Watch Phones
A watch phone is a cell phone that you wear on your wrist instead of carrying in your pocket. The selection is limited: this is a niche market for those who want to keep their hands free or are specifically looking for a minimalist device. Can’t find anything that suits you below? At the bottom of this page, you’ll find alternatives that serve the same purpose. Use the filters to narrow down your choices and independently compare what’s available.
What is a smartwatch?
A smartwatch is a standalone phone in the form of a wristwatch. It has its own SIM card or eSIM, its own phone number, and works without needing another phone nearby. A smartwatch, on the other hand, is typically an extension of your phone: it displays notifications and tracks your activity, but relies on the device in your pocket for internet access and calls. With a watch phone, the device on your wrist is the phone itself.
Who is it for?
This design is especially practical if you want to keep your hands free or don’t want to carry a separate device. Think of jobs where a phone in your pocket gets in the way, sports activities, or someone who wants to be reachable without carrying a full-fledged smartphone. If you’re looking for something for a child, be sure to also check out phones for kids and smartwatches for kids; these are designed for that purpose, with features like a limited contact list.
Note: 4G and 4G calling (VoLTE)
Check which networks a device is compatible with. Simple devices of this type sometimes only support older network technology and therefore don’t work on all Dutch networks. Therefore, choose a model that supports 4G and 4G calling. This is more important here than it would be for a secondary device, because a smartwatch is intended to be your only phone.
What challenges will you face?
Expect a small screen, a modest battery, and limited space for apps. These limitations stem directly from the device’s size.
- Typing and reading: on a screen measuring just a few centimeters, replying to messages is cumbersome; voice control is often the fastest option
- Battery life: A watch case can’t hold much battery, so daily charging is the rule rather than the exception
- Service plan: The device requires its own SIM card or eSIM, and therefore its own service plan or prepaid credit
- Apps and camera: the selection of apps is limited, and a usable camera is usually missing
- Software and updates: check which operating system the device runs and how long the manufacturer will provide security updates
Choose a smartwatch if the device on your wrist is to be your only phone and you only need to make calls, send messages, and check the time.
Choose a smartwatch if you already have a phone and mainly want notifications, fitness, and health features on your wrist; with an eSIM model, you can also make calls without having your phone with you if you wish.
Alternatives with a similar purpose
If you’re mainly looking for simplicity and accessibility, a small or intentionally limited device in your pocket is often a better solution than a phone on your wrist.
- Dumbphones: intentionally limited phones without the distraction of apps
- Feature phones: simple devices with buttons for making calls and sending text messages
- Compact smartphones: a full-featured smartphone that remains small enough to operate with one hand
