The Top 5 Smartwatches You Need to Know About in 2025
Apple, Samsung, OnePlus & Pebble Battle for Your Wrist
Smartwatches are no longer just tiny screens strapped to your wrist that buzz for texts. In 2025, they’ve become powerful, health-focused, style-savvy tech companions. Whether you’re deep into the Apple ecosystem, a loyal Android user, or a nostalgic Pebble fan, this year’s smartwatch offerings are shaping up to be the best yet.
Here’s a breakdown of the 5 best smartwatches of 2025, what makes them stand out, and why now might be the perfect time to upgrade your wristwear.
⌚ 1. Apple Watch Series 10 (new or Not, It’s a Beast)
If you’ve had your eye on the Apple Watch Series 10 but found the price a bit steep, Apple has you covered. As of June 2025, the company is officially offering new Series 10 models at a 15% discount through its U.S. store. That means you can grab the ultra-sleek 46mm Jet Black aluminum or premium Slate titanium version at significantly lower prices.
What’s impressive? These new units go through rigorous Apple testing, making them just as reliable as new. They’re eligible for AppleCare+, come with a full 1-year warranty, and include all the features you’d expect from Apple’s flagship wearable: health tracking, crash detection, temperature sensors, and deep iPhone integration.
🟢 Pro Tip: If you’ve waited, now might be the smartest (and most affordable) time to grab a Series 10.
⌚ 2. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4: A Classic Nearing the Finish Line
The Galaxy Watch 4 once ruled the Android smartwatch world. With its sleek design, solid performance, and timeless aesthetics, it was everything a smartwatch should be. But now, as One UI 8 Watch prepares to launch with the Galaxy Watch 8, Samsung’s fourth-gen wearable is starting to show its age.
Recent beta releases suggest the Galaxy Watch 4 may miss out on major updates, meaning it could stop receiving new features soon. While security updates might continue, the writing’s on the wall—Samsung is slowly phasing this one out.
That said, if you already own it, there’s still plenty of life left. But for new buyers? You may want to aim for the Watch 6 or upcoming Watch 8 instead.
🔴 Pro Tip: If you\’re offered a Galaxy Watch 4 on discount, weigh that price against future software support.
⌚ 3. OnePlus Watch 3 (43mm): Smaller Size, Same Flagship Feel
OnePlus is known for delivering flagship features without the flagship price—and the OnePlus Watch 3 (43mm) is no exception. Officially launching in the U.S. on July 8, 2025, this downsized version of the original Watch 3 is perfect for those who prefer a more compact wearable.
Despite the smaller frame, you still get all the good stuff: robust battery life, accurate GPS, health & wellness tracking, and a stylish Silver Steel finish. It’s essentially the Watch 3, just friendlier for slimmer wrists.
Even better? OnePlus is offering a $30 discount for early subscribers on their website. If you’ve been waiting to buy a versatile, Wear OS-powered smartwatch, this might just be your ideal fit.
🟢 Pro Tip: It’s rare to find a stylish, compact smartwatch that doesn’t skimp on features—this is one of them.
⌚ 4. Pebble Core 2 Duo: The Comeback We Didn’t Expect
Let’s be honest—Pebble fans have had a rough few years. After Fitbit pulled the plug on Pebble support back in 2018, most users were left sideloading outdated apps to keep their watches running. But in 2025, Pebble is back—well, sort of.
Eric Migicovsky, the original Pebble founder, is launching the Core 2 Duo, a brand-new watch designed for both modern users and nostalgic fans. Even better? The accompanying mobile app works with old Pebble models like the Time, Time Steel, and Pebble 2.
Beta testers are already getting their hands on early units, and a more premium version, the Core 2 Time, is expected later this year with a touchscreen and added fitness features.
🟢 Pro Tip: If you still own an old Pebble, dust it off—your favorite retro smartwatch just became relevant again.
⌚ 5. Wear OS Watch Faces: Say Goodbye to Old Favorites
While not a specific watch, this update affects every Wear OS user out there. Google is rolling out the Watch Face Format (WFF) as the new standard for all watch faces on the Play Store. This XML-based format eliminates executable code, which leads to better battery life and less code bloat.
As of January 14, 2026, all legacy watch faces using AndroidX or the Wearable Support Library will be removed from the Play Store. If you have an old favorite, it’ll still work—but developers won’t be able to update it anymore.
The good news? Apps like Facer and Pujie are preparing their own custom watch face marketplaces, so customization isn’t going away—it’s just evolving.
🔴 Pro Tip: Update your favorite watch faces while you still can, or explore WFF-compatible ones for better performance.
🧠 Smartwatch Trends to Watch in 2025
Now that we’ve explored the top contenders, let’s zoom out. What are the biggest trends shaping smartwatches in 2025?
📱 1. Ecosystem Integration
Whether it’s Apple’s seamless iOS pairing or Pebble’s backward compatibility, the smartwatch game is now more about ecosystem loyalty than just specs.
🔋 2. Battery Life Boosts
From XML-based watch faces to efficient chipsets, manufacturers are pushing hard for longer battery lives—without sacrificing features.
🛒 3. new & Affordable Flagships
Thanks to Apple’s and others’ certified refurb programs, premium watches are now within reach for more users. Expect this segment to grow even more.
🔧 4. Software Updates & Support
As seen with the Galaxy Watch 4, long-term software support is becoming a make-or-break factor for smartwatches. Always ask: “How long will this be supported?”
🔊 5. Health & Fitness Innovation
New sensors, better sleep tracking, temperature readings—2025 is all about giving users more control over their personal wellness.
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