Have you ever wanted to track your daily steps or been intrigued by the shiny smartwatch displays in an Apple store? 20% of Americans wear some sort of smartwatch or fitness tracker every day, and as these technologies improve, usage will only increase. Choosing an accessory that you’ll wear every day is a big decision, especially when there’s potentially a hefty price tag involved.

So, what’s the difference between the two, and which one is right for you? We’ll break down the key differences, compare features, and recommend who should buy what.

How Are Smartwatches and Smartbands Similar?

Both smartwatches and smartbands are a type of wearable technology worn on the wrist. They both use sensors to determine activity levels, movement, heart rate, and more, and their overall design is relatively similar, as they wrap around your wrist with a band and have a screen display.

When smartwatches and smartbands first entered the market several years ago, they were vastly different. Smartbands were incredibly basic, while smartwatches offered more features. However, smartbands and fitness trackers have significantly increased their functionality, making many options feel close to a smartwatch. Many smartbands have highly visual displays and might even be able to make calls.

How Are Smartwatches and Smartbands Different?

A smartwatch is often viewed as an extension of your smartphone thanks to its feature-heavy capability. Smartwatches allow you to make calls, send texts, and check your calendar or social media, and they often combine the features of a fashion accessory, fitness tracker, and light smartphone. On the other hand, smartbands often have simpler designs and features and are focused more specifically on health and fitness.

Smartband vs. Smartwatch Feature Comparison

Size

Wearing something around your wrist 24/7 is a big commitment, and the size and weight of a smartwatch or smartband come into play when making that decision. Smartbands are often lighter, slimmer, and sleeker, making them more comfortable to wear every day. For example, the Nubia smartwatch offers a huge 4-inch display, while the