Best watches for nurses in 2024

From tracking medication schedules to monitoring vital signs, the best watches for nurses in 2024 are designed not just to keep time but to optimize the nursing profession's unique demands. Today's designs are a far cry from the simplistic timepieces of the past, now incorporating a variety of features aimed at enhancing healthcare professionals' work performance.

Smartwatches that track and record health metrics to durable, easy-to-clean models suitable for the hospital environment, the progression towards 2024 has been marked by innovation aimed at aiding the challenging roles nurses play. This article seeks to explore this evolution, spotlighting the best watches that strike an excellent balance between functionality, comfort, and price.

1. Best Overall
2. Best Digital
3. Best Smartwatch
4. Best Affordable
5. Best For Male
6. Best Waterproof
7. Best For Students
8. Best For Health Monitoring
9. Best Apple
10. Best Garmin

BEST OVERALL

BEST AFFORDABLE 

★★★★
The Casio F91W Classic represents an exceptionally affordable and reliable option for nurses

BEST BUDGET-FRIENDLY 

★★★★
An incredibly affordable option that still offers reliability and an easy-to-read face, perfect for nursing students

BEST DIGITAL

★★★★
A resilient digital watch featuring a 100-hour chronograph, 30-lap memory, and water resistance

BEST  FOR MALE 

BEST FOR HEALTH MONITORING 

BEST GARMIN 

BEST SMARTWATCH 

BEST WATERPROOF

★★★★★
The Garmin Forerunner 55 not only provides waterproof capabilities but also includes features beneficial for nurses

BEST APPLE 

Case diameter - 42.8 millimeters
Case Thickness- 13.7 millimeters
Case material - Resin
Band size - Womens Standard
Band width -23.4 millimeters
Bezel function -Stationary
Water resistant depth - 200m
Movement - Quartz

Short review

The Casio BG-169R-7AM Women's Baby G Quartz Watch with a Resin Strap emerges as the best overall watch for nurses, ingeniously crafted to meet the unique demands of the nursing profession. Constructed with the challenges of the healthcare environment in mind, this watch's shock-resistant design ensures it withstands the rigors of daily nursing duties, from administering medications to emergency responses. The 200-meter water resistance is particularly beneficial for nurses, offering worry-free wear during frequent handwashing or unexpected fluid exposure. Such features ensure the watch remains a reliable tool in maintaining hygiene and patient care standards. Efficiency and time management are crucial in nursing, and the Casio BG-169R-7AM is equipped with essentials like a day counter, world time, and a tele-memo function, enhancing nurses' work performance and making it a watch nurses love. Its electro-luminescent backlight guarantees readability in dim settings, ensuring critical time checks are never missed.

✅ You're in the Healthcare Profession - If you're a nurse or healthcare professional, the Casio BG-169R-7AM is designed with features that cater to the rigorous demands of your work environment. Its durability, water resistance, and array of functions like a day counter and world time make it an ideal companion for managing your busy schedule and maintaining hygiene protocols
✅ You Seek Durability and Comfort - The watch's shock-resistant construction and 200-meter water resistance mean it can withstand the bumps and splashes that are part and parcel of nursing life. Plus, its lightweight design and resin strap ensure comfort during long shifts

❌ You Prefer Simplicity - f your priority is having a watch that tells the time without the frills, then the Casio BG-169R-7AM might overwhelm you with its array of features.

Display Type - Digital
Clasp -Buckle
Case material - Resin
Case diameter - 38 millimeters
Case Thickness - 12.73 millimeters
Band width - 16 millimeters
Band Material - Resin

Short review

Its sleek yet robust design, characterized by a resin strap and a gray and black resin case, offers both durability and comfort. The full-size 38mm case size is thoughtfully designed to fit most wrist sizes, although those with smaller wrists should note the dimensions for optimal comfort.The digital watch also boasts the INDIGLO® light-up watch dial, a feature that allows nurses to discreetly check the time in dimly lit conditions or during night shifts, without disturbing patients. The inclusion of a countdown timer and a customizable alarm further elevates its utility, allowing nurses to set reminders for critical appointments or medication schedules, ensuring no task goes overlooked even during the busiest shifts. One of the standout features of the Timex Ironman Classic 30 is its water resistance up to 100 meters, making it exceptionally suitable for nurses.

✅ You Value Precision in Timing - The watch is equipped with a sports stopwatch and a 30-lap memory, making it perfect if you regularly need to track precise timings for administering medications, or conducting specific time-sensitive tasks within your nursing duties
✅ You Work in Wet Conditions - With its water resistance up to 100 meters, this watch is ideal if your nursing role involves frequent hand washing, exposure to liquids, or you're often in environments where your watch might get wet.

❌ Aesthetics Are a Priority - If you want a watch that aligns more closely with your personal style or you prefer a watch that’s less sporty and more traditional or elegant, you might want to consider other options.

Special Features - Activity Tracker, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Sleep Monitor, Daily Workout Memory,  Bluetooth, Text Messaging, Phone CallActivity Tracker, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Sleep Monitor, Daily Workout Memory, Water Resistant, Alarm Clock, Bluetooth, Text Messaging, Phone Call

Short review

The Fitbit Versa 4 blending advanced health tracking capabilities with smart functionalities tailored to their professional and personal needs. Its 24/7 heart rate tracking ensures that healthcare professionals can keep an eye on their vital signs, an essential component of self-care in a high-stress environment. With features like Sleep Profile and Sleep Score, it offers insights into sleep quality, empowering nurses to optimize their rest periods for maximal recovery and readiness. The Daily Readiness Score further personalizes fitness guidance, suggesting the best times for activity or rest based on the body's signals. For nurses juggling busy schedules, the smartwatch's ability to deliver on-wrist Bluetooth calls, texts, and app notifications is invaluable, ensuring they stay connected without the constant need to reach for their phones. Water-resistant up to 50 meters and featuring a 6+ day battery life, the Fitbit Versa 4 is built for endurance.

✅ Stress Management Is a Priority - If managing stress is essential in your high-pressure nursing role, the Fitbit Versa 4's Stress Management Score and guided breathing sessions could be invaluable tools in maintaining your mental and emotional well-being.

✅ You Appreciate Smart Connectivity - For nurses needing to stay connected without constantly reaching for their phone, this smartwatch's on-wrist call, text, and app notifications, along with built-in Alexa and Google Wallet & Maps, make it a perfect fit

❌ Smartphone Dependency Is a Deal-Breaker - If you prefer a smartwatch that operates fully independently without the need for a smartphone connection for its best features, this device might not meet your expectations

Special Features - Water Resistant, LED light, Calendar, 12/24-hour format, Stopwatch, Daily alarm, Hourly time signal
Case diameter - 30.0 millimeters
Display type - Digital
Shape - Rectangular

Short review

The Casio F-91WS-4 features a suite of functionalities designed to enhance nursing workflows.The digital display is clear and easy to read at a glance, an essential quality for healthcare professionals who are always on the move. Lightweight and comfortable, this watch can be worn throughout extended shifts without causing any discomfort, ensuring that nurses can perform their duties without any added inconvenience. Its 1/100 second stopwatch is ideal for tracking precise time intervals. The daily alarm and hourly time signal serve as helpful reminders for busy nurses, ensuring that important tasks and appointments are not overlooked. Water resistance of the Casio Classic F-91WS-4 ensures durability amidst the frequent hand washings and unexpected splashes that are part and parcel of nursing duties. The stainless steel (SS) caseback adds an extra layer of resilience, making this watch a reliable companion for those long, demanding shifts.

✅ You're Seeking Affordability Without Sacrificing Quality- Ideal for nursing professionals who need a reliable timekeeping tool that doesn't break the bank. This watch delivers essential functionalities at an affordable price point.

✅ Comfort and Long Wearability Matter - If you're looking for a lightweight, comfortable watch that can be worn throughout long nursing shifts without causing discomfort or inconvenience

❌ You're Looking for Advanced Smart Features - If you're interested in smartwatch capabilities like heart rate monitoring, step tracking, or smartphone notifications, this traditional digital watch may not meet your technology requirements.

Case diameter - 42.5mm
Case thickness- 13.6mm
Water Resistance - 10 bar
Distance between lugs - 22mm
Display Type - Analog
Crystal - Hardlex with lenses
Movement - Automatic with manual winding

Short review

It's durable stainless steel case and Hardlex glass ensure longevity and resistance to the daily rigors faced by healthcare professionals, from the accidental splashes to the inevitable bumps. Featuring a highly legible black dial with luminous hands and markers, the Seiko SSK001 ensures that nurses can easily read the time under any lighting conditions—crucial for administering medications timely or performing precise medical procedures. The Lumibrite technology on the hands and indexes guarantees outstanding visibility in low-light conditions, a common scenario in hospitals and healthcare facilities. GMT function is complemented by a unique two-color rotating bezel, visually separating night and day hours, enhancing usability for nurses working around the clock. Water-resistant up to 100 meters and featuring a date calendar for added convenience, the Seiko SSK001 caters to the dynamic needs of the nursing profession. Its automatic movement, with a power reserve of approximately 41 hours.

✅ You Value Durability - The Seiko SSK001's stainless steel case and Hardlex crystal are built to withstand the daily wear and tear of the nursing profession, making it ideal for those who prioritize longevity in their timepieces.

✅ Tracking a Second Time Zone is Beneficial -The GMT function with a distinct bezel design is excellent for nurses who work with international teams or have loved ones in different time zones, offering the convenience of monitoring two times at once.

❌ Budget Constraints - For those shopping within a limited budget, the Seiko SSK001, given its premium features and brand reputation, might exceed financial considerations, prompting a look at more cost-effective alternatives.

Model Name - Forerunner 55
Screen Size - 1.04 Inches
Connectivity Technology - Bluetooth
Battery Life - 20 Hours
Lens material - Chemically strengthened glass

Short review

Offering a harmonious balance of features, comfort, and price, this GPS running watch is specifically designed to cater to the dynamic demands of healthcare professionals. With a robust battery life of up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode and up to 20 hours in GPS mode, nurses can rely on the Forerunner 55 for extended period.
One of the watch's revered features is its water resistance, a crucial aspect for nurses who frequently engage in hand hygiene practices. The 5 ATM rating assures that splashes and brief immersions are not a concern, aligning well with the hygiene protocols in medical environments. Further enhancing its appeal to the nursing community is its suite of health monitoring capabilities; from wrist-based heart rate tracking to advanced wellness features like all-day respiration, Body Battery™ energy monitoring, and stress tracking, nurses can keep a vigilant eye on their health indicators. Ergonomically designed, the Garmin Forerunner 55 with its silicone strap and lightweight form factor is tailor-made for the rigorous demands of nursing.

✅ You Appreciate Long Battery Life - With up to 2 weeks of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 20 hours in GPS mode, this watch is ideal if you need a reliable device that can keep up with your long shifts and minimize the frequency of charges.

✅ You Seek a Water-Resistant Option - If your nursing duties often expose you to water through frequent handwashing or accidental splashes, the 5 ATM water-resistance rating of the Forerunner 55 ensures that your watch remains functional in such conditions.

❌ You Desire a Traditional Design - If your personal style leans towards classic or minimalist watches, the sporty design and digital interface of the Forerunner 55 might not align with your aesthetic preferences

Case diameter - 35 millimeters
Case Thickness -8 millimeters
Band Material -Resin
Band width -15 millimeters
Band size -8.5 Inches
Bezel function -Stationary
Water resistant depth - 30m

Short review

The MQ24-7B model boasts a classic round shape with a crisp white dial, ensuring easy readability - a crucial feature for nurses who frequently monitor time-sensitive medications and treatments. Encased in durable resin with a matching black band, this watch is designed for comfort during long shifts, avoiding the discomfort often associated with watches having metal links that nurses usually want to avoid. Its lightweight design, weighing just 20 grams, further enhances wearability, ensuring it doesn't interfere with a nurse's work performance or cause distraction. One of the most commendable features of this nursing watch is its water resistance up to 30 meters, providing peace of mind during inevitable exposure to liquids, a common occurrence in medical settings. Coupled with a resin glass dial window and a stationary bezel, the MQ24-7B stands as a paragon of durability among watches for medical professionals.

✅ You're a Nursing Student on a Budget- If you're seeking a highly affordable timepiece that doesn't compromise on essential features for your demanding schedule in healthcare, the Casio MQ24-7B is an unbeatable choice. It ticks all the boxes for functionality, durability, and practicality within a budget-friendly price range.
✅ You Prefer a Minimalist Design - If aesthetics matter to you and you lean towards a watch with a clean, uncluttered design that can easily blend with your nursing attire or casual wear, the Casio MQ24-7B's minimalist style will appeal to your taste.

❌ A Large Display or Bold Design is Key for You- Those who prefer watches with larger dials or more pronounced, fashionable designs might find the MQ24-7B too understated or small for their liking

Screen Size - 1.69 Inches
Shape - Heart
Compatible Devices - Smartphone
Special Features - GPS, Notifications, Phone Call, Text Messaging, Bluetooth, ECG, Heart Rate Monitor,

Short review

The Sense 2 is engineered to cater to the multifaceted needs of medical professionals. With its ECG app, nurses can perform quick heart rhythm assessments, an invaluable feature for personal health monitoring. SpO2 tracking enhances this package, offering insights into blood oxygen levels, which is critical in assessing respiratory health. Stress management is another cornerstone of the Fitbit Sense 2. The all-day stress tracking, coupled with an EDA Scan app, provides nurses with concrete data on their stress levels. This feature, along with guided breathing sessions and a detailed Stress Management Score, empowers nurses to take proactive steps to manage stress, a common challenge within the nursing profession. Beyond health features, the Fitbit Sense 2 boasts GPS tracking, 24/7 heart rate monitoring, and is designed for all-day wear with its comfortable band options (S & L bands included), shadow grey/graphite color, and a durable design. The ability to receive call, text, and app notifications ensures nurses stay connected, even on the busiest days.

✅ You Value Connectivity and Convenience- With on-wrist notifications for calls, texts, and apps, plus the inclusion of GPS and support for voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, the Fitbit Sense 2 ensures that staying connected doesn’t have to be a hassle, even during busy workdays
✅ Stress and Sleep Quality are Priorities - Nurses facing the high-stress environments of healthcare will find the stress management features, including all-day stress tracking, EDA Scan app, and detailed stress management scores, incredibly beneficial

❌ Budget is a Concern - If you're not interested in the health monitoring and smart capabilities it offers, or if the cost is beyond your budget for a smartwatch, you might want to consider more basic or cost-effective alternatives.

Special Features - Cycle Tracking, Activity Tracker, GPS, Voice Control, Heart Rate Monitor
Screen Size - 41 Millimeters
Shape - Rectangular
Target Audience -Unisex Adults
Model Name - Apple Watch Series 9
Compatible Devices - iPhone

Short review

The Series 9 features an array of advanced health monitoring tools, such as an ECG app that allows nurses to perform electrocardiograms on the fly—a vital feature for heart health awareness. Furthermore, its blood oxygen app and always-on heart rate monitoring provide continuous insights into vital health metrics. In terms of durability, the Series 9 shines with its crack-resistant front crystal, IP6X-certified dust resistance, and WR50 water resistance rating. It's crafted to withstand the spills and splashes that are all too common in medical environments, while the midnight sport band is both comfortable for all-day wear and easy to clean—a non-negotiable for hygiene in healthcare settings. Coupled with seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, this watch ensures nurses stay connected, receiving call and message notifications directly on their wrist. The Series 9's GPS feature is a boon for outdoor fitness enthusiasts, offering precise navigation for those rare but cherished moments of leisure.

✅ You're Invested in the Apple Ecosystem - For those already using Apple products, the Series 9 offers seamless integration with other devices in the Apple ecosystem. This connectivity can enhance your workflow, allowing you to receive notifications and use Siri directly from your wrist, keeping you connected without having to pull out your phone
✅ Durability Is a Priority for You - The Apple Watch Series 9 is designed to withstand the demanding environments often found in healthcare settings

❌ Battery Life Is a Deal-Breaker for You - While offering a range of features and capabilities, the Series 9 requires regular charging, typically every day. For nurses working long shifts or those who prefer a device with longer battery life to avoid frequent recharges, this may be a limiting factor

Special Features - Bluetooth
Screen Size - 1.1 Inches
Target Audience - Unisex Adult
Compatible Devices - Smartphone
Model Name - vivoactive
Color - Rose Gold with White Band

Short review

This smaller-sized GPS smartwatch, encased in a stylish rose gold finish with a white band, merges functionality with elegance, making it an outstanding choice for nurses. It's not just its looks that impress; the vivoactive 4S is packed with features aligned with the demands of the nursing profession. For those moments of downtime or while on the move, the music storage and streaming capability allows nurses to listen to their favorite tunes or podcasts directly from their wrist, enhancing their ability to unwind and relax. Durability is paramount in a healthcare setting, and the vivoactive 4S doesn’t disappoint. Sporting a Corning® Gorilla® Glass 3 and a 5 ATM water rating, it’s built to withstand the rigors of frequent hand washings and the occasional bumps and scrapes that can occur in busy hospitals or clinics.

✅ Compact Design Is Preferred - he Garmin vivoactive 4S offers a smaller-sized GPS smartwatch option, which is ideal for nurses or healthcare professionals who prefer a more compact and less obtrusive device on their wrist.
✅ Music and Smart Features Enhance Your Day - If having music directly on your wrist and seamless smartphone notifications can make your busy workday more enjoyable, the vivoactive 4S covers these needs.

❌ You Prefer a More Simplistic User Experience - vivoactive 4S might offer more functionality than needed for those seeking a device with simpler, more straightforward capabilities.