Do You Need A Smartwatch, or Is It Just the Hype?

Smartwatches are now everywhere. From fitness influencers in the gym to professionals in boardrooms and even your neighbour, these wrist gadgets are slowly becoming a fashion staple as everyone is rocking one. But are they genuinely essential life-enhancing tools? Or are we just caught up in the hype of having another screen in our lives?

The answers to these questions will come from knowing what smartwatches can do, the standard features of the best smartwatches, what makes them different, and why you think you need them. 

What Can a Smartwatch Do?

Modern smartwatches have evolved significantly. From being ordinary digital watches, they have become mini wellness coaches and personal assistants you can carry around. Here’s what they bring to the table:

1. Health Monitoring

Most smartwatches today come with advanced sensors that track your:

• Heart rate

• Blood oxygen level

• Sleep quality

• Stress levels

• Even irregular heart rhythms (yes, they can alert you when something’s off)

Some models, like the Apple Watch Series 10, alert users to serious health issues, prompting timely medical intervention. For example, a woman in Australia whose Apple Watch Series 10 caught signs of cancer early by constantly flagging abnormal heart readings.

2. Fitness Tracking

Whether you’re hitting 5,000 steps a day or training for a marathon, your smartwatch can help you count steps, calories, and heart rate while you’re doing it. It’s like a personal trainer who doesn’t yell at you.

3. Notifications and Quick Actions

You can check messages, answer calls, control music, and even pay for your bowl of ice cream without reaching for your phone.

4. Navigation

Lost on a trail or trying to find a new spot? Your smartwatch’s built-in GPS can guide you in real time.

READ ALSO: Which Apple Watch Should You Buy?

Top Smartwatches to Check Out in 2025

Here are some crowd favourites this year:

• Apple Watch Series 10: The go-to for iPhone users. Sleek, reliable, and packed with health features.

Price: ₦799,000.00  Where to Buy: Shop iStore

Price: ₦1,128,939  Where To Buy: Shop Ubuy

• Samsung Galaxy Watch 7: Great if you’re on Android. Vivid display and top-tier health features.

Price: ₦483,000  Where to Buy: Shop PC Place

• Google Pixel Watch 3: This super handy device has AI smarts and emergency help features.

Price: ₦650,000  Where To Buy: Shop JustFones

But if you prefer romantic novels, check out our recommended romance novels here.

On a Budget? No Problem

You can check out these budget-friendly smartwatches: The Only Smartwatches Under ₦50,000 Worth Buying This Year

Smartwatches vs. Traditional Watches

1. Functionality

• Smartwatches provide more features than timekeeping, such as health monitoring, fitness tracking, notifications, and even mobile payments.​

• Traditional Watches primarily focus on timekeeping, with some models offering additional features like chronographs or date displays.​

2. Battery Life

• Smartwatches typically require charging every 1-3 days, depending on usage. 

• Traditional Watches boast impressive battery longevity, often lasting months or even years without needing a battery replacement.​

3. Design and Aesthetics

• Smartwatches feature modern, tech-centric designs with customisable watch faces and bands.​

• Traditional Watches display classic beauty, often considered fashion expression and treasure.​

4. Cost and Value

• Smartwatch prices vary widely. However, their value might depreciate over time as newer models are released.​

• Traditional Watches, especially luxury models, can retain or even appreciate, making them potential investments.​

How Can Smartwatch Straps Impact Your Health?

While smartwatches offer numerous benefits, it's essential to be aware of potential health concerns associated with their straps:​

• Skin Irritation: Some users have reported skin irritation from rubber or silicone straps, especially when worn tightly or during workouts. Regular cleaning and ensuring a proper fit can mitigate these issues. ​

• Chemical Exposure: Recent studies have found that certain smartwatch bands, particularly those made from fluoroelastomers, contain high levels of PFAS ("forever chemicals"). These substances are linked to health risks like liver damage and cancer. Researchers recommend opting for silicone bands as a safer alternative.

“We were surprised by how high the levels were... especially in fitness watch bands,” says Dr. Graham Peaslee, lead author of a Notre Dame study. Dr. Tolu also breaks it down on Instagram.

If you’re concerned, go for silicone or leather straps, and clean your band regularly, especially after workouts or sweaty days.

Do You Need a Smartwatch?

The question of if you genuinely need a smartwatch depends on these:

• Are you health-conscious?

• Do you enjoy tracking your workouts?

• Would you love quick access to calls, texts, and alerts without pulling out your phone?

If yes, a smartwatch might fit right into your lifestyle.

But if:

• You barely use the tech you already have

• You prefer long-lasting battery life and simple accessories

• You’re worried about over-reliance on tech

Then, passing or sticking to a traditional watch might be okay. Ultimately, the decision to buy a smartwatch depends on your personal preference and lifestyle.

It’s Not About the Hype. It’s About the Fit

Smartwatches are cool, but they’re not magic. They won’t suddenly make you healthy, productive, or stylish. They’re just helpful tools. Assess your needs, lifestyle, and budget to determine if joining the smartwatch train suits you.