Tech firms tend to update their smartwatch ranges annually, but, just like with smartphones, it’s often wiser – and kinder on your wallet – to buy an older model. Smartwatches rarely add essential features year to year, and for the basic fitness tracking and smart tools they offer, you could get a great bang for your buck by looking at last year’s wearables.
That’s what I recommend doing with the Samsung Galaxy Watch line up, and doubly so now that Argos has discounted 2024’s model. The Galaxy Watch 7 40mm is currently down to £189, a price the retailer says is its lowest ever.
That is £100 less than the device sold for on its initial release, and a great deal cheaper than the lowest priced Galaxy Watch 8 that’s currently going for £319.
But lo and behold, John Lewis has it even cheaper at £169 for the exact same model. That’s a very good price for a smartwatch that’s barely 365 days old and will get software updates for years to come.
But paying less doesn’t mean you get a lesser smartwatch. The Galaxy Watch 7 comes with a design I prefer to the oddly angular Watch 8, for a start.
It has all the sensors you need to track your daily steps, heart rate, sleep and workouts, with built-in GPS for tracking those run, hike and cycle routes, all viewed through the compact but bright OLED touchscreen.
With 32GB storage you can download companion apps to match those on your phone from popular apps such as Spotify, Strava and All Trails, plus you can get as many notifications as you want coming to your wrist so you can keep your phone in your bag.
With full waterproofing, the Galaxy Watch 7 can also track your swims, and it also has fall detection so you can alert pre selected contacts if you are in trouble.
One thing to bear in mind – like with most smartwatches – the battery here is only going to last about one day before you need to pop it back on the charger. If you want a wearable that has longer battery life, think about something like the Fitbit Versa 4, which has no third party apps but can last about five days before it runs out of juice.