Are you in the market for a new wearable technology device to help track your fitness goals or just keep you connected to the world? With so many options out there, it's hard to know which type of device is right for you. In this blog post, we'll compare and contrast fitness tracker watches and smartwatches so you can decide which is the best fit for your lifestyle.
Fitness tracking capabilities
Fitness tracker watches and smartwatches are both excellent for tracking fitness goals, but a fitness tracker watch is designed with fitness enthusiasts in mind.
Fitness Tracker Watch - Fitness tracker watches come equipped with heart rate monitors, pedometers, and GPS tracking capabilities, making them a great option for hikers, runners, and cyclists. They can also monitor your sleep routine and provide feedback on your overall health. According to a study conducted by the American Council on Exercise, fitness tracker watches were found to be more accurate in tracking heart rate, calories burned, and steps taken, compared to smartwatches.
Smartwatches - Smartwatches have a wide range of features beyond fitness tracking. They often include features like text messaging, social media notifications, and phone calls. Smartwatches also have the ability to track your fitness goals, but they may not have the same level of accuracy as fitness tracker watches.
Battery life
One of the biggest differences between fitness tracker watches and smartwatches is battery life.
Fitness Tracker Watch - Fitness tracker watches typically have a longer battery life than smartwatches. Some models can last for up to a year on a single battery charge.
Smartwatches - Smartwatches, on the other hand, usually have shorter battery life, averaging between one and three days. This is due to their additional features like color displays, touch screens, and always-on functions.
Price
Price is always an important factor to consider when making a purchase. In general, fitness tracker watches tend to be less expensive than smartwatches.
Fitness Tracker Watch - Entry-level fitness tracker watches start around $50, with high-end models topping out around $300.
Smartwatches - Entry-level smartwatches start around $150, with high-end models costing upwards of $1,000.
Summary
In conclusion, both fitness tracker watches and smartwatches have their merits. Fitness tracker watches are ideal for fitness enthusiasts who desire accurate tracking and robust battery life. Smartwatches are a better fit for those who want a device that can do more than just track fitness goals. Ultimately, deciding which one to purchase depends on your personal preference, budget, and lifestyle.
References
- ACE Study Reveals Most Accurate Wearable Fitness Trackers. American Council on Exercise. https://www.acefitness.org/education-and-resources/lifestyle/blog/6597/ace-study-reveals-most-accurate-wearable-fitness-trackers/.
- The Best Fitness Trackers for 2022. PCMag. https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-fitness-trackers.
- The Best Smartwatches for 2022. PCMag. https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-smartwatches.