Wearables have become a firm part of the modern tech enthusiast’s kit. Whether it is the utility of the smartwatch or the focus on health that fitness trackers provide, we’re partial to devices that provide more info than just the time. Although these devices aren’t our primary focus, many of us own a wearable. So, how has this past year shaped our wearable habits? I polled my colleagues to find out what devices they’ve used for the past year. Here are the wearables the Android Authority team members wore in 2023.
The results
Below, we’ve published the results organized by wearable brand, device model, and per-device ratings out of 10.
Google finally has a winner
The original Google Pixel Watch left plenty to be desired, and that was to be expected. Early rumors hinted at a half-baked yet aesthetically striking smartwatch, and that’s exactly what we received. However, a year later, Google launched a more complete smartwatch competing against the best Wear OS offers.
To prove just how good the Pixel Watch 2 is, it’s the most popular daily-wear smartwatch among the Android Authority team.
Features Editor Rita El Khoury speaks of these improvements:
It charges faster so I don’t leave it on the charger for hours on end and eventually forget to put it back on. It’s also becoming more tightly integrated with Pixel phones thanks to synchronized DND and bedtime modes, common alarms, full battery notification, and Watch Unlock. And best of all, it has automatic exercise detection so I don’t have to manually start tracking every time I go out for a walk.
Editor C. Scott Brown highlighted the watch’s improved battery life and the inclusion of the Fitbit Sense’s health and fitness features. “It is truly Google’s first great wearable,” he notes.
Many of us use Pixel smartphones, so the seamless integration the Pixel Watch 2 provides is another positive. Managing Editor Oliver Cragg notes that the wearable works well with the Pixel 7 Pro, and this simple and satisfying practicality is what we all seek.
Runs a snappy Wear OS 4 • Added and upgraded advanced health sensors • Fast charging alleviates battery woes
Wear OS 4, advanced health sensors, and upgraded training features elevate the Pixel Watch 2
The Google Pixel Watch 2 retains the first model’s successful features and refines several of the original’s shortcomings. Added sensors, upgraded training tools, and a few key changes suggest a more finished product. Google’s Wear OS 4 runs flawlessly, while advanced health tools from Fitbit join the lineup.
Apple well represented
We’ve long regarded the Apple Watch as the best smartwatch money can buy. Granted, you’ll need an iPhone and a deep appreciation for Apple’s walled garden, but there’s no denying the integration with other devices and extensive smart and health features make it a stellar wearable. Apple, alongside Google, proved to be the most popular smartwatch brand among my colleagues, with 27.2% of the share.
Senior Writer and resident wearables expert Kaitlyn Cimino, who upgraded from the Series 8 in 2022 to the Series 9 this year, rated the new smartwatch a 9/10 — the loftiest rating.
The Apple Watch’s seamless integration with iPhones can’t be beat and the App Store is extensive enough for all my needs. It also offers an intuitive user experience.
Senior Writer Aamir Siddiqui praises the Series 9’s “comprehensive health features” but rated the device slightly lower than Kaitlyn. This is due to “iPhone lock-in” and questionable sleep tracking accuracy.
Notably, one staffer is still rocking the Series 8. Video Producer Damien Wilde still finds the older generation wonderfully comfortable on the wrist but wishes to use the watch with an Android phone.
