A smartwatch can tell you a lot about your body, but I have found that having more health features does not always mean getting more useful data. Heart rate and SpO2 are two readings I pay particular attention to because they are among the metrics people tend to check regularly, whether during a workout or simply going about their day.
For this list, I have narrowed it down to four current smartwatches from Apple, Samsung, Google and Amazfit. The focus here is not on how many health features each watch offers, but on how seriously each one approaches heart rate and SpO2 tracking and which models I would recommend if these readings are a priority.
{{#product}}{{/product}}
The Apple Watch Series 12 is the one I would pick if health tracking is a major reason for buying a smartwatch. I like how quickly it surfaces heart rate trends and other health data without making the experience complicated. The combination of heart rate monitoring, ECG, blood oxygen tracking and Vitals gives it a strong health focused approach, although the battery still needs frequent charging.
{{#product}}{{/product}}
Our Principles
Full Transparency
Every product review clearly lists the Pros and Cons, giving you a balanced view.
Brand Confidence
We focus on products from brands with a proven reputation and long-standing market trust.
The Galaxy Watch9 makes sense if you want a smartwatch that can cover most of your health tracking needs without feeling like a dedicated fitness watch. I like the amount of information it collects, from heart rate and blood oxygen to sleep and body composition. Samsung also does a good job of putting this information together in its health app, making it easy to track changes over time.
{{#product}}{{/product}}
Pixel Watch 4 is Google's smartwatch released last year, and the reason I am recommending it compared to the Watch 5 is that there are very minimal changes except for the RAM and storage. It features a nice
{{#product}}{{/product}}
The Amazfit Active 3 Premium is the most interesting option here if you want extensive health tracking without spending as much as you would on the other three watches. I found its health feature set surprisingly capable, with continuous heart rate and SpO2 monitoring alongside sleep and fitness tracking. The biggest advantage, however, is the battery life, which makes continuous tracking much easier to maintain.
Factors to consider before buying a smartwatch
- Sensor accuracy: Look for watches with reliable optical heart rate sensors and consistent SpO2 tracking rather than simply counting the number of health sensors.
- Fit and comfort: A secure fit is important for accurate readings. The watch should also be comfortable enough to wear during workouts and sleep.
- Health insights: Check how the watch presents your data. Useful trends and alerts can be more valuable than a long list of individual readings.
- Battery life: Frequent charging can interrupt continuous health tracking, especially for sleep and overnight SpO2 measurements.
- Phone compatibility: Check whether all health features work with your smartphone. Some advanced features are restricted to specific phone ecosystems.
Similar articles for you
Flat screens feel outdated? These curved gaming monitors change the way you play
₹3,000 get the basics right">Why pay more? These smartwatches under ₹3,000 get the basics right
From gaming to work: 6 Mouse pads that help your mouse perform better
- Which smartwatch has the most accurate heart rate tracking?
The Apple Watch Series 12 is a strong choice for heart rate tracking, particularly for users already in the Apple ecosystem.
- Can smartwatches accurately measure SpO2?
Smartwatches can provide useful SpO2 readings and trends, but they should not replace a medical pulse oximeter or professional assessment.
- Is SpO2 tracking useful on a smartwatch?
Yes. It can help you monitor blood oxygen trends, particularly during sleep, but individual readings can vary with fit and movement.
- Which smartwatch is good for health tracking?
Apple Watch Series 12, Galaxy Watch9, Pixel Watch 5 and Amazfit Active 3 Premium all offer extensive health tracking features.
- Should I buy a smartwatch mainly for health tracking?
Yes, if you want convenient access to health and fitness trends. However, use dedicated medical equipment when you need clinically reliable measurements.
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.