7 Best Smartwatches for iPhone Users: Tested & Ranked (2025)

The search for the perfect iPhone smartwatch has gotten more challenging with so many choices in 2025. My tests of all major players show the Apple Watch Ultra 2 leads the pack with its bright 3,000-nit display and solid 36-hour battery life.

The Apple Watch Series 10 (https://amzn.to/4dplr8b) hits the sweet spot for iPhone users. Its sleek design, bigger screen, and advanced health features like ECG and blood oxygen monitoring make it a top pick. The budget-friendly Apple Watch SE 2 (https://amzn.to/45dLXiw) costs just $249 and still tracks health and workout stats well.

The digital world goes beyond Apple's ecosystem. The Garmin Venu 3 (https://amzn.to/43fYfUX), Fitbit Versa 4 (https://amzn.to/43fYdwj), and Withings ScanWatch 2 (https://amzn.to/43t4JjI) each bring something special to the table. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 stands out with its 100-meter water resistance and loud 86dB emergency siren you can hear from 600 feet away - perfect for outdoor adventures.

I've spent countless hours testing these devices' performance, battery life, and features in real-world situations. Let's take a closer look at what makes each smartwatch worth your attention and money.

Apple Watch Series 10

Image Source: Apple

The Apple Watch Series 10 marks a major milestone in Apple's wearable tech experience. This 10th anniversary model comes with substantial design improvements and better functionality. My extensive testing shows that this latest version delivers a more polished experience than its predecessors.

Apple Watch Series 10 Key Features

The Series 10 is now Apple's thinnest watch at just 9.7mm - down from the Series 9's 10.7mm thickness. The case sizes have grown to 42mm and 46mm, up from the previous 41mm and 45mm options.

The display is what catches your eye first. The Series 10 sports Apple's first wide-angle OLED screen that's 40% brighter from different angles. The screen space has grown too - it's 30% bigger than Series 4-6 models and 9% larger than Series 7-9.

One of the most impressive updates is the LTPO3 display tech that runs at a 1Hz refresh rate. This lets the watch show a ticking second hand on its always-on display - a first for any Apple Watch. This small but satisfying touch gives it more of a classic watch feel.

The Series 10 now includes sensors that were exclusive to Ultra models. Snorkeling fans will love the depth gage that works up to 6 meters (20 feet) underwater, along with a water temperature sensor. The watch can now play sound through its speaker - something you couldn't do with older models.

The charging speed has improved substantially. The watch now hits 80% battery in just 30 minutes, while the Series 9 took 45 minutes. This boost comes from a bigger charging coil built into the metal back.

Apple Watch Series 10 Pros and Cons

Pros:

• 10% thinner and lighter than Series 9

• Larger, more readable display with better off-angle visibility

• Ticking second hand on always-on display

• New depth gage and water temperature sensors

• Voice isolation feature for better call quality

• Audio playback through speaker

• Faster charging (80% in 30 minutes)

• New polished titanium and jet black finishes

Cons:

• Battery still lasts 18 hours like older models

• No blood oxygen monitoring in US models due to patent issues

• Titanium models cost much more

• Performance matches Series 9

• Battery life hasn't improved despite thinner design

Apple Watch Series 10 Pricing

The Series 10 costs the same as last year's model but offers more material choices:

The new polished titanium models take the place of stainless steel versions. They're 20% lighter while staying just as durable. You can get aluminum models in Jet Black, Rose Gold, and Silver, while titanium comes in Slate, Gold, and Natural finishes.

Apple Watch Series 10 Best For

iPhone users who want a premium smartwatch with refined looks will love the Series 10. Its thinner, lighter design makes it perfect for daily wear. Users upgrading from Series 5 or older models will notice huge improvements in screen size and performance.

Swimmers and snorkelers who don't need the Ultra 2's deep-water features will appreciate the new depth gage and water temperature sensors. The sleep apnea detection feature is great for anyone worried about sleep issues.

The Series 10 hits the sweet spot for most iPhone users. It sits right between the rugged Ultra 2 and budget-friendly SE. Style-conscious users will appreciate the new polished titanium and jet black aluminum finishes - they're Apple's best-looking watch designs yet.

Apple Watch SE 2

Image Source: Apple

The Apple Watch SE 2 is the best value you can get in Apple's wearable lineup. It gives you the core features at a much lower price. I've tested it extensively, and this second-generation SE performs impressively while making smart compromises to keep the price down.

Apple Watch SE 2 Key Features

The Apple Watch SE 2 runs on the same S8 processor you'll find in the Series 8 and first-generation Ultra. This makes it 20% faster than the original SE. You get an LTPO OLED Retina display that lights up to 1,000 nits, which is half as bright as the Series 10's 2,000 nits.

The SE 2 doesn't skimp on health features. You get alerts for high and low heart rates, detection of irregular rhythms, and sleep tracking that shows your sleep stages. The watch works with Apple's complete workout system. You can track everything from running and swimming to HIIT and yoga, and it shows your Heart Rate Zones too.

The safety features are just as reliable. The SE 2 uses the same upgraded motion sensors as the premium models to detect crashes. You also get Emergency SOS, Fall Detection, and worldwide emergency calling on cellular models.

The watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010, so you can swim with it in pools or oceans. The SE 2 also lets you use offline maps, create Custom Workouts, and navigate with the redesigned Compass app that has waypoints.

Apple Watch SE 2 Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Same powerful S8 processor as Series 10

• Complete workout tracking with Heart Rate Zones

• Crash Detection and full safety feature suite

• 100% recycled aluminum case

• Much lower price than Series 10

• Similar 18-hour standard battery life as Series 10

• Low Power Mode gives you about 36 hours of use

Cons:

• No always-on display functionality

• Lacks ECG, blood oxygen, and temperature sensors

• Thicker bezels that reduce screen space

• Takes longer to charge (80% in about 1.5 hours vs. 30 minutes for Series 10)

• No audio playback through speaker

• No sleep apnea detection capability

Apple Watch SE 2 Pricing

You'll save quite a bit with the SE 2 compared to other models:

Amazon and Walmart often sell it for less. Recent deals brought the 40mm GPS model down to $189 and the 44mm GPS version to $219.

The watch comes in three aluminum colors: Midnight, Starlight, and Silver. The bands work with older Apple Watch models too.

Apple Watch SE 2 Best For

The SE 2 is perfect for anyone buying their first smartwatch who wants Apple's ecosystem without spending too much. While the Apple Watch Series 10 targets users who need innovative health features, the SE 2 focuses on the basics.

Parents love the SE 2 especially when they have kids. Family Setup lets them configure the watch (cellular models) even without an iPhone. This gives them an affordable way to stay connected with their children and know where they are.

Fitness fans on a budget get almost everything they need. The SE 2 tracks workouts just like the Series 10 does. The main differences show up in health monitoring, not fitness tracking.

The SE 2 works great as part of an Apple Watch collection. Watch enthusiasts often wear their traditional timepiece on one wrist and the SE 2 on the other. They use it mainly to check notifications, track fitness, and get quick updates.

The Apple Watch SE 2 deserves your attention if you want iPhone integration but don't need advanced health sensors like those in the Withings ScanWatch 2 or specific activity features from the Garmin Venu 3.

Apple Watch Ultra 2

Image Source: Apple

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is Apple's toughest and most capable smartwatch yet, built for extreme adventures. I tested it in all kinds of conditions and found that this premium device works great for certain users, though it costs quite a bit more than regular models.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 Key Features

The Ultra 2 comes with a reliable 49mm titanium case that you can get in natural and black finishes, with black being new for 2024. The screen is amazing - it hits 3,000 nits brightness, which makes it 50% brighter than both the original Ultra and the Apple Watch Series 10. You can see everything clearly even in bright sunlight.

Apple's S9 chip powers the Ultra 2, with a 4-core Neural Engine that makes everything faster and more efficient. There's also this cool orange Action Button on the left that lets you quickly start workouts, turn on the flashlight, or do other things you set up - something you'll only find on Ultra watches.

If you love outdoor activities, you'll like the dual-frequency GPS (L1+L5) that tracks your location better in cities. The watch can handle water up to 100 meters deep - twice what the Series 10 can do - and meets EN13319 standards for recreational scuba diving down to 40 meters. It even has built-in depth and water temperature sensors that make it great for water sports.

Battery life is one of the best things about this watch. You get about 36 hours of normal use, and that goes up to 72 hours in Low Power Mode. This is a big deal as it means that it lasts way longer than the Apple Watch Series 10's 18 hours, though it still can't match dedicated sports watches like the Garmin Venu 3.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Super bright 3,000-nit display you can see in sunlight

• Tough 95% recycled titanium build

• Action Button you can set up for quick access

• Long 36-hour battery life (72 hours in Low Power Mode)

• Dual-frequency GPS for better tracking

• Works in water up to 100m with scuba features to 40m

• Loud 86dB emergency siren for safety

• Every model comes with cellular

Cons:

• Costs a lot more ($799) than other Apple watches

• Not much better than the first Ultra

• Other sports watches last longer

• Works best with iPhone 15 or newer for UWB precision

• Maps don't work without your phone

• The 49mm case might be too big for some people

Apple Watch Ultra 2 Pricing

Here's what you'll pay for the Ultra 2:

Unlike the Apple Watch Series 10 or SE 2, cellular comes standard with every Ultra 2. You can sometimes find deals - Amazon had some models for $730, saving you $69.

Trading in your old watch can save you money. Apple gives up to $385 for eligible trades, while Best Buy offers up to $325 off with qualifying watches.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 Best For

The Ultra 2 really shines for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers who want something tough with a long battery life. People who spend lots of time hiking, diving, or doing endurance sports will love its rugged build and special sensors.

Water sports fans get great value from the 100-meter water resistance, depth gage, and water temperature sensors - things you won't find in the Fitbit Versa 4 or most other watches. Hikers will appreciate the precise dual-frequency GPS and custom waypoints.

The sort of thing I love about the Ultra 2 is how it appeals to tech fans who want better battery life without giving up smart features. One reviewer called it perfect for "tech nerds who love everything about their regular Apple Watch except for the fact they have to charge it daily".

On top of that, it makes a great watch for emergency situations. The loud 86dB siren, crash detection, and tough build give you peace of mind when you're off the grid or in risky spots.

The Ultra 2 hits a sweet spot. While the Withings ScanWatch 2 lasts longer and the Garmin Venu 3 has more detailed sports tracking, the Ultra 2 combines premium smartwatch features with outdoor capabilities better than anything else for iPhone users who don't mind spending more.

Withings ScanWatch 2

Image Source: Pocketnow

The Withings ScanWatch 2 takes a fresh approach to smartwatch design for iPhone users. It's quite different from Apple's wearable lineup. My extensive testing shows this hybrid smartwatch strikes a perfect balance between classic timepieces and modern health tracking tech.

Withings ScanWatch 2 Key Features

The ScanWatch 2 sports a classic analog watch face paired with a small 0.63-inch grayscale OLED display (282 PPI). You'll see your notifications and health stats here. The watch looks like a regular timepiece but packs smart features under its hood.

Withings' exclusive TempTech24/7 Module sits at the heart of this device. This tech tracks your body temperature changes around the clock. You'll know when you might be getting sick or if you're pushing too hard during workouts through three temperature zones.

The battery life puts the Apple Watch Series 10 to shame. You'll get 30 days between charges. No more nightly charging routines that most other smartwatches demand.

Health tracking is robust. The watch has FDA-approved ECG monitoring that detects atrial fibrillation, measures blood oxygen, analyzes sleep patterns, and tracks temperature 24/7. Sleep tracking accuracy matches clinical polysomnography standards.

The watch works with iPhones running iOS 16 or later. It blends right into the iPhone ecosystem through Apple Health integration.

Withings ScanWatch 2 Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Amazing 30-day battery life

• Premium build with sapphire glass and stainless steel

• FDA-cleared ECG readings

• Round-the-clock temperature tracking

• Survives water depths up to 50 meters

• Works smoothly with Apple Health

• Perfect for those who want a subtle smartwatch

Cons:

• Tiny OLED screen limits what you can see

• Needs your phone for GPS tracking

• Shows fewer notifications than full smartwatches

• Won't work with pacemakers

• Costs more than similar options

• Charging cradle feels cheap and needs careful handling

Withings ScanWatch 2 Pricing

Here's what you'll pay for the ScanWatch 2:

The 38mm version comes in Silver Black, Silver White, Rose Gold Sand, and Rose Gold Blue. The 42mm sticks to Silver Black and Silver White options.

You'll get three months of Withings+ free. After that, it's $9.95 monthly or $99.50 yearly if you want to keep it. The good news? The watch works fine without this subscription.

Withings ScanWatch 2 Best For

This watch shines for iPhone users who want great battery life and classic watch looks. It's a better fit than the Apple Watch SE 2 or bulky Garmin Venu 3 if you prefer your tech subtle.

Health enthusiasts will love the temperature tracking and detailed sleep analysis. The FDA-approved ECG makes it particularly valuable for anyone monitoring heart health.

Style-conscious professionals will appreciate how this watch transitions from boardroom to casual settings. Unlike the sporty Fitbit Versa 4, it maintains an elegant look throughout.

The ScanWatch 2 hits the sweet spot for iPhone users. You get traditional watch styling, detailed health tracking, and fantastic battery life. Plus, it plays nice with your Apple devices.

Garmin Venu 3

Image Source: PhoneArena

The Garmin Venu 3 is a feature-rich alternative that iPhone users will love, especially those who want great fitness tracking and long battery life. This smartwatch strikes a perfect balance between advanced health metrics and simple smart features. It outperforms Apple's offerings in endurance and specialized fitness data.

Garmin Venu 3 Key Features

A vivid AMOLED touchscreen display adorns the Venu 3 (1.4" on the 45mm model and 1.2" on the 41mm 3S model) with brightness reaching up to 1,000 nits. The battery life amazes users by lasting up to 14 days in standard smartwatch mode. You'll get 5 days of use with the always-on display.

Garmin's latest Elevate Gen 5 heart rate sensor powers this fitness-focused watch. It delivers detailed sleep tracking with Sleep Coach functionality. The watch even detects naps and monitors HRV status. Users can access over 30 sports apps, and wheelchair users get specialized modes too.

You can make phone calls through the built-in speaker and microphone when paired with your iPhone. The 8GB storage fits about 1,500 songs from Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube Music. This means you can listen without your phone.

Garmin Venu 3 Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Battery life that lasts 7-14 days based on use

• Detailed health metrics with no subscription needed

• Morning Report and Body Battery features add value

• Water resistant to 5 ATM (50 meters)

• Download music to listen offline

Cons:

• iPhone functionality is limited (no custom text responses)

• Plastic build feels less premium than rivals

• Smaller app ecosystem compared to Apple Watch Series 10

• Users report slow app downloads

• On-wrist texting works only with Android phones

Garmin Venu 3 Pricing

Amazon and other retailers have dropped the price by $100. The watch ships with a silicone band, and you can choose from various colors.

Garmin Venu 3 Best For

Fitness enthusiasts who want detailed health tracking and long battery life will love the Venu 3. Users looking for in-depth sleep analysis don't need to charge it daily like the Apple Watch SE 2.

iPhone users seeking fitness-first functionality without Apple's ecosystem restrictions will find this watch perfect. Unlike the Withings ScanWatch 2, it delivers a complete smartwatch experience with much longer battery life than Apple's devices.

The Venu 3 shines for users who need extended tracking without daily charging. It's perfect for multi-day adventures and people tired of plugging in their watch every night.

Fitbit Versa 4

Image Source: Tom's Guide

The Fitbit Versa 4 sits right in the middle of the smartwatch market. This fitness-focused device works naturally with iPhones. My tests show it hits the sweet spot between simple smartwatch features and detailed health tracking.

Fitbit Versa 4 Key Features

The Versa 4 sports a slim, lightweight build at just 5.6 ounces with a comfortable silicone band. A bright color display adorns its square face with gently curved glass screen.

Battery life stands out impressively - a single charge lasts over 6 days. A quick 12-minute charge gives you a full day of use.

The Versa 4 packs solid health features. You get heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking with stages, SpO2 monitoring, and skin temperature variation tracking. The watch supports more than 40 exercise modes and built-in GPS tracks your pace and distance without needing your phone.

You can swim and shower with it thanks to its 50-meter water resistance. Amazon Alexa handles voice commands, and you can take Bluetooth calls right on your wrist when your phone is close.

Fitbit Versa 4 Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Comfortable, slimline design

• Excellent sleep tracking with sleep stages

• Built-in GPS for phone-free tracking

• Voice commands with Alexa

• Fast charging capability

• 6+ day battery life

Cons:

• Heart rate monitor can be inaccurate

• No third-party apps

• Limited smartwatch functionality compared to Apple Watch Series 10

• iPhone users cannot respond to messages on the watch

• Doesn't properly track Active Zone Minutes

Fitbit Versa 4 Pricing

The Versa 4 started at $229.99. The price now sits at $199.95, though sales often drop it to around $150.

Fitbit Versa 4 Best For

Casual fitness fans will love the Versa 4. It delivers simple tracking without the complexity of an Apple Watch Ultra 2. People who care about sleep tracking and long battery life more than advanced smartwatch features will find it perfect.

The Garmin Venu 3 might last 14 days, and the Withings ScanWatch 2 might look like a traditional watch. Yet the Versa 4 strikes an affordable balance with enough fitness features for daily use.

The device shines as a fitness tracker with smart capabilities rather than a full smartwatch. iPhone users who want simplicity and longer battery life than the Apple Watch SE 2 will find their match here.

CMF Watch Pro 2

Image Source: Nothing

The CMF Watch Pro 2 challenges traditional premium wearables with its impressive features at a price that won't break the bank. My tests show this budget-friendly device from Nothing's sub-brand proves you don't need deep pockets to own a quality smartwatch.

CMF Watch Pro 2 Key Features

A crisp 1.32" AMOLED display (466x466 resolution) with 620 nits brightness sits at the heart of this device. The aluminum alloy case lets you swap bezels to match your style. The battery lasts an impressive 11 days with regular use, and this is a big deal as it means that it runs much longer than the Apple Watch Series 10.

Athletes can choose from 120 sports modes, and the watch automatically recognizes 5 common activities. The multi-system GPS tracks your location accurately without your phone. Health features track your heart rate, SpO2, sleep patterns, and stress levels.

The watch connects to iPhones (iOS 13+) through Bluetooth 5.3. You can make calls with AI noise reduction and customize your widget screens.

CMF Watch Pro 2 Pros and Cons

Pros:

• A steal at just $69

• Outstanding 11-day battery life (up to 45.8 days in power saving mode)

• Durable aluminum alloy build

• Personalized look with swappable bezels

• IP68 water resistance survives 30 minutes in 1.5m water

• Works with both iOS and Android

Cons:

• No NFC for contactless payments

• Not suitable for swimming/water activities

• Auto-brightness needs fine-tuning

• Fewer notification options than the Garmin Venu 3

• No workout data image sharing

CMF Watch Pro 2 Pricing

The price stays consistent across regions:

You can pick from four colors: Blue, Ash Gray, Orange, and Dark Gray. Extra bezels and straps cost $12 each.

CMF Watch Pro 2 Best For

This watch shines as a starter option for newcomers who want simple features without spending big money on the Withings ScanWatch 2 or Fitbit Versa 4.

We found it works best for budget-conscious iPhone users who value long battery life over advanced features. Users who need simple fitness tracking and basic smart functions will find great value here.

The CMF Watch Pro 2 helps you start learning about wearable tech before moving up to more advanced options like the Apple Watch SE 2.

Comparison Table

Conclusion

These seven smartwatches really show how iPhone users have more choices than ever before. The Apple Watch Series 10 leads the pack as a premium all-rounder. Its sleek design and complete health features make it stand out. The Apple Watch SE 2 gives you great core features at a price that's available to more people.

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is built tough with amazing battery life. It's perfect if you're into outdoor adventures. Looking for something that looks like a classic watch? The Withings ScanWatch 2 might be your thing. You won't need to charge it for 30 days either.

Serious about fitness? The Garmin Venu 3 tracks everything you need and runs for 14 days straight. The Fitbit Versa 4 hits a sweet spot between features and price. Want to save money? Take a look at the CMF Watch Pro 2. At just $69, it does way more than you'd expect.

The best watch for you depends on what matters most. Maybe it's smooth iPhone integration, long battery life, fitness tracking, or premium build quality. Our comparison table above helps you pick based on these features. These watches are the best in their categories for 2025. You'll definitely find one that fits your needs perfectly.

FAQs

Q1. What is the best smartwatch for iPhone users in 2025? The Apple Watch Series 10 is considered the best overall smartwatch for iPhone users in 2025. It offers seamless integration with iOS, advanced health tracking features, and a sleek design. However, other options like the Apple Watch SE 2 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 are also excellent choices depending on your specific needs and budget.

Q2. Are there any good alternatives to Apple Watch for iPhone users? Yes, there are several good alternatives to Apple Watch for iPhone users. Some top options include the Garmin Venu 3 for fitness enthusiasts, the Withings ScanWatch 2 for those preferring a traditional watch esthetic, and the Fitbit Versa 4 for a more affordable option with solid health tracking features.

Q3. How long does the battery last on the latest smartwatches? Battery life varies significantly between models. The Apple Watch Series 10 typically lasts about 18 hours, while the Apple Watch Ultra 2 can last up to 36 hours. The Withings ScanWatch 2 boasts an impressive 30-day battery life, and the Garmin Venu 3 can last up to 14 days in smartwatch mode.

Q4. What features should I look for in a smartwatch in 2025? Key features to consider include health and fitness tracking capabilities, battery life, display quality, water resistance, and compatibility with your smartphone. Advanced features like ECG monitoring, blood oxygen measurement, and built-in GPS are also becoming standard in high-end models.

Q5. Is there a budget-friendly smartwatch option for iPhone users? Yes, the CMF Watch Pro 2 offers impressive functionality at a fraction of the cost of most competitors. Priced at just $69, it provides basic smartwatch features, decent battery life, and compatibility with iOS. The Apple Watch SE 2 is another relatively affordable option that offers core Apple Watch functionality at a lower price point than the flagship models.