The sub-Rs 30,000 price band is the zone of premium smartwatches. Expect better features and durability. If you’re looking for an upgrade, you still need to apply the same logic that you would for any smartwatch. Compatibility is a big factor, look for wearables that will work with your preferred smartphone platform (Android or iOS). Battery life is a key consideration too — displays and battery-intensive features like GPS can tip the scale. And then there’s style and aesthetics. Most premium smartwatches allow you to swap straps and bands that complement your style. We pick the best buys under Rs 30,000:
Apple Watch SE
The best option for iPhone users at this price point. It’s also one of the wearables at this price point that offers standalone cellular connectivity. You can leave your iPhone at home and stay connected to calls, texts and your favourite online music whether you’re at the gym or outdoors. You get access to the latest iteration of Watch OS and Apple’s bottomless app ecosystem. This swim-proof smartwatch also offers some wellness features like high and low heart rate notifications and cycle notifications.
Price: Rs 29,900 onwards
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5
This is one of our favourite Google Wear OS watches out there. The Watch 5 duo comes in two options that include a pricier Watch 5 Pro with its rugged exteriors. The Watch 5 exudes a sporty vibe and is kitted with multiple wellness features and sensors. One of the talking points is the temperature sensor that uses infrared technology for more accurate readings, even if the temperature of your surroundings changes. Battery life also gets a boost over its predecessor.
Price: Rs 27,999 onwards
Fitbit Sense 2
Fitbit’s flagship smartwatch offers all the stuff we like about our Fitbits including support for both iPhones and Android smartphones. It’s one of few wearables under 30K with an ECG monitor and can also track your skin temperature variations. The second-gen Sense includes a Body Response sensor, which measures cEDA for all-day stress management and also comes with a new physical button that improves the overall navigation experience. It also comes with a new sleep profile. We’d recommend a Fitbit Premium subscription (Rs 999/year) if you want more drilldown wellness data.
Price: Rs 24,999
Fossil Gen 6 Smartwatch
Fossil’s smartwatches have been a great advert for Google’s Wear OS. This one also comes with Spotify integration and Google Pay support. Fossil has made some key improvements over the fifth gen Fossil. There’s a handy fast charging feature that takes your smartwatch to 80% in 30 minutes flat. At its heart is the Snapdragon Wear 4100+ platform that delivers a zippier performance than it’s predecessor. Fossil is a lifestyle-first brand — this one comes with support for swappable straps and also offers a cool bunch of watch faces.
Price: Rs 24,995
Garmin Vivomove Sport
The Vivomove Sport remains one of our favourite Garmin smartwatches. This one’s at the intersection of fashion and fitness. It’s also perfect for those who are not ready to ditch their favourite fashion watch just yet. Think of it as a hybrid smartwatch, one that features real ticking hands that move to show off a concealed touchscreen display. You get a slew of wellness features including Body Battery, Garmin’s unique energy monitor.
Price: Rs 20,490
Amazfit GTR 4
The first thing you will probably notice with the newest addition to Amazfit’s India line-up is the one-piece metallic frame and the bold stainless steel navigation crown. The other headline feature is the vivid 1.43-inch AMOLED display. Amazfit offers over 200-plus watch faces and an always-on feature for this large display. The GTR 4 comes with 150+ sports modes with smart recognition of eight sports as well as in-built GPS.
Price: Rs 16,999
