When it comes to pairing with an iPhone 13, the Apple Watch undeniably reigns as the go-to choice. It’s practically a given. If you’re perusing this article, chances are you’ve moved past considering the Apple Watch Series 7 and its predecessors, perhaps in search of something more budget-friendly or tailored to specific interests. Alternatively, you might prefer a smartwatch with a more conventional, less square design.
Here, we’ll delve into everything except the Apple Watch, assuming you’re already well-acquainted with its features. However, we must note that despite exploring other options, we still recommend the Apple Watch Series 7 for its unparalleled integration within Apple’s ecosystem.
Furthermore, in an effort to maintain its watches’ competitive edge, the tech giant imposes limitations on non-Apple watches, restricting access to their full range of features. Consider Garmin watches, for instance. When paired with an iPhone, users are unable to respond to texts or calls with customized messages. This holds true for the iPhone 13 Series as well.
Best Smartwatches For iPhone 13 Reviews
The smartwatches featured in this compilation are fully compatible with the following iPhone models:
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
It’s important to note that compatibility extends beyond these specific models to encompass the entire range of iPhones, including the 12 Series, 11 Series, and even as far back as the iPhone 7 Series.
Without delay, let’s dive into our comprehensive list of handpicked smartwatches.
1. Amazfit GTS 2 Mini
The Amazfit GTS 2 Mini presents itself as an excellent and budget-friendly choice for iPhone 13 users. Boasting an AMOLED display, it delivers unparalleled contrast and sharpness in visuals, a feature uncommon even among high-end watches like the Fitbit Ionic or Garmin Fenix series.
While the watch seamlessly integrates with both iOS and Android devices, it’s worth noting that some functionalities may be limited when paired with an iPhone.
Trade-offs were inevitable to maintain affordability. Additionally, for those who prefer a traditional round watch face, the square design might not appeal to them.
The device’s heart rate monitor not only tracks heart rate but also monitors stress levels, sleep cycles using advanced algorithms, and even measures blood oxygen levels. It features a sedentary reminder that prompts users to move with strong vibrations. Moreover, it offers an extensive selection of 90+ sports modes.
One of its standout features is the impressive battery life, surpassing that of the Apple Watch. With regular usage, including GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and occasional workouts, users can expect the GTS 2 Mini to last nearly two weeks on a single charge, making it an ideal companion for extended use without frequent recharging.
2. Garmin Forerunner 245 Music
The Garmin Forerunner 245 Music stands out as one of the most feature-rich watches in our selection, particularly catering to sports enthusiasts, especially runners. Serving as an upgrade to its predecessor, the 235 model, it maintains a similar lightweight design while introducing enhanced features such as expanded music storage capacity, Spotify integration, and NFC payment capabilities.
Equipped with high-quality sensors, the Forerunner 245 Music delivers exceptional performance. It incorporates an Optical Heart Rate Monitor, GPS + GLONASS sensor for precise location tracking, and a variety of dedicated sport profiles tailored to different workout activities. From running (including treadmill, indoor track running, and trail running) to cycling (indoors), swimming, strength training, cardio workouts, elliptical training, stair stepping, indoor rowing, and yoga, this watch offers comprehensive tracking options.
Beyond tracking sports metrics, the Forerunner 245 Music ensures holistic monitoring of your well-being. It monitors sleep patterns, stress levels, blood oxygen saturation, and heart rate, providing valuable insights even during recovery periods.
While its battery life doesn’t match the longevity of the Amazfit GTS, it still offers respectable performance, lasting up to one week on a single charge under normal usage conditions. However, engaging in GPS-based activities significantly reduces battery life, with continuous GPS tracking draining the battery within approximately 24 hours, and even faster—around 6 hours—when using music playback simultaneously.
3. Fitbit Versa 3
For those seeking advanced fitness and health tracking capabilities without the Apple Watch price tag, the Fitbit Versa 3 and Fitbit Sense emerge as compelling alternatives. Notably, the Fitbit Sense offers ECG tracking, adding an extra layer of health monitoring sophistication. A primary advantage these models boast over the Apple Watch is their comprehensive sleep and fitness data tracking features, coupled with a more affordable price point.
In terms of aesthetics, the colors and finishes of both the Fitbit Versa 3 and Fitbit Sense harmonize seamlessly with the design palette of the iPhone 13, ensuring a cohesive visual appeal when paired together.
Functionally, these smartwatches autonomously track daily activities such as walking or running in real-time, complemented by built-in GPS and vibrant AMOLED displays akin to those found in the Apple Watch. Their lightweight design and user-friendly interfaces enhance their appeal, offering a user experience reminiscent of Apple’s flagship wearable.
Additional features include Fitbit Pay support for convenient transactions, music storage and streaming via platforms like Deezer and Pandora, and voice assistant integration with both Alexa and Google Assistant. While the ability to answer calls directly from the wrist is possible, it’s worth noting that this feature is limited to non-iOS devices and requires the smartphone to be connected.
Furthermore, the battery life of these Fitbit models is commendable, lasting approximately four days on a single charge, though actual duration may vary based on usage patterns.
4. Garmin Venu 2
If the transflective display of the Forerunner 245 doesn’t meet your preferences, a fantastic alternative worth considering is the Garmin Venu 2. Additionally, for those with smaller wrists, the Venu 2S offers a more fitting option.
The Venu 2 boasts an AMOLED display and boasts nearly identical health and fitness features as the Forerunner 245. What sets it apart is the inclusion of the latest Elevate Sensor, greatly enhancing health and sleep tracking capabilities on Garmin devices. Moreover, Garmin has introduced elite modes such as indoor climbing, bouldering, and high-intensity interval training to the watch’s repertoire.
One of the standout features of the Venu 2 is its user interface, which has been meticulously refined to complement the vibrant display. On-screen animations inherited from the original Venu prove particularly helpful for users, especially beginners.
Another noteworthy improvement is the expanded music storage capacity, now at 650 songs compared to the 500 songs of the FR 245 Music and the original Venu.
Lastly, the Venu 2 boasts an impressive battery life of almost two weeks on a single charge, though this duration may vary depending on the watch’s size.
5. Withings Steel HR Hybrid
The Withings Steel HR Hybrid perfectly complements the sleek design of the iPhone 13, making it an ideal companion for those seeking both style and functionality. From the moment I unboxed this hybrid smartwatch, I was impressed by its elegant aesthetics and seamless integration with my iPhone 13. The stainless steel case exudes sophistication, while the customizable watch face allows me to personalize my device to suit my taste.
In terms of functionality, the Steel HR Hybrid excels in effortlessly blending the classic appeal of an analog watch with the modern features of a smartwatch. The built-in heart rate monitor, activity tracking, and sleep monitoring capabilities provide valuable insights into my overall health and fitness levels. Moreover, the watch seamlessly syncs with the Health Mate app on my iPhone 13, allowing me to conveniently track my progress and set goals.
One standout feature of the Steel HR Hybrid is its impressive battery life, which lasts up to 25 days on a single charge. This ensures that I can stay connected and informed throughout my day without constantly worrying about recharging my device. Whether I’m receiving notifications, tracking my workouts, or monitoring my sleep patterns, the Withings Steel HR Hybrid delivers a seamless and intuitive user experience that enhances my daily routine.
Final Word
Numerous smartwatches on the market are compatible with the iPhone 13, but among them, these five strike the optimal balance between features and affordability.
While we intentionally exclude the Apple Watch from this selection, we strongly recommend considering Apple’s proprietary watch. With it, you gain access to identical apps as those on your iPhone 13 and enjoy the seamless integration afforded by Apple’s ecosystem.
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