Smart devices can accompany us while running, at the gym, at work, and even while monitoring a child's activity 🤯. Cool, right? The question is, when is it worth investing in a smartwatch, and when will a smart band be enough for you? And here we, Mobile Vikings, come to help you choose. Let's begin!
Smartband vs. Smartwatch: What Are They For?
When we mentioned smart things at the beginning, we didn't mean heart-monitoring t-shirts or that glowing Tommy Hilfiger dress 👗 that Zendaya wore to one of the galas. We're talking about wearable devices called wearables. The most popular wearables include smartwatches and smartbands, which can be used in dozens of different ways. Their purpose is to support us at work and at the gym, help us maintain fitness, or even inform us about certain health parameters. They are part of a concept called the Internet of Things, where network-connected devices gather and process information precisely through internet.
A smartwatch, or smart watch, is currently one of the most popular wearables. Just a few years ago, it could be considered at best a stylish accessory for a smartphone, but thanks to the use of eSIM technology, it has risen to the rank of a true Bond-like gadget and can successfully replace some phone functions.
Advantages of Smartwatches and Smartbands
What do you gain by wearing a smartwatch on your wrist? Well, your smartphone doesn't always have to be at hand, and by pairing the device with your smart watch (via a dedicated app you download from the Google Play Store or App Store), all notifications will be displayed at your fingertips... or more precisely, on your wrist. You can also make phone calls, send messages, and use instant messengers from your smartwatch.
Let's move from convenient communication to slightly more serious matters, namely health 👩⚕️. A smartwatch can measure your heart rate and send an alert if something is wrong. Some models also measure blood oxygen saturation, blood pressure, and can even perform an EKG. Like in Bond, right? Unfortunately, no smartwatch has been equipped with a defibrillator yet, but that's probably just a matter of time. Although smartbands are dedicated to tracking workout quality, smartwatches also have these functions. A compass and built-in GPS allow you to measure pace and count the distance covered. They will also check the quality of your sleep.
Keeping up with the times, smartwatches are increasingly equipped with NFC modules, which are great for contactless payments 💰. If you're planning to buy a smartwatch for your child, make sure it has several location systems, the ability to work with a SIM card, an SOS button, or the ability to set up safe zones for your little one. These gadgets are great fun for children, but also a very helpful tool for parents in terms of child safety and contact with them.
See the article: Which smartwatch for a child to choose?
How is a Smartwatch Different from a Smartband?
At first glance, the two products differ primarily in price, but this is a very justified distinction. A smartwatch has many advanced features that smartbands do not. Therefore, their prices in stores can reach several thousand zlotys. Fitness trackers (smartbands) are much cheaper.
A smart band, like a watch, fits well on the wrist. It is narrower, and the display (most often) is within the strap, not exceeding its width. Because the screen is small, it can display less information than a smartwatch. Bands are great for training – they track your sports activities, monitor several health parameters, and monitor sleep quality. However, you cannot make calls, send SMS, or use instant messengers with them.
You can run, jump, fly, swim with them, as a certain Ambroży Kleks once advised. And then enjoy the ever-improving results achieved at the gym or pool. The water resistance of fitness bands declared by manufacturers can reach depths of up to 30 meters 🤿. They are made entirely of plastic, making them better suited for extreme conditions.
A smartwatch, on the other hand, can have, for example, a leather strap, steel or aluminum elements. It has more functions than a smartband. The eSIM option means it can replace a smartphone – it has the option to make calls, send SMS messages, and use instant messengers.
Band or Smartwatch: What Will You Choose?
Have you just fallen in love with running, are you training for a triathlon, or do you want to look like a gym demigod? Of course, nothing replaces regular training, but a smartband will be best for monitoring it. Discreet, functional, with a long-lasting battery, monitoring calorie burn and body function.
A smartwatch can also be useful for the above, but thanks to its formal design (some look almost identical to traditional watches), it is more suitable for work or during an evening out than for racking up more miles on water, land, and air. You know best in which of these places you feel most comfortable.
