Smart Watches That Can Make Calls And Text?

Smartwatches That Can Make Calls and Text: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide

The smartwatch market has grown exponentially, transforming what used to be basic fitness trackers into full-blown wearable technology capable of performing many of the tasks traditionally reserved for smartphones. Among these new capabilities, making phone calls and sending texts stand out as particularly compelling features. For many users, the appeal lies in staying connected without needing to constantly reach for their phones.

However, not all smartwatches are created equal. Some offer standalone cellular connectivity, allowing users to make calls and send texts without even carrying a smartphone, while others require a nearby connected phone for communication. If you're considering investing in a smartwatch that can make calls and send texts, this article explores the essential information you need to make an informed decision and highlights some top options in this category.

Key Capabilities in Communication-Enabled Smartwatches

If you’re in the market for a smartwatch that makes calls and sends texts, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the levels of functionality available. Here are the main capabilities offered by smartwatches in this category:

1. Standalone Cellular Connectivity (SIM or eSIM): Many advanced smartwatches come equipped with LTE connectivity through SIM or eSIM. These devices can function entirely independently of your smartphone, allowing you to make calls and send texts straight from the device. They are ideal for users who want a hands-free solution during workouts, commutes, or simple outings.

2. Connected Functionality: Some smartwatches rely on a paired smartphone to enable calling and texting. While these devices may not work independently, they typically integrate seamlessly with your phone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi for efficient communication.

3. Voice Commands and Text Dictation: Leading smartwatches also include voice assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, or Bixby, which can streamline communication by allowing users to send texts and make calls using voice commands.

4. Emergency SOS Calling: Some of these devices incorporate safety features such as SOS calls or emergency contact systems, enabling users to quickly reach help when needed.

What to Consider Before Buying a Communication-Enabled Smartwatch

Understanding your personal requirements is critical when choosing the right smartwatch. Here’s what to analyze:

1. Compatibility with Your Smartphone: Ensure the smartwatch is compatible with your existing smartphone. Apple Watches work exclusively with iPhones, while brands like Samsung, Fitbit, and Garmin are more versatile and typically work with both Android and iOS devices.

2. Cellular Activation Costs: If you’re opting for a smartwatch with standalone cellular capabilities, be prepared for additional costs. Most carriers charge a monthly fee to activate the smartwatch’s LTE functionality.

3. Battery Life: Calling and texting features can consume battery power rapidly, especially if the device supports cellular calls independently. Look for smartwatches that balance performance with battery longevity.

4. Ease of Use: Consider user interface and typing ease. Many smartwatches offer keyboard functionality, while some rely exclusively on voice dictation.

5. Durability and Design: A smartwatch designed for communication should still cater to your aesthetic preferences while being durable enough for regular use.

6. Additional Features: Aside from calling and texting capabilities, most users expect health tracking, fitness monitoring, GPS navigation, and app integrations from their smartwatches. Compare the value-added features across models.

Top Smartwatches That Can Make Calls and Text

If you're looking for recommendations, here are some of the best smartwatches in the market that are optimized for calling and texting:

1. Apple Watch Series 8 (or Ultra)

Apple consistently leads the smartwatch industry, and the Apple Watch Series 8 is no exception. With Cellular models featuring eSIM capacity, these watches are capable of making calls and sending texts without needing to be tethered to an iPhone.

Pros:

- Seamless integration with iOS devices.

- High-speed LTE connectivity.

- Advanced health tracking, including ECG and blood oxygen measurements.

- Built-in Siri for voice commands.

Cons:

- Exclusive compatibility with iPhones.

- Higher price point compared to other options.

2. Samsung Galaxy Watch6

Samsung offers several models under the Galaxy Watch series that are equipped with standalone LTE connectivity, making them ideal for Android users. The Galaxy Watch6 supports calls, texts, and app notifications effortlessly.

Pros:

- Works with Android and iOS devices (though optimized for Samsung phones).

- Sophisticated design and user-friendly interface.

- Excellent app ecosystem and battery life.

Cons:

- The LTE version requires activation through a carrier.

3. Google Pixel Watch

Google’s Pixel Watch perfectly complements Android users but also stands out because of its native Wear OS system. Cellular connectivity allows you to make calls, send texts, and access notifications directly on the device.

Pros:

- Native Google apps like Gmail and Google Maps are integrated.

- Clean design and intuitive interface.

- Reliable LTE connectivity option for standalone functionality.

Cons:

- Battery life may be shorter with cellular usage.

4. Fitbit Sense 2 (Connected Mode Only)

While Fitbit is traditionally recognized for fitness tracking, the Sense 2 offers connected mode calling and texting when paired with a smartphone. Though it lacks standalone LTE functionality, it’s still a strong contender for users who keep their smartphones nearby.

Pros:

- Exceptional fitness and health tracking capabilities.

- User-friendly interface.

- Compatible with both iOS and Android devices.

Cons:

- No standalone calling/texting support.

5. Garmin Venu 2 Plus

Garmin smartwatches are popular among athletes, but they also offer connected calling and texting capabilities. The Venu 2 Plus adds hands-free calling with voice commands, enabling seamless communication for active users.

Pros:

- Durable and rugged design for outdoor enthusiasts.

- Advanced fitness metrics.

- Customizable Smart Reply feature for text responses.

Cons:

- No standalone cellular connectivity.

How to Maximize the Utility of These Devices

Once you invest in a smartwatch capable of making calls and sending texts, it’s essential to optimize its functionality. Here are a few tips to ensure you get the best experience:

1. Set Up Your eSIM or Cellular Plan: If you're using a standalone smartwatch, activate its LTE feature with your carrier. Some carriers offer discounted rates for adding your smartwatch to your mobile plan.

2. Customize Notifications: Avoid being overwhelmed by incoming alerts by customizing your smartwatch notifications so that only essential calls and texts appear.

3. Practice Voice Commands: Use built-in voice assistants to maximize calling and texting efficiency. You’ll appreciate the convenience of hands-free communication, especially while driving or working out.

4. Monitor Battery Usage: Always carry a portable charger or power bank when you plan on relying heavily on cellular calling and texting, as these features drain the battery faster.

5. Take Advantage of Third-Party Apps: Explore third-party apps designed specifically for wearable devices to enhance communication, fitness, and productivity.

Conclusion: Tailoring the Smartwatch Choice to Your Needs

Smartwatches capable of calling and texting represent the next step in wearable technology, simplifying how users stay connected in a mobile, fast-paced world. Whether you want independence from your smartphone or simply need a companion device to handle communications better, there’s a smartwatch out there for you.

Apple Watch and Samsung Galaxy Watch are major players for those looking for standalone cellular connectivity, while devices like Fitbit Sense 2 and Garmin Venu 2 Plus prioritize fitness tracking with connected communication options. Ultimately, the best option for you depends on your ecosystem (Android or iOS), lifestyle needs, and budget.

Buyers should evaluate their current mobile carrier plans, prioritize battery life, and consider additional functionalities like GPS navigation, fitness tracking, and app integrations to make a wise decision. With constant advancements in smartwatch tech, it has never been easier to make calls and texts from your wrist!