11 Top Standalone Smartwatches Review [2023]

When smartwatches were introduced, they were just extensions of phones, needing synchronization for full functionality. Unpaired with a phone, these smartwatches merely displayed the date and time. It was exciting back then but now time and technology both have changed.

The smartwatch market is experiencing substantial growth with numerous new innovations, including standalone smartwatches. These watches mostly equipped with eSIM, operate independently of smartphones.

What is a Standalone Smartwatch?

Standalone smartwatches offer far more than conventional smartwatches. With e-SIM support, they function autonomously, enabling music playback through connected headphones or built-in speakers. Some even feature cameras for video calls and capturing photos and videos.

Standalone smartwatches handle fundamental phone functions, such as making or receiving calls, sending messages, and responding to emails. Additionally, they boast health-centric features with sensors for heart rate monitoring, altimetry, and GPS for fitness tracking.

They also provide you the convenience of making payments without your cards as many come with NFC support. Basically, smartwatches with cellular connectivity are here to make your life easy.

Are standalone smartwatches worth buying?

In an era of smartphone addiction, standalone smartwatches offer respite, effectively functioning as basic phones and reducing reliance on smartphones. This gadget allows you to leave your smartphone behind without severing ties to the outside world. It’s a liberating choice for walks, jogs, gym sessions, and adventures.

There’s a diverse range of options available. Some standalone smartwatches are feature-packed, while others excel in fitness tracking, calling, messaging, and emailing. Their portability and compactness render them immensely useful, providing a discreet user experience. In essence, these ingeniously designed devices are certainly worth exploring.

Even if you’re new to the technology, investing in an affordable smartwatch with e-SIM support can be a rewarding decision. The experience is likely to leave you satisfied.

Top 11 Standalone Smartwatches in 2023

Here are the 11 best standalone smartwatches currently available. We’ve curated options across budgets and preferences to simplify your selection process.

#1 Apple Watch Series 8

The Apple Watch 8 stands as one of the most advanced standalone smartwatches in 2023. This premium timepiece boasts an array of compelling features, including ECG, blood oxygen measurement, activity tracking, and more. This strong watch is crack resistant.

Notably, it introduces a temperature sensor feature, a rarity among modern smartwatches. This sensor will track your temperature while you sleep. For ladies, it can provide accurate period predictions with wrist temperature data.

It offers 41mm and 44mm case sizes, accommodating various preferences.

Equipped with Apple’s watchOS 8.0, 1GB RAM, and 32GB storage capacity, this watch offers a vivid 1.9-inch retina display. It features an in-built microphone, speaker, and eSIM functionality for seamless communication. Its capabilities span from health monitoring, including menstrual cycle tracking, to mindfulness practices.

The Apple Watch 8 fosters motivation through guided exercise and easy data sharing with friends and family.

#2 Samsung Galaxy Watch6

The Samsung Galaxy Watch is a standout choice for both Android and iOS users. It is available in 44mm and 40mm versions. Its round dial, stainless-steel body, and Corning Gorilla Glass protection ensure durability.

It has a unique Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) sensor, that will check your body mass & fat percentage. These measurements will help you take a data-driven approach to monitoring your body

With an always-on AMOLED 1.3-inch display and a remarkable 40hrs battery life, it’s a fitness enthusiast’s companion. It has a massive 16GB internal storage space.

With 4G/LTE connectivity and built-in GPS, it’s a true standalone smartwatch. Running on wearOS, it’s ideal for those seeking a distinct experience.

#3 Google Pixel Watch

The Google Pixel Watch is a remarkable addition to the world of smartwatches, embodying the seamless integration of technology and style. It comes with a 41-millimeter LTPS display boasts a resolution of 400 x 400, ensuring sharp visuals and vibrant colors.

With its unique standalone capability, it sets itself apart from the competition. It is manufactured by Google, a pioneer in the tech industry, this watch carries the promise of innovation and performance.

From tracking calories to monitoring sleep patterns, it empowers users to prioritize their health.

If you seek a versatile and functional accessory that complements your modern lifestyle, the Pixel Watch is a perfect choice for you.

#4 Fossil Gen 5

The Fossil Gen 5 is an excellent standalone smartwatch tailored for sports enthusiasts. With its 1.28-inch AMOLED display, robust Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ Wear 3100.

It has 1 GB RAM and 8GB internal storage, which ensures smooth operation. This Smartwatch is powered with Wear OS by Google are compatible with all Android devices. You can all kinds of premium features like GPS, NFC, and WiFi here.

Supporting up to 4G LTE cellular connectivity, it facilitates calls, web browsing, and more. It integrates Google Fit for heart rate and activity tracking.

#5 Huawei Watch 3

The Huawei Watch 3 strikes a balance between sportiness and functionality. With up to 4G cellular connectivity and eSIM support, it offers impressive features. It has a rotating crown for easy scrolling through on-display features and volume settings.

Similar to Apple watches it is also equipped with a premium fall detection feature. If your watch detects a fall, it will switch to emergency mode and alert the designated contact number.

It runs on wearOS so that you can enjoy any games or apps on its app store.

While it excels in activity tracking with heart rate monitoring, GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and, it lacks temperature sensors. It comes with Interchangeable silicone straps and a long-lasting 14-day battery life!

#6 Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 LTE

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 3, a premium and lightweight smartwatch, stands among the best standalone options. Its 1.4-inch colorful display, 1.15GHz processor, 1.5GB RAM, and 8GB internal storage guarantee seamless performance.

With water-resistant and featuring a rotating bezel, it prioritizes both style and functionality. This smartwatch supports eSIM, enabling calls and smartphone-like features, even without your phone nearby.

Its health monitoring features and integrated speaker make it a comprehensive choice.

#7 Ticwatch Pro 4G

The TicWatch Pro is an impressive smartwatch with a sleek design. Boasting the ability to function as a standalone smartwatch, it takes connectivity to the next level.

This means you can make calls, send texts, and use data wherever you are, even without your phone nearby. This level of independence is a game-changer for those who are always on the move. It excels in battery life, offering up to 2 days in Smart Mode.

The inclusion of NFC payments through Google Pay™ adds a touch of convenience. You can make payments right from your wrist, making transactions a breeze.

#8 Zeblaze GTR 3

The Zeblaze GTR 3 boasts the appearance of a traditional watch combined with premium aesthetics at a moderate price. It has 1.32 inches colorful IPS display. Operating on Android 10 OS, its Helio P22 octa-core processor, 4GB RAM, and 64GB storage ensure powerful performance.

It comes with premium features like on wrist temperature monitor.

With an 830mAh battery, it’s ideal for prolonged usage with 15 days of battery life. Equipped with a voice assistant, fitness tracking capabilities, and 4G LTE connectivity, it stands as a complete standalone smartwatch.

#9 Kospet Hope 4G

The Kospet Hope 4G offers an impressive 3GB RAM and 32GB storage, complemented by 4G LTE cellular connectivity.

Its 8MP camera supports video calls and capturing moments. This Chinese smartwatch is equipped with sensors for heart rate monitoring and GPS, it excels in fitness tracking. While its battery life could be improved, it remains a solid choice.

#10 Apple Watch SE

For iPhone users seeking an economical standalone option, the Apple Watch Series SE presents a viable choice. This budget smartwatch comes with retina display.

Though not as advanced as Series 8, it offers fitness tracking, including heart rate and sleep monitoring.

With its variety of models, swim-proof design, and day-long battery life, it suits various preferences.

#11 Samsung Gear S3 Frontier

Though released three years ago, the Samsung Gear S3 Frontier remains competitive. With a robust, sporty build and MIL-STD-810G US Military Standard rating, it excels in durability.

This Samsung watch has a 1.3-inch super AMOLED display, 4G LTE connectivity, and remarkable battery life. Its fitness tracking capabilities and NFC support enhance its value.

FAQ

What is a standalone watch?

Standalone watches operates autonomously, equipped with its own cellular connectivity. It can function as a phone, make calls, send messages, and perform other tasks without needing to be paired with a smartphone.

Is there a smartwatch that doesn't need a phone?

Yes, standalone smartwatches don't require a phone for full functionality. They come with built-in cellular connectivity, allowing them to operate independently.

Can I use an Apple Watch as my only phone?

Yes, certain Apple Watch models (e.g. Watch Series 8) with cellular capabilities can be used as a standalone phone. They can make calls, send messages, and use data without needing an iPhone nearby.

Can I use a Samsung watch without a phone?

Yes, certain Samsung smartwatches with e-SIM capabilities can be used without a paired phone. These watches can make calls, send messages, and more directly from the watch, without relying on a smartphone.

Can you use a smartwatch without a SIM?

Yes of course! most of the smartwatches doesn't need any Sim card support to perform the basic tasks.

Is there a privacy issue with standalone smartwatches?

As with any connected device, privacy is a concern. Standalone smartwatches can transmit personal data through calls, messages, and apps. Ensuring strong security settings, using reliable brands, and being cautious with personal information is essential to minimize privacy risks.

Standalone Smartwatch Buying Guide:-

What to look for while buying a standalone smartwatch? here we have included some of the features which you can check while buying these smartwatches.

Design

It is very important to choose a design that fits perfectly on your wrists and is easy to operate with your fingers as it is going to accompany you the whole day.

If you have big fingers and you end up choosing a smartwatch with a small dial it will be a big hassle for you. Also, light and comfortable design is very important if you are into sports and other fitness activities.

Functionality

Today smartwatches are loaded with ample features to allure customers but before buying the product you should first think about what exactly are your needs.

Whether you want a smartwatch with calling features and other basic functions or a fitness-focused smartwatch with a SIM card.

Performance

When you look for a standalone smartwatch, smooth and lag-free performance becomes of utmost importance.

Of course, no one wants a smartwatch that doesn’t sound properly over calls or lags while navigating between apps.

Battery

Most of the standalone smartwatches have average battery life. A long-battery life becomes crucial if you are out for a few days on a hike or somewhere relying on your smartwatch for connectivity and navigation.

Smartwatches can be very annoying if it just runs out of battery in between. A single day battery life is enough for people who can charge it daily but it is a big no for outdoor enthusiasts.

SIM Card Support

Not all standalone smartwatches come with a SIM slot and nowadays some latest smartwatches offer eSIM features that eliminate the use of a SIM slot.

However, as these watches have a pre-programmed carrier in them so it can be quite a hassle if you want to change your carrier. So you should consider your needs before buying any smartwatch with a SIM card slot.

So this was the article related to the best standalone smartwatch along with the buying guide. If you have any queries regarding this article, write your question in the below comment section.