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Best Smartwatches for Big Wrists

In the ever-evolving world of wearable technology, smartwatches have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. These compact devices offer a plethora of features, from fitness tracking to smartphone notifications, all conveniently accessible from our wrists. However, for individuals with larger wrists, finding the perfect smartwatch can be a challenging task. Many popular smartwatches are designed with average wrist sizes in mind, leaving those with bigger wrists struggling to find a comfortable and stylish option.

The smartwatch market has experienced significant growth in recent years, with global shipments reaching 533.6 million units in 2021 and projections indicating continued expansion. As the market diversifies, manufacturers are increasingly recognizing the need to cater to a wider range of wrist sizes. This article aims to guide you through the process of selecting the ideal smartwatch for larger wrists, focusing on five top-tier options that combine style, functionality, and comfort.

The Importance of Proper Fit for Comfort and Functionality

When it comes to smartwatches, proper fit is not just about aesthetics; it's crucial for both comfort and functionality. A watch that's too small for a large wrist can look disproportionate and feel uncomfortable, potentially leading to skin irritation or restricted blood flow. Moreover, an ill-fitting smartwatch may not sit correctly on the wrist, affecting the accuracy of various sensors, such as heart rate monitors and motion detectors.

On the other hand, a well-fitted smartwatch for a larger wrist offers numerous benefits:

  1. Enhanced Comfort: A watch that fits properly won't feel tight or restrictive, allowing for all-day wear without discomfort.
  2. Improved Sensor Accuracy: When a smartwatch sits correctly on the wrist, its sensors can make better contact with the skin, leading to more accurate health and fitness tracking.
  3. Better Aesthetics: A proportionate watch face and band on a larger wrist create a more balanced and stylish look.
  4. Easier Interaction: Larger smartwatches often feature bigger screens and buttons, making it easier for individuals with larger hands to navigate the interface.
  5. Improved Durability: A watch that fits well is less likely to get caught on clothing or objects, reducing the risk of damage.

As we delve deeper into this guide, we'll explore the key factors to consider when choosing a smartwatch for big wrists, and highlight five exceptional options that cater specifically to this need. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a tech-savvy professional, or someone who simply appreciates a well-designed timepiece, this article will help you find the perfect smartwatch to complement your larger wrist.

Understanding Wrist Sizes and Watch Dimensions

Before diving into specific smartwatch recommendations, it's crucial to understand what constitutes a "big wrist" and how watch dimensions play a role in finding the right fit. This knowledge will empower you to make an informed decision when selecting a smartwatch that not only looks great but also functions optimally on your wrist.

What Constitutes a 'Big Wrist'?

Wrist size is typically measured in circumference, and what's considered "big" can vary depending on factors such as gender, body composition, and personal perception. However, as a general guideline:

  • For men, wrists over 7 inches (17.8 cm) in circumference are often considered large.
  • For women, wrists over 6.5 inches (16.5 cm) in circumference might be considered large.

It's important to note that wrist size isn't just about circumference. The width of your wrist (measured across the top) also plays a role in how a watch will look and feel. Individuals with wider wrists may find that even watches with longer straps can look small if the case diameter isn't proportionate.

Key Measurements to Consider

When choosing a smartwatch for a larger wrist, several key measurements come into play:

  1. Case Diameter: This is the width of the watch face, typically measured in millimeters. For larger wrists, look for case diameters of 42mm and above.
  2. Case Thickness: This measurement indicates how far the watch protrudes from your wrist. While thicker cases can add to the substantial feel of a watch, they may also make it more prone to snagging on clothing.
  3. Lug-to-Lug Distance: This is the length of the watch from the top of one lug to the bottom of the opposite lug. A longer lug-to-lug distance can help the watch sit better on wider wrists.
  4. Band Width: The width of the strap or bracelet should be proportionate to the case size and your wrist. For larger wrists, band widths of 22mm or more often look more balanced.
  5. Band Length: Ensure the band is long enough to comfortably fit around your wrist with some adjustment room.

Watch Case Sizes and Their Suitability for Different Wrist Sizes

To help you visualize how different watch sizes might look on various wrist sizes, here's a general guide:

Case DiameterSuitable Wrist Size RangeNotes
38-40mm6-7 inchesMay look small on wrists over 7 inches
42-44mm6.5-7.5 inchesVersatile size, suits many wrist sizes
45-47mm7-8 inchesIdeal for larger wrists, may overwhelm smaller wrists
48mm+7.5+ inchesBest suited for very large wrists

Remember, these are general guidelines, and personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right watch size. Some individuals with larger wrists may prefer a more subtle look with a smaller watch, while others might opt for a bold, oversized style regardless of their wrist size.

As we move forward to explore specific smartwatch options for big wrists, keep these measurements and guidelines in mind. They'll help you assess each option's suitability for your unique wrist size and shape, ensuring you find a smartwatch that not only fits well but also aligns with your style preferences and functional needs.

Top 5 Smartwatches for Big Wrists

Now that we've established the key factors to consider when choosing a smartwatch for larger wrists, let's dive into our top 5 recommendations. These smartwatches have been selected based on their size, features, and suitability for individuals with bigger wrists.

Comparison Table: Features

FeatureApple Watch Series 9 (45mm)Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic (47mm)Garmin Fenix 7X SolarTicWatch Pro 3 Ultra GPSSuunto 7
Case Size45mm47mm51mm47mm50mm
DisplayAlways-On Retina LTPO OLEDSuper AMOLED1.4" transflective1.4" AMOLED + FSTNAMOLED
Battery LifeUp to 18 hoursUp to 40 hoursUp to 37 days (with solar)Up to 72 hoursUp to 40 days (battery saver)
Water Resistance50m5ATM + IP68100mIP6850m
GPSYesYesMulti-band GNSSYesYes
Health FeaturesECG, Blood Oxygen, Sleep TrackingECG, Blood Pressure, Body CompositionHeart Rate, Pulse Ox, Sleep ScoreHeart Rate, SpO2, Sleep TrackingHeart Rate, Sleep Tracking
ProsExcellent ecosystem, health featuresRotating bezel, versatileExceptional battery life, ruggedDual-layer display, long batterySports modes, offline maps
ConsShort battery life, iOS onlyLimited third-party appsExpensive, complex for casual usersWear OS can be laggyLimited smartwatch features

Now, let's take a closer look at each of these smartwatches, exploring their key specs, unique selling points for large wrists, and user ratings.

1. Apple Watch Series 9 

The Apple Watch Series 9 in its 45mm variant is an excellent choice for those with larger wrists who are invested in the Apple ecosystem.

  • Case Size: 45mm
  • Display: Always-On Retina LTPO OLED, up to 2000 nits brightness
  • Processor: S9 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor
  • Storage: 64GB
  • Battery Life: Up to 18 hours

Unique Selling Points for Large Wrists:

  1. The 45mm case size provides a substantial presence on larger wrists without being overwhelming.
  2. The Always-On Retina display offers excellent visibility, even for those with larger hands and fingers.
  3. Customizable watch faces allow for larger complications, making information easy to read at a glance.
  4. Wide range of band options, including longer sizes for larger wrists.

User Ratings: 4.8/5 based on customer reviews

The Apple Watch Series 9 excels in its integration with the iOS ecosystem, offering seamless connectivity with iPhones and other Apple devices. Its health and fitness tracking capabilities are top-notch, including features like ECG, blood oxygen monitoring, and advanced workout metrics. The new S9 chip provides improved performance and enables features like on-device Siri processing.

For individuals with larger wrists, the 45mm case size strikes a good balance between screen real estate and wearability. The customizable watch faces allow users to display information in larger fonts, making it easier to read notifications and health data at a glance.

However, the Apple Watch's main drawback is its relatively short battery life compared to some competitors. Users with larger wrists might find themselves charging the device more frequently, especially if they make heavy use of its features. Additionally, its exclusivity to iOS devices limits its appeal to non-iPhone users.

2. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 offers a perfect blend of traditional watch aesthetics and modern smartwatch functionality, making it an excellent choice for those with larger wrists.

  • Case Size: 47mm
  • Display: 1.5" Super AMOLED, 480x480 resolution
  • Processor: Exynos W930 Dual-Core 1.4GHz
  • Storage: 16GB
  • Battery Life: Up to 40 hours

Unique Selling Points for Large Wrists:

  1. The 47mm case size provides a substantial presence on larger wrists.
  2. The rotating bezel offers intuitive navigation, especially beneficial for users with larger fingers.
  3. Classic watch design with a large, clear display that's easy to read.
  4. Customizable watch faces with options for larger fonts and complications.

User Ratings: 4.6/5 based on customer reviews

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 stands out with its traditional watch-like appearance, featuring a physical rotating bezel that not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also provides an intuitive way to navigate the interface. This feature is particularly beneficial for users with larger hands, as it reduces the need for precise touchscreen interactions.

The watch runs on Wear OS powered by Samsung, offering a wide range of apps and seamless integration with Android devices, particularly Samsung smartphones. It boasts an impressive array of health and fitness features, including ECG, blood pressure monitoring, and body composition analysis.

For those with larger wrists, the 47mm case size ensures the watch looks proportionate and stylish. The Super AMOLED display is bright and crisp, making it easy to read in various lighting conditions. The watch also offers a good balance between functionality and battery life, lasting up to 40 hours on a single charge.

However, while the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is compatible with non-Samsung Android phones and iPhones, some features are limited when not paired with a Samsung device. Additionally, the app ecosystem, while improved, still lags behind Apple's offerings.

3. Garmin Fenix 7X Solar

The Garmin Fenix 7X Solar is a premium multisport GPS watch that's built to withstand the toughest conditions, making it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts with larger wrists.

  • Case Size: 51mm
  • Display: 1.4" transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP)
  • Battery Life: Up to 37 days in smartwatch mode with solar charging
  • Water Resistance: 100m

Unique Selling Points for Large Wrists:

  1. The 51mm case size is perfect for larger wrists, providing a robust and substantial feel.
  2. Exceptional battery life means less frequent charging, which can be more cumbersome for larger watches.
  3. Highly durable design suited for outdoor activities and sports.
  4. Large, easy-to-read display with a new touchscreen interface.

User Ratings: 4.7/5 based on customer reviews

The Garmin Fenix 7X Solar is a powerhouse of a smartwatch, especially appealing to those with larger wrists who enjoy outdoor activities and need a device that can keep up with their adventures. Its 51mm case size ensures it looks proportionate on bigger wrists while providing ample screen space for displaying a wealth of information.

One of the standout features of the Fenix 7X Solar is its incredible battery life. With solar charging capabilities, it can last up to 37 days in smartwatch mode or up to 122 hours in GPS mode. This extended battery life is particularly beneficial for a larger watch, as it reduces the frequency of charges, which can be more cumbersome with bigger devices.

The watch excels in its fitness and outdoor features, offering advanced metrics for a wide range of activities, from running and cycling to skiing and golf. It also provides detailed mapping and navigation features, making it an excellent companion for hikers and trail runners.

For users with larger hands, the combination of button controls and the new touchscreen interface offers flexible and easy interaction with the device. The transflective MIP display ensures excellent readability in bright sunlight, a crucial feature for outdoor use.

However, the Fenix 7X Solar's comprehensive feature set comes with a steep learning curve and a premium price tag. Its size, while perfect for larger wrists, may be overwhelming for some users or in more formal settings. Additionally, while it offers smartwatch features like notifications and music control, it doesn't provide the same level of smart functionality as some competitors, lacking features like voice assistants or LTE connectivity.

4. TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS

The TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS offers a unique dual-display technology and robust features, making it a solid choice for those with larger wrists looking for a Wear OS smartwatch.

  • Case Size: 47mm
  • Display: 1.4" AMOLED (454x454) + FSTN LCD
  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 4100 Platform and Mobvoi dual processor system
  • Storage: 8GB

Unique Selling Points for Large Wrists:

  1. The 47mm case provides a good size for larger wrists without being overly bulky.
  2. Dual-layer display technology offers excellent readability and extended battery life.
  3. Customizable backlight colors for the FSTN display add a unique touch.
  4. Robust build quality suitable for active lifestyles.

User Ratings: 4.3/5 based on customer reviews

The TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS stands out with its innovative dual-layer display technology. The primary AMOLED display offers vibrant colors and sharp visuals for regular smartwatch use, while the secondary FSTN LCD display provides always-on time and basic fitness information with minimal battery drain. This feature is particularly useful for those with larger wrists who want a watch that's both functional and long-lasting.

Running on Wear OS by Google, the TicWatch Pro 3

Ultra GPS offers a wide range of apps and features, including Google Pay, Google Assistant, and access to the Google Play Store. The Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 4100 processor ensures smooth performance, which is crucial for a pleasant user experience, especially on a larger watch face where lag would be more noticeable.

For users with larger wrists, the 47mm case size strikes a good balance between screen real estate and wearability. The customizable backlight colors for the FSTN display add a unique touch, allowing users to personalize their watch's appearance to match their style or outfit.

The watch excels in fitness tracking, offering over 100 workout modes and essential health monitoring features like 24/7 heart rate tracking, blood oxygen monitoring, and sleep tracking. The built-in GPS and barometer make it suitable for outdoor activities, while its IP68 water resistance rating ensures it can withstand sweat, rain, and even swimming.

However, while the TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS offers impressive battery life compared to many Wear OS watches, it still falls short of some dedicated fitness watches. Additionally, some users report that the Wear OS platform can occasionally be laggy or inconsistent, which may be frustrating for those used to the smoothness of other operating systems.

5. Suunto 7

The Suunto 7 is a versatile smartwatch that combines Suunto's sports expertise with Wear OS smartwatch features, making it an excellent choice for active individuals with larger wrists.

  • Case Size: 50mm
  • Display: 1.39" AMOLED, 454 x 454 pixels
  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 3100
  • Storage: 8GB
  • Battery Life: Up to 2 days in smartwatch mode

Unique Selling Points for Large Wrists:

  1. The 50mm case size is ideal for larger wrists, offering a substantial presence.
  2. Large, high-resolution display provides excellent readability.
  3. Robust build quality suitable for outdoor activities.
  4. Offline outdoor maps and heatmaps are particularly useful on the larger screen.

User Ratings: 4.2/5 based on customer reviews