Best Smartwatch For Nurses 2021: Stay Healthy With These Wearables

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Finding the best smartwatch for nurses this 2021 is one of the best ways to make your job easier and more convenient as a healthcare worker.

While 2021 continues to go through a pandemic, being a nurse can be one of the most demanding and difficult jobs to have. This not only applies to nurses but to other health workers and front-liners who risk their lives just to continue providing us with their services. A huge salute to them!

As a nurse, you are met with a multitude of responsibilities. Those responsibilities include gathering data from your patients, checking up on them regularly and doing the appropriate actions needed by the patient, overseeing patients’ records, relaying information to your doctors, and so much more.

With so many things at hand, you as a nurse are required to multitask. Time management, adapting to your fast-paced environment, and being quick on your feet are skills you need to learn. Because of this, I understand it’s easy to get overwhelmed and sometimes, even overlook some things.

This is where smartwatches come in.

It’s been said that technology makes our life easier. And a smartwatch does exactly that. The best wristwatch for nurses should be able to help keep track of your schedules. It should also manage your messages and calls, and send you notifications to keep you in the loop whenever necessary.

With the right smartwatch on your wrist, you’ll have a great advantage and better management with your tasks at hand.

To help nurses find the best smartwatch this 2021, I came up with my top recommendations for this list.

Top Recommendations

1. Apple Watch Series 6

When it comes to smart gadgets, Apple is definitely one of the leading, most popular and go-to brands of a lot of people in the world.

Apple itself can already be recognized as a household name for our technological needs. So it’s no surprise that the Apple Series 6 tops our list of “The Best Smartwatch For Nurses 2021”.

With the Apple Series 6, you get the best and appropriate features you’ll ever need to assist you when it comes to doing your job as a nurse. You’re also assured to get the most high-tech and high-level ingeniousness Apple can provide in every gadget they put out in the market.

Some of these features include a 5GHz Wi-Fi and U1 Ultra Wideband chip, allowing you to take calls and reply to texts from your wrist, fitness tracking, and a whole lot more.

On top of that, not only this smartwatch helps you keep track of your tasks, but also monitors your health throughout the day as well. You have to be healthy yourself before you help save lives, right?

So with the Apple Series 6, you can easily track if you’re on tiptop shape to perform your duties as a nurse.

If you truly want the best of the best, I would highly suggest setting your eyes on the Apple Series 6.

Check Out Our Dedicated Review Of The Apple Watch Series 6 Here.

Features & Specifications

• 5GHz Wi-Fi and U1 Ultra Wideband chip.
• Built-in GPS.
• GPS model allows you to take calls and answer your texts from your wrist.
• Touchscreen interface.
• Always-On Retina display.
• Case size: 40mm, 44mm
• Case thickness: 10.4mm
• Supports voice assistance, blood oxygen sensor, sleep monitoring, elevation tracker, heart rate monitoring with the ECG app, and fitness tracking.
• Material can either be made of aluminum casing or stainless steel.
• Multiple colorways to choose from and interchangeable bands for every mood and style.
• Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity.
• Water-resistant for up to 50 meters.
• Swimproof design.
• Built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery for up to 18 hours of battery life.
• AppleCare+ provides expert support, coverage, and service.

Rating: 9.5 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The Apple Watch Series 6?

2. Fitbit Versa

Now if you’re not an Apple user, you might want to take a look at the Fitbit Versa 2.

Fitbit is no stranger when it comes to smartwatches. In fact, they’re one of the most popular manufacturers of smartwatches across the globe. And rightfully so, they deserved the second-best spot in our list of The Best Smartwatch For Nurses 2021.

The Fitbit Versa 2 is one of the best smartwatches in the market that proves you don’t need a lot of high tech or premium features to make a great and solid smartwatch. In addition, this model won’t certainly burn a hole through your wallet.

So if you’re in a budget but want something that will help make your shifts at work easier and more manageable, the Fitbit Versa 2 is one of the best choices out there.

Even with the release of the Fitbit Versa 3, the Versa 2 is still a solid product to consider. The only advantage of the former is its built-in GPS. So if that’s a big deal to you, you can instead check out the Fitbit Versa 3.

However, with the Versa 2, you still get a lot of impressive features which are all listed below.

Features & Specifications

• Supports apps such as Weather, Sleep Monitor, Reminders, Voice Assistant, Alexa, Phone, GPS, and Heart Rate Monitor.
• Android operating system.
• Screen size of 1.34 Inches.
• Touchscreen and AMOLED interface.
• Built-in Amazon Alexa to get quick news and information, check the weather, set timers and alarms, control your smart home devices, and more all through the sound of your voice.
• Product dimensions are 1.56 x 1.59 x 0.47 inches; 0.16 ounces.
• 1 LR44 battery required. (included)
• Get a call, text, calendar, and smartphone app notifications when your phone is nearby
• Send quick replies and voice replies. (Android only)
• Various accessory bands and colorways to style up your Fitbit Versa 2. (sold separately)

Rating: 9 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The Fitbit Versa 2?

3. Samsung Galaxy Watch 3

Another smartwatch that will fit any android user perfectly is the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3.

Like the first two brands mentioned here, Samsung is also one of the top leading brands to produce premium smart gadgets in the market. And the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 is no exception to that.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 packs a punch with an array of premium features a smartwatch can have. From Bluetooth connectivity and LTE capabilities, the fan-favorite rotating bezel, built-in fitness trackers, automatic sleep trackers, a stylish and versatile design that’s water-resistant, to so much more.

With so many smartwatches being produced left and right, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 was able to easily stand out by finding the right balance between functionality and stylish design. To some, this is the best Android smartwatch to be released in the market.

If you want to know more of its features in full detail, just keep on reading.

Check Out Our Dedicated Review Of The Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 Here.

Features & Specifications

• The Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 has 2 different sizes to choose from: 1.2 inches and 1.4 inches.
• Sizes: 41 x 42.5 x 11.3 mm and 45 x 46.2 x 11.1 mm.
• Available colors are Mystic Bronze, Mystic Black, Mystic White.
• Bluetooth connectivity and LTE.
• Built-in GPS.
• Integrated Bixby voice functionality to read your texts for you, make calls, and/or initiate coaching on command.
• Offers a 1GB ram.
• Storage of 8GB.
• The battery is 247 mAh and 340 mAh.
• Has IP68 making it water-resistant.
• Supports HRM, SpO2, VO2 Max, ECG, blood pressure monitoring.

Rating: 9 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The Samsung Galaxy Watch 3?

4. Fossil Gen 5

Another well-known brand that produces wristwatches is Fossil.

Because of Fossil’s trusted reputation as watchmakers, I can easily assure you that the Fossil Gen 5 is one of the best smartwatches you can buy in the market right now.

Like many smartwatches, the Fossil Gen 5 also runs Google’s Wear OS.

If you’re a smartwatch enthusiast or just simply familiar with different kinds of smartwatches, you’ll know that this particular software has had issues of sluggishness, poor battery life, and being behind compared to some of its competitors like the Apple Watch Series.

However, it seems like the Fossil Gen 5 was able to curb all the issues plaguing Google’s Wear OS to the side. While it’s still not yet on par with the Apple Watch Series, Fossil Gen 5’s performance is still pretty solid on its own.

You’ll find no noticeable dips or lags in its speed while being used thanks to its 1GB of RAM and the updated Snapdragon Wear 3100 processor.

Battery life has also been greatly improved, lasting you more than a day in a single charge even with the “Daily” mode activated. Daily mode activates all functions in your smartwatch while “Extended” battery mode turns off a few features. When extended battery mode is on, you can expect your smartwatch to last you more than two days.

Just with the improved battery life alone, the Fossil Gen 5 is able to take a big leap and separate itself from other competitors that support Google’s Wear OS as well, making it a standout product.

Another noteworthy feature of the Fossil Gen 5 is how the model looks like your standard beautiful wristwatch. Which is something Fossil does so well with all of their wristwatches.

It doesn’t look like a piece of technology which is something I’m a huge fan of. Aside from having a wide array of interchangeable straps to choose from, of course.

Features & Specifications

• Screen size is 1.28 inches AMOLED (328ppi)
• Case size: 44 millimeters.
• Band size: 22 millimeters
• Interchangeable straps, compatible with all Fossil 22-millimeter bands.
• The band material is made of silicone.
• Item weight: 3.5 ounces.
• 24+ hours of battery life with different multi-day modes.
• The processor is Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 3100.
• Has 1GB RAM.
• 8GB of storage.
• Runs on Google’s Wear OS.
• Google Fit is the main fitness/health tracker. But third-party fitness apps such as Strava, Nike Run Club, and Cardiogram are also included.
• Water-resistant for up to 30 meters.
• Sensors: altimeter, ambient light, gyroscope, heart rate, microphone, speaker NFC, GPS.
• Uses Bluetooth 4.2 and wifi.

Rating: 8.5 out of 10

Where Can I Buy The Fossil Gen 5?

5. Garmin Vivoactive 3

Taking the #5 spot in our list of The Best Smartwatch For Nurses 2021 is the Garmin Vivoactive 3.

Garmin is another trusted brand that specializes in sports gadgets and produces impressive smartwatches for health enthusiasts like us.

The Garmin Vivoactive 3 is a subtle yet versatile wearable that nurses can rely on to help them throughout their shifts.

Some features include a heart rate sensor, GPS tracking, smart notifications, their own built-in payment system called the Garmin Pay, and a range of apps that are dedicated to keeping track of your health and fitness activities.

When it comes to design and aesthetics, the Garmin Vivoactive 3 sports a subtle and minimal design that is comfortable enough to be worn for extended periods of time without sacrificing that “premium” look.

And if you’re a nurse who likes to work out, you’d be happy to know that this model also has a screen made of Corning Gorilla Glass 3 with a case that is reinforced polymer. This makes your wearable durable enough to withstand even the most grueling and intense workout sessions.

Features & Specifications

• Product dimensions are 1.71 x 0.46 x 1.71 inches.
• Item weight is 1.5 ounces.
• Bluetooth connectivity and GPS.
• Touchscreen interface.
• The screen size is 1.6 inches.
• Water-resistant for up to 50 meters.
• Battery life lasting up to 7 seven days.
• Supports multiple fitness tracking apps.
• The case is made of reinforced polymer with a Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for a screen,

Rating: 8 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The Garmin Vivoactive 3?

6. Amazfit GTS Fitness Smartwatch

The Amazfit GTS Fitness Smartwatch was an underrated find for me. And I’m glad I did as this is a pretty solid wearable with such a stylish design and impressive battery life.

At such a great value, you get almost the same features as other more premium-priced smartwatches in this list. So if you’re on a budget, the Amazfit GTS Fitness Smartwatch is something you should consider.

Its 1.65-inch square screen offers an AMOLED display and customizable widgets to manage functions and apps that you want to prioritize.

Additionally, this model also has an impressive battery life of up to 14 days while supporting 12 mainstream exercise modes such as outdoor running, walking, outdoor cycling, indoor cycling, treadmill, elliptical trainer, climb, trail run, pool swimming, open water swimming, skiing, and exercise.

Despite its inexpensive price, you still get a premium-looking device with a slim metal watch body that’s lightweight and comfortable on your wrist.

Features & Specifications

• Product dimensions: 4.6 x 4.6 x 2.4 inches
• Item weight: 8.8 ounces
• Bluetooth connectivity, GPS + GLONASS enabled.
• AMOLED display.
• Touchscreen interface.
• PPG Sensor and Realbeats AI-based engine.
• Multiple colorways to choose from.
• Water-resistant.
• Battery life lasts up to 14 days.

Rating: 7.5 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The Amazfit GTS Fitness Smartwatch?

7. TicWatch Pro 4G LTE Cellular Smartwatch

Another underrated find in our list is the TicWatch Pro.

The TicWatch Pro stands out in the market because of its dual screen technology and innovative design that combines the things you would love in a traditional wristwatch while enjoying the benefits of a high quality smartwatch.

While TicWatch isn’t as popular of a brand compared to its counterparts in the market, it certainly doesn’t lag behind with their products. With a mid-range price, you get to experience top-end specs and features that Google’s Wear OS support.

When it comes to design, the TicWatch Pro looks very masculine and it might not be everyone’s taste. But where it shines is the material used to make this durable model. This device has US Military Standard 810G certified durability along with a lightweight silicone strap.

So if you like a wearable that doesn’t break easy and don’t mind the standard design, the TicWatch Pro is a solid choice.

Features & Specifications

• Screen size: 1.4in AMOLED and LCD display.
• Case size: 48mm.
• Case thickness: 12.2mm.
• Band size: 22mm.
• Item weight: 1.5 ounces.
• Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity and wifi.
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 4100.
• 1GB RAM.
• 8GB of storage.
• Google’s Wear OS.
• Water resistance of IP68.
• Sensors: barometer, ambient light, gyroscope, heart rate, SpO2, microphone, speaker NFC, GPS.

Rating: 8 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The TicWatch Pro 4G LTE Cellular Smartwatch?

8. Garmin Vivomove HR

If you can’t get enough if Garmin products, here’s another model that you might like.

The Garmin Vivomove HR is a hybrid smartwatch that perfectly balances the benefits and functionalities of a smartwatch and a fitness tracker.

This device is perfect for nurses who like to keep up with an active lifestyle alongside their careers while also incorporating the subtle design of a standard analog watch.

While it’s not quite on par with the Vivoactive 3 and doesn’t support as many apps, it’s still a standout compared to other hybrid watches in competition.

With a little hidden LED screen, the Vivomove HR lets you read your notifications, check and track your exercises or daily activities, and stress levels.

When it comes to design, Garmin certainly did not cut any corners by giving us a wide range of colors and styles to choose from. At first glance, the Garmin Vivomove HR does really look like your basic analog watch. Which is great because that was the point for a hybrid smartwatch.

Aside from that, you have the option to customize your Vivomove HR’s straps according to your preference. Or if you want an altogether classier-looking wristwatch, you can also upgrade it to a more premium model of the Vivomove HR.

Do take note that the Garmin Vivomove HR has no buttons nor crown. You can only interact with it through the touchscreen display. So if that’s something that might bother you, this is something to keep in mind.

Features & Specifications

• Up to 2-5 days of battery life depending if the watch is on Watch mode or Smart mode.
• Water-resistant.
• Changeable straps.
• Music controlling features.
• Multiple colorways.
• Bluetooth connectivity.
• OLED and touchscreen display.
• 64 x 128 pixels of screen resolution.
• Compatible with both iOS and Android.

Rating: 8 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The Garmin Vivomove HR?

A Quick Guide

Before you make that final decision on what smartwatch to get, I’ve also come up with a quick buyer’s guide to help you out on a few significant things you should consider in a smartwatch.

1. Make sure it syncs and works with your smartphone.

When purchasing a smartwatch, you have to keep in mind that you’re buying this device so you don’t have to rely on pulling out your smartphone as much while having accessibility to important apps from your wrist.

So make sure you get a model that is compatible and syncs with your smartphone conveniently. So considering things like operating systems and its versions are crucial in knowing which device will be compatible with the phone you’re using. Otherwise, you’d be stuck with a wearable that won’t have much use.

2. Built-in fitness tracker.

As someone who takes care of sickly people on a daily bases as their career, your health should be just as a priority. So a smartwatch with a reliable fitness tracker and health monitoring capabilities can be a huge advantage.

This will be able to help you stay in shape by tracking your steps and your activities, monitor your sleep during your downtimes, provide data regarding your heart rate, and so much more.

3. Supported apps.

When it comes to supported apps, this will heavily rely on your preferences. Do you want a wearable that can play and control your music without pulling out your phone? Do you want to have contactless payments? Also, some apps only support iOS or Android while others support both operating systems.

By finding out which apps you want and need, you’ll be able to figure out which smartwatch device will work best for you.

4. Does it send notifications and allows you to reply to texts and make/answer calls?

Another thing to consider for your convenience is a wearable’s ability to allow you to reply to texts, answer and make calls from your wrist. Usually, when you’re a nurse, your hands are almost always full and don’t have the luxury to peek through your phone to check messages or calls or other notifications you may have.

So a smartwatch letting you manage those kinds of things will significantly improve your productivity by just moving your wrist.

5. Battery life.

Work shifts for a nurse can get really long. And when I say long, it can last up to 16-24 hours during extreme cases. So it’s important to have a reliable smartwatch that won’t die on you in the middle of your shift.

So make sure that the smartwatch you’re getting can keep up with your long shifts at work.

6. Design and Build.

A lot of smartwatches in the market sport interchangeable bands of multiple colorways to let you switch up the design and style of your smartwatch according to your mood and preferences. While it’s not the most important feature to look for, it’s better to have this kind of option than not having it at all.

Besides, who doesn’t want their smartwatches to match their outfits for the day?

Aside from aesthetics, it’s also important to know the build of your smartwatch. Is it sturdy enough? Is it lightweight? Does it feel heavy? What is the material made of? Will it be water resistant? How many meters can it be submerged into water? These kinds of questions should have answers according to your preference.

As a nurse, it’s a great advantage and security to have when you know your smartwatch can last a day of long shifts at work without you having to worry about it breaking instantly when accidents happen.

For a more detailed guide, check out our dedicated Buyer’s Guide To The Best Smartwatches 2021.

Final Thoughts

Every nurse in the world deserves to have options on how they can make their work and responsibilities easier on them. Owning the right smartwatch allows them exactly that.

With the right smartwatch, a nurse can easily track their own health and activity while they monitor their patient’s. A smartwatch can also help monitor your sleep schedule, heart rate, and send you notifications of incoming calls and messages and allow you to reply to them without having to pick up your phone.

Working in healthcare, especially in our current global situation, is one of the most demanding and stressful environments right now. As technology advances each time, things get a lot more convenient for us and nurses should also be able to have that luxury.

They sacrifice and risk so much to take care of our health and a smartwatch will help them monitor their own as well as manage their seemingly endless responsibilities and tasks.

So if you’re a nurse, I hope this list was able to help you decide on getting the best smartwatch for you.

Feel free to comment down below if you already own a smartwatch, deciding to get one, or if your favorite smartwatch has made it in our list!

Recommended reading for you:

A Buyer’s Guide To The Best Smartwatches 2021: All You Need To Know

The Apple Watch Series 6 Review: Is It The Best Choice For You?

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 Review: Is It The Best Android Smartwatch?