Price
One significant difference between a smartwatch and a fitness watch is the price. Smartwatches are often significantly more expensive than your average fitness tracker.Fitness trackers can start from as little as £19.00, whereas smart watches tend to be priced from around £54.99 with Apple and Samsung branded models averaging at around £200.
Fitness trackers are the ideal option for someone who is looking for basic features at an affordable price.
Features
We’ve created a side by side comparison of the features available on a Fitbit fitness tracker compared with a Fitbit smart watch.
Features available:
| FITBIT Charge 4 Fitness Tracker | FITBIT Versa 3 |
| Built-in GPS & heart rate monitor | Voice commands / smartphone notifications |
| Tracks Active Zone Minutes / steps / distance / calories / sleep | Contactless payments via Fitbit Pay |
| Smartphone notifications | Health & fitness tracking with heart rate monitor & GPS |
| Up to 7 days battery life | Battery life: 6+ days |
| Water resistant up to 50 m | Compatible with iOS / Android |
| Touchscreen | Water-resistant |
| Price: £89.99 | Price: £159.00 |
If you want extra added features, the Smartwatch is your best option. Smartwatches often link seamlessly with your smart phone and create an integrated experience.
The price of a smartwatch often reflects its capabilities. Apple’s most recent series 7 for example features the following new features:
- Larger display - 20% more screen area than the series 6.
- Blood oxygen sensor
- Workout detection
- Retina display is 2.5x brighter outdoors.
Purpose
When choosing between a smartwatch or fitness tracker it's important to consider the purpose of the watch. If you are looking to purchase a watch purely for fitness reasons, e.g., to track steps/workouts, then the fitness tracker may be the ideal choice.
If you are looking for a watch that can double up as a phone when on the go, as well as integrate the functionality of your smartphone then the smart watch will be your best bet.
Durability is a key difference between the smartwatch and the fitness watch and the level of durability you need will vary. For those looking for a watch to wear during sports, the nature of the sport should also aid your decision. For contact or high-risk sports such as surfing, rugby or rock climbing, to name a few, an expensive smart watch with a delicate glass screen might not be the best choice.
Protect your smartwatch/fitness tracker
Whether you end up choosing a smartwatch or fitness tracker, it’s important to give them the right protection when storing or travelling with them.
The Enigma I Peli Watch Case™ is ideal for storing your fitness tracker or smartwatch on the go and comes equipped with a carabiner clip for easy travel access.
Looking for something bigger? Shop our full range of watch cases here.