleep animal and shares a monthly personalized analysis of your sleep. However, you’ll need to pay for a Fitbit Premium subscription to get this feature. In fact, you need to pay for the Premium subscription for quite a few insights—including detailed sleep data, wellness reports, and a Daily Readiness Score—which keeps the Inspire 3 from earning the top spot. 

Beyond sleep, the Inspire 3 can track your steps and activities. The built-in heart rate sensor and SpO2 sensors provide useful information for tracking your fitness, such as your VO2 Max and heart rate zone information. It relies on connected GPS, so you’ll need your phone for accurate distance and pace information. But you can get all your phone notifications on the watch, which is always an added convenience layer. 

Best for minimalists: Whoop 4.0

Nick Hilden

SEE IT

Specs

  • Built-in GPS: No
  • Heart rate monitor: Yes
  • Water resistance: 32 feet for 2 hours (IP68)
  • Battery life: 4 to 5 days
  • Display size: N/A
  • Weight: 1 ounce

Pros

  • Comfortable to wear for extended periods
  • Lots of recovery insights
  • Minimal, screen-free design
  • Can be worn in many ways with Whoop accessories

Cons

  • Requires a pricey monthly subscription

The Whoop 4.0 comes across as basic thanks to its minimalist design that bucks the trend of fitness trackers turned smartwatches. This unique device doesn’t feature a screen of any sort. You won’t be distracted by notifications popping up on your wrist or be preoccupied with keeping an eye on all those numbers during your workout. However, although the Whoop is basic in looks, it is not basic in capabilities.

The Whoop 4.0 features blood oxygen, skin temperature, and heart rate sensors to provide plenty of data. It can automatically detect a workout, or you can start one manually in the app. If you are strength training, the Whoop can track weights, reps, and sets. Then, the app takes all that data and provides lots of useful recovery information to help you get the most out of your workouts. 

Another benefit of the Whoop is that you can purchase a range of clothing items, including swimsuits, underwear, shirts, and more, that Whoop designed to hold the fitness tracker, allowing you to go wristband-free. That’s an ideal option for a lot of different sports and activities. Despite the lack of a screen, the Whoop 4.0 is the most expensive option on our list. Unfortunately, it also requires a pricey monthly subscription. But this is a unique device that many people prefer over traditional smartwatch-style trackers. 

Best GPS: Fitbit Charge 5

Fitbit

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Specs

  • Built-in GPS: Yes
  • Heart rate monitor: Yes
  • Water resistance: 164 feet
  • Battery life: 7 days
  • Display size: 0.86 X 0.58 inches
  • Weight: 1.02 ounces

Pros

  • GPS is fast to connect
  • Includes an ECG app for monitoring irregular heart rhythms
  • Sleek, slim design
  • Bright touchscreen

Cons

  • Lack of buttons can be frustrating

Most cheap fitness trackers only offer connected GPS, which isn’t very accurate and requires you to always keep your phone on you. But the Fitbit Charge 5 features built-in GPS, so you can get accurate pace and distance data even if you leave your phone behind. And it’s quick to connect, so you won’t be stuck waiting for it when you want to start your run.

Another bonus with the Charge 5 is the ECG app for detecting heart rhythm issues. You can even share this information directly with your doctor to assist in diagnosing problems. It also tracks your heart rate all day, including during exercise and at night, in order to provide fitness and sleep insights. The automatic exercise tracking is ideal for those who tend to forget to start their watch when beginning activities. And it offers a range of exercise modes with live stats right on your wrist during your workout. 

The Charge 5 features the classic fitness tracker design profile with a slim, minimal look. Fitbit opted for a button-free design on it, though, which means you’ll need to rely on the touchscreen for everything. That can get a bit annoying at times, but the touchscreen is nice and bright, so you’ll easily be able to see it even in bright sunlight. 

Best value: Xiaomi Band 7 Pro

Xiaomi

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Specs

  • Built-in GPS: Yes
  • Heart rate monitor: Yes 
  • Water resistance: 164 feet
  • Battery life: 12 days
  • Display size: 1.64 inches
  • Weight: 0.7 ounces

Pros

  • Large, high-quality display
  • Built-in GPS
  • Affordable price
  • Lots of workout and health-tracking features

Cons

  • Sleep tracking isn’t accurate
  • Mi Fitness app isn’t very user-friendly

Typically, if you want more advanced fitness tracking features, such as built-in GPS, sleep tracking, and a large display, you’ll need to spend well over $100. The Xiaomi Band 7 Pro offers a much more affordable alternative while ticking those boxes. 

The most surprising feature for a sub-$100 watch is the built-in GPS. It even supports BeiDou, GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and QZSS satellite systems for more accurate location information. Plus, you can load your running course and track your progress right on your wrist. The Band 7 Pro offers 110 plus fitness modes for all levels of athletes and offers all-day heart rate tracking with a blood oxygen sensor. 

Another feature that makes this cheap fitness tracker stand out is the large display. It offers a 1.64-inch AMOLED touchscreen display. It features an ambient light sensor to automatically adjust brightness, which is not typically found in such budget-friendly devices. The battery should last you 12 days, depending on how you use it, and you’ll even have access to Amazon Alexa voice assistant. Overall, the Band 7 packs a lot of features into an attractive and affordable watch. 

Best advanced: Garmin Forerunner 55

Brian Stillman

SEE IT

Specs

  • Built-in GPS: Yes
  • Heart rate monitor: Yes
  • Water resistance: 164 feet
  • Battery life: Up to 2 weeks (smartwatch mode), or 20 hours (GPS mode)
  • Display size: 1.04 inches
  • Weight: 1.3 ounces

Pros

  • Provides workout and recovery time suggestions
  • Highly accurate GPS and heart rate
  • Easy to use
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Lacks a touchscreen

If you are starting to get more serious with your training, a step above a fitness tracker may be the way to go. The Garmin Forerunner 55 is a beginner-friendly running watch that still comes at a relatively affordable price, especially for what you are getting. For starters, it is lightweight and small, making it ideal even for those with small wrists. 

Garmin packed the watch with highly accurate GPS (as well as GLONASS and Galileo) so you can get detailed pace, distance, and interval data. It also features Garmin’s built-in rate monitor for all-day heart rate monitoring at rest and during activities. And it offers plenty of built-in sports apps for tracking your favorite activities. 

This watch is an ideal choice for runners for a few reasons. It offers cadence alerts to help you keep your cadence consistent. The PacePro technology helps you plan a race strategy for a selected course or distance, and you’ll also get daily suggested workouts based on your training history, fitness level, and recovery time. 

You’ll miss out on some of the more advanced features (sleep tracking, multi-band GPS tracking, and more) of Garmin’s more expensive watches, such as the Forerunner 955. But if you are just getting started on your running journey, you can’t go wrong with the Forerunner 55. To read more about this highly capable cheap fitness tracker, check out our full review

Best budget: Amazfit Band 7

Abby Ferguson

SEE IT

Specs

  • Built-in GPS: No
  • Heart rate monitor: Yes
  • Water resistance: 164 feet
  • Battery life: 18 days
  • Display size: 1.47 inches
  • Weight: 0.96 ounces

Pros

  • Very lightweight
  • Affordable
  • Accurate heart rate monitor
  • Good battery life

Cons

  • Touchscreen is a little finicky

If you’re searching for one of the cheapest fitness trackers available to get you started on the road to better fitness and health, the Amazfit Band 7 is your best bet. The Band 7 features a classic fitness tracker design with a narrow rectangular shape. It’s also very lightweight, which makes it more comfortable to wear, even for days on end. The AMOLED display is colorful and bright, though there is no ambient light sensor, so you’ll have to adjust brightness on your own. But it’s easy to see at full brightness even in full sun. 

The Amazfit Band 7 features a heart rate monitor and blood oxygen sensor wrapped up into one (BioTracker 3.0 PPG biometric sensor), providing accurate data. It can calculate your VO2 Max, stress levels, and sleep. I found those numbers to be on par with the more expensive Garmin watches I’ve used, which is impressive. And Amazfit provides lots of help text to explain what all those numbers actually mean. It can be a great tool for starting a fitness journey. 

As with most cheap fitness trackers, the Band 7 relies on connected GPS, so you’ll need to keep your phone on you for any activities where location, pace, or distance are important. And keep in mind that even with your phone’s GPS, those numbers won’t be very accurate. I found it to vary pretty significantly from my watch with built-in, multi-band GPS. 

Despite the budget-friendly price, the Band 7 promises up to 18 hours of battery life. I got roughly 16 days at a time in my testing, which is impressive for such a cheap fitness tracker. The watch’s touchscreen is almost too sensitive, and there are no physical buttons, so you’ll be stuck relying on that. But despite its shortcomings, I was very impressed with the Band 7. To learn more, check out our full review

Things to consider before buying a cheap fitness tracker

Just like any fitness tracker or watch, cheap fitness trackers come in a range of styles with various features. Which is best for you depends on your goals and how you plan to use the watch. But the following categories will help guide your decision in selecting the best cheap fitness tracker for you. 

Steps & heart rate

If you’re looking for a fitness tracker, you likely want to capture data from your workouts and daily life. Fitness trackers come with a wide range of data-collecting sensors. However, this is the one area where companies make sacrifices in order to offer lower-priced models. The result is that you will see fewer options on cheap fitness trackers when compared to more expensive devices. Nevertheless, there are two key sensors to look for if you want to use your tracker for fitness goals. 

The most basic thing to look for is an accelerometer. The accelerometer constantly senses the movements of the body in order to count your steps. All fitness trackers will at least be able to count your steps (just like the good old days). It will give you basic insight into your activity on a particular day.  

Most will also feature a built-in heart rate monitor. Some will offer additional sensors within the heart rate monitor array, including a pulse ox. This combination allows the device to capture additional data, such as blood oxygen levels, heart rate variability, sleep insight, training status, and more. That’s why a heart rate monitor is such a vital component of a well-rounded fitness tracker, as it gives you a much better idea of your fitness and progression to goals. 

GPS

Beyond step counting and heart rate monitoring, you’ll be limited in what the cheap fitness tracker provides. That includes GPS functionality. GPS connectivity helps provide accurate distance and pace information and can also map your activities to show where you ran or biked. 

Most cheap fitness trackers will rely on your phone for GPS, also called tethered or connected GPS. This method isn’t as accurate as built-in GPS, and it means that you have to keep your phone on you. That’s not a problem for some since you would have it on you anyway. And you may not be concerned about super precise pace and distance information either.

Others may get annoyed by the prospect of always carrying around a phone. Or perhaps you want accurate insights. If that is likely to be you, be sure to opt for a fitness tracker that features a built-in GPS unit.

Activity tracking

These days, most fitness trackers will also be able to track specific types of workouts. The types of workouts that a watch can record vary across brands and models, with some only supporting a small handful and others providing a robust list of activities. 

If all you take part in is the most common workouts—such as running, biking, or walking—then a basic fitness tracker with limited tracking abilities will get the job done. However, if you like to participate in racquet sports, swimming, weight lifting, or any other of the less common movements, you’ll want to opt for a fitness tracker with a longer list of options. 

Battery life

Like with any technology, you’ll be at the whim of your cheap fitness tracker’s battery life. The range of battery life across these devices is significant, though. Look carefully at promised battery life numbers, especially if you don’t want to be stuck charging your watch daily. 

Smartwatch abilities

As technology has progressed, the line between fitness tracker and smartwatch has become blurred to the point of nearly being indistinguishable. The result is that even cheap fitness trackers act as connected smartwatches. They won’t offer cell service like the Apple Watch, but they will tell the time and allow you to receive notifications from your phone when you have it nearby. 

Beyond those basic functions, some will even allow you to select from quick responses to respond to text messages. Certain watches may provide weather information or other basic insights that they pull from your phone. If you want a fully connected wearable, look for a device with a long list of smartwatch functions. And you’ll also want to verify that it will work with your phone.  

FAQs

Q: How much should I spend on a fitness watch?

How much you should spend on a fitness watch comes down to what you want to use the watch for and what your budget is. You can easily spend over $1,000 on a fitness watch, but that doesn’t mean you need to. In general, a fitness watch around $200 or $300 will provide an excellent list of features and tools to help you with your fitness. But you can also spend as little as $50 on a very capable fitness tracker. 

Q: Can I use my phone as a fitness tracker?

Yes, you can use your phone as a basic fitness tracker with the help of various apps. Your phone will allow you to count steps and utilize GPS for distance and pace information on runs or hikes. Some apps even allow you to pair a heart rate monitor to collect heart rate information during workouts. 

However, the steps and GPS data collected by your phone will not be as accurate as a dedicated fitness tracker or watch. And it means that you need to always have your phone on you, which isn’t ideal in some situations. While it will work in a pinch or as a basic introduction to fitness tracking, if you want accurate data for a better idea of your performance and progression, a fitness tracker is the way to go. 

Q: Is it OK to sleep with a fitness tracker on?

It is absolutely okay to sleep with a fitness tracker on. In fact, many offer sleep-tracking functionality to give you a better picture of your overall health and training readiness. That said, whether you want to wear a fitness tracker while you sleep or not is a matter of personal preference, as not everyone enjoys having something on their wrist while they sleep.  

Q: Is GPS necessary for a fitness tracker?

GPS is not necessary for a fitness tracker. Many cheap fitness trackers will not offer built-in GPS in order to keep the price and size of the watch down. Instead, they rely on your phone’s GPS (tethered GPS) for location data. 

The downside to a fitness tracker without GPS is that you won’t get as accurate information for distance, pace, or location. In my testing, those numbers can be wildly inaccurate compared to a watch with GPS. If you just want a basic device to help you keep track of your workouts, it may not matter. But if you are training for something specific or want accurate data, you will want to look for a fitness tracker with built-in GPS.

Final thoughts on the best cheap fitness trackers

Though the fancy, expensive fitness watches are certainly cool, they are, quite frankly, overkill for most people. If you are simply focused on getting or staying active, a cheap fitness tracker will be more than enough. The best option for you will depend on what type of activities you like to participate in, what information you want from your watch, and your style preferences. No matter what you’re looking for, one of the watches included here should meet your needs.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best cheap fitness trackers in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best smart glasses of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-smart-glasses/ Wed, 04 May 2022 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=440777
A lineup of smart glasses on a white background
Amanda Reed

The future’s so smart, you gotta wear shades—and a pair of smart glasses will make your life easier and brighter.

The post The best smart glasses of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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A lineup of smart glasses on a white background
Amanda Reed

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall A pair of the Bose Frames Tempo on a blue and white background Bose Frames Tempo
SEE IT

Audio hardware mainstay Bose predictably delivers the best sound in smart glasses.

Best for video A pair of TechKesn Sunglasses on a blue and white background iVue Vista
SEE IT

Polarized lenses provide the best protection for your eyes in effectively prevent ultraviolet rays.

Best for social media Ray-Ban Stories Review Ray-Ban Stories
SEE IT

Facebook and Ray-Bans made a solid pair of smart glasses with speakers and camera features.

Phones, watches, TVs—they can make anything smart these days, even glasses! We may not have flying cars yet but we can live out our cyborg fantasies with high-tech glasses that take pictures and video, let us talk to our digital assistants hands-free, and more! They can still be a fun tech toy for early adopters or a life-changing accessibility tool. The expectations of what “smart glasses” can and/or should do haven’t quite crystallized yet, so the capabilities they offer vary widely—as do their price tags. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate the market to find the best smart glasses for your particular needs and budget.

How we chose the best smart glasses

The smart glasses space is still taking shape, so it’s hard to say what glasses are universally “the best.” Judging glasses with AR functionality requires a different approach than judging glasses that play music and take pictures. To cover the gamut fairly, we’ve divided our selections by their strengths, whether you want to listen to music, record videos, post to social media, etc. We looked for smart glasses that were well-reviewed by both consumers and professionals and, as much as possible, came from manufacturers with proven track records for delivering resilient and comparably sophisticated consumer tech.

The best smart glasses: Reviews & Recommendations

Although most smart glasses fall short of the dream established by Google Glass nearly a decade ago—repackaging functions from our phones and earbuds into a new form—there are still standouts that marry fun and function. If you’re looking to get on the start of the smart glasses wave, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled the cream of the crop to help you find the perfect pair of cutting-edge smart specs, no matter your needs or budget.

Best overall: Bose Frames Tempo

Bose

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Bose Frames Tempo sounds better than any other smart glasses out there.

Specs

  • Lens: Polarized in various colors (prescription options available)
  • Battery: 8 hours play time, 1 hour charge time
  • Camera: N/A
  • Audio: Open-ear
  • Microphone: 2 mic array
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth
  • Water resistance: IPX4

Pros

  • Clear speakers
  • Excellent microphone
  • Intuitive controls
  • Long battery life

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Tight on large heads

Bose has been a leader in the American audio industry since the 1960s, and its take on smart glasses, the Bose Frames, lives up to that legacy with the highest-quality speakers and microphone array available in a pair of shades. Bose makes three second-generation variations on the Frames—Tenor, Soprano, and Tempo—with varying styles and specs. We recommend the Tempo, the athletic style, out of the three because it has the best speakers, gets longer battery life, and charges by generic USB-C, rather than a proprietary cable. That said, the other models are close enough to the Tempo in overall quality that you shouldn’t be afraid to pick the glasses that fit your style.

Best for social media: Ray-Ban Stories

Mike Epstein

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Meta wisely partnered with a company that understands the “glasses” part of smart glasses.

Specs

  • Lens: Colors, blue light, non-polarized, UV-protection, transitions (prescription options available)
  • Battery: 3 hours use, 1 hour to charge
  • Camera: 5MP sensor, up to 1414 x 1414p/30fps video, up to 2592 x 1944p stills
  • Audio: Open-ear
  • Microphone: 3 mic array
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth
  • Water resistance: N/A

Pros

  • Classic Ray-Ban style
  • Great speakers and call quality
  • Charging case
  • Easy controls

Cons

  • Require Facebook account

Facebook/Meta is an obvious tech vertical stakeholder for smart glasses, whether they take photos or deliver the “metaverse” via AR. For its first foray into smart glasses, it teamed up with Ray-Ban to create a stylish pair of shades that people will want to wear. The Ray-Ban Stories come in various styles, including the iconic Wayfarers, with prescriptions available. The photo/video camera controls are intuitive both on the frames or with voice commands. The main downside is that you need to have a Facebook account to use them, even though you don’t have to funnel the pictures through Facebook or Instagram. As we noted in our full review, that connection may leave some people conflicted. In the end, though, they’re solid, sharp-looking shades with both audio and camera functionality.

Best budget: TechKen Sunglasses

TechKen

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The TechKen Sunglasses are a bargain-basement pair of smart sporting sunglasses for when you just need the basics.

Specs

  • Lens: Colors, clear, polarized (no prescription options)
  • Battery: 7-9 hours use, 2 hours charge time
  • Video: N/A
  • Audio: Earbuds
  • Microphone: Yes
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth
  • Water resistance: N/A

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Built-in earbuds and microphone
  • Great battery life

Cons

  • Minimal smart features
  • Cheap construction

TechKen’s Sunglasses are the least “smart” of the glasses on our list. They’re effectively just a pair of Bluetooth earbuds and a microphone built into a pair of sports sunglasses and no other intelligent features to speak of. Then again, they cost $16 versus $100-$300 for any option from a major manufacturer. Earbuds tend to fall out, and headphones conflict with helmets or hats, so these can be a great way to listen to music or podcasts and take hands-free calls while having outdoor adventures without worrying that you’ll lose an expensive wireless earbud.

What to consider when buying the best smart glasses

Right now, most smart glasses feature conventional eyeglass or sunglass lenses with some combination of cameras, microphones, and speakers built into the frames, offloading the core features of your smartphone into a wearable device you can operate without reaching into your pocket. And they connect to your phone via Bluetooth, just like an Apple Watch, etc. You might think of them as a more casual alternative to a pair of wireless headphones—they play music and let you take phone calls, but without blocking the outside world.

The more advanced version(s) of smart glasses—those that support augmented reality—technically exist but are highly niche products with very limited functionality. Unless you’re an AR developer, you will probably have more fun with the speakers and cameras.

Open-ear audio and bone conduction

Almost all of our current picks that have audio playback (besides the budget option with attached earbuds) use “open-ear audio.” Rather than covering or inserting something into the ear, these glasses have little speakers built into the frames that point down toward your ears, playing music that you can hear clearly while allowing you to maintain awareness of your surroundings.

Some smart glasses avoid speakers altogether and use bone-conduction technology, which transmits audio through direct vibrations onto your facial bones, rather than through the air as sound waves. Directional speakers seem to be more common at the moment since they sound a bit clearer, with the caveat that some of their sound bleeds to your surroundings. By contrast, bone conduction sounds slightly less clear but is extremely discreet. Do not, however, set your expectations for audio quality especially high in either case. Smart glasses are optimized for convenience and comfort, not high-fidelity sound.

Battery life and storage

Whatever your smart glasses do, their battery life informs how long they’ll be able to do it. Consider how long you hope to be out and about taking pictures and calls without needing to plug your glasses in. Likewise, most smart glasses have very limited internal storage. You will need to wirelessly offload your photos and videos from your glasses to your phone regularly to keep its hard drive clear, as well as edit, caption, and post anything you take.

Water resistance

Since smart glasses pack delicate electronics into the frames, they are usually rated for some amount of protection against water and dust. The standard maintained by the International Electrotechnical Commission, or IEC, is called an IP rating, which is short for “Ingress Protection.” The water/dust resistance rating features two numbers, which you’ll see on a spec sheet as part of an IP rating—“IPXX.” The first X is a score from 0 to 6, measuring how well it keeps out solids—dust, sand, etc. The second, rated between 0 and 9, indicates how well it keeps out liquids. An X left in either spot means that the product was not tested for that resistance, respectively. 

Every pair of glasses on our list maxes out either number at “4” ratings, which translates to protection against physical objects larger than 1mm and against splashing liquids but not being submerged. That seems to be the current standard, though there are exceptions. For example, the Snapchat Spectacles 2 featured IPX7 protection, allowing shallow immersion to take underwater pics, but that capability was removed for the next iteration.

State of the AR(t)

If this is your first foray into the smart glasses space, you might have some lofty expectations about the current state of augmented reality (AR), which you’ll need to temper. AR glasses are still too new, complicated, and expensive for wide consumer use. Names you may have heard like the Microsoft Hololens 2 start at $3,500, as they’re designed for research and industrial applications, not laying out Google Maps directions on the street in front of you. We’ve included one option on our list, the Vuzix Blade, which splits the difference between function and cost better than most for the most enthusiastic early adopters. For the rest of us, true AR is still on the backburner.

Don’t forget: They’re also glasses!

Many people need their smart glasses to also function as regular old eyewear that provides vision correction on top of their onboard A/V suite. Some manufacturers offer the ability to purchase glasses with prescription options upfront. Others require you to find and purchase your own after-market lenses (which we will note below). Either way, be prepared to pay significantly more money for a pair of smart glasses with your prescription.

FAQs

Q: How much do smart glasses cost?

The range of what people call smart glasses is still extremely wide. Right now, our list ranges from roughly $16 to $1,000. That said, the majority of smart glasses with speakers and/or a camera generally cost between $150 and $300.

Q: What are smart glasses used for?

Smart glasses typically pair to a smartphone over Bluetooth, operating as a headset with built-in speakers and a microphone for taking calls and using a digital assistant. Some also feature cameras built into the frames, allowing you to record pictures and video. There are also a very small number of AR-enabled smart glasses, which overlay images into your field of view, but they are the exception, not the rule.

Q: What is the battery life of smart glasses?

Battery life also varies quite widely among smart glasses. Even within a given pair can vary quite a bit, depending on how heavily you use them. At a minimum, most smart glasses allow at least an hour of active use but ideally last a few hours. In general, you should expect that recording video on a pair of smart glasses will drain their battery more quickly than listening using their audio features.

Final thoughts on the best smart glasses

Smart glasses are still a new form of technology, which makes this an exciting time to get into them. Each new iteration has the potential to make massive functional improvements over the last. Whether you just want to more conveniently listen to music on the go, or you’re excited about the posthuman future of technological enhancement, there’s probably a pair of smart glasses out there for you, or there will be soon.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best smart glasses of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best fitness trackers of 2023, tested and reviewed https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-fitness-tracker/ Sun, 18 Jul 2021 20:59:00 +0000 https://stg.popsci.com/uncategorized/best-fitness-tracker/
Four fitness trackers sliced together against a white background
Abby Ferguson

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a pro athlete, up your game with these impressive fitness trackers.

The post The best fitness trackers of 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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Four fitness trackers sliced together against a white background
Abby Ferguson

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Best overall The Apple Watch Series 8 on a wrist Apple Watch Series 8
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You’ll get accurate fitness tracking abilities plus all your iPhone notifications.

Best for heart rate monitoring Polar Ignite 3 fitness tracker Polar Ignite 3
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It’s accurate heart rate sensor provides plenty of data to track your fitness and health.

Best with GPS Garmin epix 2 Pro on a wrist in front of a trail through a forest Garmin epix Pro
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The highly accurate GPS and detailed maps keep you safer in the outdoors.

The very first fitness trackers were rudimentary step-counters, but technology has progressed drastically since then. Whether you want to hit that 10,000 daily step goal, monitor your sleep, or train in a specific heart rate zone, there’s a wrist-mounted wearable for you. Plus, most don’t just log and display info. They link with your smartphone and use sophisticated apps to show where you are in relation to your fitness goals and how you’re doing compared to historical data. With so many options, how do you know which is the best? From product design to functionality and battery life, we’ve tracked down everything you need to know to pick the best fitness tracker for you.

How we chose the best fitness trackers

These days, the line between fitness tracker and advanced smartwatch is incredibly blurred, with the terms essentially used interchangeably. However, not everyone wants an expensive, robust fitness watch. As a result, we aimed to select models that would appeal to serious fitness enthusiasts and casual users alike. 

When selecting the fitness trackers included here, we looked at a range of features. GPS, water resistance, compatibility, and other health-tracking abilities were all important considerations. We also evaluated battery life, build quality, and comfort level. We based our recommendations on a mixture of hands-on experience, editorial reviews, and user feedback. 

The best fitness trackers: Reviews & Recommendations

In a world that already bombards us with information, do we really need more data in our lives? The quick answer, if you’re serious about getting fit, is “yes.” Research shows that setting goals, benchmarking progress, and getting feedback make us more likely to improve our fitness, health, and wellness. Add in accountability—yes, many of these trackers can post directly to social media—which is another proven way of sticking to your healthy lifestyle, and you can see why so many people are devotees. Below are some of our favorite options for a range of situations and preferences.

Best overall: Apple Watch Series 8

Jen McCaffery

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Specs

  • Battery life: 18 Hours
  • Display type: OLED touchscreen
  • GPS: Built-in GPS, plus GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, Beidou
  • Water resistance: Up to 164 feet
  • Compatibility: iOS
  • Size: 41mm, 45mm
  • Weight: 1.1 ounces (41mm), 1.3 ounces (45mm)

Pros

  • Beautiful display
  • Real-time updates
  • Crash detection and fall detection

Cons 

  • Expensive
  • Battery life not as long as advertised

Right out of the box, the Apple Watch Series 8 is almost ready to go. I assembled the watch with the included band and powered it up. The included magnetic fast charger works with a USB-C port. I wasn’t able to charge it with a wall adapter, but connected it to my MacBook Air laptop. From there, I connected to the WiFi and used the Apple Watch app to customize the display—a stunning Retina display that makes it a pleasure to look at my wrist and is easy to see, even in bright light. 

It’s the health tracking that truly sets the Series 8 apart. The watch works with thousands of apps, so I could easily record a run on Strava while listening to a podcast or Audible book on my iPhone. It tracked my average pace, heart rate, heart rate zone, and more in a display that was easy to see with a quick glance. Then, once I was done, the Apple Watch synced with the Apple Health app to track and evaluate my progress. 

For the first time, I got insight into my VO2 Max and where I compared with people in my age group. The Activity Tracker also tracks the calories I’ve burned, my steps, flights climbed, and walk steadiness, plus more granular metrics, like running stride length, ground contact time, and running power. Once an hour, the Watch notifies me it’s time to stand. 

The Apple Watch helps me track these metrics daily and over time, along with sleep. And I get notifications for texts, calls, and Slack messages. It can integrate into your life from a yoga flow to your workflow. One quibble is that the battery life is supposed to last up to 18 hours, but in my experience, it didn’t last that long, and after it died a few times mid-run, I made sure it was charged before heading out. 

But the reminders to complete my Activity rings help keep movement top of mind, even when I’m reluctant to lace up my sneakers for more miles. And the crash and fall detection features provide extra peace of mind. Having the Series 8 feels like having a health coach at my wrist, which, to my mind, is worth the investment. Here is a full review of the Apple Watch Series 8 that breaks down all the new features. We also have a guide to help you determine if the Apple Watch Ultra is worth the upgrade, and we acknowledge that the Apple Watch Series 9 is now an option, but this just means that the price on the more than still adequate Apple Watch Series 8 is that much more approachable.

Best sleep tracker: Fitbit Sense 2

Fitbit

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Specs

  • Battery life: 6 days
  • Display type: AMOLED touchscreen
  • GPS: Built-in GPS, GLONASS
  • Water resistance: 164 feet
  • Compatibility: Android, iOS
  • Size: 1.5 x 1.5 x 0.45 inches
  • Weight: 0.8 ounces

Pros

  • Lightweight and comfortable design
  • Lots of sensors for health data and sleep tracking
  • Bright, responsive touchscreen display
  • Accurate body temperature data

Cons

  • No third-party app support
  • No music support

The Fitbit Sense 2 is a highly capable fitness watch, but it shines with its sleep tracking. It automatically tracks your sleep, giving you insight into how long you sleep as well as time spent in light, deep, and REM sleep stages. It also shows how your sleep compares to others of the same age and sex. It also offers relaxing breathing sessions to help you wind down before bed. When it’s time to wake up, the Sense 2 can vibrate to wake you up when you are in the optimal sleep stage so you feel as refreshed as possible. 

Beyond sleep tracking, Fitbit built the Sense 2 with plenty of sensors for data collection. I can measure your heart rate, heart rate variability, skin temperature, breathing rate, blood oxygen, blood glucose, and more. And the built-in GPS means you can track your workouts with detailed distance and pace information. 

The app displays the data clearly and lets you see historical data and a 30-day average, too. It provides plenty of metrics to help you keep an eye on your fitness and health and is compatible with iOS and Android phones. You’ll need to pay to take advantage of some features, and unfortunately, there is no third-party app support for the Sense 2. But for detailed sleep tracking, this is a fantastic choice. 

Best for pure metrics: Whoop 4.0

Nick Hilden

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Specs

  • Battery life: 4 to 5 days
  • Display type: N/A
  • GPS: None
  • Water resistance: 32 feet for 2 hours (IP68)
  • Compatibility: Android, iOS
  • Size: 1.7 x 1.1 x 0.4 inches
  • Weight: 1 ounce

Pros

  • Very comfortable to wear
  • Can be worn in multiple ways with Whoop accessories and apparel
  • Lots of recovery and health data
  • No notifications or bright screen

Cons

  • Requires a pricey monthly subscription
  • No GPS

Most fitness trackers these days are also smartwatches. But all those notifications and the bright screen can be distracting, potentially taking away from you setting a personal best. If you are looking for a fitness tracker without all the fancy smartwatch features, the Whoop band is your best bet. This unique device is essentially a watch band with a bundle of sensors. There is no screen, so you can stay focused on the task at hand. 

The Whoop 4.0 is a minimal device in terms of looks and sensors. The company opted to stick with the absolute essentials: Blood oxygen, skin temperature, and heart rate sensors. These provide accurate data to help guide your recovery. The fitness tracker can automatically detect a workout, or you can manually start one via the app. It even tracks weights, reps, and sets when you are strength training to provide the impact that has on your body. It does not offer GPS, however, so you won’t be able to map out runs.

The main downside of Whoop is that it is a subscription-based product. Depending on your chosen plan, it will cost you about $20 a month. That comes with an Onyx band, but if you want one of the many other colors, it will cost you extra. Not everyone will love the lack of a screen, either. But you can buy clothing and accessories to wear your Whoop in positions other than your watch, which is very handy for certain types of activities. Whoop certainly is a unique way to gather data and keep track of your fitness and recovery.

Best for heart rate monitoring: Polar Ignite 3

Abby Ferguson

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Specs

  • Battery life: Up to 30 hours in training mode
  • Display type: AMOLED touchscreen
  • GPS: Built-in GPS, plus GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, Beidou
  • Water resistance: 98 feet
  • Compatibility: Android, iOS
  • Size: 1.7 x 1.7 x 0.4 inches
  • Weight: 1.2 ounces

Pros

  • Very slim and lightweight
  • Attractive design
  • Provides lots of workout suggestions and guides
  • Tracks sleep and other important health metrics

Cons

  • Notifications are occasionally delayed
  • Battery life isn’t great

Polar is well known for its highly accurate sensors and watches. There’s a reason many physiology and sports science labs rely on its products. The Polar Ignite 3 takes that technology and packs it into a tiny, wrist-based product. The heart rate monitor in the Ignite 3 uses 10 LEDs across multiple wavelengths and four light detectors to gather more accurate heart rate measurements from your wrist. I found it to be as accurate as a chest strap in most situations. 

Beyond heart rate, the Ignite 3 also offers many features to help you stay healthy and fit. It tracks your sleep, including nightly skin temperature, measures your VO2 Max, and provides lots of insights to help you manage your fitness and performance. It even suggests workouts if you want tips on what to do on a given day. Those suggestions include cardio, strength, and stretching, which is more than most watches will do. And it walks you through the workout in an easy-to-understand way. I particularly liked the stretching suggestions for loosening up after hard workouts. 

Even though the Ignite 3 is a highly capable fitness tracker and smartwatch, it’s extremely slim and minimal. It barely sticks up on my wrist, making it more comfortable to wear day in and day out. Unfortunately, the compact size meant a compromise in battery life. Polar promises 30 hours in training mode or 120 hours in watch mode, which lags behind the competition. Luckily, it charges quickly, so you can get back to keeping track of your steps sooner. 

Best for battery life: Garmin Vivofit 4

Garmin

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Specs

  • Battery life: Up to 7 days in smartwatch mode
  • Display type: OLED touchscreen
  • GPS: Connected GPS only
  • Water resistance: 164 feet
  • Compatibility: Android, iOS
  • Size: Small/medium: 0.7 x 0.4 x 8.54 inches, Large: 0.7 x 0.4 x 10 inches
  • Weight: Small/medium: 0.86 ounces, Large: 0.93 ounces

Pros

  • Slim, minimal design in four colors
  • Available in two sizes
  • Advanced health and fitness tracking abilities
  • Long battery life

Cons

  • Relies on your phone for GPS
  • Small screen limits data you can see

The Garmin Vivofit 4 is a true fitness tracker. It’s simple in design with a tiny build. This watch is available in two sizes and four colors with interchangeable bands, so you can pick something that fits you best. It is comfortable to wear all day and even at night, so you can even take advantage of its sleep-tracking abilities. 

Of course, the extra-long battery life comes with a few compromises. The primary downside is that it doesn’t offer built-in GPS (though Garmin makes plenty of multisport watches for that). Instead, if you want location information, you’ll need to keep your phone on you for connected GPS. But those who don’t want to be tied to a charger will appreciate this pared-back tracker.

The Vivofit 4 will track steps, distance, activities, and calories burned. It provides a personalized daily step goal and provides insight into your energy levels and recovery information so you can train smarter. The color display is customizable, and the Garmin Connect app adds functionality and helps you see your information. Plus, despite the budget-friendly price, it provides incident detection and the ability to instantly send messages and location information to emergency contacts, adding peace of mind when out on a run or bike ride.

Best with GPS: Garmin epix Pro

Abby Ferguson

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Specs

  • Battery life: Up to 10 days in smartwatch mode
  • Display type: AMOLED touchscreen
  • GPS: Built-in GPS, GLONASS, Galileo
  • Water resistance: 328 feet (10 ATM)
  • Compatibility: Android, iOS
  • Size: Available in 42mm, 47mm, or 51mm case sizes
  • Weight: 2.2 ounces (42mm)

Pros

  • Built-in LED flashlight is surprisingly handy
  • Advanced training tools and health measurements
  • Highly accurate data
  • Rugged and durable
  • Bright, attractive display

Cons

  • No solar charging
  • Expensive

The Garmin Epix Pro is a serious watch for those dedicated to their fitness. It measures just about every health and fitness metric you could want, including heart rate, blood oxygen, HRV, VO2 Max, training load, training effect, and so much more. As with most Garmin watches, the epix Pro gives you various fitness scores—such as Endurance Score, Hill Score, Body Battery, and more. These metrics help you keep an eye on when you may be overtraining and need to back off or when you should pick up the pace. 

This advanced fitness tracker suggests daily workouts and can track nearly an endless list of activities. It can even help you plan for specific races and help you navigate when you are on the course. The Up Ahead mode can show you checkpoints and aid stations, giving you peace of mind and helping you plan accordingly.

Garmin clearly built the epix Pro for the outdoors. It is rugged and durable, with lots of features to help you on adventures. The version linked here uses a scratch-resistant sapphire AMOLED display with a fiber-reinforced polymer case. It is tested to U.S. military standards for thermal, shock, and water resistance, so you’ll know it can handle whatever you throw at it. It comes in three different case sizes and multiple colors.

Additionally, the epix Pro offers terrain maps with relief shading and weather map overlays. I have relied on the weather maps on more than a few occasions to get back home before a storm hits. It also features an LED flashlight, which I have come to rely on in my day-to-day life far more than anticipated. Plus, the display of the watch is bright and vibrant, making it easy to see in the bright sun. Garmin also has plenty of unique and customizable watch faces so that you can personalize your watch quite a lot. 

The Garmin epix Pro is a highly advanced watch. As a result, it’s an expensive option. You can save a little by opting for the Pro Standard version instead of Pro Sapphire. Or, if you want all the robust Garmin health and fitness features for less, check out the Forerunner lineup. The Forerunner 955 Solar is a particularly good watch with impressive battery life. 

Best budget: Amazfit Band 7

Abby Ferguson

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Specs

  • Battery life: Up to 18 days
  • Display type: AMOLED touchscreen
  • GPS: Connected GPS only
  • Water resistance: 164 feet (5 ATM)
  • Compatibility: Android, iOS
  • Size: 1.84 x 0.95 x 0.48 inches
  • Weight: 0.96 ounces

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Very affordable
  • Long battery life
  • Accurate heart rate measurements

Cons

  • Only offers connected GPS
  • Finicky touchscreen

While many fitness trackers are on the pricey side, you don’t have to drop a fortune to get accurate fitness tracking capabilities. The Amazfit Band 7 is the best budget fitness tracker available thanks to its robust feature set, compact build, and sub-$50 price. 

The Band 7 is minimal in design, with a narrow rectangular AMOLED display. It’s large enough to see your important data without being too large, even on small wrists. There aren’t any buttons on the watch, so navigation is entirely based on touchscreen functionality. It’s plenty bright and colorful for bright days, and the information provided during workouts is nicely simplified so that you can quickly glance down and see what you need. 

Inside the band 7 is AMazfit’s ​​BioTracker 3.0 PPG biometric sensor. This is able to measure heart rate and blood oxygen levels. The watch can calculate VO2 Max and stress levels and track your sleep. I found these numbers to be as accurate as the more expensive watches I’ve used, including Garmin. Amazfit also provides lots of help text throughout the watch so that you can better understand what its metrics mean. 

The downside of the budget price is that it relies on tethered GPS, so you’ll need to have your phone on you if you want any GPS data from your activities. And even then, the GPS data isn’t as accurate as a multi-band GPS system. But the upside of this is that the battery life is seriously impressive for a budget watch. Amazfit promises up to 18 days with normal usage. In my testing, I was able to get 16 or so, which is pretty close. 

This fitness tracker won’t cut it for serious athletes wanting all the data, but for those who simply want something to encourage them to stay active, the Amazfit Band 7 is a great choice. To read more about this watch, you can check out our full review

What to consider when shopping for the best fitness trackers

It’s easy to get bewildered by all the features and functions available in today’s fitness trackers. But the best fitness tracker for you is the one that will effectively and efficiently monitor exactly what you want it to—maybe your heart rate or the quality of your sleep—and deliver the info in a way that works for you. But it’s also smart to keep in mind that too many functions, such as GPS or an energy-sapping display, can drain your tracker’s battery life. They may also be more than you’ll actually need, leaving you paying for features that you won’t use. 

Heart rate sensors

These days, just about every fitness tracker or watch comes built with a wrist-based heart rate sensor. The accuracy of these depends on the particular watch, as well as how you are wearing the watch. Depending on the activity you are participating in, it won’t be as accurate as a chest-based monitor. But technology has improved significantly in recent years, and most watches provide plenty of accurate data for all but the most serious athletes. 

Sleep tracking

When it comes to fitness, we tend to neglect recovery. Yet it is a key component of fitness and health. That’s partly why sleep monitoring has become a key feature of fitness trackers and smartwatches. Some argue that you should know whether you’ve had a good night’s sleep just based on how you feel in the morning. Trying to beat a sleep score every night, they say, only adds stress and makes it less likely you’ll sleep well.

However, if you’re trying different approaches to improve your sleep—a relaxing pillow spray, avoiding screens before bed, or winding down with a warm shower—a tracking app can help you figure out what works best for you. While sleep trackers in labs use brain activity to measure the different stages of sleep—light, deep, and REM sleep—fitness trackers tend to use a combination of movement and heart rate tracking to estimate your sleep cycles.

You have to notify some trackers that you’re going to bed in order to initiate sleep monitoring, which may not be ideal for you. Others do it automatically as long as you are wearing your device to bed. Keep in mind that if you want to wear your tracker to monitor your activity during the day and your sleep at night, you’ll need a device with a long battery life or a quick charging time so you never have to miss a moment, night or day.

Battery life

When it comes to electronics, particularly small yet powerful ones, battery life can be a major concern. Depending on how you want to use your fitness tracker, battery life might be key when choosing one.

Many of the most popular products blur the line between fitness trackers and smartwatches. They come with a huge number of functions, such as sending and receiving messages, storing music, and GPS tracking. But these bells and whistles can be a real drain on your battery. You might find yourself needing to fast charge your device while you’re in the shower or sacrificing sleep tracking so it can power up overnight.

That might be fine if you just want to keep track of the odd HIIT class. But if you hate being a slave to a charger or want to take your tracker on a camping expedition without access to power, it might be worth sacrificing some features for longer battery life. Or you may need to pay for a more expensive model in order to get the best of both worlds.

GPS & GNSS

GPS—or Global Positioning System—is a series of satellites that circle the Earth. If you have a GPS receiver, it can use the relative positioning of these satellites to tell you exactly where you are. It’s this sort of geolocation technology that is used to help your car company or food delivery service locate you and how the map app on your phone gives you directions.

When it comes to fitness trackers, GPS can be helpful in a number of ways. Using what it knows about your location and the time you were there, you can get an accurate idea of your pace when you’re running or hiking. It can also allow someone who’s not with you to track your progress or help you create a map of your route. Further, on some devices, with an additional app, GPS can be used to help direct you along a pre-programmed route.

Fitness trackers have various ways of capitalizing on GPS. Some may include their own built-in receivers, which means you don’t have to have your phone with you. Others use the GPS in your smartphone to help geolocate you, which is referred to as tethered GPS.

The quality of GPS in fitness trackers varies, too. Sometimes, it’s tricky to squeeze a high-quality receiver into a small band or watch, and if accurate GPS is really important to you—say you’re a competitive runner and need a highly accurate record of your distances and pace—a GPS running watch might be a better option for you. For the most accurate location data, you’ll want to look for multiple GNSS (Global Navigation Satelite System) options in a single tracker. 

Display size & features

How much information do you want to see on the screen of your fitness tracker? Do you want all your info there? Or would you rather have a single piece of data on screen—your step count, calories burned, or heart rate—knowing that you’ll have to scroll through to get the other data you want?

As with so many choices, it’s all about compromises. If you want a full-color, bright, and fully customizable touchscreen, you’re probably going to sacrifice battery life. And if you want loads of information in one place, you’ll need to opt for a large fitness tracker, which may be rather clunky on your wrist. On the other hand, if you opt for a more basic, smaller display, you won’t be able to see your information as easily. 

Whatever you opt for, it’s worth spending a bit of time getting to know your tracker’s screen and working out how you can customize it so that the functions and information you want most are easily and quickly accessible. As with your phone, you may find some apps or functions installed that you don’t need. If you know you’re never going to record a ballet class, for example, delete that option if you can. The less information you have on screen, the easier it will be to zone in on what you want.

It might also be worth considering a screen protector if you’re going for a smartwatch-style tracker. These can be really thin and unobtrusive, and the best don’t interfere with functionality, just protect against scratches, scrapes, and damage.

FAQs

Q: What is the best cheap fitness tracker?

The Amazfit Band 7 is one of the cheapest fitness trackers on the market, but there are other affordable options that cost just slightly more than the Band 7. You may sacrifice some features and quality when you choose a cheaper option, but they’ll still track the basics, like steps, heart rate, and fitness metrics.

Q: What are the best fitness tracker brands? 

Fitness trackers have an interesting heritage—closely related to sports watches and mobile phones—as well as being their own stand-alone tech. There are now many companies that create products in the fitness tracker realm, but some of the best are Fitbit, Garmin, and Apple. Fitbit was one of the first fitness trackers available, but the company has come a long way since then. In fact, Google bought Fitbit in 2019. It offers a range of trackers, from basic to advanced. 

Garmin is one of the leaders in the fitness tracker and advanced fitness watch market. Its roots lie in GPS, and that legacy has continued with its impressive lineup of highly accurate trackers. 
Apple is a name that just about everyone will recognize. Its Apple Watch helped bridge the gap between fitness watch and smartwatch, offering cellular connectivity with advanced health sensors. 

Q: Why use a fitness tracker?

Fitness watches can motivate users to stay on track with their fitness goals by providing real-time data and metrics that allow you to monitor progress and performance. As many of us are sedentary throughout the day, fitness trackers offer real-time alerts and reminders to keep you moving, even in small increments.

Q: Which fitness tracker is most accurate?

We all want a fitness watch that accurately measures our fitness data—after all, accurate metrics help us get a better grip on our health. The Garmin Vivofit 4 is among the most accurate trackers, along with Garmin’s other offerings, offering precise measurements for both everyday and fitness wear.

Final thoughts on the best fitness trackers

There’s no doubt that a fitness tracker can help you up your game when it comes to your workouts and that there are a host of different features and functions out there that can keep you on track, whether you’re a busy parent squeezing in a quick yoga class or a professional athlete trying to shave every last second off your time. The huge leaps and bounds in technology also mean that your fitness tracker can do double duty as a smartwatch, notifying you about everything from news headlines to your next meeting. The type of tracker you opt for will depend on your life, lifestyle, and what you want from it. But the choices are out there like never before.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best fitness trackers of 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best watch winders of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-watch-winders/ Fri, 03 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=447193
Best watch winders sliced header
Stan Horaczek

Keep your automatic watches charged and looking their best.

The post The best watch winders of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best watch winders sliced header
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best Overall Wolf Heritage Double Wolf Heritage Double
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The winder itself is able to accommodate watches of all sizes, but what really stands out are the winding programs.

Best affordable battery-powered JQueen Double Watch Winder JQueen Double Watch Winder
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A great option for the collector just starting who wants a handsome winder that will leave them plenty of cash to invest in new watches rather than cases.

Best budget Triple Tree Watch Winder Triple Tree Watch Winder
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The size is great for those who want to keep their watch stored on their desk or bedside table where space can be a premium.

Watch winders help keep automatic watches stay powered up. Automatic watches don’t have a battery. Rather, an internal mechanism helps turn motion into power for the watch. But this usually only powers the watch for about 24 to 48 hours. If you don’t wear the watch often enough, or leave it on your shelf saved up for a special occasion, the watch won’t get the motion it needs and will run out of power, meaning you’ll take it out only to find it dead. To prevent this, watch winders help keep your watch moving by using a small motor that mimics the motion of your wrist. Store your watch in the box, which often also makes a great display case, and it will move every so often to keep the watch ready to wear, displaying the correct time, at a moment’s notice. If you are a budding collector with a rotation of watches, a watch you only wear occasionally, or you just hate having to wind and reset your watch, here are some of the best watch winders to keep you ticking. 

How we chose the best watch winders

This is a relatively specialized market segment with tons of options ranging across a wide pricing spectrum. We started our search with trusted reliable brands that watch collectors generally trust. 

Since watch collections can vary from a single model to multiple options, we chose options that can accommodate various numbers of timepieces. We relied on a combination of personal experience, editorial reviews, user feedback, and feature comparisons to narrow down a list of dozens to these specific picks. Unlike some other consumer electronics segments, these devices don’t get revamped every year, so there’s little worry about your purchase going out of date quickly once you buy. 

The best watch winders: Reviews & Recommendations

With those important considerations out of the way, it’s time to get into our specific picks for best watch winders. While we’ve broken these down into categories, there’s always overlap between the products, so be sure to peruse the entire list before making a purchase. There may be more than one device that meets your needs.

Best overall: Wolf Heritage Double

WOLF

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Why it made the cut: Wolf is a reliable brand that makes great winders, and this is no exception. It’s perfect for two watches, even if they are vastly different sizes with vastly different program needs. 

Specs

  • Number of Watches: 2
  • Materials: Faux leather, tempered glass
  • Calibration Settings: 900 TBD, 3-direction clockwise, counterclockwise, and bi-directional
  • Power: Plug or 4 D batteries
  • Size: 12.75 x 7.75 x 8.75 inches

Pros 

  • Durable construction 

Cons

  • Exterior leather is faux, a surprise at this price
  • Large size isn’t great fit for all

Wolf is a favorite brand among many watch collectors and watch winder users for its reliable products and durable construction. We particularly like the durable materials in this build, including the faux leather exterior (though real leather would have been a nice touch), chrome clasps, and a tempered glass window so that you can see and display your watches while they wind. It’s a handsome winder worthy of display and thanks to the option of D battery power, you can display it anywhere without a cord poking out.

The winder itself is able to accommodate watches of all sizes, but what really stands out are the winding programs. The winder can do 900 TPD and also pre-programmed rotations phases that even include sleep and pause phases to prevent your watch from being overwound. The programs are easy to select thanks to the front knobs, and you can set the two watches separately.

Best value: Versa Automatic Single Watch Winder

Versa

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Why it made the cut: This simple option won’t take up a ton of room and will save you some cash to spend on more watches.

Specs

  • Number of Watches: 1
  • Materials: Plastic
  • Calibration Settings: 4 Turns Per Day 650-850-1050-1250, 3-direction clockwise, counterclockwise, and bi-directional. 
  • Power: Plug
  • Size: ‎5.75 x 5.75 x 5.75 inches;

Pros

  • Inexpensive but effective
  • Customizable settings
  • Fits large watches
  • Quiet dependable function

Cons

  • Plastic exterior construction
  • Large for only accommodating a single watch
  • Settings, while easy to adjust, are not robust enough for all watch brands. 

This watch winder is a favorite of many for its pleasant design, simple use, and perhaps most of all, affordable price. 

Even with all of this in mind, the winder is reliable thanks to the Japanese Mabuchi motor that has a gearbox capable of 12 settings in 350, 650, 850, and 1050, as well as clockwise, counterclockwise, and bidirectional winding. This way you can pick the number and direction that best suits your watch. 

One of the best features of this winder is just how quiet it is during operation. You can hardly hear it function as it winds your watch, which makes it a great option for those in small quarters who might need the watch winder on a bedside table. 

The design itself is modern, though the plastic construction might not match every watch owner’s aesthetic, and can look cheap, so it’s not the best for displaying a prestige piece. It is relatively large for a single watch winder, but with this size comes the ability to accommodate large and oversized watches, even up to 70mm wide and 14 mm thick.

Best box: Wolf Roadster Triple

WOLF

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Why it made the cut: Enough space for a large or growing collection and easy, quiet operation that will make you smile as much as wearing your favorite watch. 

Specs

  • Number of Watches: 3
  • Programs: 300 to 1800 TPD, 3-direction clockwise, counterclockwise and bi-directional
  • Power: Plug or 4 D batteries
  • Size: 18 x 8  x 9 inches

Pros 

  • Leather exterior and premium finishes
  • Operates quietly
  • Top storage compartment for other accessories 

Cons

  • Premium price for a premium product
  • Wood veneer may not match all home styles

While this winder can wind up to three watches, it also has storage for five additional watches. This is great if you have battery-powered watches as well or prefer to cycle your automatic watches through the winter. It’s great for the collector with many watches or the collector who is just starting to add automatic watches to a primarily battery-powered collection

Even with three winders, the Wolf Heritage is impressively quiet. Despite this, it is powerful enough to wind even the heaviest and largest watches. 

The programs are easy to customize to meet the exact needs of your watches and can be adjusted between 300 and 1,200 TPD or doubled if you make the winder bi-directional. A power reserve function will let your watch cycle between winding, and releasing energy so it does not overwind. 

Many will like the handsome design with rich wood veneer and leather exterior, though we would have expected genuine rather than faux leather at this price point. It is a premium look at a premium price. 

Best space-saving: Heiden Monaco Double Watch Winder

Heiden

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Why it made the cut: The Heiden Monaco Double Watch Winder offers a wide range of independently controlled TPD rates in a stylish upright form factor.

Specs

  • Number of Watches: Two
  • Materials: Faux leather, glass
  • Calibration Settings: 650, 950, 1,250, and 1,850 TPD (turns per day), clockwise, counterclockwise, and bi-directional
  • Power: Plug or two D batteries
  • Size: 7.13 inches L x 5 inches W x 13 inches H

Pros

  • Stores and winds two watches in an upright space-saving design
  • Can charge each watch at different speeds
  • Extremely quiet Mabuchi motor

Cons

  • Pillow design requires handling watch directly for removal

If you’re looking for a watch winder that saves surface area in your closet or on your dresser, the Heiden Monaco Double Watch Winder is a great space-saving option that also happens to be a great value. This stitched faux-leather-bound watch winder can store two automatic watches in a vertical configuration, each with its own independently controlled turn-per-day rate. Like many of the best watch winders, the Heiden Monaco also uses a Japanese Mabuchi motor for incredibly quiet and sleep-friendly operation. Some reviewers took issue with this model’s pillow design, which lacks the traditional removable cuffs of other designs and requires users to directly handle their watch upon removal and placement. If you’re willing to look past that, the Heiden Monaco Double Watch Winder is incredibly reliable and capable for its price tag.

Best affordable battery-powered: JQueen Double Watch Winder

JQUEEN

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Why it made the cut: An affordable two-watch option with a classic design, and reliable, though simple, function. 

Specs:

  • Number of Watches: 2
  • Materials: acrylic glass, wood, copper fittings
  • Programs: Clockwise, clockwise, 2 bi-directional
  • Power: Plug or 2 AA batteries
  • Size: 7 x 7 x 7.8 inches

Pros 

  • Available in a variety of finishes
  • Large display window
  • Affordable price
  • 18-month warranty

Cons

  • Lacks quantitative turn per day setting
  • Can look cheap when compared to other more expensive winders

This winder is powered by a Japanese Mabuchi motor, which operates supremely quietly. While not silent, it’s impressively unobtrusive for its price point. Similarly, the construction is impressive for less than $100. This JQueen is made by hand with acrylic glass, real wood, high-quality lacquer, and smooth copper components. It’s a handsome design that looks great with most watches, though you may notice that affordability when it is compared to more expensive and elegant cases. 

Some may not like that the winder doesn’t have quantitative TPD settings. Still, the four programs are easy to choose from with a simple knob and include clockwise, counterclockwise, and two different time periods for bidirectional. 

It’s a great option for the collector just starting their collection who wants a handsome winder that will leave them plenty of cash to invest in new watches rather than their cases.

Best for large collections: Aevitas Watch Winder

Aevitas

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Why it made the cut: A premium option for the premium collector. This winter works well for large collections and collectors with high demands for their accessories. 

Specs

  • Number of Watches: 6
  • Materials: Carbon fiber finish
  • Programs: 650, 750, 850, 1000, or 1950 TPD, clockwise, counterclockwise, bidirectional
  • Power: Plug
  • Size: 13.1 x 7.5 x 12.2 inches

Pros 

  • Large capacity
  • Neat “fast” design
  • Delivered in gift box

Cons

  • No battery-powered option
  • Price is for a premium product
  • Only works for large collections

This winder is best for the collector with a robust collection, as it has room to wind up to six watches, a lot for most when you consider we only have two arms. But if you have different types of watches with different TPD needs.

The carbon fiber design is sleek and modern and has a fun, fast look, but might not match the classical design of some watches, or collectors. Rather than a knob to select the programs, this winder has a touchscreen. While it is convenient and easy to operate, the glow of the screen adds to the modern aesthetic that might not match your style. 

The winder also has a large glass front, which makes it great for displaying and protecting your watches, and the storage compartment on top works great for storing your other accessories like cufflinks. 

Best budget: Triple Tree Watch Winder

TRIPLE TREE

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Why it made the cut: The Triple Tree is an affordable, consistent, and compact option that punches above its weight class when it comes to performance and quality. 

Specs

  • Number of Watches: 1
  • Materials: Wood and faux leather
  • Programs: Clockwise, counterclockwise, bi-directional, non-intermittent bi-directional 
  • Power: Plug or 2 AA batteries
  • Size: 5.3 x 5.3 x 6.1Inches

Pros 

  • Solid wood construction with a pleasant aesthetic
  • Affordable price for solid operation
  • Small size

Cons

  • Textured leather not for everyone
  • Branding on front of case

For an affordable device, this Triple Tree works incredibly well and has earned itself many loyal customers. For the single watch owner, it is a great and impressively compact option. The size is great for those who want to keep their watch stored on their desk or bedside table where space can be a premium. 

The Japanese motor works well and is impressively quiet. The motor comes with four winding programs, which may be limiting to some watch owners who want more precise control over TPD rather than just direction and timing. The settings are easy to use thanks to a simple control knob. While setting 3 and 4 are both bi-directional, setting 4 has longer wind periods that can fully wind your watch in 3 hours.

The wood construction makes the box feel solid, though the textured leather exterior may not match all styles and aesthetics. The acrylic window gives a good view of your watch, and we liked the velvet interior. The pillow makes it easy to fit your watch, regardless of size. 

Things to consider when shopping for the best watch winders

Before we dig into the specific picks on this list, we’ll outline a few common features and terms that will help you shop smarter no matter which model you choose. 

Do I need a watch winder? 

If your watch has a battery, you don’t need a watch winder, though you may appreciate its elegant display. Unless you wear your automatic watch every day, a winder is a great choice because it ensures that your timepiece will be ticking whenever you’re ready to wear it.

What size do I need? 

The best watch winders come in a variety of sizes to accommodate the number of watches you have. Do you need a single, double, or multi-watch winder? It’s alright to buy a watch winder with more winders than watches in your growing collection, but this will likely affect your price. Pay attention to the size of the watch that will fit inside, usually measured by the size of the watch case width and thickness in mm.

How much am I willing to spend? 

Watch winders, like watches, come in a wide variety of price points. Do you need a simple machine to keep in your closet, or are you looking for a beautiful and impressive machine to show your guests?

Is it right for my watch? 

Check your watch’s manual to see what it needs to get power. Some watches only capture energy when they turn clockwise or counterclockwise, and some watches need different amounts of turns per day (TPD) to keep them wound, but not overwound. A programmable watch winder will help you get exactly what you need, though more robust and customizable programs often come at a higher price. 

FAQs

Q: How much does a watch Winder cost? 

Like the watches you put in them, watch winders can vary greatly in cost. The material the watch winder is made from, level of programming, and even just the brand name can greatly affect the cost of a watch winder. Many options can be found under $100 but for those with a bigger, or unlimited, budget it is possible to spend well into the thousands of dollars.

Q: Can I overcharge an automatic watch? 

Yes, many of the best watch winders have pause or stop functions to keep your watch from being overwound. Overwinding a watch can put excess, and constant, pressure on your main spring that powers the watch, which will eventually damage it. 

Q: How long should I leave my watch on a watch winder? 

Check your watch manual for the correct TPD and if your watch can only be on a watch winder for a certain amount of time. Many watches have programs that pause so that you can leave your watch on the winder long term.

Final thoughts on the best watch winders

Whether you’re just getting into watches or expanding your collection, the best watch winders will keep your timepiece ticking and ready to head out into the world at a moment’s notice. If you’re expanding your collection from watches under $500 into high-end watches, it’s worth spending a little extra for a reliable, customizable model that will keep your watch’s internals safe and working perfectly for years to come.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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The best watches under $500 of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-watches-under-500/ Tue, 24 May 2022 15:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=445108
The best watches under $500
Stan Horaczek

From automatic to digital, these timepieces won’t cost a fortune.

The post The best watches under $500 of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best watches under $500
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall Seiko Prospex Samurai is the best watch under $500. Seiko Prospex Samurai
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Handsome, with accurate timekeeping and excellent water resistance, it’s sharp enough to wear daily.

Best budget Timex Unisex Weekender is the best budget watch under $500. Timex Unisex Weekender
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With its nylon band and large numbered dial, this timepiece resembles the classic military field watch and has a surprising amount of features.

Best digital G-Shock GWM5610 is the best digital watch under $500. G-Shock GWM5610
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A tank built to withstand heavy impact from the dings of daily wear and up to 200 meters of water resistance.

Watches under $500 should have a baseline function of telling time. After that, the bells and whistles are just bonuses, or, technically speaking, complications. When considering the plethora of choices you can find in a watch—be it mechanical or quartz, analog or digital, field or diver—things get a little bogged down in spec-reading over features. Affordable watches are no less useful than expensive ones because, well, even the best watches under half a grand perform the same task as a pricey one. You don’t need to shell out thousands of dollars to add an accessory to your wrist for styling purposes or simple timekeeping. These are the best watches under $500 for casual fans and collectors alike.

How we chose the best watches under $500

When finding the best watches under $500, we used a combination of personal experience, hands-on testing, past recommendations, and online research to narrow down what’s worth wearing. We compared specs like crystal quality (the glass dome that goes over a dial), water resistance, brand names, and band types to discover what timepieces are best for most people. We also consulted professionals and collectors, combed through hundreds of critical reviews and consumer impressions, and kept an eye on the most frequently cited value-oriented watches. We narrowed down our picks with the budget, accessibility, color variety, size, band and crystal quality, and water resistance in mind. One note: These aren’t smartwatches (if you want that, check out our thoughts on the Apple Watch 8 or some of our favorite hiking watches), but they are smartly selected for those who want a timeless timepiece.

The best watches under $500: Reviews & Recommendations

With some of the key terms defined, it’s time to dive into our picks. While we’ve chosen models for specific categories, watches are highly subjective, and there’s a lot of overlap here. Be sure to check out the entire list of best watches under $500 before committing to one model. 

Best overall: Seiko Prospex Samurai 

Seiko

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Specs

  • Case diameter: 44mm
  • Weight: 7 ounces
  • Movement: Manual and automatic
  • Materials: Stainless steel
  • Water resistance: 660 feet

Pros

  • Casual enough for daily wear
  • Stainless steel
  • Attractive face

Cons

  • Chapter ring can appear slightly misaligned
  • Band feels cheap

The Seiko Prospex Samurai is consistently cited as a top contender for sub-$500 watches, and we have to agree. A sturdy diver that doubles as a casual watch, the Seiko Prospex Samurai has a stainless steel case and band that ensures durability and protection against water and minor scuffing. Though simple in design, its face is gorgeous and can match any occasion or outfit you pair with it. Plus, its date window and easy-to-read face make it a solid everyday watch for work and weekends alike.

This Seiko comes from the brand’s series nicknamed Samurai, due to its hands resembling a samurai sword, and is a Prospex, or “Professional Specifications,” variant initially introduced in 2017. While we believe the black and white colorway is the most versatile, this timepiece also comes in other hues, like blue and green, so grab one that suits your mood. Its downside is one that’s notorious with Seiko’s value watches: misalignments. Some buyers report a slightly misaligned date window and chapter ring, so beware of an off-centered dial.

Most sustainable: NIXON Light-Wave A1322

Billy Cadden

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Specs

  • Case diameter: 37mm
  • Weight: Not provided
  • Movement: Epson solar-powered quartz movement
  • Materials: Plastic, stainless steel, quartz
  • Water resistance: 328 feet

Pros

  • Water-resistant
  • Solar-powered for battery-free operation
  • Band made of recycled ocean plastic

Cons

  • Takes a while to charge if left indoors
  • Watch interface is confusing

The NIXON Light-Wave A1322-100m is a stylish mariner’s watch that puts its oceanic theme right up at the bow. With an attractive band made of recycled ocean plastic, paired with a battery-free design that capitalizes on solar power, this watch will appeal to ocean advocates and those interested in green product design.

The NIXON Light-Wave comes in seven colorways, with a range of band designs and hues. With so many available colors, this watch is easy to style with lots of different aesthetics and will work well with sporty outfits, as well as polished office wear. In some ways, the NIXON may be more married to its aesthetics than its function, as the uniform minute-hands and the double-sided second-hand make it difficult to tell precisely what time it is. Still, it achieves its aesthetic aims—this is a good-looking watch—and dignifies itself with its strong green-focused design.

Best hybrid: Withings ScanWatch

Withings

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Specs

  • Case diameter: 42mm
  • Weight: 2.9 ounces
  • Movement: Automatic
  • Materials: Sapphire glass, stainless steel, silicone band
  • Water resistance: 164 feet

Pros

  • Plenty of features
  • Water-resistant
  • Sleek styling 

Cons

  • Relies on your phone’s GPS

Hybrid smartwatches offer a unique set of features. They look like classic analog watches with physical watch hands but also provide smartwatch capabilities. The Withings ScanWatch is one of our favorite hybrid options, in part because of its large feature set. It provides an extensive list of health monitoring, including heart rate details, sleep tracking, and oxygen saturation level measurements. It also features an altimeter and dedicated workout metrics such as VO2 Max. 

The Withings ScanWatch is sleek and modern looking, so despite all its fitness tracking capabilities, it will blend in seamlessly with your daily attire. It is waterproof to 164 feet, so you can even get your swim workouts in with this waterproof watch. And it promises a battery life of up to 30 days. It offers full smartwatch functionality, providing your phone’s notifications right on your wrist. You will need to keep your phone on you to take advantage of GPS tracking while working out, but for the price, this watch still has a lot to offer. 

Best automatic: Seiko 5 SNZG09K1

Seiko

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Specs

  • Case diameter: 45mm
  • Weight: 2.82 ounces
  • Movement: Automatic
  • Materials: Canvas, stainless steel, Hardlex
  • Water resistance: 328 feet

Pros

  • Large size for a field watch
  • Bold, easy-to-read dial
  • 48-hour power reserve

Cons

  • May be too big for those with smaller wrists
  • May not provide accurate timekeeping

Our pick for the best automatic watch under $500 is also the best-looking field watch we’ve found: the Seiko 5 SNZG09K1. This attractive timepiece is slightly larger than most military-styled field watches with a case size of 45mm, compared to the industry standard 38mm to 44mm, making it a much bolder watch built for sport and casual use. The large dial is clear and easily digestible, especially its day and date function, and its secondhand wields a bright red pointer for easy tracking. With 100m water resistance, this timepiece can freely withstand rain and occasional immersion if needed.

As far as self-winding automatic watches are concerned, this one’s got efficiency. The Seiko 5 SNZG09K1 has a 48-hour power reserve, which means you can take it off, and it’ll run for up to two days before it needs to wind up again. And, of course, like all automatic watches, no batteries are required. Those who have smaller wrists may want to try the Seiko 5 SNK805 for a better fit.

Best GPS: Garmin Instinct 2S Solar

Abby Ferguson

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Specs

  • Case diameter: 40mm
  • Weight: 1.52 ounces
  • Movement: Not applicable (digital)
  • Materials: Fiber-reinforced polymer, Power Glass
  • Water resistance: 328 feet

Pros

  • Rugged and durable build
  • Solar charging prolongs battery life
  • Extensive health and fitness tracking features

Cons

  • Detailed maps don’t show up very well

Garmin’s Instinct 2S Solar is a watch built for adventure and outdoor pursuits. It is a rugged watch with a rather old-school design, including a monochrome memory-in-pixel display. But, the guts (and surface) of the watch are far from old-school. It is topped off with Garmin’s Power Glass, which enables solar charging, lengthening the already impressive battery life when it gets enough sun. In smartwatch mode, it can get up to 51 days if you are in the bright sun for three hours per day. 

The Instinct 2S connects to three Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)—GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo—for excellent accuracy. You can even use it to navigate if you need some help getting back from a hike. The watch comes with an extensive list of trackable activities and provides lots of health and fitness metrics, making it an ideal training companion. 

The 2S is the smallest version of the Instinct 2, offering a 40mm case size that’s ideal for smaller wrists. Should you want something larger, the Instinct 2 Solar provides a bigger 45mm case size. And if you want to save $100 from either size, you can skip the solar charging. 

Best gift: Citizen Death Star 2 Eco-Drive

Citizen

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Why it made the cut: The Citizen Death Star 2 is fully solar-powered and can go from business to casual without missing a beat.

Specs

  • Case Diameter: 41mm
  • Weight: Not provided
  • Movement: Japanese quartz
  • Materials: Stainless steel
  • Water Resistance: 328 feet

Pros

  • Solar-powered design charges using ambient light
  • Glow-in-the-dark 3D-style face
  • Stylish and waterproof black stainless steel case

Cons

  • May need direct sunlight for initial charge

If you’re looking for a watch that’s fun to wear but subtle and stylish enough to bring anywhere, the Citizen Death Star 2 is a unique option to please any Star Wars fan. Its two-tone dial features a minimalist graphic of the Death Star topped with lightsaber-inspired hands, an X-wing, and 12 and 6 markers based on the film’s iconic opening credits. In dark environments, nearly every white element of the watch face glows in the dark, adding a subtle 3D effect. Like many of Citizen’s best watches, the Death Star 2 is also waterproof to a depth of 328 feet and is charged up using ambient light, making it a great low-maintenance choice for active people. For best results, the Citizen Death Star 2 may need to be charged in direct sunlight when it’s first used or after extended periods in the dark, but this shouldn’t be a big issue if worn frequently.

Best for diving: Orient Mako II

Orient

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Specs

  • Case diameter: 41.5mm
  • Weight: Not provided
  • Movement: Automatic
  • Materials: Stainless steel
  • Water resistance: 660 feet

Pros

  • 200m water-resistance
  • 120-click unidirectional bezel
  • Classic style

Cons

  • Must be hand-wound
  • Crown can be tough to wind

Ask any serious watch collector, and they’ll agree: Orient’s Mako II is the quintessential diver. Considered a classic by many, this stylish diving watch presents a reasonably sized timepiece with unique details that make it more attractive. This diver offers up to 200 meters of water resistance, which means you can take it into the shower or a hot tub without worry. Of course, that also means you can take it underwater for a dive. In the dark, it has a powerful lume that glows the hands and numerals of the dial, as well as an accent at the 12-o-clock on the outer bezel. An added day-and-date function makes this watch suited for daily wear.

Although it’s automatic, the Orient Mako II needs manual winding, with its movement clocking in at around 4+ to 6+ a day. It also features second hacking, so you can manually adjust the secondhand for precision timekeeping. Its polished and brushed stainless steel band will look sharp and handle any water tossed its way.

Best digital: G-Shock GWM5610

Casio

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Specs

  • Case size: 46.7 × 43.2 × 12.7mm
  • Weight: 1.8 ounces
  • Movement: Not applicable (digital)
  • Materials: Resin
  • Water resistance: 660 feet

Pros

  • Impact- and water-resistant
  • Atomic (radio-controlled) timekeeping
  • Clear display with backlight
  • Solar powered

Cons

  • Different colorways get pricey

The best digital watch under $500 is also an upgrade to the most durable. The GWM5610, an update to the classic DW5600, is a tank built to withstand heavy impact from the dings of daily wear and up to 200 meters of water resistance. It’s equipped with five daily alarms, a backlight, a countdown timer, a stopwatch, and an auto-calendar, which means that once set, you no longer have to tweak it to account for leap years or shorter months. Unique to the GWM5610 is its atomic timekeeping, which uses radio signals to auto-synchronize the time at midnight. Its Tough Solar can power this watch for up to a whopping 18 months without exposure to light.

The best part about the GWM5610 is its uncluttered display, which, unlike other G-Shock watches, makes reading the time and date a cinch. That display is made of mineral, which is extremely tough to scratch. Its 43mm case width makes it a smart digital option, and paired with its durability, it’ll warrant daily wear.

Best for budget adventures: Amazfit T-Rex 2

Abby Ferguson

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Specs

  • Case diameter: 47mm
  • Weight: 2.3 ounces
  • Movement: Not applicable (digital)
  • Materials: Polymer alloy, silicone band
  • Water resistance: 328 feet

Pros

  • Rugged build
  • Affordable
  • Advanced fitness and health tracking

Cons

  • Very large size doesn’t work well on small wrists

The Amazfit T-Rex 2 is a fantastic budget option that still provides plenty of advanced features. This smartwatch offers dual-band positioning and support for six satellite positioning systems, as well as a built-in compass and barometric altimeter. You can import your own routes and use the watch to navigate your adventures. And it offers an extensive list of training features, including the ability to detect 15 types of strength training exercises and automatically count reps for you.

The T-Rex 2 is fitted with a 1.39-inch HD AMOLED always-on display that is easily visible outside. It’s a bulky watch, which isn’t great for those of us with small wrists, but it passed 15 military-standard tests, meaning it’s able to withstand extreme environments and temperatures. And it promises a battery life of up to 24 days with normal usage so that it will last even on longer trips.

Best field watch: Citizen Chandler Eco-Drive

Citizen

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Specs

  • Case diameter: 37mm
  • Weight: 7.2 ounces
  • Movement: Japanese quartz
  • Materials: Stainless steel, nylon
  • Water resistance: 328 feet

Pros

  • Clear, large dial
  • Solid lume on hands and hour marks
  • Excellent movement and battery

Cons

  • Grommets on band hinder buckle

With its rugged appeal, the Citizen Chandler Chronograph is a simple watch with a large display that makes it distraction-free, and a bright lux for easy reading at night. It’s equipped with two push buttons that start and stop its chronograph feature, while its subdials at 10- and 6-o-clock keep track of its passing seconds and minutes (its 2-o-clock sundial presents the military time).

This watch’s nylon strap is built tough to prevent ripping, though its grommets are somewhat large, which hinders adjusting its buckle. Because it’s solar-powered, the Citizen Chandler Chronograph never needs a battery change, and its power reserve keeps it ticking for 150 days without light exposure.

Its water resistance, while not as high as other picks on this list, provides ample protection in the rain and in moist conditions, which also makes it suitable for hikes and unpredictable weekends. Available in green and blue, this timepiece lends an outdoorsy look to any ensemble.

Want an even more luxe, but still not luxury-priced option? Check out the Ridge Field Watch, which features a Grade 2 titanium case (30 percent lighter than stainless steel) and high-clarity, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal for a lightweight, scratch- and corrosion-resistant build. In addition, it is self-winding, with a 42-hour battery reserve, and its water resistance is rated 200m—meaning it will be reliable and legible any, well, time you need it.

Best budget: Timex Unisex Weekender

Timex

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Specs

  • Case diameter: 38mm
  • Weight: 1.6 ounces
  • Movement: Quartz
  • Materials: Brass, nylon
  • Water resistance: 100 feet

Pros

  • Backlight
  • Versatile and lightweight
  • Plenty of color options

Cons

  • Not built for water immersion
  • Loud ticking

The Timex Weekender may be the perfect candidate for an entry-level watch that won’t break the bank. Resembling the classic military field watch with its nylon band and large numbered dial, this timepiece has a surprising amount of features that make it a solid value pick. It has a backlight that illuminates the entire dial with a cool blue hue to help you read it in the dark. It’s unisex-appropriate at 38mm wide, and its bands come in a variety of colors for styling. Furthermore, those bands can also be switched out, as the back of the watch features a slip-thru design that lets you slide a new strap in place without the use of tools.

Here’s a solid timepiece that you can toss on without having to worry about feeling its presence due to its lightweight. It has its cons, though. For one, owners frequently say that the Timex Weekender has a pretty loud tick to it. It’s also not suited for much water activity, with its resistance at 30m, so you may need to take it off if you get caught in the rain or need to wash dishes.

Things to consider before buying the best watches under $500

A watch can offer many features, also known as complications, that may boost its value, appeal, and usefulness. But complications aside, there are a number of things to keep in mind when shopping for a new watch under $500.

Movement

Think of the movement of a watch as its engine, or the way it gets its power. Three types of movements exist for a watch: mechanical, automatic, and quartz.

Mechanical is the oldest type of watch movement, and it requires periodic hand-winding of a spring to maintain its power. An automatic movement is technically mechanical, but it self-winds through the wearer’s natural wrist motion. Quartz replaces the mechanical workings of a watch with a crystal and battery, which will need replacing every few years, depending on the watch’s specific functions. It must be noted that the movement of a quartz watch provides the most accurate timekeeping. 

Brand

Like a television set or digital camera, a watch’s brand is usually an indicator of its quality. Names like Rolex, Patek Philippe, Omega, and Roger Dubuis are that of luxury and skew higher in price due to their intricate details and dependable movements. For this list, we’ve compiled more budget-friendly, though reliable brands popular with collectors and retailers today: Orient, Seiko, G-Shock, Citizen, and Timex. Though not on this list, value-oriented brands Bulova, Hamilton, Dan Henry, and Tissot are also known for quality timepieces.

Band

It’s important to be mindful of a watch’s band, or strap, when purchasing a new timepiece. Bands made with fiber-like nylon are usually built for a rugged aesthetic, often found in field watches, and are tough to rip and tear. Stainless steel bands are made of metal and provide durability against the elements, including rust resistance. These are often with a finish that leaves the band looking polished. To adjust a stainless steel band, you’ll have to use tools to remove its links.

Water resistance

Even if you’re not a diver, a watch’s water resistance is a vital piece of information that can tell you what occasion it can be worn. A watch with no or low water resistance will cause corrosion and damage its inner workings. A timepiece that can handle minor splashes, steam, and light rain is one that offers roughly 50 meters of water resistance. One hundred meters of water resistance can handle the above, plus the pressure of swimming. The higher the meter number, the better it can handle pressure underwater. For a watch used daily, we recommend aiming for a piece with at least 100 meters of resistance for durability.

FAQs

Q: Which strap material is best for a watch?

What strap material is best varies wildly between people. It truly depends on personal preference and how you use the watch. For example, you won’t want a metal watch band for exercise use, while a silicone band may not blend into your work attire as well. Knowing how you will be using your watch and what is most comfortable on your wrist will help you identify the best watch strap material. 

Q: What is the biggest difference between a cheap watch and an expensive one?

The biggest difference between a cheap watch and an expensive one is typically features. A cheap watch will tell you the time but likely nothing more, depending on how cheap it is. An expensive watch may offer smartwatch capabilities, fitness tracking, or other unique functionality. Expensive watches are also typically made from higher-end materials such as durable Sapphire glass on the face or utilize gold in the case and band.

Q: Which brand is best for watches under $500?

Which brand is best for watches under $500 depends, in large part, on what type of watch you are looking for. If you want a fashion watch, brands like Citizen or Seiko make fantastic options that are affordable and stylish. If you are looking for a fitness watch, Amazfit makes many advanced options under $500, or you can find entry-level models from the likes of Garmin under that price point as well.

Q: Can cheap watches be good?

Cheap watches can be very good. There are plenty of very impressive watches that don’t break the bank. Of course, it’s all a matter of what you are looking for in a watch, but there are many options that offer extensive features and functionality at affordable prices. 

Final thoughts on the best watches under $500

The best watches under $500 prove you don’t have to sacrifice an entire paycheck for comfort and quality. When it comes to a striking timepiece that’s reliable, water-resistant, and casual enough for daily wear, the Seiko Prospex Samurai proves it can hold a mantle to even the most extravagant of watches. Its simple design is easy-to-read and will match any outfit you can throw at it. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best watches under $500 of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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It’s time to save $200 on Garmin’s best smartwatch at Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/garmin-sport-smartwatch-amazon-deal/ Tue, 12 Sep 2023 16:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=569700
A Garmin watch on a pink and red background
Amanda Reed

Garmin's throwing a birthday party, and you're invited. The $200 in adventure watch savings is part of the goodie bag.

The post It’s time to save $200 on Garmin’s best smartwatch at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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A Garmin watch on a pink and red background
Amanda Reed

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September means it’s new iPhone and Apple Watch time. However, not every Apple Watch model is rugged enough for adventuring, and the activity-minded Apple Watch Ultra sports a hefty price tag. And those products may not have the aesthetic or depth of multisport functionality you want. Thankfully, a different watch company has something to announce in September: Garmin celebrates its 34th birthday with up to $200 in savings on its fitness watches at Amazon.

Garmin epix Gen 2 $689.95 (Was $899.99)

Tony Ware

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The Garmin epix (Gen. 2) is one of our favorite Garmin watches thanks to its AMOLED screen that shines through on even the brightest of lakeside sunny days. You can get from 42 hours to 16 days of battery power depending on your settings, and more than 30 built-in sports apps mean you get golf course maps and ski resort charts right from your wrist. 24/7 health monitoring lets you track oxygen saturation, heart rate, respiration, and more, and you can even use it to pay for a post-hike beverage with Garmin Pay contactless payments built-in. Talk about smart and sporty.

Samsung also has its wearables on sale on its website and at Amazon. We’re eyeing this Galaxy Watch 5, which lets you leave your phone behind and still take calls, send texts, and play music.

Here are more smartwatch deals we’ve mapped out:

The post It’s time to save $200 on Garmin’s best smartwatch at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best neck fans in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-neck-fans/ Tue, 15 Aug 2023 21:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=562654
The best neck fans provide welcome relief while going easy on your wallet.

Stay cool when the mercury is soaring with the help of these easy-to-wear devices.

The post The best neck fans in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best neck fans provide welcome relief while going easy on your wallet.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall Green neck fan on a counter. JisuLife Bladeless Neck Cooler
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This lightweight fan can last up to 16 hours on a single charge.

Best for cooling Torras' Coolify Air Conditioner and Fan is the best neck fan for cooling. Torras Coolify Portable Air Conditioner Neck Fan
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This air conditioner and neck fan in one features a powerful motor.

Best budget Comlife makes the best neck fan at a budget-friendly price. Comlife Portable Beck Fan
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This wallet-friendly model includes two fans for extra cooling.

Neck fans have already racked up millions of searches on TikTok because they’re cool. Or at least they’re cooling. These wearable fans provide a steady breeze exactly where you need it: right next to your face. They’re ideal for walks in the heat or keeping cool in the office, cost a fraction of bigger fans, and can be a stylish accessory. Here are some tips on what to look for before purchasing and our recommendations for the best neck fans.

How we chose the best neck fans

In the face of increasing heat, we’re on the lookout for ways to stay cool that don’t contribute to global warming. We looked to brands that are using the latest technology to provide relief in a package that’s lightweight and easy to use. In addition, we searched for models that would work for different uses. We considered the design, noise level, and time each charge lasted.  Finally, we included fans at a variety of price points.

The best neck fans: Reviews & Recommendations

Neck fans provide welcome relief from scorching sidewalks and on humid hikes, all while keeping your hands free. The best fans for your neck are lightweight, provide several levels of cooling breezes, and last at least 5 hours on a single charge. Here are our favorite options to help you chill.

Best overall: JisuLife Bladeless Neck Cooler

Jen McCaffery

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Specs

  • Type: Bladeless 
  • Weight: 9.1 ounces
  • Battery: 4,000 mAh
  • Battery life: Up to 16 hours

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Stellar battery life
  • Available in five colors

Cons

  • Wayward strands of hair may get caught

The highly rated JisuLife Bladeless Neck Cooler is ready to go right from the box. Just connect the included USB-C cord and charge the included lithium-ion battery for up to 16 hours of use. Impressive! This bladeless fan is lightweight and felt good around my neck. This 360-degree fan features 78 vents and three speeds, providing a steady, refreshing breeze to the underside of my face without blowing my hair all over the place. This JisuLife fan is also reasonably quiet, though louder at Level 3—the highest wind speed.

That said, when I let my hair down, a few strands did get a little caught in the fan. And while this JisuLife model is great for a walk or hike on a hot day, it’s not particularly suited for running if you bounce up and down a lot as you stride. But it’s an attractive and affordable way to stay cool on the go. And it comes in five colors (dark green, dark blue, gray, green, and yellow).

Best for cooling: Torras Coolify Portable Air Conditioner Neck Fan

Torras

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Specs

  • Type: Bladeless 
  • Weight: .77 pounds
  • Battery: 5,000 mAh
  • Battery life: Up to 4 hours in cooling mode; up to 8 hours in fan mode

Pros

  • Air conditioner and fan in one
  • Lightweight
  • Long-lasting battery

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Some users say battery can run hot

Why not get the best of both worlds with a neck fan and air conditioner in one? Torras’ Coolify neck fan comes with a built-in ceramic semiconductor radiator that provides air conditioning the company says can cool the skin by 18 degrees Fahrenheit in three seconds. It also features a fan with a motor that operates at a speedy 500 rpm, blowing cool air out and up to your face through 36 vents. At just .77 pounds, it’s lightweight and has a sleek design. The included lithium-ion battery charges in about 2.5 hours and lasts up to 4 hours in cooling mode and up to 8 hours in fan mode.

Best adjustable: AMACOOL Bladeless Neck Fan

AMACOOL

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Specs

  • Type: Bladeless
  • Weight: 9.7 ounces
  • Battery: 5,000 mAh
  • Battery life: Up to 7 hours

Pros

  • Adjustable neck band
  • Comes with two motors
  • Features energy-saving mode

Cons

  • Some users say it’s not that powerful

A neck fan is an ingenious solution for on-the-spot cooling, but if it doesn’t feel comfortable on your neck, you’re not going to wear it. AMACOOL’s Bladeless Neck Fan was designed from silicone to be adjustable so that the neckband can fit everyone from a child to an adult with a large neck. At 5,000mAh, the battery is powerful for a neck fan. This device features two motors that power four speeds, including an energy-saving mode. It can also provide up to 9 hours of cooling (depending on the fan speed) from its 60 air vents. You can also use it with a stroller. Consider one of the best outdoor misting fans for a more comprehensive option.

Best for kids: ICEBIRDS Portable Neck Fan for Kids

ICEBIRDS

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Specs

  • Type: Bladeless 
  • Weight: 9.2 ounces
  • Battery: 1,800mAh
  • Battery life: Up to 9 hours

Pros

  • Comes in animal designs
  • Affordable
  • Features three speeds

Cons

  • Battery not very powerful

Getting a kid to wear something is a lot easier if it has a fun design. ICEBIRDS Portable Neck Fan fits the bill. Designed specifically for children, these fans come in several animal-inspired models, including Bear Orange, Dinosaur Cyan, and Swan White. At 11.9 ounces, this neck fan is lightweight. It also has three speeds, though the 1,800-mAh battery isn’t particularly powerful. But depending on the speed, the charge can last for up to 9 hours. 

Best budget: Comlife Portable Neck Fan

Comlife

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Specs

  • Type: Blades
  • Weight: 6.9 ounces
  • Battery: 2,600 mAh
  • Battery life: Up to 9 hours

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Features two heads 
  • Long battery life

Cons

  • Battery may get hot
  • Some users say it’s not that powerful

Comlife’s wearable fan is an ideal way to stay cool without spending a lot of cash.  This double-headed small portable fan hangs comfortably on the neck and is 360-degree adjustable. It features six fan speeds, battery life between two and 9 hours depending on use, and an included USB cable for simple charging. This necklace fan weighs just 6.9 ounces, so you can even wear it during a vigorous workout or just for a walk around the neighborhood. — Carsen Joenk

Things to consider before you buy a neck fan

Neck fans are deceptively easy to use; just charge them and put them on for instant relief. But there are some features to look for when making your decision.

Bladeless v. with blades

The makers of bladeless fans say the benefit of their design is that users’ hair won’t get caught in blades and that they’re safer for kids. While that’s generally true, sometimes longer strands can still get caught in a neck fan’s vents. But hair is easier to remove and doesn’t get tangled as it would for models made with blades.

Power

The batteries of the neck fans on this list range from 1,800mAh to 5,000mAh. The best overall one we tested provided plenty of relief, but some users have said certain models aren’t powerful enough. While a neck fan should provide a cool breeze to your face and neck, keep in mind that at their size, they’re not a replacement for more powerful portable fans.

Two-in-one functionality

Some models are designed with additional features for extra cooling, such as the Torras Coolify Portable Air Conditioner Neck Fan, which is a neck fan and air conditioner in one. You’ll appreciate the added cooling power, but remember that this more advanced technology will cost more and may be harder to repair.

Battery life

Many of the picks on this list come with USB-C cords for charging. It’s important to remember that most of the neck fans on this list can operate at three levels of wind speed. The battery will last longer (up to 16 hours) if you use a lower speed or an energy-saving mode if the fan has one.

Noise levels

You don’t want a neck fan close to your face that’s so loud you can’t hear. The range of wind speeds also results in different noise levels. Look for neck fans that are quieter, such as the JisuLife Bladeless Neck Cooler, which operates at about 25 decibels.

FAQs

Q: How much does a neck fan cost?

The cost of a neck fan depends on the sophistication of its features. The Torras Coolify Portable Air Conditioner Neck Fan is designed with a ceramic semiconductor radiator that allows it to act as a neck fan and air conditioner in one. It costs around $120. At the other end of the spectrum, the budget-friendly Comlife Portable Neck Fan features two small fans and will cost you about $20.

Q: How long should you charge a neck fan?

The amount of time you should charge a neck fan depends on the model. Some, like the Torras Coolify Portable Air Conditioner Neck Fan, reached a full charge in about 2 hours, while the Comlife Portable Neck Fan takes about 4 hours to charge up fully. Once your device is charged, you should remove the power source to ensure the battery doesn’t overheat.

Q: Can I leave a fan on for 12 hours?

You can leave a neck fan on for 12 hours if you have a model like the JisuLife Bladeless Neck Cooler, which lasts up to 16 hours. Keep in mind that you’ll have to run the fan at a lower speed for it to last that long.

Final thoughts on the best neck fans

Just as headphones and earbuds help you create a serene bubble on the go, a neck fan can help add some physical cool to that mental oasis. These adaptable options can provide targeted relief for hours, saving energy and money. As the hot days linger, a neck fan is an essential tool to add to your collection of weather-related accessories.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best neck fans in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best space watches of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-space-watches/ Fri, 09 Jul 2021 13:59:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=377984
eclipse space watches
Unsplash, Brian Goff

Even if you’re still working on your invite to the moon, the cool factor is high.

The post The best space watches of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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eclipse space watches
Unsplash, Brian Goff

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Best overall swatch space watches Swatch Space Collection
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These watches were inspired by iconic astronaut gear.

Best premium omega space watch Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch
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Issued to every American astronaut, this watch is a classic.

Best for smartwatch owners Turn your Apple Watch into a space-themed showpiece. MobyFox Smartwatch Band
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Turn your Apple Watch into a space-themed showpiece.

The history of space watches ranges from the Russian cosmonaut programs to modern residents of the International Space Station. They’re designed with a wide array of functionality, but the concept of space has also left its aesthetic mark on watch design.

Space watches are popular for a few different reasons. When we’re talking about the specific models of wristwatches that have gone into space, those models have a certain cachet: they were durable enough for some of the most extreme environments a human can experience. And owning one provides a cool feeling of connection to astronauts and cosmonauts. Here are some of our favorite space watches.

How we chose the best space watches

For a watch to be rated space-worthy, you know that the watch has passed a whole battery of tests. These watches must be waterproof, airproof, resistant to both extreme heat and extreme cold, and capable of withstanding the bumpiest of landings. In other words, these are the toughest of the tough.

There are also simply space-themed watches, which tie into the broader trend of affinity for the classic NASA logo. Space is, you know, cool right now. That NASA logo is both vintage and forward-looking. Companies do need approval from NASA to use the logo, but it’s not especially hard to get. Not surprisingly, those have been flooding in lately; according to an LA Times story, NASA gets multiple requests per day these days. We looked for a range of options from top watchmakers in a variety of styles and prices in compiling our list.

The best space watches: Reviews & Recommendations

In the early days of the Space Race, wristwatches had an outsized level of importance. Buzz Aldrin, for example, actually wore his on the outside of his spacesuit; he used its chronograph (that means “timer”) feature as soon as he stepped onto the Moon. Some astronauts even wear two watches, for backup or to conduct multiple simultaneous operations with timers and alarms. So if you don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on the same watch Neil Armstrong wore, you can still show your love of the universe outside our home planet.

Best overall: Swatch Space Collection

Swatch

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Swatch, the Swiss company known for its vibrant, endlessly quirky plastic watches, has a newish collection dedicated to celebrating NASA and its famous missions. The watch designs—there are five—are inspired by different elements of the space missions: the orange jumpsuits, the Space Race, and even the Omega Speedmaster itself (Swatch and Omega are owned by the same company). Three of the watches in the collection are also made of a new material Swatch calls “bioceramic,” a combination of renewable plastics and ceramics.

Best classic: Bulova Moonwatch

Bulova

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In 1971, Apollo 15 mission commander Dave Scott actually damaged his NASA-provided Omega Speedmaster during the flight. But he had brought along his own personal backup, a Bulova, which he slapped on his wrist before becoming the seventh man on the Moon. Today, Bulova makes a replica of that watch, and it’s much more affordable than the Omega. 

Best for smartwatch owners: MobyFox NASA Band

MobyFox

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As far as we can tell, no astronaut or cosmonaut has taken a smartwatch into space yet. They’re not really designed for that kind of high-intensity, long-lasting kind of reliability. This MobyFox band, which advertises that it’s officially licensed, can bring that space flavor to your ground-bound Apple Watch. It’s compatible with all sizes of Apple Watch and is made of tough silicone. It also sports that iconic orange color made famous by American astronauts.

Best premium: Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch

Omega

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There’s no getting around it: the Omega Speedmaster is the watch more associated with space travel than any other. It was the first watch approved by NASA, and it passed every test with flying colors. It’s stainless steel, 42 mm case, equipped with a chronograph (timer) and tachymeter (those numbers around the outside of the dial, used to measure speed). It’s pricey, but look, if you want to tell time like an astronaut, this is your opportunity.

Things to consider before purchasing a space watch 

What you should look for in a space watch depends on budget, taste, and exactly why you want a space watch in the first place. If you’re into the aesthetics of the NASA logo, there are more inexpensive options available. After all, as a government agency, NASA isn’t allowed to make money from the sale of products with its logo, and dozens of companies have created NASA-themed gear. Some of these collaborations have come and gone, but you can still find them on eBay and Etsy; search for “Timex x NASA,” for example, and you’ll find a whole bunch of them. (Some even double down on Timex’s collaborations, with an image of Snoopy in space on the watch face.)

If you want something unusual, look to the watches worn by the Russian cosmonauts, from makers like Sturmanskie and Poljot. If you want the absolute classic, well, there’s only ever been one watch that’s been approved by NASA for outer space travel (though astronauts have worn many different, unapproved watches, too). That’s the Omega Speedmaster.

Final thoughts on the best space watches

Owning one of the best space watches allows you to celebrate the extraterrestial achievements of astronauts and the space program through the years. Whether you prefer a a classic look or just want to swap the band for your smartwatch, there’s an option that’s out of this world for you.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best space watches of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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January AI glucose monitor review: A pricey but effective approach to fine-tune your diet https://www.popsci.com/gear/january-ai-glucose-monitor-review/ Thu, 17 Aug 2023 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=561522
January AI helps you keep tabs on your blood sugar all day.

These medical devices are now being marketed to non-diabetics who want to keep tabs on their metabolic health.

The post January AI glucose monitor review: A pricey but effective approach to fine-tune your diet appeared first on Popular Science.

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January AI helps you keep tabs on your blood sugar all day.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

What if you could walk into a grocery store, scan the barcode on a Rice Krispie treat, and find out how it would affect your blood sugar before buying it? That’s the promise of January, a virtual continuous glucose monitor (CGM) system that the company describes as a “24/7 AI health coach to change the way you live.”

As a middle-aged woman with a family history of diabetes and a pizza weakness, I’ve wanted to try a CGM. After more than a week of testing the January AI system, I found it to be an effective tool that gave me more insight into my metabolic health and actually helped me lose a few pounds. It’s a sizeable investment but can return equally valuable insights if you sign up for a subscription and keep a few things in mind.

January

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Overview

  • After filling out your health history in an online telehealth session, if you’re approved, January will send you a CGM
  • Once you attach the CGM to your arm, you log the food you’ve eaten, scan the sensor with your phone, and the January app shows your glucose levels in real-time
  • You must also sync with an Apple Watch or an Oura Ring to record your activity levels
  • After five days, January will provide detailed recommendations for foods to eat and activities, taking your preferences into account
  • A one-month subscription costs $288, and an annual subscription is $380

Pros

  • Provides feedback in real-time on how various foods will affect your glucose levels
  • Includes a comprehensive database of foods. You can also enter using a QR code on-site in a store
  • Fun to use
  • Recommends activity to counteract high glucose levels
  • Provides meal plans and activity recommendations based on your nutritional needs and preferences

Cons

  • Somewhat expensive
  • Might not be good for someone with a history of disordered eating around calorie restriction
  • Sensor came out somewhat easily

Verdict: If you’re concerned about your risk of diabetes because of family history, physical health, or age, or you just want personalized recommendations on how to live healthier, the January AI system is a useful and fun tool.

What is a continuous glucose monitor (CGM)?

Continuous glucose monitors were originally developed in the 1980s to help diabetics keep tabs on their blood glucose, or blood sugar, levels. People with diabetes have trouble making insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas that allows glucose to be used by cells for energy. Glucose then remains in the bloodstream, keeping blood sugar levels high over time. Chronic high blood sugar can also damage the kidneys, heart, and nervous system.

While CGMs used to require users to prick their fingers to test their blood sugar, newer CGMs include a small sensor that goes under the skin. The sensor will then transmit readings of your glucose levels to a device that will analyze them. Pioneering CGM makers include Dexcom, which made the first CGM that didn’t require a finger pricking and got FDA approval for diabetics in 2016.

Increasingly, people who aren’t diabetic, including elite athletes, are using CGMs to get a more granular sense of their metabolic health. Other popular CGMs that keep popping up in my Instagram feed include Nutrisense and Levels. Tech sites have speculated for years about Apple’s possible plan to build a CGM into the Apple Watch. However, CGMs still require a medical prescription, and their use by people who haven’t been diagnosed with diabetes has generated debate in the medical community. One perspective published in the journal JAMA described CGMs for non-diabetics as a “waste of time and money.” 

Other doctors point to the more than 120 million Americans who either already have diabetes or are prediabetic. Peter Attia, M.D., who co-authored the bestselling book, Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity, makes the case that the typical blood sugar tests that patients get annually don’t reveal daily spikes that can signal a brewing problem.

“In the vast majority of cases, today’s normal individual is tomorrow’s diabetic patient if something isn’t done to detect and prevent this slide,” Attia writes. Fluctuating glucose levels have also been associated with an increased risk of heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease, he notes.

While I’m generally healthy, I was interested in learning more about my blood sugar levels and how they might affect my life. My parents had been diagnosed with Type II diabetes in their 40s, so I checked the family history box. After losing weight early in the pandemic, I put on some pounds last year. And despite training for my first marathon, I found that all the exercise wasn’t helping get me into better shape as easily as running did when I was younger. 

True, the lab results from the last time I was tested after a visit to my primary care doctor in September 2022 passed muster. My glucose level of 87 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) was in the middle of the normal range, but my hemoglobin A1C—the standard test that measures the average of blood glucose over 90 days—was 5.5%, on the high side of normal.

According to the CDC,  a reading of 99 mg/dL or lower is normal for fasting blood sugar, while 100 to 125 mg/dL signals that you’re prediabetic, and 126 mg/dL or higher indicates you have diabetes. Would seeing those spikes on my phone just after eating help me make better decisions?

The background

Monitoring daily fluctuations in blood sugar can provide a much better window into your metabolic health, says Noosheen Hashemi, January’s co-founder and CEO. She became passionate about a more holistic approach to health care after learning the truth about her parents’ medical conditions. Doctors failed to diagnose her father with prostate cancer while he was being treated for another cancer. And her mother’s heart failure was misdiagnosed as asthma.

“Once you fall into that sick journey, all sorts of things can happen to you,” Hashemi says. “So I became obsessed with: ‘How can we know sooner, what can we know, and why do we know so little?’”

She teamed up with Michael Snyder, Ph.D., chair of Genetics and Director of Genomics and Personalized Medicine at Stanford School of Medicine. Snyder was conducting research that revealed a population of people who looked to have healthy blood sugar levels actually frequently had spikes in which their glucose reached diabetic levels.

“He believed this was a ticking time bomb and that we should look into it,” Hashemi says. “That’s how we got started.”

That was more than five years ago. They’ve since used machine learning to develop a library of foods complete with nutritional information and incorporated data from their clinical studies and thousands of users to develop and refine models for predicting glucose spikes.

They also realized that most of the their users were not diabetics, but instead what Hashemi describes as “optimizers and discoverers”: fit people looking to optimize their health or people who had potential risk factors, such as a family history, like me. Hashemi is optimistic that the FDA will approve CGMs for non-diabetics next year.

Diabetes photo

The setup

People interested in using January have to complete a telehealth evaluation online. The process involves filling out an online form, not a virtual interaction with a live healthcare professional.

For $288 ($260 for the gear and $28 for the membership), you get a Freestyle Libre CGM, access to January AI’s glycemic food database and recommendations through its app, and $40 off an Oura Ring (Gen 2 or Gen 3) to track your activity. (You can also use an Apple Watch, which I did.) If you’re approved, the Freestyle Libre will arrive in the mail shortly. 

Easy-to-follow videos on the Freestyle LibreLink app showed me how to apply the CGM sensor. I felt a slight pin prick and mild soreness when I installed the sensor on my left upper arm. The app is connected to a medical practice based in California. After agreeing to use of my health data, I was up and running. 

Then using the January app, I was instructed how to scan the sensor with my phone and sync my Apple Watch. Once the sensor is active, it’s ready to deliver real-time glucose readings after each scan. Over the next five days, January’s AI would analyze my glucose levels, activity, and what I was eating and compare it to its thousands of users to predict my body’s response to various foods and exercise. “It takes inputs from your heart rate monitor and your food log and your CGM to build a digital twin for you,” Hashemi says. 

Diabetes photo

The performance

I began using January at the end of June, logging my meals and scanning the CGM. I found the food database reasonably comprehensive, although sometimes it took some scrolling down to find the exact food.

I was warned that the initial glucose levels could be either high or very low within the first 24 to 48 hours as the CGM calibrated to my system. My first blood sugar reading was very low—58 mg/dL—which got me googling hypoglycemia. 

Then I ate a small bowl of vegetable ramen leftover from a night out at a restaurant the night before. I scanned the CGM with my phone about 5 minutes after eating and found my glucose was in the normal range: 90 mg/dL.

The January app provides reports on the previous day in three categories: Nourish (calories, fiber intake, and macros); Move (post-meal activity, time exercised, and calories burned); and Recharge (fasting period, last-meal sleep gap, and sleep duration). After the five initial days of analysis, January’s AI notified me that it had created my digital twin and began making recommendations for food choices and activity.

I’ve never stuck with food logs in the past, but the ability to quickly see how specific items affected my blood sugar became something I looked forward to testing. I also discovered that requirement to log what I was eating provided additional incentive to eat better. I had been prioritizing protein over refined carbs over the past few months and was glad to see that eating Greek yogurt, flax seeds, and blueberries for breakfast got me a shoutout for protein and fiber goals. I also dialed back on the snacking that’s too easy to do when working from home about six feet from the fridge.

I felt compelled in the name of science to see how a slice of pesto pizza and a Rice Krispie treat would affect my readings. As expected, these foods spiked my blood sugar more than my virtuous breakfast. When I had a high reading, the app recommended a walk after the meal. The January app also provided alternatives based on your preferences (although I was wasn’t excited to replace chia seeds with dried spirulina).

You can also reach out through the app to a virtual health coach named Jan, who provides chatbot answers on everything from what you should eat for lunch to creating a new exercise plan. The company is also in the process of adding more FAQs, such as what is a normal glucose level. Hashemi is quick to point out, however, that January is not a healthcare provider, but it does provide lifestyle recommendations based on their (and your) data. 

Diabetes photo

In fact, January has explicit behaviors that it’s leading users toward, including adopting intermittent fasting, increasing fiber consumption, aligning calorie intake with activity level, getting post-meal movement, and reducing glucose-spiking foods.

I was doing reasonably well with all of these, but unfortunately, after eight days of testing, I accidentally dislodged my sensor while getting dressed. But January’s AI still provided plenty of valuable insights during the time I used it. My blood sugar was mostly low to normal, but I did see a few spikes that took me out of my normal range. And I did lose a few pounds and came to appreciate the importance of better discipline and regular meals. I did wish there was more information for people with readings on the low side.

But while the nudge toward intermittent fasting might be helpful for many (myself included), I saw how it could also cause problems for people with a propensity for disordered eating around calorie restriction. It concerned me that after I stopped logging meals, the app indicated on days when I didn’t enter food that the number of calories I consumed was “excellent.”

So, who should buy the January system?

Yes, $288 for a month’s subscription sounds expensive. But if you generally eat the same things, 30 days will give you plenty of time to analyze your health data and see how different foods affect you. I’m hopeful that glucose level monitoring will become more accessible and affordable, bearing in mind the estimated 96 million Americans over age 18 characterized as prediabetic.

Technological advances have made it possible for us to see our heart rate with a quick glance at our wrist, a luxury many of our parents didn’t have. Now, the ability to test our blood sugar is now almost as frictionless as posting on Instagram. If you’re concerned about your glucose levels due to family history or just want to fine-tune your health, January’s AI can help with daily insights and personalized recommendations. Just remember that it’s a tool and doesn’t replace regular visits to your healthcare provider. 

The post January AI glucose monitor review: A pricey but effective approach to fine-tune your diet appeared first on Popular Science.

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Update your fall wardrobe with up to 50% off Citizen, Timex, and Bulova watches at Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/fall-watch-citizen-star-wars-amazon-deal/ Wed, 09 Aug 2023 16:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=562086
A lineup of watches on a white background
Amanda Reed

If you're a "Star Wars" fan, Citizen's popular line of Jedi-inspired watches are back and on sale at Amazon.

The post Update your fall wardrobe with up to 50% off Citizen, Timex, and Bulova watches at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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A lineup of watches on a white background
Amanda Reed

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Back to school is almost here, meaning it’s time to pull out the blazers, trousers, and coats for professor-inspired, college-core, dark academia drip. Nothing says, “I am an adjunct at a New England college and also the mysterious protagonist in a romance novel,” quite like a really nice watch. Thankfully, you don’t need to spend much to put the cherry on top of your literary cosplay cake with up to 50% off Citizen, Timex, and Bulova watches at Amazon.

Tissot T-Sport PRC200 Chronograph Mens Watch-Stainless Steel, Grey $221.99 (Was $595)

Tissot

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On sale for a massive 63% off, the Tissot T-Sport PRC200 Chronograph Mens Watch features a thin, 42-millimeter 316L stainless steel case and sleek light and dark grey band. You get Arabic numbers and thick stick indices on the face, with the typical chronograph watch subdials. Don’t let its stylish face fool you: it’s water-resistant up to 20 bars of pressure and includes a diver extension closure to fit over a wetsuit if you wish. You might want to save it for swimming laps, as it’s not made for diving or snorkeling.

If you’d rather channel Jedi Knight, Citizen’s Star Wars-inspired watches are back in stock. You sold them out the first time we wrote about them, so now is your chance to get your hands (or hand, in Luke Skywalker’s case) on one.

Citizen Eco-Drive Star Wars Men’s Watch, Stainless Steel with Orange Leather strap, Rebel Pilot, Silver-Tone, 44mm $244.41 (Was $395)

Citizen

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We love the “May the Force be with you” engraving on the back of this watch, along with symbols—a helmet and an X-Wing fighter—that show you’re part of the Rebel cause. Even better, it’s 38% off.

These are the Citizen x Star Wars watches you’re looking for:

And here are more watch deals that are not a trap:

The post Update your fall wardrobe with up to 50% off Citizen, Timex, and Bulova watches at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best hearing aids under $100 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-hearing-aids-under-100/ Wed, 22 Jun 2022 21:49:30 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=451432
The best hearing aids under $100
Stan Horaczek

Hearing solutions if your budget is tight, based on science.

The post The best hearing aids under $100 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best hearing aids under $100
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall Sound World Solutions CS50+ Sound World Solutions CS50+
SEE IT

It costs more than $100, but it’s worth the extra money.

Best budget Britzgo Otto (BH-220) Britzgo Otto (BH-220)
SEE IT

It’s extremely affordable, but don’t expect many advanced features.

Best headset-style option BeHear Access BeHear Access
SEE IT

Its familiar form factor should make it more comfortable for some.

Virtually all hearing aids cost $1,000 or more, which makes finding the best hearing aids under $100 prohibitively challenging. Modern hearing aids contain advanced digital technology, including tiny computing systems that allow them to be highly customizable and amplify only certain sounds. Most inexpensive hearing amplifiers have not been approved as hearing aids by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and, like the hearing aids of the past, focus on simply amplifying sound without the same level of customization. Earlier this year, the FDA legalized the sale of over-the-counter hearing aids, which should open up the market for cheaper devices, but it will be a relatively slow process. For now, cheap hearing devices are tricky to navigate.

“If you go back 10, 15, 20 years ago to what hearing aids used to be, they’re now becoming more of a direct-to-consumer solution,” said Dr. Vinaya Manchaiah, director of audiology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. These products are called personal sound amplification products (PSAPs) and can technically only be marketed to people without hearing loss who want to amplify their hearing.

However, many people use these items to help them with hearing loss out of necessity, either because insurance will not cover the cost of hearing aids or because they do not have insurance and cannot afford to buy a hearing aid out-of-pocket. While some cheap PSAPS have minimal benefit and can actually further damage hearing, research shows that others can benefit people with hearing loss. Here are some personal sound amplifiers that can help you hear better for under or around $100 per device.

How we chose the best hearing aids under $100

To find out general information on hearing aids, personal sound amplification products, the differences between them, and what determines if an amplifier is safe to use, we spoke with five audiologists and heard from a sixth over email. All sources answered questions about affordable hearing aids and amplifiers, though two answered questions focused on PSAPs and direct-to-consumer hearing aids. For more general information and our recommendations for true hearing aids, please see our article on top hearing aids.

To determine our product picks, we looked at products compared in scientific studies, a comparison published in a professional magazine, and comparative tests done by staffers at Wirecutter and Consumer Reports. We also looked at recommendations for limits on safe hearing aid sound amplification. In choosing, we mainly primarily considered each product’s price, how well it worked compared to true hearing aids, and whether it was safe to use without the potential of damaging hearing. The size and discreetness of the best hearing aids under $100 were also considered, as was ease of use.

The best hearing aids under $100: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: Sound World Solutions CS50+

Sound World Solutions

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Why it made the cut: Though it’s on the more expensive side, this device is one of the few that can truly stack up favorably against a traditional hearing aid.

Specs

  • 12 hours of battery life, rechargeable
  • 3 presets, complete customization through app
  • 112 dB maximum sound amplification

Pros

  • Data on effectiveness when compared to a hearing aid
  • Helpful features like Bluetooth for calls and music
  • Highly customizable through both presets and the app
  • Hundreds to thousands less than hearing aids

Cons

  • More expensive than some PSAPs
  • Not discreet

These devices are some of the few that stack up well against true hearing aids, according to multiple studies. In a 2017 comparison published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, these devices performed the closest to hearing aids of the five PSAPs tested, as measured by participants’ accuracy in interpreting speech. In another study published in 2018, the CS50+ performed the closest to a true hearing aid out of three PSAPs when tested for audibility, speech recognition, listening effort, and sound quality. As a well-studied and tested product, you can also be sure it’s safe to use.

The SWS CS50+ has three pre-set frequency modes, though you can customize the amplification further through the accompanying app. It uses rechargeable batteries, which have a 12-hour charge, that come with the device. You can also use the device’s Bluetooth to listen to music or take phone calls.  

The main disadvantage of these PSAPs is their significantly higher price and, since they are sold individually, you need to buy two. Still, they are hundreds or thousands of dollars less than almost any hearing aid and in many ways compare favorably in terms of quality. They are also quite bulky and noticeable, though reportedly not uncomfortable to wear.

Most affordable: Britzgo Otto (BH-220)

Britzgo

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Why it made the cut: If you’re on a tight budget, these affordable devices are likely safe, amplify sound effectively, and are helpful for many.

Specs

  • 500 hours battery life, disposable
  • 4 preset modes
  • 129 dB maximum sound amplification

Pros

  • Ultra-affordable
  • Extremely long battery life
  • Somewhat customizable
  • Positive reviews

Cons

  • Limited information on safety and effectiveness
  • Not rechargeable or Bluetooth compatible

At $60 per device or $113 for a pair, these Britzgo hearing amplifiers work for you if you are on a tight budget. They come in two colors—blue and silver—and are relatively discrete. The style is similar to “receiver in the ear” hearing aids, though they are bulkier than most similar-looking hearing aids.  It has four pre-set modes: one for low frequency (pitch) sounds, as well as for high frequencies, medium frequencies, and a wide range of frequencies. You can switch between them based on your preferences, hearing loss, and environment. The device is fairly easy to control and it has easily replaceable batteries that last a long time.

Not many studies evaluate devices in Otto’s price range and many do find that these devices have little benefit or are even harmful. However, with over 2,000 positive reviews on Amazon, it’s clear that many people feel that they have benefitted from these inexpensive devices. In a frequency response test done by Wirecutter, the devices amplified sound in much the same way as other amplifiers, including ones that are much more expensive, though they didn’t do as well with some of the highest frequencies.

These amplifiers are generally considered to be safe and not harmful. Birtzgo’s devices are designed by doctors and audiologists, and the Jobs Accommodations Network claims on its website that they are certified to be safe by 96% of audiologists, though it’s unclear where this claim comes from. Consumer Reports found that all but the cheapest PSAPs are generally safe to use. That said, the maximum sound amplification level and full-on gain of the Otto, two measures of sound amplification, are both above what the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) has suggested (110 dB and 35 dB, respectively) as a safe maximum level for an over-the-counter product. That means some very loud, sustained noises (such as a siren) could be dangerously loud when amplified, especially if the person still has a substantial hearing at that frequency.

Best headset-style option: BeHear Access

BeHear

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Why it made the cut: This versatile and affordable device looks like a normal Bluetooth headset but can also amplify sound and reduce noise. in a variety of situations.

Specs

  • 13 hours of battery life, rechargeable
  • 4 preset modes + 2 telecoil modes
  • 116 dB maximum sound amplification

Pros

  • Bluetooth capability for calls and music
  • Somewhat customizable
  • Affordable
  • Amplifies sound effectively and likely safely

Cons

  • Limited information on safety and effectiveness
  • Not discreet or appropriate in all situations

The BeHear Access costs $300 dollars in total but it only requires a single device. That means you’re effectively paying $150 per ear. That’s the general price range of many devices listed here. This device looks and in many ways works like a regular Bluetooth headset, but can also amplify sound in a wide variety of situations. Like many amplifiers, it’s especially recommended for one-on-one conversations, watching TV, and talking on the phone. It works best in situations with limited background noise. It has three modes for amplifying different frequencies and incorporates a host of technologies, including noise reduction. Like a regular Bluetooth headset, you can also use it to take cell phone calls or listen to music.

The same Wirecutter sound comparison that looked at the Otto above also found that this product amplified sound in a similar way to many other devices—specifically, in a way that would amplify high frequencies more (age-related hearing loss tends to impact higher-frequency hearing first). If anything, the BeHear Access amplified the highest-frequency sound slightly more effectively.

Like other mid-range PSAPs, this device is likely safe to use. Its maximum sound amplification is also lower than the Britzgo Otto amplifier, though still slightly over ASHA’s recommendation, though its full-on gain is higher. The device is rechargeable and features a telecoil, which can be used with some landline phones as well as with amplification systems in places like churches and movie theaters to amplify sound directly through the device. This device can be used with or without its corresponding app.

Best body-worn device: Pocketalker Ultra

Williams Sound

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Why it made the cut: The Pocketalker is an affordable, easy-to-use hearing device that has been shown to be able to meet guidelines met by hearing aids for people with mild hearing loss.

Specs

  • 200 hours of battery life, disposable
  • Only one mode, adjustable tone and volume
  • Roughly 123.8 dB maximum sound amplification

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Some data on quality/effectiveness
  • Likely safe
  • Long battery life

Cons

  • Virtually no customization
  • Data suggests only appropriate for mild hearing loss

One of the least expensive types of PSAPs, as well as the simplest to use, body-worn devices amplify sound from a person’s surroundings through a box-like device connected to headphones. Wearers only need one device to work in both ears. 

In a 2016 analysis, the Pocketalker Ultra met many of the same sound targets met by hearing aids for mild hearing loss, as well as some for moderate hearing loss, though for moderate hearing loss it fell below the typical standard.

A main advantage of a device like the Pocketalker is that it’s extremely simple to use. There’s no app to figure out and it doesn’t have multiple modes. You simply plug in the included earbud or headphones, listen, and adjust the tone and volume as needed. Of course, this simplicity can also be a disadvantage, since it’s not as customizable as other PSAPs and far less so than hearing aids.

Though the Pocketalker comes with two headphone options, it can be used with a variety of headphones, making it somewhat more uncertain what the maximum sound amplification might be. Its specs indicate that it falls into the same place as the other devices on this list. That’s over ASHA recommendations, though not substantially, and so is likely safe to use. The Pocketalker uses two AAA batteries and boasts a battery life of 200 hours, far longer than any true hearing aid.

Best discreet device: Tweak Focus+T

Tweak

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Why it made the cut: For those who value a more discreet device, the Tweak Focus+T is much less visible but still has been shown to be effective and compare favorably to hearing aids.

Specs

  • 5-7 days of battery life, disposable
  • 2 environment presets + telecoil, 4 amplification modes
  • Unknown maximum amplification

Pros

  • Data on effectiveness
  • Small and discreet
  • Long battery life

Cons

  • Not rechargeable
  •  No Bluetooth calls or music
  • Not as effective as the SWS CS50+

If a larger, more noticeable hearing amplifier is a major drawback for you, this product might fit your needs. In the same 2017 JAMA study that tested the CS50+, researchers found that this device also compared favorably to hearing aids, though it did not work at well as the Sound World Solutions device. 

The Tweak Focus has a longer battery life (five to seven days) than our previous pick but its batteries aren’t rechargeable, and there is no Bluetooth compatibility for taking calls or listening to music. It’s also less customizable, though it has two presets for different environments and four ranges of amplification for different severities of hearing loss (in addition to volume control). It also has a telecoil.

Like the Sound World Solution device, this one has a higher cost but is also more easily comparable to traditional hearing aids. It’s also likely very safe because it’s been well-studied and was designed by an audiologist.

Things to consider before buying a personal sound amplification device

Get your hearing tested

The first step you should take before buying any hearing device is to take a hearing test. You’ll get the best results at a doctor’s office but there are also hearing tests that you can take online. The doctor will be able to diagnose possible causes for hearing issues, such as ear infections, injuries, or blocked canals. 

Generally, PSAPs are appropriate for those with mild or moderate hearing loss, the two least severe categories of hearing loss. If your hearing loss is categorized as severe or profound, PSAPs—even the best hearing aids under $100—may not be helpful for you. You’ll likely need true FDA-approved hearing aids to improve your hearing.

Check your insurance and consider your options

It’s worth double-checking that you aren’t able to get insurance to cover the cost of hearing aids before investing in a PSAP. Though these devices are affordable, studies show that many people tend to be more satisfied with a true hearing aid that can be customized for their hearing loss. Insurance companies will likely not cover the cost of any PSAP because they are not considered medical devices. If your barrier is not cost, but rather a hesitancy to seek or lack of access to medical care, you may also want to consider online providers of true hearing aids, such as Lively and Lexie.

Consider the risks

PSAPs range in price from less than $30 to around $500 or even more for a pair. The cheapest PSAPs are simple sound amplifiers, amplifying all sounds equally regardless of relevance. That might be okay if you are talking to only one person in a quiet room but will likely be confusing in any noisy environment. Research shows that around 90% of these devices have poor sound quality and don’t meet sound standards set for hearing aids.

“They are simply general amplifiers,” said Dr. Rachel Smith, a clinical associate professor of audiology at the University of Rhode Island.  “So they’re just kind of making everything louder.”

Other studies have found that because cheap hearing amplifiers can block the ears without amplifying sound properly, people tend to hear worse while wearing them. Very cheap amplifiers also have the potential to do more harm than good, overamplifying sound and causing further damage to hearing. Even investing more in one of the best hearing aids under $100 is usually a better choice if you want a device that has the best chance of working for you without causing further damage.

FAQs

Q: What brand of hearing amplifier is best?

Several studies have found that overall, the Sound World Solutions CS50+ can provide superior sound amplification that is in some ways on par with a true hearing aid while not damaging remaining hearing with overamplification.

Q: What is the easiest hearing amplifier to use?

Of the amplifiers on our list of best hearing aids under $100, the Pocketalker is likely the easiest for most people to use, as it requires minimal setup, does not have various modes, and has no associated app.

Q: Can you buy a hearing amplifier online?

Yes. You can buy any of these amplifiers online. You can also buy many true hearing aids online, notably through direct-to-consumer services like Lively and Lexie, though these options are more expensive than PSAPs and our picks for the best hearing aids under $100.

Q: How do I choose a hearing aid or amplifier?

A doctor can provide the best advice if you have access to one. Beyond that, we try to recommend solid options that work for the majority of people. If you choose to purchase a true hearing aid through an audiologist, they can also help you decide what might work best for you based on your needs and individual hearing loss.

Q: Is it OK to use only one hearing air or amplifier?

Using only one hearing aid or amplifier might work well if you only have hearing loss or have much more hearing loss in one ear than the other. If you have hearing loss in both ears but can only afford one amplifier or hearing aid, using only one will not hurt you, but it may not be as effective as using a pair.

Q: What are the side effects of a hearing amplifier?

Hearing aids or amplifiers that are used properly and fit well shouldn’t have notable side effects. Hearing aids that are adjusted to be too loud can cause tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and headaches, while hearing aids that don’t fit properly can hurt the outside of the ear or the ear canal or can be itchy. If they are adjusted right or don’t work well for you, you might not be able to hear well. 

Hearing aids can sometimes cause acoustic feedback, where they will make a ringing sound, which happens when the amplifier picks up sound from its speakers that’s already been amplified. Properly adjusted hearing amplifiers should not have excessive feedback, though it may still be an occasional issue.

Q: How long does it take for your brain to adjust to a hearing amplifier?

Research shows that the longer someone with hearing loss does not wear a hearing amplifier, the harder it is for their brain to adjust to sound amplification. With hearing aids, many people adjust in two or three weeks, but it can take some as long as four months to get used to them.

Q: What is the average lifespan of a hearing amplifier?

Most true hearing aids last between three and seven years, though they can last for longer. There is less data on the lifespan of PSAPs. You can make sure the best hearing aids under $100 last as long as possible by caring for them properly.

Final thoughts on the best hearing aids under $100

Selecting an affordable personal sound amplification product can be tricky, especially with many products that are functionally useless or could damage hearing. Though truly effective products may come with a steeper price tag, and the best hearing aids under $100 are more likely to be a true help to you in addressing hearing loss if you cannot currently access a true hearing aid, and can help you feel less cut off from the sound and the people you love. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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The best hiking gear of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-hiking-gear/ Fri, 14 Jul 2023 21:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=556988
Smartwatches photo
Amanda Reed

Tell the indoors to take a hike while you take a long, relaxing, and much-needed trek equipped with this essential gear.

The post The best hiking gear of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Smartwatches photo
Amanda Reed

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Best overall A pair of gray low hiking boots on a blue and white gradient background Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX Men’s Hiking Shoes
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A great hike starts with a good sturdy pair of shoes.

Best headlamp A black BioLite headlamp on a blue and white background BioLite 800 Pro Headlamp
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A long-lasting light that has a bevy of settings.

Best budget A Coghlan's 1985 Carabiner Compass on a blue and white background. Coghlan’s 1985 Carabiner Compass
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Simply attach to your pack for easy navigation.

Hiking is a great way to elevate your mood (and body) and change your outlook(s), letting you change gears from the daily grind and get lots of endorphins. Nature makes you happy, and exercise makes you happy, so why not kill two birds with one stone? You can find hiking trails all around you, even if you’re a city slicker. A great hike starts with being prepared. That means getting a good sturdy pair of hiking shoes, snagging your favorite pack to carry what you need, and bringing a water bottle to stay hydrated—and that’s just the basics. The best hiking gear can help prepare you to get out and get your heart rate up, but not get lost in the wilderness.

How we chose the best hiking gear

We took what we learned from past camping stories—from camping grills to headlamps to techy gadgets—and expanded our judging from there. We thought about what we’d put into our packs—and what we already throw in there—and sought out products that fit those categories. We also looked at reviews and recommendations.

The best hiking gear: Reviews & Recommendations

One of our choices should help you tuck your phone away while you make your way to get some much-needed air.

Best overall: Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX Men’s Hiking Shoes

Salomon

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Specs

  • Weight: 14 ounces
  • Best for: Single-day hikes

Pros

  • Breathable
  • Waterproof
  • Can go from hike to work and back

Cons

  • Narrow
  • Run hot

A great hike starts with what you put on your feet. These shoes are fit to hit the trails or wear to work—the traction is excellent on all terrains, thanks to its Descent Control Technology, which helps safely descend from tough descends. Don’t worry about stepping in puddles—these shoes are waterproof, thanks to Gore-Tex. Additionally, a protective mudguard protects the lateral and medial sides of your feet from muddy trails. Anti-debris mesh prevents debris from being trapped between your foot and the footbed. An EnergyCell midsole—made from high-performance EVA foam—reduces shock when you hike, which makes them extra comfortable. They’re a bit narrow, so you might want to size up or snag the wide version of the shoe. Plus, they run hot, meaning they might not be the best for use in warmer climates—those with sweaty feet, beware. The comfort outweighed our feet getting sweaty, which was bound to happen anyway. You can always wear wool hiking socks to help wick away moisture. And you can always opt for a true boot with more ankle support (we’ve put some solid miles on the Vasque Men’s Breeze Waterproof Hiking Boots, for one) if you’re going for a longer hike with more elevation changes and uneven terrain.

Best for dogs: Ruffwear Front Range Day Pack

RUFFWEAR

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Specs

  • Weight: 9 ounces
  • Best for: Single-day hikes; weekend hikes

Pros

  • Radial cut saddlebags
  • Padded handle
  • Multiple colors

Cons

  • Pricey

If it doesn’t fit in your pack, try fitting it in your dog’s pack. Ruffwear is our favorite brand for rugged, well-constructed dog harnesses and backpacks, and the Front Range Day Pack tops the charts. A great model for mid-range activity, this pack comes in four sizes and fits dogs with a chest measurement between 17 and 42 inches. Five adjustment points mean you can further customize the fit, and foam-padded construction will continue to keep your dog comfortable. A vertical chest strap and cushioned belly strap improve stability, and a padded top handle means you can help your adventure buddy navigate tricky areas on the trail. 

The saddlebags feature a radial cut, weight-forward design, creating compression to keep each side close to your pup’s body and maintain balance. Inside each bag, a stretchy mesh pocket keeps treats, bags, and bowls organized. You can attach a leash to three points: a tow loop, webbed chest loop, and back V-ring. Available in three colors, the Front Range backpack is perfect for everyday use. It can fit all the essentials for a day hike or long walk without being unnecessarily bulky.

Best headlamp: BioLite 800 Pro Headlamp

BioLite

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Specs

  • Weight: 5.3 ounces
  • Best for: Single-day hikes; weekend hikes; thru-hiking

Pros

  • Rechargeable
  • Long-lasting
  • Red light option

Cons

  • Learning curve to controls

We’re fans of BioLite for many reasons: we think one of these headlamps is an excellent camping gadget thanks to its internal tech, and they’re rechargeable. The lamp delivers 800 lumens for 150 hours on low; seven hours on high; and eight hours on reserve. A Run Forever cord lets you connect a power bank for even more runtime. A moisture-wicking headband keeps you dry and cool, and integrated electronics prevent slipping and bouncing. A push on the back gives you 30 seconds of max brightness, and Constant mode gives you full illumination sans auto-dimming. There’s a bit of a learning curve if you’ve never used a BioLite headlamp, but it’s one of the best on the market once you get over it. If 800 lumens seems like overkill, consider its lower lumen cousin, the BioLite 325 headlamp, which maxes out at—you guessed it—325 lumens.

Best backpack: TETON Sports Explorer Internal Frame Backpack

TETON

SEE IT

Specs

  • Weight: 5 lbs.
  • Best for: Weekend hikes; thru-hiking

Pros

  • Rugged
  • Built-in bladder for water
  • Sleeping bag compartment

Cons

  • For more experienced hikers

If this isn’t your first time at the camping rodeo, consider this advanced hiking backpack from TETON. Multipoint adjustments and compression straps give you a near-custom fit. Angled water bottle containers, a sleeping bag compartment, and exterior pockets let you pack precisely and keep anything handy (like a granola bar or phone) within reach. A water-repellant exterior and rain cover means your stuff will stay dry in wet conditions. The pack also comes with a lifetime warranty, but you hopefully shouldn’t need it thanks to its durable construction.

Best watch: Garmin epix 2 Pro

Abby Ferguson

SEE IT

Specs

  • Weight: 2.22 ounces
  • Best for: Single-day hikes; weekend hikes; thru-hikes

Pros

  • Lots of sizes and colors
  • Rugged
  • Built-in flashlight
  • Safety features and health tracking

Cons

  • Setting and customizations can be overwhelming

Garmin’s epix watch has been one of the standards for hiking, trail running, and ultra-marathons since its initial release in 2015. The new epix 2 Pro is even more advanced and capable, offering a nearly endless list of features, sensors, and settings. For starters, it comes loaded with a plethora of activities to track, from the basics like hiking, running, and cycling to strength training, surfing, hunting, and more. You’ll also get lots of training tools to help improve your fitness, including Endurance Score, Training Status, Recovery Status, VO2 Max measurements, and more.

As with most Garmin multisport watches, the epix Pro gets a robust list of sensors for health and activity tracking. It offers the essentials for hiking, including a barometric altimeter, compass, and GPS. But it also provides advanced multi-frequency positioning for accurate location data, which allows you to use the watch for navigation purposes. You can even upload specific courses to keep you on track during events. And it offers weather maps to allow you to check the radar for precipitation, cloud cover, wind, and temperature. Something we love about top-of-the-line Garmin watches (this one, as well as the fēnix 7 Pro below) are the maps. Loads of preloaded maps, which look crisp and detailed on the always-on AMOLED screen (available under scratch-resistant sapphire glass or slightly-less-resilient Corning Gorilla Glass, if you want to save $100).

One thing we especially love about this adventure watch is that it is available in three different case sizes—42mm, 47mm, or 51mm—making it more suitable for a wider variety of wrists. It’s important to keep in mind that the case size does impact battery life. For example, the 51mm version offers up to 31 days in smartwatch mode compared to 10 days for the 42mm. So you’ll have to choose whether form factor or less frequent charging is most important to you. 

All sizes of the epix 2 Pro come with an LED flashlight that’s built into the side of the watch. It is surprisingly useful in day-to-day life but is also a game changer when navigating in the woods after dark. It does drain the battery faster, of course, but it is really nice to have. And the Red Shift Mode makes it easier to see the watch at night without blinding yourself or impacting your sleep cycle.

Best water filter: LifeStraw Peak Solo

Abby Ferguson

SEE IT

Specs

  • Weight: 4.48 ounces
  • Best for: Single-day hikes; weekend hikes; thru-hikes

Pros

  • Helps keep you hydrated safely
  • Clips easily to pack or belt
  • Can be fitted to a standard water bottle

Cons

  • Can only filter up to 2,000 liters of drinking water

Lifestaw’s smallest filter is also its most versatile and easiest to use, thanks to 28mm threading. That means you can attach the filter to a standard water bottle and drink through it like a straw. Or, you can use it as a squeeze filter to filter water into a different container. Using the Peak Solo, you can fill a 1L bottle in 20 seconds—that means more time hiking and less time corraling everyone’s water bottle to fill. If you don’t want to throw it in your backpack or glove compartment, it comes with a loop to attach a carabiner to clip to a keychain or pack. Our favorite feature is its effectiveness: it protects against It offers protection against 99.999999 percent of bacteria (including E.coli and Salmonella), 99.999 percent of parasites (including Giardia and Cryptosporidium), and 99.999 percent of microplastics. It also meets the US EPA and NSF P231 drinking water standards for removing bacteria and parasites. Read more of what we have to say about it.

Best insulated water bottle (with a filter): LifeStraw Go Stainless Steel Water Filter Bottle

LifeStraw

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Specs

  • Weight: 18-22 ounces
  • Best for: Single-day hikes

Pros

  • Included carabiner
  • Clean water anywhere
  • Dishwasher safe

Cons

  • Heavy

If you’d rather kill two birds with one stone, consider the LifeStraw Go Stainless Steel Water Filter Bottle. Its Titan Renew and membrane microfilters protect against parasites, microplastics, chlorine, organic chemical matter, dirt, sand, and cloudiness, while also improving taste. Specifically, LifeStraw’s membrane microfilter removes 99.999999% of bacteria, 99.999% of parasites, 99.999% of microplastics, silt, sand, and cloudiness. It meets NSF 42 standard for chlorine reduction and meets U.S. EPA & NSF P231 drinking water standards for the removal of bacteria and parasites. This means you can also have access to clean water internationally. The carbon filter costs around $10 to replace and the replacement two-stage membrane filter costs around $25. However, these filters only need replacing every 1,000 gallons—that’s a lot of lake water. Although it’s heavier than other insulated water bottles and only comes in one size, we think the benefits of clean water anywhere outweigh these cons.

Best budget: Coghlan’s 1985 Carabiner Compass

Coghlan’s

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Specs

  • Weight: .6 ounces
  • Best for: Single-day hikes; weekend hikes

Pros

  • Clips to belt or backpack
  • Body made of metal
  • Luminous directional markers

Cons

  • Doesn’t work if tilted more than eight degrees

A compass is one of the most important camping gadgets using some interesting-yet-simple tech. Compasses determine where “north” is thanks to its attraction to Earth’s southern magnetic pole, which is near its most northern geographic point. Magnets! They’re cool! Anyway, we love this simple and cheap compass for its durable aluminum construction and luminous directional marks to navigate in low light. Throw it on your pack or attach it to your belt loop to help determine where you’re going. It’s a tool you’ll most likely always bring with you on a trip, and you can’t beat its size and price.

What to consider when buying the best hiking gear

Knowing what you need to bring with you while hiking can prevent you from overpacking and having a heavy pack. Plus, it means that you won’t overspend on stuff you won’t use. Here’s what you should consider before clicking “add to cart.”

Hike length

If you’re going for a short hike or a single-day hike, you don’t need to bring what you would bring on a weekend hike or thru-hike. The longer the hike, the more stuff you’ll need to bring—and you’ll have to do some planning and locate your resupply points. A shorter hike is great for unwinding, while a longer, more strenuous hike can be mentally and physically taxing. Knowing how long you’ll be hiking will help you pack accordingly.

Pack weight

If you’re going on a thru-hike or hiking a long distance, you don’t want to wear an overpacked backpack that weighs you down, slows you down, and could make you tired faster. However, you don’t want to pack too light and miss some essentials. Hiking backpacks are built to distribute weight evenly, and many hiking-specific items are made with weight in mind. Knowing how much each item weighs can help you stay comfortable on your hike.

Experience level

If you’re a beginner hiker, you should at least have a good pair of shoes, something to carry essentials, a water bottle, and some sunscreen. If you’re a more experienced hiker going on longer trips, you can upgrade to a larger pack and incorporate hiking poles and water filters into your packing list. Which is to say, the more experienced you get, the more technical you can get gear-wise.

FAQs

Q: What gear should I have for hiking?

It depends. For a day hike that’s less than two hours, you should have a hiking pack; weather-appropriate clothing; food; water; navigation tools; a first aid kit; and a knife or a multitool. Longer hikes will require a tent, a headlamp, extra clothes, and some sort of firestarter.

Q: What are the best clothes to wear for hiking?

Fun fact: You don’t need technical clothes to hike. They help, but aren’t required. Wear comfortable and sturdy pants that help you move freely; a moisture-wicking top; a warm jacket for colder hikes; a rain jacket or one that’s waterproof and breathable; a brimmed hat or head covering to stop ticks and bugs from getting up in your business; sunglasses to keep the sun out of your eyes; and most importantly, study shoes.

Q: How do I pack a hiking backpack?

Although there is no right way to pack, a well-packed pack helps you reach items easier and will feel balanced on your hips. You want to keep mid-weight items at the very bottom, and heavy items right at mid back of the pack. Light items go in the middle front of your pack, and you can use the top lid for small essentials like your headlamp or first aid kit. Use the hip and side regions for on-hand essentials like your phone, snacks, or water bottle.

Final thoughts on the best hiking gear

Hiking is an excellent way to unplug and get some exercise while you’re at it. However, you want to be prepared—you don’t want to get lost in the woods. Remember to start small if you’re new to hiking—all you need is a durable pair of closed-toe shoes, a water bottle, an easy-to-follow trail, and something to hold your belongings to get started. You can invest in more technical gear as you hike more. After all, better to hike a short distance than never to have hiked at all.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best hiking gear of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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Don’t miss these last-minute deals on the best men’s watches from Seiko, Bulova, Fossil, and Citizen this Prime Day https://www.popsci.com/gear/prime-day-seiko-citizen-fossil-watch-deals-2023/ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 16:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=555436
Save hundreds on watches from Seiko, Citizen, Bulova, and more during Amazon Prime Day,

There's no time like the present to upgrade your wristwatch.

The post Don’t miss these last-minute deals on the best men’s watches from Seiko, Bulova, Fossil, and Citizen this Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Save hundreds on watches from Seiko, Citizen, Bulova, and more during Amazon Prime Day,

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Sure, you can check the time on your phone. But a watch is a timeless accessory that’s practical and can reflect your style far more than the latest iPhone. This Prime Day, Seiko, Citizen, Bulova, and other top brands have steeply discounted their men’s watches. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or just a dependable timepiece, now’s the time to take advantage of the savings. But hurry, as Prime Day is winding down and these deals won’t last.

All of these Prime Day deals require an active Amazon Prime Membership. You can sign up here for a free 30-day trial.

SEIKO Men’s SSG010 COUTURA Analog Display Japanese Quartz Two Tone Watch $455 (Was $650)

Seiko

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No battery? No problem. This innovative Seiko watch is powered by light energy that lasts six months at a time. This handsome timepiece comes in a stainless steel case and features a sapphire crystal and cabochon crown. Its time and calendar functions keep up to the second through radio signals. This watch also comes with a chronograph and is water resistant up to 330 feet. And it’s $195 off for a limited time. 

More Prime Day deals on men’s watches

Prefer a smartwatch to go with that iPhone? We’ve collected the best Apple Watch deals; click here!

More Prime Day deals

The post Don’t miss these last-minute deals on the best men’s watches from Seiko, Bulova, Fossil, and Citizen this Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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The latest, greatest Apple Watch Series 8 models are on sale for Amazon Prime Day https://www.popsci.com/gear/prime-day-apple-watch-deals-2023/ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 09:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=553709
Apple Watch Deals Prime Day 2023
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Apple's latest high-tech wearable is cheaper than ever for Prime Day.

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Apple Watch Deals Prime Day 2023
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Apple doesn’t discount hardware on its own site, but you can score a discount on several models of the Apple Watch on Amazon during Prime Day 2023. With these discounts, you can score the Apple Watch Series SE and Series 8 down to their lowest prices ever for a limited time. Apple makes some of the best smartwatches we’ve tested—remember, they can only be set up and paired with an iPhone—so don’t skip these deals.

All of these Prime Day deals require an active Amazon Prime Membership. You can sign up here for a free 30-day trial.

Apple Watch Series 8 [GPS 41mm] $279 (Was $389)

Apple

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The Apple Watch Series 8 is the company’s latest-generation smartwatch, and it’s an excellent choice for iPhone owners who want to track their fitness and check notifications without fishing their phone out of their pocket. It can also be used to tell the time, of course. The Series 8’s always-on display allows you to check its screen at a glance without lifting up your wrist, and its battery still lasts all day. The waterproof smartwatch has dedicated fitness modes to accurately track how many calories you’ve burned while exercising, whether you’re running, biking, swimming, doing a HIIT workout, etc. Sensors built into the watch can track your heart rate, sleep, and temperature in the background and alert you if something seems off. We highlighted the smaller-sized 41mm GPS version above, which should fit most wrists comfortably and doesn’t support costly cellular connectivity, but there’s a version to suit everybody and every body.

Here are some other Apple Watch Prime Day deals worth your eyeballs

Or are you in the mood for something more analog? We’ve gathered some of slickest men’s watch deals; click here!

The post The latest, greatest Apple Watch Series 8 models are on sale for Amazon Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Save up to $300 on Garmin watches with these Prime Day deals https://www.popsci.com/gear/prime-day-garmin-deals-2023/ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 18:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=555590
A selection of Garmin fitness watches on a white background
Abby Ferguson

These GPS-equipped smartwatches are adventure ready, and the prices leave you more money for GORP.

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A selection of Garmin fitness watches on a white background
Abby Ferguson

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Garmin makes some of the best fitness watches available. They feature advanced tech and health tracking capabilities along with full smartwatch abilities, giving you the best of both worlds. And if you are training for any sort of event, they are invaluable training tools. And this Prime Day, you can find outstanding savings on a handful of options, from beginner-level devices to watches for competitive athletes.

Garmin epix Gen 2 $699.99 (Was $999.99)

Garmin

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For adventure lovers, it’s hard to beat the Garmin epix watches. This particular version features premium white titanium and a bright AMOLED display, so it looks sleek even when you’re not on the trails. It promises up to 16 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, which is longer than most other adventure watches out there. And, as with most Garmin watches, it is built with a robust list of sensors for advanced health and performance measurements, accurate GPS tracking, and navigation tools with topographic maps.

More Garmin Prime Day deals

Prefer a smartwatch tailormade for an iPhone? We’ve collected the best Apple Watch deals; click here!

In the mood for something more analog? We’ve gathered some of the best men’s watch deals; click here!

The post Save up to $300 on Garmin watches with these Prime Day deals appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best headlamps for hiking of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-headlamps-for-hiking/ Sun, 09 Jul 2023 21:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=554434
A lineup of the best headlamps for hiking on a white background
Amanda Reed

Keep your hands free for essentials and your path illuminated for safety during your next hike.

The post The best headlamps for hiking of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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A lineup of the best headlamps for hiking on a white background
Amanda Reed

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Best overall A black BioLite headlamp on a blue and white background BioLite 800 Pro Headlamp
SEE IT

A hefty, powerful light in a sleek, bounce-free body.

Best for thru-hiking The PETZL, NAO + Programmable, Rechargeable Headlamp with 750 Lumens on a blue and white background PETZL NAO + Programmable Rechargeable Headlamp
SEE IT

Long hikes are no match for this portable headlamp.

Best budget An Energizer LED Headlamp Pro260 on a blue and white background. Energizer LED Headlamp Pro260
SEE IT

Spend less than $15 on a headlamp that punches above its weight.

Sometimes holding a flashlight just ain’t it—that’s why you need a headlamp made for hiking. These ultra-durable, long-lasting pieces of camping gear are absolutely essential when headed on your next big trek. Sure, your hikes may be planned for the day, but what about nighttime? No one wants to burrow through their pack for a beer, build a tent, or trip on a tree root in the dark. You’re also missing a chance to walk under the stars and pick out constellations or see the sunrise from a summit if you decide to only hike during the day. After you get home, you can even use your hiking headlamp as a reading lamp or light source when you have to walk the dog at night. So pull up your socks, soak yourself in bug spray, and snag one of the best headlamps for hiking.

How we chose the best headlamps for hiking

I consider myself at least 25% of an outdoors person, thanks to many years of Girl Scout camp, summer trips to my grandpa’s hunting cabin, and staying on campgrounds in the family camper. A headlamp was essential to hikes, night trips to the latrine, and even helped me out as I barreled through the Twilight book series when I couldn’t sleep (like all hot girls, I famously have trouble falling asleep). To narrow down our choices for the best headlamps for hiking, we looked at reviews and recommendations and threw some options on our big heads to test.

The best headlamps for hiking: Reviews & Recommendations

Your phone flashlight isn’t the best illumination source while trying to step over tree roots and rocks on a slightly muddy path. One of our choices should help you light the way, whether you’re walking to the fridge at night or traversing the great outdoors.

Best overall: BioLite 800 Pro Headlamp

BioLite

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Specs

  • Weight: 5.3 ounces
  • Lumens: 800 lumens
  • Battery life: 150 hours on low; 7 hours on high; 8 hours on reserve
  • Waterproof rating: IPX4

Pros

  • Rechargeable
  • Long-lasting
  • Red light option

Cons

  • Bit of a learning curve

We’re fans of BioLite for many reasons: we think one of these headlamps is an excellent camping gadget thanks to its internal tech, and they’re rechargeable. The lamp delivers 800 lumens for 150 hours on low; seven hours on high; and eight hours on reserve. A Run Forever cord lets you connect a power bank for even more runtime. A moisture-wicking headband keeps you dry and cool, and integrated electronics prevent slipping and bouncing. A push on the back gives you 30 seconds of max brightness, and Constant mode gives you full illumination sans auto-dimming. There’s a bit of a learning curve if you’ve never used a BioLite headlamp, but it’s one of the best on the market once you get over it. If 800 lumens seems like overkill, consider its lower lumen cousin, the BioLite 325 headlamp, which maxes out at—you guessed it—325 lumens.

Best ultralight: Nitecore NU25 UL

Nitecore

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Specs

  • Weight: 1.59 ounces
  • Lumens: 750 lumens
  • Battery life: 45 hours
  • Waterproof rating: IP66

Pros

  • Eight light modes
  • USB-C charging
  • Long light throw

Cons

  • Expensive

“Light as a feather, stiff as a board,” goes the old creepy slumber party game played many times by preteens huddled in a platform tent. At 1.59 ounces, this headlamp is not feather-light to a magical degree, but it is the lightest of all our choices on this list. It has a 210-foot light throw, meaning you can see the path ahead and then some. Its IP66 waterproof rating means it’s dust-tight and water-resistant against powerful jets. Four hundred lumens is the Goldilocks number of lumens (not too bright but not too dull), and Lock-out Mode ensures the lamp doesn’t turn out while in your pack. Options for spotlight, floodlight, and red light round out its most desirable modes. Despite being lightweight, it won’t levitate off your head, unlike Jenny after that particularly frightening “Light as a feather, stiff as a board” round.

Best for thru-hiking: PETZL NAO + Programmable Rechargeable Headlamp

Petzl

SEE IT

Specs

  • Weight: 6.3 ounces
  • Lumens: 750 lumens
  • Battery life: 70 hours
  • Waterproof rating: IPX4

Pros

  • App connectivity
  • Rechargeable
  • Top strap helps keep it on your head

Cons

  • IP rating could be better

This light looks right out of the Star Wars universe, and we think it would survive a stroll in Tatooine, thanks to its hefty stats. It’s IPX4 rated, meaning it won’t be affected by splashes in all directions and sweat—perfect for when you’re on a particularly grueling or rainy leg of your hike. Reactive Lighting technology automatically adapts to ambient light when the sun starts to rise. Bluetooth technology lets the light wirelessly connect to your smartphone and check burn time in real-time. Seven hundred fifty lumens gives you a powerful, strong beam, and a combo wide- and focused- beam gives you proximity lighting and long-range vision. A top strap keeps everything secure while you bike or hike.

Best for kids: Black Diamond Spot Lite 200 Headlamp

Black Diamond

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Specs

  • Weight: 1.9 ounces
  • Lumens: 200
  • Battery life: Not rechargeable, uses 2 AAA batteries
  • Waterproof rating: IPX8

Pros

  • Great IP rating
  • Ergonomic
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Non-rechargeable

You don’t need an entire shopping spree at your local camping store outpost to get a high-powered, long-lasting headlamp for your camper who is about to head out on their first camp trip ever. And even if you’re not shopping for a kid, this option is great to put into your glove box in case of an emergency. Two hundred lumens is a great amount of light for walking back to camp after dinner in the dining hall, and an IPX8 rating means it will survive a drop in the puddle. Its many light settings include full strength in proximity and distance modes, dimming, strobe, red night-vision, and lock mode. If you’re shopping for an older kid growing into their outdoorsy own, we also have other recommendations for Scout-friendly headlamps. However, with these specs, we think this model will grow with them as they take on harder hikes and higher climbs.

Best budget: Energizer LED Headlamp Pro260

Energizer

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Specs

  • Weight: 3.52 ounces
  • Lumens: 260 lumens
  • Battery life: 35 hours in low mode
  • Waterproof rating: IPX4

Pros

  • Lots of light settings
  • Long light throw
  • Cheap

Cons

  • Non-rechargeable

Don’t discount Energizer! They’re our best budget pick in this headlamp story, and now they’ve taken the spot again in this one. It illuminates up to 260 feet, which is remarkable considering the price. It comes with an adjustable strap, pivoting head, and compact design, with a water-resistant IPX4-rated body. Seven light modes, including red light mode, let it run with the more expensive choices on this list; you even change the light intensity from 100%-10% and turn your headlamp off immediately without clicking through additional cycles. Although it’s non-rechargeable, it comes with three AAA batteries, meaning you don’t have to root through your battery bag.

What to consider when buying the best headlamps for hiking

From different difficulties to varying experience levels, no two hikes are the same. Same with the gear your should pack for your excursions. Here is what you should think about before snagging a new headlamp.

Duration of hike

Are you going on a half-day jaunt? Or are you using your headlamp for a serious months-long hike on the Appalachian Trail? A shorter hike rated Easiest or Modest means you can get away with something that runs on batteries, is less impact-resistant, and has shorter battery life. Anything considered Moderately Strenuous, Strenuous, or Very Strenuous means you may want to consider one that’s rechargeable (which you can recharge while staying at a trek-in lodge) and very long battery life.

If your hike is longer and you’ll chill out at camp for the night instead of a trek-in lodge, a headlamp is a great way to illuminate the entire tent and keep your hands free as you build a fire or search for kindling.

Weather conditions

If it’s going to be wet and rainy, consider upgrading to a headlamp that has a good IP Rating, which indicates its Ingress Protection against solids and liquids. IPX4 should be the minimum IP rating you consider for your headlamp, and hikers who are going to traverse more extreme conditions should consider something that’s IPX7 or IPX8 rated.

FAQs

Q: How many lumens do I need for a headlamp for hiking?

You should look for a headlamp that has at least 300 lumens if you’re using it to hike. Anything less is better for walking the dog at night or for novice young hikers tagging along with their more-experienced parents.

Q: Is white or yellow light better for hiking at night?

Technically, neither. Red light is actually the best light for hiking at night since it affects your night vision less compared to white or yellow light. It’s a matter of preference otherwise.

Q: How important is a headlamp in hiking?

We think it’s very important to bring a headlamp when hiking. It keeps your hands free and makes you more agile and efficient. But, if you’re going on an overnight camping trip, a headlamp is a must-have—no one wants to set up a tent in the dark.

Final thoughts on the best headlamps for hiking

Headlamps for hiking are made to illuminate your path as you enjoy a lovely traverse under a beautiful starry night. They also have many uses when the hike ends and you’re back at home—use time after sundown to get through your “to be read” pile, banish dark dog walks into the light, and wear one to see what the heck is going on under the hood of your car. Tell flashlights to take a hike after you snag one of the best headlamps for hiking.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best headlamps for hiking of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best hiking watches for 2023, tested and reviewed https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-hiking-watches/ Wed, 28 Jun 2023 21:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=551607
Four of the best hiking watches sliced together
Abby Ferguson

Get prepared for your next adventure by strapping on one of these impressive hiking watches before you go out (and back).

The post The best hiking watches for 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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Four of the best hiking watches sliced together
Abby Ferguson

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall Garmin epix 2 Pro on a wrist in front of a trail through a forest Garmin epix 2 Pro
SEE IT

It’s a well-rounded watch with impressive battery life and endless hiking features.

Best smartwatch Apple Watch Ultra with an orange alpine loop showing the compass face at the Theodore Roosevelt Island marsh Apple Watch Ultra
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This rugged smartwatch provides cell connectivity and sleek styling.

Best budget Amazfit T-Rex 2 hiking watch on a wrist in front of a trail through the woods Amazfit T-Rex 2
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A budget-friendly price doesn’t result in fewer features on this watch.

Hiking watches are useful and important tools for those who spend time hitting the trails. At a minimum, a hiking watch should allow you to keep track of the time of day, how long you’ve been out, and how long you might have till sundown. Ideally, it should also provide altitude, barometer, and compass functions. More advanced watches for hiking may also offer various safety features, advanced navigation tools, energy expenditure and endurance estimations, and smartwatch functionality. No matter what, the best hiking watches will help keep you safe on your adventures and be able to handle whatever you throw at them. 

How we chose the best hiking watches

As an avid hiker and trail runner since a young age, I’ve spent my fair share of time in the woods and have learned what is important to have with you in those situations. In addition, other members of our staff have been known to plan months-long trips around opportunities to explore the National Park System, and have taken their fair share of adventure accessories with them. This insight, along with a mix of hands-on use, reviews, and brand reputation, guided the selection of hiking watches included here. In making our selections, we looked at key features like compass and altimeter functions, GPS, connectivity options, safety features, battery life, and more. 

The best hiking watches: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether you are hitting a short local trail or tackling an epic thru-hike, these watches will help you keep track of your achievements and stay safe on the safest, most efficient route. 

Best overall: Garmin epix 2 Pro

Abby Ferguson

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Specs

  • Case diameter: 42mm (also available in 47mm and 51mm sizes)
  • Weight: 2.2 ounces (42mm version)
  • Display type: AMOLED
  • Battery life: Up to 10 days in smartwatch mode (42mm version)
  • Sensors: Multi-band GPS, heart rate, barometric altimeter, compass, gyroscope, accelerometer, thermometer, ambient light, pulse oximeter 

Pros

  • Available in three different sizes and lots of colors
  • Ruggedly built 
  • Includes a bright flashlight
  • Lots of safety features and health tracking

Cons

  • A nearly endless list of settings and customizations can be overwhelming

Garmin’s epix watch has been one of the standards for hiking, trail running, and ultra-marathons since its initial release in 2015. The new epix 2 Pro is even more advanced and capable, offering a nearly endless list of features, sensors, and settings. For starters, it comes loaded with a plethora of activities to track, from the basics like hiking, running, and cycling to strength training, surfing, hunting, and more. You’ll also get lots of training tools to help improve your fitness, including Endurance Score, Training Status, Recovery Status, VO2 Max measurements, and more.

As with most Garmin multisport watches, the epix Pro gets a robust list of sensors for health and activity tracking. It offers the essentials for hiking, including a barometric altimeter, compass, and GPS. But it also provides advanced multi-frequency positioning for accurate location data, which allows you to use the watch for navigation purposes. You can even upload specific courses to keep you on track during events. And it offers weather maps to allow you to check the radar for precipitation, cloud cover, wind, and temperature. Something we love about top-of-the-line Garmin watches (this one, as well as the fēnix 7 Pro below) is maps. Loads of preloaded maps, which look crisp and detailed on the always-on AMOLED screen (available under scratch-resistant sapphire glass or slightly-less-resilient Corning Gorilla Glass, if you want to save $100).

One thing we especially love about this adventure watch is that it is available in three different case sizes—42mm, 47mm, or 51mm—making it more suitable for a wider variety of wrists. It’s important to keep in mind that the case size does impact battery life. For example, the 51mm version offers up to 31 days in smartwatch mode compared to 10 days for the 42mm. So you’ll have to choose whether form factor or less frequent charging is most important to you. 

All sizes of the epix 2 Pro come with an LED flashlight that’s built into the side of the watch. It is surprisingly useful in day-to-day life but is also a game changer when navigating in the woods after dark. It does drain the battery faster, of course, but it is really nice to have. And the Red Shift Mode makes it easier to see the watch at night without blinding yourself or impacting your sleep cycle.

Best smartwatch: Apple Watch Ultra

Tony Ware

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Specs

  • Case diameter: 49mm
  • Weight: 2.2 ounces
  • Display type: Always-On Retina LTPO OLED
  • Battery life: Up to 36 hours
  • Sensors: Multi-band GPS, compass, altimeter, pulse oximeter, heart rate, accelerometer, gyroscope, ambient light, water temperature, depth gauge 

Pros

  • Built with cellular connectivity
  • Larger screen is useful
  • Attractive styling
  • Accurate GPS with navigation tools

Cons

  • Battery life isn’t great
  • Training tools are lacking

For many, a dedicated and highly specific sport watch is not the best option. The Apple Watch Ultra offers an easily approachable combination of smartwatch functionality and fitness tools in upgraded Apple Watch hardware. It comes standard with LTE connectivity, and thanks to the dual speakers and three-mic array, you’ll be able to take calls right from your wrist as long as you have cell reception (and pay for compatible coverage). That means you can leave your phone behind on hikes and still have a way to call for help if you need to. 

As a smartwatch, it will blend seamlessly with your day-to-day style while also holding up to your big adventures, thanks to the rugged build quality. The watch’s face features sapphire glass to prevent scratches, and the titanium case is IP6X rated for dust resistance, water resistant to 330 feet, and tested to MIL-STD 810H standards.

The Apple Watch Ultra offers plenty of sensors to capture health data throughout the day as well as when you are tracking a hike. The large display makes it easy to see your information at a glance and navigate through menus. It utilizes dual-frequency L1 and L5 GPS, which results in highly accurate location information. That means you’ll get precise distance measurements and be able to use the watch for navigation as well. 

While the promised 36-hour battery life of the Apple Watch Ultra is longer than Apple’s other watches, it doesn’t come close to what the likes of Garmin and Amazfit are capable of. And it doesn’t offer as many training tools as Garmin watches. But if you want a watch that is for more casual hiking and daily wearing, the Apple Watch Ultra is a great choice.

Best for backpacking: Garmin fēnix 7 Pro

Scott Ferguson

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Specs

  • Case diameter: 42mm, 47mm, 51mm 
  • Weight: 2.6 ounces
  • Display type: Sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel
  • Battery life: Up to 18 days or 22 days with solar in smartwatch mode
  • Sensors: Multi-band GPS, heart rate, barometric altimeter, compass, gyroscope, accelerometer, thermometer, ambient light, pulse oximeter

Pros

  • Solar charging extends battery life
  • Available in three sizes
  • Accurate health and training data
  • Advanced map features
  • Built-in LED flashlight

Cons

  • Some may prefer an AMOLED display

Garmin’s fēnix 7 Pro is nearly identical to the epix Pro above, with all the same health and fitness tracking features. You can easily keep track of your training and recovery status, track all your activities, and receive recommendations on how to improve. It even provides a Hill Score for working on how you’ll handle elevation changes, a key skill for many backpacking trips. And you get access to detailed maps, including weather map overlays and relief shading on topographical maps for better navigation.

What makes the fēnix 7 Pro different is the sunlight-visible, memory-in-pixel (MIP) display instead of the colorful AMOLED found in the epix. It’s not bright and colorful and crisply detailed like the epix display, but it is plenty visible on even the sunniest days. And it also doesn’t pull near as much battery, providing longer life between charges than the epix 2 Pro. 

Extending battery life even more is the solar-charging capabilities of the fēnix 7 Pro. With solar charging, the 47mm watch promises up to 12 days in Max Battery GPS mode. In Expedition GPS mode, Garmin says you can get up to 74 days with solar (Garmin’s solar-charging numbers assume all-day wear with 3 hours per day outside in 50,000 lux conditions). 

If you are on a backpacking trip, any extra boost to battery life is appreciated. And, provided the weather conditions are right, you’ll easily hit the solar-charging requirements during your trip. You may even be able to use more precise GPS settings as a result. As with the epix 2 Pro, the different case sizes offer different battery life estimates, so if battery life is critical to you, you may want to go with the 51mm size. 

Best basic: Casio G-Shock DWH5600-1

Casio

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Specs

  • Case dimensions: 2 x 1.7 x 0.7 inches
  • Weight: 2 ounces
  • Display type: Memory-in-pixel
  • Battery life: 35 hours with activity functions
  • Sensors: Heart rate, accelerometer, pulse oximeter

Pros

  • Solar charging
  • Lightweight and classic design
  • Nearly indestructible with classic G-Shock styling
  • Includes basic activity tracking

Cons

  • Relies on a phone’s GPS

The other watches selected in this buying guide are incredibly feature-rich. But sometimes you want just a basic watch for hiking. The Casio G-Shock DWH5600-1 fits the bill. This watch is an update on the square G-Shock that was first released 40 years ago and looks remarkably similar to that classic watch. It is just as indestructible, with a shock-resistant construction and a whopping 656-foot water resistance

Despite similar looks, the newly updated received some modern upgrades. For example, it now features a high-definition memory-in-pixel display that is highly visible even in bright light. And it sports an optical heart rate sensor, accelerometer, and pulse oximeter. Casio teamed up with Polar to offer workout analysis, sleep data, and breath exercises. 

Although you can track your activities, this basic hiking watch does not offer built-in GPS. Instead, it relies on your phone’s GPS for location data, which is not as accurate as watch-based options. There’s also no altimeter or compass, so it won’t offer navigation help. But, it offers just enough for those who want something simple and rugged with the ability to keep track of their hikes.

Best solar-powered: Garmin Instinct 2X Solar

Abby Ferguson

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Specs

  • Case diameter: 50mm
  • Weight: 2.4 ounces
  • Display type: Monochrome, sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel
  • Battery life: 40 days or unlimited with solar in smartwatch mode
  • Sensors: Multi-band GPS, heart rate, barometric altimeter, compass, gyroscope, accelerometer, thermometer, and pulse oximeter 

Pros

  • Built-in flashlight
  • Seriously impressive battery life with solar charging
  • Plenty of activity and healthy tracking features
  • Rugged build 

Cons

  • Large size isn’t ideal for all wrists
  • Low-resolution display isn’t for everyone

Garmin’s Instinct 2X Solar is one of the best hiking watches for many reasons but foremost is the absurd battery life. With the most accurate GPS settings, you should be able to get up to 27 hours without solar or 36 hours with 3 hours per day outside in 50,000 lux conditions. Or, if you are on a long expedition, you could get unlimited battery life using Expedition GPS with enough sun or 60 days if it’s a winter expedition.

The Instinct 2X is a large watch and, as a result, is best suited for bigger wrists. If you want something smaller, the Instinct 2 Solar also offers impressive battery life in 40mm and 45mm case sizes. But the 2X is fitted with improved Power Glass, resulting in 50 percent more energy from the sun compared to the other Instinct models. That’s a significant difference, especially if you are tackling longer hikes. 

On top of the battery life, the watch is extremely rugged. It’s tested to U.S military 810 standards for thermal, shock, and water resistance and is water-rated to 328 feet. The LED flashlight is both convenient and adds a layer of safety when in the backcountry. And the Instinct 2X features Garmin’s typical advanced fitness and health tracking features so you can successfully prepare for your hikes. You’ll also be able to take advantage of advanced navigation tools. And the smartwatch functionality makes this GPS watch ideal for daily life as well.

Miss ole-fashioned analog watch hands? The Garmin Instinct Crossover Solar has you covered.

Best budget: Amazfit T-Rex 2

Abby Ferguson

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Specs

  • Case diameter: 47mm
  • Weight: 2.3 ounces
  • Display type: AMOLED
  • Battery life: Up to 24 days with typical usage
  • Sensors: GPS, pulse oximeter, heart rate, compass, barometric altimeter, accelerometer, gyroscope, ambient light

Pros

  • Lots of features for the price
  • Excellent battery life
  • Vibrant display
  • Rugged build

Cons

  • Very bulky

While most hiking watches get quite expensive, you don’t have to break the bank for an impressive option. Amazfit makes a variety of budget watches that are more than capable, but its T-Rex 2 is especially impressive for the price. It’s extremely rugged, meeting MIL-STD-810G standards for withstanding extreme temperatures and environments. That includes water resistance to 328 feet, 158 degrees F heat resistance, -40 degrees cold resistance, and 96H salt spray resistance. 

Besides the rugged build, this outdoor watch offers dual-band positioning and support for six positioning systems. It enables you to import route files and navigate in real time on the watch. It promises up to 24 days of battery life with normal use or 45 days in battery saver mode, which is quite a bit longer than the Apple Watch Ultra. 

Despite the budget-friendly price, the T-Rex 2 offers really advanced training tools and health tracking. It features more than 150 built-in sport modes and can connect to a heart rate strap if you want the most accurate measurements. It automatically recognizes 15 different types of strength training exercises and can count reps for you. It offers training metrics like VO2 Max measurements and training effect information, and you can build training templates to guide and improve your performance. 

Features to consider when shopping for hiking watches

While any watch that tells the time could be considered a hiking watch, the best hiking watches will offer more advanced features to help you track your hikes and health, improve performance, and stay safe in the wilderness. All those specs can get confusing and overwhelming, though. Here are some of the key features to pay attention to when shopping for an adventure watch:

Battery life

How long a watch battery lasts is a crucial factor when selecting a hiking watch. That’s especially true if you want to take on any long hikes or treks. At a minimum, it is frustrating and annoying when your watch dies out on the trail. But it can result in dangerous consequences as well, especially if you are relying on the watch for navigation or weather alerts. 

Watch manufacturers will list battery life for essentially best-case, minimal-use scenarios, which is important to keep in mind. If all you plan on doing is short hikes, you can get away with a watch that has a battery life of only a few days (just be sure to charge it before your hike). But if you want to tackle long hikes or even multi-day exertions, look for a watch that promises battery life in months, not days. You may also benefit from solar charging and an option that offers lots of customizability in terms of GPS and other features that drain battery life. 

Build quality

Hiking can put you in some rugged situations, so it’s important your watch can withstand that. The watch face should be made of durable materials to prevent scratching, or you’ll soon be unable to read it. Sapphire glass is one of the most durable options, though Corning Gorilla Glass is another tough option. 

Beyond the surface of the watch, you’ll also want to make sure that the case is built for adventure. A hiking watch should be water-resistant in case you get caught in a downpour or fall in a river. And it should be able to handle dust, bumps, and knocks. Military testing is a good sign that the company designed the watch for tough environments, but Ingress Protection (IP) ratings are also useful in judging how robust a watch will be. 

Sensors

While you don’t necessarily need a bunch of sensors on your hiking watch, they can certainly help. ABC (altimeter, barometer, and compass) functions are the most basic for navigating the backcountry. These can alert you to important weather changes, help you keep an eye on the altitude, and give you rudimentary navigation tools. For more advanced navigation, built-in GPS is the way to go. That’s especially true if you won’t have cell reception to access maps on your phone while hiking. 

Beyond those, there are some health-related sensors that you may find beneficial. A heart rate sensor and pulse oximeter can help keep an eye on your health and performance. They can keep you from overexerting yourself, which is especially useful on longer hikes where it’s important to keep a steady, even pace. Plus, they allow for advanced performance measurements that assist in training to improve your performance, helping you build up to bigger hikes. 

Size

A watch doesn’t do much good if it isn’t comfortable enough to wear. The size of the case plays a big role in how comfortable the watch is, so it’s important to pay attention to this before purchasing a hiking watch. A big watch may provide a larger screen, but it can feel annoying on small wrists or even limit movement. Generally speaking, a 50mm case size is considered quite large, while 42mm is more suitable for small wrists. 

If provided, you’ll also want to look at the thickness of the watch, the weight, and the band length. Thick watches can get annoying because they don’t fit under jackets or base layers very well. And you’ll need a band that fits your wrist without excessive amounts of leftover material. 

Additional features

Beyond the necessities, some watches will offer extras that could make hiking even more enjoyable or safer for you. That could be built-in weather apps, maps, and safety features. Also, if you want to use your hiking watch for more than just hikes, activity tracking, and smartwatch functions may be ideal as well. 

FAQs

Q: Are smartwatches good for hiking?

Yes, most smartwatches are good for hiking. Of course, it depends on the particular smartwatch, the information you would like to capture from your hike, and what type of hiking you will be tackling. Longer hikes will require superb battery life or specific modes for trekking, which many basic smartwatches do not provide. But advanced smartwatches, such as the Garmin epix 2 Pro, will offer everything you need in a watch for hiking plus full smartwatch capabilities. 

Q: Do I need a GPS watch for hiking?

You don’t necessarily need GPS, but it can certainly be useful. GPS does drain a watch battery faster, but it can be crucial for navigation if you happen to get lost. Having the safety net of accurate GPS in your watch can give you peace of mind at best and save your life in worse-case scenarios.

Q: Are hiking watches water-resistant?

A quality hiking watch should be water-resistant. You never know when you’ll get caught in a freak rainstorm or need to dip your hand in a river to fill up a water bottle. Your watch should be able to withstand the elements if you are going to be in the backcountry with it. 

Q: Can hiking watches be used offline?

Yes, hiking watches can be used offline. Of course, if you use a hiking watch that is also a smartwatch and are in an area without cell reception, you won’t be able to get notifications or use those aspects of the watch. But the built-in GPS and all other features of the watch will be able to function without internet or cell service. 

Q: Are hiking watches worth it?

Hiking watches are definitely worth it if you are spending much time on the trails, especially rugged trails off the beaten path. Even easy hikes have inherent risks associated with them. Knowing how the distance you’ve been thinking, how long you’ve been out, and what the weather may be doing based on barometric pressure are all key to mitigating that risk and returning home safely. 

Final thoughts on the best hiking watches

As with most things, there isn’t necessarily a one size fits all approach to the best hiking watch. Someone who is going on casual day hikes through a local park will likely have different needs and wants in a watch than someone seeking out week-long treks through the wilderness. No matter what your style, though, one of the watches in this guide should meet your needs and expectations.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best hiking watches for 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best hybrid smartwatches of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-hybrid-smartwatches/ Thu, 11 Aug 2022 15:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=461226
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Abby Ferguson

Get the best of both worlds with these timepieces.

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Best overall Withings ScanWatch stylish hybrid smartwatch Withings ScanWatch
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The Withings ScanWatch is stylish and comes with a full range of health-focused features.

Best for iPhone Skagen Jorn 38MM Gen 6 Hybrid Smartwatch Skagen Jorn Hybrid HR
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The Skagen Jorn Hybrid is one of the most visually appealing in the space, and its e-ink display is a one-of-a-kind feature.

Best with heart rate monitor Garmin Vivomove hybrid smartwatch Garmin Vivomove HR
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The Garmin Vivomove HR is a sporty hybrid smartwatch with a nice array of features for fitness junkies.

Hybrid smartwatches are one of the most useful pieces of wearable tech out there. The chunky bodies and digital faces of the sensor-packed Apple Watches and Fitbits of the world don’t appeal to everyone’s sensibilities. So while the biggest tech companies build watches that emphasize the tech, many brands have integrated some of the simplest, most useful smartwatch features into conventional timepieces. The average hybrid smartwatch features analog hour and minute arms, with a small screen or screens underneath to show stats like heart rate and tracked steps. For many people, the best hybrid smartwatches provide a good balance between a watch that will give you the fitness tracking and heart rate monitor you desire without looking out of place in a professional workplace.

How we chose the best hybrid smartwatches

I’ve been writing about tech for nearly a decade for publications such as PC Gamer and Input, among others, so I know how to discern between the next big thing and the next big bust. I’m also a watch enthusiast who has owned more than my fair share of smart and traditional timepieces over the years. To determine these recommendations, I consulted technical specs and tests conducted by experts and consumer reviews to find the best hybrid smartwatches for all kinds of people.

The best hybrid smartwatches: Reviews & Recommendations

If you’d like a little help jumpstarting your search, we’ve selected the best hybrid smartwatches for all kinds of users. Whether you want to shell out a bundle for a high-end watch with all the bells and whistles or buy a cheaper model with just the essentials, we have you covered.

Best overall: Withings ScanWatch

Withings

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Specs

  • Size: 38mm or 42mm
  • Heart monitor: Yes, with oxygen levels
  • Sleep tracking: Yes
  • Activity tracking: Yes, with altimeter
  • Water resistance: 50m
  • Battery life: 30 days

Pros

  • Great feature set
  • Water resistance
  • Comes in multiple sizes

Cons

  • A little expensive

French health tech manufacturer Withings specializes in devices that monitor your body, including smart scales, thermometers, and blood pressure monitors. Their flagship watch, the ScanWatch, integrates deep health-tracking functionality into a simple, elegant hybrid timepiece. Going beyond basic step and heart rate tracking, it features an altimeter to track vertical movements, such as climbing stairs, and a pulse oximeter for blood oxygen (SpO2) tracking. Its 30-day battery life makes it one of the longest-lasting watches. It’s also waterproof and certified for up to 50 meters (or 5 atmospheres) of water pressure. 

It also provides lots of room for you to pick a watch that fits your style. It comes in two sizes, and Withings offers more colors and styles than many competitors. In plain black with metal hardware, it’s a simple and elegant everyday accessory. All of that function pushes the ScanWatch’s price higher than many of our other picks, but it offers a strong blend of style and tech substance.

Best for iPhone: Skagen Jorn Hybrid HR

Skagen

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Specs

  • Size: 38mm or 42mm
  • Heart monitor: Yes
  • Sleep tracking: Yes
  • Activity tracking: Yes
  • Water resistance: “Water Resistant”
  • Battery life: 14 days+

Pros

  • Multiple size options
  • Stylish design
  • Decent features

Cons

  • E-ink display may not appeal to everyone
  • Interface can be confusing

Skagen is known for their fashion watches, and the Jorn brings a very appealing “Bauhaus”-like sensibility—a cleanly geometric German retro-modern aesthetic—to the hybrid smartwatch market. Its signature feature is a sharp e-ink display, akin to what you’d find in an Amazon Kindle Paperwhite or the classic Pebble Watch. It shows your steps, heart rate, and other stats with chronograph-like icons that perfectly match the watch’s look. The unique design and controls aren’t as intuitive as other watches, but it’s a small price to pay for such attention to detail.

If you’re a fan of buttons, the Jorn has three for you to play with rather than the traditional “hold/tap” design of the Apple Watch, and its app integration and customizability have received high marks from reviewers. As a whole, the Skagen Jorn is a strong hybrid smartwatch for those who care more about the watch and its aesthetics than smart features. However, it works very well for what it is.

Best heart rate monitor: Garmin Vivomove HR

Garmin

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Specs

  • Size: 40mm, 43mm
  • Heart monitor: Yes, with oxygen levels
  • Sleep tracking: Yes
  • Activity tracking: Yes
  • Water resistance: 50m
  • Battery life: 5 days (smart mode), 14+ days (watch only)

Pros

  • Good fitness features
  • Many color options
  • Easy to read

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Short battery life for smart mode

Though it is not specifically a “fitness watch,” the Garmin Vivomove HR delivers more fitness-driven features than most hybrid smartwatches, making it a notable choice for people who specifically want one to monitor their heart discreetly. It has dedicated stress tracking and relaxation timers so you can track your vitals in any situation, as well as SpO2 tracking. It falters a bit on battery life compared to other hybrids, especially when you use the smart features, though.

The design of its face is a bit simple compared to our other picks, and it’s less customizable than most, but it does have that true “Bauhaus” look. While it comes in multiple sizes and many colors, we found that many styles and colors are much harder to come by in the 40mm “small/medium” size. If you’re a fitness enthusiast, the Vivomove has the edge over competitors thanks to its stress monitor and relaxation timers. But its high price limits its appeal compared to other watches in the space.

Best for small wrists: Fossil Women’s Monroe Hybrid

Fossil

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Specs

  • Size: 38mm
  • Heart monitor: Yes
  • Sleep tracking: Yes
  • Activity tracking: Yes
  • Water resistance: 30m
  • Battery life: 14+ days

Pros

  • Fits any wrist
  • The feminine silhouette isn’t common among smartwatches
  • Competitive feature-set

Cons

  • No signature feature

Look, there’s no delicate way to put this: The overwhelming majority of smartwatches out there feature masculine (or at least masculine-leaning) designs. Hybrid watches, in particular, are often based on larger “men’s” watches. If you’re looking for something feminine rather than simply picking a smaller case size, Fossil’s Monroe is definitely the way to go. The mid-sized 38mm case will fit almost any wrist, unlike the 42mm (or even bigger) smartwatches out there.

It doesn’t skimp on the features either, with notification support, activity tracking, a heart rate monitor, and more. The only real downside to this hybrid smartwatch is that it lacks a unique tech-driven feature. The Monroe is purely a style play, but since feminine hybrid watches are fairly rare, that is a signature feature unto itself.

Best for adventures: Garmin Instinct Crossover Solar

Garmin

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Specs

  • Size: 38mm
  • Heart monitor: Yes
  • Sleep tracking: Yes
  • Activity tracking: Yes
  • Water resistance: 30m
  • Battery life: 70 days in smartwatch mode, 31 hours in GPS mode

Pros

  • Advanced performance metrics
  • Superb battery life with solar charging
  • Navigation tools
  • Luminescent analog watch hands

Cons

  • Watch hands break up the screen

Most hybrid smartwatches tend toward the watch spectrum’s fashion end. They may offer some health tracking features but aren’t built to withstand adventures. The Garmin Instinct Crossover, however, offers robust fitness watch features in a hybrid body, making it a fantastic hiking watch or companion for the adventurous soul. As the name suggests, the Instinct Crossover Solar has much in common with the Instinct Solar. It’s a rugged watch—water-rated to 10 ATM and thermal- and shock-resistant—so you don’t need to worry when you’re out in the mountains or swimming in the ocean.

The Instinct Crossover Solar offers Garmin’s full suite of fitness features, including VO2 Max measurement, workout suggestions, training tools and metrics, and an expansive list of activities to track. And it provides impressive battery life with plenty of customization to get the right balance for your life. The battery life is unlimited if you put the watch in battery saver mode and get at least 3 hours per day outside in 50,000 lux conditions. With GPS mode, you can get up to 31 hours with solar or up to 553 hours in Max Battery GPS Mode with solar.

The display of the watch is a monochrome, transflective memory-in-pixel design that is easily visible in sunlight. On top of the display sit the luminescent analog watch hands, making it easy to see even at night. And it utilizes RevoDrive technology to keep the time accurate no matter what. It’s an impressive balance of analog functionality with full smartwatch and fitness watch features.

Best budget: Withings Steel HR

Withings

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Specs

  • Size: 36mm, 40mm
  • Heart monitor: Yes
  • Sleep tracking: Yes
  • Activity tracking: Yes, with multi-sport support
  • Water resistance: 50m
  • Battery life: 25 days

Pros

  • Competitive price
  • Visually appealing
  • Good battery life

Cons

  • Some may prefer a larger case size
  • Older model

The Withings Steel HR is an older, simpler hybrid smartwatch, but one that still holds up. For less than $200, the Steel HR offers only slightly less functionality than our top pick for $100 less. More importantly, the Steel is rated for 50m of water resistance, which means you can take it in the pool or the ocean without worrying about it. It offers great battery life—25 days—and features multi-sport tracking to record more accurate activity-specific health data.

Though many of the watches on this list feature a minimalist style, the Steel features what may be the simplest look. I quite like its two-dial configuration. However, with a 40mm case, it’s smaller than most of the picks on our list and may not be a great fit for people with very large wrists.

Things to consider before buying a hybrid smartwatch

Picking a hybrid smartwatch over a conventional smartwatch or fitness tracker is, more often than not, rooted in taste. You want some smart features, but not at the expense of how a classic wristwatch looks and feels on your wrist. In keeping with that, most hybrid smartwatches have a relatively standardized set of smart features, including step tracking, sleep tracking, and more. Some features, like surfacing notifications from your phone, aren’t on every model, though, so it does pay to think about how “smart” you want your watch to be.

It’s all about the features

Though hybrid smartwatches don’t vary as much in feature set and price range as other tech, like Apple watches or their alternatives, you should remember that they aren’t all identical. Most hybrid smartwatches offer some degree of fitness tracking, sleep tracking, and water resistance. Certain features—like GPS integration, altimeters, blood oxygen (SpO2) tracking, and 100-meter water resistance—tend to be reserved for more expensive models. 

High-end hybrids also tend to have better battery life, though even the least expensive of the bunch last longer than more tech-forward smartwatches like the Apple Watch Series 8 and Samsung Galaxy Watch5. The average battery life of a hybrid smartwatch is around two weeks, though some go as high as 25 to 30 days without a charge.

Aesthetics are everything

There are two main reasons to buy a hybrid smartwatch: less frequent charging and sheer aesthetics. As a watch enthusiast, I strongly prefer the round face and analog movement of a hybrid over the blocky silhouette of a Fitbit. As such, you should really consider the look and feel of the hybrid you want before you buy it. 

You should also measure your wrist before making any purchase. Most hybrid watches have a case diameter of 42mm, which is quite large on those of us with smaller wrists. If you have a wrist size of 6.5 inches or less, you will probably want to invest in a smaller 38mm model instead.

FAQs

Q: Can I buy refurbished smartwatches?

Absolutely, many of our recommended hybrid smartwatches can be purchased refurbished from Amazon, eBay, or other resellers for a reduced price. For example, you can buy a refurbished Garmin Vivomove for less than $100 right now. We’ve added a link to at least one used purchasing option for each watch on this list.

Q: Can I use a hybrid smartwatch without a phone?

Hybrid smartwatches can tell time perfectly fine without syncing to a smartphone, as they are watches first and foremost. Their smart features—heart rate monitoring, step tracking, and so on—require one, though.

Q: How do I charge a hybrid watch?

Most hybrid smartwatches charge via magnetic USB cables that you plug into a wall, similar to traditional smartwatch chargers.

Q: Can I text on a hybrid smartwatch?

Many hybrid smartwatches either display your texts or at least show you a notification when you receive one on your phone. Most, however, do not allow you to respond. If texting via your watch is a priority, you should consider buying an Apple or Android Wear watch.

Final thoughts on the best hybrid smartwatches

As with many products out there, these hybrid smartwatches ultimately have quite a lot in common with each other. Still, the devil is in the details. If you’re looking for top-of-the-line features, you may decide to go for a more traditional smartwatch instead. However, if aesthetics are what you’re looking for, all of these watches will have you well-covered. Besides, who wants to charge their watch every day, anyway?

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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Up your summer fitness with $200 off select Garmin smartwatches https://www.popsci.com/gear/garmin-smartwatch-sale/ Thu, 08 Jun 2023 15:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=546970
A selection of Garmin smartwatches and devices on a white background
Abby Ferguson

You can update or upgrade with new software and savings on the Garmin Forerunner, epix, Instinct, Approach, and more.

The post Up your summer fitness with $200 off select Garmin smartwatches appeared first on Popular Science.

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A selection of Garmin smartwatches and devices on a white background
Abby Ferguson

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Garmin has been at the top of the fitness watch game for some time, making a range of smartwatches for beginners and pro-level athletes alike. Though each line of watches is tailored to a specific event—such as running, golf, flying, or diving—they can essentially do it all for the multisport enthusiasts and endurance athletes out there. Right now, Garmin is running sales on many of its smartwatches. That includes many editions from the Forerunner line, which was the world’s first GPS running watch and is celebrating its 20th birthday this year. These watches are a great way to take your training to the next level, perfect as we head into summer (weather and wildfires permitting).

Garmin Forerunner 945 $399.99 (was $499.99)

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The Garmin Forerunner 945 has come a long way since the original Forerunner 201 was released in 2003. This advanced running watch provides the ability to sync music directly to the watch to keep you entertained on your runs. It offers 10 hours of battery life in GPS mode with music or up to two weeks in smartwatch mode. You’ll also have access to full-color onboard maps, a handful of safety and tracking features, and Garmin’s full suite of performance metrics and training insights. It’s not the latest version of the Forerunner, but it is still well worth purchasing.

Garmin fēnix 7 – Sapphire Solar Edition $699.99 (was $899.99)

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Garmin recently announced a Pro version of the adventure-focused fēnix 7, but the fēnix 7 is still a fantastic choice and more than enough watch for most people. This version offers the tougher Sapphire glass, so you won’t have to worry about scratches as much. And it provides solar charging, which promised 22 days of battery life in smartwatch mode when it gets access to enough sun. As with most Garmin watches, it features an accurate heart rate monitor and GPS, along with a long list of data collection and fitness tracking features.

Even more Garmin watches on sale:

More Garmin products on sale:

Garmin software updates

On top of running sales on many of its watches, Garmin has also announced a software update for the Enduro 2, epix (Gen 2), fēnix 7 series, Forerunner series, Instinct 2 series, and MARQ (Gen 2) watches. This update will include the addition of wrist-based running dynamics such as cadence, stride length, ground contact time, and more. These metrics will be measured right from the wrist, so you won’t need to purchase additional accessories if you are interested in that information.

The free software update also provides a Load Ratio to help you stay in shape and acclimation improvements to assist with altitude acclimation. Garmin also added an obstacle racing activity to keep track of your run time, the number of obstacles, heart rate, and more during obstacle course events. It will also record split times between running and obstacle sections during races. Finally, Targeted Adaptive Coaching for Cycling is now available. This will provide a week of daily suggested cycling workouts directly on the watch, which adapt to your performance and upcoming events that you add to your Gamin Connect calendar.

These updates have already started to roll out to compatible devices. You can update your new smartwatch by turning on automatic updates and syncing with Garmin Connect or by using Garmin Express. Don’t let these prices pass you by (but if they do, it’s probably because they have been training with a Garmin watch)!

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Just about every type of Citizen watch is on-sale at Amazon right now https://www.popsci.com/gear/citizen-watch-amazon-fathers-day-deals/ Tue, 06 Jun 2023 14:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=546184
Citizen watch deal for father's day
Stan Horaczek

Just about every style of Citizen watch has a real discount right now.

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Citizen watch deal for father's day
Stan Horaczek

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Lots of watch “deals” you see online aren’t really deals at all. They look like bargains because stores sell models well below their original (and unrealistic) suggested retail prices. Right now, however, Amazon has some genuinely good deals on some really handsome Citizen watches. And, if you’re a Prime subscriber, you can still get most of them with plenty of time to spare, making them one of the more perfect Father’s Day gifts. We’ve picked out some of our favorites that have really solid discounts going right now:

Citizen Men’s Sport Luxury Eco-Drive Chronograph Watch $211 (Was $356)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Weekender Garrison Field Watch $114 (Was $225)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Classic Corso Eco-Drive Watch, Chronograph $178 (Was $395)

Citizen

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Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Diver Mens Watch $247 (Was $425)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Sport Casual Brycen Weekender Chronograph Watch $175 (Was $375)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Corso Classic Watch in Stainless Steel with Brown Leather strap $189 (Was $325)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Sport Casual Brycen Eco-Drive Chronograph Watch, Super Titanium $287 (Was $575)

Citizen

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Citizen Watches Men’s CA0621-05L Eco-Drive $133 (Was $190)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Sport Casual Brycen Weekender Chronograph Watch $197 (Was $375)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Weekender Garrison Field Watch in Black IP Stainless Steel with Brown Leather strap $130 (Was $295)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Sport Casual Garrison 3-Hand Day/Date Eco-Drive Nylon Strap $144 (Was $206)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Classic Eco-Drive Leather Strap Watch $136 (Was $195)

Citizen Eco-Drive Weekender Mens Watch, Stainless Steel with Polyurethane Strap $143 (Was $275)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Promaster Sea Automatic Polyurethane Strap Watch $305 (Was $575)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Weekender Garrison Field Watch in Stainless Steel, Black Dial $167 (Was $250)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Promaster Sailhawk Eco-Drive Watch $297 (Was $550)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Sport Casual Garrison 3-Hand Eco-Drive Cordura Strap $203 (Was $295)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Classic Watch in Super Titanium with Atomic Timekeeping $417 (Was $596)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Sport Casual Avion Eco-Drive Chronograph Watch $252 (Was $395)

Citizen

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Citizen Corso Eco-Drive Men’s Watch $256 (Was $395)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Sport Casual Avion Eco-Drive Chronograph Watch $210 (Was $300)

Citizen

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Citizen Men’s Promaster Dive Eco-Drive Watch $275 (Was $550)

Citizen

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Here’s a look at Apple’s first augmented reality headset https://www.popsci.com/technology/wwdc-apple-vision-pro/ Mon, 05 Jun 2023 20:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=546054
Woman wearing Apple Vision Pro AR headset
The Apple Vision Pro will cost $3,499 and ship early next year. Apple

A round-up of the news from Apple's WWDC.

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Woman wearing Apple Vision Pro AR headset
The Apple Vision Pro will cost $3,499 and ship early next year. Apple

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While Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) typically focuses on software and operating system updates, this year’s edition on June 5 also finally unveiled the company’s most hyped product in nearly a decade: the Apple Vision Pro headset.

But that’s not to say WWDC was light on other major announcements, including first looks at iOS 17 and iPadOS 17, watchOS 10, and macOS Sonoma, alongside a slate of new product features. 

Here’s what the Cupertino company announced today.

Apple Vision Pro is real

After years of rumors and false starts, Apple’s long-hyped mixed-reality “spatial computing” headset is official: Apple Vision Pro, powered by a new operating system called visionOS, is almost here. The augmented and virtual reality wearable will debut early next year with a $3,499 price tag. Apple calls it their “first spatial computer.”

For the price, consumers can expect a ski goggle-like device alongside a pocket-sized external magnetic charging battery pack. Unlike similar devices such as the Meta Quest, there aren’t additional physical components such as controllers. Instead, to use Vision Pro, people will use their eyes, body movements, and speech. Pinching one’s fingers, for example, can expand or minimize app windows, while eye movement can highlight icons and other options.

The futuristic headset will be powered by both Apple’s M2 chip, alongside a new R1 chip designed specifically for Vision Pro alongside a host of components created for its spatial computing product. From a visual standpoint, Vision Pro relies on two postage-stamp-sized lenses featuring a combined 23 million pixels to provide 4K resolution. A new Optic ID system scans users’ irises for on-device security, while the Vision Pro’s camera system creates a CGI avatar for apps like FaceTime.

During the WWDC pre-taped showcase, Vision Pro wearers used eye and hand movements to control the device alongside aid from Siri (which will soon just respond to “Siri,” and not “Hey, Siri” by the way). A speaker and microphone array is embedded in the headset, but AirPods are intended to provide more comprehensive spatial audio. A Digital Crown, like the one on the  Apple Watch, is embedded on the headset to allow users the ability to toggle between AR and VR experiences.

Unsurprisingly, Vision Pro users can sync their Apple account data via their iPhone and iCloud, and the headset will include much of the standard app suite, including FaceTime, Files, Mail, Maps, Messages, Camera, Books, Safari, Photos, TV, and Weather. 

Apple’s sizzle reel focused heavily on videoconferencing and workspace collaborations alongside entertainment, media and gaming experiences. Noticeably absent from the presentation, however, was any reference to an escapist “metaverse” pitched by competitors like Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta. Instead, Cook emphasized the ability to enhance everyday experiences and work while not divorcing oneself from the surrounding world. Vision Pro’s semi-transparent glass front will allow users the option to maintain eye contact with nearby individuals, or occlude the screen entirely for full-screen apps and experiences.

Apple Vision Pro AR headset with charging battery
Credit: Apple

A 15-inch MacBook Air and the full transition to Apple Silicon

The company also announced more predictable hardware news. After years of the 13-inch standard MacBook Air, Apple also announced a 15-inch option sporting the same Apple silicon M2 chip used in last year’s models. At 11.5mm thin and just 3 pounds, the new 15-inch MacBook Air comes with Magsafe charging, six speakers, two Thunderbolt jacks, a 1080p camera, 18 hours of battery life, and is offered in four different colors. The 15-inch MacBook Air is available to order now, and begins shipping the week of June 12.

Mac Studio, introduced last year specifically for jobs like professional studio work, now boasts a new M2 Ultra chip, aka two M2 Max chips combined. Apple says the M2 Ultra chip is 20 percent faster than the M1, and boasts 192 GB of unified memory. Every new MacPro will come with the M2 Ultra chip—completing Apple’s complete transition to its in-house Apple silicon chips. The Mac Studio starts at $1,999, with MacPro starting at $6,999. Pre-orders are available now, with shipments beginning next week.

macOS Sonoma, iOS 17, iPad OS17, WatchOS 10

Of course, this being WWDC, Apple didn’t forget its upcoming software updates and changes. First up is iOS and iPad OS 17, which build upon last year’s home screen overhaul and iMessage edit features with a new smart display for locked iPhones in landscape mode called Standby. When placed in Standby, the iPhone functions as a desk clock and digital photo album alongside widgets like calendars, weather, and news. A forthcoming Journal app focuses on providing a space for private reflections, with the ability to log emotions and moods within end-to-end encryption security (E2EE).

As for iPadOS 17, it’s finally catching up with iOS abilities via a customizable lock screen feature first introduced last year in iOS 16. Widgets are also coming to the lock screen, as well as the Health app, while creators can look forward to iPad-honed Logic Pro and FinalCut Pro.

The next macOS is officially called Sonoma, and comes with a nifty rolling wallpaper feature as well as with—you guessed it—more widgets, which are now able to be dragged anywhere on the desktop. Sonoma’s gaming remains one of Apple’s self-imposed weak spots, but will feature a Game Mode option to optimize whatever you find yourself playing on Mac devices. Safari will get family password sharing, browsing profiles, and Web Apps, which appear to function as a kind of highly focused bookmark mode.

Video conferencing is also getting some upgrades, including the ability to adjust the size of your video overlay during presentations, and some fun reaction abilities that can also be used with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, WebX. 

As for watchOS 10, the word is once again “widgets,” which are returning to the new OS as a major component controllable via the Digital Crown. Resembling the same feature on iOS and iPadOS home screens, users will be able to scroll through information such as calendar events, weather forecasts, and stock tickers. Apple Watch core apps are also getting updated designs to maximize the newer, larger displays for both standard watches and the Apple Watch Ultra.

Everything else

Apple highlighted a ton of stuff over this two-hour-plus preview, but a number of smaller updates and releases deserve their own mentions:  The Phone app, FaceTime, and Messages are all getting some exciting new features, notably the debut of personalized “contact posters” as an extension of one’s contact card. These essentially resemble a customizable lock screen notification for whoever is calling you. Similarly, AirDrop is getting something called NameDrop, a touchless personal info swap for new contacts, photos, and other media via simply bringing two iPhones or Apple Watches close together.

Voicemail will soon have a real-time transcription service, with the ability to immediately pick up the call, if you want. FaceTime is finally getting the ability to leave a video message in the event of a missed call. Messages is getting an improved search with filters to narrow conversation results, as well as a catchup arrow for group chats allowing you to jump to the last unchecked message. Messages also will boast audio transcriptions and various other improvements to in-line conversations. A Check-In ability to let friends and family know when you arrive at your destination within an E2EE security context. In terms of other travel add-ons, you’ll soon be able to download portions of Maps to check offline, in the event you ever find yourself in a dead zone.

AirPods are introducing adaptive audio, which personalizes volume by leveraging machine learning to adjust in real time. A pre-taped demo offered streaming music automatically muting when talking to someone, as well as selectively dimming unwanted ambient noise as opposed to important environmental situations such as car horns or bike bells. AirPlay is getting “on-device intelligence” to learn your casting habits for HomePod, and will soon get a QR code-based streamlining ability for participating hotels’ TVs.

Finally, Apple’s Health app is ramping up an emphasis on mental health via state-of-mind documentation, screening tools, and suggested resources. 

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Garmin’s newest smartwatches are even more adventure-ready https://www.popsci.com/gear/garmin-epix-pro-fenix-7-pro-news/ Wed, 31 May 2023 16:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=544842
Garmin fēnix 7 Pro on a wrist with the flashlight illuminated
Garmin

The new epix Pro and fēnix 7 Pro high-performance GPS adventure watches offer more advanced features for serious endurance athletes and outdoor enthusiasts.

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Garmin fēnix 7 Pro on a wrist with the flashlight illuminated
Garmin

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Garmin is well known for its expansive list of rugged fitness watches, with multiple lines specifically tailored to different activity types. And now, the options for adventurers and serious endurance athletes are even more extensive with the announcement of updated Pro versions of the epix and fēnix 7 watches. 

Most of the updates to these premium next-gen. multisport watches are incremental software changes, such as more activity types and new fitness measurement tools. But there are also a few notable hardware and build upgrades, including a new size option and AMOLED display for the epix Pro and an LED flashlight in all three sizes of both the epix Pro and fēnix 7 Pro. Both watches will also benefit from trickle-down features from the new Forerunners.

Garmin epix Pro details

Garmin just debuted its epix 2 line of watches last year. Despite how new the series is, the company is rolling out some worthwhile updates to make it even better in a new Pro version. With vibrant metrics-rich watch faces and extensive sensors/navigation features in a sleek body, the epix Pro remains a great choice for boardroom-to-backcountry adventures and weekend warriors, from climbers and mountaineers to ultra-marathon trail runners. 

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epix Pro and build changes

The epix came in two sizes—42mm and 47mm—while the Pro version adds a 52mm option for those who really want a statement piece on their wrist. The larger size offers more than just a dramatic look, however. Garmin packed extra battery into the 52mm version, which promises up to 31 days of battery life in smartwatch mode. The 42mm and 47mm both should provide 10 and 16 days of battery life, respectively. 

Like the epix Gen. 2, the Garmin epix Pro will be available in Standard Edition, which features Corning Gorilla Glass and stainless steel case, or the Sapphire Edition, which uses a more durable Sapphire lens and titanium case. And all three sizes get an even brighter upgraded AMOLED display for a colorful, detail-packed watch face. 

All three sizes will offer an LED flashlight, which can vary in intensity and features a strobe mode. We were glad to see the flashlight included even on the smallest watch since it is a potentially game-changing feature. It can illuminate your path while trail running or hiking in the dark and help others see you, which is invaluable if exercising near a road. 

The epix Pro also gets an updated and optimized heart rate sensor. Garmin didn’t provide any information on what exactly that means, but it says these changes will provide “enhanced multisport performance tracking.”

Fitness tracking features

Garmin watches are already robust in their fitness tracking abilities, but the company is not one to just let things be. The epix Pro will offer new activities, which include team sports such as soccer, basketball, and racquet sports, as well as horseback riding and more.

Beyond new tracking modes, Garmin also created new training features. Hill Score gives you a better idea of how your training impacts your ability to run uphill. Uphill segments are automatically detected and analyzed, and that information is combined with other physiological metrics to provide a score from one to 100. It even breaks the score down into Hill Endurance and Hill Strength, which reflect short, fast efforts versus long, sustained climbs. And it offers feedback to improve your training over time. 

The second new feature—Endurance score—looks beyond your VO2 Max, giving a more personalized look at your fitness. It analyzes both short-term and long-term endurance training and takes into account all types of activity, not just running or cycling. And, like Hill Score, it provides training feedback to help you understand your score.

Three new display types on the Garmin epix Pro smartwatch
The epix Pro will offer new terrain maps, a Red Shift Mode for night use, and weather overlays. Garmin

Additional new features

The Garmin epix Pro will provide a unique Red Shift Mode, which changes the display to shares of red. This lessens the impact on your vision when looking at your watch in the dark and reduces any sleep cycle disturbance you might get from the standard display. You can manually turn on this display mode or schedule it to automatically turn on and off based on sunset and sunrise time. And you can even select certain activities that automatically use Red Shift Mode.

Up Ahead mode will allow you to view running points of interest, such as checkpoints and aid stations, right on the map. This allows you to better understand what’s in front of you and plan accordingly on your race or activity. 

The last feature those navigating the backcountry will especially appreciate is the new weather map overlays and relief shading on topographic maps. The weather overlays can display temperature, precipitation, and cloud cover, to help you make more informed decisions on the go. And relief shading will assist in navigation. You can also opt into Outdoor Maps+ for even more map content, including satellite imagery and more detailed maps.  

Garmin epix Pro pricing & availability

The epix Pro is available for purchase as of today, starting at $899.99.

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Garmin fēnix 7 Pro details

Like the epix Pro, most changes to the fēnix 7 Pro are smaller software additions. The fēnix 7 Pro still comes in 42mm, 47mm, or 51mm sizes, though you no longer have the option of a version without solar charging. You can, however, choose between Standard Solar or Sapphire Solar, depending on how robust you want your watch face. 

Like many of Garmin’s new watches lately, including the Instinct 2X, the fēnix 7 Pro will feature an LED flashlight in all sizes. It offers a broad pattern, variable intensities, red safety light, and strobe mode. 

New training features

The fēnix 7 Pro also gets a new heart rate sensor. Garmin says this next-gen sensor utilizes “more spatially diverse optical sensors and sport-specific algorithms.” It should provide even better performance tracking for more activities, giving you even more accurate insight into your training. 

Like the epix Pro, the fēnix 7 Pro will also get the new Endurance Score and Hill Score for better endurance training insight. It also gets its share of new activities, including white water rafting, motocross, overlanding, and dozens more. And the watch will provide access to the weather map overlays, new relief shading, and Up Ahead mode.

Garmin fēnix 7 Pro pricing and availability

All versions of the fēnix 7 Pro are available for purchase at a starting price of $799.99.

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The best Memorial Day fitness deals let you jump into summer activities and save https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-memorial-day-amazon-fitness-deals-2023/ Fri, 26 May 2023 12:19:03 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=543181
Save big on gear with these Memorial Day fitness deals.

Break a sweat without breaking the bank with these deals, like 20% on an inflatable kayak.

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Save big on gear with these Memorial Day fitness deals.

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The unofficial kickoff to summer is a great time to get active, indoors or out. The warmer weather invites barbecues and relaxation. So whether you’re training for a race, looking to get out on the water for the first time, or improving your putt, these Memorial Day fitness deals will help you prepare, have fun, and save money while you’re doing it.

Aquaglide Deschutes Inflatable Kayak $543.89 (was $679.99)

Inflatable kayaks are appealing because they’re generally much easier to transport than traditional models. But you shouldn’t have to sacrifice performance for portability. Aquaglide’s Deschutes Inflatable Kayak provides a solution: It’s both a cinch to toss into your car and includes features that paddlers are looking for. Plus, it’s currently available at its lowest price in months—just in time for the weather and waters to warm up.

This single-person kayak weighs just 18 pounds and fits into an included duffle bag. You’ll need a 12-volt air pump to inflate the three chambers of this open cockpit model, which is not included. Once inflated, this 11-foot kayak is designed with handles for carrying, a cushioned, quick-release seat, and adjustable footrests for a comfortable ride. The package also includes a quick-release fin, cockpit drain, and repair kit should you encounter rough waters. 

More outdoor fitness deals

Best home gym equipment deals

Best smartwatch and wearable deals

Best fitness accessories

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Grab a near-mint Apple Watch Series 7 for only $330 https://www.popsci.com/sponsored-content/refurbished-apple-watch-deal/ Mon, 22 May 2023 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=542713
A red Apple Watch 7 on a white background
Stack Commerce

This smartwatch is packed full of health and productivity apps, and boasts a Grade A refurbished rating.

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A red Apple Watch 7 on a white background
Stack Commerce

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This near-mint 2021 Apple Watch Series 7 brings notifications, health information, and more right to your wrist for only $327.99—that’s 36 percent off its original price. 

From workouts to busy work days to running errands, an Apple Watch may make your life a little bit easier. These smartwatches go several steps beyond telling time to deliver notifications, collect health information, and so much more.

Avoid the hefty price tag by grabbing a high-quality, refurbished watch. Get a near-mint Apple Watch Series 7 (2021) for only $327.99 (reg. $529).

Revolutionize your watch experience

Apple describes the Series 7 as the most durable Apple Watch built to its creation date. The redesigned watch has extra watch face options, faster charging, and an improved WatchOS. Use new features like additional fitness tracking, a mindfulness app, and more.

The Series 7 also has a larger, always-on Retina display to make it easier to see the time, notifications, or any of your apps. Here are just some of the things you could do with your watch:

  • Track workouts and get data like your heart rate, step count, measured distance, and even personalized reminders to stay active.
  • Monitor other health information like your blood oxygen level, take an ECG, use sleep-tracking apps, and get reminders to take medications or wash your hands.
  • Receive and respond to notifications, messages, or answer phone calls right from your wrist.
  • Access reminders and calendar events without having to pull out your phone.
  • Listen to music during your workouts by syncing your earbuds right to your watch. Leave your iPhone behind and control songs from your wrist.
  • Make purchases with Apple Pay by tapping your watch for payment.

This specific watch is powered by either WiFi or cellular connections. Enjoy the full functionality of your watch anywhere you can get cell service or WiFi.

Excellent quality and price

You may be a little skeptical about purchasing a refurbished device, but this watch boasts an impressive Grade ‘A’ rating. That means it will arrive in near-mint condition with minimal or zero scuffing on its exterior. Essentially, you get a high-quality device while saving nearly 40 percent of its retail cost.

Take it from one verified buyer, who raved, “I love everything about this watch. I had a first-generation Apple Watch for many years and finally decided to upgrade. I’m very happy I did.”

Meet your new companion: an Apple Watch Series 7 (2021) with Silicone Band, Grade A Refurbished for only $327.99 (reg. $529).

Prices subject to change.

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Get an Apple Watch SE for less than $250 on Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/apple-watch-se-amazon-sale/ Tue, 09 May 2023 17:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=540014
An Apple Watch SE 2 on a teal and periwinkle background
Amanda Reed

Watch this space ... for a great deal on an Apple Watch SE.

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An Apple Watch SE 2 on a teal and periwinkle background
Amanda Reed

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Smartwatches are a handy way to keep weather notifications, health tracking, texts, and music accessible without taking your phone out of your pocket. If you have an iPhone, there’s no better choice than the Apple Watch, which easily syncs to your phone and other Apple devices. Our favorite starter Apple Watch—the Apple Watch SE—is on sale today, warranting you some savings.

Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS 40mm] $219 (Was $249)

Apple

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If you don’t need a blood oxygen sensor like in the Apple Watch 8 or the ultra-long battery life of the Apple Watch Ultra, the Watch SE is the best choice. The 2nd-gen. SE comes in two varieties, appropriately: a GPS and cellular variety (also on sale for $299) and one that just comes with GPS, on sale for $219. As an Apple Watch makes a great fitness tracker, we also like pairing one with our favorite headphones for working out—luckily, the Apple Beats Fit Pro earbuds are also on sale.

Like we say in our Apple Watch comparison explainer, “If you just want an Apple Watch that works, and you don’t necessarily care about getting every kind of data, the SE 2 is probably the move.”

You know what’s also the move? Snagging this deal before it ends.

Here are more Apple, smartwatch, and electronics deals that are the apple of our eyes:

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Amazon has Citizen x Star Wars watches on deep discount for May the 4th https://www.popsci.com/gear/citizen-star-wars-death-star-watch-deal/ Fri, 17 Mar 2023 13:51:07 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=520521
Star Wars amazon watch deals
Citizen

Show us a classier piece of Star Wars merch. We'll wait. And with this May the 4th sale, you can afford to have that new watch be with you.

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Star Wars amazon watch deals
Citizen

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As many of you know, May the 4th represents a special holiday for Star Wars fans. It’s an opportunity to get dressed up in your favorite fan gear and head out to work or other real-life events without judgment from the normies. However, these super-classy Citizen x Star Wars watches will let you rep your fandom all year without having to worry about going over the top. These are selling quickly today, so if you see a design you like, jump on it before some other super fan beats you to it.

Citizen Star Wars ANI-Digi Quartz Watch $276 (Was $395)

Citizen

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This hybrid watch offers two analog dials and two digital screens, so you can track two time zones, get the digital time, and get the temperature. It has a built-in alarm and light. Plus, the whole thing comes packed in a slick stainless steel case that elevates this way above plastic novelty watches other fans might be rocking.

Citizen Eco-Drive Star Wars Men’s Watch, Chewbacca Brown $238(Was $325)

Citizen

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You won’t find a ton of Star Wars merch you could wear to a formal gathering, but Citizen’s Death Star watch fits just fine with a tuxedo or whatever people wear to Comic Con. Plus, it’s just $238, compared to its $350 regular price. It’s a full-fledged Citizen Eco-Drive watch, which means it offers 100 meters of water resistance, and it never needs a battery change or winding as long as you give it some sunshine every once in a while. It’s the classiest piece of Star Wars merch you’ll find this side of those lightsaber cuff links your mom wouldn’t let you wear to your grandma’s 90th birthday party.

More Citizen watch deals

Maybe you don’t want to rock a Star Wars watch constantly. What if the person doing your next job interview is a Trekkie? That would be super awkward. Luckily, plenty of other Citizen watches are on sale at Amazon right now.

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You can save $60 on the best Android smartwatch at Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/samsung-galaxy-watch-5-amazon-sale/ Thu, 27 Apr 2023 15:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=537216
SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 5 40mm
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Take advantage of limited-time savings on Samsung's svelte Galaxy Watch 5 and collect more metrics for less money.

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SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 5 40mm
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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There aren’t many smartwatches that can stand toe-to-toe with the Apple Watch, but Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 5 is one of those exceptions. The sleek-looking digital timepiece can also display notifications and continuously record key health metrics without intervention, bringing the kind of integration that iOS users are used to over to the Android ecosystem. The best part is that you can snag this smartwatch for $219—its lowest price ever—if you shop at Amazon right now.

SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 5 (40mm), $219 (Was $279.99)

Amazon

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One of the Galaxy Watch 5’s greatest strengths is that it doesn’t look like a piece of tech at first glance. Watches are fashion accessories regardless of functionality, and subtlety works in Samsung’s favor. This smartwatch’s 1.2-inch color display is large enough that you should be able to easily read text without feeling like you’re carrying a boat on your wrist. The screen is made of scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass, so it shouldn’t chip if you accidentally bump your wrist against a desk or dumbbell. You can change its watch faces and bands to suit your mood or the occasion, too.

Aesthetics are important, but the Galaxy Watch 5’s tech features help it stand out the most. Samsung says its sensors can analyze your sleep and recommend changes to help you get more rest. Additional sensors can track your heart rate, BMI, body water level, basal metabolic rate, blood pressure, and more. If you’re exercising, the Galaxy Watch 5 can automatically assess how you’re working out and accurately track how many calories you’ve burned based on the activity.

If you’re trying to improve your health or want to know what time it is without pulling out your phone, Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 5 is an excellent option at this price. Just be mindful that it can only be paired with Android devices, which means it’s incompatible with the iPhone.

If you’re already happy with what’s on your wrist, here are some more deals to accessorize your home:

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Apple Watch comparison: Which one is right for you? https://www.popsci.com/reviews/apple-watch-comparison/ Fri, 16 Sep 2022 21:45:01 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=366601
Apple Watch Comparison
The Apple Watch Series 7 (left) and Series 8 (right), side by side. Mike Epstein

When you’re choosing an Apple Watch, comparison shopping is your friend to get the style and generation that’s right for you.

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Apple Watch Comparison
The Apple Watch Series 7 (left) and Series 8 (right), side by side. Mike Epstein

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The Apple Watch is still far and away the most popular line of wearable devices in the world. According to analyst Counterpoint Research, it accounted for more than 30 percent of all smartwatches sold in 2021. The wider range of Apple Watches also contains the best overall smartwatches you can get right now if you’re looking for a “lifestyle” watch that blends fitness tracking, health features, and a secondary interface for notifications, texts, and calls from your phone. In 2022, however, Apple completely overhauled the Apple Watch line with a wave of three new models: the standard Apple Watch Series 8, the budget-friendly second-generation Apple Watch SE, and a new high-end sports watch, the Apple Watch Ultra. Between those three and all of the past models, which you can still find at Amazon and other retailers, you have many options if you’re considering your first Apple Watch or upgrading from an older design. Before you commit to putting a new computer on your wrist, we’ve put together this Apple Watch comparison to help you figure out how to pick the right one for you.

Apple Watch SE 2 vs. Series 8 vs. Ultra

For the most part, we think it’s prudent to focus on Apple’s current set of Watches. They have the latest and greatest tech inside—perfect to pair with that new iPhone 14 Pro Max. All three 2022 watches—even the relatively affordable SE—feature the same processor and motion sensors that enable car crash detection. The 2022 models will also get more watchOS software updates down the road, which means you can hold onto one (or more) longer before your Watch needs replacing. From cheapest to most expensive, here are the three current options and why you may or may not want them:

Apple Watch SE 2

Apple

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The newly remodeled Apple Watch SE is the budget-conscious choice. Starting at $249 for GPS or $299 for a cellular model, it offers much of the core functionality of the standard Apple Watch line, but it’s slightly smaller than the other recent Apple Watches. Its 40mm and 44mm face options match the Apple Watch 6. It also lacks some of the line’s more advanced sensors and features, including a blood oxygen sensor, temperature sensors, or an “always-on” display that keeps the screen partially lit even when it isn’t in use. It also cuts corners in other small ways compared to the standard Apple Watch, like ditching fast-charging.

At the same time, the second-generation SE comes closer to parity with the standard Apple Watch than the last generation. It features the same chipset inside and offers the same battery life. It offers the power and features to work effectively as a fitness tracker, sleep tracker, and iPhone companion device for most people. And it costs substantially less. If you just want an Apple Watch that works, and you don’t necessarily care about getting every kind of data, the SE 2 is probably the move.

Apple Watch Series 8

Mike Epstein

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In my mind, the Apple Watch Series 8 is the best smartwatch for most people. It offers a wide array of features, including nuanced tracking features for fitness and your overall health. Its upgraded sensor array allows it to track ECG-based heart rate readings, blood oxygen levels, and skin temperature as a means to monitor ovulation and provide enhanced menstrual cycle tracking. It also features a constellation of quality-of-life advantages over the SE 2, like a bigger case size—41mm and 45mm—with a larger, always-on display, which makes it easier to type on and check at a glance.

Starting at $399 for GPS or $499 for Cellular, the Apple Watch Series 8 is the definitive Apple Watch experience. If you plan to use the Apple Watch to monitor your health, the advanced sensors will make a notable difference in what you can track. Even on its most basic level, though, the improved screen, fast-charging, and other small improvements over the SE makes the Watch Series 8 more effective as a half-step for monitoring activity on your phone without actually stopping to pull it out.

Apple Watch Ultra

Apple

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The Apple Watch Ultra is the most powerful Apple Watch and, frankly, will be overkill for most people. The $799 Apple Watch Ultra is an outdoor-focused “sport” watch, similar to many of Garmin’s high-end wearables. Unlike the other Apple Watches, it’s only in one size—a huge 49mm case—with cellular support and dual-frequency GPS built in. It features a thicker, more durable build with a redesigned digital crown and an extra “Action” button to quickly start workouts and toggle other functions. 

The Ultra gets double the battery life of the other 2022 Apple Watches—36 hours versus 18 hours on the Series 8 and SE—which is great for everyone, but many of its features are designed for athletes and outdoorsy folk dealing with harsh conditions. Its powerful built-in speakers enable a loud SOS siren if you get lost in the woods. Improved waterproofing, certifications, and a dedicated app qualify it as a diving computer. The three-microphone array is burlier than normal to improve call clarity in situations with power interference from blizzards and powerful winds. It even has specialty bands for specific activities like diving and endurance training.

Given the difference in price and specificity of its feature set, you should only consider getting the Apple Watch Ultra if you are either a serious athlete or a fan of outdoor activities that require specialized equipment like climbing, off-trail hiking, and diving. If that sounds like your speed, you’re better off comparing the Apple Watch Ultra to the best Garmin smartwatches, as well as top picks from other brands like Suunto.

What about the older Apple Watches?

Though Apple’s lineup is limited to those three watches, there are still plenty of ways to get your hands on an older-model Apple Watch. If you aren’t concerned with getting a handful of new features in the Series 8, such as low-power mode, Car Crash Detection, and temperature sensors for ovulation tracking, the Apple Watch Series 7 is still a very appealing, very viable option. Likewise, the Apple Watch Series 6 gives you most of the same functionality as the Series 7 and Series 8, though you’ll be stuck with a smaller display, which makes a bigger difference than you think.

I would not recommend going further back than the Series 6 at this point. Independent of the features you’ll lose access to model by model, the older Apple Watches inevitably offer shorter lifespans. With every new version of watchOS, the Apple Watch’s operating system, the company will inevitably shut off support for each older watch, leaving you without access to new software-enabled features and security updates. It may be cheaper, but we can’t recommend you buy an Apple Watch Series 4, knowing that it will likely become obsolete in less than 12 months. And suppose you’re using an Apple Watch Series 3, which Apple sold until earlier this year but stopped supporting with watchOS 9. In that case, you should consider upgrading soon to ensure your watch remains secure, especially if you use it for Apple Pay.

What size watch face should you get?

The new Apple Watch SE offers two case sizes, 40mm and 44mm. Series 8 features a larger size range at 41mm and 45mm. The Apple Watch Ultra comes in a single, extra-large 49mm size. Though it sounds small, even a 1mm difference can feel quite striking on your wrist and looks substantially larger.

If you’re unsure what size would feel right, we recommend going to an Apple store or other retailer and trying all sizes on to see what feels right. If one Watch feels noticeably better than the others, go with it. A bigger screen is an upgrade, but it won’t matter if the Watch feels bulky or uncomfortable on your wrist. 

Which Apple smartwatch is the best fitness tracker?

Apple Watch Series 8 Review
The new Heart zones feature in watchOS 9 enhances runs on any Apple Watch. Mike Epstein

The Apple Watch Ultra has special features that make it the best fitness tracker for certain kinds of athletes and workouts. The action button on the side of the watch makes it easier to switch between legs of a race or training if you’re in the middle of a multi-phase workout, for example. It also offers superior GPS for more accurate tracking while using the Apple Watch’s “Race Route” feature to create and follow a work routine.

That said, in terms of heart tracking and data collection, the Apple Watch Series 8 and Apple Watch Ultra feature the same sensors for tracking your heart rate and movement. If you’re looking for a watch to bring to the gym or track your outdoor runs, the Series 8 is probably the right call.

Is the stainless steel Apple Watch upgrade worth it?

In addition to the standard recycled aluminum body, you can pay extra for an Apple Watch Series 8 made from stainless steel. The Apple Watch Ultra features a highly durable titanium body. Both metals are tougher than aluminum and won’t scratch or dent as easily. Perhaps more importantly, the stainless steel Series 8 and the Ultra come with an extra-hard sapphire crystal over the display. Having worn both models extensively, I can say that the sapphire crystal upgrade clearly resists scratches and damage better than the Ion-X glass used in the standard Series 8 and SE 2 displays. We haven’t had any problems with scratches or breakage with the Ion-X glass, though, so it isn’t a huge concern if you’re not putting it in harm’s way regularly. 

Of course, that extra durability—and the additional colorways—will cost you. The stainless steel case models start at $699, and the Apple Watch Ultra costs $799. If you plan to keep one watch for a long time, the additional durability may be worth it. That said, you shouldn’t worry about your watch being highly fragile if you don’t.

Do you need cellular data on the Apple Watch?

When making your own Apple Watch comparison, whether or not you need cellular data is a major feature difference between models. The Watch itself costs more with cellular built-in: it’s a $50 premium for the SE and an extra $100 on the Series 8. Then you’ll have to factor in the cost of the data itself. Most carriers will charge you about $10 per month extra to add basic data to your Watch. Check with your carrier for compatibility before making a purchase. 

That extra expense may be worth it for some people because it allows them to use many Apple Watch features without lugging around an iPhone. So, if you run without a phone, you can still make calls and listen to music from streaming services. 

So, which Apple Watch should you buy?

I can think of many specific reasons to pick each of the newer Apple Watches. The Apple Watch SE 2 is cost-effective and does most of the things you really need. The Apple Watch Series 8 is the best complement to everyday life and offers all kinds of sensors for advanced health and fitness tracking. For the right kind of hiker/athlete/diver/outdoorsman who wants the very best Apple Watch, the Apple Watch Ultra delivers incredible utility and best-in-class versions of core functions like GPS and battery life.

Without any information about you, dear reader, we think the Apple Watch Series 8 offers the best balance between price and functionality. If that doesn’t ring true, if there are things you really want (or don’t want) that steer you to another watch, we totally get it. That’s why we made this Apple Watch comparison. The important thing is finding the Apple Watch that fits your life.

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The best waterproof smartwatches of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-waterproof-smartwatch/ Wed, 09 Jun 2021 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=370944
Hit the pool, rivers, and lakes with the best warerproof smartwatches.

Waterproof smartwatches can look splashy and they’ll never leave you high and dry.

The post The best waterproof smartwatches of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Hit the pool, rivers, and lakes with the best warerproof smartwatches.

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A TEACHER PET blue little tikes smartwatch Little Tikes Tobi Robot Smartwatch
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A handy learning tool disguised as a digital pet.

A MONSTER DEAL Best budget: VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3 VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3
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Fun features without the high price tag make this smartwatch a smart buy.

KEEP KIDS ON TRACK Best health tracker: Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3 Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3
SEE IT

A stylish activity monitor that counts sheep, strides, and strokes.

The best technology grants us the freedom to work and play whenever and wherever we want. Smartwatches embody this idea. They allow us to keep track of our activities and alerts pretty much anywhere—sometimes even underwater. Waterproofing technology allows top smartwatches to function through all types of weather, whether we’re caught in an unexpected downpour or jumping into the shower, swimming pool, or even the ocean. The best waterproof smartwatch operates safely and helps keep you connected no matter where the day takes you.

How we picked the best waterproof smartwatches

Waterproof smartwatches are a topic we really enjoy, well, diving into. With avid swimmers, cyclists, runners, hikers, and just general outdoors enthusiasts on the staff, we have a lot of experience with watches that can handle the elements. We combined these first-hand perspectives with peer recommendations and other real-world impressions, plus scoured critical reviews and specs sheets, to come up with the best waterproof smartwatches you can buy today.

The best waterproof smartwatches: Reviews & Recommendations

A great waterproof smartwatch will withstand the pressures of water and your level of activity. It won’t be daunted by rain, sleet, or snow, or by a spontaneous trip to splash in the ocean. On top of how much water it will resist, the best waterproof smartwatch can also help you track your own hydration and other levels that will keep you in optimal physical and mental health while out adventuring. The right timepiece for you will always keep pace. Here are some suggestions.

Best overall: Apple Watch Series 8

Apple

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Why it made the cut: The latest in the Apple Watch Series features crash detection, always-on display, sophisticated health tracking and more.

Specs

  • Sizes: 41mm, 45mm
  • Battery life: Up to 18 hours
  • Swimproof? Yes

Pros

  • Alerts first responders in case of emergency
  • Provides ECG testing and blood oxygen level testing
  • Water-, dust-, and crack-resistant

Cons

  • Expensive

Whether you jump into a project or a pool, the Apple Watch Series 8 can handle it. This waterproof smartwatch can sync seamlessly to your iPhone, use apps to measure your vitals, and keep you moving. This new model also helps keep you healthy: It comes with new crash and fall detection features that will alert emergency services in the case of an accident. It will also keep tabs on your blood oxygen level, and alert you to irregular heart rhythms. It also comes with built-in gyroscope and compass and up to 18 hours of battery life. If you’re spending extended periods in liquid, however, it’s best to opt for the sports band that is made from a soft, silicone rubber because it has a little stretch, making it comfortable to wear during activity. Or if you’re serious about endurance sports or off-the-grid adventures, take it up a notch with the Apple Watch Ultraread more here.

Best tactical: Garmin fenix 7X Pro Solar

Garmin

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Why it made the cut: The Garmin fenix 7X Pro is designed with sophisticated map features, comes with GPS and a built-in LED flashlight and tracks health metrics, and is solar-powered.

Specs

  • Sizes: 42,mm, 47mm, 51mm
  • Battery life: Up to 122 hours in direct sunlight
  • Swimproof? No

Pros

  • Compass, altimeter, and sophisticated mapping built in
  • Water-resistant
  • Long-lasting solar charging power
  • Comes with features to optimize performance in a range of sports

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Rugged looking for everyday use

This fully-loaded Garmin tactical smartwatch is rated at 10ATM, meaning you could take it just about anywhere but diving (there are even surfing-specific features). It can survive drops and submersion, offers advanced health monitoring features to keep tabs on your blood oxygen saturation levels, altitude, sleep, and pace planning. Features to note include Multi-GNSS tracking, plus maps for at-a-glance navigation. While expensive, this solar tactical smartwatch extends the already long battery life by recharging while on your wrist for weeks of life (or days if GPS is constantly running). Garmin has numerous waterproof sports watches to choose from (including the Instinct 2 Solar we reviewed). However, if you covet the Apple Watch’s AMOLED screen and are willing to put up with “only” about two weeks of battery life at a time, the perfect choice is the epix Gen. 2, which puts all the features of the fenix 7 behind a vivid always-on display shielded by sapphire glass.

Best for kids: Garmin vivofit jr. 3

Garmin

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Why it made the cut: Kids are excited to wear this fun series of watches that helps them learn how to create healthy habits.  

Specs

  • Sizes: One, with adjustable band
  • Battery life: Up to a year before requires replacement
  • Swimproof? Yes

Pros

  • Models feature Marvel’’s Spider Man and Disney princesses 
  • Comes with built-in adventures for kids 
  • Tracks soccer games and provides step competitions

Cons

  • Kids may quickly outgrow

Get your kid excited about swimming with the Garmin vivofit jr. 3. This smartwatch comes with a bright display with multiple faces and a range of fun designs, including Marvel and Disney characters to make the tracking more fun. These smartwatches are waterproof and will help your kids learn healthy habits, and will also let you keep tabs on their steps and sleep.

Best for Android: SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch Active 2

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: This Android watch comes with pace coaching, monitors your heart rate, tracks your sleep, and you can choose from a range of bands and faces.

Specs

  • Sizes: 40mm, 44mm
  • Battery life: Days on a single charge
  • Swimproof? Yes

Pros

  • Also compatible with Apple
  • Comes with voice assistant, Bixby
  • Sleek design
  • Tracks workouts, heart health, and sleep

Cons

  • Not super rugged
  • Yes

This stylish smartwatch is also resilient, rated at 5ATM and IP68 (meaning it can withstand dust, dirt, and sand, and is resistant to submersion up to a maximum depth of 1.5m underwater for up to 30 minutes). So, whether you accidentally drop it in the pool or intentionally wear it while doing a pike and tuck, the SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch Active2 can survive and thrive. And its digital dial makes it easy to navigate menus full of options for activity tracking and smart assistants, as this smartwatch can connect to almost any phone and extend its connectivity and controls (though, it should be noted, iPhone users will have access to fewer features than Android users).

Best fitness tracker: Fitbit Sense 2

Fitbit

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Why it made the cut: Fitbit’s most advanced smartwatch goes deep on sleep and other health metrics and comes with stress management features.

Specs

  • Sizes: Adjustable wristband
  • Battery life: Up to 6 days on a single charge
  • Swimproof? Yes

Pros

  • Works with Apple and Android
  • Built-in GPS
  • Sophisticated sleep and stress tracking

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with the fitness activities other smartwatches do

Swimproof to 50 meters, so you can track laps or just splash around with your kid wearing the similarly equipped Fitbit Ace 3, this fully loaded watch takes fitness and wellness tracking to the next level—monitoring heart rate, skin temperature, oxygen saturation, workout intensity, and more to help you meet your goals. From electrodermal activity to an ECG app, it’s tracking your body’s rhythms and stress—useful information to help you and your doctor tweak your lifestyle. It’s packed with advice and enhancements, good on and off dry land.

What to consider when looking for the best waterproof smartwatches

With the unpredictability of life, everyone can benefit from the added protections found in waterproof smartwatches. While it’s easy to imagine the benefit for hiking and outdoor sports, waterproofing is a smart choice for added protection from far more typical activities like handwashing or gardening. Popular brands—including Apple, Samsung, Fitbit, and Garmin—all offer waterproofing features to boost their overall durability for their customers. Sport models offer even higher levels for outdoor lifestyle customers. LTE-enabled options can make calls and keep you connected without a phone, giving you even more freedom to dive headfirst into adventure. Consider your activities and choose your watch’s level of protection to match.

Travel plans

Whether your plans involve day-tripping into national parks or navigating much longer trips into the backcountry, there’s a level of preparedness that can match. If you’re only worried about getting caught in the rain, or maybe navigating a tricky creek crossing, you should look for a watch with a water rating of 5ATM (5 atmospheres), meaning it can withstand underwater pressures at a depth up to 50 meters. Accordingly, 10ATM and 20ATM correspond with 100 meters and 200 meters—appropriate if you plan to go from just hiking and fishing to sailing, surfing, or snorkeling. This waterproofing protects the full suite of sensors—including GPS, altimeters, barometers, and compasses—that can make a properly specced tactical smartwatch an integral part of an expedition.

Options for kids

If your electronics ended up near a pool, chances are you’d be conscious of whether to leave them safely in a car or locker. Your kid, however, just wants to jump right in. And if you tell them to take something off but look after it, chances are that something isn’t making it home. So a kid’s smartwatch needs to be inexpensive and durable. Luckily, brands have taken this into consideration and made their children’s smartwatches lower in price than their adult versions, but with some surprisingly handy features—like waterproofing. The best kids’ smartwatches are fun and encourage your child to keep moving. And they’re resilient enough to keep up with the child while tracking their health and whereabouts.

Need a watch to go from the workday to weekend?

If your work life is already deeply integrated with Apple’s ecosystem, it makes sense to opt for an Apple Watch to maintain and even increase your productivity. As with most Apple products, they are designed to seamlessly work together, intuitively handing off apps, alerts, and data. On top of that, they’re water-resistant and look as much at home with a sports jacket as they do sportswear…as good with a three-piece suit as a swimsuit. The point is, an Apple Watch balances functionality and finesse.

Android v. Apple

Android smartwatches are offered by a variety of different brands, including TicWatch, Samsung, Fossil, Fitbit, Misfit, and more. Unlike the Apple Watch, Android smartwatch technology is conveniently compatible with both Android smartphones and Apple iPhones. The price point for Android’s best smartwatches varies depending on the number of features you are looking for, but is typically between $150 and $300. Due to the variety of manufacturers, you have a wider range of styles and looks than you do when purchasing the Apple Watch, including plenty designed to withstand the rigors of the office and the outdoors. 

Fitness tracking

When you look at the ratings of waterproof watches, you’re usually considering extreme circumstances. But if your main focus is fitness, considering the water-resistance of a best smartwatch makes sense because of one simple factor: sweat. You want a watch that can stand up to the most intense workout, rain or shine, while also obtaining vital readings such as skin temperature, oxygen saturation, breathing rate, and heart rate. Beyond protecting those sensors, you want the watch to keep running so it can play the music and podcast you need to keep motivated. 

FAQs

Q: Which Samsung smartwatch is waterproof?

Samsung models Galaxy Fit, Galaxy Fit2, Gear S3, Galaxy Watch, Galaxy Watch3, Galaxy Watch Active, and Galaxy Watch Active2 offer protection from water. Waterproof Samsung smartwatches can survive for up to 30 minutes in water 5 feet deep or shallower. Luckily, that will keep your watch safe during most common uses, including casual swimming. Samsung smartwatches, like most smartwatches, are not completely waterproof. Many smartwatches are marketed as waterproof, even though there are limitations to this waterproofing. According to Samsung’s website, if used in saltwater, you should rinse your watch off afterward with fresh water. Also, note that Samsung watches are not designed for scuba diving.

Q: Which smartwatch is best for swimming?

Water ratings let you know the amount of water resistance or waterproofing your watch has, therefore helping you select the appropriate watch for your lifestyle. Swimmers should look for a minimum 5ATM-rated watch, which can withstand pressures of up to 50 meters deep. A 10ATM watch can handle up to 100 meters of pressure, and is a great choice if your swimming also includes diving and high-speed water sports. Garmin makes a nice selection of top smartwatches for swimming with 5ATM and higher levels of water protection. Some watches, such as the Apple Watch also have swim-specific tracking modes if you typically work out in the pool. The highest level of protection will be found on Dive watches, which can be found for as little as $200, though the best are typically closer to $1,000 or more.

Q: Are waterproof smartwatches worth it?

Waterproof smartwatches are worth it for most people because their improved durability will likely extend the lifespan of your device. While top smartwatches are great for a host of features, like playing music, using apps, and checking email, most consumers enjoy some of the great fitness and active lifestyle features included with these devices. Having waterproofing allows you to keep your smartwatch on for swimming, showers, handwashing, rainstorms, or any other unexpected water encounters. 

The final word on choosing the best waterproof smartwatches

Smartwatches can feel empowering, adding technology that allows wearers to track their vitals, fitness goals, sleep, and stress. Rugged smartwatches can be taken off the grid and offer users trackback maps and GPS-aided navigation, while simpler models help keep us all connected and motivated for a healthier active lifestyle. And the best waterproof smartwatches make sure that this motivation doesn’t end at the shoreline or when it rains. 

The post The best waterproof smartwatches of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best Garmin smartwatches for 2023, tested and reviewed https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-garmin-smartwatch/ Sat, 29 May 2021 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=368581
Best Garmin smartwatches sliced header
Tony Ware

Garmin smartwatches include sleep tracking, GPS, wellness monitoring, step trackers, and so much more. Here's how to pick the best features and fashions for you.

The post The best Garmin smartwatches for 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best Garmin smartwatches sliced header
Tony Ware

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A TEACHER PET blue little tikes smartwatch Little Tikes Tobi Robot Smartwatch
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A handy learning tool disguised as a digital pet.

A MONSTER DEAL Best budget: VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3 VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3
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Fun features without the high price tag make this smartwatch a smart buy.

KEEP KIDS ON TRACK Best health tracker: Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3 Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3
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A stylish activity monitor that counts sheep, strides, and strokes.

Garmin is one of the most popular smartwatch makers in the world, largely due to the multinational GPS-enabled technology company’s focus on hyper-accurate fitness tracking. While Apple still holds 30% of the global market (and over 50% of its revenue), according to a February 2023 Counterpoint Research report, Garmin has achieved a position of prominence on people’s wrists from the boardroom to the backcountry. When it comes to premium multisport wearables, Garmin is the endurance athlete’s top choice because of the depth of activities supported and battery life that can outlast almost any adventure. We’ve pulled together several of the company’s most popular products to help you find the best Garmin smartwatch to fit your lifestyle, sense of style, and budget.   

How we chose the best Garmin smartwatches

All Garmin smartwatches provide a degree of wellness metering; they measure steps, monitor your heart rate, and generally check to make sure you’re still alive. But if you take your training seriously, the best smartwatches feature activity tracking, pulse oximeters to measure the oxygen in your blood, stress metering, energy-level monitoring, sleep trackers, customizable training regiments, and challenges designed to help you improve in your favorite sports. The Garmin Connect app syncs to your iOS and Android phones, providing access to customizable coaching and a community of athletes to compete with. If you’re serious about training, durability should also trump style. You don’t want it falling apart the first time you bang the watch against a machine at the gym, or you take a hit on the playing field. And if you’re a swimmer, your watch has to be waterproof, too. We took all these factors, and more, into consideration.

The best Garmin smartwatches for 2023: Reviews & Recommendations

Once you’ve considered your specific needs, it’s time to dig into the Garmin lineup. With multiple models in different lines—including sports & fitness, outdoor recreation, swimming, fashion, luxury, and more—there are plenty of options. Here are our top picks from several categories:

Best overall: Garmin fēnix 7 Sapphire Solar

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: If you want metrics that tell you if you’re in the weeds and guidance that helps you get out of the woods, the fēnix 7 Sapphire Solar can keep up with whatever you’re up to.

Specs

  • Display: 1.3-inch sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP)
  • Touchscreen: Yes
  • Battery life with GPS: Up to 57 hours/73 hours with solar (GPS only mode)
  • Weight: 2.68 ounces

Pros

  • The battery life, which can stretch from many days to several months depending on usage and solar energy conditions
  • Touchscreen and button navigation/controls
  • The visibility in sunlight
  • The durability of the titanium body and sapphire crystal

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Bulky

The Garmin fēnix 7 Sapphire Solar is perfect for gym rats, anyone who plays a wide variety of sports, and especially people who believe new terrain equals new gains. It tracks more activities than other watches and includes advanced training features like PacePro for grade-adjusted pace guidance throughout an activity. Plus, the heart monitor works underwater. Adventurous athletes will appreciate the preloaded TopoActive maps (updateable via Wi-Fi), ski maps for more than 2,000 ski resorts, and a multiband global navigation satellite system. Whether it’s jet lag or running laps, the sensor-packed smartwatch gives you insight into your body’s battery (tracking everything from heart rate and blood oxygen to respiration and sleep to stress and hydration). The downside: It’s predictably expensive and chunky. The upsides, though …

Watches need to be charged. Most of Garmin’s smartwatches plug into a wall via a proprietary multi-pin USB cable (don’t lose it!) that attaches to the back of the case. At the higher end of the product line, these watches run for about 26 hours under a constantly tracking GPS load or 173 days in battery-saver mode. However, if you’re someone who spends a lot of time outdoors—whether hiking, gardening, or running, for instance—Garmin’s solar watches can extend that time, well, almost indefinitely. Garmin uses what the company calls “Power Glass,” which is integrated behind tough Corning Gorilla Glass 3 in the standard Solar edition or Power Sapphire in the upgraded flagship (shown catching sunlight on a crisp January hike above), to turn a few hours of direct light into days of use. As a bonus, the Power Glass doesn’t take up real estate on the watch’s face, leaving ample room for all the other information Garmin’s watches provide. 

As its name suggests, the Garmin Solar watches can be powered by the sun; three hours of direct light is enough to keep one running. It’s a boon for outdoor enthusiasts, especially athletic ones who will appreciate the robust set of activity trackers, personal coaching, and other wellness features. It’s a great fitness watch, but the fēnix 7 Sapphire Solar isn’t the prettiest of Garmin’s premium products because it lacks the advanced AMOLED touchscreen found on the Garmin epix (Gen. 2)—though that vivid display (shown below on the same winter day in a bit of shade for comparison) means the epix can’t match the fēnix 7 in battery life even though it’s otherwise as full-featured. Though a week or two, depending on mode, ain’t bad and more than enough if most of your training and traveling centers around convenient recharging stations.  

Garmin epix (Gen. 2) on a wrist while hiking in the shade
Tony Ware

Best running watch: Forerunner 955 Solar

Abby Ferguson

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Why it made the cut: The Forerunner 955 Solar offers excellent battery life with a seemingly endless list of features and capabilities, from training and safety tools to full smartwatch abilities and countless customization options. 

Specs

  • Display: 1.3-inch transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP)
  • Touchscreen: Yes
  • Battery life with GPS: Up to 42 hours/49 hours with solar (GPS only mode)
  • Weight: 1.86 ounces

Pros

  • Long-lasting battery life
  • A plethora of sensors for lots of data
  • Full smartwatch capabilities
  • Touchscreen

Cons

  • Solar charging doesn’t add much to battery life

If you are serious about improvising your fitness and performance, a watch with many sensors is a must. There’s no such thing as too much data for such athletes. That’s where the Forerunner 955 Solar comes in. It’s jam-packed with just about every sensor you could imagine so that you can measure everything from heart rate to stride length and even REM sleep.

Garmin then uses all that data to provide training suggestions and status updates via the watch and the Garmin Connect app. It helps prevent overtraining, offers a rough guide for improving your performance, and suggests workout ideas to keep your training fresh (as we found out in our full review). Your Forerunner 955 can even give predictions on race times for different distances. It’s essentially like having a coach right there on your wrist (or in your pocket).

Beyond fitness tracking, the watch also pairs with your phone for full smartwatch capabilities. It will give you notifications for calls, texts, and all your apps and even let you send some preformatted responses right from the watch. And you’ll have access to important safety features for runners so that they can track your progress on an activity (LiveTrack), and you can quickly request help (Assistance).

Best for hiking: Instinct 2 Solar and Instinct 2S Solar

Abby Ferguson

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Why it made the cut: The Instinct 2 Solar provides truly impressive battery life and rugged design for those who seek out long adventures.

Specs

  • Display: 0.79 x 0.79-inch or 0.9 x 0.9-inch monochrome, sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP)
  • Touchscreen: No
  • Battery life with GPS: Up to 30 hours/48 hours with solar
  • Weight: 1.52 ounces or 1.86 ounces

Pros

  • Ridiculous battery life
  • Available in two sizes
  • Robust fitness tracking and health features
  • Garmin Pay compatible

Cons

  • Black and white display 
  • Detailed maps and graphs don’t show up well

Hiking—especially long hikes and backpacking—requires more from a watch than many other activities. Battery life, in particular, is critical. Recording with GPS for long periods can eat through battery life, and having your hike recording disappear because of a dead battery is extremely frustrating. The Instinct 2 Solar attempts to solve this with its absurdly long battery life. For example, in Expedition mode, you can get up to 105 days of battery with the right solar conditions.

Part of the long battery life is thanks to the rather simple monochrome display. It’s not a fancy color touchscreen like some of the more premium Garmin watches, but it’s easily visible even in bright sunlight and fits the rugged design of the watch. Additionally, the Instinct Solar 2 comes in two case sizes: 40mm or 45mm. That’s especially ideal for those with tiny wrists who don’t want a giant watch (like me, for instance). And a newer Instinct 2X Solar has been released with a larger bezel for those who prefer a larger display and longer battery life, so now there are three size options within the family.

The watch comes with more basic sensors, including heart rate, barometric altimeter, accelerometer, thermometer, pulse ox monitor, compass, and a few GPS modes. Even though it doesn’t have as many sensors as the more expensive watches, it still provides training details, statuses, and suggestions to improve your fitness without thinking much about it. 

Best for diving: Garmin Descent G1 Solar

Abby Ferguson

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Why it made the cut: The solar capabilities of the Descent G1 Solar prolong the battery life, allowing you to stay out longer while recording your dives. Plus, it offers a full suite of freediver-friendly features to keep you safe and help you improve your apnea performance. 

Specs

  • Display: 0.9 x 0.9-inch monochrome, sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP)
  • Touchscreen: No
  • Battery life with GPS: Up to 26 hours/39 hours with solar
  • Weight: 2.32 ounes

Pros

  • Excellent battery life and fast charging
  • Dive features are intuitive and easy to use
  • Very customizable
  • Pairs with other Garmin fitness devices like heart rate monitors and power meters

Cons

  • Monochrome screen
  • Not as sleek as the more premium Garmin dive watch

While most forms of exercise overlap with what you would want from a watch, diving presents a unique situation. Environmental conditions such as tide and weather are even more critical when diving, and different data types are useful to stay safe. The Garmin Descent G1 Solar is a robust and rugged dive computer and exercise watch that is water-rated to 100 meters. It’s the ideal tool for those who dive but don’t want a separate device for exercise on land.

This watch can keep you updated on the current tide, surf, and weather conditions, provides GPS coordinates of your surface entry and exit points, and can pair with the Garmin InReach communication device. All these features will help keep you safe even if you are in a remote location. Plus, you’ll get up to 25 hours of battery life in dive mode, so you won’t have to worry about your watch dying mid-dive session.

The Descent G1 Solar comes loaded with multiple types of diving, including single and multiple gas dives (including nitrox and trimix), gauge, apnea, apnea hunt, and closed-circuit rebreather. But it’s also ready for just about any other type of activity, from running to cycling and even hunting and yoga. My husband has been using this watch for six months and said it is a fantastic partner to have with you in the field (or in the water) on long days.

Best fashion wearable: Garmin Venu 2 

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Specs

  • Display: 1.3-inch AMOLED optional always-on mode
  • Touchscreen: No
  • Battery life with GPS: Up to 22 hours (GPS without music); 11 days as just a smartwatch
  • Weight: 1.73 ounces

Sometimes you want a smartwatch that is less focused on your workouts but can keep you up on work while you’re out. While keeping track of your steps, etc., is valuable, sometimes you want to control your watch and control your life. The Garmin Connect app allows the company’s watches to sync to iOS and Android phones via a robust Bluetooth connection. This opens up advanced wellness features and biometric tracking, as well as a way to further customize the watch’s features. But what I really love is how syncing the two lets me subtly check my messages and calendar alerts by simply glancing at my wrist. I can also control my music, navigate through a new city, and many other things I’d normally use my phone for—all while keeping my hands free. Now, reaching into my back pocket for anything other than answering a call seems like a waste, even when not working out.

The Venu 2 features a colorful, touch-sensitive AMOLED display that’s as easy to read as it is to navigate. This is great because the smartwatch is loaded with features, including activity tracking, a powerful GPS, onboard storage for up to 650 songs, and seamless integration with your smartphone via the Garmin Connect app. This is a watch you can wear all day, in any setting, and it’ll never look out of place (and you can read more about the experience in our full review).

Best budget watch for beginners: Garmin Vivoactive 4

Garmin

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Specs

  • Display: 1.3-inch sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP)
  • Touchscreen: No
  • Battery life with GPS: Up to 18 hours (GPS without music)
  • Weight: 1.78 ounces

Pay attention to your budget when choosing a smartwatch. If you don’t need advanced features, like solar power, and AMOLED screens, then don’t pay extra for them. If you’re looking for a basic fitness tracker and something that syncs with your phone, many of Garmin’s entry-level watches will suit you just fine. 

They still offer basic sports apps, GPS, and access to apps and widgets from the Garmin Connect store, and they’ll integrate with iOS and Android phones. While future-proofing yourself might seem smart, smartwatch technology develops quickly and by the time you’re ready for more advanced features, watches featuring them might drop in price. Only pay for what you’ll use. 

Garmin’s Vivoactive 3 GPS smartwatch features built-in sports apps, a contactless payment system, and the ability to sync with compatible smartphones. It comes housed in a classy package that looks great in the gym and out and about, and the watch face can be personalized by visiting Garmin’s Connect IQ store.

What to consider when choosing a Garmin smartwatch

After holding the pandemic at bay with packaged cookies and streaming TV, people have been reintroducing regular exercise and movement into their lives in living rooms, gyms, trails, and beyond. And achieving goals is easier if you can accurately track them. However, if you’re not a hardcore athlete, you don’t need the same features someone training to hit specific benchmarks would. When choosing the best Garmin watch, focus on finding the health monitoring features you want without paying extra money for those you’ll never use. Here are some things to think about when choosing the best Garmin activity tracker:

Features

Are you looking for a simple workout tracker, or do you need advanced metrics? Will it be closely monitoring your health? How important is the sleep tracker function? Do you prefer a fitness watch that allows you to organize your life by providing access to your phone’s messages and calendars? Will you pay for things by tapping your watch? Download and play music, or control the music player on your phone? How important are GPS features? Different watches offer different combinations of these features and more. There’s a big difference between something like the $199 Garmin Forerunner 55 (reviewed here) or the $169 Garmin Forerunner 35, which are dedicated Garmin running watches, and something like the $399 Garmin Venu 2, which is more of a well-rounded smartwatch you’ll wear all the time.

Style

Many of Garmin’s best sports watches aren’t exactly elegant to look at. Think about when and where you plan on wearing your watch. Do you like the bulky aesthetic of classic sports watches, like the Garmin Instinct Solar, or do you want a watch you can wear all day—maybe even going straight to work from the gym? Don’t forget to look at the different color options available to each watch model, and keep in mind that watch bands are often customizable.  

Battery life

Do you spend a lot of time camping? Do you go weeks without seeing an outlet? Or are you home each night with access to a charging station? Make sure the watch you purchase won’t let you down by running out of juice. This doesn’t necessarily mean larger batteries—Garmin makes solar versions of most watch series that can last for weeks if exposed to enough direct sunlight. For other watches, battery life can come down to usage. The Venu 2, for instance, can last up to 11 days in battery-saver mode, but it will die in just 7 hours if you’re playing music and using GPS. 

FAQs

Q: Is Garmin better than Apple Watch?

Everyone’s definition of “better” will differ. In the end, choosing the best smartwatch comes down to the features you want, your budget, and whether you’re already part of the Apple ecosystem. While Apple far and away controls the largest market share for smartwatches, Garmin has a solid chunk by offering a variety of GPS and sports watches geared toward different users’ needs. There is undoubtedly no easier experience than pairing an Apple Watch with an iPhone for seamless connectivity and maximum productivity. And the Apple Watch Ultra has ratcheted up the brand’s durability for endurance athletes. But if you’re looking for a serious training tool, however, something like the Garmin epix (Gen. 2) could offer some handy training features that the Apple Watch can’t.

Q: What is the best value Garmin watch?

Again, it comes down to what you want your watch to do and how much you can afford to spend. The Venu SQ 2 starts at just $249. While it lacks some of the high-end bells and whistles found on the $399 Venu 2, the Venu SQ 2 still offers an impressive set of features for the price, including a blood oxygen monitor and sleep tracking. If you don’t need full smartwatch capabilities and you specifically want to track your runs, then Forerunner 45 is only $150 and gets you tons of fitness tracking muscle without the stuff you may not use. 

If you want a full feature set without such a bulky frame, the Garmin Vivoactive 4S is a solid balance of value and performance. At $349, it’s cheaper than the flagship models but more expensive than the entry-level offerings.

Q: Are Garmin watches worth it?

If you’re looking for a convenient way to track your activities and monitor your health, and you like the idea of a more subtle way to control your phone and receive messages and alerts, then I absolutely think Garmin watches are worth it. The best Garmin smartwatches offer top-tier tools for training and fitness, sleep trackers are the like, and the Garmin Connect app for iOS and Android opens up a host of features that push the watch in powerful directions. If you’re already in the Apple ecosystem, an Apple watch is definitely worth investigating; Apple products have a way of seamlessly integrating that makes them a delight to use. However, even if you’ve got an iPhone, and especially if you’re using an Android phone, Garmins are strong contenders in the smartwatch field. 

Final thoughts on the best Garmin smartwatches

It’s no mystery why Garmin has become a top smartwatch company. Instead of taking a one-size-fits-all approach to watch design, Garmin has offered up options focusing on health and fitness, all-day wear, and high-tech gadgetry designed to fit individual users’ lifestyles. Sometimes the differences aren’t obvious, and shopping for a Garmin watch can feel daunting. But by identifying your needs first and consulting this guide, you’ll be able to zero in on the smartwatch that’s best for you. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best Garmin smartwatches for 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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Amazfit Band 7 fitness & health tracker review: Back to basics https://www.popsci.com/gear/amazfit-band-7-fitness-health-tracker-review/ Mon, 17 Apr 2023 21:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=534514
The Amazfit Band 7 is a minimal yet capable fitness watch.
The running stats displayed on the Band 7 help keep me and my pup, Athena, on target for our workouts. Abby Ferguson

The Amazfit Band 7 is a simple and budget-friendly fitness tracker that still offers plenty of health insights.

The post Amazfit Band 7 fitness & health tracker review: Back to basics appeared first on Popular Science.

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The Amazfit Band 7 is a minimal yet capable fitness watch.
The running stats displayed on the Band 7 help keep me and my pup, Athena, on target for our workouts. Abby Ferguson

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The rise of smartwatches has made health and fitness tracking seem inherently more expensive. Even fairly straightforward watches containing only the most basic sensors tend to be pricey. There used to be many budget options when “Fitbit” was synonymous with fitness tracker, but many seem to have disappeared as convergence devices have increased. Enter Amazfit. The company is relatively new (established in 2015) but already has a robust lineup of budget-friendly activity accessories. And with the Amazfit Band 7, the brand has a bracelet-style tracker that takes a step back from pricier smartwatches so you can track your steps (and other performance metrics) as you move toward your fitness goals. Let’s take a close look at the conveniences and compromises that accompany a $50 fitness watch.

Abby Ferguson

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The Amazfit Band 7’s design

While all of Amazfit’s watches are more affordable than most options, the Band 7 falls in Amazfit’s Essential Series lineup, which, as you might guess, is its lowest tier. The Band 7 follows in the footsteps of the Band 5 (there was no Band 6) but presents a larger, more rectangular display, better battery life, and some general software upgrades. There’s no built-in GPS, and there are minor usability issues, but the compromises are minimal and, for most, insignificant. The watch is surprisingly capable for such a low price, with a good amount of health data and tracking opportunities. What it is not, however, is flashy.

Minimal is the best word to use when describing the design of the Amazfit Band 7. It is a simple rectangular shape with no buttons or design flourishes whatsoever. The band is one seamless piece that secures the watch face, with no special design or color inserts. The stock models are available in beige, pink, or black (the color I received to review). Should you want something else, you can also buy $10 replacement straps in green, blue, pink, or orange. 

The watch strap connects with a snap button-type design. That makes it easier to put on, but I also had issues with the edge catching on things resulting in the band unsnapping and the watch coming loose on my wrist. The band is also fairly large. I have small wrists, yes, but I used the second to last hole. Amazfit lists the minimum wrist size as 6.5 inches. So if you have smaller wrists than that, you’ll likely want to stay away from the Band 7 unless you don’t mind wearing it higher on your arm. 

Although the band may be a bit long, the watch itself is really slim. It only measures 1.7 x 1 x 0.5 inches, so it looks great, even on my miniature wrists. And it’s low-profile enough that the watch face doesn’t get caught on long sleeves. 

The lack of buttons is either really great or really annoying, depending on your preferences. It was a bit of both for me. I like the sleek look of a button-free design. But there were definitely times when having a button would have been nice. For example, if the watch turns off—either because I turn it off or it goes to sleep after not being worn for a few days—you have to connect the watch to a charger to turn it back on because there’s no power button. I found this very annoying, especially if I wanted to pop out for a run or walk. 

Amazfit Band 7 smartwach
The snap-style band closure tends to catch on things and come undone.

Display

Despite the budget price, the watch features a rather nice display. It’s a 1.47-inch HD ​​AMOLED display with a resolution of 198×368, 282ppi, and very minimal bezels. I really like the narrow rectangular design, as it provides enough screen real estate to see things easily but doesn’t take up my entire wrist to do so. It just looks really nice to me. 

It’s a colorful display and is easy to see in most situations. You have to adjust brightness manually, though, which is tricky if the brightness is turned down and you are out in the sun. You can adjust that setting in the app, but that’s a bit of a pain if you are on a run, for example. The screen is topped with tempered glass and an anti-fingerprint coating. Tempered glass isn’t as durable as other options, such as Gorilla Glass. Yet I haven’t managed to scratch the Band 7 display despite scratching my more expensive, Gorilla Glass-topped Garmin Forerunner 955

As you may expect, since there are no buttons, the display is a touchscreen, so you can swipe and tap through menus and settings. It is plenty responsive; in fact, I had issues with it being too responsive. When I crossed my arms, there was enough pressure to activate the touchscreen and enter the menu to change the watch face. It got quite irritating. 

Sensors

Amazfit fitted the Band 7 with its ​​BioTracker 3.0 PPG biometric sensor. Put simply, PPG sensors use low infrared light to measure how much light is absorbed by blood vessels. This provides a constant measurement of heart rate and blood oxygen levels (SpO2). It can also use that data to calculate and track VO2 Max, stress levels, and sleep. You will have to turn on settings to automatically track SpO2, as it defaults to only manual measurement.

The watch also utilizes a geomagnetic sensor and a three-axis acceleration sensor. It connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth 5.2 BLE, and that’s the extent of its sensors and connectivity. 

One of the aforementioned compromises due to the budget price is the lack of GPS connectivity in the watch itself. Instead, it relies on tethered GPS, meaning you’ll need your phone for all GPS data. That leads to some accuracy issues compared to watches with built-in GPS, especially multi-band GPS like the Garmin Instinct 2S Solar. If you want your route tracked or need distance data, you must have your phone along. And even with your phone, distance and route information won’t be as accurate as watches with GPS. 

Setting up the Amazfit Band 7

Setting up the Amazfit Band 7 is mostly straightforward, albeit a bit tedious. Most of the setup process is done on your phone in the Zepp app (Amazfit is powered by Zepp Health’s health management platform). The initial pairing process with my Samsung Galaxy S22 was very easy, with a simple scan of a QR code on the watch using the app. 

From there, however, things get a little bit complicated and a lot annoying. You have to grant a lot of permissions, more than any other watch platform I’ve used before. It seemed to go on forever. I also had a really hard time finding some of the menus for permissions that the Zepp app specified. It mentioned menus that simply do not exist on my phone, even though it says it’s specific to the phone manufacturer. Then, if you want to get notifications on your watch, you have to go through each individual app that you want notifications from. Which, again, was a bit tedious. 

The Amazfit Band 7’s features

As a budget device, you’d expect the Band 7 to be extremely limited in functionality and abilities. And while it certainly doesn’t have as robust a feature set as a $500 watch, the watch is surprisingly feature-rich for $50. It won’t be a replacement for serious athletes that need highly accurate information and robust tools, but it’s more than capable for most people. 

Battery life

The battery life on the Band 7 is quite surprising, given the low price of the watch. The watch offers a 232 mAh rated capacity, and Amazfit promises up to 18 days of battery life with typical usage. It says heavy usage will result in up to 12 days of battery life. Of course, all this depends on your watch settings as well, as the always-on display and certain settings like stress measuring will eat away at battery life. 

In my testing, I got an average of 16 days of battery life. I typically do one dedicated workout (either a run or strength training session) a day with anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour of duration. And I generally track a few short walks per day on top of that because of my dog. I did not have the always-on display running because I wanted to save the battery more, which greatly affected how much battery life I could get.

When the battery did run out, I was able to charge the watch quickly. Amazfit claims that the theoretical charging duration is two hours, and I found that to be accurate. If I needed a quick top-off before a workout, 15 minutes of charging would give me enough juice to record an hour-long session. The charger uses a magnetic design. In line with the watch’s design, it’s a tiny charger, making it easier to bring along on trips than other watches I’ve used. 

Amazfit Band 7
The Band 7 is capable of tracking plenty of different workout types. Abby Ferguson

Activity tracking

The Amazfit Band 7 can track 120 different types of activities. That includes the basics like outdoor and indoor running, hiking, and cycling. But it also can track badminton, belly and square dancing, jumping rope, jiu-jitsu, and even kite-flying or swinging. Essentially, if there’s an activity you want to do, chances are there’s a unique profile for it on the Amazfit Band 7. 

Tracking is easy, though, by default, the workout widget (where all the activities are) is quite low in the list, so you’ll need to scroll a bit. I thought that was an odd default placement since that’s one of the main reasons to get a watch like this. But you can customize that placement in the Zepp app. Then, you simply tap on Workout and choose the type of workout you want. 

Before you start tracking, you can also adjust settings by tapping the ellipses above the “Go” button. For example, for outdoor running, you can set a workout goal (miles, time, or calories). You can set workout alerts for different metrics like high heart rate or minimum pace. And you can even set the watch up for interval training, which is a nice feature. 

Data collection and insights

The Band 7 is fairly limited in sensors, but it offers the most important ones for basic insights: a  PPG biometric sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, and a three-axis acceleration sensor. It uses these three sensors to collect and calculate heart rate, SpO2, VO2 Max, and stress levels. 

The watch can also track your sleep, breaking it down to give you insights into how long you slept, REM sleep, and how often you were awake during the night. While it doesn’t apply this information to your training, and it isn’t highly accurate, it can at least give you a rough idea of your sleep.

Your training information and data provide a few key insights: PAI and Training Status. PAI, or Personal Activity Intelligence, uses a simple 100-point scale to reflect how active you are, with the goal of keeping it at or above 100 to reduce your risk of disease. It is based on an algorithm that assesses your age, gender, resting heart rate, maximum heart rate, and accumulated heart rate over seven days. Because an algorithm powers it, it’s dynamic and based on you as an individual instead of using generalizations.

While Training Status and PAI are enough for most users, The Band 7 and Zepp app won’t provide the in-depth data and insights serious athletes want or need. For example, Garmin (what I’m most familiar with) provides training stats such as the training effect of each individual workout, power curves, race predictions, training readiness, and heart rate variability (HRV) information. Most of that isn’t relevant to those simply trying to stay active and healthy, but if you want focused training for performance reasons, the Amazfit Band 7 and companion app likely won’t cut it. 

Smartwatch features

On top of all the fitness tracking, the Band 7 provides some smartwatch functionality. It doesn’t provide cellular connectivity, and there is no microphone, which limits its capabilities, though that’s to be expected at this price point. But you can get notifications on the watch from your smartphone from just about any app you use. You can’t interact with those notifications in any way, but you can at least see them to know if it’s something important enough to pick up your phone.

Beyond notifications, the watch also provides access to weather information. And if you are playing music on your phone, you can control it from the watch. I really liked that feature while in the gym working out. If a song started in my UE Fits earbuds that I didn’t want, I could just hit next right on my wrist instead of needing to pick up my phone and sweatily navigate to Spotify. 

Zepp app

The Zepp app is clean and clutter-free, with three primary tabs containing settings and data that you may need. The Homepage of the app features data cards to give you snapshots of what you most want to keep track of. For example, it can show steps, sleep, workout history, exercise status, and more. You can customize this, both in terms of which cards are shown and their order, which is nice. 

The Health tab is also customizable, though with far fewer options. It primarily shows you a breakdown of your workouts and your target goals (which you can edit). Since all of this can be found on the Homepage, it’s a bit confusing that a separate tab is needed.

The third tab is your Profile, which gives you access to settings, goals, connected accounts, and more. It’s also where you access your devices to change device-specific settings.

The app runs very smoothly on my Samsung Galaxy, and it’s quick to sync the watch when I make changes via the app as well. It doesn’t provide as in-depth insights as the Garmin app and doesn’t offer the social component Garmin does, but Zepp works well and provides basic and necessary information. 

Garmin Forerunner 955 and Amazfit Band 7 watches
The distance data from the Band 7 isn’t very accurate since it relies on a connected phone’s GPS. Here you can see it compared to the Garmin Forerunner 955, which has multi-band GPS. Abby Ferguson

The Amazfit Band 7’s usability and accuracy 

Overall, the Amazfit Band 7 is straightforward to use. It has its quirks—such as a lack of buttons for input—that make getting used to it a little tricky at first. But most of the controls are intuitive and easy to figure out. The sensitive touchscreen can be a bit annoying but is small in the grand scheme of things. 

One aspect that I really love about the Amazfit Band 7 is that it provides help text on the watch itself for certain data sets and features. For example, under Workout Status, if you tap the “i” at the bottom of the screen, a rather thorough explanation of EPOC pops up. Since the budget-friendly watch is largely geared toward those who aren’t exercise experts, these terms may be completely new. Explaining what they mean and why they are important right on the watch is extremely helpful and valuable. 

I found the watch’s heart rate monitor to be very accurate, even compared to a dedicated heart rate monitor, which is typically more precise. Likewise, the calculated VO2 Max was in the range it should be for me, though I plan on getting a lab test done for a truly accurate comparison. 

I rarely find sleep tracking very accurate, and that was the case with the Amazfit Band 7. There were nights it seemed spot on, but most of the time, it seemed at least slightly off, and nights it was completely incorrect as well. It also tends to think I’m taking a nap if I take the watch off for more than a few minutes.

How the Amazfit Band 7 stacks up against the competition

There’s no shortage of fitness watches available, with even Amazfit’s own line of devices quite lengthy. I’ve also been using Amazfit’s T-Rex 2. At $200, the T-Rex 2 is still quite a bargain compared to the likes of a Garmin, though it’s four times more expensive than the Band 7. And in most ways, the price difference is noticeable. The T-Rex 2 is decidedly more aggressive looking and significantly larger. It’s much more rugged, having passed 15 Military-Standards Tests (MIL-STD-810G) to withstand harsh conditions. And it comes with more health data and built-in dual-band positioning. You get a lot more watch in the T-Rex 2, albeit in a very different style that isn’t for everyone.

Garmin’s fitness watches tend to be one of the gold standard options for athletes, and the prices certainly match that. The company has done a fantastic job of managing health and fitness data to provide useful and accurate information for training purposes. Amazfit does a nice job of providing useful insights, but it isn’t as thorough as Garmin, especially in the minimal Band 7 watch. Garmin’s watches offer more robust feature sets and data tracking than the Band 7, yet still offer battery life that’s nearly as much as the simpler Band 7.

Amazfit Band 7 and Amazfit T-Rex 2 watches on a wrist
The Band 7 is much more minimal than Amazfit’s dual-band positioning higher-end T-Rex 2. Abby Ferguson

So, who should buy the Amazfit Band 7?

I must admit that I was pleasantly surprised by the Amazfit Band 7. After exclusively using fairly expensive fitness watches for the past 10 years, I assumed that such a budget-level watch would be lacking and less impressive. But that was not the case. 

The Band 7 has some big wins, no matter what price point you are looking at. It sports a sleek design, lengthy battery life, accurate heart rate measurement, music controls, plenty of fitness-focused features, and a wide array of activity types. Of course, with the low price comes some disadvantages: No built-in GPS, a finicky touchscreen, and a cheap band enclosure design. It also doesn’t provide as in-depth training insights or data compared to more expensive watches. As a result, it isn’t great for serious, focused athletes looking for specific performance improvements. But it offers much more than the $50 price would lead you to believe. 

So who’s the Band 7 ideal for? It’s a fantastic choice for those looking for a simple device that can help encourage them to be more active. Not everyone needs access to race predictions and hyper-accurate pace and stride information. But the Amazfit Band 7 can help you learn more about exercise terms and support you in keeping tabs on your activity levels to work toward a healthier, more active lifestyle. And it can do this while functioning as a general smartwatch, making it even more well-rounded. 

The post Amazfit Band 7 fitness & health tracker review: Back to basics appeared first on Popular Science.

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Garmin announces an even more rugged Instinct smartwatch https://www.popsci.com/gear/garmin-instinct-2x-solar-news/ Wed, 12 Apr 2023 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=533494
Garmin Instinct 2X Solar family
The new Instinct 2X Solar is available in four colors. Garmin

The newest Garmin fitness watch is built for extended adventures.

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Garmin Instinct 2X Solar family
The new Instinct 2X Solar is available in four colors. Garmin

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Garmin is keeping the ball rolling, and you running, this year with exciting releases. The company released two vibrant new watches in its Forerunner series in March. And now, Garmin has announced the newest product in its rugged, adventure-focused Instinct line: the Instinct 2X Solar and the Instinct 2X Solar Tactical Edition (shown below). The new smartwatches get many improvements and exciting editions compared to the Instinct 2 Solar, including even better solar charging and a more rugged, durable design. It’s also the first Instinct to feature a built-in flashlight and the Obstacle Course Racing activity type. We really enjoyed the Instinct 2 Solar, and this adventure watch looks even better. 

Garmin

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Garmin Instinct training features

In keeping with Garmin’s wearables, the 2X series has robust training features and tools. It offers 24/7 health and wellness tracking, including wrist-based heart rate, sleep monitoring, respiration tracking, heart rate variability, Pulse Ox, and more. 

There’s a vast range of sports and activity types, so you can track whatever you like to do to stay active. New in the Instinct line is the Obstacle Course Racing activity. This new activity mode lets you manually record obstacle splits and automatically track them after your first lap. The data from the activity will include the number of runs on a course, times, the number of obstacles, time spent on each obstacle, basic run metrics, and more. If you’re a fan of Tough Mudders, Spartan Race, or the new military-inspired obstacle competitions, this watch will be a big help. 

You’ll also have access to Garmin’s Training Readiness and Morning Report features. These help you plan and maximize your training and maximize to ensure healthy, well-balanced progress. And the multi-band GNSS provides highly accurate positioning to give you price route information and even navigation tools.

Garmin Instinct 2X Solar details

The Instinct 2X Solar gets some very exciting upgrades from the Instinct 2 Solar. It is even more rugged and built to U.S. military standards (MIL-STD-810). The 50mm polymer case—10mm larger than the Instinct 2 Solar—will withstand just about anything you throw at it.

One of my complaints with the Instinct 2 Solar was that the solar charging didn’t give all that much of a benefit. But Garmin says that the Power Glass lens on the Instinct 2X Solar (both the standard and Tactical Edition) will produce 50% more energy than the Instinct 2 Solar. It requires three hours of direct sunlight, but that’s a significant improvement and should mean that solar charging actually results in a real addition to battery life.

This watch’s other exciting new feature is the built-in LED flashlight (shown below). It even offers variable intensities and strobe modes. It could be a significant asset for hiking or any sort of activity in the backcountry, especially in emergency situations. 

Instinct 2X Solar flashlight shining into a backpack—Garmin lifestyle photography cropped
Garmin

Garmin Instinct 2X Solar Tactical Edition details

The Tactical Edition of the Instinct 2X Solar gets the same training features, sensors, and build qualities as the standard edition. But on top of that, Garmin says it is also “packed with features specific to tactical operations, including Jumpmaster and tactical preloaded activities.” It features a Stealth Mode, which prevents GPS location sharing and disables wireless communication. And the built-in multi-LED flashlight can be set to either white or dedicated green, resulting in natural vision at night.

Garmin Instinct 2X Solar pricing & availability

The Instinct 2X Solar is available in four colors: Flame Red, Graphite, Moss, and Whitestone. It’s available for purchase now for $449.99. The Instinct 2X Solar Tactical Edition is also available now for $499.99 in two colors: Black or Coyote Tan. 

The post Garmin announces an even more rugged Instinct smartwatch appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best blue light glasses of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-blue-light-glasses/ Fri, 25 Jun 2021 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=374600
A lineup of the best blue light glasses on a blue and white background.
Amanda Reed

We’re all worried about screen time's effect on our body parts and patterns. Could blocking blue light be an answer?

The post The best blue light glasses of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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A lineup of the best blue light glasses on a blue and white background.
Amanda Reed

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Best overall Two pairs of TIJN blue light glasses on a blue and white background TIJN Blue Light Blocking Glasses
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With 32 colors to choose from, you’ll find a pair—or two—that are perfect for you.

Best for gaming A pair of yellow tinted glasses on a blue and white background. GUNNAR Razer Edition Gaming Glasses
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A yellowish tint prevents eye strain for endless KOs.

Best budget A pair of blue light glasses with a translucent frame on a blue and white background MAXJULI Blue Light Blocking Glasses
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A pair of blue light glasses can be yours for just under $10.

Here’s the pitch for blue light glasses: our screens emit all kinds of light, notably blue, and this light, the argument goes, can affect your eye health, your sleeping patterns, and your health. Blue light glasses—technically, they should be called “blue light blocking glasses”—filter out blue light, letting in the other wavelengths of light, thus theoretically reducing the danger that blue light presents. We’re all spending more time staring at glowing rectangular screens than ever before—and, frankly, more than we ever wanted to. You may have experienced headaches, dry eyes, and other uncomfortable symptoms, or you may just assume that all of this screen time simply can’t be good for our vision. The best blue light glasses can alleviate these symptoms without cramping your style.

How we chose the best blue light glasses

Not all blue light glasses are created equal. Whether using them to protect your eyes from the blue light emitted from your eReader while getting in some pre-bedtime reading or to stop your daytime computer use from keeping you up at night, a good pair of blue light glasses should be able to do it all. We looked at reviews, recommendations, conducted our own testing (read: wore a bunch of blue light blocking glasses), and researched heavily to separate the flops from the favorites.

The best blue light glasses: Reviews & Recommendations

Blue light can get a bad rep: If it’s so bad, then why does the sun emit blue light? And being exposed to sunlight has multiple benefits! And wearing blue light glasses isn’t the only way to reduce eye strain. Consider blue light glasses a tool in your arsenal to reduce eye strain and blue light exposure—one of our options should have you seeing clearly in no time.

Best overall: TIJN Blue Light Blocking Glasses

TIJN

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Specs

  • One size?: Yes
  • Color options: 32
  • Polarized?: No
  • Dimensions: Lens width: 53mm; Bridge width: 18mm; Arm length: 140mm

Pros

  • Lots of options available
  • Lightweight
  • Stylish

Cons

  • One size

If you’re looking for blue light glasses that are lightweight, stylish, and work, consider these from TIJN. There are 32 style options available, including pairs that come in packs of two and gaming glasses that have a yellower lens for more intense protection. Although they only come in one size, spring hinges that bend more than 90 degrees compensate for wider faces, and a keyhole bridge makes for a more comfortable fit than nose pads. You can get away with wearing them out and about (our staff writer definitely has), and they block out blue light without the lenses being noticeably yellow. The lenses are also UV400 protected to block out almost 100% of UV rays. At less than $20? Talk about an easy investment.

Best for gamers: GUNNAR Razer Edition Gaming Glasses

Gunnar

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Specs

  • One size?: Yes
  • Color options: One
  • Polarized?: No
  • Dimensions: Lens width: 57mm; Lens height: 26mm; Bridge: 18mm; Arm: 138mm

Pros

  • Patented blue light blocking tech
  • Built for gamers
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Expensive
  • One size

Gamers are among the most likely to suffer from digital eye strain; after all, they’re staring at screens very intently for hours on end. These yellow-tinted frames from GUNNAR aren’t fakeouts—they block 450nm (nanometers) of blue light and have patented lens tech to protect your eyes (look it up for yourself). They’re also designed for panoramic viewing if you game with a curved monitor. They also are compatible with gaming headsets so that you won’t get a glasses-arm-related headache and a screen headache. If you’re shopping for a young gamer, consider these HyperX Spectre Scout glasses. And if you’re looking for something more stylish, GUNNAR has computer glasses with a stylish round frame and 70s-inspired aviator glasses. If you can’t justify the price, fear not: any yellow-tinted lens will work, including these cheap wireframes our staff writer rocks on the daily.

Best stylish: Gaoye Glasses

Gaoye

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Specs

  • One size?: Yes
  • Color options: 15
  • Polarized?: No
  • Dimensions: Lens width: 52mm; Lens height: 42mm; Temple length: 140mm; Nose bridge: 14mm; Frame width: 140mm

Pros

  • Classic design
  • UV400 protection
  • Anti-reflective

Cons

  • Only available in a multiples

If you’re looking to block blue light but don’t want to look like an extra in The Matrix, this Gaoye three-pack might be right for you. Available in tons of different patterns and combinations, the square design is a classic for a reason. Plus, it’s hard to beat that price. UV400 protection gives you peace of mind out and about, and the lenses are treated with an anti-reflective coating. If you don’t believe these blue light glasses are the real deal, each pair comes with a test card: simply place the glasses in front of the card, shine the light, and see them block blue light in real-time.

Best for kids: SEEAFUN Kid’s Glasses

SEEAFUN

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Specs

  • One size?: Yes
  • Color options: 8
  • Polarized?: No
  • Dimensions: Lens Width: 48mm; Lens height: 41mm; Nose bridge: 15mm; Frame width: 125mm; Temple length: 131mm

Pros

  • Comes with adjustable lens strap
  • Cute carrying case
  • Tough for kids

Cons

  • One size

It’s not just us adults who are subjected to excessive screen time these days. Kids, whether they’re attending school remotely, working on homework, gaming, or chatting with friends, are staring at screens, too. This SEEAFUN set is perfect for kids, with cheerful colors and a fantastic car-shaped carrying case. It also comes with an adjustable lens strap if your child is prone to losing things (it’s way harder to lose something strapped tightly to your head), and the arms are flexible. They also block 400-450nm of blue light.

Best retro style: Livho Blue Light Glasses

Liveho

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Specs

  • One size?: Yes
  • Color options: 7
  • Polarized?: No
  • Dimensions: Lens width: 51mm; Lens height: 45mm; Frame width: 134mm; Temple length: 140mm; Nose bridge: 19mm

Pros

  • Glare reduction
  • Anti-scratch lenses
  • UV400 protection

Cons

  • Slightly flimsy, per reviews

After years of chunky plastic frames, wireframes have come right back around to be trendy again. So you don’t have to sacrifice style just to protect your eyes. This Livho set is available in multiple colors, all with a classic round wireframe design. They include glare reduction, anti-scratch lenses, and UV400 protection. The company also offers a 1,000-day warranty (around three years) in case you’re not satisfied with your purchase.

Best budget: MAXJULI Blue Light Blocking Glasses

MAXJULI

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Specs

  • One size?: Yes
  • Color options: 22
  • Polarized?: No
  • Dimensions: Lens width: 52mm; Lens height: 47mm; Frame width: 141 mm; Temple length: 138mm; Nose bridge: 14mm

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Cheap
  • Come in many colors

Cons

  • Reviews note they fit a little tight on the face and head

Many of the glasses on our list come in packs of two, three, or more. “I just need ONE pair of blue light blocking glasses,” you grumble to yourself, a pragmatic minimalist. Look no further than this single pair. Just one. And it will only cost you $7. Sure, it doesn’t make sense when you do the math (technically, the Gaoye glasses on the list are the best bang for your buck), but having exactly what you need without extras rotting in your office drawer makes up for technical cost-effectiveness. They work, there is one of them, and they only cost $7. That should put a smile on your face.

What to consider when buying the best blue light glasses

Thanks to both the COVID-19 pandemic and a general technological transition, more and more of us transitioned to remote/work-from-home setups, and more and more of our days are spent peering into screens. Now, with even meetings that used to be face-to-face happening as face-to-screen-to-face meetings, plus the predominance of smartphones, we’re all staring at blue light more than ever before. Here is what you should know before snagging a pair for yourself:

There’s a significant industry in making our computer time healthier; you may have spotted gadgets like under-desk bikes or standing desks or guides on proper keyboard posture and ergonomic offices. These can all help with the strain that a sedentary workspace forces on our bodies. But what about blue light glasses? 

Blue light glasses are designed to reduce what’s known as digital eye strain, or DES. There are an array of symptoms associated with DES, including headaches, dry eyes, and blurred vision. 

How effective are blue light glasses? 

We’ll start with the bad news: there is no evidence that blue light glasses have any effect on eye strain from digital screens. One recent study used blue light blocking filters, which filter out 99% of blue light from screens. These screens are far more effective than blue light glasses, which block out, at most, around 65% of blue light and more often can only block under 40%. That study tested subjects for a half-hour and found no correlation between symptoms of DES and blue light. No other study has indicated anything different. In fact, one British optician was actually fined for insinuating that blue light glasses can protect against DES, given that there’s no scientific evidence of this.

What’s more likely is that DES is caused by the overuse, or misuse, of screens. After all, the sun is a substantially more powerful purveyor of blue light than our screens, and DES isn’t associated with the decidedly analog sun at all. The general consensus is that DES is caused by spending too long, staring too hard, and sitting too close to our screens. Health experts generally recommend taking breaks to combat DES, rather than relying on blue light glasses.

But there is one thing that blue light glasses might help with. Some studies have indicated that blue light can be bad for our circadian rhythms; a review of the available studies found that it seems likely that blue light inhibits the brain’s ability to produce melatonin. In other words, exposure to blue light could make it harder to fall asleep. There haven’t been enough studies to tell if blue light glasses, worn for a few hours before bed, could help you sleep better, but it’s not out of the question.

That said, there are anecdotal reports of people loving their blue light glasses. Even if it’s just the placebo effect, well, that can be incredibly powerful, and if it works for you, keep doing it.

FAQs

Q: How much do blue light blocking glasses cost?

Depending on features, blue light blocking glasses cost between $7-$80. Those made for a specific purpose, like gaming, tend to be more expensive, but worth it if you do it frequently.

Q: Is it OK to wear blue light blocking glasses all the time?

Yep! Just like sunglasses, be aware of when you wear them—you wouldn’t wear sunglasses in a tunnel. And if they’re hurting your head, take them off and potentially look for a size that’s better for your face.

Q: Do I need to replace my blue light blocking glasses after some time?

Unless they break or the lenses get scratched, no. The lenses are infused with a pigment that mimics natural light, meaning it’s not a coating that can wear away over time.

Q: What’s the difference between power and computer glasses?

Power glasses are prescription-based. Computer glasses can have a prescription in them, but all computer glasses at least have blue light filtering abilities. You can have prescription glasses with blue light filtering lenses, and your computer glasses can have a prescription in them, just like reading glasses.

Final thoughts on the best blue light blocking glasses

The best blue light blocking glasses are equal parts stylish and helpful. Although the word is out on the science of blue light filtering, it can’t hurt to protect your eyes with a fun pair of glasses. Blue light glasses are just one of the many tools you can keep in your “stopping digital eyestrain” toolbox, along with resting your eyes for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. You’ll be sleeping soundly, better focused, and looking at things with infinitely less-dry eyes in no time.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best blue light glasses of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best Apple Watch alternatives in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-apple-watch-alternatives/ Fri, 24 Dec 2021 01:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=382954
Best Apple Watch alternatives sliced header
Tony Ware

These fitness trackers and smartwatches offer sharp looks and deep sensor integration for Android users and anyone else interested in premium wearables outside Apple's ecosystem.

The post The best Apple Watch alternatives in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best Apple Watch alternatives sliced header
Tony Ware

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall Galaxy Watch 5 smartwatch Galaxy Watch 5
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Slick styling, optional cellphone connectivity, and lots of health tracking features put this watch on top.

Best dedicated fitness tracker The Fitbit Sense 2 is a dedicated fitness tracker and smartwatch. Fitbit Sense 2
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The Fitbit Sense 2 is lightweight and slim but still offers lots of sensors and good battery life.

Best stylish smartwatch The Skagen Jorn is a stylish hybrid smartwatch Skagen Jorn Gen 6 Smartwatch
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The Skagen Jorn is a unique hybrid watch, featuring traditional watch hands with full smartwatch capabilities.

The Apple Watch was not the first connected watch. Thanks to Dick Tracy, people have been dreaming of wrist-worn communicators since the 1940s, and companies have actually produced usable companion devices since the early 2000s. But since “Apple’s most personal device ever” launched in 2015, it’s come to dominate the smartwatch market by sheer volume. However, the best wearable for everyone, especially Android users, isn’t necessarily Apple’s. Many Apple Watch alternatives provide various tech that can match and even top the Series 8 experience. Really, the phrase “Apple Watch alternative” sometimes does these gadgets a disservice. Apple’s offering is great, but other top smartwatches and fitness trackers deserve recognition for their own forms and features. The best Apple Watch alternatives satisfy all kinds of purposes: collecting health metrics, delivering notifications, tracking outdoor adventures, and much more fantastic functionality without committing to watchOS/iOS. 

How we chose the best Apple Watch alternatives

When selecting the recommendations included in this list, we evaluated a range of features, specs, and tools that make smartwatches useful and desirable. To function as an Apple Watch alternative, phone connectivity in some capacity was an absolute must. The selected watches also needed a robust array of sensors to capture important health and activity data. We aimed to choose watches with different styles since style is such a subjective topic. And lastly, we assessed important specs such as battery life, display quality, and durability. Combining this research with peer recommendations, critical reviews, and plenty of hands-on experience, we narrowed down our selection to the best Apple Watch alternatives.

The best Apple Watch alternatives: Reviews & Recommendations

The best Apple Watch alternatives are delightfully varied, and you’re sure to find one that strikes your fancy. So let’s look at the non-Apple products that can keep your phone in your pocket but your life connected.

Best overall: Galaxy Watch 5

Samsung

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Specs

  • Weight: 1.2 ounces (44mm), 1 ounce (40mm)
  • Case size: 1.7 x 1.74 x 0.38 inches (44mm), 1.54 x 1.59 x 0.38 inches (40mm)
  • Display resolution: 450×450 pixels (44mm), 396×396 pixels (40mm) 
  • Battery life: Up to 50 hours
  • Waterproof rating: IP68
  • Connectivity: BT 5.2, Wi-Fi 2.4GHz & 5GHz, NFC, LTE
  • Sensors: Accelerometer, gyroscope, barometer, ambient light, compass, GPS, BioActive sensor (Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis sensor, Electrical Heart sensor (ECG), and Optical Heart Rate sensor), mic/speaker
  • App support: Android

Pros

  • Attractive design, with swappable straps
  • Optional 4G LTE version
  • Available in two sizes
  • Plenty of health-tracking features
  • Excellent third-party app support

Cons

  • Battery life is lacking
  • Some features only work with Samsung phones

The Galaxy Watch is one of the most direct competitors to the Apple Watch. That’s partly because it is one of the few watches that offer an eSIM for cellular connectivity. The eSim and built-in mic and speakers mean you can take calls and receive and respond to text messages via the watch. You don’t need your phone on you all the time to take advantage of the smart features, which is a nice option to have. The combination of Wear OS and an Android 8.0 or above phone, however, allows for Google Maps navigation, interaction with Google Assistant, and more.

The Galaxy Watch5 has a sleek, minimal design. It’s available in two sizes—40mm and 44mm—and comes in four colors. At only 1.2 ounces for the larger watch (44mm), it’s lightweight, making it more comfortable to wear. It is packed with useful sensors, including Samsung’s BioActive sensor array, responsible for sleep tracking, heart rate, blood oxygen monitoring, ECG, and body composition analysis. It will provide lots of health and fitness insights. It even automatically detects exercise, which is helpful if you tend to forget to start tracking as I do.

The downside of this watch is the battery life. The 40mm watch utilizes a 284mAh battery, while the 44mm features a 410mAh battery. If you use the device for any exercise tracking at all, you’ll need to charge it daily. Nighttime is the most logical time to charge it for most, but that means you’ll miss out on sleep tracking, which is a selling point of the watch. (A titanium-cased Galaxy Watch5 Pro version increases the durability, wellness sensors, and battery life.)

Best dedicated fitness tracker: Fitbit Sense 2

Fitbit

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Specs

  • Weight: 0.8 ounces
  • Case size: 1.5 by 1.5 by 0.45 inches
  • Display resolution: 336 x 336 pixels
  • Battery life: Up to 6 days
  • Waterproof rating: Water resistant to 164 feet
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, NFC
  • Sensors: GPS/GLONASS, heart rate, altimeter, skin temperature, gyroscope, accelerometer, ambient light, SpO2, cEDA, mic/speaker
  • App support: Android and iOS

Pros

  • Very slim and lightweight
  • Lots of sensors
  • Good battery life
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • No music support
  • Subscription required to take full advantage of its features

The Fitbit Sense 2 is the company’s best and brightest smartwatch. It packs plenty of sensors, including onboard GPS to track your runs and bike rides. It also features a skin temperature sensor and Fitbit’s cEDA (continuous ElectroDermal Activity) sensor to help track stress. And it promises a six-day battery life (depending on usage), which is very strong.

At less than an ounce, this is one of the lightest smartwatches available, especially for one with such a robust set of sensors. It’s sleek and minimal, fitting nicely even on small wrists. And you can choose between three colorways. In addition, the Sense 2 gets an added physical button compared to the first version, making navigation easier.

Unfortunately, Fitbit removed third-party app support from the Sense 2. That means it isn’t as much of a smartwatch as other options. For example, there’s no Spotify app or music support, so you’ll have to rely on your phone. But there is a built-in speaker and microphone, so you can take calls on your wrist, as long as your phone is nearby. 

Best smartwatch for Android users: Ticwatch Pro 3

Ticwatch

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Specs

  • Weight: 1.5 ounces
  • Case size: 1.8 x 1.9 x 0.5 inches
  • Display resolution: 454 x 454 pixels
  • Battery life: Up to 72 hours (Smart Mode) or 45 days (Essential Mode)
  • Water rating: IP68
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi
  • Sensors: GPS/Beidou/Glonass/Galileo/QZSS, accelerometer, gyroscope, PPG heart rate, ambient light, barometer, mic/speaker
  • App support: Android and iOS

Pros

  • Good battery life
  • Dual display helps save battery life
  • Fast and responsive
  • IP68 waterproof rating

Cons

  • Somewhat pricey
  • A bit bulky

With a Snapdragon 4100 processor, the TicWatch Pro 3 is among the fastest Apple Watch alternatives on the market. It has all the usual high-end smartwatch features, including onboard GPS and NFC for payments. There’s a whole host of sensors and data tracking features, including a heart rate monitor, barometer, sleep tracking, and SpO2 monitoring.

It also has one very clever feature: a lower-power LCD screen right on top of its regular AMOLED display. That allows you to switch over for up to 45 days of battery life in “essential mode.” And there is an ambient light sensor in the watch, so it can automatically adjust the brightness of the AMOLED display.

The Ticwatch features a rugged design that will hold up to whatever activities you participate in. It’s a waterproof smartwatch with an IP68 rating, so you can even swim in it. That said, even though it is 28 percent lighter than the previous version of this watch, it is still fairly large and chunky. It may not be best for the small of wrist.

Best smartwatch for the triathlete in training: Garmin Forerunner 955

Abby Ferguson

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Specs

  • Weight: 1.8 ounces
  • Case size: 1.8 x 1.8 x 0.5 inches
  • Display resolution: 260 x 260 pixels
  • Battery life: Up to 15 days (smartwatch mode)
  • Water rating: 5 ATM water resistance
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi
  • Sensors: Heart rate, GPS/Glonass/Galileo, thermometer, pulse oximeter, accelerometer, gyroscope, compass, barometric altimeter
  • App support: Android and iOS

Pros

  • Long battery life
  • Highly customizable
  • Collects loads of data
  • Useful training assistance

Cons

  • Pricey

Garmin specializes in super-advanced fitness and outdoor tech gear, making its gear one of the best Apple Watch alternatives for serious athletes. The Forerunner 955 is specifically focused on running, though it can track about any kind of workout you can think of, including ones specific to triathlon training. It includes a dizzying array of sensors to ensure you improve. It calculates elevation changes, measures your pace against an average for your fitness level, calculates VO2 Max, and can even measure stuff like ground contact time and stride length. In addition, the watch provides plenty of training help, such as suggested workouts and training load insights, to help you maximize your fitness. 

Despite all the data it collects, the battery life is fantastic. And You can easily customize battery consumption to get what you need out of the watch in a given situation. In smartwatch mode, Garmin promises 15 days of battery life. And when using the All Systems GNSS plus Multi-Band mode (the most accurate location tracking), Garmin specifies up to 20 hours. Should you want a little extra juice, Garmin also makes a solar version of this watch. Of course, battery life depends on your usage, but I was easily able to get the promised numbers when using the Solar version of this watch, even without getting the minimum sun exposure. 

There is no microphone on the watch or optional cellphone connectivity, so you will need your phone to take advantage of the notifications and safety features (unless you opt for the older Forerunner 945 LTE). But you can send pre-formatted responses to calls and texts and interact with notifications from certain apps. And it is surprisingly sleek for all the sensors that are onboard, even on small wrists. Of course, if you’re more of a weekend warrior and don’t mind charging more often in exchange for the most vivid visual experience, the Garmin epix 2 has an AMOLED touchscreen display that brings it near parity with an Apple Watch presentation.

Best stylish smartwatch: Skagen Jorn 38MM Gen 6 Hybrid Smartwatch

Skagen

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Specs

  • Weight: Not provided
  • Case size: 1.5-inch diameter, 0.5 inches thick
  • Display resolution: 240 x 240 pixels
  • Battery life: Up to 14 days
  • Water rating: 3 ATM water resistance
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0 LE
  • Sensors: Accelerometer, microphone, PPG heart rate
  • App support: Android and iOS

Pros

  • Sleek, attractive styling
  • Unique hybrid design
  • Good app support
  • Built-in microphone

Cons

  • Fitness tracking isn’t great
  • Lacks a speaker

Skagen, the Danish-design-inspired imprint of Fossil, has a line of hybrid smartwatches called Jorn, which have uniformly been extremely good-looking watches. The hybrid design may not be for everyone, but it is a unique combination of classic watch looks with smartwatch features. The watch hands cleverly move out of the way so that you can easily read the E Ink display, and it still offers plenty of customization options. And it comes in 38mm or 42mm sizes with different color and band options. 

The Jorn features a built-in microphone as well as Amazon Alexa support. You can use voice control to set timers, reminders, and ask questions. Unfortunately, it lacks a speaker, so responses are displayed on the watch instead of spoken back to you, and you can’t take calls. But it does add a layer of functionality that some may appreciate. And it’s Android and iPhone compatible, so you can use it’s companion app with just about any phone.

The sensors in the Jorn watch are somewhat minimal but include an accelerometer and PPG heart rate monitor for basic exercise and health stats. These will track your steps, sleep, heart rate, and SpO2. Unfortunately, there’s no built-in GPS, so the watch relies on tethered GPS, which requires your phone. If you are looking for a serious fitness watch, this isn’t the best option, but we think it’s the most stylish Apple Watch alternative available. 

Best for health data: Polar Ignite 3

Abby Ferguson

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Specs

  • Weight: 1.2 ounces
  • Case size: 1.7 x 1.7 x 0.4 inches
  • Display resolution: 416 × 416 pixels
  • Battery life: Up to 30 hours (training mode)
  • Water rating: Water resistant to 98 feet
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.1
  • Sensors: GPS/Beidou/Glonass/Galileo/QZSS, accelerometer, heart rate 
  • App support: Android and iOS

Pros

  • Attractive styling 
  • Really slim on the wrist
  • Lots of smart health and training features
  • Vibrant display

Cons

  • GPS is inaccurate 

Polar has long been a staple in the fitness and health world, investing heavily in research and offering a range of watches and sensors. The third iteration of the Ignite is the sleekest yet, with attractive yet minimal design features. It’s available in four colorways, some of which (such as the Greige Sand) hardly look like fitness watches. It features an extremely slim profile, barely sticking up from my wrist.

The watch offers fairly minimal sensors, but it still collects plenty of data for excellent health and fitness insights. It provides the Polar Precision Prime sensor for highly accurate heart rate data. Unfortunately, despite the multi-band GPS, the location data is disappointing and inaccurate. This won’t matter for some, but if precise location tracking is essential to you, this watch won’t be your best choice. 

Where the Ignite 3 does shine is the health data it collects and the insights it provides. It provides accurate sleep-tracking information and uses that to help guide daily workout suggestions. It even provides secondary workout suggestions, such as stretching activities to keep you healthy. And Polar’s FitSpark suggests different types of exercise to keep your training well-rounded. It can provide a lot of information to help you stay on top of your training and health in general.

Best battery life: Garmin Instinct 2S Solar

Abby Ferguson

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Specs

  • Weight: 1.8 ounces (45mm), 1.5 ounces (40mm)
  • Case size: 1.8 x 1.8 x 0.6 inches (45mm), 1.6 x 1.6 x 0.5 inches (40mm)
  • Display resolution: 176 x 176 pixels (45mm) 156 x 156 pixels (40mm)
  • Battery life: Up to 28 days, unlimited with solar (smartwatch mode)
  • Water rating: Waterproof to 328 feet
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth and ANT+
  • Sensors: Heart rate, GPS/Glonass/Galileo, thermometer, pulse oximeter, accelerometer, compass, barometric altimeter
  • App support: Android and iOS

Pros

  • Outstanding battery life
  • Two sizes available
  • Lots of training tools
  • Highly accurate data collection

Cons

  • Rugged, old-school design isn’t for everyone

Garmin’s Instinct 2S Solar has a lot going for it, but its battery life is certainly the main highlight. In smartwatch mode, Garmin says it offers unlimited battery life if you get three hours of 50,000 lux sunlight conditions a day. Of course, when you use the various GPS modes and tracking exercises, that goes down. But I got about a week of life from my 40mm version while doing some activity once a day, even without getting the required sun exposure per day for the solar benefits.

The watch also gets a robust set of sensors and tracking features, in line with most of Garmin’s products. It can suggest workouts and keep track of your training status to ensure you are getting the most out of your activities and advancing your fitness. You can even use it to navigate should you need help getting back to your starting point. Overall it’s a fantastic training partner.

The Instinct 2 Solar is a vastly different Apple Watch alternative in its styling. It has a rather rugged, old-school watch styling, which some may not like. The display is also a simple monochrome transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) display, so don’t expect fancy color graphics or touchscreen functionality. But it connects to your phone and provides notifications on the watch. There is no microphone or speaker, so you can’t take calls on the watch, but you can use it to reject or accept a call that you then take on your phone. And like the Forerunner 955, you can send prewritten responses to texts or calls directly from the watch, which is handy if you are in the middle of something. 

Best budget smartwatch: Amazfit GTS 4

Amazfit

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Specs

  • Weight: 1 ounce
  • Case size: 1.7 x 1.4 x 0.4 inches (without heart rate base)
  • Display resolution: 390 x 450 pixels
  • Battery life: Up to 8 days (typical use)
  • Water rating: 5 ATM water resistance
  • Connectivity: WLAN 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.0, and BLE
  • Sensors: Geomagnetic, accelerometer, barometric altimeter, gyroscope, ambient light sensor, dual-band & 6 satellite positioning systems, BioTracker™ 4.0 PPG biometric sensor, mic/speaker
  • App support: Android 7.0 and above, iOS 12.0 and above

Pros

  • Sleek and comfortable design
  • Lots of sport modes
  • Good battery life

Cons

  • Data collection isn’t the most accurate

Amazfit is a well-established maker of budget smartwatches, and the GTS 4 is a great one. It provides an eight-day battery life (depending on usage), which is surprising for a watch of this price. That can even be extended to 16 days in battery saver mode. It also has lots of sensors to measure your heart rate, steps, blood oxygen levels, stress, sleep, location, and more. 

As a smartwatch, the GTS 4 pairs with your phone and delivers notifications right to your wrist. And it can sync with apps like Strava and Google Fit. It features a built-in mic and speaker, so you can receive and make calls from the watch if your phone is near. It has a strikingly Apple Watch-like design, which is sleek and minimal.

Of course, as a somewhat inexpensive watch, there are some downsides. The companion app (called Zepp) is a bit clunky, with some settings difficult to find. And the data collection tends to be a bit inaccurate, especially the sleep data and the automatic stand suggestions. And you’ll lose some features like third-party app compatibility. But it still has a lot to offer as long as you aren’t relying on the data for precise training.

What to consider when looking for the best Apple Watch alternatives

Non-Apple Watch smartwatches are available running all kinds of different software platforms. And many of them will work with both Android and iOS, in case you ever switch phones. Apple Watch alternatives come in a few different flavors. There’s the direct competition, which would be Google’s Wear platform and the Samsung Galaxy Watch. And there are also more fitness-centric offerings, both for casual workouts and intense outdoors lovers, plus a whole crop of budget-friendly smartwatches that provide health tracking and notifications.

What’s the difference between a smartwatch and a fitness tracker?

In general, the phrase “fitness tracker” is used to differentiate these models from a smartwatch in a few ways. Fitness trackers are typically smaller. They often look more like a bracelet with a small screen than a big, fancy watch. They are, as their name suggests, focused on fitness: a good fitness tracker should have not just a step tracker, but also a heart rate monitor and sleep tracking tech. Many high-end fitness watches can also integrate with more robust devices like chest strap heart rate monitors. 

That said, the line between fitness tracker and smartwatch has blurred. Modern fitness trackers have some features we’re more likely to associate with smartwatches They may have the ability to deliver notifications of texts and emails from your phone, might have a speaker so you can activate Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Some even sport similar faces and design elements.

But if you plan on wearing your wristpiece all the time, it’s fair to want something less like a fitness tracker and more like a full-featured smartwatch: you want it to have a bigger screen, because you’ll be looking at it more, and to have non-fitness-focused features too.

What watch features and sensors do I need?

A brief comparison of smartwatches will reveal a wide array of features and sensors. Of course, many companies have their proprietary names for traditional sensors, making matters more complicated. What sensors and features you need in a watch depends on how you intend to use it. 

If you mainly want a smartwatch for notification and call purposes, make sure you prioritize a watch with a microphone, speaker, and potentially cellular connectivity as well. Suppose you are more interested in highly accurate fitness information. In that case, you’ll want a multisport watch with a whole suite of features such as multi-band GPS, accelerometer, barometer, gyroscope, heart rate monitor, and more. 

Do I have to spend hundreds of dollars on a smartwatch?

The current generation of Apple Watch, the Series 8, starts at a whopping $399 (and goes up to $799 if you decide the Apple Watch Ultra is the right one for you). If you don’t necessarily need all the bells and whistles, just something that’ll track your health metrics and stick that data into a fitness app, plus maybe deliver some alerts, you don’t need to spend that much. In fact, you can spend barely a tenth of that price and get something surprisingly great.

The biggest use cases for smartwatches, according to Statista, are notifications and fitness tracking—and you can snag a budget smartwatch or fitness bracelet that can do that for you, acting as your everyday connected wearable at a fraction of the price of full-featured smartwatches.

What’s the most stylish smartwatch?

Smartwatches and fitness trackers aren’t known for being the most stylish accessories. They have some fundamental requirements that make being stylish difficult. For example, they have to be big enough to contain a touchscreen, a heart rate monitor, and a battery, which means that even the smallest tend to be on the bulky side.

For those who take wristwatches seriously, even the Apple Watch can be underwhelming from an aesthetic perspective. It’s a basic square made of glass and aluminum. Most Apple Watch alternatives are the same way: either a slim bracelet-style fitness tracker or a square or circular smartwatch. These tend to look just fine at the gym or when out for a run, but in more formal settings can look out of place.

Luckily, a few companies are getting on board with different designs. For example, the Amazfit T-Rex 2 leans into retro-style chunkiness, while hybrid smartwatches like the Skagen Jorn or Garmin vivomove 3 offer traditional analog watch hands with smartwatch features.

FAQs

Q: What are the disadvantages of the Apple Watch?

Apple’s smartwatch may be popular, but it definitely has disadvantages. Most importantly, it’s not compatible with Android phones. That means that 73% of the global smartphone market is out of luck. It’s also only available in the one square style, which may not be to everyone’s taste.

Q: What is the best and cheapest smartwatch?

While “the best” is absolutely subjective, if you’re looking for the best combination of features at the cheapest price, we like fitness trackers. They’ll include the most popular uses for smartwatches (fitness tracking and notifications) without all the other stuff so that you can save money. Amazfit has various options for a super low price, while Fitbit has some of the best software combinations and cheaper options.

Q: Is there a smartwatch as good as the Apple Watch?

We think the best non-Apple smartwatch will vary depending on what you’re looking for. If you’re just wanting to track your fitness and exercise, we like the Fitbit Sense 2; if you have a Samsung phone and want a full smartwatch experience, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is a great option; and if you want something to help on your running journey, look at Garmin’s offerings.

Final thoughts on the best Apple Watch alternatives

There’s truly no shortage of wearables these days, with most smartphone makers offering watch choices and fitness trackers increasingly becoming more like smartwatches. Thus, choosing the best Apple Watch alternative can be overwhelming. The good news is that whether you are looking for a hyper-focused fitness watch, a stylish smartwatch, or a simple blend between the two, there is an efficiency-boosting accessory for you among the choices we’ve compiled so you can complement your look and lifestyle.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best Apple Watch alternatives in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Google Glass is finally shattered https://www.popsci.com/technology/google-glass-dead/ Thu, 16 Mar 2023 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=520170
What happened to Google Glass?
RIP Google Glass (2013-2023). Lea Suzuki/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images

10 years after its debut, Google finally shutters the headset for good.

The post Google Glass is finally shattered appeared first on Popular Science.

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What happened to Google Glass?
RIP Google Glass (2013-2023). Lea Suzuki/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images

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Back in 2013, Google attempted to get way ahead of the augmented reality game with its Google Glass headset. Although first billed as a tech game changer, the $1,500 price tag and privacy concerns made it a wholesale commercial flop. But despite some belated success among medical professionals and first responders via Google’s 2017 Glass Enterprise revamp, the much-memed product never really broke through to the masses. Yesterday, Google officially announced the demise of its Glass product line.

According to a company statement, headsets are no longer available for purchase, while support for Glass Enterprise Edition will continue through mid-September of this year. “Thank you for over a decade of innovation and partnership,” writes Google, in the brief end to one of the more infamous modern tech rollouts.

[Related: Doctors are wearing the new Google Glass while seeing patients.]

Initially resembling frameless eyewear, Google’s headset included a small, rectangular, transparent glass (hence the name) above the wearer’s right eye. A miniature onboard computer system beamed bits of information through the prism. Users could then utilize features like map directions, photo and video capabilities, and weather forecasts in front of them while maintaining a clear vision of their surrounding, real-world environment. Future iterations resembled protective eyewear designs, and were often utilized in industries such as factory manufacturing.

The announcement likely comes as no surprise to most—alongside a “Wait, Google still made those?” from many others—as the Big Tech giant’s last edition of Glass Enterprise came out almost four years’ ago in 2019 alongside a $999 price tag. Since then, Google’s chief rivals at Meta and Apple have poured massive amounts of cash into their own respective AR projects. In 2021, Meta collaborated with Ray-Ban to release camera-embedded sunglasses, albeit with no augmented display features, and (until recently) was going all in on pushing a “metaverse” experience via its Meta Quest headset line. Meanwhile, Apple is widely reported to be on the cusp of rolling out its own wearable AR/VR product line.

[Related: Best VR headsets in 2023.]

As CNBC also notes, the demise of Glass in no way means Google is out of the AR game—far from it, in fact. Last summer, the company unveiled a new prototype iteration of augmented reality eyewear, although specifics like a release window, price point, or even a name have yet to be announced. Whatever its name may be, perhaps it won’t be as easy to turn into a snarky pun as Google Glass.

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Get an Apple Watch 8 on Amazon today for the lowest price we’ve seen https://www.popsci.com/gear/apple-watch-cheap-amazon-deal/ Wed, 15 Mar 2023 15:59:07 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=519720
iPhone 14 News
Apple announced three new watches in 2022, including the Apple Watch Series 8, and a revised Apple Watch SE. Apple

Time is running out on this massive Apple Watch Series 8 deal—take advantage of it before they spring forward to their regular prices.

The post Get an Apple Watch 8 on Amazon today for the lowest price we’ve seen appeared first on Popular Science.

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iPhone 14 News
Apple announced three new watches in 2022, including the Apple Watch Series 8, and a revised Apple Watch SE. Apple

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Since its release in 2022, the Apple Watch Series 8 has been the model to get when it comes to wearables. You, too, can get crash detection, better heart monitoring, and even ovulation tracking thanks to this massive Apple Watch 8 deal on Amazon, which knocks down the price to $329 —that’s the lowest we’ve seen it go for, ever.

Apple Watch Series 8 $329 (Was $399)

Apple

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Don’t let the outside—which doesn’t feature any noticeable design changes compared to the Series 7—fool you. Inside, the Apple Watch 8 features improved sensors for more accurate health readings and safety detection. An Always On Retina display shows medication reminders and text messages in stunning clarity, and a crack-resistant, IP6X dust-resistant, and swimproof face and body mean you don’t have to worry about breaking it during everyday wear or while you’re taking laps at the pool. It works across the Apple ecosystem, meaning you can unlock your Mac, locate other devices, and pay for a coffee with a swipe, tap, or touch. An 18-hour battery life means you can take advantage of all of these features without worrying about a dying device.

If you can go without dust resistance, an Always On Display, and blood oxygen and ECG readings, consider the Apple Watch SE (2nd generation), which is also at its lowest price today. You can get sleep tracking, crash detection, water resistance, and some of the same features as the Apple Watch 8 for $219. If you’ve been considering testing the Apple Watch waters for a low price, we can’t recommend the Apple Watch SE enough.

Time is running out on this deal—take advantage of it before they spring forward and fall back to their regular prices.

The post Get an Apple Watch 8 on Amazon today for the lowest price we’ve seen appeared first on Popular Science.

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Garmin’s latest running watches pair vivid visuals with your vitals https://www.popsci.com/gear/garmin-forerunner-265-965-news/ Thu, 02 Mar 2023 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=516638
Garmin new Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 965 models
Garmin's two newest Forerunners are comprehensively colorful thanks to the AMOLED displays and the fun case and band combinations. Garmin

The AMOLED displays will offer brighter and richer colors and better visibility in different lighting conditions.

The post Garmin’s latest running watches pair vivid visuals with your vitals appeared first on Popular Science.

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Garmin new Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 965 models
Garmin's two newest Forerunners are comprehensively colorful thanks to the AMOLED displays and the fun case and band combinations. Garmin

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Garmin already has an extensive lineup of advanced running watches in its Forerunner series, but it just got even larger. The wearable tech company has announced two new smartwatches: the Forerunner 265 and 965. The highlight of the release is their vibrant AMOLED displays, a first for Garmin GPS running smartwatches. Each will offer an optional always-on, full-color touchscreen (though you can lock the display during activity and rely on Garmin’s classic five-button navigation system). We loved the Garmin Forerunner 955, and its fundamentals form the basis of the new models, so we have high expectations for these new additions to the Forerunner family.

Training features of the Garmin Forerunner 265 and 965

Garmin’s watches traditionally offer an impressive suite of sensors and performance tracking/analyzing features. As a result, they make great Apple Watch alternatives, especially for athletes. And this all holds even more true with the two new offerings. Like existing Forerunners (and other Garmin watches), they will calculate VO2 max, performance condition, training effect, and more. And all of that data is used to calculate a training readiness score to help you plan your rest better.

Sleep is a key component of performance, which Garmin clearly understands. Its watches can track your sleep, in part by evaluating heart rate variability, providing a more complete wellness and training picture. And, provided you sleep wearing the watch, a Morning Report summarizes your sleep, your day’s training outlook, and the environmental conditions you can expect. 

These watches will also offer daily suggested workouts, which adapt after every run to help you improve your running performance and prevent overtraining. The race widget, along with Garmin Coach and PacePro, will provide training tips and predictions for race performance based on specific course details, weather, and performance. They can even measure running power and running dynamics without any additional accessories. Now, however, shall of these metrics will be more visible and vivid indoors and out, thanks to the upgrade from memory-in-pixel displays.

Forerunner 965 AMOLED display lit up on a wrist at dusk
The fancy new Forerunner AMOLED display is a beacon of metrics and motivation. Garmin

Garmin Forerunner 265 details

The Forerunner 265, priced at $449.99, sits right between the Forerunner 255 Music and 955. It gets the full set of sensors found in Garmin’s advanced fitness smartwatches, including the wrist-based Pulse Ox sensor. The 265 also offers Garmin’s safety features, such as incident detection and LiveTrack.

As a smartwatch, it easily connects to your phone for smart notifications and allows you to download music from Spotify, Deezer, or Amazon Music to the watch for phone-free Bluetooth listening. And you can use Garmin Pay for contactless payments. 

The Forerunner 265 will be available in two sizes, each offering different battery life. The 42mm Forerunner 265S promises 24 hours of battery life in GPS mode and up to 15 days in smartwatch mode. The larger Forerunner 265, with a 46mm case, should provide up to 20 hours of battery life in GPS mode and up to 13 days in smartwatch mode. 

Garmin Forerunner 965 details

Garmin designed the Forerunner 965 for seriously dedicated athletes. It’s at the top of the Forerunner lineup, priced at $599.99. As a result, it will feature all the same things mentioned above and more. Garmin says it adds “additional performance metrics, built-in mapping, and the ability to store more songs right on the watch” compared to the 265. 

The 965 also offers a new feature, called load ratio, to “track short-term to mid-term load ratio” to stay healthy while training. Stamina insights will also help track exertion levels for a well-rounded picture of your training. And ClimbPro shows real-time information on climbs during a run, including gradient, distance, and elevation gain. There are also full-color built-in maps for route planning and navigation.

The 965 will feature a 47mm case with a lightweight titanium bezel. The AMOLED display is Garmin’s largest yet at 1.4 inches (the epix Gen. 2), Garmin’s first AMOLED-equipped watch, has a 1.3-inch screen). Garmin says it will provide up to 31 hours of battery life in GPS mode and up to 23 days in smartwatch mode.

Pricing & availability

The Garmin Forerunner 265 will cost you $449.99 for either the 42mm or 46mm versions. It is available for purchase now. The Garmin Forerunner 965 will run you $599.99 and won’t ship until late March/early April, but can be pre-ordered now.

The post Garmin’s latest running watches pair vivid visuals with your vitals appeared first on Popular Science.

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This modified AR headset could help you find your lost keys https://www.popsci.com/technology/x-ray-augmented-reality-mit/ Mon, 27 Feb 2023 20:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=515681
Woman wearing Microsoft Hololens with RFID-tracking antenna addition
The new add-on to AR headsets uses RFID-locating antenna. MIT

Missing wallets and hidden items may one day be a thing of the past.

The post This modified AR headset could help you find your lost keys appeared first on Popular Science.

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Woman wearing Microsoft Hololens with RFID-tracking antenna addition
The new add-on to AR headsets uses RFID-locating antenna. MIT

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MIT researchers finally cracked the computer code for X-ray vision—at least for finding hidden objects like missing t-shirts or lost keys. Instead of providing users with stereotypical X-ray specs, however, the team’s newly dubbed “X-AR” setup offers something more akin to a geolocation program, a la Apple AirTags for wearable augmented reality headsets. Once fine-tuned, the team’s new system could become a useful tool within retail companies’ massive warehouses and distribution hubs, alongside casual consumers’ everyday home activities.

To pull off the impressive digital sleuthing, developers first designed a flexible, transparent RFID tag-communicating antenna sheet that adheres atop a Microsoft Hololens headset. RFID locators, which adhere to products like stickers and reflect signals back to antennas, generally rely on multiple antennas spaced apart from one another. In this case, the team needed to optimize a single antenna to handle a high enough bandwidth for the tags. Not only that, but the antenna couldn’t obscure any portion of the Hololens’ other visual tools and sensors.

[Related: X-ray adds new layer to space telescope images.]

Once fine-tuned, the team utilized synthetic aperture radar (SAR) to locate desired RFID-tagged items, like a boxed phone or article of clothing. To do this, the X-AR measures an area utilizing the antenna at various vantages while a user transverses the room. The headset then combines the data points like a standard antenna array to localize on its target.

After extensive testing X-AR’s creators were able to guide users with nearly 99 percent accuracy to items scattered throughout a warehouse testing environment. When those products were hidden within boxes, the X-AR still even boasted an almost 92 percent accuracy rate.

[Related: The best RFID wallets of 2023.]

“While it presented a challenge when we were designing the system, we found in our experiments that it actually works well with natural human motion,” project collaborator Laura Dodds said in a press release.  According to Dodds, a research assistant at MIT’s Signal Kinetics lab, humans’ frequent movements allows X-AR to take measurements from many different locales, and thus more accurately localize items. While wearing the AR headset, the X-AR system’s simple visual menu cues and icons help users move towards a desired location and let them know when the correct RFID has been scanned.

In future iterations, the team hopes to expand its sensing capabilities to incorporate WiFi, mmWaves, or terahertz waves. Right now, researchers say X-AR also only works within three meters of an object, so expanding its radius will be key for any future public deployment, alongside coordination abilities between multiple headsets.

The post This modified AR headset could help you find your lost keys appeared first on Popular Science.

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Pick two OtterBox products and get 22% off with this angelic deal https://www.popsci.com/gear/otterbox-case-charger-bundle-sale/ Thu, 23 Feb 2023 17:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=514747
An OtterBox case and MagSafe charger on a periwinkle background
Amanda Reed

If you're looking for a sign to upgrade your phone case, consider this deal from OtterBox as one.

The post Pick two OtterBox products and get 22% off with this angelic deal appeared first on Popular Science.

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An OtterBox case and MagSafe charger on a periwinkle background
Amanda Reed

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In numerology, angel numbers are a repeating sequence of numbers you can’t seem to get away from—if you glance at your phone or the clock and keep seeing the same time, the universe might be trying to tell you something. “Two” represents duality and reflection. If you’ve thought, “I need a new phone case and screen protector for my phone,” consider this “pick two products, get 22% off” deal from Otterbox your sign to click “add to cart” before it ends tomorrow.

3-in-1 Charging Station with MagSafe $116.96 (Was $149.95) + iPhone 14 Pro Case for MagSafe Symmetry Series+ Antimicrobial $38.96 (Was $38.96)

OtterBox

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We think a wireless charger and a MagSafe-compliant case are the perfect combo to take advantage of this deal. And this Symmetry Series+ Antimicrobial case for the iPhone 14 and 3-in-1 charging station with MagSafe are the best of those respective things. The case is protective and durable while maintaining the iPhone’s sleek design. And, it’s made for MagSafe (like my personal, but currently not on sale, case, the Otterbox OtterGrip Symmetry Series). This means you won’t have to gamble with compliance upon purchase. The case’s antimicrobial properties also reduce germs to protect the phone’s integrity. Simply place it onto the 3-in-1 charging station to make the MagSafe magic happen. It can also charge your Apple Watch and AirPods Pro 2 simultaneously—talk about multihyphenate.

This sale ends this Friday, Feb. 24, so check out OtterBox’s other top sellers that qualify for the deal. Heads-up, this bundle deal is only available on the OtterBox site. However …

Here are other OtterBox products on sale on Amazon:

The post Pick two OtterBox products and get 22% off with this angelic deal appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best MagSafe accessories of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-magsafe-accessories/ Thu, 30 Jun 2022 19:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=453602
Best MagSafe accessories sliced header
Stan Horaczek

There is a massive ecosystem of iPhone accessories, and MagSafe is the one ring that wants to rule them all.

The post The best MagSafe accessories of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best MagSafe accessories sliced header
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall Belkin BOOST↑CHARGE PRO 3-in-1 charging pad is the best overall MagSafe accessory. Belkin BOOST↑CHARGE PRO 3-in-1 Charging Pad
SEE IT

An Apple enthusiast’s simplest solution for charging all the essentials.

Best charger Mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger is the best charger for MagSafe accessory. Mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger
SEE IT

Classy as it is convenient, this compact charger helps simplify packing.

Best battery OtterBox wireless 5K mAh power bank is the best battery. OtterBox wireless 5K mAh Power Bank
SEE IT

Two-sided MagSafe compatibility adds versatility to this potent pint-sized battery backup.

If you’ve ever woken up and, groggily lumbering toward the bathroom, started the day by tripping over an iPhone charging cable, you know you felt no shame audibly cheering the first time you used a MagSafe accessory. MagSafe, Apple’s magnetic connector for electronic devices, started as an improvement for MacBook power cords in 2006. But it was with the introduction of the iPhone 12 in 2020 that the MagSafe name became synonymous with the much wider world of wireless power transfer and magnetic attachment products. Having a phone and a MagSafe-compatible charger saves you the problem of having the right cord with the right connector that’s the right length to be lined up just right; when that green circle lights up the iPhone screen, one less worry fills your mind. Not every MagSafe accessory involves power but they do all involve that feeling of security. Here’s our selection of the best MagSafe accessories to make sure your iPhone is fully charged and fastened when and where you need it to be.

How we chose the best MagSafe accessories

As gadget geeks and serial upgraders, many of us have a recent iPhone. And considering how many devices we regularly test, requiring us to keep track of yet another interconnect, being able to wrangle one less tangle is a godsend. This is why we are both fans and intimate friends with many MagSafe accessories. Combining this firsthand experience with peer recommendations, critical reviews, and user impressions, we put together a list of potential inclusions from top manufacturers—including Belkin, Mophie, OtterBox, and more—then narrowed down the dozens of options to these picks.

The best MagSafe accessories: Reviews & Recommendations

MagSafe is a quality-of-life improvement you didn’t know you needed, but once you have it, you don’t understand why you didn’t this whole time. Here are our top picks for some of the best MagSafe accessories, focusing on accessories that offer charging.

Best overall: Belkin BOOST↑CHARGE PRO 3-in-1 charging pad

Belkin

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Why it made the cut: This unassuming silicone-clad slab packs a sweet suite of Apple device chargers into a low-profile accessory.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 9.8 x 5 x 3.66 inches
  • Weight: 1.74 pounds
  • Power: Up to 15W MagSafe

Pros

  • Charges iPhone, Apple Watch, and wireless earbuds simultaneously
  • Full 15W MagSafe charging capability
  • Apple Watch Series 7 fast charge supported
  • Apple Watch can be charged flat or in Nightstand mode

Cons

  • Not the cheapest charging pad

Fans of maximized minimalism will love this Belkin 3-in-1 charging stand. It’s an Apple enthusiast’s simplest solution for charging all the essentials, with dedicated spots for a MagSafe-compatible iPhone, an Apple Watch, and wireless-compatible AirPods

Despite being a three-device dream, it’s an unassuming silicone-clad slab—available in Black or White with a soft-matte finish and subtle chrome accents—and it’s a lay-flat design that can be easily packed for on-the-go use. The MagSafe iPhone platform offers full 15W charging, with or without an official MagSafe case on your device (an included 40W adapter ensures the full output). While the Watch puck is adjustable, allowing any size Watch to be oriented as an alarm clock in Nightstand mode—and enabling fast charge for compatible Apple Watch Series 8 models. And the AirPods panel includes an LED indicator, so you know the wireless charging is active. 

Stable without being too hefty, the Belkin BOOST↑CHARGE PRO is the top third-party MagSafe charger and fills an important gap in Apple’s own offerings.

Best charging dock: Nomad Base One Max charger

Nomad

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Why it made the cut: Nomad’s Base One Max is a sturdy 2-in-1 Made for iPhone-certified charger made of metal, glass, and soft-touch rubber.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 7.44 x 3.54 x 1.8 inches
  • Weight: 2 pounds
  • Power: Up to 15W MagSafe, Requires 30W charging brick

Pros

  • Beautiful design
  • Weight keeps it anchored
  • Apple Watch charges in Nightstand Mode

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Doesn’t support Apple Watch 7 fast charge
  • Doesn’t come with a charging brick

Nomad’s Base One Max is a hefty 2-in-1 charger that emphasizes design and utility. Available in Carbide or Silver, it features a solid metal and glass design along with subtle soft-touch accents to keep your devices protected, and it looks and feels more like a centerpiece rather than just another accessory.

The integrated Apple Watch charger props up the wearable in Nightstand Mode, while the 15W MFi MagSafe pad provides a satisfying thunk every time you place your iPhone down to charge. The charging pad is also compatible with other Qi-enabled devices so that you can charge your AirPods in between Zoom meetings.

Although the Base One Max is heavy at 2 pounds, its weight allows it to stay anchored when you reach for your device, and the rubber base ensures it won’t move around. The Base One Max comes with a 6-foot braided USB-C cable, but you’ll have to supply your own charging brick. It also doesn’t support fast charge on the Apple Watch.

While the Base One Max is pricey and not as transportable as our best overall pick, its thoughtful, high-quality design makes it one of the most elegant MagSafe options for a designated iPhone charging station.

Best charger: Mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger

ZAGG

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Why it made the cut: Simplify your packing without sacrificing anything with this elegant wireless charging solution.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 0.4 x 12.3 x 3.2 inches
  • Weight: 9.92 ounces
  • Power: 7.5W, 15W MagSafe

Pros

  • Compact yet complete charging suite
  • Sophisticated aesthetics
  • Apple Watch can be oriented in Nightstand mode

Cons

  • As pricy as a permanent pad, but not as solid

Classy as it is convenient, the Mophie 3-in-1 travel charger with MagSafe is an easily packable trifold charger that comes with all the accessories needed, all tucked within an elegant felt organizer. Inside this backpack, briefcase, or maybe even belt bag-friendly case, you’ll find three pockets for the charger, a 30W USB-C PD wall adapter, and an included 1m USB-C to USB-C cable.

Unfurl the heathered grey fabric-wrapped hub and three pads will be revealed, ​​with a dedicated cradle for AirPods, a magnetized disc for iPhone, and a magnetized puck for Apple Watch. This charger powers all three simultaneously from a single cable plugged into the Watch platform. Perfect for pleasurable jaunts and business trips alike, this stylish set-up starts your devices charging on contact, so you’ll be ready to touch base with all your contacts in the morning.    

Best car mount: Belkin BOOST↑CHARGE Magnetic Wireless Car Charger

Belkin

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Why it made the cut: This vent-mounted charger helps you steer without your iPhone sliding around and driving you crazy. 

Specs

  • Dimensions: 1.68 x 3.98 x 5.43 inches
  • Weight: 3.35 ounces
  • Power: Up to 10W

Pros

  • Easily mounted/removed on a vehicle air vent
  • Keeps phone secure, accessible, and charged during navigation

Cons

  • Requires you to run a cable from the console to charge
  • Placement might require some adjusting, based on vent blades

It may not quite be the jetpacks that the future promised, but having a MagSafe mount in the car definitely changed how I travel for the better. Securing my iPhone conveniently as fast, if not faster, than I fasten my own seatbelt, not having to fish out a charging cable, then detaching the phone just as expediently when I get to my destination is perhaps the greatest expression of MagSafe’s life-changing properties. 

Easily clamped to an air vent, the Belkin BOOST↑CHARGE magnetic wireless charging mount holds an iPhone firmly within sight even when traffic patterns shift abruptly. If you must keep an eye on a screen for navigation purposes (I’ll give you the benefit of the doubt you won’t play videos or other distractions while driving), it’s far better to situate your phone in an optimal place to the side of the steering column rather than have you fumbling for it with only one hand on the wheel. 

In addition to firmly holding the phone in place (in either vertical or horizontal orientation), the Belkin BOOST↑CHARGE can be plugged into (what was once) the cigarette lighter with the included 20W USB-C Power Delivery 3.0 car power supply and charge your iPhone while driving. This helps compensate for energy-intensive programs like Waze and Google Maps keeping your display and GPS continually active. The road may be full of bumps, but at least your phone won’t flip or its battery dip with this convenient accessory.  

Best phone case: Otterbox OtterGrip Symmetry Series

Amanda Reed

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Why it made the cut: Enter the world of MagSafe without having to get rid of a phone grip.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 6.02 x 3.11 x .53 inches
  • Weight: 1.76 ounces
  • Power: N/A

Pros

  • Combines MagSafe compliance with easy grip
  • Durable
  • Doesn’t interfere with phone buttons

Cons

  • OtterGrip not a complete replacement for the PopSocket
  • More of a phone grip than a phone stand

Thanks to increasingly more content and the pixels needed to display it, smartphones have gotten bigger and bigger over the last decade. For people with the small, dainty hands of a 19th-century child working in a watch factory, phone grips like PopSockets provided a handle to prevent some accidental drops and smartphone pinky. However, these add-ons meant that anyone using one could never fully experience the convenience of MagSafe—an iPhone‘s back cover has to be easily accessible so that compatible accessories can sit flush and align their magnetic array. Sure, you can buy a PopSocket that attaches using MagSafe, but then you’re taking it on and off and potentially losing it. That changes with the Otterbox OtterGrip Symmetry Series case, originally announced in January 2023 at CES and now available. The OtterGrip gives you the best of both worlds, allowing you to have an integrated phone grip and use any of the MagSafe chargers, mounts, batteries, etc., you see on this page. Simply pull the grip away from the case to use it, and snap it back in place when you decide to place it on a wireless charger or car mount. The grip also rotates 360 degrees for ergonomics.

The OtterGrip is also incredibly durable without the chonk. Some may think “big, bulky case” when they hear the name OtterBox, but that’s no longer the, well, case. There’s a better “click” on the volume and lock buttons compared to my old Speck Gemshell case, which has a slim profile, all things considered. The OtterGrip is actually slimmer than the Speck Gemshell using a separate phone grip, with higher drop protection.

If you use a PopSocket-like grip for a phone stand, however, you might want to pass on the OtterGrip case—it’s hard to balance the phone and get it to stay in place without the grip snapping back into place. The OtterGrip isn’t a one-to-one replacement for the PopSocket in terms of feeling, and there is some getting used to the experience. But being able to use MagSafe and feel more secure when you’re holding your expensive pocket computer is worth the learning curve.

Best battery: OtterBox wireless 5K mAh power bank

OtterBox

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Why it made the cut: Two-sided MagSafe compatibility adds versatility to this potent pint-sized battery backup.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 6.69 x 4.25 x 0.39 inches
  • Weight: 6.5 ounces
  • Power: 5W Qi, 7.5W MagSafe

Pros

  • Magnets on both sides allow connections to a phone and mount simultaneously
  • Wireless input and wireless output
  • LED indicators for charge status/battery life

Cons

  • No magnetic stabilizing strip leaves the opportunity for the power bank to rotate 
  • Not the biggest capacity available in a wireless power bank

The Otterbox wireless 5K mAh power bank tops the battery category not only because of what it can hold and also how you can hold it. It doesn’t have the capacity of, say, Belkin’s equally recommendable BOOST↑CHARGE Wireless Charger 10K, but only holding half the charge means it also takes up less space—a huge plus for pocketability (though the battery has the potential to rotate/become unaligned if you’re power-walking with purpose). And 5K is enough to fully recharge any iPhone 13 once (or the iPhone 13 mini twice).

What really stands out with this power bank is that it has MagSafe on both sides, meaning you can attach it to a MagSafe charger with your iPhone simultaneously attached, topping off both in the process. I actually store one on a Satechi 3-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Stand so it’s primed and ready to easily peel off in case I’m leaving the house without my iPhone at 100%. And if I was without that convenient perch and succumbed to a cable, I could use the bidirectional USB-C port to charge the power bank, as well as to charge my phone.  

Things to consider before buying the best MagSafe accessories

If you have an iPhone 12, iPhone 13, or iPhone 14 of any size/sort, you can access MagSafe. And if you have a debit or credit card, you can access the MagSafe accessories presented here. But before you invest in new accouterments, you might have some questions. And that’s why we’re here.

So, how exactly does MagSafe work?

MagSafe uses a series of internal magnets ringing an iPhone’s charging coil to snap securely to compatible accessories. This assures that any attachments are properly lined up, which is particularly valuable for optimized wireless charging. As for how magnets work in general, that is a tale of electrons spinning and atoms aligning and a miraculous mystery for another time. But when magnetized objects of opposite poles enter each other’s magnetic fields, they are as strongly attracted to each other as a long-time Apple fan is to hearing “… and one more thing.”

Do I need MagSafe accessories?

No. If you are a connoisseur of cables—each one personally, painstakingly labeled as to what it is for—then keep enjoying those curled-up keepsakes and a Jenga-like set of power bricks. USB-A to Lightning, USB-C to Lightning … you do you. Being hardwired to the wall will continue to work … for now (we have no insight into Apple’s plans to discontinue ports on iPhones). And if you always have or prefer to secure your phone in a dashboard-mounted vice while driving, don’t switch up what works for you. So, no, you don’t need MagSafe accessories. But if you’ve gotten tired of trying to find a convenient place to plug in a somehow always slightly too short cable, or finding out that the cable you desperately need to save you from an imminent power-down has a short in it, you definitely may want MagSafe accessories. And don’t even get me started as to how convenient a MagSafe car mount is … (OK, get me started but wait till we get to our top pick in that category, please.)

Do I need a MagSafe case for my iPhone?

To charge wirelessly, no, you don’t need a MagSafe case. But to attach additional accessories to your iPhone while it’s in the case, yes, you need a MagSafe case. Plus the MagSafe system in the case helps alleviate any concerns that it might fall off.

If I buy a MagSafe accessory, does it need to be “Made for MagSafe” to work?

No, though it can’t hurt. There are plenty of “MagSafe compatible” options with the magnetic ring that lets your iPhone snap to them with the precision needed to stay and/or charge properly. We even recommend some. But the “Made for MagSafe” badge does bring some benefits. It means that the device can support 15W charging (12W for iPhone mini models), rather than the 7.5W charging of “MagSafe compatible” alternatives (and more watts=faster charging). To get maximum output, however, be sure you have at least a 20W USB-C PD adapter for the charging pad. In addition, the near-field communication between “Made for MagSafe” charging devices means you get the undeniable satisfaction of seeing your iPhone’s screen light up with the curling green MagSafe animation that guarantees authenticity and efficiency. 

Can I charge anything other than my iPhone with a MagSafe pad?

Sure, you can place anything with Qi-enabled wireless charging on a MagSafe pad and the battery will fill. However, the device won’t snap into place so you won’t know if it’s set down correctly and there’s nothing to stop it from getting knocked off the pad accidentally. There are Android devices, and optional cases, that do have magnetic rings in them, which solves that problem, but Android devices don’t replicate the alert an official MagSafe charger gives when it comes into contact with an iPhone.

FAQs

Q: How much do MagSafe accessories cost?

MagSafe accessories can range from a $20 case to $150 charging pads, and they occupy all price points in between.

Q: Which iPhones have MagSafe?

Currently, the iPhones 12/12 Pro/12 Pro Max/12 mini, the iPhone 13/13 Pro/13 Pro Max/13 mini, and the iPhone 14/14 Plus/14 Pro/14 Pro Max all feature MagSafe accessory compatibility. The iPhone SE, meanwhile, supports wireless charging but doesn’t have the MagSafe system, specifically.

Q: Does MagSafe weaken?

All magnets weaken, but not at a pace that will be measurable within the lifetime of your device.

Q: Is MagSafe magnetic?

The MagSafe array is very thin but is definitely strongly magnetic, though made in a way that means other magnets won’t stick to your phone. However, MagSafe accessories should be used with some caution by people with medical devices like pacemakers, as sensors in such devices might react to both magnets and the radio transmitter inherent in all smartphones. Avoid placing anything MagSafe directly on the skin and charge at a distance of at least six inches away, just to be sure. 

Final thoughts on the best MagSafe accessories

If you’re wired to go wireless and you’re an iPhone owner, MagSafe accessories are the best way to get your fill of features and battery capacity. Matching convenience with efficiency, the best MagSafe accessories are as attached to your pocket computer as you are and can help empower your adventures together.

The post The best MagSafe accessories of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Take time to get more steps in with discounted Fitbits on Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/fitbit-fitness-watch-amazon-deal/ Wed, 15 Feb 2023 18:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=512575
Two smartwatches on a periwinkle background
Amanda Reed

Log more miles and save more cash with 20% off Fitbits plus other wearables that come in handy when you're talking a beautiful spring stroll.

The post Take time to get more steps in with discounted Fitbits on Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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Two smartwatches on a periwinkle background
Amanda Reed

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Spring is drawing nearer with each passing day, and the promise of warmer weather gives you the chance to break out those new running shoes and take a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood. No offense to your treadmill, but there’s something especially lovely about feeling the sun on your face and the breeze in your hair. Track how many steps you take—along with distance walked—with Fitbits on sale for up to 20% off on Amazon.

Fitbit Luxe $98.95 (Was $129.95)

Fitbit

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The Fitbit Luxe (which is just one of our favorite Fitbits) has a slimmer face compared to other touchscreen fitness watches. This watch, however, has a stainless steel case for added durability. 24/7 heart rate tracking gives you more accurate numbers, and a gentle, affirming buzz lets you know when you’ve reached your target heart rate while exercising. Five days’ worth of battery on a single charge means you can spend more time using the watch’s stress management tools and less time hooking it up to a charger. And, get real-time pace and distance tracking when you connect it to your phone’s GPS. It’s perfect for someone who is looking for a smartwatch that blends fashion with function.

If you’re looking for something that looks and feels like an analog watch with health features, the Garmin vivomove Sport is on sale for $149.99, down from its original $179.99 pricing. It has a traditional watch face and real hands with a touchscreen display that shows your daily step count, smartphone notifications, and more.

And if a smartwatch isn’t your jam at all, we love plenty of timeless timepieces under $500 including this Timex Unisex Weekender Chronograph watch, which comes with a leather and nylon strap to match practically any outfit in your closet.

These deals will fly away like a bird after it drops below 30 degrees, so take advantage of them before it’s too late.

Here are some other fitness watches we want to get our hands on:

The post Take time to get more steps in with discounted Fitbits on Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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The Apple Watch Ultra is $50 off right now at Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/apple-watch-ultra-deal/ Mon, 13 Feb 2023 16:40:23 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=511673
Apple Watch Ultra with a red nighttime face against a black background
The Apple Watch Ultra is $50 off right now. Stan Horaczek

This surprise deal knocks the smartwatch down to its lowest price since Black Friday.

The post The Apple Watch Ultra is $50 off right now at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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Apple Watch Ultra with a red nighttime face against a black background
The Apple Watch Ultra is $50 off right now. Stan Horaczek

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Smartwatch enthusiasts should take note of this surprise deal on the Apple Watch Ultra, which brings its price down to $750 at multiple retailers. The $50 discount is just $10 shy of the Watch Ultra’s lowest price ever and the best price we’ve seen for this accomplished multisport wearable in months. Best Buy, which is honoring this deal, is also offering an open box model in excellent condition for $704, which is nearly $100 off the Ultra’s list price.

Apple

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The Apple Watch Ultra is Apple’s most premium smartwatch yet. The durable titanium watch body features a bigger screen (49mm), a brighter display (up to 2,000 nits), longer battery life (up to 36 hours during typical use and 60 hours in low power mode), and a physical function button that can be customized to a specific action. For instance, you can set the button press to start a workout or a timer, so you don’t have to swipe on its screen.

In addition to IP6X dust protection, the smartwatch is swim-proof to 40 meters and water-resistant down to 100 meters. A depth gauge and water temperature sensor can give you vital stats about your dive at a glance while you’re underwater. These advanced features are exclusive to the Apple Watch Ultra, but this model also supports Apple’s improvements to its entire smartwatch line.

The Watch Ultra’s High-g accelerometer and gyroscope enable crash detection, which sends a distress signal to the police and specified contact if it believes you’re in a car crash. The Emergency SOS feature allows the smartwatch to connect to satellites in rural regions in case something goes wrong and you can’t get voice service but need to send an alert. You can also use the watch to drop points on your hike and follow them back to civilization using a map on the Apple Watch if you get lost.

There’s also the standard assortment of health features, like heart rate tracking, sleep tracking, taking an EKG, and alerts if an Apple Watch detects an irregular heartbeat. Apple brought menstrual cycle tracking and temperature tracking to the Apple Watch this year, and that data will be encrypted and stored in Apple’s health app.

Apple doesn’t discount its hardware, and this is the best Apple Watch Ultra deal we’ve seen in months—especially if you pick up a refurbished model. If you’re been curious about the Watch Ultra or want to upgrade from an older model to the most luxe edition yet, this is a great time. If you’re not sure about which Apple Watch suits you best, check out our Apple Watch comparison.

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A watch is a timeless gift—snag one from Garmin for up to $400 off https://www.popsci.com/gear/garmin-valentines-day-sale/ Fri, 10 Feb 2023 16:45:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=511079
A lineup of garmin watches on a pink heart background
Amanda Reed

Give your special someone a timely gift (in more ways than one) during Garmin's Valentine's Day fitness watch sale.

The post A watch is a timeless gift—snag one from Garmin for up to $400 off appeared first on Popular Science.

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A lineup of garmin watches on a pink heart background
Amanda Reed

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Nowadays, watches today don’t just tell time—they can track your steps, play music, and even tell you your pulse. If you’re shopping for someone who raises your heart rate, Garmin has you covered with its fitness watches on sale just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Garmin fenix 6 Pro Solar $399.99 (Was $499.99)

Garmin

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The biggest deal we saw in this sweet Garmin deal was on the fenix 6 Pro Solar Edition, which is $400 off from its OG $799.99 price.

Don’t discount it for being “last year’s model”—this watch still holds up to its adventure watch competition, thanks to its 16-day battery life and support for multiple global navigation systems like GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo. Combined with preloaded TOPO maps, barometric altimeter, and dedicated activity profiles for different sports, you have a watch made for adventure with your favorite buddy, platonic or romantic.

If you’re looking to gift something that blends into everyday life, consider the Lily or vívomove models. The Lily—on sale for $149.99, down from $199.99—complements your look with stylish leather or silicon bands. However, this watch isn’t just a pretty face, thanks to a built-in pulse oximeter, hydration tracker, and connected sports apps. The vívomove—also on sale for $149.99—is for those who want a less pronounced face like the Lily, but are looking for something with a wider band. It also features an analog look with smart features, like sleep monitoring, stress tracking, and activity profiles.

These are Valentine’s-exclusive deals, meaning they’ll disappear once Cupid has packed his bags and goes back to the heart-shaped arrow factory to prep for next year, so act fast.

Here are other Garmin fitness watch deals that move us:

The post A watch is a timeless gift—snag one from Garmin for up to $400 off appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best coin batteries of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-coin-batteries/ Wed, 01 Feb 2023 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=508566
Keep your watches, remotes, and cameras ready to go with the best coin batteries.

Keep your cameras, watches, remotes, and more powered up.

The post The best coin batteries of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Keep your watches, remotes, and cameras ready to go with the best coin batteries.

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Best overall The Panasonic 2016 is the best coin battery overall. Panasonic CR2016
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Power key fobs, calculators, and other small electronics with the CR2016 battery.

Best for watches The LICB LR1130 is the best coin battery for watches. LiCB LR1130
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Keep watches, children’s toys, and more powered up with this affordable 15-pack of alkaline batteries.

Best budget The AmVolt LR44 is the best coin battery at a budget-friendly price. AmVolt LR44
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The LR44 batteries in this budget-friendly value pack are ideal for clocks, toys, watches, and more.

Coin batteries are tiny energy sources that power mobile devices, computers, remotes, toys, key fobs, calculators, electronic thermometers, flashlights, watches, and more. These batteries come in a wide range of different sizes and voltages. But while there are many different types of coin batteries, it’s important to note that even if two different batteries have the same voltage, only the type of battery specified by the device will work properly. In addition, some coin batteries also have safety features, such as a bitter-tasting coating, to discourage kids and pets from swallowing them. Keep reading to learn how to choose the best coin batteries for your devices.

How we picked the best coin batteries

Coin batteries are known by this name because of their shape and because people often had to put a coin into a slot to twist open the compartments to change the batteries. Key factors that helped to select the top products included the battery type, battery shelf life, safety features, and the overall value of the product.

While coin batteries can be used in many different electronic devices, not every device uses the same type of coin battery, and the different types are not interchangeable. With this in mind, the top products are each a different type of coin battery. In addition, we considered the value and battery shelf life together because while it may seem like a great bargain to invest in a 30-pack, you may risk not being able to use all of them before the end of their useful life.

Finally, safety features aren’t something most people consider when purchasing batteries, but some coin batteries can cause death within two hours of being swallowed, so products that attempted to prevent accidental ingestion were considered superior to similar products.

The best coin batteries: Reviews & Recommendations

Our extensive research into more than 40 different coin batteries is backed by years of firsthand experience dealing with a wide variety of different devices that required specific types of batteries to operate.

Best overall: Panasonic CR2016

Panasonic

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Why it made the cut: These CR2016 coin batteries are excellent for key fobs, alarm sensors, clocks, watches, and many other electronic devices.

Specs

  • Type: CR2016
  • Quantity: Two batteries
  • Voltage: 3 volts

Pros

  • Child-resistant packaging
  • Shelf life of up to eight years
  • Advanced sealing technology reduces the chance of chemical leaks
  • Temperature resistant from 14 to 140 degrees F

Cons

  • Only two batteries in a pack

Ensure that your wall clock and alarm clock tell the correct time by replacing dead batteries with a Panasonic CR2016 coin battery. This pack includes four lithium coin batteries that have a nominal voltage of 3 volts and can last for up to eight years. Just keep in mind that this is the batteries’ shelf life, so a battery installed in a device will likely need to be replaced within that eight-year window.

These coin batteries should be used only in devices that require CR2016 batteries to ensure that the device receives the appropriate amount of power without any ill-fitting connections that may cause internal damage to the battery compartment. The batteries come in a child-resistant package that must be opened carefully with scissors. This attempts to prevent the batteries from being swallowed by kids and pets. Additionally, the batteries are resistant to extreme cold and hot temperatures, ranging from 14 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, though exposure to these temperatures will still degrade the batteries’ life.

Best for cameras: Duracell 2032

Duracell

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Why it made the cut: Designed for various electronic devices, such as cameras and medical devices, these CR2032 batteries are one of the most frequently used coin batteries.

Specs

  • Type: CR2032
  • Quantity: Four batteries
  • Voltage: 3 volts

Pros

  • Bitter coating to deter ingestion by children and pets
  • 10-year shelf life
  • Child-resistant packaging
  • Popular battery type suitable for many devices

Cons

  • Only four batteries in a pack

One of the main benefits of using a coin battery instead of a standard cylinder battery is that coin batteries are lightweight, making them ideal for portable devices such as flashlights and watches. Used in cameras, computer motherboards, key fobs, watches, garage-door openers, toys, doorbells, medical devices, fitness trackers, and more, these CR0232 batteries are one of the most popular types of coin battery available, and this small package of four will likely be put to good use quickly.

The Duracell CR2032 3 Volt coin batteries are an excellent option for homes with kids and mischievous pets because not only do they come in a child-resistant package, but they also have a bitter-tasting coating to deter kids and their furry friends from putting them in their mouths. Each 3-volt battery can last for up to 10 years; however, it should be mentioned that some users found that they received an old, dated package with batteries that were already dead. This situation should be able to be resolved by the company with a replacement package, but always make sure to check the date of manufacture to ensure that the products are indeed new.

Best for remote controls: Energizer 2450

Energizer

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Why it made the cut: Store these lithium batteries for up to 10 years or use them immediately in various electronic devices for reliable, long-lasting power.

Specs

  • Type: CR2450
  • Quantity: Two batteries
  • Voltage: 3 volts

Pros

  • Child-resistant packaging
  • 10-year shelf life
  • Leak-resistant casing

Cons

  • Only two batteries

In contrast to the short shelf life and battery life of alkaline coin batteries, these Energizer 2450 3 Volt lithium coin batteries can last for up to 10 years before the stored energy is fully discharged, which should be more than enough time to put these two batteries to good use instead of worrying about throwing them out unused. Additionally, each battery is individually sealed and cannot be accessed without scissors. While the packaging may frustrate some adults, it was intentionally made difficult to open to protect kids and pets from accidentally swallowing the batteries.

These coin batteries have leak-resistant casings to prevent the battery wall from rupturing and leaking chemicals into the package or within a device. This product only comes with two batteries, so users with more than two devices that operate on CR2450 batteries will need to purchase more than one of these two-packs.

Best for watches: LiCB LR1130

LICB

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Why it made the cut: Keep track of the time, stand out during a presentation, and double-check calculations with these LR1130 alkaline batteries for watches, laser pointers, calculators, and more.

Specs

  • Type: LR1130
  • Quantity: 20 batteries
  • Voltage: 1.5 volts

Pros

  • Affordable 20-battery pack
  • Leak-resistant casing
  • Individually sealed compartments for each battery in the package

Cons

  • Short shelf life could lead to wasted batteries

While alkaline batteries are known to have a shorter shelf life than most lithium batteries, they are still a popular choice for powering a variety of electronic devices because they cost less than lithium batteries, and the short shelf life isn’t a concern if the batteries are going to be used immediately. This 20-pack of LiCB LR1130 coin batteries can last up to three years, giving users a decent amount of time to use them in small electronics such as watches, calculators, children’s toys, laser pointers, electronic thermometers, and more.

These alkaline coin batteries are made with a leak-resistant casing to help prevent the batteries from rupturing and damaging the devices. To help protect the batteries that are not currently being used, the package has individually sealed compartments for each battery. 

Best budget: AmVolt LR44

AmVolt

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Why it made the cut: The three-year shelf life and leak-resistant construction help preserve the batteries both when in use and when stored for later use.

Specs

  • Type: LR44
  • Quantity: 15 batteries
  • Voltage: 1.5 volts

Pros

  • Leak-resistant casing
  • 15-battery value pack
  • Compatible with a wide variety of devices

Cons

  • Packaging is not child-resistant

The AmVolt LR44 1.5 Volt coin battery is an affordable option that can be used on numerous electronic devices, including laser pointers, watches, clocks, calculators, cameras, remote controls, toys, flashlights, cholesterol-testing meters, blood glucose testers, and digital voice recorders. This impressive range of uses makes the 15-battery value pack with a three-year shelf life an ideal option for most homes. 

Additionally, these LR44 1.5V coin batteries are made with a leak-resistant casing intended to prevent the battery from rupturing. However, if these batteries are exposed to extremely high temperatures, even this resistant casing may bulge and break. Also, it should be noted that the packaging of these batteries is not child-resistant, so the package needs to be kept out of reach of kids and pets.

Things to consider before buying coin batteries

Before grabbing the first coin batteries that look like they might work, take some time to learn about the various factors that are important to think about before your purchase, such as the battery type, the battery life, and any safety features that can help prevent accidental ingestion.

Coin battery types

 It’s necessary to differentiate between the various coin batteries because even if two coin battery types have equal voltages, the different types are not interchangeable. With this in mind, it’s necessary to check each electronic device to determine the specific type of coin battery the device needs to operate.

Some of the most common types of coin batteries include CR2032, CR2016, CR450, LR44, and LR1130, but there are many more. They also typically come in alkaline or lithium options and may differ in voltage, though 1.5V and 3V are standard voltages for coin batteries.

Battery life

The life of a coin battery is difficult to determine because the rate at which the stored energy is absorbed and used depends on the amount of energy used by the particular device, the frequency with which the device is used, and the number of batteries in the device. For this reason, manufacturers do not often provide this detail; instead, they advertise the shelf life of the battery, which refers to the amount of time the battery can remain effective while not being used.

Alkaline batteries are an affordable option for low-power devices like watches, and they can last up to three years, but they have a short shelf life compared to lithium batteries, which can last up to 10 years in some cases. If you are looking for a battery value pack, remember that even when batteries are not in use, they can still lose the stored energy and become useless.

Safety features

Coin batteries certainly don’t seem as dangerous as poison or power tools. Still, if these little batteries are accidentally eaten they can cause serious harm to the body’s interior. They may even lead to death if the powerful chemicals inside the batteries leak out. Due to this inherent danger, many coin battery manufacturers have improved the battery packaging in an attempt to prevent kids and pets from opening the packages and swallowing the batteries.

Additionally, some companies have added a bitter flavoring to the exterior of each battery so that if a child or pet puts the battery in their mouth, the bitter taste will make them want to spit the battery out and avoid ingesting batteries in the future.

FAQs

Q. What is the most common coin battery?

The most frequently used type of coin battery is the CR2032 battery. It’s a non-rechargeable lithium coin battery regularly used in calculators, watches, fitness trackers, and other small electronic devices.

Q. How long do coin batteries last?

On average, coin batteries will have a shelf life of about two to three years; however, some lithium coin batteries have longer shelf lives and have been known to last up to 10 years without needing to be replaced. It should be noted that the battery life can be diminished by extremely cold or hot temperatures, so the batteries must be stored at room temperature and sheltered from wind, rain, and snow.

Q. Are all 3V coin batteries the same?

The voltage of two or more coin batteries can be equal, but they cannot be used interchangeably. For instance, the CR2016 and CR2032 are both 3-volt batteries. Still, they have different dimensions—the CR2016 is thinner than the CR2032, so a CR2032 battery would not physically fit in a battery compartment made for a CR2016 battery.

Q. Are coin batteries dangerous?

One of the problems with coin batteries is that their small size makes them easy for children and pets to swallow. Once ingested, the child or pet may experience internal harm from electrical currents, physical pressure on sensitive tissues, and leaking chemicals from the battery. To help prevent this, some manufacturers have given the batteries a bitter flavor that discourages children and pets from putting the batteries in their mouths. However, it’s advised to keep coin batteries out of reach of small kids and pets to avoid a trip to the hospital or vet clinic. 

Final thoughts on the best coin batteries

The child-resistant packaging and convenient four-pack make the Panasonic CR2016 coin batteries an excellent option for a home with kids or pets. Still, if you need LR44 batteries, the 15-pack of AmVolt LR44 coin batteries is an affordable option for watches, clocks, remotes, and even game controllers.

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Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar running watch review: The power to persevere https://www.popsci.com/gear/garmin-forerunner-955-solar-running-watch-review/ Thu, 12 Jan 2023 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=504951
Garmin Forerunner 955 running watch morning message on a dog walk
The Forerunner 955 Solar is a motivating accountability partner when used to its full potential. Abby Ferguson

With loads of activity-specific features, Garmin’s flagship running watch can aid performance and productivity with deeper data, tailored training, and bigger battery life.

The post Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar running watch review: The power to persevere appeared first on Popular Science.

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Garmin Forerunner 955 running watch morning message on a dog walk
The Forerunner 955 Solar is a motivating accountability partner when used to its full potential. Abby Ferguson

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There is no shortage of general fitness and multisport smartwatches these days, but fewer catering hyper-specifically to runners, particularly the way the Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar does. This wearable sits at the top of Garmin’s Forerunner line and is jam-packed with helpful training tools, no shortage of smartwatch features, and impressive battery life. Garmin, a multinational specializing in GPS-enabled technology, designed it with endurance athletes in mind, though it still provides many benefits for casual enthusiasts. Following in the footsteps—or is that stride—of the Forerunner 945 (released in 2019), the Forerunner 955 offers several incremental, not necessarily essential updates, as well as a couple of marquee additions. I’ve tested the Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar for six months, giving me plenty of time to learn about the watch and whether it’s a worthy upgrade for most people.

Abby Ferguson

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The Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar’s design

The changes between the Forerunner 945 and Forerunner 955 are subtle, carrying over most of the design language from the previous iteration. This may explain why the launch price of $599.99 is the same between both models. But there are a few things that stand out on the newer iteration. For starters, the transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) display has been upgraded. The 955 uses a 1.3-inch display with a resolution of 260 x 260 pixels, while the older 945 is 1.2 inches with a resolution of 240 x 240 pixels. It’s not a huge difference, but you will get a slightly larger display with the 955, which is nice for quick glances at your numbers while working out. 

The most notable change is that the 955 now features touchscreen capabilities, which the 945 did not. I appreciated the touchscreen functionality, which is one of the main reasons I have stuck with the 955 over my Forerunner 745 or the Instinct 2S Solar. I’ve found that it makes scrolling through widgets and (sub-sub-sub)menu items much easier than repeatedly pushing buttons. And I enjoy tapping the screen to enter a menu or view a notification more. If you are prone to accidentally swiping, you can turn touch off completely or choose which specific activities have touch functionality turned on (it defaults to off for all activities).

Garmin Forerunner 955 running watch widgets on screen
Nearly everything on the watch is customizable, but I like a widget with a summary of my notifications near the top of the widget list. Abby Ferguson

As with the 945, the newest Forerunner features a full-color display. You may expect that it would be more difficult to read in sunny conditions compared to traditional exercise watches’ high-contrast, monochrome display. But that is not the case. I found it as easy to see and read, even at a glance when in direct sun, as my Instinct 2S Solar. And, with the customization options, you can even choose color schemes that are easier to read for you.

Unfortunately, the case and included band are only available in white (technically named “Whitestone,” the version I’ve used) and black instead of a range of colors like other Garmin watches. I was a bit worried about the white staying white. I have been pleasantly surprised by its resilience, however, even while working on a car engine and getting quite greasy. 

The band and large watch case tend to trap water, though, so if you shower or swim in the watch, you will want to take it off to dry things off more thoroughly. I wore my Forerunner 955 for a handful of weeks nonstop and ended up with a bit of a reaction where the sensors are. It was minor and cleared up with some time sans watch, but it’s something to be aware of. 

While the Forerunner is still decidedly a fitness watch in design, it still has rather sleek looks. And considering all the tech that is packed inside, it’s impressively thin (14.4mm). The 46.5 x 46.5mm watch face still looks giant on my wrist, but that’s the trade-off when you want to take advantage of a large screen size on child-sized wrists. 

Materials

The bezel of the watch is made of fiber-reinforced polymer, which seems to be incredibly durable. I have hit this thing on hard surfaces far too many times, and the perimeter doesn’t have a scratch. One of the benefits of the all-plastic design is that it helps cut down on weight. The all-polymer, 46.5mm Forerunner 955 only weighs 1.86 ounces. For comparison, the 47mm fēnix 7 Sapphire Solar features a titanium bezel and fiber-reinforced polymer with a titanium rear cover, weighing 2.57 ounces. That may seem like a tiny amount, but for serious endurance athletes, every fraction of an ounce adds up, making the Forerunner the better choice for those individuals.

Topping the display is rugged Corning Gorilla Glass DX. I managed to scratch mine somehow, so it isn’t impenetrable, but I haven’t exactly babied it either. It would have been nice to get the more durable Power Sapphire glass that tops the fēnix 7 Sapphire Solar or the Sapphire edition of the Garmin epix (Gen 2).

Garmin Forerunner 955 running watch catching the light on its crystal
You can see two scratches on the left side of the watch face, despite the scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass DX. Abby Ferguson

Lastly, the band of the watch is made of silicone. The silicone is a bit thick and, as mentioned, tends to trap moisture, so may not be for everyone. Luckily, it is Garmin QuickFit compatible in the 22mm size so you can purchase bands made of nylon, leather, metal, or titanium instead, should you wish. 

Setting up the Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar

Garmin consistently does a fantastic job of making its products easy to set up and use and remains consistent with the Forerunner 955. This is especially true if you are already a Garmin user. The watch comes with a partial charge so that you can get started right away. You’ll need to download the Garmin Connect app, but the watch walks you through all the necessary steps, making setup clear and confusion-free. It’s a fast process if you do the bare minimum for setup.

Where things get a bit more complicated is all of the personalization available on the watch. While you certainly don’t need to mess with most settings just to get started, there are seemingly endless options—with more added semi-regularly. I appreciate Garmin’s Auto Update—it saves me from having to remember to check for OS updates, which I usually forget—and I feel like I am regularly discovering new things in menus or in the post-workout display, which is always fun. 

The watch face can be fully adjusted, as can any of the visible widgets when you scroll down and the layout of each workout screen. You can even adjust things as nitty-gritty as accent and background colors. If you want to really fine-tune your watch, it could take a while. In fact, I’ve had this watch for around six months and I’m still tweaking things.

The Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar’s features

The Forerunner 955 Solar is so packed with features that I could easily write an entire book describing everything. It seems that the capabilities of this watch are nearly endless. As such, I’ll be focusing on the items that I used most frequently and those that are the most widely helpful. 

Garmin Forerunner 955 side view on wrist
Though they are tiny and a little hard to see, the icons on the Garmin Forerunner 955 buttons can help with navigation. Abby Ferguson

Usability 

Navigating the watch is pretty straightforward, especially if you’ve used a Garmin watch. There are tiny (and hard to see) labels on the bezel and the buttons themselves to point you in the right direction for the most common things you’ll need to access. But, for specific menu items, you’ll likely need to spend some time digging around or reading the manual.

My biggest complaint about the Forerunner 955 is how you turn it off and on. My other Garmin watches have simply involved going to the Power Off menu item, and that was that. But the Forerunner 955 asks you to take the extra step of confirming that you want to turn it off. Given that you have to go into a menu within a menu to get to this, it seems unlikely that you would accidentally turn it off. The extra step is subtle but annoying. 

Additionally, startup time is much slower. Sure, more tech is involved in the Forerunner 955, but it takes just over 20 seconds to turn on fully. It’s nit-picky, sure, but if I’m powering up to get going on a run, it’s a bit annoying to wait for that, especially when that hasn’t been the case on other watches I’ve used.

Data collection and insights

Being at the top of Garmin’s running watch line, the Forerunner 955 comes with just about every possible sensor packed inside. It features the Garmin Elevate Gen4 optical heart rate sensor, barometric altimeter, compass, gyroscope, accelerometer, thermometer, and pulse ox blood oxygen saturation monitor. Those sensors are, of course, used when recording an activity, but many are constantly recording data. For example, you can always check your heart rate and steps. And you can take a pulse ox reading on-demand or while sleeping.

All of those sensor readings are used to provide insights such as Training Status, Training Readiness, stress level, sleep data, and Body Battery. It also provides hyper-specific stats such as run cadence, stride length, vertical ratio, ground contact time, and more. The information is there to help guide your training to maximize your fitness and potentially even assess form issues.

Garmin Forerunner 955 suggesting you take a breath
When the watch detects abnormally high stress levels, it suggests a guided breathing exercise to calm down.  Abby Ferguson

The data collected also helps manage general health with features such as Abnormal Heart Rate alerts. For example, if your heart rate is abnormally high, the watch will suggest breathing exercises to reduce stress and help you calm down. I’ve found this to be a helpful tool in high-stress situations, as it reminds me to reset and mentally take a step back from the thing causing the stress.

GPS

For location tracking and mapping, the Forerunner 955 provides access to three Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)—GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo. There are four settings to choose from—GPS only, All Systems, All Systems + Multi-Band, and Ultratrac—which differ in accuracy and impact on battery life. Ultratrac is the mode for multiday excursions as it provides the best battery life but the worst accuracy. The watch defaults to All + Multi-Band GPS for the most accurate results.

The watch also comes equipped with Garmin’s SatIQ, which determines the optimal GPS mode based on your environment. And new to the 955 is the dual-frequency GPS. This combines the All Systems option but then also connects to two satellites at once for exceptional accuracy, even when in canyons or a city. It does use much more battery, however. 

I only used the watch in pretty wide open spaces but found it to be very accurate with no issues. I compared it to data from a simultaneously worn Instinct 2S Solar (a watch I’ve written extensively about), and they were the same as far as my naked eye could tell. 

Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar and Instinct 2S Solar side by side on a wrist
The Forerunner 955 Solar (left) provides a much more vibrant, easier-to-see-at-a-glance display compared to the Instinct 2S Solar. And it can pack more metrics in one place thanks to the larger screen size. Abby Ferguson

Smartwatch features

Beyond that obvious fitness tracking, the Forerunner 955 is also a robust productivity partner. It can connect to your phone, allowing you to receive messages and notifications. You can even select pre-formatted quick replies to text messages to respond right from your watch. 

The watch lacks a cellular connection and a microphone, however, so you cannot take calls like on an Apple Watch 8, etc. But you can at least see who is calling to determine if you want to bother getting your phone out. And you can reject and respond to calls with pre-formatted messages as well. 

Beyond the basics, you’ll also get access to Garmin Pay, which allows you to save cards to your account and pay with your watch. This is great, in theory, but my bank (USAA) isn’t participating in Garmin Pay, so I have been unable to use the watch for payment. Additionally, you can connect music providers, such as Spotify, to save music or podcasts directly to your device when you don’t want to have your phone on you. Again, this is great in theory, but I ran into nothing but issues when trying to set up music and never was able to get more than a handful of songs to sync. So I haven’t really been able to test that feature successfully.

Safety features

As someone who mostly runs alone, the safety features of the Forerunner 955 are extremely appreciated. And, in line with the rest of the watch, there’s no shortage of them, either. It’s important to note right off the bat that you will need to have your connected phone with service on you to take advantage of these features. And all of these features need to be set up within the app in order to be used. 

The most basic feature enables the basic safety tenet of outdoor recreation: Make sure people know where you are and when you expect to be done. When you begin an activity with GPS (weightlifting, for example, is not included), the watch connects to LiveTrack. This emails a real-time view of your location to your preselected contacts. Or you can share a link (accessed via the app on your phone) with anyone you’d like so they can follow along and ensure you are progressing as anticipated.

Additionally, there are some bigger safety features for even more peace of mind. One enables you to quickly call for assistance directly from the watch with the press of a few buttons. By entering the menu accessed with the top left button, you can navigate to “Assistance.” Once there, there are three options: “It’s an emergency. Please get help,” “Not an emergency, but please pick me up,” and “I need help. Follow my location to find me.” 

Garmin Forerunner 955 running watch safety alerts screenshot
These messages were sent to my husband when I tested the Assistance feature. [The blurred-out sections are my GPS coordinates.] Abby Ferguson

I tested the “Not an emergency” option with my husband to see what would happen, and Garmin sent him a message with the pre-formatted text along with my coordinates. It sent him multiple messages until I selected that I no longer needed assistance, which triggered a follow-up message to him to let him know I was okay. While you do need your phone to take advantage of this feature, it makes it much faster and easier to get help than getting out your phone and texting or calling someone. 

The last safety feature you’ll have access to is incident detection. If your Forerunner 955 detects an incident, it will display a notification on the watch. If that isn’t dismissed promptly, it automatically sends a message with your name and location to your emergency contacts. Unfortunately, Garmin doesn’t provide any information on what this exactly means or how it detects an incident, but in theory, this is an excellent feature to have. It’s worth noting that, unlike the Apple Watch Ultra, the Forerunner 955 cannot notify emergency services for you since it doesn’t include a cellular connection like the Apple Watch. 

Garmin app

When you set up the watch, you must pair it to the Garmin Connect app. The app allows you to see your data in more detail. Of course, you can access most of your insights on the watch itself, but it is a bit easier to digest and sift through via the app, especially if you really want to dive into the data.

Where the app really comes in especially handy is with customization. Just about every setting can also be changed within the app once you select “Forerunner 955” from the Connected Devices list. Changing settings and customizing things via the app is a bit easier to do than on the watch. That’s especially true of the message and workout data screen settings. And some things, such as Garmin Pay, can only be set up in the app.

Battery life

The battery life of this watch is certainly one area where the Forerunner 955 shines. As with anything, the extent of the battery life depends on how you are using the watch but, no matter what, it is impressive. Of course, it’s worth pointing out that any solar battery life estimates mentioned by Garmin are based on “all-day wear with 3 hours per day outside in 50,000 lux conditions.” For someone like me, who works inside and is lucky to get outside for an hour or two, that means I’m not really getting any advantage from solar charging on an average day.

Garmin Forerunner 955 solar intensity screen
You can easily see how much solar intensity your watch is getting. Most of my day was spent inside and, thus, not getting the sun required for solar battery charging.  Abby Ferguson

Garmin promises 15 days of battery life in smartwatch mode or 20 days with solar. During those times that I wasn’t able to exercise much and was using the watch as, well, a watch, I was absolutely getting the promised battery life. As mentioned, I’m not meeting the full required conditions for solar charging, but I did get some boosts that resulted in a few extra days. 

With the watch set to All Systems GNSS mode plus Multi-Band and without music, Garmin says you’ll get up to 20 hours, or 22 hours with solar. Since I didn’t complete any lengthy (more than a few hours) events while testing this watch, I didn’t fully push this to the limits. But, even with using the most accurate GPS setting, I was able to get a 30-minute to an hour-or-so-long workout in daily and still have my watch battery last a full week.

The thing that drained the battery most was fiddling with the settings and downloading music to the watch. I went from 80% battery to just 1% while trying to get a single small playlist to sync fully over the course of a few hours. So, if you aren’t in a situation where you can charge your watch, it’s best to save the settings adjustments and music syncing for another time. 

While the long battery life is certainly appreciated, the thing I most love about my Forerunner 955 is how quickly it charges. I’m guilty of forgetting to charge it up when needed on a far too regular basis. But I can plug it in as I get ready for a run and have it at 50% battery (depending on how low it was to begin with) in just 10 minutes or so. It’s crazy speedy.

The Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar’s activity & fitness tracking experience

As expected, since this is a running watch, the activity tracking options are robust. The 955 comes preloaded with the basic types of workouts—such as running, swimming, and cycling—but you can quickly add just about anything you can think of, including Ultra Run, eMTB, Backcountry Ski, and more. You can even create custom workouts or import workouts from third parties like TrainingPeaks.

Garmin Forerunner 955 running watch recording strength training
Though it’s a running watch, the Forerunner 955 can track just about any type of activity. It even automatically detects sets and reps during strength training workouts. Abby Ferguson

Recording workouts is incredibly easy. It’s done by simply pressing the top right button, selecting the type of workout, and then pushing start. Where things can get complicated, as mentioned, is all the customization you can do. You can choose to adjust what fields are displayed on the watch during your workout, customize notifications and audio cues, along with many different options specific to different types of workouts.

Training status and readiness

As you complete activities and wear your watch throughout the day (and night), Garmin collects data to offer insights into your training. The Training Status feature shows whether you are actively getting fitter (productive), holding steady, or even detraining (the worst). It can even tell you what types of activities you should add more of to maximize your training. For example, mine frequently tells me that I have a low aerobic shortage and need to work in easier runs.

Training Readiness is another helpful tool. As the name implies, it helps you assess how ready you are for your training. It may suggest that you back off and give yourself more time to recover or that you are prepared to dive right into a serious workout. It simply helps to keep you from overtraining and gives you a more clear picture of your training load. 

Both are very nice, but you can’t take full advantage of them if you aren’t wearing your watch 24/7. For example, to collect heart rate variability (HRV) data, you’ll need to wear the watch while you sleep. I’m not a fan of sleeping in a watch, so I don’t get highly accurate data for some of these fields as a result.

Garmin Forerunner 955 suggested workout screen
Your first activity of the day will show a suggested workout based on data the watch has collected recently. Abby Ferguson

Suggested workouts

One feature I love about Garmin watches is the “Suggested Workouts” for running or cycling. These can be accessed in the Morning Report or when you start a workout. When providing these suggestions, Garmin factors in the above items, plus your Training Load & Load Focus, VO2 Max, and more. The result is that they are customized to you. It then suggests a workout to improve your fitness based on all that data. It’s great for days when you don’t want to think about what you should do or if you want something different but don’t want to pay for a coach.

Of course, these features should be taken with a grain of salt. Garmin doesn’t know if you are getting over an illness, dealing with stress at work, or managing an injury. It can infer some things based on the data it collects, but it won’t be perfect. There have been many times that my watch suggested a sprint, VO2 Max, or long run when my body could not handle that at the time. Your best bet is to use it all as a guide, listen to your body, and, if you really want results, hire a coach.

So, who should buy the Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar?

As the watch’s name suggests, the Forerunner is truly a running watch. Sure, it offers all the basic—and not-so-basic—watch functions to make it suitable for anyone wanting a smartwatch. But if you aren’t an exercise enthusiast, you’ll be paying for many features and tech that you won’t actually be using.

And the extensive list of training features makes the watch more suitable for avid, focused runners looking to improve performance. It’s especially useful for runners competing in races. That said, as someone who is currently more of a casual runner than anything else, I found it rather motivational and aspirational. I’m not currently training for any races or even pushing the limits hard (thanks to some nagging injuries), so while I don’t necessarily care about things like the Race Prediction widget, it is fun to see those numbers changing when I’m consistent with my working out. At the same time, the Forerunner 255 can provide many of the same training and health features for an average of $258 less.

And, in terms of the Solar capabilities, which come at a $100 surcharge, they don’t seem to provide a substantial enough boost over the basic battery version for most. But if you’re one of the runners who can benefit from the lengthy list of features packed into this watch, particularly the touchscreen, the Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar will be a fantastic training partner.

The post Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar running watch review: The power to persevere appeared first on Popular Science.

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Gear to help us (and you) keep those New Year’s resolutions https://www.popsci.com/gear/new-years-resolutions-ideas/ Sun, 01 Jan 2023 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=502404
New Year's Resolution Gear
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

These are the gadgets we're picking up to help keep us accountable in 2023.

The post Gear to help us (and you) keep those New Year’s resolutions appeared first on Popular Science.

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New Year's Resolution Gear
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

We’ve made it to 2023, which means the PopSci commerce and gear team has decided what our resolutions will be and what we’ll need to achieve them. It’s okay to be a New Year’s resolution skeptic—there are plenty of potential pitfalls in trying to make literal life-changing decisions overnight—but we’re taking a different approach. Our goals can be accomplished little by little over the course of the year, the gear we’re using won’t take up too much space, and we’re not afraid of facing some setbacks every little while. After all, it’s only self-care if it doesn’t cost you mental health. If you’re scrambling to figure out how to make your New Year’s resolutions happen, we hope our gear suggestions can provide a little clarity (and encouragement).

Vitamix FoodCycler FC-50

Jen McCaffery

SEE IT

An estimated 30 to 40 percent of the food supply in the United States is wasted, according to the USDA. If you’re looking to cut down on the amount of food waste you send to the landfill in 2023, Vitamix’s FoodCycler FC-50 can help. Just toss your vegetable peelings, egg shells, coffee grounds, and even chicken bones into the 2-liter container and press the on button. About four hours later, your scraps are turned into nutrient-rich soil you can use for your houseplants or in your garden. — Jen McCaffery, Director of Commerce

Kindle Paperwhite

Amazon

SEE IT

Too many times in 2022, I found myself laying in bed at 2 a.m., basking in the hypnotizing glow of TikTok. The lure of people arguing with belligerent neighbors or endless strings of air fryer chicken thigh recipes is just too strong. This year, I’m determined to replace those hours spent mindlessly swiping with reading, and I’m counting on Amazon’s Kindle Paperwhite to help me pull it off. The 6.8-inch touchscreen offers soft, warm light that won’t mess with my sleep after a marathon session spent reading Brandon Sanderson. Plus, the latest version charges via USB-C, so it’ll help my other resolution of getting rid of all the MicroUSB cables hanging around my house. — Stanley Horaczek, Executive Editor

Mr. Coffee Iced Coffee machine

Mr. Coffee

SEE IT

The iced coffee I like at a well-known chain has recently risen to nearly $6. Not even a raging caffeine addiction can justify that cost. This super-simple machine doesn’t rely on wasteful coffee pods and comes with an insulated cup, even though it works with pretty much any other cold up. It simply brews hot coffee over iced cubes, which is sure to make your coffee snob pals bristle, but it’s still better (and even cheaper) than the gas station swill I’ve been known to drink in the past. Plus, all that saved money leaves room in the coffee budget for fancy syrups to spruce up the wallet-friendly brew. — Stanley Horaczek, Executive Editor

Kindle Scribe

Amazon

SEE IT

I’m trying to (finally) complete The Artist’s Way, Julia Cameron’s crash course in kickstarting your creativity after about two years of stopping halfway. Part of the journey includes journaling three pages every morning—simply called “morning pages.” If you do the math, that’s a lot of pages and trees. I’m hoping the Kindle Scribe—with its paperwhite display and pen that won’t leave ink marks on my hands first thing in the morning—will help protect the environment and be the fancy, shiny, neat thing that gives me enough dopamine to organize my morning pages and complete the separate chapter prompts in one convenient, digital place. Spiritual and creative clarity, here I come. — Amanda Reed, Commerce Updates Writer

Garmin Forerunner 955

Garmin

SEE IT

Setting a fitness goal is one thing, but having a way to track your progress and keep you motivated is another beast entirely. Garmin’s Forerunner 955 is sleek and attractive, so you won’t mind wearing it all day, but it has a nearly endless list of features and tricks. Though it’s geared toward runners, it can track a long list of activities. It also connects to your phone for full smartwatch capabilities and provides workout suggestions when you are stumped on how to move on a given day. Plus, it makes it easy to see how your training is going and how you are progressing toward your goals, giving you specific insight on how you can improve when needed. — Abigail Ferguson, Associate Editor PopPhoto

Nest Hub Max Smart Display

Nest

SEE IT

Eating out (and ordering in) has always been pricier than cooking at home, but that is more true than ever right now. It’s hard fighting the temptation just to tap a few buttons and have food magically show up ready to eat at your door but, for me, having an easy way to follow recipes helps. I’m a recent Nest Hub enthusiast but have loved the larger screen that always stays on as I work through the steps of a recipe. And it makes it easy to store recipes I like in one place. But the biggest bonus is the ability to play music on something other than my phone, so I can jam out while I cook. It does wonders for making me not mind being in the kitchen even after a long day of work. — Abigail Ferguson, Associate Editor PopPhoto

Ring Fit Adventure

Nintendo

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I will be making a concerted effort to be more active after years of COVID-inflicted lethargy, but my tool of choice may seem a little strange: a video game. Ring Fit Adventure is a game for the Nintendo Switch that comes with a Pilates ring and leg strap with slots for the system’s Joy-Con controllers. Accelerometers and gyroscopes in the Joy-Con can track your movement, which correlates to actions happening in the game. Instead of passively choosing an attack, you defeat enemies by doing squats, curls, and other exercises. As an avid gamer, I hope Ring Fit Adventure can slot into my lifestyle more easily than a set of barbells. — Brandt Ranj, Commerce Reporter

iFixit Pro Tech Toolkit

iFixit

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Repairing technology can feel daunting, especially when many companies make documentation and spare parts difficult (if not impossible) to get, but that will not deter me next year. I have a great deal of respect for iFixit, a site that offers step-by-step instructions on how to disassemble and reassemble gadgets along with links to parts when possible. The site offers a tool kit with bits, spudgers, tweezers, and everything else you’ll need to get into your gear safely and easily. This kit is notable for featuring pentalobe screws, which are proprietary and designed by Apple. If you plan on joining the DIY movement next year, this kit deserves a spot in your workspace. — Brandt Ranj, Commerce Reporter

Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2

Bowers & Wilkins

SEE IT

I’m ashamed to say I have a huge music backlog, but I plan to listen to one new (to me) album from front to back every day in 2023. I reserve the right to listen to one disc of a two-CD (or LP) record because I make the rules. While I love speakers, my tool of choice this time will be Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2s, which are infinitely more portable. These Bluetooth headphones are the closest I’ve come to taking my at-home audio system—which consists of wired headphones, a tube amp, and a DAC—with me everywhere I go. Music sounds superb, the headphones are very comfortable, and their active noise cancellation is always top-notch. This is the resolution I’m most excited about, if for no other reason than spending dozens of hours with the Px7 S2s on my head. Maybe, if I’m feeling extra committed, I’ll even upgrade to the B&W Px8, the brand’s flagship wireless headphones that further refine the physical build and sonic profile. — Brandt Ranj, Commerce Reporter

Brava Oven Starter Set

Brava

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Cooking at home more often is my final resolution of 2023, and the Brava Oven is the key to making it happen. The 10-in-1 oven supports multi-zone heating and makes a whole dinner faster than a conventional oven or stovetop. The oven can be operated using an app or its built-in touch screen, and Brava is continually updating its recipe library with new dishes to fit any dietary restrictions. Yes, it’s luxe, but cutting out one takeout order per week using the Brava will allow the machine to pay for itself. — Brandt Ranj, Commerce Reporter

OTOTO Gracula Garlic Crusher

OTOTO

SEE IT

I love garlic and plan on cooking more. This Gracula garlic crusher takes knife work out of the equation when presentation isn’t important and helps you get close to a minced consistency in a fraction of the time. On top of saving prep time, a way to work more fresh garlic into meals has the benefits of being a natural antibacterial/detoxifier, aiding blood circulation/lowered blood pressure, while also repelling vampires. Plus, it just tastes good. — Billy Cadden, Director of Commerce

AQUAFIT One Gallon Water Bottle

AQUAFIT

SEE IT

I wish this fit into my Aarke seltzer maker, but I guess good old-fashioned flat water will do. While attempting to cook more garlic-rich meals and use my Tempo daily, I decided to snag a gallon water bottle to keep me hydrated. Or at least try to convince me to stay hydrated. I bet you $10 it sits on my bedside table with the same water for weeks. — Billy Cadden, Director of Commerce

Arc’teryx Kyanite AR Hoodie and Pearl iZUMi Prospect Barrier Jacket

Arc’Teryx/Pearl iZUMi

SEE IT

In 2023, I want to get outdoors more. Hiking. Biking. Though I love reporting on tech, I need to get away from it more, even if for only a few hours. Just because I’m coming out of my virtual (and real) shell doesn’t mean I won’t need a protective layer or two, however. The Arc’teryx Kyanite AR Hoodie is a multisport midlayer that’s far from middle of the road. A worthwhile investment, it’s light, soft, stretchy, and, most importantly, surprisingly warm when traveling on the trail. Did I say I’m coming out of my shell? That doesn’t mean I won’t need some wind and water resistance if I’m in the saddle in the city, so I’m also hanging the Pearl iZUMi Prospect Barrier Jacket in my closet when I need something to cut a brisk breeze and absorb a bit of light rain and road spray. — Tony Ware, Associate Managing Editor, Commerce

Vasque Men’s Breeze Waterproof Hiking Boots

Tony Ware

SEE IT

If I’m going to maintain my getting-outdoors-more resolution throughout 2023, I need accessories that can also go the distance. And one of the most important is trusty mid-range footwear. Lightweight, breathable, and comfortable to … boot … the Vasque Breeze immediately impressed me by requiring zero break-in, then continued to impress me with its stability and traction. While I haven’t submerged my feet to test the proprietary VasqueDry waterproofing fully, I’ve had no complaints following some light but sustained drizzles. And, with each component of the boot’s construction being made from 25%, 60%, and sometimes 100% recycled materials, I can feel better for the Earth as I explore it. — Tony Ware, Associate Managing Editor, Commerce

The post Gear to help us (and you) keep those New Year’s resolutions appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE review: A fitness watch that won’t leave you stranded https://www.popsci.com/reviews/garmin-forerunner-945-lte-review/ Mon, 15 Nov 2021 23:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=378989
Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE on a table
The screen has plenty of room for information. Brian Stillman

The Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE doesn’t require a phone to keep you on track, or to help if things go sideways.

The post Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE review: A fitness watch that won’t leave you stranded appeared first on Popular Science.

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Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE on a table
The screen has plenty of room for information. Brian Stillman

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Smartphones are annoying to tote along on a run, but they can come in very handy. A friend of mine once had a medical emergency while jogging and was able to call 911. My wife sometimes receives uncomfortable attention from strangers while training for races, so she likes the reassurance that comes from being able to call me or a friend if she ever feels unsafe. But both have told me that, all things being equal, they don’t enjoy strapping a phone to an arm or finding a way to secure one in small pockets. That’s where the new Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE sports watch comes in. As its name suggests, the company built LTE technology into one of its popular fitness tracker watches, the Forerunner 945 first released in 2019, so that it now provides powerful safety alerts in addition to advanced athletics tracking in a sophisticated wearable. 

However, the Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE can’t break fully from a connected device. You’ll still need your smartphone if you want to stream music from Spotify, get and respond to text messages, make calls, or receive Twitter updates or photos, etc. Replacing your phone isn’t Garmin’s goal. Instead, the company has packed an already feature-rich running watch with a number of reassuring wireless tools. So read on to find out if the latest iteration of the Forerunner 945—and the added cost of its LTE—are right for you. 

Brian Stillman

SEE IT

The Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE’s design

This Forerunner is a surprisingly classy athletic watch. It’s not as chunky as the company’s Instinct Solar [check out our hands-on review]. And, while nowhere near as sleek as the Venu 2 [see our thoughts on that model], the understated design looked good when I met some coworkers for dinner. At 44.4 mm in diameter, 13.9 mm thick, and only 49 grams, it’s comfortable, too. Like many of Garmin’s sports watches, the Forerunner dons a familiar array of five control buttons, which I had no problem finding by touch while working out. 

The watch’s lens is made from strong Corning Gorilla Glass DX (similar to the material used on various smartphones) and it’s set into a fiber-reinforced polymer bezel. This watch can take some abuse. The included silicone watchband feels fine, but it traps sweat and I’d prefer something that breathes more. Thankfully, Garmin and third-party providers offer dozens of replacement bands. Finding the right look and feel requires only a quick Internet search. 

The bright, color display provides ample information at a glance, and it’s easy to read in full sunlight. Backlighting helps when it gets darker. Garmin preloaded the Forerunner 945 LTE with a number of watch face options. You can download more from the GarminConnect store or third parties. From there, it’s easy to tweak what information is displayed and how it’s laid out. You can also adjust the colors. Personally, I prefer a simple watch face with the time and date. I included message alerts for a while, but I get so many during the day that I can’t keep up, and seeing an icon with the number 75 next to it was just embarrassing. Three clicks of a button and, unlike all those unanswered message alerts, it was gone.

Setting up the Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE

Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE on a wrist
It’s a chunky bit of gear, but it’s packed full of features. Brian Stillman

My watch arrived 92-percent charged out of the box. I still topped it off by plugging it into a USB power source (you’ll need to supply your own adapter). In typical Garmin fashion, it charges via a proprietary multipin cable. Some companies, like Apple, have opted for wireless magnetic charging, but using a cable is definitely faster. 

Garmin reports that the battery lasts up to two weeks in smartwatch mode and up to seven hours in GPS mode with music and LTE LiveTrack activated. In my tests, I was able to go a little more than 13 days before the watch died on me. However, in GPS mode, it did last the reported seven hours, though not much more. 

Once charged, the watch guided me through its setup using helpful prompts that started by linking to my phone through Bluetooth to take advantage of the downloadable Garmin Connect app (available for both iOS and Android). From there, I established my baseline for health tracking, including weight, height, and sleep patterns, as well as other biometrics. I was also able to link the watch’s Spotify app to my account in order to stream music through my device or play music I downloaded to the Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE itself. The app then provided a quick-start guide to the watch’s top-level navigation and functions. You can also activate some of the community features, like challenges.

This is also where you set up your LTE plan. I was thrilled to discover I didn’t need to contact my cellphone service provider to activate a second line. In fact, you don’t need to sign up for a plan with any of the phone providers. The watch uses Garmin’s own cellular service. You’ll have to pay $5.99 per month with an annual subscription ($6.99 a month without). You’ll have to decide for yourself whether that fits your budget, but I found the price more than reasonable for what this watch provides. 

LTE connectivity

I was excited by the prospect of the Forerunner’s new LTE connectivity. I dreamed of owning Dick Tracy’s communicator watch when I was a kid, so the lure of having a wearable that wasn’t tethered to my iPhone was impossible to ignore. But that’s not exactly what Garmin had in mind when they designed this sports watch. 

The Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE, which costs $50 more than the base model, uses its over-the-air functionality to add helpful tracking features for both performance metrics and well-being, such as real-time progress sharing, crash detection, and emergency response team assistance request.

The Assistance tool is the one you hope you never have to use. It sends a message to your emergency contacts if you’re feeling unsafe or you’re lost, and it includes location data so they can find you. Assistance Plus takes this a step further by sending your name and location to the Garmin IERCC, which is a professional emergency response coordination center that then contacts emergency services to get you out of trouble. This is the same technology Garmin uses on its navigation tools to help rescue people at sea, when mountain climbing, and in other extreme situations. For extreme runners, backcountry skiers, wilderness hikers, people who like to swim in the open ocean, this safety tool is a no-brainer.

Taking it for a test run

Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE fitness mode
Big, clear graphics make it easy to see during a workout. Brian Stillman

I tested out LiveTrack, a tool that lets friends and family follow your location in real-time, on a jog through my new neighborhood. My friend, back in his apartment, followed my route without any trouble through an invite-only web portal. Of course, it also showed him how long I chilled out in the park halfway through my run. The tool was accurate enough that he could even figure out which bench I sat on. Busted!  

Spectator Messaging is a fun tool that lets friends, family, coaches, or teammates add some extra motivation during a race by delivering audio and text messages.

Finally, Live Event Sharing automatically sends race updates to your friends so they can stay up-to-date on your pace, location, and time. No need to press a button or do anything else that might break your concentration or interrupt your stride.

The rest of the specs

The Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE puts a lot of information on your wrist, but the lack of touchscreen technology means navigating what to me often felt like a maze of submenus. Expect a learning curve.

That said, hot-buttons take you to convenient widgets that provide snapshots of such biometric data as heart rate, step count, run details, and pulse ox. Some widgets report the weather, provide calendar alerts, notifications, and similar information. This is just surface-level information; dive deeper via the watch or the Garmin Connect app.

Thankfully, dedicated buttons access the music player and stopwatch, two features that I hate hunting for in the middle of a workout.

While navigating the watch is sometimes trickier than I’d like, Garmin does an excellent job of conveying information clearly and concisely through the smart use of icons, colors, and easy-to-read text. I only needed to glance at my wrist to read my lap time and heart rate.

Keep track of your movement and activities

The Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE tracks all sorts of preloaded activities—like biking, paddling, hiking, walking, snowboarding, and rafting. You can easily add new ones. With its focus on running, it’s no surprise this GPS fitness watch provides different running options, including outdoor, indoor track, and trail. You can also get real-time feedback on your form, including cadence, vertical oscillation, ground contact time, stride length, and more by pairing it with a running dynamics accessory. 

The watch suggests times for heat and altitude acclimation, lactate threshold, predicted race times, and training load and focus. It even provides daily suggested workouts. It tracks sleep data and then combines it with other information to help compute body battery, a measurement of energy levels. This, in turn, cycles back into the data set that helps the watch set up workout plans. 

Garmin has a long history of making excellent navigation tools, and the Forerunner 945 LTE includes full-color mapping of streets and trails, plus you can create your own courses in the Garmin Connect app. ClimbPro ascent planner displays real-time information including gradient, distance, and elevation gain. The Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE also includes turn-by-turn navigation and round-trip routing. 

Pay as you play

I like to keep my wallet secured in my locker when working out at the gym. The Garmin Pay feature lets me use my watch to pay for things like juice or a light snack in the same way that I might use my phone and Apple Pay. Just add a credit or debit card to the Garmin Pay wallet and you’re all set. It’s also handy for anyone who worries about losing their credit cards when running, or who spends a lot of time in the water. No one likes a wad of soggy cash.

So, who should buy the Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE?

The Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE is an upgrade to the original Forerunner 945, but it’s not an upgrade everyone needs. It provides peace of mind and fun features for fitness trackers, especially racers, but if you spend most of your workout time in the gym or running on a local track or in a safe neighborhood, you could save some money by considering running watches like the original Forerunner 945 or the Instinct line. They cost less but have nearly the same tracking, measurement, and training capabilities. 

Related: Apple Watch comparison

The post Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE review: A fitness watch that won’t leave you stranded appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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14 refurbished gifts that will last, if they last https://www.popsci.com/gear/refurbished-gifts/ Sat, 10 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=497069
You can find plenty of savings with the best refurbished gifts that will last.

Score some savings while keeping items out of the landfill. But act fast! These refurbished gift deals won't last as long as the actual products.

The post 14 refurbished gifts that will last, if they last appeared first on Popular Science.

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You can find plenty of savings with the best refurbished gifts that will last.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best TV The Samsung 65-Inch NEO QLED *K TV is one of the best refurbished gifts that will last. Samsung QN65QN800A 65 Inch Neo QLED 8K Smart TV (2021)
SEE IT

Save while getting ahead of the crowd with the latest in audio and video TV technology.

Best drone The DJI Mini 2 is one of the refurbished gifts that will last. DJI Mini 2 Fly More Combo Quadcopter
SEE IT

This popular drone is suited for beginners and established photographers alike.

Best earbuds The Apple AirPods Pro are a refurbished gift that will last. AirPods Pro
SEE IT

Get the AirPods Pro at a reduced price before they sell out … again!

The holidays can inevitably raise a conflict: We may want to find gifts that delight our family and friends but are aware of the environmental impact new products can have. A good compromise? Refurbished goods that have already been purchased, returned, and restored. They can help you cut down on the number of new products you’re buying and save you money. Since these are pre-owned items, you should look closely at the item’s condition and what’s part of the package and check the return policy before making any purchases. That said, you can save hundreds on tech that may not be the latest model but is still one of the best refurbished gifts that will last.

Best TV: Samsung QN65QN800A 65 Inch Neo QLED 8K Smart TV (2021)

Samsung

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There’s no getting around it: TVs, especially those equipped with the latest technology, are expensive. That’s why it’s a great time to take advantage of this refurbished smart TV from Samsung. Its 8K video and QLED display with its mini-LED backlights provide a stunning picture, and your recipient won’t need to upgrade for years to come.

Best Windows laptop: 2022 Acer HD IPS Chromebook

Acer

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For the student in your life, this versatile 15-inch model from Acer comes equipped with an LED display, and an Intel dual-core Celeron processor that can work at impressive speeds of up to 2.55GHz. This Chromebook also features MicroSD card reader, 4GB of RAM, plus an HDMI port plus two USB-A ports and two USB-C ports for maximum connectivity. And they can return it for a replacement or refund within 90 days if they are unhappy with the purchase.

Best MacBook: 2020 Apple MacBook Pro with Apple M1 Chip

Apple

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If you’re not looking to shell out the money for the latest MacBook, the 2020 version will still serve most users well. This 13-inch model is designed with Apple’s M1 chip for faster performance and processing power. It’s designed with Apple’s signature Retina display, and it comes with 8GB of RAM and up to 20 hours of battery life.

Best VR headset: Meta Oculus Quest 2 Headset

Meta

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Give the gift of an alternate reality—without paying as much very real money. Meta’s latest iteration of the Oculus Quest comes with hi-res display and fast processing that allows users to g deep into the metaverse. Users can also game with new titles and older ones, plus get access to screenings, concerts, and more.

Best smartwatch: Apple Watch Series 6

Apple

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This smartwatch may not have the crash detection of the new Apple Watch Series 8, but it still provides plenty of great features for a reduced price. Its always-on Retina display allows users to answer texts and keep tabs on their heart health with the ECG feature. Plus, it’s dialed into various workouts, and lets users listen to their favorite tunes from Apple Music. 

Best iPad: Apple iPad (10.2-inch, 8th Gen)

Apple

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Looking for a gift for an artist? This 10.2-inch Apple iPad comes with a Retina display and is equipped with an 8-megapixel front and back camera. It also comes with stereo speakers and works with smart keyboards and the Apple Pencil (1st Gen). Plus, the battery lasts for up to 10 hours.

Best earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro

Apple

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AirPods are ubiquitous, but if you haven’t yet bitten the bullet because of the price, here’s your opportunity to save on the original standard-bearer. They are both water- and sweat-resistant, with silicone eartips that come in three sizes to make sure they give all type of ears the best experience. Plus, they provide active noise cancellation so users can tune out the outside world in favor of your music of choice.

Bose

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This mini speaker will let the music lover in your life bring the party wherever they go. Designed with Bose’s signature sound quality, this battery-powered speaker works with a Bluetooth range of up to 30 feet. And weighing in at a pound, the Mini II is easy to tuck into a backpack.

Best drone: DJI Mini 2 Fly More Combo Quadcopter

DJI

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Photographers, new and established, can appreciate this drone, made by one of the top names in the category. This quadcopter can capture 4K video in addition to 12-megapixel stills. This battery-powered drone is easy to transport at less than one pound, and this set comes with remote control, carrying case, and accessories. It can also be returned within one year if you’re not satisfied.

Best mini projector: Nebula Capsule by Anker

Anker

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The cinephile in your life will thrill to this handy mini projector by Anker. Easily connected by USB, Micro USB, and HDMI, this projector provides vivid images of up to 100 inches and a 360-degree speaker for a cinematic experience. And it should last for up to 4 hours of viewing time.

Best robot vacuum: iRobot Roomba i4

iRobot

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Make life a little easier for pet owners with the gift of a robot vacuum that won’t complain about chores. iRobot’s Roomba i4 is designed with sensors to best map homes and can be customized with the accompanying app. This powerful cleaner is designed for carpets and works especially well on cat and dog hair.

Best handheld vacuum: Shark ION W1 Handheld Vacuum

Shark

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Help a small space dweller out with this handheld vacuum by Shark. The battery-powered device provides 22.2 volts of energy for a deep clean. It’s recommended for use on upholstery and comes with a nozzle and crevice tool to get down into the sofa. It can also be used in the car.

Best blender: Vitamix Explorian Blender

Vitamix

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For a family member with many mouths to feed, this Vitamix Explorian Blender should be a welcome gift. A professional-grade blender is an all-purpose tool that can make quick work of soups, salsa, margaritas, and more. This 64-ounce device has 10 settings that allow it to double as a food processor. And it’s dishwasher-safe, so cleanup is also a cinch. 

Best air fryer: NINJA Foodi LG450 5-in-Air Fryer and Electric Grill

The home chef that hasn’t yet invested in an air fryer should appreciate this versatile model. Made by trusted brand Ninja, this 5-in-1 programmable device justifies the counter space by serving as an air fryer, baker, and indoor grill and in one, making getting meals on the table a lot easier. And if there’s one thing a great refurbished gift should do, it is save time, trouble, and money.

The post 14 refurbished gifts that will last, if they last appeared first on Popular Science.

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Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch review: A kids’ device that brings its game face https://www.popsci.com/reviews/tobi-2-kids-smartwatch/ Tue, 31 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=392640
Tobi 2 Robot smartwatch smiling watch face
Tobi the Robot is engaging and energetic, inspiring your kids to move. Andrew Waite

The Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch’s portable personality motivates movement and promotes learning for children.

The post Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch review: A kids’ device that brings its game face appeared first on Popular Science.

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Tobi 2 Robot smartwatch smiling watch face
Tobi the Robot is engaging and energetic, inspiring your kids to move. Andrew Waite

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When it comes to my kids and technology, I often feel at a loss. Technology can engage and stimulate kids in ways our parents never imagined (and probably wish they could have plunked in front of us). And yet, watching my daughter zoned out in front of a “CoComelon” cartoon makes me want to swear off screens entirely. So when I tested out the Little Tikes Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch, I didn’t entirely know how I would feel.

On the one hand, it is yet another screen-based device reaching for—and often clutching tightly—my preschool-age daughter’s attention. On the other hand, many of the smartwatch’s apps and activities are designed to either test her mind, get her on her feet—or both. The Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch, complete with its lively robot who laughs and cries and demands to be played with—literally chiming in with activity and game ideas—accomplishes all of this. And while I did find the Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch, like many of the best kids’ smartwatches, to be more in line with kids’ toys than school supplies, I couldn’t completely overlook some notable benefits.

Andrew Waite

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What is the Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch?

The Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch truly lives up to both parts of its name. It’s a kids’ smartwatch that can track steps, encourage you to run around, take photos, and send messages. It also has most of the usual functions you’d have on a smartwatch, including a timer, alarm, calculator, and calendar. But its personality—and, oh boy, does it have personality—comes from the Tobi robot face. The Tobi robot can cycle through more than 100 expressions, and frequently speaks gibberish, demanding to be cared for and played with through gestures like shivering and clickable thought bubbles that lead to a menu of activities. It reminded me of the digital pets that were popular when I was a kid (Tamagotchi anyone?). 

A follow-up to last year’s Tobi Smartwatch, the Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch offers many of the same games and activities as the original, while adding to the connectivity between Tobi Robot smartwatches. In addition to sharing voice messages and emoji, the Tobi 2 lets kids send and receive images and videos, and play games head-to-head when two Tobi 2 watches communicate via an ad-hoc Wi-Fi connection. (Plus, kids can use the Tobi 2 as a remote with the separately available Tobi 2 Interactive Karaoke Machine or Tobi 2 Director’s Camera, if you decide to invest more in the Little Tikes ecosystem.)

The Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch’s design 

Like a lot of kid-friendly tech, the Tobi Robot 2 is purposefully oversized. At about 1.5 inches by 1.75 inches, the LED touchscreen face itself isn’t actually much bigger than a regular smartwatch’s face, but the housing around it extends to accommodate metal flippers that the Tobi robot shows off when seeking attention (it reminded me of a pinball machine). My 3.5-year-old daughter, still a bit too young to use the watch completely on her own, loved it whenever those fins popped out. The silicone band, which is available in bright colors like red and purple, is 1 inch wide and dotted with 10 rows of holes that allow for tighter and looser fits. It expanded to fit my wrist and tightened enough for my 3.5-year-old daughter’s wrist. The back of the face is transparent, letting kids see into the smartwatch’s inner workings.  

There are two onboard cameras, both capable of shooting 640- by 480-pixels photos or 320- by 240-pixels video. The first camera, on the face, is motion-activated and primarily for selfies. The second, along the top edge, is an outward-facing P.O.V. camera better for taking footage of the rest of the world.

A physical button below the face lets kids toggle between screens—from Tobi’s face to a clock to a menu of available functions. Below that home button is the micro-USB charging port. Also included is a color-coordinated case that features a clip built into the back that lets the watch attach to a belt or stand on a bedside table.

Setting up the Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch       

The Tobi 2 has an intuitive setup process that puts parents in control. Hold the menu button for five seconds to wake Tobi up. Select your language, and then set the date and time using scrollable menus on the touchscreen. Then name your device by cycling through the alphabet, numbers, and set of symbols to change each unit. Parents can set a passcode, choose whether they want to turn on Wi-Fi to let it talk to other Tobi 2 watches, and limit their kid’s screentime. I opted for an hour. When my daughter hit the limit, the watch locked its games and stopped showing Tobi’s face unless the passcode was entered.

Once set up, it was playtime. If you’re on the clock screen, you can swipe to select from more than 50 watch faces—a kind of game in its own right. My daughter, of course, went with a rainbow face, but the options range from simple analog clocks to a desertscape to themes with dogs and cats.  Meanwhile, on the application menu, four options are displayed at once, and you can swipe between four screens. This lets you do everything from take photos to test your memory to track your steps.

On the Tobi screen, you can interact with the gibberish-speaking robot. Tobi will show icons with activity ideas, and if you’re on that screen the robot won’t stop bugging you unless you’re still for 25 seconds. For many kids, that means Tobi simply won’t stop until the kid—or, let’s face it, the parent—decides it’s time to turn the watch off completely.  

Features of the Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch 

Here are some of the characteristics of a watch brimming with character…

Meet Tobi

Tobi the Robot is literally the face of the watch. The digital friend is certainly fun and spunky, but I’d be lying if I said that little robot never got under my skin. When the watch is set to the Tobi face, the robot makes more than 100 expressions—from a sly smile and plucky grin to a wistful wink and a pensive pursing of the lips. Tobi behaves like a digital pet. Icons pop up with Tobi’s needs—Tobi can be hot, cold, hungry, in need of teeth brushing. Much like my daughter, come to think of it. And if you don’t oblige Tobi’s needs, you’ll be informed. For instance, before realizing that Tobi was cold and wanted a hot water bottle or a scarf, I offered to play soccer. That produced an “uh-uh” and a head shake. Tobi also suggests dance parties and displays the step tracker, encouraging the wearer to walk or run. The gamified approach to fitness is definitely effective. But as with any helpful yet slightly irksome friend, it’s best to hang out only in small doses.  

Mind games and mindless fun 

The Tobi 2 comes with four educational “brain games” and four “arcade games.” The brain games include “Smash Math,” in which players touch the correct solution to the equation, and “Match Match,” which tests memory. Arcade games include “A-Maze-Ing Balance,” in which players guide colored balls into holes, and “Drivin’ Time,” in which players collect tokens and try to avoid crashes. The games can be controlled using the touchscreen as well as motion controls via a built-in gyroscope. The games are fun and run smoothly…most of the time. 

Movement motivation 

Like any good fitness tracker, the Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch is designed to get you moving.  It features a built-in pedometer that logs your steps and rewards progress with unlockable “Tobi World” room decorations, letting you decorate different rooms that Tobi will come to check out. (Playing games and interacting with Tobi also earns you decorations.) All in all, unlocking the decorations is fun and motivating, but the games themselves are fun enough on their own to get you off the couch. For instance, “Freeze Dance” gives you points when you groove to the beat and successfully hold still when the music stops, and Robot-o-Box lets you earn coins as you raise your arm to spar with a robot. Contrast that to a smartwatch that simply buzzes when you reach a set step total, and it really doesn’t compare. 

Also important for your health, the watch can encourage you to take a deep breath. While it won’t monitor your oxygen levels like Dad’s Amazfit Bip U Pro, it promotes slow and steady breathing by having wearers mimic Tobi. 

Well, shoot

Like many of the best smartwatches for kids options, the Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch can shoot videos and photos. The watch can store up to 3,000 photos and up to 30 minutes of video. It all looks grainy compared to what you’d shoot on a phone, but it’s more than functional for an elementary school-aged kid. Plus, you can spruce up photos with digital borders and stickers, like an outer space frame and an ice cream cone sticker. 

Do you see what I see? 

The wireless connection you can establish between two Tobi 2 watches only works if the devices are nearby. I was provided two watches to test these features out but when I brought one watch out to the backyard and left the other in the front of the house, the two devices couldn’t communicate. When close enough, however, there were lots of things they could do. I could beam photos, videos, voice memos (via an onboard microphone), and emoji—which Little Tikes bills as messages—directly to my daughter’s watch. We could also play a couple of games, Tic-tac-toe and a basketball game, though these options felt thin, especially when the activity games, like freeze tag, seem like a great fit for two-player or group multiplayer. 

Power up the robot

Little Tikes says the rechargeable LiPo battery can last anywhere from five days to a few hours, depending on usage. By comparison, the VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX can last anywhere from two weeks to a single day, depending on usage. You can check Tobi’s charge on the quick menu view, and a yellow light lets you when it’s time to plug in.  

Tobi 2 Robot smartwatch on wrist
With the Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch, it’s always time for fun. Andrew Waite

So, who should buy the Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch?

If you’re hoping to draw your elementary schooler’s attention away from the TV toward a screen that promotes more engagement and active participation, the Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch can be an effective distraction. Tobi the Robot is certainly a captivating and engaging character, and many of the built-in activities will work your kid’s brain or get your kid to work out in a fun, innovative way. 

​​My honest assessment of this smartwatch for kids is that when children want to play with Tobi the Robot rather than just play the games, parents may want to flee the room after a few minutes. The robot’s clicks and coos and laughter are just too much. But, then again, my daughter is always telling me to “Go away, Daddy,” when I’m trying to brush her hair or put on her shoes. So perhaps with the Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch on her wrist, she won’t have to bother verbally banishing me. And at least when I leave the room I can feel good that the smartwatch asking for her attention seems to have her health and well-being in mind. “CoComelon” on the other hand…

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Black Friday fitness deals: 40+ wearables, cardio machines, and more https://www.popsci.com/gear/black-friday-fitness-deals-2022/ Fri, 25 Nov 2022 11:25:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=490983
Save on smartwatches, home gym equipment and more during Black Friday fitness deals in 2022.

Short on cash but not motivation? No sweat with these great deals on smartwatches, home gym equipment, and more.

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Save on smartwatches, home gym equipment and more during Black Friday fitness deals in 2022.

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Fitness equipment can be an expensive investment if you’re looking for a tricked-out treadmill or the latest smartwatch. Fortunately, some of the best equipment around is steeply discounted for Black Friday. You can save more than $1,000 on a treadmill, or hundreds on a seriously rugged smartwatch. At these prices, this inventory is sure to go fast, so check out a few highlights alongside our curated selection of the best Black Friday fitness deals below and make sure to take advantage of them while you can.

The best Black Friday smartwatch and wearables deals

Garmin fenix 6S Pro, Premium Multisport GPS Watch $339.47 (was $599.99)

If you’ve got a serious skier or a mountain climber on your list, the Garmin fenix 6S Pro is an excellent choice. This rugged smartwatch comes with maps for more than 2,000 ski resorts around the world, plus sophisticated GPS, global satellite tracking, a gyroscope, and barometric altimeter. The watch will also keep tabs on critical health metrics at high altitudes, such as heart rate and oxygen levels. The battery lasts anywhere from 9 to 34 days, and its display is always-on in the sun and comes in stainless steel, titanium, or with a carbon coating that’s as hard as a diamond.

The best Black Friday fitness equipment & home gym deals

Bowflex Treadmill 22 $2,499.00 (was $3,599.00)

Putting in some serious miles on the treadmill is a lot more pleasant when you have something fun to watch. The Bowflex Treadmill 22 lets you stream Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and more from its HD touchscreen. You can also virtually globetrot on 50 routes around the world. A Bluetooth wireless armband and speakers complete the experience. And you can crank up the resistance up to 20 percent or run up to 12 mph.

The best Black Friday fitness accessory deals

Bose Sport Wireless Earbuds $129.00 (was $149.00)

Listening to music or a riveting podcast can help the miles pass by easier—unless you’re constantly fumbling with your headphones. Bose’s Sport Wireless Earbuds solve this problem with three sizes of earbuds for a custom fit. With an IXP4 rating, they’re also water- and sweat-resistant. These earbuds are designed with Bose’s signature high-quality audio and touch controls that make answering calls or adjusting volume a cinch. Plus, these earbuds have a long battery life of up to 5 hours if you’re up for the challenge. 

More of the best Black Friday deals

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Apple Black Friday deals: 30+ iPads, AirPods, MacBooks and more https://www.popsci.com/gear/apple-black-friday-deals-2022/ Fri, 25 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=489946
The Best Apple Deals
Apple hasn't discounted its hardware for Black Friday, but you can get great deals by looking elsewhere. Apple

Deep discounts on AirPods, MacBooks, and iPads (oh my).

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The Best Apple Deals
Apple hasn't discounted its hardware for Black Friday, but you can get great deals by looking elsewhere. Apple

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

If you’re looking for a Black Friday deal on AirPods, MacBooks, an Apple Watch, or an iPad, you’re going not going to find them directly from Apple. The company is offering free Apple Store gift cards when you purchase hardware at its stores, but no discounts. Don’t worry, retailers like Amazon and Best Buy have you covered and have heavily discounted Apple’s latest hardware to their lowest prices of the year. We’ve pulled out some highlights alongside a curated list of the best Apple Black Friday deals.

You can save hundreds of dollars by shopping right now, which is great whether you’re looking for a gift or want to treat yourself. All of the current deals ship well before the holidays, too. It’s important to remember that these deals will only be available while the items are in stock. A lot of Apple gear sells out—especially when it’s available at a great price—so act fast!

The best MacBook & accessories deals

The best Black Friday AirPods & accessories deals

AirPods Pro 2, $199.99 (was $249.99)

The AirPods Pro 2 are Apple’s top-of-the-line earbuds, and they’re down to their lowest price ever during Black Friday. The earbuds have longer battery life, clearer sound, better active noise cancellation, and more sophisticated Spatial Audio (surround sound) performance. These earbuds were only released a couple of months ago, so this Black Friday deal is especially surprising.

The best Black Friday iPad & accessories deals

M1 iPad Pro (12.9-Inch), $799.99 (was $1,099.99)

The 12.9-Inch M1 has a faster chip than most Windows laptops and weighs just over one-and-a-half pounds. This is the ultimate tablet for creative professionals who want to use a tablet to edit high-resolution photos, videos, or multitrack audio recordings in addition to kicking back to stream video and read eBooks. Apple just released a new generation iPad Pro, but the differences are so minor that most people aren’t going to notice, so we recommend snagging this deal while you can.

The best Black Friday Apple Watch & accessories deals

The best Black Friday AirTag & accessories deals

The best HomePod & Apple TV 4K deals

More of the best Black Friday deals

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The best 60 Walmart Black Friday deals https://www.popsci.com/gear/walmart-black-friday-deals/ Wed, 23 Nov 2022 03:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=490324
Walmart Black Friday deals
Stan Horaczek

Get a jump on the savings without having to jump through hoops thanks to early online discounts.

The post The best 60 Walmart Black Friday deals appeared first on Popular Science.

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Walmart Black Friday deals
Stan Horaczek

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Black Friday is here and you can start saving on hundreds of items for your household and your loved ones with Walmart’s Black Friday deals. You can maximize your savings by getting a free 30-day trial to Walmart+ early access. That will get you free delivery from your local Walmart, free shipping, discounts on prescriptions and gas, access to stream more than 40,000 videos from Paramount, and more. We’ve highlighted some standout discounts, then listed dozens more, and we’ll keep updating this guide with new deals through Cyber Monday and beyond.

Black Friday laptop and computer deals

SAMSUNG 34″ Class Flat LED Ultra WQHD Monitor, $229.00 (was $399.99)

If you don’t want to shell out a lot for a monitor but still want an ultra-wide option with a high-quality picture, Samsung’s LED Ultra WQHD monitor is a great pick. At 34 inches across, the screen has a resolution of 3440×1440 pixels that delivers a sharp picture. A  respectable 75Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync technology cut down on tearing and stutter for better gaming. And the VESA-compatible mount works with both HDMI and Display Port.

Black Friday sports & outdoors deals

Hyper E-Ride Electric Bike, $398.00 (was $698.00)

Electric bikes can be pricey, but this option features quality craftsmanship at an affordable price. This eye-catching blue bike comes with an aluminum frame and premium Shimano grip shifter and rear derailleur gear system. It’s got front and rear brakes for extra safety, plus a 36-volt battery that allows for a ride time of about 20 miles—great for commuting or short rides around town.

Black Friday fitness deals

SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, $149.00 (was $349.99)

Do you like the idea of smartwatches but still prefer a more classic-looking timepiece for everyday wear? The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic BT ticks both boxes. It’s got the traditional clock face with hands and stainless steel casing. Yet it will track your vital health metrics, from your oxygen levels to ECG monitoring to sleep tracking,  let you participate in group workouts, and get live coaching. Of course, you can also listen to music, take calls, and text. But hurry, at almost $200 off, this deal won’t last long.

The best Walmart Black Friday deals in 2022

Black Friday TV deals

Black Friday home theater deals

Black Friday audio deals

Black Friday gaming deals

Black Friday home deals

Black Friday kitchen deals

Black Friday deals on tools

More of the best Black Friday deals

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How to make the most of the Apple Watch Ultra’s Action button https://www.popsci.com/diy/apple-watch-action-button/ Tue, 01 Nov 2022 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=483008
close up of the action button on the apple watch ultra
Customize your extra button however you like. Apple

The Apple Watch has a brand new button on the Ultra edition.

The post How to make the most of the Apple Watch Ultra’s Action button appeared first on Popular Science.

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close up of the action button on the apple watch ultra
Customize your extra button however you like. Apple

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Back in September, Apple announced a new addition to the Apple Watch series: The Apple Watch Ultra. This new model is larger and more durable, and its battery life goes on for longer between charges. 

The Apple Watch Ultra is also different from the rest of Apple’s wearables because of its orange Action button, which users will find on the left-hand side of the device and gives quick access to a series of customizable shortcuts.

From a software perspective, the Apple Watch Ultra works the same as the rest of the newer models in the series, as they all run watchOS 9. But the Action button makes it easier to access and activate various features because when you’re out on the trail and in harsh weather conditions, pushing a physical button is simpler than having to look at the screen and tap on icons there.

How to use the Apple Watch Ultra’s Action button

The Action button is customizable, which means it’s up to you to decide what it does, but you’ll have to make your pick from a predetermined selection. Go to the Settings app on the Apple Watch Ultra, choose Action Button, and open the Action menu to see your options.

You can pick from Workout, Stopwatch, Waypoint, Backtrack, Dive, Flashlight, Shortcut, or None (which disables the Action Button completely). These functions all work slightly differently, and you may get more functionalities with subsequent taps. 

[Related: Everything you need to know about the Apple Watch Ultra]

Pick Shortcut, for example, and a press of the Action button will launch one of the Shortcuts on your phone. You can design these automations to adapt specifically to your lifestyle, so that you can turn off all your smart lights and put your phone into Do Not Disturb mode with the push of a button, for example. Go back to the first Action Button screen after selecting Shortcut (via the blue arrow, top left) to choose a specific sequence.

Additional options also appear if you select Workout from the Action menu. Go back to the Action Button screen (via the blue arrow) and tap First Press: You’ll then be able to pick the workout that the Action Button launches, or just have it open the Workout app so you can select something different each time.

In the middle of a workout, you can tap the Action Button again to access different functionalities. How the Action Button works will depend on the specific workout you’re doing (during a run, for example, it will create a new segment) but once you’ve decided on your exercise, the device will walk you through everything you need to know in the Gestures section of the Action Button screen.

Sometimes you’ll get extra features when pressing the Action Button and the Side button at the same time. For example, during any kind of workout, you can press the Action Button and the side button together to pause the workout. Again, you’ll get all of this information in the Gestures section on-screen.

Other Action Button functions are simpler. With Dive, for example, you just press the button to start a diving session, or when you select Waypoint, a press will drop a compass waypoint at your current location. Apple is also letting third-party apps add their own shortcut options for the Action Button. It will take some time for developers to create them, but depending on the apps installed on your wearable and your phone, you might start seeing more functionalities on the list besides the built-in ones. 

There’s one more way in which you can use the Action Button: Press and hold it to bring up the emergency menu, which includes Siren, Medical ID, Compass Backtrack, and Emergency Call. If you hold the button for another five seconds, you’ll automatically activate the Siren, a continuous high-pitched sound someone can hear up to 600 feet away.

[Related: Apple Watch comparison: Which one is right for you?]

The siren will keep ringing until you turn it off again via the large red stop button in the Siren app, or until your Apple Watch Ultra runs out of battery. If you’re sure that you never want to trigger this feature automatically, from the Settings app on your Apple Watch Ultra choose Action Button and then deactivate Hold to Turn On under the Siren heading.

If you prefer to configure these Action Button shortcuts through the Watch app on your iPhone, you’ll see an Action Button heading on the My Watch tab in the app: Tap on it to get to all the same functions we’ve already covered, including the Action menu, the First Press menu, and the Gestures section that tells you what subsequent button presses do in your selected mode.

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Apple deals for Amazon Prime Early Access: AirPods, iPads, and Watch https://www.popsci.com/gear/amazon-prime-early-access-apple-deals/ Tue, 11 Oct 2022 11:20:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=476326
Best Apple deals for Amazon Prime Early Access
Get great deals on AirPods, iPads, MacBooks and more. Stan Horaczek

Save on some of Apple's most popular products during the Prime Early Access sale.

The post Apple deals for Amazon Prime Early Access: AirPods, iPads, and Watch appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best Apple deals for Amazon Prime Early Access
Get great deals on AirPods, iPads, MacBooks and more. Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Apple just announced the second generation of its AirPods Pro noise-canceling headphones and they’re already getting a discount during Amazon’s Early Access sale. Right now, you can pay $225 instead of the regular $250. It’s not a huge discount, but it’s enough to buy a pizza that you can eat in peace thanks to the very excellent active noise cancellation. The Apple deals go beyond AirPods, however, so keep scrolling!

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Earbuds with MagSafe Charging Case $223 (was $249)

Apple

SEE IT

Apple Watch Series 8 $349 (was $399)

Apple

SEE IT

The latest Apple Watch is currently $50 off in either of its sizes. The 41mm Watch checks in a $349, which is the lowest we have seen it since its recent release. The 45mm version is currently $379, which is a solid deal if you have a wrist large enough to support all that screen. While buying the new model gets you access to specific features like crash detection, it also guarantees that you’ll get the maximum number of new software updates, which allows you to keep your current device longer.

2022 Apple iPad Air (10.9-inch, Wi-Fi, 64GB, 5th Generation) $519 (was $599)

Apple

SEE IT

If you’re looking for an iPad, Amazon’s Prime Early Access also has discounts on just about every model you can think of. I generally recommend the iPad Air as the best iPad for most people. It’s a solid mix of power, size, and price. It lacks Face ID, but rather uses Touch ID with a sensor on the power button to automatically log you in as you open the tablet. It’s powerful enough to run any app you can throw at it without the high price that comes with the iPad Pro.

More Apple deals for Amazon Prime Early Access:

More Amazon Prime Early Access deals:

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Ready, set, go get a great deal on Apple, Samsung, Fossil smartwatch during the Amazon Prime Early Access sale https://www.popsci.com/gear/amazon-prime-early-access-smartwatch-deals/ Tue, 11 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=476101
Take advantage of great deals on smartwatches during the Amazon Prime Early Access Sale.

With options for the whole family.

The post Ready, set, go get a great deal on Apple, Samsung, Fossil smartwatch during the Amazon Prime Early Access sale appeared first on Popular Science.

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Take advantage of great deals on smartwatches during the Amazon Prime Early Access Sale.

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If you have yet to invest in a smartwatch, they offer a range of tools—all from your wrist. They range from sophisticated satellite tracking systems to real-time information on the health of your heat and lungs, to the ability to answer calls, texts, and get the news and weather in real time.

Fortunately, you can save hundreds on smartwatches as part of Amazon’s Prime Early Access Sale. But today’s the last day of the shopping event, don’t wait on these deals. From the recently released Apple Watch Series 8 to tried-and-tried models, there are plenty of options for everyone in your family.

Apple Watch Series 8 $349 (was $399)

Apple

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If you have been eyeing the new Apple Watch Series 8, you can currently save $50 off the regular price for both the 41mm and 45mm versions in white or black. This is the first big discount we have seen on this new model and these typically sell out quickly so don’t hesitate if you’re looking to get one. The 41mm model will cost you $349 and the larger 45mm version checks in at $379.

SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 4 Classic 42mm Smartwatch $269.99 (was $399.99)

Smartwatches generally track health metrics like heart rate, but if you’re one of those people who can’t get enough of the data and want to drill down into your metabolic health in real time, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is for you. In addition to your body mass index, this watch can measure your basal metabolic rate, and skeletal muscle, track your sleep, and monitor your heart for irregularities. You can also participate in group challenges in a variety of sports and use Google Pay and Maps right from your wrist.

Fossil Women’s Gen 5E 42mm Stainless Steel Touchscreen Smartwatch $169 (was $249)

If you’d prefer a smartwatch that resembles a traditional timepiece and will still track your steps every day, the Fossil Women’s Gen 5E Smartwatch is a solid choice. Made of stainless steel, the watch is customizable with thousands of different faces. Answer texts and calls, ask Alexa about the news and weather, and track your heart rate and other important health metrics all in one device. On sale as part of Amazon Prime Early Access Sale Smartwatch deals, this watch also charges fairly quickly, reaching 80 percent within 50 minutes.

More Amazon Prime Early Access Sale smartwatch deals:

Fitness tracker deals:

More Amazon Prime Early Access deals:

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Finish strong and save $220 on the Garmin Forerunner 735XT during Prime Early Access https://www.popsci.com/gear/amazon-prime-early-access-deal-garmin-forerunner-735xt/ Tue, 11 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=476254
Save more than $100 on the Garmin Forerunner 735XT during the Amazon Prime Early Access Sale.

Save more than $100 with this discount for a limited time.

The post Finish strong and save $220 on the Garmin Forerunner 735XT during Prime Early Access appeared first on Popular Science.

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Save more than $100 on the Garmin Forerunner 735XT during the Amazon Prime Early Access Sale.

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You probably won’t pull an Eliud Kipchoge and shatter your own world record in your next race. But that doesn’t mean you can’t aim for your best time ever by tracking your performance and health metrics over time. And today is the final day to take advantage of the Amazon Prime Early Access Sale Garmin Forerunner 735XT deal.

You’ll need to be an Amazon Prime member to enjoy all the savings of the virtual shopping event, but it’s easy to sign up for a free, 30-day trial. Start off your holiday shopping with discounts on smartwatches for the whole family.

Garmin Forerunner 735XT, Multisport GPS Running Watch With Heart Rate $129.99 (was $349.99)

Designed for running, cycling, and swimming, the Forerunner 735XT can help you drill down into metrics like stride length and vertical ratio to help you optimize your performance. It’s also compatible with tools that can provide an estimate of your VO2 max and lactate threshold, make race predictions, and help you recover. The Forerunner 735XT also comes with up to 14 hours of battery life in GPS mode, great for endurance runs. And you can get a hefty discount during the Amazon Prime Early Access Sale Garmin Forerunner 735XT deal.

More smartwatch deals:

Fitness tracker deals:

More Amazon Prime Early Access deals:

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How to make your Apple Watch battery last longer https://www.popsci.com/diy/apple-watch-battery-life/ Fri, 07 Oct 2022 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=475589
wrist wearing apple watch
Get your Apple Watch running for longer. Sabina / Unsplash

Give your wearable a long lasting life.

The post How to make your Apple Watch battery last longer appeared first on Popular Science.

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wrist wearing apple watch
Get your Apple Watch running for longer. Sabina / Unsplash

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Like its predecessor, the Apple Watch 8 reportedly offers around 18 hours between charges, which means that if you’re a power user, you might have find an outlet before the day is out.

The newly released Apple Watch Ultra does twice as good, with 36-hour battery life, according to the manufacturer. But the gadget is designed for the great outdoors, so if you’re away from civilization for several days, you might still struggle to keep your watch powered up for the duration of your trip.

But whatever model you have, there are multiple ways you can extend the time between charges for your Apple Watch. Put some of these into action and you’ll find the smartwatch still has juice left when you need it the most.

Low power mode

A new feature added with watchOS 9, low power mode works in the same way as the lower power mode available for iPhones and iPads. It disables certain features to conserve energy, like the always on display, heart rate notifications, background heart rate and blood oxygen measurements, and workout reminders.

[Related: 4 tips to make your phone battery last longer]

In this mode, the Apple Watch will also turn off  Wi-Fi and cellular connections when there’s no iPhone nearby, as well as block incoming calls and notifications. As a result, Apple says making phone calls may take longer, background apps will refresh more sporadically, and complications (the widgets on your watch face) will update less frequently. In addition, Siri might be slower, and you’ll notice animations and scrolling can look less smooth.

To enable low power mode, touch and hold the bottom of the Apple Watch screen to bring up the Control Center, then swipe up. Tap the battery percentage icon and turn on the Low Power Mode toggle switch. You can also enable it from Settings on the watch, by tapping Battery. Whenever you turn it on, you can also choose to turn the mode on indefinitely, or for one, two, or three days. You’ll see a yellow circle appear at the top of the screen when low power mode is on.

Another option is to have low power mode enabled every time you start a workout. From the Settings app on the smartwatch, scroll down to the Workout option, then turn on the Low Power Mode toggle switch. And don’t worry: your device will still measure key metrics such as heart rate and pace.

Making manual tweaks

If low power mode is too much (or not enough) for you, you can use some manual tweaks to the settings on your Apple Watch, instead. For example, you can turn the always on display off yourself: From the Settings app on the watch, tap Display & Brightness, then turn off Always On. From the menu you can dim the screen via the slider, saving even more power.

Other ways of reducing the power draw of the display are to switch to a darker watch face and limit the number of complications you use. That doesn’t only mean there will be fewer pixels firing up, but also that the wearable will have less information to update in the background. Tap and hold on the current watch face to change it.

Disabling the wake on wrist raise feature can help with battery life, too. That way you’ll prevent the face from lighting up when you, say, scratch your ear, and will only do so when you actually need it. This feature is on the same Display & Brightness screen in Settings on the watch—just turn off the Wake on Wrist Raise option.

Stopping your Apple Watch from having to listen out for your “hey Siri” all the time can also ease some of the pressure on the battery. Head to Settings on your smartwatch, select Siri, and disable the Listen for “Hey Siri” option. You can also disable Raise to Speak to save more battery life.

Managing your apps

The way that you use your Apple Watch affects battery life, too. If you really want to maximize the time between charges, keep calls from your wrist and audio streaming to the watch down to a minimum, and don’t use the gadget for demanding tasks such as turn-by-turn navigation. The walkie-talkie feature is another one to avoid to save battery life, as it uses the speaker and microphone.

Cutting down on the number of notifications coming through to your phone can help as well. This reduces the number of background checks the watch has to do and how often it has to beep and vibrate. From the Watch app on your iPhone, tap Notifications—start by turning off alerts for any apps that you don’t absolutely have to hear from.

[Related: Make your laptop battery last all day]

You could also use a trick from managing battery life on smartphones, which is to enable Do Not Disturb on your watch for a while. This blocks all notifications, stops your watch from running constant checks for them and cuts down on the buzzes and pings your device has to power. Touch and hold the bottom of the Apple Watch screen, then when the Control Center appears, swipe up and tap Do Not Disturb.

Also on the subject of apps, you can tell your Apple Watch not to refresh them in the background—so they’ll only update when they’re actually open. From the Watch app on your iPhone, tap General: You can either turn off the Background App Refresh option completely or disable it for individual apps using the toggle switches.

The post How to make your Apple Watch battery last longer appeared first on Popular Science.

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Amazon’s massive sale offers up to 60 percent off Casio and Timex watches https://www.popsci.com/gear/amazon-timex-watch-deal/ Fri, 23 Sep 2022 16:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=472266
Timex watch deal Amazon
There's a deal to fit any style. Stan Horaczek

Save more than $250 on some classic watches that will work with almost any look.

The post Amazon’s massive sale offers up to 60 percent off Casio and Timex watches appeared first on Popular Science.

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Timex watch deal Amazon
There's a deal to fit any style. Stan Horaczek

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This week, reviews started rolling out for Apple’s impressive Apple Watch Ultra. It’s an impressive piece of gear, but it’s also $800 and overkill for most people who don’t plan to spend their weekend fighting off bears or diving to the bottom of the sea to look for pirate jewels. For the rest of us, a regular watch works just fine for telling time and looking good. Amazon’s current watch sale offers up to 60 percent off understated and reliable timepieces from Timex, Casio, and Seiko. 

Seiko

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I’m personally a huge fan of the Seiko Mechanical Automatic watch, which is down to $219 from $550. It has a substantial 39.9mm case that matches its stainless steel band. It has a super-precise mechanical movement and the case is water resistant down to 100 meters, which is a lot more water resistant than your human body. 

Citizen

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If you’re looking for something a little more tactical, the Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Nighthawk (currently $211 down from $395) offers a 42mm case with more complications than a simple fashion watch. You get dual-times, as well as the date and even some pilot-specific features. It still looks like a classic chronograph, but it’s more advanced than its purely style-oriented companions. 

Timex

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The Timex Expedition is currently $65, which is roughly 20 percent down from its normal price. It borrows its design from classic military watches and offers chronograph functionality, which means it keeps time to 1/20th of a second. It’s water-resistant to 100 meters and the indiglo backlight makes it easy to see in the dark. It looks way more expensive than it is. 

Here are more of Amazon’s standout watch deals from its current sale. There’s something for just about every wrist. 

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Celebrate Garmin’s birthday with up to $400 in savings https://www.popsci.com/gear/garmin-birthday-gps-sale/ Thu, 15 Sep 2022 18:25:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=470103
A lineup of garmin watches and other products on a blue and green gradient background
Amanda Reed

If you've been watch-ing for big savings, take part in Garmin's party with discounts on smartwatches, as well as GPS devices, fitness trackers, and more.

The post Celebrate Garmin’s birthday with up to $400 in savings appeared first on Popular Science.

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A lineup of garmin watches and other products on a blue and green gradient background
Amanda Reed

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Garmin turns 32 this year. Since you can’t buy a company a gift, treat yourself to a new watch with Garmin’s birthday sale—we’re partial to the fēnix 6S, which is up to $250 off, depending on the model you choose.

Garmin

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We’ve featured Garmin watches many times in our coverage, from our Instinct 2 Solar review to naming the Vivomove HR as the best hybrid smartwatch with heart rate monitor. The fēnix 6S lets you combine mapping, music, and pace planning on your workouts so you can make the most of your marathon prep. It features a built-in heart sensor and pulse oximeter, and plenty of built-in programs for practically every sport. The 42mm and 47mm standard watch is on sale for $449.99, $200 off its $649.99 retail price. The Sapphire model, equipped with scratch-free Sapphire sapphire glass, is $549.99, $200 of its $749.99 retail price. The Solar model with built-in solar charging, is $599.99, $200 off its $799.99 retail price. The 51mm case of the standard, Sapphire, and Solar models are on sale for $549.99, $599.99, and $699.99, respectively.

Take advantage of Garmin’s birthday sale fast—it ends Sept. 18, since no party can last forever. Here’s what else is on sale as part of the festivities:

The post Celebrate Garmin’s birthday with up to $400 in savings appeared first on Popular Science.

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Apple Watch Series 8 review: Laying the groundwork https://www.popsci.com/gear/apple-watch-series-8-review/ Thu, 15 Sep 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=469373
Apple Watch Series 8 Review
The Apple Watch Series 8 looks just like the Series 7, but has some interesting new features. Mike Epstein

Car crash detection and ovulation tracking define the subtly impressive new Apple Watch.

The post Apple Watch Series 8 review: Laying the groundwork appeared first on Popular Science.

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Apple Watch Series 8 Review
The Apple Watch Series 8 looks just like the Series 7, but has some interesting new features. Mike Epstein

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It may be hard for some of us to see the virtue of the Apple Watch Series 8. Some people will not be able to tell the difference between it and last year’s Apple Watch Series 7, no matter how long they wear it. At a glance, it offers the same day-to-day functionality, with a few key boosts. A couple of these, like a “low power mode,” are hardware-specific, but most of what you’ll see and appreciate comes from the new version of Apple’s watchOS 9 and will be available on older watches as well. 

And, yet, it would not be right or fair to say that the Series 8 fails to make large evolutionary strides. The Apple Watch Series 8 shows its true colors at the most important times, before birth and death. First, a new pair of temperature sensors allows the Series 8 to chart estimated ovulation cycles, helping people attempting to get pregnant. Second, a new motion sensor, in conjunction with existing components, enables the ability to detect car crashes and automatically call 911 and your emergency contacts. 

While you may not feel its changes every day, the Series 8 offers two niche functions that should make a big difference for people at very specific, important times in their lives. That doesn’t necessarily make for a compelling new upgrade when compared to the past couple of watch models, but it’s a huge “building” year that advances the case for the Apple Watch as a product for years to come.

Mike Epstein

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What’s new about the Apple Watch Series 8?

In its eighth iteration, the Apple Watch Series 8 doesn’t introduce many noticeable design changes. The larger 41mm and 45mm case sizes of the Apple Watch Series 7 return, offering the same excellent visibility, whether you’re engaging with the watch or merely glancing at a notification on its always-on display. I can confirm that all of the Apple Watch’s core competencies—tracking your heart, monitoring your sleep, showing notifications from your phone, and so on—all work just as well as last year … which is to say very well. As with past models, it’s backward-compatible with all previous Apple Watch bands (though Apple has some new styles they’d love to sell you, of course).

There are a handful of improvements and tweaks to those core competencies, along with some honest-to-god new features, but virtually all of them are enabled by watchOS 9, the newest version of the Apple Watch’s operating system, which is compatible with the Apple Watch Series 4 and up. I’ll talk about the details of some of those changes more in a bit but the important thing to note here is that the Apple Watch Series 3, a very popular model that was on sale for a long time, will no longer receive updates. That leaves the Apple Watch SE 2 as the most affordable model in the line. 

The Series 8 offers the same battery life as the Series 7, up to 18 hours on a single charge, but there’s a new wrinkle this time around. The Series 8 adds a low-power mode, which can keep the battery running for up to 36 hours on a full charge. Entering low-power mode disables some of the watch’s passive functions, such as the always-on display, automatic workout detection, and heart health notifications. As in the Series 7, the battery offers about enough energy to get you through a day and track your sleeping overnight but with very little wiggle room for charging afterward. Low-power mode can be that wiggle room if you can’t find a good time to take the watch off for a while.

Crash detection

Though I hope neither you nor I ever need it, Apple Watch’s crash detection feature is very impressive.  It uses the watch’s many sensors together to confirm a very serious situation very quickly. It’s exclusive to the new line of Apple Watches—Series 8, SE 2, and Ultra—because it requires a new, more powerful gyroscope and accelerometer, which can detect the high force of an impact and distinguish between a car stopping suddenly under control and a crash.

That said, the feature also uses a handful of existing sensors on the Series 8 to confirm a car crash: The microphone should register the sound of the crash. GPS should confirm that you’ve gone from moving at high speed to a complete stop. Our personal favorite is that the barometer should detect a change in pressure caused by the release of an airbag. All of these sensors work quickly in tandem to register the kind of car crash that might leave a person stunned or knocked out and unable to call for help.

When the Series 8 detects a crash, it should raise a screen that lets you know it’s going to call emergency services, giving you 10 seconds to cancel the call. If you don’t, it promises to send your GPS data to EMS, as well as any emergency contacts you’ve specified. It’s a very smart, streamlined process that seems very capable of calling for help faster than the average person would be able to on their own.

Apple Watch Series 8 Review
This year’s bands include this redesigned version of the Nike Sport Loop. Mike Epstein

I say “can” and “should” because I haven’t actually tested this feature, nor have I tested the ovulation tracking, which we’ll discuss in a minute. Based on Apple’s track record, we’re taking it on faith that these features work as intended—we simply do not have the facilities to test crash detection. (That said, we’ve seen that the predecessor to this feature, Apple Watch fall detection, works very well.) For ovulation tracking, it would take a few months of nightly use to test effectively—and a different reviewer, of course, but that we could’ve handled.

Skin temperature sensors

Apple Watch Series 8 also adds a two-sensor approach to temperature measurement, which enables a new ovulation tracking feature. One sensor, on the back crystal, reads your skin temperature. The second, under the display, reads air temperature. Like an active noise-canceling microphone array, the two sensors work together to get a precise read on your average temperature and note any substantial changes. It isn’t capable, however, of “taking your temperature,” as you would with a thermometer—the Series 8 specifically warns you not to use it to see if you have a fever.

How do we get from “takes your temperature” to charting your ovulation cycle? If you wear the Series 8 to bed every night, allowing the watch to regularly record your temperature, it can map out night-to-night (and, by extension, day-to-day) changes in your body temperature. For ovulation, specifically, measuring temperature changes and heart rate will allow the watch to retroactively map a user’s biphasic shift, indicating when they were most likely ovulating.

It’s worth noting that there are already other devices out there with this functionality. Some, like the Ava fertility tracker, have been doing it for some time. The latest Oura smart ring can track your skin temperature, though it doesn’t have dedicated ovulation-tracking support. That said, having it in a device like the Apple Watch, which we’d recommend for a wide array of uses before and after conception, beats spending $200-$300 on another wearable specifically because it has a temperature sensor.

And watchOS 9 makes some great improvements, too …

For those of you who either pre-ordered a new Apple Watch or plan to buy one in the near future, most of the changes you’ll notice will come from the jump to the Apple Watch’s new operating system, watchOS 9. As with every annual OS update, there are a ton of changes, big and small. Here are a few of this year’s highlights.

Afib history

Building on the existing heart rate tracking, Apple Watches with watchOS 9 can record data on Atrial Fibrillation, or a rapid irregular heartbeat, for those who have been diagnosed with the condition by a doctor. On the Health app, you’ll be able to review how often your heartbeat’s out of sync. The app can also provide information that can help you manage the condition.

Enhanced running metrics and Workout views

Apple Watch Series 8 Review
WatchOS 9’s new heart rate zones view puts your workout data in context. (My end table really needs to get to the gym.) Mike Epstein

The Workout app received a nice upgrade in watchOS 9, offering more data views and customization. During a high-impact workout, the Series 8 creates heart rate zones to help you gauge how hard you’re pushing yourself. You can also set multi-phase workouts on timers, so you know when to pick up the pace or slow down before the end of a workout.

Runners, in particular, will benefit from enhanced tracking that measures stride length, ground contact time, and vertical oscillation, or how much you bounce when you run. If you’re an outdoor runner, the Apple Watch will automatically detect when you arrive at a track and prepare for a workout. Even if you aren’t at a track, “Outdoor Run” and “Outdoor Cycle” workouts are set to gain a feature that lets you record your route so you can track your time on a specific run or biking workout time after time.

New Compass app and “Backtrack”

Though Apple has primarily linked it to the Apple Watch Ultra in its marketing, the Series 8 will also get the reimagined Compass app, which gives you the ability to drop GPS waypoints for locations like your home or car, so you can always reorient yourself to find them.

WatchOS 9 also enables a feature that uses GPS to help you retrace your path if you ever get lost. Since it’s GPS-based, “Backtrack” works even if your phone and watch can’t connect to a cellular network, making it very useful for campers and anyone else who finds themselves “off-grid.”

Medications app

There’s an entirely new app, Medications, designed to remind you when to take your pills. Going beyond a simple reminder, the app keeps a list of every medication you take, tells you exactly when to take it, and can cross-check for possible drug interactions when you start on something new (based on U.S. pharmaceutical information).

So, who should buy the Apple Watch Series 8?

Apple Watch Series 8 Review
With the new Compass app, you can retrace your steps using GPS. Mike Epstein

As with a lot of Apple’s products, the general question—“Should I buy an Apple Watch or not?”—remains the same as before the Series 8 launched. The Apple Watch is, overall, the best lifestyle smartwatch you can buy. There are more intense fitness trackers, and dedicated sport watches for hikers and athletes, but the Apple Watch remains the indisputable champ for everyday life. (Of course, that is contingent on you already owning an iPhone.)

Despite the fact that many Apple Watch buyers are still hopping on the train for the first time, the real question becomes, “Should I upgrade to the Apple Watch Series 8 from whatever I have?” This will vary from person to person based on how they use the watch, so my best answer is that you should opt for the Series 8 if you decide to upgrade. The features it adds—particularly the car crash detection—are compelling background functions that are worth spending a little extra for if you’re already in the market for a new smartwatch. I don’t know that it’s enough to warrant running out and buying one, particularly if you just bought in, but it’s enough to endorse the idea that the Apple Watch, as an ongoing concern, continues to move forward.

The post Apple Watch Series 8 review: Laying the groundwork appeared first on Popular Science.

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You can save up to $150 on the Apple Watch Series 7 right now on Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/amazon-apple-tech-sale/ Mon, 12 Sep 2022 17:15:01 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=469101
A lineup of previous generation Apple products on a green and blue gradient background
Amanda Reed

A new generation of Apple products means you can save big on last year's Watch and AirPods Pro today.

The post You can save up to $150 on the Apple Watch Series 7 right now on Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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A lineup of previous generation Apple products on a green and blue gradient background
Amanda Reed

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Apple announced its latest generation of iPhone, Watch, and more Sept. 7. This means big savings on previous-generation products, like this Series 7 Watch, down $150 from its $799 retail price.

Apple

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This model features a silver stainless steel case with a silver Milanese loop wristband, GPS, and cellular capabilities. You can track your fitness goals, follow your blood oxygen levels, monitor your sleep, and take an ECG—just like the Series 8. It also includes safety measures like fall detection, irregular heartbeat notifications, and Emergency SOS call selection. There’s a reason Apple highlighted the Watch’s lifesaving capabilities at the beginning of its keynote event last week—a legacy the Watch Series 7 helped start and revolutionize.

If you’re using the watch to leave your phone at home during a workout, the Series 7 is swim-proof. And no workout is complete without a soundtrack, which means some reliable earbuds. Luckily, you can snag the first generation of AirPods Pro for $179.99, down from its $249 retail price. AirPods Pro earbuds have active noise cancellation, spatial audio, and three sizes of soft, tapered silicone tips for a customizable fit and immersive, energetic response. They’re IPX4 rated, meaning sweat- and water-resistant, so you can do cardio without destroying your headphones and connect easily to music saved to your watch so you can spend less time fiddling with your settings and more time demolishing personal records in the weight room.

If you want to upgrade from the second generation of AirPods, you can preorder the AirPods Pro 2 (which will be released Sept. 23). If you’re a serious athlete looking to upgrade to a more durable Apple Watch, the new Apple Watch Ultra—with ruggedized features, a bigger, brighter display, improved GPS, and up to 36 hours of battery life—is also available to preorder.

Check out these other Apple deals on Amazon for big savings on iPad, MacBook Pro, and Apple TV 4K:

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Apple introduces iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Pro, Apple Watch Ultra, and more https://www.popsci.com/gear/apple-iphone-14-far-out-news/ Wed, 07 Sep 2022 23:15:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=468422
iPhone 14 News
Apple

iPhones, and Watches, and AirPods, oh my!

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iPhone 14 News
Apple

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Apple’s end-of-summer events generally bring exciting announcements and this year’s “Far Out” presentation was filled with exciting new gear, including four new iPhone 14 devices, three new Apple Watches, and an updated take on the AirPods Pro. That includes an all-new version of the phone, the iPhone 14 Plus, which offers standard iPhone performance in a 6.7-inch “Pro Max” form factor, and the Apple Watch Ultra, a rugged and powerful flagship sport watch. We’ll walk through all the gadgets Apple announced Sept. 7 and let you know what’s new and exciting about Apple’s next wave of tech.

iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus

iPhone 14 News
The Apple iPhone 14 line features four phones, including the iPhone 14 (left) new iPhone 14 Plus (right). Apple

If you’re not interested in Apple’s more expensive iPhone Pro lineup, the company also introduced the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus, the latter of which is a new addition. These devices offer an excellent suite of features but are available at a more comfortable price for most people. The iPhone 14 and 14 Plus come with the same A15 Bionic chipset that was in the iPhone 13 and will be available for $799 and $899, respectively. Pre-orders begin Sept. 9. The 6.1-inch iPhone 14 will be available in stores Sept. 16 and the 6.7-inch Plus arrives Oct. 7.

Like last year’s iPhone 13, the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus features a dual-camera setup. The primary camera features a 12MP sensor and f/1.5 aperture with sensor-base stabilization. Apple claims the new camera system offers a 49 percent improvement in low-light performance over the prior model thanks to a “Photonic Engine,” so users should enjoy excellent pictures at night. There’s also a new 12MP front-facing TrueDepth camera with autofocus features, so, theoretically, you won’t encounter any out-of-focus selfies. The iPhone 14 also supports improved video stabilization features, including an “Action mode” for smooth-looking video with fewer shakes and vibrations.

While the outward appearance is unchanged, both devices feature an updated internal design for better thermal performance. This will allow users to watch movies and play games for longer. Speaking of marathon Netflix sessions, Apple said the iPhone 14 Plus model offers the best battery life of any iPhone in its lineup. If you’re the type of person who is frequently away from an outlet, the 14 Plus could be very appealing. The iPhone 14 and 14 Plus also support the new Crash Detection feature, which utilizes a new dual-core accelerometer to detect if you’ve been in a severe car crash. They also support Emergency SOS via Satellite, allowing users to connect to emergency services even when off the grid.

iPhone 4 Pro and 14 Pro Max

iPhone 14 News
The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max are Apple’s new flagships. Apple

The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max bring a conventional suite of upgrades, including improved performance, a more advanced camera system, and better battery life. What you’ll notice, though, is that the display now features a pill-shaped cutout for the selfie camera, rather than the infamous top-center notch, and the introduction of an always-on display, so you can quickly check the time and notifications without any tapping. Apple said the iPhone 14 Pro would start at $999 and the Pro Max starts at $1,099. They’ll be available to pre-order Sept. 9 and in stores Sept. 16.

The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max will offer 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR displays, sizes unchanged from last year. Apple is cleverly embracing the new pill-shaped cutout with a feature known as “Dynamic Island.” Notifications, apps, and alerts will adapt and move around the pill-shaped cutout, so the pill feels like it’s a part of the screen … aesthetically, at least.

Like the Apple Watch Series 6 and newer, the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max display technology supports a 1Hz refresh rate, enabling the new always-on display feature. The always-on display will work with the lock screen widgets introduced with iOS 16, so users can quickly glance at information like calendar events, weather, and reminders without waking up the iPhone 14 Pro’s display. When the display does wake up, users can enjoy 120Hz ProMotion technology and a peak HDR brightness of 1600 nits, or 2000 nits outdoors.

On the inside, Apple’s new A16 Bionic chip improves the phone’s power efficiency, display performance, and the upgraded triple-camera system. It features a six-core CPU with two high-performance and four-efficiency cores, allowing photographers to capture 48MP images in ProRAW, which allows for greater editing possibilities. 

For most photos, however, the new quad-pixel sensor will capture 12MP pictures through a process called “pixel binning,” which lets Apple maximize detail and light capture. The flash can also adapt to the camera system’s different focal lengths. On the video side, Apple said its Cinematic Mode supports 4K at 30 frames per second (fps) and 4K at 24 fps. It also offers new stabilization features that make the footage look as though you were using a gimbal.

Other features available in the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max include Crash Detection, which can assist when it detects you were in a crash, and Emergency SOS via Satellite, so you can communicate when out of the range of carrier coverage. While the design of the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max isn’t a significant departure from what we’ve seen these last few years, the new pill-shaped cutout, always-on display, and improved camera system may prompt plenty of upgrades.

Apple Watch Series 8, Apple Watch SE, and Apple Watch Ultra

iPhone 14 News
Apple announced three new watches, including the Apple Watch Series 8 and a revised Apple Watch SE. Apple

Apple announced a whole wave of Apple Watches, including a new standard model, the Apple Watch Series 8; a redesigned version of its budget watch, Apple Watch SE; and an all-new high-end sport watch aimed at athletes and adventurers, the Apple Watch Ultra.

The Apple Watch Series 8 features a largely unchanged design but includes new sensors that will enable new health and safety features. First, a pair of sensors measuring skin temperature will allow for improved menstrual cycle tracking and automated retrospective ovulation estimates, which can be helpful for family planning. In watchOS 9, the Cycle Tracking features will alert users to any deviations, such as irregular, infrequent, or prolonged periods.

The Series 8 also supports Apple’s new Crash Detection feature. If you’re involved in a severe car crash, your device will check in with you and dial emergency services if you’re unresponsive. The Series 8 also supports a Low Power Mode, offering users up to 36 hours of battery life. This new mode will temporarily disable or limit select sensors and features, such as the always-on display and workout autostart.

The Apple Watch Series 8 will be available for $399 for the GPS model and $499 for the cellular model. You can pre-order the Series 8 today and it will launch in stores Sept. 16. The Apple Watch SE, which features the same dual-core processor found in the Series 8 but lacks the more advanced features like the always-on display, starts at $249 and can also be pre-ordered today and will launch Sept. 16.

Apple Watch Ultra
The Apple Watch Ultra is a bigger, more durable smartwatch for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes. Apple

The Apple Watch Ultra, an all-new design, is built for intense fitness training and outdoor activities like climbing, hiking, and scuba diving. The more rugged model features an extra-large 49mm titanium case, a redesigned Digital Crown, and an “Action button,” which you can customize for various activities. The Watch Ultra’s display features sapphire crystal for durability and supports 2000 nits of brightness when outdoors. Notably, the Watch Ultra’s buttons have been designed to work with users who wear gloves.

The Watch Ultra has all the features of the Series 8 but also includes three built-in microphones and is twice as water resistant as other Apple Watch models. The more rugged wearable comes standard with cellular capabilities and can get up to 36 hours on a single charge—enough for any extreme athletes participating in grueling endurance sports. It also features an extended battery life of 60 hours when using Apple’s new Low Power Mode (which will be enabled in a software update later in the fall).

The Watch Ultra also supports L1 and L5 GPS frequencies, ensuring your coordinates are as precise as possible. This is necessary for a new trackback feature to help users retrace their steps if they get lost on a hiking trip. If you get lost and need assistance, the Watch Ultra has an 86-decibel siren so others nearby can better locate you. If you’re into water sports, the Watch Ultra is certified to EN 13319 for scuba divers, with a diving depth of up to 131 feet.

Three new bands are available for the Watch Ultra—Alpine, Trail, and Ocean—and they cater to the different environments they’re named after. The Watch Ultra will be available for $799 when it launches Sept. 23.

AirPods Pro 2

iPhone 14 news
The AirPods Pro 2 feature enhanced active noise-canceling, capacitive controls, and more. Apple

The AirPods Pro 2 sticks with a design introduced by the original model but can cancel twice as much noise. This is thanks to a new H2 chip, which also supports an improved Adaptive Transparency mode that will dynamically reduce heavy noise while walking around a loud city. The latest truly wireless earbuds include a new low-distortion audio driver and a custom amplifier for richer bass and crystal-clear sound.

The AirPods Pro 2 also supports new touch gestures, including the ability to adjust the volume with swipes on the stems. That will reduce the friction when using the earbuds because you will no longer have to take out your phone to turn up your favorite song. The AirPods Pro 2 features six hours of listening time on a single charge, a 33 percent increase over the original AirPods Pro. The charging case, which now has a built-in speaker (for Find My/status purposes) and a new loop on the side for a lanyard, allows for 30 hours of listening time, an increase of six hours.

The AirPods Pro 2 will be available to order for $249 Sept. 9 and launch Sept. 23.

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Everything you need to know about the Apple Watch Ultra https://www.popsci.com/gear/apple-watch-ultra-features/ Wed, 07 Sep 2022 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=468347
Apple Watch Ultra

“Made for exploration, adventure, and endurance.”

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Apple Watch Ultra

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The new high-end Apple Watch is larger and more durable than the standard Apple Watch Series 8, which was also announced at the event, with features made for scuba divers, outdoor adventurers, and endurance athletes like marathon and triathlon runners. Unlike past Apple Watches, which have robust fitness features but are primarily “lifestyle” watches for all kinds of people, the Apple Watch Ultra is a more niche “outdoor” watch for people who want specialized support. And with a much higher price—$799, versus $399 for the GPS-enabled Series 8—it’s the kind of gear that you should learn a little more about before picking one up. We’ll eventually have a full review of the Apple Watch Ultra, but here’s an early look at the advanced tech inside.

Bigger and tougher

Apple Watch Ultra
The Apple Watch Ultra is bigger and more durable than the Apple Watch Series 8. Apple

Apple Watch Ultra is big. While the difference between the 45mm chassis of the Watch Series 8 and the 49mm Watch Ultra may not sound substantial, it should feel positively huge to standard Apple Watch users. Keep in mind: Apple expanded the case size by 1mm with the Watch Series 7, and that made a very noticeable difference. 

It’ll also have a much thicker chassis to incorporate new components, including a larger, louder speaker and a three-microphone array to improve voice clarity when making calls on the watch in less-than-ideal conditions. The Watch Ultra only comes in one hardware configuration, which includes cellular connectivity, so the expectation is that people will want to use the Watch Ultra to make calls at any time.

Presumably, the larger case also allowed Apple to give the Watch Ultra a bigger battery, which it estimates will last up to 36 hours on a single charge, or up to 60 hours with a low-power feature (available later in the fall).

Smartwatches photo
The Apple Watch Ultra has a new “Action” button and a redesigned Digital Crown. Apple

The redesigned watch will also feature some design tweaks for the sake of durability, and usability in extreme conditions. The titanium case extends up to cover the edges of the sapphire crystal display to minimize cracked edges. The Watch Ultra is rated to operate on-wrist at temperatures as low as minus 4 degrees Fahrenheit, or as high as 131 F. It’s also IP6X and MIL-STD-810H certified—a military-grade durability rating used for many “rugged” tech products—indicating it’s prepared for some conditions, including rain, humidity, immersion in sand and dust, freezing, shock, and vibration, among others.

The buttons—yes, plural—are also getting an overhaul. The Digital Crown is larger and features grooved notches to make it easier to manipulate with a gloved hand. There’s also a second input: a large customizable “Action” button, that will allow you to start tracking workouts and perform other functions quickly. For example, triathletes can switch from running to cycling to swimming by simply pressing the button.

Last, but not least, Apple has created three new, activity-specific Apple Watch Ultra bands—the stitch-free hook-clasped Alpine Loop Band, the wetsuit-ready rubber Ocean Band, and the ultralight stretch Trail Loop band.

Built for survival

Apple Watch Ultra
The new compass app allows you to set waypoints to help you find your way back to your camp or car. Apple

The Apple Watch Ultra offers some specialized features, many of which seem designed with safety and survival for hikers and climbers in mind. It uses a more precise “dual-frequency” GPS tracking that allows the watch to maintain tracking when you’re surrounded by tall structures or mountains.

As part of watchOS 9, the Watch Ultra will feature a redesigned version of the compass app that allows you to set waypoints, like your home, your camp, or your car, and allow you to orient yourself in relation to those locations. It will also be able to use a feature called backtrack that can use GPS to create a path retracing your steps in real-time. If you find yourself fully lost or hurt, the larger speaker can now play an ultra-loud 86-decibel siren that sends a distinctive SOS alarm (audible up to 600 feet away).

During the day, the display is brighter, up to 2000 Nits, which should make it easier to see regardless of glare. It also features a night mode, which turns the whole interface red, making it easier to see without interfering with your own night-adjusted vision.

Diver’s delight

The Apple Watch Ultra also seems to be an especially useful tool for divers. It’s waterproof up to 100 meters (WR100) and has an EN13319 depth gauge certification for diving accessories. Using a new depth app, you’ll be able to see your depth, time underwater, and max depth. In conjunction with an upcoming app, Oceanic+, the Watch Ultra will reportedly work as an effective dive computer, letting you plan and share dive routes and providing safety stop guidance.

Plus the best of Apple Watch Series 8 and watchOS 9

In addition to all of its exclusive changes, the Apple Watch Ultra will feature all of the upgrades in the upcoming Apple Watch Series 8. Most notably, that means new motion sensors that can detect if you get in a car crash and automatically call for help. They include a gyroscope and a highly sensitive accelerometer. Even the Watch Ultra’s built-in barometer plays a role in detecting crashes by detecting pressure changes typically associated with airbag deployment. There is also a temperature sensor that improves menstrual cycle tracking and enables ovulation tracking through the Health app (information Apple stressed is encrypted on the watch and only accessible with a user’s passcode/Touch ID/Face ID).

Since the Watch Ultra is a sports watch, it’s also worth noting that watchOS 9 will offer improved tracking for runs, including stride length and vertical oscillation, as well as more advanced workout data views. (These were announced earlier this year, and will be coming to all watchOS 9 compatible watches.)

What does all this mean?

Apple Watch Ultra
Apple will sell three activity-focused bands for the Apple Watch Ultra: The Trail Loop, the Alpine Loop, and the Ocean Band. Apple

Apple Watch Ultra will have a lot of new features that the Apple Watch Series 8 won’t. Some of these features will be helpful for most people, like a bigger battery, brighter screen, and dual-frequency GPS. Many of them, though, are highly specific and are really made for people who are very devoted to intense fitness training and fairly advanced outdoor activities like off-trail hiking, scuba diving, and climbing. Will the Apple Watch Ultra be the best, most feature-rich Apple Watch? Quite possibly, yes. And, at double the price of a GPS-only Series 8, it may be too niche for the average person.

At a glance, the people who should get most excited are iPhone-using fans of multisports smartwatches from brands like Garmin and Suunto. Those brands already make watches with many of these features, but their flagship watches cost even more than the $799 Apple Watch Ultra and don’t offer the same level of connectivity and convenience as an Apple Watch and iPhone working in sync.

The question remains: Is the Apple Watch Ultra worth buying? We will hopefully get our hands on the Apple Watch Ultra in the coming weeks, so we’ll have a full review with our thoughts on whether or not it’s worth that higher price. In the meantime, the Apple Watch Ultra is available on Amazon for $799.

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Apple’s two big new safety features, explained https://www.popsci.com/technology/apple-announces-car-crash-detection-and-emergency-satellite-communication/ Wed, 07 Sep 2022 21:31:36 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=468348
Smartwatches photo
courtesy Apple

Car crash detection and a way to communicate via satellite in an emergency are part of the latest tech out of Cupertino.

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Smartwatches photo
courtesy Apple

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Apple held its annual iPhone extravaganza today, and among the debut of gadgets like the iPhone 14 and the chunky, extreme-sports-focused Apple Watch Ultra are two new services focused on safety. One of them, car crash detection, involves both gadgets, and the other, enabling emergency satellite communication, is iPhone-specific. 

Here’s a look at what to expect from the two new services. 

Car crash detection

Apple has previously rolled out two features tied to its wearable device that detect if you’ve taken a spill: a form of everyday fall-detection (in 2018) and then, last year, a workout-focused version of the same. 

A new service, announced today, aims to notice that you’ve been in a car accident and then call for help. 

Ron Huang, the company’s vice president for sensing and connectivity, said that the feature employs new sensors in the Apple Watch as well as machine learning. While the company’s watches already have gyroscopes and accelerometers in them, Huang said that new versions of these sensors help detect the forces present in a car accident. That new accelerometer, he said, can notice as much as 256 Gs of acceleration, “allowing it to detect the extreme impacts of a crash.” 

For context, one G—that stands for gravity—is what you feel pulling you straight down towards the Earth at any given moment, and fighter pilots endure as much as nine or more Gs while conducting maneuvers in which they bank hard or accelerate quickly. In a car accident, the Gs the watch are detecting likely stem from forces involved in actions like the rapid stop. 

[Related: A new AT&T update could make 911 calls more effective]

Huang also said that the onboard barometer, microphone, and GPS chip help with the detection process as well, and that machine learning helped tie everything together. The barometer is involved to measure pressure-related changes due to an airbag’s deployment, a promotional video during the event explained. 

The company’s latest phones also offer an identical service, said Kaiann Drance, the company’s vice president for iPhone product marketing, meaning that you do not need to buy the newest watch to get car crash detection. 

The announcement comes at a grim time for road safety in the United States, as almost 43,000 people died in car accidents in 2021, an increase of more than 10 percent over the year before. (Pedestrians are an especially vulnerable group.) But of course, difficult problems like national road safety are unlikely to be solved with something like a gadget. 

Satellite communications

The second safety feature the company announced is baked into the new iPhones specifically, and involves giving someone like an injured mountaineer a way to ask for help via satellite when they are out of cell service range. 

Apple is calling the new feature “Emergency SOS via Satellite,” and it works by instructing the lost hiker to point their phone at a far away, quick-moving communications satellite. To make this feature work, engineers had to tackle the bandwidth challenges that come with this form of communication. 

“To connect to these satellites, you need to be outside, with a clear view of the sky,” said Ashley Williams, the company’s manager for satellite modeling and simulation. “And the bandwidth is so limited that even sending a text message is a technical challenge.” (So, no Netflix via sat.) 

[Related: What it’s like to rescue someone at sea from a Coast Guard helicopter]

Other factors that allow this whole system to work are a “custom short text compression algorithm,” Williams said, as well as a specific screen interface for reporting what the problem is, like by hitting the “Lost or Trapped” option. Helping to handle any cries for help will be a ground network that also includes “relay centers staffed with highly trained emergency specialists ready to get your text and call an emergency service provider on your behalf,” she said, which are involved if the emergency center cannot deal with a text message exchange on its own. 

The satellite communication service will not come with any extra cost—for the first two years after you purchase an iPhone 14. After that, the sky’s the limit. The SOS service debuts in November, only in Canada and the United States. 

Watch the entire event, below.

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Trademark filings hint at future ‘Reality’ AR/VR product from Apple https://www.popsci.com/gear/apple-reality-trademark-filing/ Tue, 30 Aug 2022 18:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=466253
Exterior of spherical Apple store in Singapore in the evening.
The age of iReality approaches. Keming Tan/Unsplash

Rumors indicate Apple could announce its next major tech ecosystem within a matter of months.

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Exterior of spherical Apple store in Singapore in the evening.
The age of iReality approaches. Keming Tan/Unsplash

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Apple’s intentions to unveil its own “metaverse” has been an open secret for years, but new reports indicate we could closer than ever to seeing the mystery plans finally brought to light. Not only that, but it sounds like it’s going to be a lot bigger than a single VR headset. That’s right, time to prepare for the impending debut of Apple’s Reality.

As 9to5Mac explained yesterday, there are number of indications pointing towards a major announcement from Apple within months regarding an entirely new tech ecosystem based around a “realityOS” or “rOS.” Reports as far back as 2017 reveal the company has been hard at work on a new iOS-based operating system for its future AR and VR devices. Additionally, Apple may have recently filed trademarks for the names “Reality One” and “Reality Pro,” indicating potential products and/or new, dedicated processor chips for the devices. “RealityOS” has also cropped up within Apple’s own App Store coding logs, so signs are certainly pointing towards a new era for the company structured around the brand.

[Related: Apple’s Self Service Repair finally includes MacBooks.]

“This version of iOS would have been created with augmented and virtual reality in mind, so that it uses existing ARKit capabilities to run AR/VR apps on new categories of devices,” 9to5Mac goes on to explain. Bloomberg also reported earlier this summer that the new OS includes VR versions of core iPhone apps—presumably programs like Maps, iMessage, and Apple Music, among others.

The impending debut of realityOS and its various iterations could undoubtedly have major implications for the burgeoning VR/AR industry. While Mark Zuckerberg is still adamant his version of the metaverse is worth visiting, many remain unconvinced. Meanwhile, Apple has seen massive success in basically every tech market it decides to enter. Although rumors indicate initial realityOS products may be high-end devices meant to pave the way for more ubiquitous (and cheaper) usage, it won’t be long before Apple expects its rOS to get into the hands of as many consumers as possible.

Of course, nothing is confirmed (yet) as to when Apple could finally make its much-hyped Reality a, well, reality. Sometime early in 2023 is certainly feasible, although there’s also a decent possibility that we might see at least some kind of teaser before the end of the year—perhaps just in time to stoke holiday season hype for Apple’s existing products. Also important to note that Apple’s next big product launch will take place on September 7.

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Amazon has Citizen Eco Drive, Timex, and Seiko watches up to 60 percent off before Labor Day https://www.popsci.com/gear/amazon-watch-labor-day-sale/ Tue, 30 Aug 2022 15:25:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=466180
Amazon watches on-sale
Pick the right watch for you. Amazon

If your smartwatch is stressing you out, it's time to go analog.

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Amazon watches on-sale
Pick the right watch for you. Amazon

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If you’re getting sick of your smartwatch allowing the never-ending onslaught of app alerts spill over from your phone, then you should take advantage of Amazon’s current pre-Labor Day sale on analog timepieces. You can currently get up to 48 percent off of models from Seiko, Timex, and Citizen. I’m particularly fond of the Citizen Eco Drive PCAT model, which receives super-accurate times from atomic clocks via radio signals so it always keeps extremely accurate time without you having to set it manually. Plus, the built-in Eco Drive tech keeps the watch fully charged by soaking up light from any light source in your environment. It’s $339, which is 48 percent off the regular price.

Citizen

SEE IT

If you want something even simpler, Seiko’s Mechanical Automatic watch is a great, stylish option. The whole thing is stainless steel, from the case to the bracelet. It has a 39mm case, which is substantial, but not bulky. It also has both manual and automatic winding options so you can get the tactile satisfaction of turning the stainless steel crown every few days if you feel like it. It’s currently $219, down from its $550 regular price.

Seiko

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You can check out the full selection of sale watches (some of which have made our list of best watches under $500 in the past), or scroll down to see some of the most interesting deals that we’ve collected here. Once you’ve got your new watch, go and check out our list of the best watch winders. You’re like two purchases away from becoming a full-fledged insufferable watch person. Classy!

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A new generation of wearables may know when you’re stressed https://www.popsci.com/technology/wearable-stress-tech/ Mon, 29 Aug 2022 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=465574
Press photo of Happy Ring resting on desktop next to phone with Happy Ring app on screen
A modern day mood ring. Happy Ring

Products like Happy Ring from Tinder founder Sean Rad aim to make wearable stress monitors our future.

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Press photo of Happy Ring resting on desktop next to phone with Happy Ring app on screen
A modern day mood ring. Happy Ring

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Health monitoring tech like Google Fit and the Apple Health app rake in millions of dollars every year. But they are primarily limited to physical aspects like fitness and sleep quality. Recently, however, multiple companies are attempting to tackle the psychological aspects of consumers’ wellbeing, raising numerous questions regarding privacy, accuracy, and ethics.

Both Fitbit and Tinder cofounder, Sean Rad, are offering new products billed as tools to better keep track and improve users’ mental health. The former’s newest item, the Sense 2, is a wearable akin to the Apple Watch that attempts to monitor your stress levels in realtime, then react accordingly. Aside from already ubiquitous datapoints like heart rate and skin temperature, Fitbit’s Sense 2 constantly measures electrodermal activity, aka sweat levels.

[Related: A beginner’s guide to Google Fit and Apple Health.]

Meanwhile, Rad’s Happy Ring company is already taking preorders for its new wearable designed that checks in with users whenever it notices stress-indicating fluctuations in biometrics. “Happy Ring makes no claims of being a diagnostic tool. Rather, the company believes it has cracked the code of monitoring wearers’ progress, in a kind of mental health analog to fitness trackers like Apple Watch and Oura,” explains TechCrunch in a recent writeup. “Much like those products, it purports to be a method for monitoring those vital readings and presenting actionable data to help get the wearer back on track.”

There is no upfront hardware cost to the Happy Ring—instead, consumers will pay for one of three subscription tiers ranging between $20 and $30 per month on a contract basis. When paired with its app, Happy Ring will monitor wearers’ biometric data in real-time, alerting them when it detects spikes in stress or tension and directing them to aid like cognitive behavioral therapy and breathing exercises, meditation prompts, and educational articles.

[Related: Tinder and the metaverse are breaking up.]

Many consumers may be intrigued by the idea of having comparatively cheap, constantly available digital counselor at their side, but there are numerous caveats to new products like these. First, as always, is understanding how customers’ data will be stored, utilized, and potentially sold to third-parties. None of these services are purely altruistic, and consumer health data is a goldmine to countless companies looking to hone their markets.

Secondly, an app’s recommendations are rarely a perfect substitute for actual mental health services and aid. While access to counselors and psychologists remains a major barrier for a huge portion of the country, products like Fitbit and Happy Ring won’t always be suitable alternatives. Then there’s the question of accuracy—inner psychological workings are much more complicated than physical exercise routines. It could be ineffective, potentially even dangerous, to think these intersectional issues can be broken down by apps and wearables. This isn’t to write off the industry entirely, but a healthy degree of skepticism is necessary when approaching what appears to be an inevitably massive industry in the years ahead.

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Garmin Instinct 2 Solar smartwatch review: A highly capable adventure watch https://www.popsci.com/gear/garmin-instinct-solar-review/ Fri, 28 May 2021 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=367750
Neo Tropic Garmin Instinct 2S Solar on Abby's wrist on a sandy trail
The Garmin Instinct 2S Solar proved itself an advanced, ready-for-anything fitness watch thanks to its ruggedized body and solar-charging technology. Abby Ferguson

With solar charging and nearly endless activity types, the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar will be able to keep up no matter how you see, or stay, fit.

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Neo Tropic Garmin Instinct 2S Solar on Abby's wrist on a sandy trail
The Garmin Instinct 2S Solar proved itself an advanced, ready-for-anything fitness watch thanks to its ruggedized body and solar-charging technology. Abby Ferguson

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While many activity trackers strive for sleek, discreet designs, Garmin created the Instinct 2 Solar for those who like classic outdoor watch styling without sacrificing advanced features. Despite its rugged, rather old-school body and display, the second iteration of this Garmin solar watch is a robust smartwatch with highly accurate GPS, wrist-based heart rate monitoring, and integrated solar charging. While there haven’t been many changes on the exterior, the watch’s software has some updates that many will appreciate, mostly related to activity tracking. The Garmin Instinct 2 Solar promises to give you more accurate training information and keep you from charging as often and, in most respects, it delivers. 

Abby Ferguson

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The Garmin Instinct 2 Solar’s design

As already mentioned, the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar doesn’t look very different from the original Instinct Solar. The case is made of the same fiber-reinforced polymer, the display is still Garmin’s transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) display, and both versions are topped with Corning Gorilla Glass for durability. The Power Glass tech allows the watch to charge by absorbing sunlight through both visible side panels and an invisible layer atop the display. The bezel has been ever so slightly redesigned, though it’s like a spot-the-difference game to see what changed since it’s so subtle. 

Garmin Instinct 2 Solar on Abby's wrist at the beach
The smaller 40mm size option is a nice choice for those with small wrists and hands. Abby Ferguson

The Instinct 2 Solar comes in the original 45mm, 53g case options and a new, smaller 40mm, 43g size (technically designated the 2S). The latter—in the color “Neo Tropic”—is the watch I have been eating, sleeping, and breathing in for the past month or so. Despite my child-sized wrists, it fits well and, thanks to the 13.3 mm thickness, it doesn’t look clunky like other sports watches I’ve used. The band that comes with the smaller size is quite short, however. So while it fits me (just barely), many will likely need to purchase a separate, longer band.

 

Underside/clasp of the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar smartwatch on Abby's wrist
Though I could loosen the watch some, I’ve almost maxed out the tiny band on the 2S, even with my small wrists.  Abby Ferguson

It is a rugged watch, intended to be put through the wringer. It’s water-rated to 100 meters, so it can stand up to some deep free-dives, making a bit of sweat and rain a piece of cake. And it’s thermal and shock resistant, so if you climb with it on and take some hard falls, it should easily survive. I wore mine to the gym, knocking it on a fair share of weight racks and bushwhacked through some dense forest, and it still looks brand new without so much as a scratch anywhere. 

The display is a slightly higher resolution than the original Instinct Solar (156 x 156 pixels for the 2S vs. 128 x 128 pixels for the original) but, as mentioned, it is still the same old-school, monochrome look. This basic display contributes significantly to the Instinct’s 21-day battery life even when in smartwatch mode. It isn’t very fancy to look at, however.

The watch has a pretty large bezel, which eats up quite a bit of screen real estate. So while it collects tons of data and shows you graphs of certain things, such as sleep quality, I have found it a bit difficult to read and assess the graphs on the watch itself because of the small, monochrome screen. If I really want to see the information, it’s a much better experience to pull it up in the Garmin app instead. 

Setting up the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar

Garmin makes the setup process for any of its watches incredibly easy, especially if you already have a Garmin watch and account. The watch comes with a partial charge right out of the box, so you can get to set up right after opening it. You will need to download the Garmin Connect app (available for iPhone and Android), but the watch guides you through the process step-by-step and makes it very easy to pair with your phone/app using a Bluetooth connection. 

I was already a Garmin user, so the setup took only a few minutes on my Samsung Galaxy S10. But even if you are starting from scratch, it shouldn’t take much longer. Of course, if you want to take the time to customize things like notifications, tones, and watch faces right out the gate, you could spend quite a while in both Garmin Connect (the watch’s settings/metrics hub) and Garmin Connect IQ (the watch’s app, or “widget,” store, which did not work with the original Instinct). When in Connect, you’ll see steps that still need to be completed for full setup by tapping on the watch at the top. However, some, such as connecting to Garmin Pay, can wait or not be done at all, depending on what you want to use. 

The Garmin Instinct 2 Solar’s features

The Instinct 2 Solar is a comparatively simple smartwatch despite costing $450, lacking some of the fancier features of higher-end, Garmin offerings like the multisport fēnix 7 Sapphire Solar and premium running Forerunner 955. Those watches offer color touchscreens, more advanced training suggestions, and more detailed navigation maps. But the Instinct 2 Solar is still plenty feature-rich and provides loads of insights and data.   

Battery life

I would be remiss if I didn’t start out with the feature advertised in the name since “Solar” is one of the main selling points of this watch. Because of the basic display and the solar charging, it can last a seriously long time, though that seems to be with some caveats. 

Garmin Instinct 2S Solar in the sand displaying solar intensity
You can track how much solar life your watch is taking advantage of (and how much sun you’re soaking up, too) in the Solar Intensity Glance. Abby Ferguson

According to Garmin, the Instinct 2 models improve slightly on the original and the 40mm Instinct 2S can last 21 days in smartwatch mode/51 days with solar and has potentially unlimited battery life when in battery saver mode (more in the standard-sized model). However, I have not been able to get that kind of battery life out of it, partially because it assumes the watch gets 3 hours of 50,000 lux sunlight conditions a day and partially because that number is based on general wear, with no or at least limited activity tracking. With a GPS-enabled activity nearly every day, and sometimes more than one, I have to charge it about once a week (running GPS nonstop, battery life is rated at 22 hours/28 with solar). Admittedly, I’m also not spending much time in the most intense sun right now, thanks to the summer heat, so I’ve not been able to take full advantage of the solar functionality—though I plan to gauge the battery life claims more as I evaluate other sports watches, so this section will be updated. Even without taking full advantage of solar, however, it still lasts longer than my much-loved Forerunner 745, and some time on the window sill or a sunbaked rock will keep it running for a day or two in a pinch.

You can change how often and what sensors pull from the battery, so you can customize it to get more battery life. And when the battery is running low, the watch prompts you to switch it to battery saver mode, which gives you a very pared-down display with no smartwatch functionality. And when you need to plug it in for a charge with the provided proprietary multi-pin USB cable (though no wall adapter), it bounces back quickly. I was able to fully charge the battery from 0% to 100% in about three-and-a-half hours, so it’s quick to top off the battery when you need to.

Activity tracker

If you’re buying a Garmin watch, it’s almost certainly for its acumen as a fitness tracker. The Instinct 2 Solar offers activity modes for just about every type of exercise, workout, and sport you could imagine, from treadmill and trail running and cycling (road, eBike, indoors, mountain, etc.) to climbing, swimming, and even breathwork and multi-day expeditions. HIIT timers are in the newer model, as well. Some you will need to add to the watch, but doing so hardly takes any time at all and can be done on the watch itself or the app.

Garmin also makes a few different editions of this watch, which have unique, hyper-specific modes. For example, the Surf Edition has specific tracking for surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing, along with tide data that you can’t access on the Standard Edition. There’s also a Tactical Edition, with Jumpmaster activity, waypoint projection, dual-position GPS format, preloaded tactical activity, and a stealth mode. Of course, the Standard Edition has just about everything other than some of those specialized activities so, for most, it will be the one to get.

No matter what type of activity you do, it is straightforward to track it. Different activities offer specific information on the watch face, though all of that is customizable, so you can choose what information is most important to see while tracking. For example, I like to have my heart rate and distance prominently displayed when on runs, while things like cadence and lap time aren’t important to me. 

You can also choose to silence tones and notifications during workouts. For example, if I’m out for a run, I don’t want to be notified that someone liked my Instagram post, so I can easily choose to block those during that activity. 

Garmin Instinct 2S Solar display on a wrist on a run
On suggested runs, the data displayed varies from normal runs. It shows you if your pace is falling within the recommended range.  Abby Ferguson

The watch can also give you suggested running workouts to help improve your fitness. When you click to start a run, a screen will pop up with “Today’s Suggestion” that provides a brief summary of the run and its training effect. It’s a nice way to mix up your workouts without paying for a coach or doing your own extensive research. 

Data collection and insights

The watch obviously collects quite a lot of data while recording activities, relying on the plethora of sensors built into it. It connects with three Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)—GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo—for better accuracy, has the newer Garmin Elevate Gen4 optical heart rate sensor, plus includes a barometric altimeter, compass, accelerometer, and thermometer. But it also collects lots of data when you aren’t explicitly recording an activity. For example, you can always see your heart rate and step count. 

Back/sensors of the Garmin Instinct 2S Solar
Garmin’s Elevate Gen4 optical heart rate sensor is one of several on the back of the watch. Abby Ferguson

If you wear the watch to bed, it will also track your sleep, giving you insight into your sleep stages throughout the night. I have found the sleep tracking to be hit and miss in terms of accuracy, with some nights showing as excellent sleep even though I most definitely was awake for chunks of time and do not feel rested in the morning. 

Though it’s not always accurate, wearing the watch during sleep allows Garmin to get a more complete picture of your fitness and recovery status, which is new on this Instinct 2 Solar. On this second version, you can now access Garmin’s Training Status, VO2 max, and Recovery time. If you are serious about your training, these are all very helpful. 

While the provided VO2 max value relies on an algorithm and heart rate data, the estimation yields similar results to a proper VO2 max test, which relies on indirect calorimetry and requires expensive lab equipment. And, if you click on the Training Status on either the watch or the app, it will tell you if you need to adjust your training in any particular way to improve your fitness. Of course, it is generalized, so if you are training for something specific, it may not be very accurate, but it does a great job for general fitness. 

Smartwatch features

Like most fitness trackers these days, the Instinct 2 Solar is a full smartwatch. That means it pairs with your phone to provide notifications on the watch’s display. Any notification you get on your phone can come through, though some allow more interaction than others. It’s handy when you are in a situation where you can’t or don’t want to pick up your phone but you want to know if any important calls or messages are coming through. When out and about, I typically leave my phone in my purse when out and about and only take it out if it’s something I care to deal with right then. 

The Instinct 2 Solar doesn’t have a cellular connection and it lacks a microphone, so you can’t take calls or use a voice assistant, etc. But, you can set up prewritten responses to texts or calls and respond from the watch, which is ideal for when you are in the middle of something. You can also like Instagram messages from the watch, should you care to do that. 

Safety features

One of the things that I love about the Instinct 2 Solar is the safety features. Garmin added Incident Detection to this second iteration, which uses the sensors in your watch to detect if a fall or crash may have occurred on a walk, run, or ride. If it does detect an event, it will text your emergency contact, which you can set up in the app.

There is also the ability to request assistance manually, though quickly, if needed. By simply holding the top left button for three seconds, the watch will send a text or email to your emergency contact with your exact location. It will continue to send your location until you end it and can even send an “I’m OK” text if things resolve themselves. You will need to have your phone on you and have service to use it, but it is very nice to know that feature is there if I ever find myself in a dicey situation. 

Garmin Instinct 2S Solar on a wrist on a colorful trail
The TracBack feature lets you easily navigate back to your starting point. Abby Ferguson

As a robust GPS watch, you’ll also be able to use Garmin’s TracBack. It is an extremely beneficial tool for any backcountry activities, as it allows you to follow your traveled path without needing to place waypoints as you go. Should you get lost, it makes it much easier to find your way back even if you don’t have expert-level navigation skills.

Lastly, you’ll also have access to Garmin’s LiveTrack. When you start a run, hike, or bike ride, you can send LiveTrack information to whomever. It’s an excellent feature for backcountry activities so that someone can know where you are and if your outing takes as long as expected. All these extra layers of protection make me feel safer when out alone on runs, bike rides, or hikes, and make my husband more comfortable with my solo trips as well. 

Garmin app

Though you can do a lot on the watch, the Garmin Connect app provides the best method for viewing and analyzing data collected by the device. As mentioned, it can be hard to decipher some data on the watch, so being able to see all that information in the app is very useful. The app also provides even more information and training data than the watch does, so you can really nerd out and get into the nitty-gritty. 

The app also lets you fully customize your watch, from downloading specialized faces to changing notification settings and enabling safety features. You can do much of that on the watch itself, but it may be easier for some to do on the app. 

For those who like the social aspects of staying active, Garmin also has its own platform for that within the app. You can connect with other Garmin users, with options to “like” or comment on their activities. There are even challenges that you can join to stay motivated. It’s not as feature-rich as apps like Strava, but connecting with others can be a big motivator. And you can also link your Garmin account to Strava, should you want your data to sync there. 

Usability and accuracy

Overall, the watch is easy and intuitive to use. The labels on the bezel help identify what key functions fall under each button (labeled Control, Menu, ABC, GPS, Set), but you will want to read through the manual or do a walkthrough to figure out where certain settings are hiding. I did find the menus slightly more confusing than on my Forerunner 745, but not overly so.

I had some lagging issues when pushing buttons for the first time in a while, resulting in me waiting for it to go to the right menu when wanting to start a workout or view certain stats. It isn’t terribly long, but it is enough to be a bit annoying and hasn’t been an issue on other Garmin watches I’ve used. 

Forerunner 955 Solar next to Garmin Instinct 2S Solar on Abby's wrist
The Instinct 2S Solar’s display looks very old school next to the Forerunner 955’s large, colorful screen, but the data gathered by both is consistent and insightful. Abby Ferguson

I wore both the Instinct Solar 2S and Forerunner 955 Solar (which I’m also reviewing) on a handful of runs—both on my left wrist, though I also had a chest-based heart rate monitor that I only had paired with the Instinct. Results did vary slightly across pretty much all fields when I examined them in Garmin Connect, but it was all well within the margin of error. So, I would fully trust the results from both watches. I anticipated any heart rate-related fields to be different since chest straps provide much more accurate and reliable data than wrist-based. 

Garmin will suggest workouts for you when starting a run, and interestingly those varied slightly between the two watches as well. The Forerunner 955’s recommendations seemed to align better with my current fitness level and pacing abilities, though that is strictly based on perceived effort type insight. The Instinct Solar 2S also didn’t have any motivational type messages pop up after a run as the Forerunner 955 did. Although small and perhaps somewhat silly, it made me prefer running with the Forerunner. 

So, who should buy the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar?

There are other fitness-tracking smartwatches that are sleeker and thus better suited for blending into everyday wear (such as the Apple Watch Series 7). The rugged styling of the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar means that it doesn’t necessarily fit well with fancy attire, though I have to admit I am one of those who wear their Garmin no matter what the outfit, so this is a matter of personal preference.

Though the watch fully tracks activities and collects loads of data, it doesn’t present the information quite as elegantly or thoroughly as some of Garmin’s more specialized watches. As a result, it probably isn’t the best option if you are an intensely focused, multisport athlete (that’s where the fēnix 7 and even more expressive EPIX Gen. 2 series come in). And, as a runner, I much prefer the Forerunner 955, as it provides better workout suggestions and gives me more information about my preferred type of training. The higher-resolution color screen on the Forerunner also makes it easier to see data while running, which I appreciate. 

The durability and long battery life when outside, however, make the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar a truly fantastic smartwatch for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a more casual but still comprehensive activity tracker. It also has navigation modes that are helpful for activities. I definitely see the advantages of this watch for longer hikes, climbs, or multi-day adventures and plan on using it for such trips in the future. You can trust that it will survive some serious trips and that the battery life, once settings are customized, will keep up with your lifestyle.

The post Garmin Instinct 2 Solar smartwatch review: A highly capable adventure watch appeared first on Popular Science.

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Get this Apple Watch alternative for less than $60 on Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/amazfit-smartwatch-amazon-deal/ Tue, 23 Aug 2022 18:45:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=464477
Three smartwatches lined up on a blue gradient background
Amanda Reed

The clock is ticking on the chance to get fancy smartwatch capabilities sans the fancy smartwatch price.

The post Get this Apple Watch alternative for less than $60 on Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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Three smartwatches lined up on a blue gradient background
Amanda Reed

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Smartwatches are a great way to look at the time, send messages, and get health insights while keeping your phone in your pocket. The Amazfit Bip U Pro, a far more affordable alternative to the Apple Watch, is on sale for $56.99 on Amazon, down from $69.99. Soon the summer heat will break, but you won’t, and an Amazfit lets you track your continued fall training.

Amazfit

SEE IT

We’ve previously reviewed the Bip U Pro and praised it for its accurate fitness metrics recording. A voice assistant and GPS are built-in, meaning you can ask Alexa about the best running routes and promptly take them. More than 60 sports modes help you exercise at your athletic level—from running novice to marathon marvel—and health-tracking lets you collect heart rate, blood oxygen levels, stress, sleep quality, and more. The watch is as light as a feather at 31 grams, but its intelligence stings like a bee—you can even control the camera of your smartphone from it. And, a 9-day battery life means it doesn’t stop to rest, just like you on a three-mile run.

If you’re not looking for a smartwatch but want a dedicated fitness tracker with long battery life, the Amazfit Band 7—which we are thoroughly reviewing, alongside the T-Rex 2, so check back in the coming month—lasts for 18 days on a single charge and includes double the amount of sports modes. It’s also water-resistant up to 50 meters, can simultaneously read heart rate, blood oxygen, and stress levels with one tap, and is currently $44.99 (with $5 off coupon clicked).

Don’t spend too much time debating on this deal—some of these smart watches will be back to their retail prices when the clock strikes midnight.

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Can this portable fan help you stay cool, even during a heat wave? https://www.popsci.com/sponsored-content/wearable-fan-sale-2/ Mon, 22 Aug 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=463956
A woman wearing a blue short sleeved shirt and a wearable fan around her neck.
Stack Commerce

Cool off anytime with a small but mighty wearable fan.

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A woman wearing a blue short sleeved shirt and a wearable fan around her neck.
Stack Commerce

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It may be a near-annual event to discuss the often-deadly heat waves in the summer months. Last year, heat domes punished the Pacific Northwest. This year, temperatures across the United States and Europe have continued to rise. However, preparations for prolonged extreme temperatures are not impossible. In fact, in the right weather, something as simple as a small fan could make a difference in your body’s temperature regulation. 

Keeping cool during a heat wave is often as much an issue of economics as a battle against a changing climate and the man-made forces that led it there. The average electric bill in the summer for Arizona residents can range from $100–$250 per month for an apartment. For a house of slightly greater-than-average size in Phoenix, the price rises to around $450 a month.

But summer isn’t the only time it’s hot. With temperatures rising around the world and signs of global warming only growing more common, other means of keeping cool are practically a necessity, particularly during times of year you aren’t expecting (or prepared for) heat. That’s where an affordable personal cooling device, like the wearable Cool Blades fan, can come in extremely handy.

While not a perfect solution to your sweatiest moments, these compact devices could provide the means to stay cooler both during the sweltering days of summer and the warmer and warmer days of other seasons. Right now, you can pick up a Cool Blades wearable fan in black or white and save 72 percent on the retail price.

Will a portable fan really keep me cool?

According to a 2019 study, the best time for a small, powerful fan to help lower your body temperature is in hot and humid conditions. In arid heatwaves, fans may just blow hot air at you. However, other researchers have found that when external moisture is applied to the skin, humidity matters less. If you live in a hot, dry place and want to cool off with a fan, spritz some cool water on yourself and then sit in front of the fan. Pair those spinning blades with a simple spray bottle full of water for an efficient way to help cool down without jacking up the AC. 

A wearable fan that can help you beat the heat

Global Warming photo

If holding up a fan doesn’t sound like a good time, or if sitting in one place isn’t an option, a wearable fan like the Cool Blades 4.0 is a great solution. This device drapes around the wearer’s neck and has a dual-fan system with three speeds. At its minimum speed, the fan can operate for up to 10 hours. If you are away from an air-conditioned environment or want to cut down on your electric bill, you’ll want this convenient tool with you.

Heat—especially extreme heat—can exhaust your body quickly. That summer lethargy isn’t laziness. While Cool Blades may just be pointing up at you from your neck, the added temperature control of a portable fan could help you get some of your heat-lost energy back. Pair this portable fan with its battery pack, and you could help keep yourself cool for hours longer. With a battery life of 600–800 cycles, proper treatment of your fan could give you many chilled-out days and nights.

Global Warming photo

A compact, hands-free fan like this can help add some climate control to all places and situations. Think about your commute, your office, walking the dog, shopping for groceries, appointment waiting rooms, or even the homes of friends and family; having a wearable fan in these scenarios can make you feel less miserable. And with internal fan blades, you should not have to worry about hair or clothes getting caught (though it’s probably best to tie longer strands back just in case). 

Plan for season creep

Even if the most recent heatwave where you live has ended, there’s no telling when higher-than-average temperatures will return for summer, fall, or beyond. Extreme temperatures and season creep are something we’ll be dealing with long-term. Making an investment in a portable, wearable fan like the Cool Blades 4.0 is a great way to improve your immediate surroundings on any given day of the year. And while the Cool Blades 4.0 wearable fan is marked down to $32.99 from $119.99, that investment is pretty small. 

Prices subject to change.

The post Can this portable fan help you stay cool, even during a heat wave? appeared first on Popular Science.

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Samsung announces new Galaxy Z folding phones, Galaxy Watch5 Pro, and more https://www.popsci.com/gear/samsung-unpacked-2022-galaxy-z-fold/ Wed, 10 Aug 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=461312
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 News
Samsung

Samsung “unpacked” the Galaxy Z Fold4, Z Flip4, Watch5, Watch5 Pro, and Buds2 Pro on its latest livestream.

The post Samsung announces new Galaxy Z folding phones, Galaxy Watch5 Pro, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 News
Samsung

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Samsung’s summer Unpacked event brings exciting announcements every August and this year’s presentation didn’t disappoint. The company unveiled new versions of its two high-end foldable phones—the Galaxy Z Fold4 and Galaxy Z Flip4—which have been fine-tuned with slimmer bezels, smaller hinges, and more seamless display creases. It also revealed two versions of its next smartwatch—the Galaxy Watch5 and the first-ever Galaxy Watch5 Pro, which features a tough titanium case and sapphire crystal display. Last, but not least, an upgraded version of Samsung’s earbuds, the Galaxy Buds2 Pro, features some subtle design tweaks and support for high-fidelity audio.

Galaxy Z Fold4

Samsung Galaxy Fold4
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 has a wider screen and a much-improved set of cameras. Samsung

With each passing year, Samsung’s Z Fold series further establishes itself as the company’s premier foldable. Samsung refines the Z Fold4’s signature tablet-esque 7.6-inch AMOLED 2X folding screen with a slightly wider inner display, a more subtle hinge with less of a crease, and a less-intrusive under-display camera. Samsung has also taken great pains to make the Z Fold4 more durable than its predecessors, as the line’s integrity has always been a concern. This year’s model features IPX8 water resistance for the first time and a newly optimized layer structure on the main display for enhanced shock absorption. 

Under the hood, the Z Fold4 is powered by a Snapdragon+ Gen 1 processor, has 12GB of RAM, and offers 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB of storage. The device continues to provide a triple-camera setup, but there are some welcome updates this year.

Its rear cameras receive a major boost, sporting the same trio as the Samsung Galaxy S22—a 12MP ultra-wide, a 50MP wide, and a 10MP telephoto camera, the latter of which offers 3x optical zoom and 30x digital zoom. It will also feature a 10MP wide camera on the front, just like Z Fold3.

Samsung Galaxy Fold4 2
According to Samsung, the central display crease and the under-display camera won’t be as noticeable on the Fold4. Samsung

Samsung has also made some software changes that make the Z Fold4 a more effective multitasker. The taskbar has been redesigned in OneUI 4.1.1, providing users easy access to their favorite and recently used apps. Speaking of software, the Z Fold4 is the first device to ship with Android 12L, a version of Android for large screen and foldable devices.

Last, but not least, the Fold4 now has touchpad controls in “flex mode,” when the Fold4 is partially folded. It should, if nothing else, make it easier to use the half-screen as a viewfinder when taking selfies.

The Galaxy Z Fold4 will be available Aug. 26 for $1,799 in graygreen, phantom black, and beige. Samsung is also offering the device in burgundy exclusively on its website.

Galaxy Z Flip4

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4
According to Samsung, the Z Flip series is the world’s most popular folding phone line. Samsung

Samsung also introduced an updated Galaxy Z Flip, which the company said is the most popular foldable in the world. (Practically speaking, that simply means it’s more popular than the Z Fold.) This year’s model, the Galaxy Z Flip4 improves the clamshell design with a tougher frame, refined hinge, and slimmer display bezels compared to previous generations. Samsung also said the display is stronger, so users will encounter fewer unexpected cracks from everyday use.

Improved durability is welcome but that isn’t the only change. Samsung has enhanced the cover screen so users can more efficiently reply to messages and make calls. New widgets are also being made available, further establishing the cover screen as a core part of the Z Flip experience. The concept of the cover screen has always been exciting and it looks like Samsung is getting closer to making it a reliable quick-glance solution in more situations.

Like last year’s model, the Galaxy Z Flip4 launches with a 6.7-inch OLED display that features a 22:9 aspect ratio and supports 120Hz ProMotion technology. The display also features a 10MP selfie camera with a familiar hole punch design.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 News
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 cover screen will let you make calls and reply quickly to text messages. Samsung

The Z Flip4 is powered by a Snapdragon+ Gen 1 processor and comes with 8GB of RAM and 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB storage options. The device also comes with a 3700mAh battery that can charge to 50% in just half an hour, and it’s water-resistant, so it can survive getting wet if caught in a downpour. Like last year, the Z Flip 4 features a dual-camera setup, with a brighter 12MP wide lens and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. 

Samsung said the cameras now offer larger pixels, better image stabilization, and enhanced processing for better low-light performance. Tracking for video has also been improved, so moving subjects stay in focus without much intervention from the user.

The Galaxy Z Flip4 will cost $999 when it launches Aug. 26 and is available in bora purple, graphite, pink gold, and blue. Samsung is also offering bespoke editions that will allow users to pick from a set of colors for the front, back, and frame.

Galaxy Watch5 and Galaxy Watch5 Pro

Samsung Z Fold4 News
The many faces of the Samsung Galaxy Watch5. Samsung

Samsung historically releases a standard Galaxy Watch and a more robust, expensive “classic” version with a larger frame. This year, the company is shaking things up by introducing the Galaxy Watch5 and a more rugged, outdoor-minded Galaxy Watch5 Pro.

The Galaxy Watch5 comes in 40mm and 44mm sizes and will be available in both Bluetooth and LTE. Both feature sapphire crystal glass and curved rear glass, which Samsung said offers better contact with a user’s wrist, enabling more accurate biometrics, including advanced sleep coaching, body composition analysis, heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen levels, and a new skin temperature detection feature, which could tell users when they have a fever. The Watch5 also features IP68 water and dust resistance and runs Wear OS powered by Samsung’s customizations.

The 40mm Watch5 features a 1.19-inch display and 284mAh battery, and the 44mm Watch5 includes a 1.36-inch display and 410mAh battery. Otherwise, the two devices offer the same features and support 20mm band sizes. The Galaxy Watch5 starts at $279 for the 40mm and 44mm versions with Bluetooth and the price goes up for both models to $329 if you want LTE. Curiously, the small version is available in silver, graphite, and pink gold, while the larger model comes in sapphire, silver, and graphite.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 News
The Galaxy Watch5 Pro is a larger, more durable smartwatch for sports and the outdoors. Samsung

The only totally new product in the announcement, Galaxy Watch5 Pro is a larger smartwatch made for people who spend a lot of time in the great outdoors. It features a harder titanium case and a sapphire crystal display, making it better prepared to handle whatever outdoor adventure you have planned. 

The Galaxy Watch5 Pro comes in a single, extra-large 45mm case size. Like the Watch5, it offers advanced health and sleep tracking features. It includes a larger 1.36-inch display and a 590mAh battery, giving it enough juice to last a day away from outlets. The Galaxy Watch5 Pro will start at $499 and comes in black and gray titanium.

On the software side, both the Galaxy Watch5 and Watch5 Pro will have eight new watch faces and support Samsung’s Smart Switch feature, which allows you to quickly transfer contacts and other data from an old Galaxy Watch.

Galaxy Buds2 Pro

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 News
The Galaxy Buds2 Pro offer high-fidelity sounds and a more comfortable design than its predecessors. Samsung

Last year, Samsung released the Galaxy Buds2, and this year Samsung follows the “Pro” earbuds trend with the Galaxy Buds2 Pro. These true wireless earbuds feature improved active noise cancellation, allowing users to tone down even the loudest ambient noise, and an auto voice detect feature, which can turn down your music and let outside noise in after you start speaking.

Since the Buds2 already offered active noise cancellation, the distinction between the Buds2 and Buds2 Pro is a little more subtle, focusing on a smaller design and improved fidelity. Samsung said this year’s Pro model is 15% smaller than the Buds2, providing users with a more comfortable fit. The updated design also helps reduce pressure inside your ear because, as Samsung explained, air flows more effectively through the device. The more ergonomic design also prevents rotation, so you can comfortably lay down without them moving around.

The Galaxy Buds2 Pro offers higher-quality audio in the right conditions, thanks to new 10mm drivers with support for 24-bit audio. The higher bit depth provides audio with a higher dynamic range and reduced noise, resulting in a cleaner sound. It also offers multi-channel Dolby Atmos support for virtual surround sound in certain streaming apps. The Buds2 Pro also features IPX7 water resistance.

The Galaxy Buds2 Pro will be available Aug. 26 for $229 (up from $200 for the original Buds Pro).

The post Samsung announces new Galaxy Z folding phones, Galaxy Watch5 Pro, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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Fossil Latitude Hybrid HR review: A smartwatch for people who hate smartwatches https://www.popsci.com/reviews/fossil-latitude-smartwatch-review/ Tue, 01 Jun 2021 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=368313
Fossil Latitude Hybrid HR smartwatch
The face is clean and easy to read when there are no complications on it. Eric Alt

A great entry-level smartwatch, the Fossil Latitude Hybrid HR combines curated information with tried-and-true style.

The post Fossil Latitude Hybrid HR review: A smartwatch for people who hate smartwatches appeared first on Popular Science.

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Fossil Latitude Hybrid HR smartwatch
The face is clean and easy to read when there are no complications on it. Eric Alt

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Before a piece of technology becomes ubiquitous, there exists a period where you have early adopters going all-in on the shiny new toy and others who continue to cling to the old, comfortable ways of doing things. The smartwatch is still kind of in that phase, where some people are reluctant to give up their familiar watch for something that offers more functionality, but also potentially more complications. 

Traditional watchmakers such as Fossil are doing their best to usher these people into the new era by manufacturing hybrid smartwatches that have the look and feel of traditional timepieces—showcasing classic mechanical action atop a display for features like step trackers, weather reports, plus text and email alerts, etc. The Fossil Latitude Hybrid HR—the most fully-featured of the Fossil smartwatch connected lineup with the inclusion of an always-on display and heart rate monitor—may not market itself as a “Smartwatch for People Who Don’t Like Smartwatches,” but it may as well. 

A great smartwatch design for newcomers

Fossil has long been known for making stylish—but ultimately straightforward—watches. The company puts years of design experience behind its Fossil watches, and the end result shows. The Fossil Latitude Hybrid HR has the heft of a good sports or diving watch, and it doesn’t scream “smartwatch” on your wrist. 

The Fossil Latitude’s good looks lead the way

Right out of the box, the most striking thing about the Hybrid HR—like all the Fossil Latitude lineup—is, well, how much like a watch it looks. The hybrid Fossil smartwatch we tested was black and silver, with red highlights. It was simple, classic, and could easily be paired with work clothes or workout clothes. It simply looks like a quality timepiece, smart capabilities aside, which is to be expected for a timepiece that retails for $195. 

Lattitude Fossil Smart Watch
Clean, crisp text is easy to read on-screen. Eric Alt

The analog arms and large watch face are easy enough to read without any backlighting or digital display, and the watch’s 50mm case has considerable heft to it. It feels sturdy. The main drawback to this as a smartwatch is its weight. The Hybrid HR clocks in at a relatively hefty 5.6 ounces, which is considerable when measured against the Fitbit Versa 2 (1.41 oz) and the Apple Watch (1.07 oz); again, more in line with a “regular” Fossil watch that is typically around 6 ounces. The addition of extra weight renders some of its activity and fitness tracking capabilities moot, as it’s not comfortable as an all-out fitness accessory. 

The silicone watchband of the Fossil Latitude likewise feels sturdy and comfortable. At 24mm wide, it sits comfortably and doesn’t irritate nor does it feel like it’s ever in danger of overstretching or wearing out during typical day-to-day activity or even moderate exercise. Being a standard band size, as well, means it’s swappable based on your preferences.

The eyes have it

The Hybrid HR uses an e-ink display like the one you’d find on a Kindle, so it doesn’t glow like the OLED on an Apple Watch. This is a standout feature, because it can remain on all the time without eating up the battery life as greedily as a powered screen. The only drawback is that e-ink has a slow-ish refresh rate, so it may feel a bit sluggish compared to lit screens. Still, it’s easier on the eyes, but it can make the digital readouts tough to see at a glance. A firm double tap on the crystal kicks on a backlight in these instances.

The best feature as far as the Hybrid HR’s overall design is how the timepiece handles switching between traditional watch functions and the digital display. When you press the main side button to access digital information, the hour and minute hands automatically go to 9 and 3 to get out of your way.

Easy setup with iPhone or Android smartphone

If easing into smartwatch use is your plan with the Hybrid HR, then you will not be disappointed with this Fossil smartwatch. All you really have to do is download Fossil’s smartphone app, which is compatible with Android devices running OS 5.0 or higher and iOS devices on 12.0 and up. Once you do so, it walks you step by step through syncing and customizing your Fossil Latitude watch. 

The watch also comes with a USB cord for magnetic charging/syncing with a desktop device for downloading music or aligning calendars. Only two to three hours on its USB charger should provide a full, lasting charge of its lithium-ion battery. That juice-up can last well over a week: We tried the Hybrid HR with a fairly consistent amount of use and made it about 11 days before the battery was depleted. 

Like other offerings in the Fossil Latitude line, the Hybrid HR doesn’t have a ton of customization options, but it does allow you to prioritize certain functions and make them easier and quicker to access. The readout on the watch face itself is minimal, based on the company’s custom software, as opposed to a more robust OS like Google Wear. So, for example, if you intend to use this primarily for fitness, you can make activity trackers (such as steps and heart rate) your default display. If you are more interested in weather reports, you can bump those up easily as well. Through the smartphone app, you also select the apps you’d like to receive messages from—such as Gmail, Facebook Messenger, and even Slack—and you can set the watch to receive all messages from everyone, or only from favorite contacts.

Fossil Lattitude Hybrid HR smartwatch
It’s not massive, but it is chunky. Eric Alt

The learning curve with the Fossil Latitude Hybrid HR comes from getting used to which buttons on the watch itself do what. The main “big” side button is the “enter” button in most instances, which is different from other hybrid smartwatches that tend to use that as the default “back” button. Because the Hybrid HR’s crystal isn’t a touchscreen, scrolling is also button-based: the other two smaller buttons act a bit like scrolling cursors.

The rest of what you need to know

Although not the most sophisticated or detailed smartwatch available—being a hybrid, it is a bit of a dilettante—it combines enough to convince you of its usefulness beyond telling time. 

The step tracker and heart rate monitor provide some insight, but the fact that it isn’t the best fitness tracker (coupled with its overall bulk), which will likely make it a poor substitute for a dedicated monitor if you’re focused on highly accurate tracking. We used the Hybrid HR only for light activity (brisk walks, jogging), but did appreciate that you can set a “Challenge Profile” through the app to establish fitness goals, such as number of steps per day). The information is also easily accessible in the app and even displays alongside a handy calendar for keeping tabs on progress.

The Fossil Latitude Hybrid HR features an alarm clock function, text alerts, and the ability to sync with social media for notifications. You are able to accept text messages and emails, control music, and access a calendar and weather alerts. It’ll also notify you of incoming calls, but there is no speaker or microphone on the watch itself, so you’re not able to accept calls as you would an Apple Watch. When a call comes the watch hands move to their horizontal positions, with text on the screen notifying you of an incoming call, which you can accept or decline with a push of the side button.

It also has standards like a stopwatch. Again, not extremely deep or sophisticated—you won’t be able to sync up contactless payment, for example—but functional enough to do basic jobs.  

So, who is the Fossil Latitude for? 

At the end of the day, the Fossil Latitude Hybrid HR is a great option for those who wouldn’t mind a few bells and whistles, but maybe aren’t ready to dive into a full smartwatch. Overall, it’s a nice-looking timepiece first and foremost, with a few added functions, like the step tracker and heart rate monitor, etc., that may not be necessary for all folks. Hardcore fitness enthusiasts who want to track and accumulate data might find this Fossil smartwatch too bulky for use during exercise, and too slight when it comes to numbers and measurements. People who like the look and feel of a traditional Fossil watch, however, will appreciate the overall simplicity of the user experience. Weight is a factor, however: It’s not the kind of wearable that blends in and you almost forget it’s there. Overall, though, the Fossil Latitude Hybrid HR is very well-constructed and feels likely to survive as one’s everyday watch for a good long while.

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Best budget smartwatches of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-budget-smartwatch/ Tue, 25 May 2021 21:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=366696
best budget smartwatch
Ketut Subiyanto, Pexels

With models for every lifestyle, the best budget smartwatch tracks more than it lacks.

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best budget smartwatch
Ketut Subiyanto, Pexels

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A TEACHER PET blue little tikes smartwatch Little Tikes Tobi Robot Smartwatch
SEE IT

A handy learning tool disguised as a digital pet.

A MONSTER DEAL Best budget: VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3 VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3
SEE IT

Fun features without the high price tag make this smartwatch a smart buy.

KEEP KIDS ON TRACK Best health tracker: Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3 Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3
SEE IT

A stylish activity monitor that counts sheep, strides, and strokes.

This spring, Apple Watches reached some of their lowest prices ever on Amazon. A likely culprit? Competition. A lot of shoppers are realizing that the best budget smartwatch could be just as useful as a more expensive model—if they home in on finding one with the features that suit their needs. Whether you’re in the market for the best fitness tracker or a wrist gadget with robust features like GPS, there’s a cheap smartwatch out there for you. From the step-counting Fitbit Inspire 2 to the pint-sized Garmin Vivofit Jr. 2, we’ve rounded up a list of the best budget smartwatch options you can put around your wrist without having to pay in installments.

What to consider when shopping for the best budget smartwatch

The key to picking a smartwatch is focusing on how, where, when, and why you plan to use it. Features, sizes, styles, and uses vary greatly from brand to brand and even from device to device. Before you pull the trigger on a new smartwatch, review precisely how it will fit your specific needs. 

Will you use it as a fitness tracker? 

The best fitness trackers have come a long way since the days of dots measuring your daily step total. Even a cheap fitness tracker can supply data ranging from heart rate to mileage pace, calories burned to distance covered, sleep scores to stress levels. An ideal fitness tracker will be comfortable (silicon bands are common) and waterproof. After all, your activity of choice may be swimming or paddling—many budget fitness trackers are equipped to monitor such exercises—and you need a tracker that can withstand water. 

Do you need advanced features like mobile payments? 

More versatile smartwatches can, of course, track health data, too, but upping the size also gets you a bigger feature set. Are you hoping to use it to control your music? Tap to make a payment? Display your texts? This is all possible in the best budget smartwatches, but they may not all be available in a single device. So make your priority list, and go from there.

Do you want it to work without your phone? 

Just as GPS can help you get anywhere you need to go, budget smartwatches from companies like Garmin are built to monitor your active lifestyle no matter where you wander. Want to listen to a five-hour playlist while on a hike? Additions like onboard storage and GPS let devices work even when there’s no cell tower in sight. 

What device do you want to pair it with? 

Once you’ve narrowed down the style of smartwatch that works for you, make sure it will be compatible with your phone. If you want more detailed health analytics and the ability to receive calls and other alerts, apps are essential complements. Nearly every offering will work with iOS and Android apps, but be sure to check compatibility. 

Will a kid be the main person using it? 

Sometimes a little extra motivation can go a long way, especially with kids. A smartwatch may feel like a toy to them—and, let’s face it, it kind of is—but the included activities just might make them more active. Since kids are still developing their sense of responsibility, shopping for the best cheap smartwatches is a wise move. Even budget smartwatch options can keep track of your kid’s movement—or whereabouts if it’s equipped with GPS. Colorful bands and color screens will also keep your kid happy. 

Do you care how it looks? 

Even when shopping for the best budget smartwatch, you have every right to expect to find something that’s as stylish as it is practical. Colorful band options and metallic trims around the watch face can go a long way toward making even a cheap smartwatch a desirable fashion accessory. But that doesn’t mean your smartwatch won’t have brains, too. 

How much battery life do you need? 

Longevity is the final key. Some watches have replaceable batteries that can last a year. Others have rechargeable cells that can run for several days or even several weeks. If you’re the kind of person who always forgets your USB cord, or who will constantly be running battery-draining apps, factor battery life heavily into your smartwatch buying. 

The best budget smartwatches

The wearable landscape is a crowded place, but deciding what feature is most important to you—from fitness tracking to GPS for backcountry trekking—is the fastest way to winnow the field. Once you identify your No. 1 goal, additional things like killer design or mobile payments are gravy.

Best for fitness buffs: Fitbit Inspire 2

Fitbit

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If seeing your heartrate climb in real-time motivates you to run a little faster, or if reviewing a full report on last night’s sleep encourages you to get to bed a little earlier, the Fitbit Inspire 2 could get you on track to better health. This best budget smartwatch offers challenges and milestone badges on your weekly pursuits of 150 heart-pumping minutes, whether you want to burn those calories in the pool or on the trail.

At night, it’ll measure your light, deep, and REM sleep. It can then assign a score that tells you just how recuperating your slumber was. Call, text, and calendar alerts sent to this Bluetooth-connected, full-featured but cheap fitness tracker mean you don’t have to take a break from work when you’re on the go. And with a lithium-ion battery that lasts 10 days per charge, the Fitbit Inspire 2 maintains as much energy as you do even as it works 24/7 to monitor your heart rate. 

Best for roving offline: Garmin Vivoactive 3

Garmin

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With 15 preloaded sports apps—including running, cycling, yoga, and swimming—and smart notifications when paired with a smartphone app (compatible with iOS 12 or higher and Android 6.0 or higher), the Garmin Vivoactive 3 lets you stay on top of it all. Featuring Garmin Pay for contactless transactions, downloadable apps, thousands of custom watch faces and fields, plus fitness and stress monitoring, the Vivoactive 3 GPS smartwatch is great for the workday and the weekend warrior. There’s also a model sold with onboard music storage for phone-free listening. The watch can even keep an eye on how equipped you are to handle stress based on your VO2 max, heart rate variability, sleep, and recent activity. The battery lasts a week in smartwatch mode. It can last nearly two weeks in GPS mode, which tracks activity details without the need for a phone connection.  

Best for the fashion conscious: Willful Smartwatch 

Willful

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Yes, those attractive people in the gym who somehow look even more attractive when sweating on the treadmill may be annoying. But with the Willful Smartwatch, you can capture a little bit of their mojo. The matte band, in color options like plum, is beautiful. The watch face is sleek, and the smartwatch itself can track nine sports, including mountaineering and dynamic cycling. This IP68-rated watch can survive being submerged in up to a meter of water for 30 minutes. Plus it’s dust-tight. Built-in sensors automatically track your heart rate, and it can monitor everything you want to know about your workout. That includes everything from calories burned to miles run. Pair the watch with a smartphone app (compatible with iOS 8.0 and higher and Android 4.4 and higher), and you can keep tabs on incoming calls, monitor social media alerts, and switch up the music in your earbuds.  

Best for most situations: Amazfit Bip U Pro

Amazfit

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No, it’s not an Apple Watch. But you might fool your friends if they don’t look too closely. You can certainly awe them with the watch’s ability to track dozens of sports—from rowing to rope skipping to cricket. And as a GPS smartwatch, you can retrace your jogging route. You can also use the watch to set alerts, track your sleep, and even talk to Alexa, which is built in. If you mistakenly ask for Siri, we’ll understand.  

Best for kids: Garmin Vivofit Jr. 2

Garmin

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Your kids are likely to love the customizable color screen and Disney themes. You’ll enjoy the ability to set reminders for chores and homework. And you’ll both like how the smartwatch encourages activity: Achieve movement goals, and the wearer unlocks new Disney-themed adventures and games. The Garmin Vivofit Jr. 2, compatible with iOS 12 and higher and Android 6.0 and higher, has a replaceable battery that can last a year. 

FAQs

Q: Are cheap smartwatches worth it? 

The best cheap smartwatches are definitely worth it. They don’t, however, typically come packed with quite the same array of features. For instance, it’s hard to find a budget smartwatch equipped with a microphone to answer a call. But if you’re looking for something that will track your activity and keep you alerted to messages coming in, a budget smartwatch can more than deliver.

Q: Which brand of smartwatch is best? 

It’s hard to pin down exactly which brand of smartwatch is best. If you’re after a top-of-line fitness tracker, Fitbit is hard to beat, while Garmin can offer great versatility. Meanwhile, Amazfit is pumping out powerful watches that look and act like more expensive counterparts. At the end of the day, finding the best budget smartwatch for you is about finding the watch that has the features you will find most helpful. 

Q: What is the best smartwatch under $100?

Amazingly, there are a lot of great smartwatch options for under $100. But if pressed to choose one, we’d have to say the AmazFit Bip is pretty, well, amazing—especially for the cost. With more than 60 sport modes; notifications from calls, texts, and other apps; and the ability to monitor health details like blood oxygen levels, it really rises to the top.

Related: Feed that smartwatch a healthy amount of data with one of the best home gyms.

The final word on shopping for the best budget smartwatch

Finding the best budget smartwatch is really a style choice. Are you looking for a smartwatch that does it all—from health monitoring to email alerts? Or are you really focused on fitness? Once you know whether you are in the market for a cheap fitness tracker or the best cheap smartwatch, you can look for the features that matter. Battery life and phone compatibility are key, but also don’t neglect what’s going to make you happy. Whether a GPS smartwatch is more your speed or listening to music is more your jam will determine the kinds of features you need to prioritize when shopping for the best budget smartwatch. 

The post Best budget smartwatches of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Pack in more savings before it’s time to go back to school thanks to Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/amazon-backpack-deal/ Fri, 22 Jul 2022 15:45:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=457733
Wearables photo
Amanda Reed

Get these backpack deals now before you realize the summer’s over.

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Wearables photo
Amanda Reed

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The sun is hot, the pool is cool, so you know what that means: It’s almost time to go back to school. And your little one can’t fill their head with knowledge without a stylish vessel to fill with their books, pens, and snacks. Enter the Champion Momentum backpack, available as low as $30 (depending on color), which is 40 percent off its $50 list price.

Champion

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This Champion features a front zipper pocket for items that need to be in reach, like pencils or keys, and an internal organizer for papers and binders. There’s even a laptop sleeve for writing papers on the go. A side water bottle pocket means you don’t have to dig for hydration—we like to carry the YETI Rambler water bottle, which is 10 percent off and comes in 22 different colorways. This backpack comes in six stylish colorways and patterns to suit your vibe. If this one doesn’t tickle your fancy, check out our list of the best backpacks for school. And no back-to-school get-up is complete without a lunch box—we dig this one, which opens from the top and is extra roomy for extra snacks. 

Still debating one strap or two? Here are some more backpacks we love on sale, so snag these deals before the pool membership runs out:

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Save $200 when you reserve the newest gen of Samsung Galaxy gear https://www.popsci.com/gear/samsung-galaxy-reserve-deal/ Wed, 20 Jul 2022 15:45:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=457362
The last gen of Samsung tech on a white and blue background
Looking to explore a new Galaxy? Reserve the next generation of this Samsung tech now. Amanda Reed

Pre-order Samsung's new smartphone, earbuds, and watch before they're even announced.

The post Save $200 when you reserve the newest gen of Samsung Galaxy gear appeared first on Popular Science.

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The last gen of Samsung tech on a white and blue background
Looking to explore a new Galaxy? Reserve the next generation of this Samsung tech now. Amanda Reed

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

The latest generation of Samsung Galaxy smartphone, Galaxy Watch, and Galaxy Buds are coming in the next few weeks. And, you get a $200 Samsung credit if you reserve all three. We have seen this kind of deal from Samsung before and, for a die-hard Galaxy user, it can be very appealing. 

Although it’s unclear exactly what the newest Samsung Galaxy tech will offer, we’re big fans of the current models for their aesthetics, multitasking capabilities, and more. The preorder page teases “A new way to selfie” and “the next small thing is coming,”  all of which will most likely be unveiled at the company’s Galaxy Unpacked event August 10.

Expect $100 of Samsung credit by reserving the next Galaxy smartphone, $50 by reserving the next Galaxy Watch, and $30 for the next pair of Galaxy Buds if you don’t want to reserve all three. Samsung is also advertising a “commitment-free” reservation—most likely the choice of not having to buy if you’d like to get some more wear out of your current Samsung devices. 

You’ll also unlock the highest online trade-in values for your current Samsung devices and get access to exclusive colors only available on Samsung.com. While it’s certainly unusual to preorder devices before they’re even announced, it could make sense for dedicated Samsung fans. Supply chain issues have made availability uncertain and this is a way to get in early. Plus, if you’re already planning on buying the latest and greatest once it drops, you might as well save some money in the process.   

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Why it’s worth carrying more than one gadget https://www.popsci.com/why-you-should-carry-multiple-gadgets/ Tue, 09 Apr 2019 10:20:37 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/why-you-should-carry-multiple-gadgets/
A person sitting outside during the summer, with their feet up on a metal fence, reading a book on an e-reader.
Maybe it's a little easier for you to kick back and relax with an e-reader instead of a phone. Perfecto Capucine / Unsplash

Your phone can do everything... but should it?

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A person sitting outside during the summer, with their feet up on a metal fence, reading a book on an e-reader.
Maybe it's a little easier for you to kick back and relax with an e-reader instead of a phone. Perfecto Capucine / Unsplash

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This story has been updated. It was originally published on May 16, 2019.

The rise of the smartphone has cut down the number of gadgets we need to carry with us. Most people see no reason to weigh themselves down with gear when one device can be a camera, audio recorder, e-reader, digital music player, document scanner, and much more.

This versatility means less stuff in our pockets and bags, but there’s a case to be made for not using your phone for everything—at least not all the time.

Digital cameras can snap better photos

A digital camera hanging around the neck of a person wearing a red shirt.
An actual digital camera can get you better shots and at least help you look like you know what you’re doing. Mario Calvo / Unsplash

Smartphones have undoubtedly revolutionized photography. With cameras in nearly everyone’s hands, we’re now documenting and sharing much more of our lives than ever before. From social media to breaking news, phone photography has changed the game.

It’s fair to say phones have eaten up the cheap compact camera market, but the jump in quality from a phone to a pro-level DSLR camera is still a significant one, even as mobile cameras continue to get better.

Control over lenses, particularly zoom levels, is a big factor. Even with top smartphones now finding ways to offer 5x optical zoom, an actual camera can go way, way beyond that and get you much closer to the action.

Tweaking the amount of light that hits a camera’s sensors is also crucial for getting the best shots, and DSLRs simply give you more control and more options. Most phones don’t offer much in the way of controlling aperture, light sensitivity (ISO), and shutter speed settings, so users can’t easily customize how much light reaches the lens.

For fast-moving action, detailed close-ups, or really low-light situations (especially when a flash is necessary), it’s still worth carrying a standalone digital camera and a lens or two. You’ll find you generally get better shots and can capture them more easily, too.

E-readers can help you read more comfortably

A person in a hammock outside, reading an e-book on a Kindle.
Break out an e-reader if you’re hoping to hang out in a hammock, free from bothersome notifications. Perfecto Capucine / Unsplash

Smartphones function perfectly well as e-readers—there’s even an official Kindle app for iOS and Android that lets you do without an actual Kindle entirely. Both Apple and Google make dedicated e-book apps for their platforms too.

So why bother packing a separate e-reader into your backpack or suitcase? A few arguments can be made for it, not least that the e-ink screen of a Kindle or similar device is much easier on the eyes than the bright display of a phone.

As well as mitigating eye fatigue, dedicated e-readers last much longer between battery charges. Amazon’s most basic Kindle ($90 on Amazon) stays juiced for around four weeks, according to the manufacturer, so you don’t have to worry if you forget to pack its charger.

[Related: How to efficiently charge your devices]

E-readers also have the benefit of doing just one job, so your reading won’t be interrupted by WhatsApp notifications or incoming emails. When you want to unwind on vacation or simply concentrate during a lunch break, that’s a bonus.

Phones are still good for short bursts of reading, of course—and the aforementioned Kindle apps will sync reading positions with a dedicated e-reader—but for serious digital reading it might be better to use a separate device.

Digital music players can keep you immersed in sound

iPods in the Apple Museum.
There’s a case to be made that iPods and their ilk don’t just belong in a museum. AlenaKr / Depositphotos

Remember, the iPod was Apple’s first breakthrough portable gadget before the iPhone came along and scooped up all its sales.

Today, the main reasons you would want to pack a separate digital music player are similar to the arguments for using an e-reader: you’ll be able to listen to your tunes without distractions, and it will give you more battery life while saving your phone’s power cell.

Another factor is portability. Something like the Mighty music player ($120 on Amazon) can sync your Spotify playlists for offline listening and is small enough to strap on your arm or keep around your neck—perfect for that early morning run.

Apple discontinued the iPod Touch earlier this year, but is still offering support and selling them while supplies last. It works with Apple Music, Spotify, and every other music app on iOS, while offering access to a whole host of other apps and games as well.

If you need something cheap and compact that’s not going to light up every five minutes with a new messaging alert, or run out of battery in half a day, a dedicated music player still has appeal, particularly for runners, cyclists, and frequent travelers.

Smartwatches are a little more portable

A man's arm resting on a wooden table, with a smartwatch on his wrist.
Smartwatches keep much of what you need at your fingertips. Luke Chesser / Unsplash

Plenty of us rely on our phones to tell the time and, probably, to wake us up in the morning. If you think about it, though, there’s a compelling argument for using a smartwatch, or even a regular watch, to do the job instead.

For a start, it saves you from having to fish around in your pocket or bag (and then getting distracted by 100 Instagram notifications) every time you just want to know what time it is.

[Related: Trying to use your smartphone less? Get a smartwatch.]

When it comes to exercising, a smartwatch also gives you access to apps like maps and calls, right from your wrist. Alternatively, a smartwatch will let you leave your phone at home, but still take your music with you.

For the outdoor adventurer, higher-end smartwatches can provide accurate directions to and from your destination long after your phone’s battery has died. And once it’s time to hit the hay, smartwatches can track your sleep without being intrusive, too.

So, a smartwatch can be a useful extension of, and in some cases, a complete replacement for, a smartphone. You’ve got plenty to pick from as well, including the Apple Watch Series 7 ($400 and up from Apple), and the Garmin Instinct ($175 from Amazon).

Digital radios keep the party going, but don’t drain your phone

A person reclining in a white room with a portable radio by their feet.
You don’t have to get a radio this big, but maybe you want that retro look. Eric Nopanen / Unsplash

You might be used to streaming radio stations through your phone, but a pocket digital radio might be worth taking along in some situations.

First up: battery life. These small radios will last for hours between charges, so your smartphone can take a breather or spend its precious battery on other tasks.

Second: data usage. Even if you’re on a generous cellular plan, you’re going to be using a big chunk of data trying to stream radio stations to your phone. That won’t happen with a dedicated radio, and you’re more likely to get a signal in crowded spots, too.

If you want to crank out the tunes at a beach or picnic without using your phone’s data or battery, you can spring for a bigger portable radio. Sure, it’ll mean more bulk when you’re packing, but it might be worth the extra weight.

With good-quality models costing as little as $35 on Amazon and offering Bluetooth connectivity and memory card support (for your MP3s), radios are worth considering as complements to your phone.

Portable gaming systems let you play on the go

A person playing with a Nintendo Switch over a white marble countertop during the day.
Portable gaming systems like the Nintendo Switch can provide that console gaming feeling no matter where you are. Corey Motta / Unsplash

Another type of gadget smartphones have nearly killed off is the portable gaming console, because a phone with a huge selection of games is, effectively, the same thing.

Some portable systems live on, though, and they’re worth taking with you. Most notably, there’s the Nintendo Switch ($300 on Amazon), which gives you a bigger screen and better graphics than a smartphone can offer, and plugs right into your TV when you get home.

Unlike your phone, the Switch has its own controllers, and can offer a better overall gaming experience. As mentioned during the discussion of other gadgets on this list, it will also save you from draining your phone’s battery while gaming.

The explosion of smartphone use has largely scared manufacturers away from portable gaming devices, but older systems like the Sony PlayStation Vita ($285 and up on Amazon) and Nintendo 3DS ($300 and up on Amazon) are still around and worth considering.

Even so, it’s really the Nintendo Switch that’s currently carrying the torch for portable gaming systems. Fans of gaming on the go can only hope its popularity is enough to prompt the development of a few more gadgets just like it.

The post Why it’s worth carrying more than one gadget appeared first on Popular Science.

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Save on Garmin watches and wearables for Prime Day 2022 https://www.popsci.com/gear/garmin-deals-amazon-prime-day-2022/ Tue, 12 Jul 2022 11:11:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=455367
The best Prime Day deals on Garmin watches
Garmin has Prime Day deals for just about everyone who wants to workout. Stan Horaczek

No matter what kind of athlete you are, Prime Day has a Garmin Watch deal for you.

The post Save on Garmin watches and wearables for Prime Day 2022 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best Prime Day deals on Garmin watches
Garmin has Prime Day deals for just about everyone who wants to workout. Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Training and fitness come in many forms and Garmin makes a smartwatch to fit just about all of them. Here on Amazon Prime Day, Garmin has cut the prices on wearable training devices across almost all of its most popular lines. So, whether you’re a die-hard triathlete or someone still in the “couch” phase of the Couch-to-5K program, you’ll want to check out these deals on fitness-oriented wearables.

Garmin offers a ton of different models and the individual lines can be difficult to tell apart, so we have broken this list down by type. We have also included separate links to include different sizes and colors because personal preference comes into play heavily. Whichever one you pick, it can help you track your progress and fitness gains. Or, it can tell you just how elevated your heart rate gets during the finale of The Bachelor. Data is data.

Of course, you could always just get an Apple Watch 7 since those are on sale for their cheapest price ever here on Prime Day. And if you’re testing your new watch in the backcountry, don’t forget a nicely priced portable generator.

Garmin Instinct Solar watch deals

Garmin Instinct Solar Rugged Outdoor Smartwatch with Solar Charging, Flame Red $199 (Was $339)

Garmin

SEE IT

The Instinct Solar is one of the best all-around options in the Garmin lineup. It offers essential fitness features like heart rate and blood-oxygen tracking. It’s absurdly rugged and waterproof down to 100 meters. Built-in software can track exercise in various forms including running, biking, and swimming. Plus, solar tech in the face allows the watch to pull power from the sun and extend the already-excellent battery life. For $199, that’s a ton of features in a very cool-looking device.

Garmin Enduro watch deals

Garmin Enduro GPS Watch with Solar Charging, Carbon Gray Titanium with Black Nylon Band $549 (Was $749)

Garmin

SEE IT

This super-high-end sports watch retails for $899, which makes the $549 sale price even more impressive. Garmin designed this device for racers. The buttons, case, and bezel all rely on coated titanium construction for strength while keeping the overall weight and form factor down. The tracking tech includes typical features like heart rate monitoring and blood-oxygen levels. But, the analytics go well beyond the typical training tools. It keeps track of your recovery and compares your performance to overall trail conditions. If you’re a serious racer (or you aspire to that status), this is the watch you want and Prime Day is a very solid time to get it.

Garmin Fenix watch deals

Garmin Fenix 6S Pro GPS Watch, Rose Gold with White Band $399.99 (Was $589)

Garmin

SEE IT

The Fenix lineup offers athletes robust training tools like heart rate and pulse-ox monitor in a package that doesn’t look out of place in non-athletic settings. The relatively understated designs work with a business suit or a sweat suit. You could also probably wear them with other types of suits like a hot dog suit or a suit of armor. In short: It’s a versatile watch and these are great deals.

Garmin Vivoactive watch deals

Garmin Vivoactive 4 GPS Smartwatch, Black $188 (Was $249)

Garmin

SEE IT

This is perhaps the most traditional smartwatch on the list of deals. Its spartan design might obscure its serious fitness chops at first glance. But, under the slick, slim exterior, you’ll find everything you’d expect from a real training watch. It tracks heart rate, blood oxygen, workouts, sleep, and everything else that you’ve been ignoring as you binge the gritty-but-heartwarming chef-oriented drama, The Bear on FX (which is really excellent, FYI).

Garmin Forerunner watch deals

Garmin Forerunner 245 Music, GPS Running Smartwatch, Aqua $239 (Was $279)

Garmin

SEE IT

The Forerunner line is what most people picture when they think of Garmin fitness watches. It’s a straight up-the-middle option meant for athletes and serious workout folks. It’s rugged but offers a solid mix of dedicated smartwatch features, including support for popular music streaming apps like Amazon Music and Spotify. Options in this line go from beginner-oriented devices to serious training wearables, so it has something for everyone.

Garmin Venu watch deals

Garmin Venu 2S, GPS Smartwatch, Silver Bezel with Light Gray Case and Silicone Band $269 (Was $399)

Garmin

SEE IT

Like the Vivoactive, the Venu fits more into a traditional smartwatch category. It sports a thin bezel and a low profile that won’t stand out when you’re wearing it outside of the gym. It can store up to 650 songs directly on the watch, so you can go and work out while your phone sits somewhere else. It also includes Garmin Pay, which helps if you hate having your phone with you on a run.

If you’re looking for other Prime Day deals, follow us over on the PopSci Goods Twitter page. Bring money.

More Amazon Prime Day deals

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Check out these Bose audio Prime Day 2022 deals https://www.popsci.com/gear/bose-amazon-prime-day-2022/ Tue, 12 Jul 2022 11:26:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=455297
Amazon Prime Day Bose deals header image
Tony Ware

If you’re going up against environmental noise, you wanna be throwin’ Bose …

The post Check out these Bose audio Prime Day 2022 deals appeared first on Popular Science.

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Amazon Prime Day Bose deals header image
Tony Ware

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Bose headphones have long been known for their superior application of noise cancellation technology without sacrificing a natural sound. At the same time, they have been known for their high price. The headphones of choice for many frequency travelers, Bose is business-class when it comes to cutting out the background. And if you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to try the company’s balance of comfort and clarity, Amazon Prime Day is the day.

Cancel the noise and the cost with these Bose deals: 

Bose Noise-Cancelling Headphones 700 Over-Ear, Wireless Bluetooth Headphones $269 (Was $379)

Bose

SEE IT

Sleek, with a smooth, matte finish that our reviewer once described as “what I’d imagine a dolphin feels like when it’s dry,” the Bose Headphones 700 are an impressive piece of audio engineering both outside and inside. Available in Silver Luxe or Triple Black, the Headphones 700 has responsive touch gesture controls on the outside of the earcup. But it’s really the 10 selectable levels of active noise reduction that make this headphone stand out because of what it can filter out. The same mics that help make that happen assure you that phone calls are crisp and clear. And if you have the Bose Smart Soundbar 700, these headphones pair perfectly for a punchy viewing experience during quiet hours. The Headphones 700 are an executive’s dream available at a middle-management price during Prime Day.

Bose QuietComfort Noise-Cancelling True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds $179 (Was $279)

Bose

SEE IT

Looking for a little pocket of serenity? Well, how about a little serenity in your pocket? With these Bose QuietComfort TWS Bluetooth earbuds, you can transport transportive. Available in Soapstone or Triple Black, the QuietComfort earbuds use industrial-strength Bose noise reduction technology to effectively filter out environmental distractions and actively EQ audio so that you get an optimal listening/calling experience no matter where you are. And all in a compact, weather- and sweat-resistant body with handy touch controls.

We’ve cut through the static to find you these other amazing Bose buys:

All prices are subject to change.

More Amazon Prime Day deals

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Jump on Amazon’s AirPods Prime Day deals before they sell out https://www.popsci.com/gear/airpods-amazon-prime-day-2022/ Tue, 12 Jul 2022 10:44:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=455322
Amazon Prime Day Apple AirPods deals header image
Tony Ware

If you're Team Apple, you're going to want these earbuds to be the first draft pick on your Prime Day deals roster.

The post Jump on Amazon’s AirPods Prime Day deals before they sell out appeared first on Popular Science.

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Amazon Prime Day Apple AirPods deals header image
Tony Ware

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

If you’re an iPhone user, you know why you’re here: You want the most seamless user experience possible when it comes to on-the-go audio. You want a low-profile, fully featured experience. And in the case of the AirPods Pro, you want top-notch noise cancellation, a premium transparency mode, and access to the latest immersive experiences, like Apple Music spatial audio. Know what’s better than having it all? Having it all for less. If a sales price is the Apple of your eye, grab these Amazon Prime Day discounts before they’re gone.

Apple AirPods Pro $169.99 (Was $199.98)

Bose

SEE IT

There are plenty of contenders in the space when it comes to picking the best wireless earbuds, but for dedicated iPhone and Apple users, few compare to the sound quality and simplicity of AirPods. The Apple AirPods Pro features Active Noise Cancellation, transparency mode, adaptive EQ, spatial audio, and a wireless charging case. While the AirPods Pro is undoubtedly an upgrade over their standard Apple predecessor, they also have a higher price tag that might make you pause before buying. Now, during Amazon Prime Day, the AirPods Pro is on sale for the same price as the AirPods 3rd Gen., so act fast to get all the extra listening, calling, and user interface features of the Pros—from dual beamforming microphones to a newly designed vent system for pressure equalization that improves audio quality—without spending extra for them.

Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) $89.99 (Was $119.98)

Bose

SEE IT

Apple didn’t invent true wireless earbuds, but the Apple AirPods helped define them. They quickly became a favorite among music listeners for their reliable tech, crisp sound, and long-lasting battery life. If, however, with so many options on the market you’ve hesitated to drop over $100 on this Apple product in the past, now is the time to strike while this limited-time Amazon Prime Day deal is hot. While the second-generation AirPods may be “last year’s model,” the earbuds retain their high demand and popularity and are still very much worth the investment. They boast over 440,000 ratings that credit their reliable design, easy set-up with and switching between Apple devices, 24-hour battery life (with charging case), and seamless connection to Siri for easy controls. Whether you’re upgrading from other wireless earbuds or snagging them as a holiday gift, this sale makes a pair of Apple AirPods a much more affordable option for Bluetooth ‘buds.

All prices are subject to change.

Looking for other Apple accessories to pair (both stylistically and technologically) with new AirPods? Then check out the discounts on Apple Watch Series 7 models.

More Amazon Prime Day deals

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Amazon is blowing out its Echo smart speakers for Prime Day 2022 https://www.popsci.com/gear/echo-deals-amazon-prime-day-2022/ Tue, 12 Jul 2022 11:12:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=455566
Amazon Echo products against a blue and pink gradient background.
Amanda Reed

Listen to the sweet sound of savings with this Prime Day deal.

The post Amazon is blowing out its Echo smart speakers for Prime Day 2022 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Amazon Echo products against a blue and pink gradient background.
Amanda Reed

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Amazon Echo smart speakers combine high-quality audio with the handy help of Alexa. Need to turn off your smart lights? Ready to listen to Steely Dan’s entire discography while cooking in the kitchen? Alexa can make it happen and even tell you a joke while you’re at it. Now, the Amazon Echo doesn’t just encompass speakers—they also take the form of glasses, earbuds, and even an in-car assistant. All Echo devices keep your information private for ultimate security and peace of mind to make your life even easier. 

Here are the Echo deals that we’re tuning in to on Prime Day:

Echo Frames (2nd Gen) $119.99 (Was $269.99)

Amazon

SEE IT

Peer into the future with the Echo Frames, which allow you to make calls, listen to podcasts or Audible books, set reminders, add to your to-do lists, get the news, or control your smart home all using your voice. These aren’t your regular smart glasses. For podcasts, music, or audio books, Echo Frames direct sound to your ears while minimizing what others around you can hear by using open-ear audio with Auto Volume, which also adjusts the volume based on the noise level of your surrounding apartment. A VIP filter allows you to customize which incoming notifications you want to receive, with a Top Contact option to call your top VIP contact with a press of a touchpad. Echo Frames are lightweight, IPX4 splash-resistant for water and sweat and are available in prescription-ready frames, polarized sunglass lenses with UV400 protection, or blue light filtering lenses. It even supports Siri and Google Assistant for effortless voice assistant support.  

Echo Link Amp $209.99 (Was $299.99)

Amazon

SEE IT

The Echo Link Amp includes a built-in 60W x 2-channel amplifier, high-fidelity music streaming, and Alexa capabilities for putting on some hot tunes with ease. You can control music and playback on the Echo using voice control or using the Alexa app. Connect the Echo Link amp to existing speakers or group it with support Echo devices to play hi-fidelity audio throughout your home. The Echo Link Amp includes multiple digital and analog inputs and outputs for compatibility with your existing stereo equipment. You can also cast to one or more Echo speakers from a line-in input, supporting devices like an preamp-equipped turntable or CD player.

Echo Show 15 $179.99 (Was $249.99)

Amazon

SEE IT

The Echo Show 15 combines the power of Alexa with the convenience of a 15.6-inch Full HD screen. Keep the family organized with Alexa-powered to-do and shopping lists and assigned reminders, and take a group selfie with the 5 MP camera. Keep your smart devices organized on the home screen and see all compatible devices on one dashboard. Watch Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, slingTV, and more while you cook, or stream music, podcasts, and audiobooks with Amazon Music, Spotify, and Audible. You can also pair your Echo Show 15 with other compatible Echo devices for a fuller sound and thorough voice assistant coverage in your home. A Photo Frame feature allows you to use your Echo Show 15 to show photos from Amazon Photos or Facebook. Family members can also create personal profiles and use visual ID and voice ID to see their specific appointments, reminders, and recently played music to keep everyone organized.

Here are some more Echo deals that are resounding in our souls:

More Amazon prime Day deals

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4 tools to help you care for loved ones remotely https://www.popsci.com/diy/tech-gadgets-for-remote-caretakers/ Thu, 07 Jul 2022 18:11:56 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=454920
An elderly man and woman sitting on a bench on a scenic overlook in some mountains on a sunny, cloudless day.
Sometimes you want to check in but you can't physically be with your loved one. Matt Bennett / Unsplash

You can use technology to find out what elderly relatives or sick friends are up to.

The post 4 tools to help you care for loved ones remotely appeared first on Popular Science.

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An elderly man and woman sitting on a bench on a scenic overlook in some mountains on a sunny, cloudless day.
Sometimes you want to check in but you can't physically be with your loved one. Matt Bennett / Unsplash

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Technology has transformed the way we communicate with each other, making it possible to chat with someone on the other side of the world in seconds, after just a few taps on a smartphone or a laptop.

This also means we can check in on people even when we can’t physically be with them, including elderly relatives and friends who are unwell. Even if you’re miles apart, you can care for someone remotely using your choice of gadgets.

Which approach is best depends on what you and the other person are most comfortable with, but there’s plenty of choice—from wearables that detect serious falls to smart devices that let you know if someone else is feeling unwell.

Google Nest Hub Max

The benefit of the Google Nest Hub Max—as opposed to, say, the Google Nest Mini—is that it has a 10-inch touchscreen display that’s perfect for video calls. Add in the stereo speakers, the 6.5-megapixel camera, and the two far-field microphones, and you’ve got everything you need to see and hear the person you want to keep in touch with.

You can use Google Duo, Google Meet, or Zoom with the Nest Hub Max, so you’re not just limited to one video-calling platform, and for your friend or relative who has the device in their home, taking the call is as simple as tapping Answer on the screen. If they want to call you, they can just say: “Hey Google, video call…” followed by your name.

[Related: How to keep your video calls private]

On your end, you can use whatever technology you want to get on Google Duo, Google Meet, or Zoom: a phone, laptop, your own Nest Hub Max—whatever. There are, of course, many other ways to make video calls, from FaceTime to the Portal box that Meta manufactures, but the Nest Hub Max is one of the most straightforward options from both a hardware and software perspective.

Amazon Alexa Together

Amazon Echo Show smart displays can also make video calls, but if both you and the person you’re looking after have Echo devices in your home, there’s another feature you can make use of: Alexa Together. It enables you to set reminders for your friend or relative, check up on what they’re doing, and get them assistance.

Alexa Together will cost you $20 a month or $200 a year, and a 6-month free trial is available. Sign up on the web, and activation emails will be sent to you and the person you’re caring for. Once you both click the links in those emails, the Echo devices associated with your Amazon accounts will be up and running with Alexa Together, through the smart speakers themselves and the Alexa mobile app for Android and iOS.

You can get alerts when your friend or relative uses Alexa for the first time each day (through a “start my day” command, perhaps), and when no activity is detected on a device for a certain time period. You can set reminders for the other person, have Alexa call you if the other person asks for help, and connect a compatible fall detection service such as the Altumview camera system.

Apple Watch

Speaking of fall detection, that’s something the Apple Watch can do—specifically the Apple Watch SE or the Apple Watch Series 4 or later. From the Apple Watch app on the iPhone, enable fall detection by choosing My Watch, Emergency SOS, and Fall Detection (you may have to set this up for the person you’re looking after).

If the Apple Watch detects a fall, it displays a message on screen asking if the wearer is okay. It also gives them the chance to select one of two options: EMERGENCY SOS and I’m OK. If no arm or body movement is detected for a whole minute, the smartwatch starts a 30-second countdown with an audible alarm before automatically calling emergency services.

[Related: Smartphone settings that could save your life in an emergency]

When the call connects, the Apple Watch plays a message saying that it’s detected a hard fall, together with location coordinates. If the person wearing the Apple Watch is able, they can speak through the watch as well. When the call ends, the smartwatch sends a notification about the fall to the person’s emergency contacts—you can make sure you’re one of them by having them go to Health and Medical ID in the Settings app on their iPhone and adding your details there.

ElliQ

The options we’ve mentioned above are all relatively common gadgets adapted to do remote caregiving, but there are dedicated pieces of hardware built for helping the elderly and sick. One of the best we’ve come across is ElliQ, though it doesn’t come cheap—it’ll set you back $40 a month (or $30 a month if you pay for a whole year up front), and that’s after a $250 enrollment fee.

However, you do get a lot for your money—or rather your friend or relative does. ElliQ works a bit like a smart speaker, engaging its owner in conversation, making suggestions about healthy habits, and providing companionship and interaction. It can play music, read out the news, and report on the weather forecast.

When it comes to checking in remotely, ElliQ enables its user to check in with their loved ones via video calls, audio calls, and text messaging, and can notify specific contacts when they’re feeling unwell or in pain. As a trusted caregiver, ElliQ will provide you with updates on any relevant activity, and allow you to, say, check in on your friend or relative’s daily routines and medication reminders.

The post 4 tools to help you care for loved ones remotely appeared first on Popular Science.

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Celebrate Nomad’s 10th birthday with 30 percent off its entire site https://www.popsci.com/gear/nomad-anniversary-deal/ Thu, 07 Jul 2022 16:45:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=454840
Smartwatches photo

Need stylish Apple device accessories or other tech travel/charging goods? Consider this sweet anniversary deal a gift to yourself.

The post Celebrate Nomad’s 10th birthday with 30 percent off its entire site appeared first on Popular Science.

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Smartwatches photo

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It’s traditional for those celebrating their 10th anniversary to give their partner a gift involving tin or aluminum. And while sleek metals do play a part in many of the brand’s products, modern lifestyle gear designers Nomad has opted to give you the gift of overall savings with 30 percent off its entire site in celebration of its 10th anniversary.

Nomad first entered the phone accessories scene in 2012 with the ChargeCard, a charger the size of a credit card for iPhone 5. You simply had to find a USB port and plug in the compact charger to get juice on-the-go. Although it seems like a silly idea now—there are USB ports lining bar counters and built into nightstands—it was a bit revolutionary in the post-aughts, with the burgeoning company raising more than $150,000 on Kickstarter to bring the charger to life.

Nomad has continued to keep up with technology trends and now sells MagSafe accessories for iPhone, including one of our favorite charging docks, the Base One Max, on sale for $104.95.

Nomad

SEE IT

The Base One Max provides up to 15W of fast-charging speed—provided you have a 30W charging brick—to power your post-iPhone 8 model iPhone, AirPods, or Series 4, 5, 6, or 7 Apple Watch at the same time. It also can charge any Qi wireless charging-compatible devices. The iPhone-certified MagSafe platform is made of metal and glass and features a soft-touch, anti-slip rubber base for peace of mind against accidental slips. Those who love haptics and tactility will enjoy the satisfying “thunk” that happens when your iPhone 12 or 13 snaps into place to charge. To quote ourselves, “it looks and feels more like a centerpiece rather than just another accessory.” If MagSafe charging isn’t your jam, we’re partial to Nomad’s AirTag accessories and leather Modern Band for the Apple Watch. 

The sale excludes Paperlike, OrbitKey, Chipolo, Popl, and Moment products featured on the site. If you want genuine Nomad Goods, however, don’t put off your journey to celebratory savings—this deal ends July 15. 

The post Celebrate Nomad’s 10th birthday with 30 percent off its entire site appeared first on Popular Science.

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How to connect headphones to your smartwatch https://www.popsci.com/diy/connect-bluetooth-headphones-to-smartwatch/ Tue, 05 Jul 2022 14:17:57 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=454496
Apple watch on keyboard with airpods beside
Who needs a phone anyway?. Alexandru Tabusca / Unsplash

Enjoy music, podcasts, and audiobooks on the go.

The post How to connect headphones to your smartwatch appeared first on Popular Science.

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Apple watch on keyboard with airpods beside
Who needs a phone anyway?. Alexandru Tabusca / Unsplash

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Smartwatches continue to improve, and many of the newest models can play music, podcasts, and audiobooks without any help from a connected smartphone. That means you can easily leave your phone behind for a morning jog or afternoon gym session.

You do, however, need a way to listen to this audio, which is where—you guessed it—a pair of headphones come in. Connecting headphones to your smartwatch will only take a few minutes, too—just about any Bluetooth-enabled pair should do.

Apple Watch

If you’ve previously set up a pair of AirPods to work with your iPhone—which is as easy as opening the AirPods case near your smartphone—they will automatically work with an Apple Watch connected to the same phone. Just load up the app you want to listen to on your wrist and press play.

You can also connect any pair of Bluetooth headphones to your Apple Watch from the smartwatch itself. First, check the instructions that came with your headphones (or run a quick web search) to find out how to put them in pairing mode. Typically, you’ll have to press and hold a particular button.

[Related: Apple Watch comparison: Which one is right for you?]

Next, open the Settings app on watchOS, tap Bluetooth, and wait for your headphones to appear. Select the headphones when they show up on the Watch’s screen, and they’ll connect. To choose between different pairs of headphones while listening to audio, touch and hold the bottom of the watch screen, swipe up to open the Control Center, and tap the small audio output icon (an arrow pointing up into concentric rings).

You can manage which music tracks and other audio files are stored on your Apple Watch through the equivalent apps on your iPhone. With Spotify for iOS, for example, if an Apple Watch is connected, you’ll see a Download to Apple Watch option when you tap the three dots on an individual playlist screen.

Wear OS device

The process of connecting headphones to Wear OS smartwatches can vary slightly depending on the watch manufacturer, but it’s broadly similar across devices. We’ll describe the process for the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, but you shouldn’t see too many differences if you’re using a different Wear OS watch.

You’ll need a pair of Bluetooth headphones, and you’ll also need to get them into pairing mode—check the instructions that came with them or look online if you’re unsure how to do this. Then, open the Settings app on your watch and choose Connections, followed by Bluetooth. Tap the headphones you want to connect to when they appear on the screen.

You can get to the same connection menu by swiping down from the top of the screen and then swiping left to get to the quick settings panel. Once there, tap the headphone icon to make the connection. After the headphones connect, you can tap the cog icon next to them on the Bluetooth screen to select them for Media audio (or to Unpair them).

To specify which songs and other audio files are actually stored on your wrist, head to the app you want to use for playback. If you’re using  YouTube Music for Wear OS, for example, select any song or playlist to see the little download icon (a downward arrow). Tap this to save the song or playlist to your smartwatch.

Fitbit

Every Fitbit Sense or Fitbit Versa smartwatch (except for the Fitbit Versa Lite) can pipe audio through Bluetooth headphones, but you can’t link up any of the Fitbit fitness trackers. The connection process varies depending on which watch you’re using, although it always starts by getting your headphones into pairing mode (you’ll find instructions on the web or bundled with your headphones).

If you’re using an older Fitbit Ionic, Fitbit Versa 1, or Fitbit Versa 2 smartwatch, open the Settings app. Select Bluetooth, then Audio Device to start searching for nearby devices. Once your Fitbit discovers your headphones, select them from the list, and you’ll see a check mark next to them when they link up.

On the newer Fitbit Versa 2 and Fitbit Versa 3 devices, you’ll need to open the Settings app and then pick Vibration & audio, Bluetooth, and Manage devices. Next, swipe up from the bottom of the screen to start a search for new devices. Again, your headphones should show up so you can select them, and a check mark will appear by their name when they’ve linked to your watch.

Your Fitbit smartwatch can play audio through the Spotify, Deezer, and Pandora apps, and you can manage these from your connected smartphone. You can also add music and podcast files to your watch to play through Fitbit’s own Music app on your wrist—download the Fitbit Connect app for Windows or macOS and follow the instructions to do so.

Garmin

Garmin makes plenty of smartwatches with different designs and interfaces, so we can’t cover every variation here, but you should still be able to find the necessary settings without too much trouble if we don’t cover your particular watch here. First, get your Bluetooth headphones powered on and in pairing mode: typically by pressing a button, but if you’re unsure check the web (or in the headphones box) for instructions.

If you’re using a Garmin Vivoactive smartwatch, press and hold the B button (lower right), then tap the settings cog icon and choose Music, Headphones, and Add New. For a Forerunner smartwatch, press and hold the Up button (on the left), then select Music, Headphones, and Add New.

[Related: The best Garmin smartwatch]

For Gamin Fenix and Garmin Epix smartwatches, the instructions you’ll need to follow are the same: press and hold the Menu button (on the left), then pick Music, Headphones, and Add New. Whichever watch you’re working with, your headphones should appear on screen where you can then select them.

The way you load up and listen to audio on Garmin smartwatches varies between devices too, but it’s fairly straightforward on all of them. Depending on the watch model you’ve got, you can set up connections to the Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer, and iHeartRadio apps on your phone, and you can also add your own audio files from a computer via the Garmin Express app for Windows or macOS.

The post How to connect headphones to your smartwatch appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best hearing aids in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-hearing-aids/ Wed, 22 Jun 2022 21:46:23 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=451392
The best hearing aids
Costco

These medical devices can make a huge difference in a person’s life.

The post Best hearing aids in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best hearing aids
Costco

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Best direct-to-consumer package Lively 2 Pro Lively 2 Pro
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An accessible, advanced online option with all the support of an audiologist’s clinic.

Audiologist’s pick Oticon More Oticon More
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Versatile, state-of-the-art devices that can be easily customized to fit your needs.

Most affordable direct-to-consumer option Lexie Lumen Lexi Lumen
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Accessible and affordable, these devices boast high-quality technology and are ultra user-friendly.

Hearing aids are medical devices designed to help people with hearing loss hear better by amplifying sound. As medical devices, they are approved and regulated in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration. According to the U.S. National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, one in eight people aged 12 and older in the U.S. has some form of hearing loss, and it is especially common in older people. Despite this, less than 30% of people over 70 who might benefit from the best hearing aids have actually tried using them. Even fewer people between 60 and 69 try them.

In the past, hearing aids simply amplified sound. But most modern aids are essentially tiny computers, amplifying sounds you might want to focus on while minimizing background noise. They can also be customized to amplify different frequencies of sound depending on your hearing loss. Audiologists, medical professionals who specialize in treating hearing loss and fitting people with hearing aids, can often help you find and customize your device to work the best for you. Here are some of the best hearing aids recommended by experts and people with hearing loss.

How we chose the best hearing aids

To learn general information about hearing aids and to learn about which product to consider, we spoke with five audiologists and heard from a sixth over email. We considered top-reviewed products endorsed by audiologists, including products made by each of the six major manufacturers in the United States. Preference was given to products and brands suggested or commonly distributed by the experts we spoke with. We considered patient follow-up with audiologists to be especially important, and also considered battery life, cost, Bluetooth compatibility, and general accessibility.

Because of the huge variety and general high quality of many FDA-approved hearing aids, there are few scientific studies that compare more than two or three hearing aids to each other. Because of this, we relied strongly on customer reviews and recommendations from experts. Finally, many high-quality aids exist, and aids not included in this list are not necessarily of bad quality. When consulting with an audiologist, along with researching what you want in a device, you should always consider what they recommend would work best for you. 

Things to consider before buying hearing aids

First things first, if you think you might need hearing aids, you should first take a hearing test, preferably at a doctor’s office. The test will measure how well you can hear at a range of different pitches (frequencies). Your doctor will also make sure any hearing problems you have aren’t due to a medical condition or injury that could be treated, such as an ear infection, earwax buildup, or injury to the eardrum. Then your doctor may refer you to an audiologist.

Check your insurance

Usually, insurance will not cover a visit to an audiologist without a referral from a physician, though many types of health insurance will cover the cost of aids once you get a referral. Patients should check with their insurance company to be sure of their policy. Medicare will not cover hearing aids, though Medicaid will in many cases, and in all cases for children. 

Pick a style

There are two main styles of hearing aids: in the ear (ITE) and behind the ear (BTE). Within these, there are different subtypes and variations. Some are barely visible—such as “completely in canal” (that is, the ear canal) styles—while “half shell” and “full shell” devices fill larger portions of the ears. BTE styles, as the name would indicate, attach behind the ear, and can be barely noticeable or quite substantial.

The most common type of hearing aid is the receiver-in-ear (RIC) device. These have components that go behind the ear with a very thin wire attached to a tiny speaker that goes in the ear canal. RIC devices don’t block the ear, allowing a person to hear sounds that they can still detect normally. Other styles work well for different severities of hearing loss. 

Some smaller in-ear aids might work well for mild or moderate hearing loss, while a larger BTI type might be better with severe or profound hearing loss. RIC aid styles for people with a wide range of hearing loss, from mild to profound. An audiologist can help you choose a style that will work for you.

Direct-to-consumer options

Some companies allow you to skip the step of referral to an audiologist and buy hearing aids directly. These can be more accessible to people and can decrease the cost but many audiologists caution again this approach, especially if there is minimal involvement from audiologists to help you select, customize, and learn to use and maintain your device. “If nothing else, please come get your hearing tested so that you can see what your baseline is and see what your needs are,” said Dr. Rachel Smith, a clinical associate professor of audiology at the University of Rhode Island.

The best hearing aids: Reviews & Recommendations

Best direct-to-consumer package: Lively 2 Pro

listen lively

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Why it made the cut: Lively offers a high-quality product, including three years of virtual check-ups with audiologists as part of its package and a three-year warranty, without the hassle of going through an audiologist.

Specs

  • Receiver-in-canal style
  • 30-hour battery life, rechargeable
  • For mild to moderately severe hearing loss

Pros

  • No need to go through a doctor and/or audiologist
  • Virtual audiology care is convenient and potentially more affordable
  • Technology is on par with leading hearing aids provided by audiologists
  •  Relatively affordable when compared to devices you might get through an audiologist

Cons

  • Not the most affordable, especially compared to other direct-to-consumer options
  • Virtual setup and check-ins may be more difficult for some than in-person care

According to experts, working with a clinician is one of the keys to getting a hearing aid that works well for you. With Lively’s packages, you can avoid the hassle of going through a doctor and audiologist without sacrificing the customization and support that audiologists provide to patients. Lively also uses an online hearing test to establish each patient’s level of hearing loss. Plus, Lively’s products are manufactured by ReSound, whose state-of-the-art devices are also available through in-person audiologists.

“With Lively, you’re gonna feel like you have as much care as you would through a regular audiologist’s clinic,” said Dr. Morgan Oktela Fuentes, an audiologist at the University of South Florida Department of Otolaryngology.

The Lively 2 Pro is Lively’s most advanced device, featuring speech clarity and noise reduction technology, providing natural-seeming sound in even noisy environments. It also features Bluetooth compatibility, easily connecting to calls and music, including hands-free calling for the iPhone 11 and newer. The devices are rechargeable, with 30 hours of battery life after each charge in the included charging case, and feature a Music Mode, designed to be used when listening to live music. The hearing aids are controlled using Lively’s free mobile app and come in a variety of colors.

Audiologist’s pick: Oticon More

Oticon

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Specs

  • Behind the ear or Receiver in the ear style
  • 24-hour battery life, disposable or rechargeable
  • For mild to severe hearing loss

Pros

  • Powerful, advanced sound processing technology
  • Available in various styles and battery types
  • Highly customizable by an audiologist
  • Bluetooth compatibility with direct calling for some devices

Cons

  • Usually only available through an audiologist
  • If purchased online, customization may not be as good
  • Expensive (though may be covered by insurance)

Though there are numerous high-quality hearing aid manufacturers and products that audiologists offer at their clinics, multiple audiologists we spoke with mentioned that Oticon products were a popular choice and that patients generally seemed satisfied with them. The Oticon More is the company’s flagship product, with technology designed to mimic the way the brain processes sound, including using a Deep Neural Network, a type of machine learning, built into the device’s software. There are numerous ways that an audiologist can customize each of the three levels of the Oticon More, including different settings for speech clarity and noise suppression.

The easiest way to get the Oticon More is through an audiologist. However, there are ways of going through this process online. MySecondEar, for instance, is an online audiology service where you can get devices usually reserved for the clinic by submitting hearing test results and going through an online consultation process. The service’s audiologist will have the hearing aids shipped directly to you, preset based on your hearing test. You can have the settings readjusted in virtual follow-up appointments. Other websites offer similar services.

Like many hearing aids, Oticon More devices cost thousands of dollars, though they are still more affordable than some. Because they are usually sold by an audiologist with appointments and follow-ups factored in, the price you might pay for them will vary. Merit Hearing, another online audiology service/hearing aid retailer, lists the Oticon More as costing between about $1,400 to $2,200 per device, depending on the features, not including follow-up. However, hearing aids like these can have a notable impact on a person’s life, note experts, making even expensive products a worthwhile investment.

Most affordable direct-to-consumer option: Lexie Lumen

lexie hearing

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Why it made the cut: If you’re looking for a fairly basic, accessible, affordable hearing aid that is still high-quality, you can’t beat this direct-to-consumer option.

Specs

  • Behind the ear/receiver in the ear style
  • 36-hour battery life, disposable
  • For mild to moderate hearing loss

Pros

  • Extremely affordable for a hearing aid
  • High quality for the price
  • No need to go through an in-person audiologist
  • Simple app navigation for different device modes

Cons

  • Can’t take calls or listen to music
  • Not rechargeable
  • Slightly bulkier than similar styles

At $799 for a pair, Lexie’s hearing aids are hundreds or even thousands of dollars cheaper than many clinical options. That makes them an ideal option for anyone who wants to invest in a decent pair of hearing aids but might not have insurance that covers the cost or otherwise be able to afford a more expensive option. Lexie’s direct-to-consumer model also makes it extremely simple to buy these online. As with Lively, Lexie offers an online hearing test and access to experts to help you learn to use the product.

Lexie Lumen hearing aids are “autofit” based on a hearing test you can take online and on their app, which is the same app used to adjust the hearing aid. Specifically designed to be clear even to people who might not be “tech-savvy,” the app allows you to easily switch between different modes, such as those for noisy indoor places, being outdoors, or listening to live music.

Though these hearing aids work and connect to your phone via Bluetooth, you cannot take calls or listen to music through them. This might be a problem for someone who tends to take a lot of cell phone calls. It is also not rechargeable, which is becoming uncommon in modern hearing aids, especially because tiny batteries are often challenging for elderly people to replace. In a review, audiologist Dr. Ben Thompson noted that the devices also seemed about 30% larger than average and the colors are more noticeable, but that the devices were still to wear comfortable, fairly unobtrusive, work as advertised, and seem to be made of quality materials.

“Because of its low initial cost, I believe the Lexie Lumen is an excellent first hearing aid,” Thompson writes.

Customer’s pick: Kirkland Signature 10.0

costco

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Why it made the cut: Affordable, accessible, simple to use, and made by a top manufacturer, many people find that this Costco-brand hearing aid provides the best value and experience.

Specs

  • Receiver in ear style (custom ear molds sold separately)
  • 16+ hour battery life, rechargeable
  • Mild to profound

Pros

  •  Affordable compared to many hearing aids
  • Quality technology from a leading manufacturer
  • Convenient follow-up care, including remote visits

Cons

  • Based on slightly older technology
  • Larger than some hearing aids

In a 2021 survey of over 26,000 of its members, Consumer Reports found that Kirkland hearing aids had the highest rating for both value and overall satisfaction, while Costco had the highest rating for a retail experience. It’s true that you have to be a Costco member to buy these devices, but for many people, Costco’s Hearing Center may be more accessible than some audiologist clinics. And many people might prefer their remote follow-up appointments for convenience. This hearing aid can also be customized for virtually any level of hearing loss.

Kirkland hearing aids are made by top manufacturer Sonova and are based closely on another hearing aid it makes called the Phonak Audeo Paradise, which is not Phonak’s newest model. That said, they are still good quality, though larger and slightly less customizable than the newest hearing aid technology. It has many popular hearing aid features, such as Bluetooth compatibility for music and calls, including being able to answer calls directly from the hearing aid. It’s also rechargeable. 

Like many of the hearing aids on this list, it can be controlled and customized through an app. Because of the most traditional audiologist model, you can also be sure that an expert will help make your hearing aid work as well for you as possible.

FAQs

Q: What are the side effects of wearing a hearing aid?

Hearing aids that are used properly and fit well shouldn’t have notable side effects. Aids that are adjusted to be too loud can cause tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and headaches, while aids that don’t fit properly can hurt the outside of the ear or the ear canal or can be itchy. If they are adjusted right or don’t work well for you, you might not be able to hear well. Sometimes, aids can have acoustic feedback, where they will make a ringing sound, which happens when the hearing aid picks up sound from its speakers that’s already been amplified. Properly adjusted hearing aids should not have excessive feedback, though it may still be an occasional issue.

Q: How much do hearing aids cost?

Hearing aids can be quite expensive, typically ranging from $1,000 up to $6,000 dollars per device. In some cases, insurance may cover the cost of devices. Fuentes says that in many cases, it’s one of the more expensive items a person buys in their life, after their car and home. However, if you can afford it, it can be well worth the investment.

“For a person with hearing loss who has stopped interacting with friends and family due to embarrassment that they cannot hear, a hearing aid has a tremendous value,” wrote Dr. Audrey Taylor, an audiologist with McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, in an email to Popular Science. “Price is what we pay. Value is what we receive.”

Q: How long do hearing aids last?

Most hearing aids last between three and seven years, though they can last for longer. You can make sure your aids last as long as possible by caring for them properly, which you can learn how to do from your audiologist and/or materials online specific to the hearing aid.

Q: Does your hearing get worse if you don’t wear your hearing aid?

On its own, not wearing a hearing aid is not likely to worsen the physiological causes of hearing loss, such as damage to the tiny hairs on the inside of the ear that allow you to hear. It’s possible to damage your hearing further if you use other means to compensate for your hearing loss, such as listening to extremely loud music or standing very close to speakers. Some inexpensive hearing amplifiers that you can buy at drugstores look like hearing aids but are not approved by the FDA and can sometimes damage your hearing further by overamplifying sounds. 

Q: How do you clean hearing aids?

An audiologist can help you learn how to properly clean your hearing aids. An earwax pick and brush are usually used to clear out accumulated earwax. Always wash your hands before cleaning your hearing aid. You can also use water-based disinfectants; Oticon suggests also wearing gloves. Many manufacturers have their own tools for cleaning hearing aids, and there are also many outside products you can buy to help keep your hearing aids clean.

Q: How long does it take to get used to hearing aids?

Research shows that the longer someone with hearing loss does not wear a hearing aid, the harder it is for their brain to adjust to sound amplification via aids when they do start using them, says Fuentes. Many people adjust to hearing aids in two or three weeks, but it can take some people as long as four months to get used to them.

Final thoughts on the best hearing aids

Hearing aids can dramatically improve the life of someone with hearing loss, allowing them to communicate with others better and understand more spoken information. With the right, properly fitting device, you can start to appreciate the sounds of the world around you again.

The post Best hearing aids in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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Best Samsung watches of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-samsung-watches/ Sun, 19 Jun 2022 15:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=450013
The best Samsung watch composited
Stan Horaczek

Smarten up your wrist with Samsung’s best wearable devices.

The post Best Samsung watches of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best Samsung watch composited
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is the best overall. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic
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Our favorite pick is the Classic version of the newest Samsung Galaxy 4, offering exceptional functionality and design.

Best budget Samsung Galaxy Fit 2 is the best Samsung watch for the budget. Samsung Galaxy Fit 2
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This incredibly affordable smartwatch tracks sleep, activity and heart rate.

Best for fitness Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is the best for fitness. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
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The latest Samsung smartwatch is a slimmer, sportier version of the Classic model and is an excellent choice.

Wearable smart tech, like a Samsung watch, puts your important health and fitness data within reach at all times. With the flick of your wrist, you can see how many steps you’ve walked, chart your activity levels for the week, record your heart rate, gain information about your sleep patterns, and even keep up with phone calls and email. At the same time, your Samsung watch can work with your smartphone to control your music, display notifications, keep you updated on the weather, and much more. While the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic takes our top spot overall, this list of the best Samsung watches has something for every type of person.

How we chose the best Samsung watches

Samsung’s current watch lineup isn’t very deep, which makes comparing the current models fairly simple. The Galaxy Watch 3 is still a solid device but it has limited support coming down the road in terms of software updates. If you can swing the price of the latest, greatest Galaxy Watch 4 or Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, it will get Wear OS updates for years to come. However, not everyone needs a full-featured smartwatch. Some of the company’s fitness-oriented wearables still provide some truly excellent value thanks to their very low prices. 

Things to consider before buying a Samsung watch

Before you can decide which Samsung watch is right for you, think about how you’ll use your new smart timepiece. For some people, their watch acts as an extension of their smartphone. It lets you have access to key features right on your wrist without having to open your phone at all.

If you intend to use your watch to track your sports and activities, you might have other considerations, such as needing a waterproof smartwatch or one that has access to a wide range of different workout data. 

Take a moment to think about your needs and your ideal fitness watch, and be sure to keep these things in mind before you go shopping. 

It’s a pass for iPhone users

Samsung has released a new smartwatch every year since 2018. In its latest offerings, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic are both impressive and attractive devices … but iOS users beware. The 4 Series is the first in the range to run on the Google-based Wear OS operating system instead of Samsung’s proprietary Tizen OS. As a result, the Galaxy Watch 4 models will work with an iPhone but they won’t have access to the same suite of features that Android users will enjoy. If you’re already using an iPhone, then an Apple Watch will likely be a much better fit for you. 

If you decide to benefit from some savings and buy one of the older models, Samsung has promised to support Tizen-based watches until roughly 2025.

Design

Although Samsung smartwatches are incredibly functional and have an amazing collection of special features, you’ll also want to consider how you want the watch to look. After all, you’re wearing it every day so it’s important that it matches your personal style and looks good in a variety of situations. 

Sporty people might care only that their watch is easy to use in the middle of a workout, but if you plan on wearing it outside of the gym, you might prefer a more traditional-looking watch face or the ability to customize and change the strap. Unlike a phone, the watch doesn’t stay crammed in your pocket all day so looks really do matter.

Size

Smartwatches have gotten larger and larger in recent years. The current Galaxy Watch 4 comes in 40mm and 44mm faces. The Galaxy Watch Classic comes in 42mm and 46mm sizes. Even the smallest of those options will still feel sizeable on your wrist, so make sure you’re ready for the bulk if you go for the big screen. 

Your fitness goals

Think about your usual exercise activities and exactly what data you want your watch to record. For example, if you’re a swimmer, your watch should be waterproof and calculate your stroke. If you run, bike or hike, you will need reliable GPS to help you plot and track new routes. 

Samsung watches can also help improve your overall wellness with a focus on sleep tracking and the ability to pair with the Calm app to improve your meditation practice.

Going offline

One downside of wearable tech is that it can feel like you’re always connected and “on.” We all need to unplug and take some downtime but constant e-mail notifications and alerts from the office can be intrusive when they pop up on your watch during off-hours or weekends. 

To counter this problem, pay attention when you set up your watch and choose which apps to accept notifications from. You can also go to the settings in your Galaxy Wearable App to make changes there.

Best Samsung watches: Reviews & Recommendations

Here are our top picks of the best Samsung watches, from simple budget smartwatches to the newest iteration of the smartwatch.

Best overall: Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: This great-looking Samsung watch, with its rotating bezel, offers all the best features of the newest smartwatches with a classic look that elevates the design.

Specs

  • Heart Rate: Yes
  • GPS: Yes
  • Swim-Proof: Yes

Pros 

  • Runs on the new Google Wear OS 
  • Grown-up design that looks great for all occasions
  • Will get more software updates than older models

Cons 

  • Expensive

Available in either black or silver and in two sizes—42mm and 46mm, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is one of a pair of the latest smartwatches from Samsung. 

Make it your own by mixing and matching from a range of different straps and watch faces to create your own customized look. This watch is heavier than its sibling and bigger overall. It offers 1.5GB RAM, 16GB storage, Bluetooth, and LTE. Both watches run on the new Wear OS 3 platform, which unfortunately will not work with an iPhone.

The BioActive sensor records your heart rate and provides Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis. This means you can monitor your blood pressure, blood oxygen levels, and accurately calculate muscle and body fat percentages.

Loaded with a built-in GPS, a compass that works with Google Maps, and third-party apps like Spotify and Adidas Running, you’ll have access to running routes that keep you on track. You’ll meet your health and fitness goals with this wellness coach and trainer right on your wrist. 

You’ll also be able to pay for certain goods and services simply by tapping your smartwatch at the counter, so long as you have a compatible banking service. Although this Samsung watch is at the top of the price scale, ranging from $349.99 to $429.99, it’s well worth the investment.

Best for fitness: Samsung Galaxy Watch 4

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: Available in a wide range of colors and with a sporty design, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 delivers in both design and functionality.

Specs

  • Wireless charging: Yes, Qi
  • RAM: 1.5GB
  • GPS: Built-in

Pros 

  • Excellent fitness features
  • Slim profile and fun watch faces
  • Full body composition analysis feature

Cons 

  • Unreliable battery life

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is less bulky than the Classic, which we deemed best overall. The standard Galaxy Watch 4 comes in your choice of four colors, including pink gold, silver, black, and green. The two watches are essentially the same except for the design and the bezel feature of the classic, although those with smaller wrists might prefer this slightly lighter option. Made from aluminum, this watch offers two sizes—40mm and 44mm. The screen offers an impressive resolution of 396 x 396 or 450 x 450 depending on which size you opt for.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 boasts an array of fitness features including ECG support, activity tracking, GPS for recording runs, and it’s waterproof up to 5 meters with swim tracking.

However, to access the blood pressure monitoring and ECG functions, you’ll require a Samsung smartphone. Both models also offer NFC for Samsung Pay.  

Best waterproof: Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: The swim-friendly Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2 is a versatile option that works with any smartphone as it runs on Samsung’s Tizen operating system.

Specs

  • Display: 40mm or 44mm
  • Heart Rate: Yes
  • Swim-Proof: Yes

Pros 

  • Good 2-day battery life
  • Minimal modern look
  • Offline Spotify storage

Cons 

  • Not much of an upgrade on the previous model
  • Sleep tracking is flawed

This attractive smartwatch is swim-proof, tracks activity, and offers an ECG option that is unusual at this price point. It comes in two different sizes and in two different finishes: aluminum—available in cloud silver, aqua black, and pink gold colors—or stainless steel, which comes in silver, black, and gold. 

This watch is a great option for runners as it comes with a Running Coach featuring a Running Analysis which includes data on your contact, flight time, stiffness, vertical oscillation, and measures VO2 max. The heart rate monitor is fairly accurate and is twice as powerful as its predecessor. The onboard music through Spotify will also keep you going on long runs and if you need a break, you can use the smart pay function to pay for your mid-run caffeine break. 

Last year Samsung released an update that allowed older smartwatch models like the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2 to benefit from new features such as fall detection. This gives users the option to add pre-selected contacts that will receive an SOS message if a hard fall is detected. This model can withstand splashes of water, showering, and also swimming, as it’s rated at 5 ATM, which means it’s water-resistant to depths of 50 meters. With automatic swim tracking as well, you can go for a dip confident that your smart watch can keep up with your stroke.

Best older model: Samsung Galaxy Watch 3

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: This stylish model is our favorite with a traditional timepiece design.

Specs

  • OS: Tizen OS
  • Onboard storage: 8GB
  • Battery duration: Up to 3 days 

Pros 

  • Premium design
  • ECG Readings 
  • Thousands of watch faces to choose from

Cons 

  • Galaxy watch 4 has replaced it 

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 has all the features you need to record and track your workouts and activities, including water-resistant for swimming, GPS for running or hiking, a heart rate monitor, VO2 Max readings, and sleep and stress tracking for complete wellness. However, even though it’s the ultimate sports watch, it doesn’t look like a typical sports watch. In fact, it makes a stylish special occasion or formal work watch. 

The bright screen is easy to read and the rotating bezel makes it easy to navigate between features, even when you’re in the middle of a workout. For Android users, this watch is more than a match for a comparable model of the Apple Watch.

Best budget: Samsung Galaxy Fit 2

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: The Samsung Galaxy Fit 2 is a very affordable wearable that can track steps and heart rate for a super low price.

Specs

  • OS: FreeRTOS 
  • RAM Size: 2 MB
  • Battery Life: Typical usage time up to 15 days

Pros 

  • Easy to use
  • Comfortable
  • Low price
  • Compact

Cons 

  • No GPS

The Samsung Galaxy Fit 2 doesn’t look as sleek as later models and it lacks some advanced features you would expect from a more expensive smartwatch. But this wearable’s price makes it extremely attractive to people seeking basic fitness-tracking features on the cheap.

At just $59, it does a great job of tracking steps, sleep patterns, and various forms of exercise. In the absence of GPS, it relies on motion sensing to track activity, which means it’s less accurate than more expensive models. Notifications, weather updates, and music control are all included but, as the screen is long and narrow, you will need to scroll to read the whole message. It’s also not built for displaying photos. Samsung claims that the battery can last 15 days but the company may be a little too generous with that prediction. Available in either red or black, on a soft and comfortable silicone band, the Samsung Galaxy Fit 2 is a great budget pick. 

FAQs

Q: How much does a Samsung watch cost?

You can pick up the Samsung Galaxy Fit 2 for less than $60. As new models are released, older Samsung watches become more affordable while still offering great features. A new Samsung Galaxy 4 watch will cost you between $249.99 and $429.99, depending on which model you choose. 

Q: Which Galaxy watch can make calls?

To make calls on your Samsung Galaxy watch, it needs to be equipped with both a built-in mic and speaker, like the Galaxy Watch Active2, Galaxy Watch3, Galaxy Watch4, Galaxy Watch4 Classic, and Gear S3. 

Q: Do Samsung watches work with iPhones?

The answer here is a frustrating “kinda.” The new Galaxy Watch 4 models run on Google’s Wear OS, which isn’t fully compatible with iPhone. If you’re an iPhone user, you will get much better performance out of an Apple Watch

Final thoughts on the best Samsung watches

The best Samsung watches help put your important health and fitness data in your hands, as well as extend your smartphone to increase productivity and connectivity. For a pared-down watch that simply tracks activity and sleep with fewer features at a low price point, consider the Samsung Galaxy Fit 2, while for a premium experience push the boat out and go for either the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 or the Classic option.

The post Best Samsung watches of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best sunglasses in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-sunglasses/ Mon, 19 Apr 2021 14:59:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/story/?p=283377
A couple on the beach wearing sunglasses
Joey Nicotra, Unsplash

The best sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun while making you shine.

The post Best sunglasses in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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A couple on the beach wearing sunglasses
Joey Nicotra, Unsplash

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Best aviators Gold Ray-Ban classic aviator sunglasses Ray-Ban Rb3025 Classic Aviator Sunglasses
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These classics come in over 30 frame and lens colors and three different sizes.

Best mirrored Small Square Polarized Sunglasses for Men and Women SOJOS SJ1072 Small Square Mirrored Sunglasses
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The UV 400 protective lens blocks 99 to 100 percent of harmful UV light, and the mirrored coating blocks all the bad vibes.

Best budget Two cat-eye women sunglasses YOSHYA Retro Vintage Narrow Cat Eye Sunglasses for Women
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This budget-friendly option comes in 23 color combinations.

Sunglasses are like shoes: they serve a valuable function but can do so with flair. Sure, they can just protect your body, but they can also flatter your features and complement your outfit. First and foremost, they must shield your eyes from damaging rays, but that shouldn’t stop you from feeling confident in your style. Sunglasses may be one of the most misplaced accessories, but if you feel capable of holding onto them a classically styled pair can be an investment that will look good for many years. But with so many styles, shapes, colors, and brands, why would you restrict yourself to just one option? Whether your aesthetic leans toward classic aviator sunglasses or something hypermodern, you can find a pair of cool sunglasses that fit the shape of your face and the style of your clothes. And, because there are many, many, many pairs to choose from, we’ve narrowed them down to a few of the very best, so read on!

What to consider when buying the best sunglasses

When looking for the best sunglasses you might lean toward picking by their aesthetics first, but a good place to start is figuring out what shape face you have. Do you have a round face, a rectangular face, a heart-shaped face, or an oval face? Once you sort this out, you’ll have a better idea of the best shades to flatter your face shape. If you have a round face, consider square, rectangular, or more angular options to balance out the roundness of your face. Similarly, if you have a rectangular face, look for round or oval frames. It’s all about balance! If you have a heart-shaped face, aviators are the ones for you because they have a similar shape to your, you guessed it, face. And if you fall into the oval-face-shaped category, then lucky for you because most will look good—oversized picks, cat-eye sunglasses, aviator sunglasses—so have fun experimenting. With all of that said, if you fall in love with a pair and think they look fabulous, forget the “rules” and just go for it! The best look is one that makes you feel great.

Lenses

Now let’s move on to something that is and isn’t as, well, polarizing as fashion. You’ve seen the words “polarized lenses,” but what is it that they actually do, you ask? While all sunglasses will reduce brightness from the sun, they won’t all reduce glare, which is where polarized sunglasses step into the picture. Filtering out most of the sun’s glare will give you clearer vision and reduce eye strain. So, when should you wear polarized shades? Well, you can wear them at any time, but they will specifically help when driving, boating, or skiing/snowboarding because of all the reflective surfaces. 

While polarized sunglasses are totally up to you, always look for cool sunglasses with 99- or 100-percent UV protection in order to protect your eyes best.

Size

Now that you have an idea of the best sunglasses shape that will work for your face, let’s talk about size. The cool sunglasses you choose should be proportionate to the size of your features, as you don’t want them to overwhelm your face. For example, if you have a rectangular face, the larger your features the larger the frame can be, and it can extend past your temples. On the other hand, if you have an oval or heart-shaped face with smaller features, choose models with a lighter frame, or if you have more dramatic features, you will look great with a thicker frame. For both of these face shapes, you don’t want to go too wide. 

Also, something to consider is what color frame and lenses you want. There are so many fun colors being offered today you certainly don’t need to stick to the basics of black or tortoiseshell (though they are classics for a reason). Color is where you can really have fun and experiment with your style. Depending on your budget, you can invest in a few to fit your mood when you wake up that day. You can even have different colors to match every single shirt in your closet. You do you, and here are some of our suggestions for the best sunglasses to get you started.

The best sunglasses: Reviews & Recommendations

Best aviator sunglasses: Ray-Ban Rb3025 Classic Aviator Sunglasses

Ray-Ban

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Ray-Ban sunglasses were originally developed at the request of the U.S. Army to ban distracting rays from pilots’ eyes, so there’s no better place to look if you want the classic aviator style. These favorites are unisex and offered in over 30 frame and lens colors and three different sizes. These anti-glare Aviator sunglasses, originally introduced to the public in 1937, are made with a metal frame and high-quality scratch-resistant glass. Additionally, the lenses are polarized and provide 100-percent UV protection. You can’t go wrong with these classic Ray-Bans.

Best women’s sunglasses: Quay Women’s Sweet Dreams Sunglasses

Quay

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If you’re the type who likes to be noticed even if you’re incognito, these oversized sunglasses for women stand out in the best way. These Quay sunglasses are made of a plastic frame, making them extremely lightweight on your face. To keep these protected in your bag, they come with a soft case with a cleaning cloth. These women’s sunglasses are offered in black with a smoke color gradient lens and a gold-tone trim. The nose bridge gives the designer pick a slight aviator vibe and we’re here for it.

Best men’s sunglasses: Oakley Men’s Oo9102 Holbrook Sunglasses

Oakley

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Oakley may be making sunglasses designed for Olympic athletes, but this popular sunglass company also designs some of the most popular sunglass styles on the market. Where to begin with these best-sellers? Besides being the epitome of cool sunglasses, they have all of the awesome technology that Oakley sunglasses are known for. The square Grilamid frames are impact-resistant, lightweight, and long-lasting. The lenses are both HDPolarized, filtering out 99 percent of reflected glare, and have a UV protection coating. These are offered in two sizes and over 30 frame and lens colors. If needed or wanted, the lenses can be swapped for prescription or PRIZM (an Oakley technology designed to enhance color and contrast).

Best mirrored sunglasses: SOJOS SJ1072 Small Square Mirrored Sunglasses

SOJOS

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The frame of these best-selling Sojos sunnies is made with lightweight, yet durable metal that will fit comfortably on your nose. The UV 400 protective lens will block 99 to 100 percent of harmful UV light, so you can rest easy knowing your eyes are protected all year long, because you won’t want to take these off. While the mirrored lenses are currently all the rage, they may not be your jam, which is OK because these are offered in 11 different frame and lens colors.

Best cheap sunglasses: YOSHYA Retro Vintage Narrow Cat Eye Sunglasses for Women

YOSHYA

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If you’re looking for cheap sunglasses you won’t be crushed to lose, these may not be for you. Yes, they’re cheap at just $8.19 for one pair, $11.98 for two pairs, and $14.98 for three pairs, but you will certainly miss them if they’re gone. You can’t go wrong with the trendy cat-eye shape, offered in numerous colors. The frames are made with a sturdy-feeling, lightweight plastic but are likely not scratch-resistant. Luckily, even though these are cheap they come with a soft case to protect them when they’re not in use. These cuties are not polarized, but they have UV 400 protection.

FAQs

Q: How to tell if sunglasses have UV protection?

There are basically three ways to know if your sunglasses are UV protected. Firstly, if they’re a new pair, look for a label that says 100-percent UV protection or UV 400. This means that your sunglasses will protect your eyes against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Secondly, you can bring your shades to an eye-care professional to test your lenses with a tool called a photometer. Lastly, if you have a UV flashlight, you can do a simple at-home test. Make sure to check your older sunglasses, especially if they have a UV coating instead of UV protection built into the lens, as the coating can fade with time.

Q: What are the best polarized sunglasses on the market?

The best-polarized sunglasses are dependent on how you plan on wearing them. If you want polarized lenses while you play sports or are spending long periods of time in the sun, consider sunglasses that offer more eye coverage. Ones that are a bit more rounded around your eyes toward your temples will offer more protection. Across the board, certain Ray-Ban styles are an all-time favorite for polarized sunglasses because of the high-quality materials used—the aluminum frames, the scratch- and shatter-resistant lenses—so it’s hard to go wrong.

Q: How to measure sunglass size?

As an FYI, most sunglasses have the size written on the inside of one of the temples. The eye/lens size is first, then the bridge size, and then the temple (arm) size. To see what size you are, grab a ruler, look in the mirror, and measure your face, temple to temple. Sunglasses measurements are taken in millimeters, so you’ll need to convert. Your face width should roughly measure out to the width of the lenses and the bridge.

Final thoughts on the best sunglasses

The best sunglasses will protect your eyes from long-term damage caused by harmful UV rays, rest comfortably on your face, and make you feel like a million bucks (even the cheap sunglasses can look that good). And, yes, this applies for both men’s and women’s glasses alike, whether they’re aviators or oversized options or anything in between. There are details to sort out—like color, size, style, and shape—but that’s the fun stuff, especially now that you have some direction. Once you find a pair of cool sunglasses that feels like it was made for you, you may never want to take them off.

The post Best sunglasses in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Save $100 today on the Garmin fenix 6 Pro Solar multi-sport watch on Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/garmin-sport-watch-deal/ Wed, 15 Jun 2022 19:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=450511
A Garmin fenix 6 Pro on a blue background
Amanda Reed

Analyze your steps and water intake after running to this deal.

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A Garmin fenix 6 Pro on a blue background
Amanda Reed

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Memorial Day marked the beginning of adventurous long weekends supplemented by bike riding, pool hangs, and our favorite, camping. Now you can turn your outdoor escapades into actionable data with the Garmin fenix 6 Pro Solar GPS watch, which is currently on sale for $649.99, $100 off of its $749.99 retail price. Act fast, however, as this sale coincides with Father’s Day, which is June 19 (aka this weekend), so it will end soon.

Garmin

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Between its Power Glass solar charging lens, preloaded TOPO maps, and barometric altimeter, this watch was made for adventure. It also features dedicated activity profiles where you can track surfing sessions and record yourself catching fat waves thanks to Surfline Sessions compatibility. An acclimation widget lets you know how your body is holding up due to current elevation, and support for multiple global navigation satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo) means you’ll be out of the woods if you get lost. And, if your wallet gets stolen by Bigfoot and you’re hankering for a post-camping meal made over a stove by someone else, the watch supports Garmin Pay for contactless payments. And 16-day battery life when solar charging means you don’t have to worry about the watch losing power, making none of these snazzy features usable. These are just some of the dozens and dozens of highly customizable reasons that this watch topped many lists, including our previous round-ups of Garmin models

While the Garmin fenix 6 Pro Solar may be “last year’s model” (we’ll be reviewing the fenix 7 Sapphire Solar in the coming months), it still holds up to the competition—both in the adventure watch market and throughout whatever grueling physical contest you chose to undertake with it. 

The functionality of the fenix 6 Pro Solar makes us fantasize about our dream long weekend camping trip: with the watch as our North Star and this BioLite headlamp as our torch, we’d kick off our Timberland hiking boots and crack open a cold one using the bottleopener included in a trusty LEATHERMAN multi-tool. We’d crawl into our waterproof tent from The North Face, curl up in this Coleman Sun Ridge sleeping bag, which is designed for warmer weather, and charge our phone (and each and every other device we might have at hand) using this Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core Portable Power Station (believe us when we say solar generators are so hot when it’s hot).

The next day, we’d wake up with the sunset and take a picture to document it. No camping morning is complete without a good cup of coffee—Aeropress is our portable travel coffee press of choice. Nothing beats camp breakfast either, made possible with the Jetboil MiniMo camping and backpacking stove and Snow Peak Titanium spork. Hydration is key, so we’d make sure to take sips from our Hydroflask and monitor our water intake using the watch, which includes a hydration tracker that accounts for sweat loss. We’d pack it all in a reliable long-weekend companion, like the Osprey Farpoint 55 backpack, and make our way back to reality out of the woods, thanking the Garmin fenix 6 Pro Solar watch for helping us along the way.

The post Save $100 today on the Garmin fenix 6 Pro Solar multi-sport watch on Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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Save hundreds on top tech at Best Buy, this weekend only https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-buy-dads-grads-tech-sale/ Fri, 10 Jun 2022 15:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=449498
Multiple product images of sale items at Best Buy
Amanda Reed

The big-deal people in your life, yourself certainly included, deserve to benefit from this big deal.

The post Save hundreds on top tech at Best Buy, this weekend only appeared first on Popular Science.

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Multiple product images of sale items at Best Buy
Amanda Reed

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Nothing says “Congratulations, you’re an adult!” quite like the harsh reality that you are now a non-digital-native parent’s IT department. Best Buy makes it cheaper—and easier—to celebrate these real-world milestones with its 3-day Dads & Grads sale, running today through Sunday, June 12.  

We’re particular to the bevy of laptops on sale. The biggest deal we saw was this Lenovo Yoga 9i for $1,049.99, which is $400 off its $1,449.99 retail price.

Lenovo

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Lenovo’s powerful, sleek laptop features a quad-core 11th-generation Intel Core i7 processor with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB solid state drive. It can also be used as a tablet thanks to its 2-in-1 design and ultrathin, ultraportable 3-pound shell. Plus the 14-inch multitouch screen with energy-efficient LED backlight and a 1920×1080 resolution means crisp, clear graphics for the best PowerPoints at work and the best games and streaming content at home. Also, if a parent has a question about the weather, they can ask Alexa directly—this laptop has built-in voice command capabilities and a surprisingly loud mini-soundbar in its hinge.

For Apple lovers, Best Buy has 13-inch M1 MacBook Pros in Space Gray and Silver on sale at up to $150 off, in case they don’t want to wait for the latest version that Apple announced June 6. Apple Music, Apple News, and Apple TV+ are free for 3-6 months with purchase.  

Check out these TVs, appliances, earbuds, smartwatches, and additional tech products on sale in case you need to accessorize your post-grad lifestyle or treat the parent(s) to a new fridge:

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Everything you need to know about the new Apple M2 laptops and WWDC 2022 https://www.popsci.com/gear/apple-wwdc-2022-news/ Tue, 07 Jun 2022 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=448446
Apple WWDC 2022 News
Apple

Here are all the new features coming to your iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac this fall.

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Apple WWDC 2022 News
Apple

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At its WWDC 2022 keynote presentation on Monday, June 6, Apple unveiled its next-generation M2 chipset, which will power a new wave of Mac laptops and desktops. The new chip promises performance improvements over the M1, Apple’s original first-party processor, which we’ll get to see in a redesigned MacBook Air and an updated version of the 13-inch MacBook Pro coming in July. 

As expected, hardware was a secondary concern at WWDC, as Apple also announced the new versions of its various operating systems for its many devices. Coming this fall, the various software updates included iOS 16 for iPhones, macOS Ventura, iPad OS 16, and watchOS 9. Though there’s plenty of overlap, each system will have distinctive new features, including customization features for the iPhone lock screen, revamped multitasking on iPads, and more robust health tracking in Apple Watch. It was an action-packed event. Here’s a quick rundown of the highlights.

M2 Apple Silicon

Laptops photo
The Apple M2 chip will power the next wave of Mac computers.

Apple unveils next-generation M series chip

In the realm of “new stuff,” Apple’s M2 chip made its debut, promising some big performance gains over the current M1 Macs and even bigger ones over older Intel-based Macs. The new M2 chip is constructed using a second-generation 5-nanometer process, and consists of over 20 billion transistors—25-percent more than the original M1. The additional transistors result in an 18-percent faster CPU, 35 percent faster GPU, and a 40-percent faster Neural Engine.

Like the M1, the M2 is an 8-core processor with four high-performance cores and four high-efficiency cores. It features 50 percent more memory bandwidth than the M1 and up to 24GB of fast unified memory.

The M2 gets an even bigger bump in the graphics department. The new 10-core GPU is bigger than the 8-core design of the M1. That allows it to hit 25-percent higher graphics performance benchmarks than an M1 at the same power level, and up to 35-percent higher performance at max power. The M2 also introduces an updated media engine that supports 8K H.264 and HEVC video, allowing you to play multiple streams of 4K and 8K video.

Presumably, we’ll see M2 make its way into all of Apple’s computers (and some iPads) over the next few years. The new wave begins in July, when Apple launches the first two M2 laptops, including the newly designed MacBook Air, which ditches the line’s signature tapered “wedge” design for the first time since the original Air launched in 2008.

Laptops photo

MacBook Air gets a big redesign

The 2022 MacBook Air is the signature machine showcasing the M2 chip at launch. As with every Air, the new is set to deliver outstanding performance in a svelte package, albeit a more evenly shaped one. The new MacBook Air is 11.3mm thick, weighs 2.7 pounds, and features an all-aluminum unibody enclosure. According to Apple, that’s a 20-percent reduction in “overall volume” from the current M1 MacBook Air. With a smaller body, it should be no surprise that the port situation remains essentialist, with the same two Thunderbolt ports and a 3.5mm audio jack with support for high-impedance headphones. That means no HDMI port or SD card reader, so you’ll have to rely on a USB hub for additional connectivity.

That said, the new Air will feature a slightly larger 13.6-inch Liquid Retina Display—up from 13.3 inches on the M1 Air—with a notably enhanced top brightness of 500 nits. Like the newer MacBook Pro, the new MacBook Air features a display notch, which makes room for a long-awaited 1080p FaceTime HD camera. The MacBook Air will be available in four colors, including Midnight and Starlight, and will feature the same MagSafe that was reintroduced on the MacBook Pro.

Laptops photo

There’s also a “new” 13-inch MacBook Pro 

Speaking of the MacBook Pro, Apple will also bring the M2 to the entry-level 13-inch form factor, which offers a big performance bump, but not the extra ports and improvements found in last year’s outstanding M1 Pro and M1 Max redesigns. (Touch Bar fans, this one’s for you.)

While the design remains the same, users will see an improvement in performance when using graphic-intensive apps thanks to its active cooling system. For example, editing RAW images in Affinity Photo can be up to 40-percent faster thanks to the M2’s 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU. The 13-inch MacBook Pro also promises up to 20 hours of battery life for video playback.

Those looking for a redesign can find it in the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, which feature more powerful specs (and heftier prices) in addition to M1 Pro and M1 Max chips. By keeping the 13-inch MacBook Pro around, Apple is offering a much more affordable entry into the pro category, while continuing to ditch Intel for its in-house silicon.

The MacBook Air with M2 chip will start at $1,199, while the 13-inch MacBook Pro with M2 will start at $1,299. Apple didn’t reveal an exact launch for the MacBook Air but did say it’ll be available in July.

iOS 16

WWDC 2022 News
The iPhone lock screen is getting a huge glow up in iOS 16.

Apple brings widgets and customization to the lock screen

In iOS 16, Apple has redesigned the lock screen to bring you more information at a glance. You will be able to customize what you can see before unlocking your phone beyond setting a photo, adding widgets like your calendar, the current forecast, and Apple-Watch-style activity rings. You’ll also be able to change the font and color of the time, and add filters to the entire lock screen for some added style. Apple said you can create multiple lock screens, which you swipe through, similar to changing watch faces on Apple Watch. A new Photo Shuffle feature will let you choose a set of photos that will automatically change throughout the day.

You’ll also see a “Live Activities” feature on the lock screen, which effectively combines a widget and a notification for frequently updating events. For example, if you’re a sports fan, a notification for a game you’re following will update your lock screen and bring you the latest score and other relevant updates. Developers can create custom Live Activities, so you can check the status of a delivery or shipment without leaving your lock screen.

WWDC 2022 News
You will now be able to edit text in Messages, even after sending it.

Messages will get an edit function

Messages are also getting a few new user-requested features. You’ll be able to edit messages, cancel texts with an “undo send” feature, and mark them as unread. The edit function will allow you to edit typos, while undo will let you unsend a message after sending for up to 15 minutes after sending a given message. These additions give you a lot more editing power and should make texting feel a little more like using chat apps, such as WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger.

WWDC 2022 News
Apple’s new vision for CarPlay includes deep integration into the vehicles’ systems.

Apple Wallet, CarPlay, and more

There are a ton of miscellaneous new features coming to iOS 16, including changes to Focus, a shared photo library for shared iCloud accounts, SharePlay for Messages, and Live Text support in videos. 

Apple Wallet will add a “pay later” function that will allow users to break up Apple Pay purchases into four installments over a set period without interest charges. Once you place an order, Apple Wallet will help you track your orders so that you can receive detailed information throughout your package’s journey to your doorstep.

Finally, CarPlay will get its most significant update yet, setting the stage for deep integrations with dashboard systems in new cars. You’ll be able to perform actions like changing the temperature, controlling the radio, and seeing deeper vehicle data, including your current speed, fuel level, and fuel economy. Though iOS 16 will include some of this CarPlay functionality, Apple said automakers like Ford, Volvo, and Jaguar won’t announce new vehicles that support the system until late 2023.

watchOS 9

WWDC 2022 News
WatchOS adds new watch faces as well as deeper tracking for exercise and sleep.

Apple Watch adds new health features

Apple also unveiled watchOS 9, which adds four new watch faces, workout updates, and deeper integration with Apple Fitness+. If you’re a runner, watchOS 9 will introduce more insights into how efficiently you run. For example, you’ll be able to track your stride length, ground contact time, and vertical oscillation, giving you valuable data whether you’re a casual runner or training for a marathon. 

Apple will also add an FDA-cleared atrial fibrillation (AFib) history feature, which will provide those who have been diagnosed with AFib with deeper insights into their condition. The hope is that this information will allow people to make lifestyle changes that can potentially improve their condition.

WatchOS 9 will also add deeper sleep insights. By tapping into Apple Watch’s accelerometer and heart rate sensor, the wearable will detect when you’re in REM, Core, or Deep sleep—metrics that better help you understand your sleep quality.

Perhaps the most significant addition in watchOS 9 is the ability to manage and track your medications, vitamins, and supplements. The feature will allow you to create a medications list, set up schedules and reminders, and view information about your medication in the Health app. You can also receive an alert if there are potential critical interactions with medications you’re already taking.

iPadOS 16

WWDC 2022 News
With Stage Manager, iPadOS 16 will enable a more laptop-like workflow on tablets.

The iPad introduces multitasking upgrades (and a weather app)

The most significant feature coming to iPadOS is called Stage Manager (also available in macOS Ventura), which organizes apps and windows into a pane on the left side of the display. By default, the apps and windows are arranged in order of recency, but you can also group apps together to quickly access them, like if you need Safari and Notes to plan for a meal. You can now open apps as overlapping windows and resize them, bringing them more in line with the conventional macOS experience.

Stage Manager also brings full external display support in up to 6K resolution and will allow users to run four apps on their iPad Pro, as well as four apps on the external display. These features are only available on iPad Pro and 2022 iPad Air with an M1 chip.

WWDC 2022 News
Freeform, a new app, is a scalable collaborative whiteboard for project planning.

Collaborate with the new FreeForm app

Additionally, iPadOS 16 will introduce Freeform, a collaboration app that offers a scalable whiteboard, so there are no limits on the page size or layout. You’ll be able to see the updates people have made and even hop on FaceTime to discuss ideas. The new Freeform app brings to mind Figma’s FigJam app, which offers a similar collaboration tool.

Other additions coming to iPadOS 16 include Apple’s Weather app and “Reference Mode,” a color calibration tool for creatives that allows the iPad Pro and Liquid Retina XDR display to match the color requirements in workflows like review and approve, color grading, and compositing. This will ensure that photo and video editors get consistent, color-accurate edits across their projects, making the iPad Pro an even more powerful tool for creatives.

macOS Ventura

WWDC 2022 News
Continuity Camera, a new feature in macOS Ventura, lets you use your iPhone as a webcam. Apple

Expanded continuity comes to Mac

Ventura, the next big update for macOS, offers one of the most exciting features of the day. Continuity Camera will allow users to turn their iPhone into a webcam. Macs will automatically recognize your iPhone when it’s nearby and use it for video conferencing. You’ll be able to take advantage of modern iPhone camera features like Center Stage, which automatically adjusts the camera’s framing to center on you, and the background-blurring Portrait mode.

Ventura also brings updates to some of Apple’s core apps, including Safari. In Ventura, you’ll be able to share tab groups with friends and family and start a FaceTime call right from the page you’re browsing. Meanwhile, Mail is introducing more robust search features and the ability to schedule emails and undo send for up to 10 seconds after hitting send.

WWDC 2022 News
Spotlight will present you with more information than ever without ever opening your web browser.

Spotlight gets more powerful

Finally, Apple has updated Spotlight to bring more information to searches. In addition to launching apps, you can type in a musical artist and get information about who they are, when they were born, where they’re from, etc. You can also set timers, create a new document, and run a shortcut from Spotlight.

Final thoughts on WWDC 2022

We rarely expect major hardware announcements at WWDC, so color us pleasantly surprised that we got to hear about some new Macs at WWDC 2022. Of course, these are all just promises until we take the time to test the M2 Macs later this summer. And, of course, we’re looking forward to checking out all the new features coming to Apple’s various devices as roll out in beta ahead of their wide launch in the fall.

The post Everything you need to know about the new Apple M2 laptops and WWDC 2022 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Apple Watch cases to keep your smartwatch safe https://www.popsci.com/story/shop/apple-watch-cases/ Thu, 01 Apr 2021 17:57:28 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/story/?p=280510
A white apple watch with a silver case
There’s never a bad time to protect your watch. Luke Chesser, Unsplash

Keep your screen clean and scratch free.

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A white apple watch with a silver case
There’s never a bad time to protect your watch. Luke Chesser, Unsplash

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Just like smartphones and laptops, smartwatches are delicate, accident-prone devices that need protection from life’s unfortunate, unpredictable mishaps. Apple Watch cases provide full coverage with scratch-resistant, touch-sensitive, bumpers, and more. Plus, cases are an accessory that can be color-coordinated with your band to match or enhance your Apple Watch style. No matter the environment or situation, prevent serious scratches, dents, and cracks with these Apple Watch cases.

elkson

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Always keep in mind the material a case is made out of. Cases constructed from scratch-resistant thermoplastic polyurethane, or TPU, are especially elastic and resistant to oil, grease, and abrasion. Tempered glass and shock-proof glass screens are durable for long-lasting protection.

VASG

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Consider the fit of your Apple Watch case. Cases, especially ones with bumpers, shouldn’t be bulky. Instead, they should have a snug fit with precise cutouts that work smoothly with the buttons and watch crown.

BRG

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Make sure the cases you buy are compatible with your Apple Watch model. Many newer cases are not only compatible with the current series 6 watch, but series 5 and 4 as well. Case sizes range from 38mm to 44mm.

The post Apple Watch cases to keep your smartwatch safe appeared first on Popular Science.

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