The Apple Watch Isn't the Only One Worth Your Money
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We were all hoping for it, and Apple delivered: a new smartwatch that promises to change the game of wearable tech. As great as it seems, though, we can't help but wonder how it stacks up to other smartwatches currently out there. Before you even consider throwing down your money for the Apple Watch, check out all your options, starting right here. Source: Samsung
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Apple Watch
Price: $349
Why it's special: First things first — the Apple Watch is gorgeous. But it also uses Siri to send texts to other iMessage users, can detect your heart rate, lets you navigate maps and control Apple TV, and so much more. Plus, it's got a flexible retina display for a great user experience.
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Moto 360
Price: $250
Why it's special: This smartwatch works with any device running Android 4.3 or later, so you won't have to run out to get a new phone, or even a Motorola phone for that matter, to use the watch. The interface uses "OK glass" voice activation like Google Glass and will suggest info like local weather, pull up your plane ticket's QR code at the airport, show you how long your commute will take, and more.
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Pebble
Price: $150
Why it's special: The e-paper watch made huge waves after raising a record-breaking $10 million on Kickstarter (the goal was only $100K). It pairs to a smartphone via Bluetooth and will receive text/email/call push notifications. The difference is that Pebble uses a battery-saving, black and white e-paper display that looks great in bright sunlight.
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Samsung Galaxy Gear 2
Price: $299
Why it's special: The smartphone-compatible Galaxy Gear 2 answers calls, emails, and texts right from your wrist. Then there's the fact that it uses voice command, comes with a stand-alone music player, and features interchangeable bands.
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Sonostar Smartwatch
Price: $179
Why it's special: The Bluetooth-enabled Sonostar is like a Pebble with different hardware. It has a black and white e-paper 1.73-inch display, is both Android and iOS compatible, and uses specialized apps. The main difference is the curved touch screen on the watch's face.
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Samsung Gear S
Price: Unknown
Why it's special: There's still no word yet on when it will even be released, but the newly announced Samsung Gear S is pretty great. It has its own 3G data connection, which means that it doesn't need your phone nearby to tell you directions or the morning's headlines. The screen is curved, and the device itself is waterproof and attached to a flexible, thick band that makes it feel more like a cuff.
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Sony SmartWatch 2
Price: $200
Why it's special: Sony's next-generation, Android-only "phone remote" is water resistant and pairs with devices using NFC (near field communications) technology. The Android companion uses your phone's data to read texts, tweet, listen to music, track workouts, and field calls. You can also trigger your phone's camera shutter remotely with the watch.