A connected watch is great. You can use it to listen to music, make calls, find your way by GPS, do sports... If the connected watch is waterproof, it's even better! You can use it everywhere and in extreme conditions. But which waterproof connected watch to choose? To help you, we've put together this buying guide.
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Our selection
"With the Amazfit GTR waterproof connected watch, Xiaomi has pulled off a real coup, all for around 100 euros. Thanks to its 5 ATM water…"
"With its functions related to the menstrual cycle and the monitoring of pregnancy phases, the AGPTEK LW11 is clearly aimed at women. In addition to…"
"The Galaxy Watch Active 2 is one of the most popular connected watches of the moment. In addition to its super stylish design, it has…"
"The Withings Steel HR is distinguished by an autonomy of 25 days after a full charge. It also allows accurate monitoring of physical constants, not…"
With the Amazfit GTR waterproof connected watch, Xiaomi has pulled off a real coup, all for around 100 euros. Thanks to its 5 ATM water resistance, you can wear it without any problem in contact with water.
80 £ on Amazon
With its functions related to the menstrual cycle and the monitoring of pregnancy phases, the AGPTEK LW11 is clearly aimed at women. In addition to its waterproofness, the price is a major argument.
32,79 £ on Amazon
The Galaxy Watch Active 2 is one of the most popular connected watches of the moment. In addition to its super stylish design, it has interesting functions and a more than correct autonomy.
216 £ on AmazonThe Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 has a touch screen with aluminum or steel coating and simulating a rotating ring. This makes it easier to navigate the menu and interact with the watch. With its 1.4 or 1.2 inch Super AMOLED display, it has a resolution of 360 pixels. This waterproof connected watch is powered by an Exynos 91110 processor, 0.75 GB of RAM and 4 GB of internal storage, making it super smooth to use.
Note the Bluetooth 5.0 wireless links and Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n 2.4 GHz. Compatible with Android and iOS, the Samsung Watch active 2 has a 340 mAh battery for the 44 mm version and 247 mAh for the 40 mm version. The autonomy can exceed 60 h in classic use and reach 130 h in energy saving mode. The One UI interface based on Tizen 4.0 allows you to arrange the applications and widgets as you wish. The Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 is IP68 and 5 ATM certified.
The Withings Steel HR is distinguished by an autonomy of 25 days after a full charge. It also allows accurate monitoring of physical constants, not to mention its 5 ATM waterproofing and its beautiful design.
120 £ on AmazonThe Withings Steel HR has a simple but elegant design. Its advantage lies in its battery capacity and therefore its autonomy. This can reach 25 days in full mode and 45 days in reserve mode with the time display and pedometer function activated. In addition, this waterproof connected watch is suitable for monitoring heart rate and sleep. It detects each phase of sleep of its wearer.
The Withings Steel HR connected waterproof watch can evolve with its owner. At the end of the day, you can find out how many calories you have burned, how far you have travelled since you woke up, etc. In short, get an overview of your state of fitness! Very resistant, it is certified IP68 and 5 ATM. You can enjoy the pool, a good shower and even a little diving without having to remove the watch from your wrist.
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The best waterproof connected watch in 2021
The best entry-level waterproof connected watch
The best high-end waterproof connected watch
A great waterproof connected watch
Your guide :
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| THE BEST | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | EXCELLENT | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
8/10 |
7/10 |
9/10 |
8/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
Xiaomi Amazfit GTR
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AGPTEK LW11
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Galaxy Watch Active 2
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Withings Steel HR
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With the Amazfit GTR waterproof connected watch, Xiaomi has pulled off a real coup, all for around 100 euros. Thanks to its 5 ATM water resistance, you can wear it without any problem in contact with water.
|
With its functions related to the menstrual cycle and the monitoring of pregnancy phases, the AGPTEK LW11 is clearly aimed at women. In addition to its waterproofness, the price is a major argument.
|
The Galaxy Watch Active 2 is one of the most popular connected watches of the moment. In addition to its super stylish design, it has interesting functions and a more than correct autonomy.
|
The Withings Steel HR is distinguished by an autonomy of 25 days after a full charge. It also allows accurate monitoring of physical constants, not to mention its 5 ATM waterproofing and its beautiful design.
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Screen size
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1.39 inch
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1.3 inch
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1.2 or 1.4 inches
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1.41 inch
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Autonomy
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24 days
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30 days
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6 days
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45 days
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Waterproofing
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5 ATM
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IP68
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5 ATM
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5 ATM
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Display area
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Circular
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Round
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Round
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Round
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Material
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Titanium alloy, stainless steel and aluminum alloy
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Silicone and metal dial (zinc alloy)
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Aluminum
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Leather, silicone or metal
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Waterproof connected watches come with a small IPxy or ATM rating. This is the protection and pressure resistance rating. The x in IP refers to dust. IP6 means that no dust can enter the device. The y refers to the water resistance. 5 means resistance to water jets, 6 to strong water jets.
With a "y" rated at 6 or higher, the waterproof connected watch can be immersed. However, even if the protection index seems high, it does not provide resistance against pressure at depth. We often notice a number before the ATM, this number has for unit one bar, it increases every 10 m of depth (for example, 3 ATM = waterproof to 30 m). Good to know, this indication is measured in water without movement.
The autonomy of a waterproof connected watch depends, in general, on the capacity of the battery. However, it is important to know that even if the battery of the watch has a good capacity, the autonomy can vary depending on the frequency of use and the apps used. Indeed, the more applications are used, the more the autonomy of the waterproof connected watch decreases.
Some applications are also energy consuming, especially those that require GPS. Why is the autonomy a criterion not to be neglected? In fact, the autonomy plays a role on the durability of the waterproof connected watch. The battery loses quality over time and can be very detrimental to the watch if the frequency of charging increases.
The real purpose of a connected watch has always been to accompany a smartphone. Of course, there are standalone connected watches on the market, among others, that no longer require a pairing to a smartphone. At the moment, watches that need to be paired with a phone are the most numerous on the market. This is why the compatibility of the watch with the cell phone is an element to consider. Pairing allows the watch to display certain data, for example, call notifications.
In return, the phone takes over the data recorded by the watch. But to do this, it is essential that the two devices are compatible. It should be noted that a watch and a smartphone of the same brand are more easily matched. However, there are waterproof connected watches of different brands that can be paired. Before acquisition, it is better to check the compatibility of the device.
Since you will wear the waterproof connected watch every day, you should consider the material that composes it. The materials should be comfortable to wear and water resistant. On the market, there are waterproof connected watches with a leather or silicone strap. Leather offers a vintage design, but after some time, associated with water, it gives off an unpleasant smell. Silicone is the most resistant to water, but its design is not as pleasant to look at as leather. In case you are thinking of changing your watch after 2 years, leather can do the trick.
For pairing, Bluetooth remains the most used link. The goal is to synchronize the waterproof connected watch and your smartphone. As explained above, the two devices must be compatible. It is also possible to connect via Wi-Fi to a waterproof connected watch. Thanks to this option, you will be able to share your exploits on social networks. The GPS and heart rate monitor allows you to follow a route and the heart rate of the wearer.
In general, a waterproof watch is accompanied by a note "waterproof" and "water-resistant". However, these simple notations do not affirm that this connected watch is really waterproof. It is therefore necessary to read the product sheet carefully, there should be an indication, a measurement indicated in bars, meters or atmospheres (ATM). This degree of waterproofness should be indicated on the dial of the device or on the case.
In the case where these indications are nowhere to be found, the designer has just indicated that this connected watch is waterproof. It may just be an indication that this watch is not at risk in case of an accident. But it surely can't be exposed to water for more than 3 seconds. Therefore, we cannot classify the connected watch as waterproof.
The pressure supported (expressed in bars) is of primary importance for a waterproof connected watch. On it depends its ability to resist water and deep immersion. The protection index is intended to tell you that this watch has the ability to withstand jets of water (a few seconds). It can not cope with immersion.
We're talking about connected watches that are resistant to water jets. These devices are rated IP65 and IP66. The 5 means that low intensity water jets cannot damage the device while the 6 indicates resistance to strong water jets. With an ATM of 1 to 3 bars, the waterproof connected watch is assured against splashes, rain and household work. But, take care to remove it before taking a shower.
The waterproof connected watch usable in a pool can immerse temporarily or continuously in water. Its IP rating reaches 67 or 68. With only 5 ATM, showering and swimming will be no problem, but watch out for dives. A 10 ATM watch allows for shallow freediving. However, avoid using the buttons in the water. And after swimming in the sea, don't forget to rinse the waterproof connected watch with fresh water and dry it well.
A waterproof connected watch can do everything that a non-waterproof connected watch can do. The real plus is obviously its waterproofness, in other words its resistance to water and dust. This robustness allows the watch to be used for a wider range of activities, especially outdoors. However, waterproof does not mean resistance to deep immersion.
The waterproof connected bracelet offers the same waterproofness as the waterproof connected watch. It is more discreet and lighter than the waterproof watch, which makes it more comfortable to wear. Its small size allows you to enjoy your sports sessions without embarrassment. Apart from the constant availability offered by this device, it is less accessible than the watch. Its screen is tiny, and there is no screen at all on some models!
In case you are interested in tracking your health and receiving message and GPS notifications, the waterproof connected watch is highly recommended. If you are a sports fan and you don't like to wear bulky accessories, it is better to opt for the waterproof connected bracelet.
Classified as a rugged connected watch, the waterproof connected watch has all the options of a connected watch. This device allows you to monitor your health through the data it delivers. The number of steps taken allows you to calculate the calories burned in a single day. The heart rate monitor promises a good follow-up of your heart rate.
If a classic watch only shows the time, the connected watch is able to provide you with the date, the time, your agenda and even an alarm clock. The waterproofing of the connected watch has pleased many users in this wave of covid. Indeed, you are no longer required to remove the watch to wash your hands, unlike a conventional watch.
One of the most common reasons to buy a waterproof connected watch is the possibility to receive call, message or social network notifications. Staying informed is a good thing, but avoid staring at the screens all the time. The waterproof connected watch is designed to help improve our lifestyle, not provide additional stress.
Some waterproof connected watches have a GPS function. This feature allows users to avoid getting lost in an unfamiliar place or finding their way around with a route. Many hikers use the GPS function when they go off the beaten track. And city dwellers can also use it to find their way around large cities.
One of the advantages of a waterproof connected watch is safety. This device offers the possibility to contact the emergency services in the wilderness or easily locate you in case of an accident. No need to take out the smartphone. There are even connected watches that can find your smartphone if you have lost it. By pressing a button, the phone vibrates which makes the search much easier.
In our opinion, the best brands of waterproof connected watches in 2022 are :
Apple is a stronghold of high-tech devices (smartphone, tablet, computer ...). The Cupertino firm does not hide it: it wants to accelerate progress. It is one of the leading manufacturers in terms of waterproof connected watch.
The Korean brand Samsung is not left behind when it comes to high-tech products, especially smartphones and all devices that can synchronize with them. Ever higher, Samsung's evolution never ceases to impress.
China's Huawei is a global telecommunications giant. In addition to telecom equipment (5G in particular), tablets, laptops and smartphones, the brand also produces connected watches, some of which are waterproof.
Founded only 10 years ago, Xiaomi continues to deploy its know-how in the global smartphone market. But a genius jack-of-all-trades, the Chinese brand has also tackled other sectors such as electric scooters and connected watches.
Agptek is a renowned international brand in the nomadic high-tech sector. It offers accessories such as Mp3 Players, portable speakers or even waterproof connected watches.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Avoid salt water, perfume and acids
Waterproof connected watches can withstand water pressure, but only to certain degrees. These devices have gaskets that ensure the waterproofness of the watch. Shocks and large temperature changes directly attack these gaskets and reduce the duration of the device's water resistance.
Avoid handling in water
Using the buttons in high-pressure areas can affect the water resistance of the connected watch. The seals may wear out faster and the watch loses its waterproof value.
Limit charging frequencies
To limit the charging frequency, make sure to use only the necessary applications in the watch. By decreasing the charging frequency of a waterproof connected watch as much as possible, the durability of the battery does not change, it may even increase.
Favor rubber straps
It is a material that goes very well with moisture. During swimming pools and diving, there will be no risk that it will deteriorate in contact with water.
Check the components of the waterproof connected watch's construction materials
It is necessary to take into account the construction materials of the waterproof connected watch to avoid falling on products that you are allergic.
This is one of the key features of a waterproof connected watch. The IP or Protection Index is an indication that the device is resistant to dust, shock and water jet incidents. The ATM or atmosphere tells you how much pressure this waterproof connected watch can withstand. The higher the number, the higher the capacity of this device in water.
Designers tend to write the word "waterproof" on connected watches, especially for those dedicated to children. Unfortunately, this indication does not affirm that this watch is actually waterproof when inserted in water. For showering, powerful water jets, diving and swimming pool, it is more than necessary to check the degree of pressure that this device can withstand.
Awaterproof connected watchcan make everyone happy. Indeed, these watches have the ability to stand up to water which makes them even more comfortable. Especially during Covid, washing your hands with a non-waterproof watch requires taking it off, drying your hands and then putting it back on. A waste of time and a waste of money in case it got wet.
A watch can be rated aswaterproof as long as it does not crack in the presence of water. If it takes soup or a splash of water and is still functional, it can be said to be waterproof. But in case you need a watch that can withstand even during your pool sessions, it is important to see the ATM rating of the watch. If the ATM is low enough, the watch may burst with higher pressure.
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