Best Swimming Smartwatch 2023

Choosing the best swimming smartwatch for 2023 involves evaluating several critical factors, including water resistance, swim tracking capabilities, battery life, and overall durability. For avid swimmers and those looking to track their aquatic performance, the right smartwatch can make a significant difference. Here’s a detailed review of the top swimming smartwatches available this year, highlighting their key features, pros, cons, and why they stand out in the market.

Key Considerations for Choosing a Swimming Smartwatch

1. Water Resistance A good swimming smartwatch should be highly water-resistant, capable of withstanding depths of at least 50 meters. Look for smartwatches with a 5ATM or higher rating, which ensures they are suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and even shallow diving.

2. Swim Tracking Features Swim tracking features are crucial for monitoring performance metrics such as lap count, stroke type, distance, and SWOLF (a measure of swimming efficiency). Advanced models also provide insights into heart rate, calorie burn, and swim efficiency.

3. Battery Life For uninterrupted tracking and use, battery life is an essential consideration. A smartwatch with long battery life means fewer interruptions during swim sessions and longer intervals between charges.

4. Durability and Comfort The durability of the smartwatch's build is important for withstanding the rigors of regular swimming. Additionally, comfort plays a significant role, as the watch should fit snugly on the wrist without causing discomfort during long sessions.

5. Connectivity and Compatibility Ensure the smartwatch is compatible with your smartphone and other fitness apps for seamless data syncing. Features like GPS, Bluetooth connectivity, and integration with health apps can enhance the overall experience.

Top Swimming Smartwatches of 2023

1. Garmin Swim 2

Features:

• Water Resistance: 5ATM (up to 50 meters)
• Swim Tracking: Advanced swim metrics, including pace, stroke count, and SWOLF
• Battery Life: Up to 7 days in smartwatch mode, 12 hours in GPS mode
• Additional Features: GPS, heart rate monitoring, automatic stroke detection

Pros:

• Excellent swim tracking accuracy
• Long battery life
• Comfortable and lightweight design

Cons:

• Limited smartwatch functions outside of swimming

The Garmin Swim 2 is designed specifically for swimmers and offers comprehensive swim metrics, making it an excellent choice for dedicated swimmers. Its long battery life and accurate tracking features set it apart in the market.

2. Apple Watch Ultra

Features:

• Water Resistance: WR100 (up to 100 meters)
• Swim Tracking: Advanced metrics, including stroke count, SWOLF, and distance
• Battery Life: Up to 36 hours with regular use
• Additional Features: GPS, heart rate monitoring, integration with Apple Health

Pros:

• High water resistance suitable for deeper swimming
• Wide range of smartwatch functionalities
• Robust build quality

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Bulkier design compared to other swim-specific watches

The Apple Watch Ultra offers a blend of advanced swim tracking and extensive smartwatch features. Its high water resistance and versatile functionalities make it ideal for users who want a smartwatch that performs well both in and out of the water.

3. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6

Features:

• Water Resistance: 5ATM (up to 50 meters)
• Swim Tracking: Comprehensive swim tracking with pace, distance, and stroke analysis
• Battery Life: Up to 40 hours on a single charge
• Additional Features: GPS, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking

Pros:

• Excellent swim tracking and smartwatch functionalities
• Sleek design and comfortable fit
• Good battery life

Cons:

• Swim tracking features are less advanced compared to dedicated swim watches

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 provides a good balance of swim tracking and general smartwatch capabilities. It’s a versatile choice for users who want a smartwatch that covers various activities, including swimming.

4. Fitbit Sense 2

Features:

• Water Resistance: 5ATM (up to 50 meters)
• Swim Tracking: Swim tracking with basic metrics and heart rate monitoring
• Battery Life: Up to 6 days
• Additional Features: Health monitoring, GPS, stress management

Pros:

• Comprehensive health and fitness tracking
• Comfortable and stylish design
• Long battery life

Cons:

• Basic swim tracking compared to specialized swim watches

The Fitbit Sense 2 offers a broad range of health and fitness tracking features, making it a good choice for users who want a smartwatch that can handle both swimming and other fitness activities.

Comparison Table

Smartwatch	Water Resistance	Swim Tracking Features	Battery Life	Additional Features
Garmin Swim 2	5ATM (50 meters)	Advanced metrics, automatic stroke detection	7 days (smartwatch mode), 12 hours (GPS)	GPS, heart rate monitoring
Apple Watch Ultra	WR100 (100 meters)	Advanced metrics, stroke count, SWOLF	Up to 36 hours	GPS, Apple Health integration
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6	5ATM (50 meters)	Comprehensive swim tracking	Up to 40 hours	GPS, sleep tracking
Fitbit Sense 2	5ATM (50 meters)	Basic swim tracking, heart rate monitoring	Up to 6 days	Health monitoring, stress management

Conclusion

Selecting the best swimming smartwatch for 2023 largely depends on individual needs and preferences. Garmin Swim 2 is an excellent choice for those focused solely on swimming, offering precise metrics and long battery life. The Apple Watch Ultra provides a combination of high water resistance and extensive smartwatch capabilities, making it a versatile option. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 balances swim tracking with general smartwatch features, while the Fitbit Sense 2 is ideal for users who want comprehensive health tracking alongside basic swim features.

Ultimately, the best swimming smartwatch is one that aligns with your specific requirements, whether it's advanced swim metrics, durability, or overall functionality. Consider your needs and preferences to find the perfect fit for your aquatic adventures.