Technology
Top 10 Apple Smartwatch Alternatives Under $500
Apple has been the go-to brand for wearable technology, preferred by most tech enthusiasts and fitness aficionados. But for those seeking cross-platform compatibility, more customization options, or just getting the most value for money, they look for alternatives. We’ll help you find one with this list of the best Apple smartwatch alternatives under $500:
1. Galaxy Watch6 Classic
With its timeless and iconic look, the Galaxy Watch6 Classic is an excellent Apple Watch substitute at around $370. It has a rotating bezel lets you scroll through your apps, text, menus, tiles, and others. It operates on Android Wear OS 4 and has 16GB 2GB RAM on a Li-Ion 425 mAh, non-removable battery.
While its sibling, the Galaxy Watch6, costs less than $100, the difference is well worth it. The classic is made with durable stainless steel and a sapphire crystal front. It is water resistant up to 50 m, ECG certified, and comes with a blood pressure monitor, among many other features.
2. Google Pixel Watch 2
Claiming to provide you with personalized help for your health, safety, and productivity, the Google Pixel Watch 2 steps up to its promise. It has three sensors that give you precise info on your heart rate, skin temperature, and signs of stress.
It runs on Android Wear OS 4 and has an accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, altimeter, compass, SpO2, thermometer, skin conductance, and more. At around $350, this is an Apple watch substitute that you’ll want to wear day and night, thanks to its sleek and stylish appearance.
3. Garmin Instinct® 2X Solar
For those who thrive on adventures, the Garmin Instinct® 2X Solar is an excellent Apple smartwatch alternative. At only around $350, it has all the bells and whistles for people who lead rugged and adventurous lives. It comes equipped with an expansive solar charging lens that keeps it going for longer.
The Instinct is feature-packed with a built-in flashlight, health and wellness monitoring sensors, multi-band GNSS, and many others. Its patented Tracback Routing feature, reference point, and ABC sensors make it a watch built to last.
4. Fitbit Sense 2
Fitbit’s most advanced health and fitness smartwatch is the Sense 2. It can help you manage stress, understand sleep, and track your heart rate, among many other unique features. It has a sleek and slim design with raised band attachments for comfort.
Sense 2 can track your health and fitness stats for over six days without charging. At around $250, it offers access to Alexa, Google Maps, Google Wallet, Fitbit Pay, and many more. It has a color touch screen and is compatible with iOS and Android devices.
5. Huawei Watch GT
With its chic and polished look, the Huawei Watch GT is an affordable alternative to the Apple smartwatch at around $197. But don’t be fooled by its price, it is packed with features that make it worth every penny. It has a variety of sensors, such as an accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, and many others.
The Huawei Watch GT 4 46 mm has a 14-day battery life for maximum usage. It can help you manage your calorie intake, monitor your workout heart rate, and track your routes.
6. Fossil Gen 6 Wellness Edition Smartwatch
Inexpensive doesn’t necessarily mean poor quality. The Fossil Gen 6 Wellness Edition Smartwatch is proof of this. At just around $179, you’ll get a trendy and feature-rich Apple smartwatch alternative. This model is equipped with a lilac silicone strap that provides comfort, whether swimming or sleeping.
This Apple substitute provides wellness metrics such as heart rates, sleep insights, SpO2, and VO2 Max. It operates on Wear OS by Google and works with phones using the latest version of Android or iOS. It has 1GB of RAM and 8GB of storage.
7. Amazfit Active
If you think smartwatches are expensive, you’re very much mistaken. At around $150, Amazfit Active has the looks and features of a watch similar to Apple, but not its price. It has one of the longest-lasting battery life at two full weeks on a single charge.
Amazfit Active is equipped with Zepp Coach™, an AI-powered training feature. It works with five satellite systems to help you track your route and health and wellness apps to help you on your fitness journey.
8. Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5
With a classic look, excellent battery life, and a powerful processor, the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 will surely give Apple fierce competition. At around $350, this is a cost-effective alternative to an Apple smartwatch. It has a Corning Gorilla Glass and a recessed screen to keep scratches and shattering at bay.
This watch is responsive and fast, thanks to the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 wearable platform, 2GB of RAM, and 32GB of storage. It can go up to 80 hours on its 628mAh battery.
9. Skagen Falster Gen 6
If you want to track your heart rate, sleep, and GPS, the Skagen Falster Gen 6 is an excellent alternative to an Apple smartwatch. It is affordable, costs about $295, and has many beautiful features. It is compatible with both Android and iOS platforms.
What makes this Apple watch alternative is its ability to charge faster. You can get 80% of your charge in just around 30 minutes. It comes equipped with the latest Snapdragon Wear 4100 Plus chipset, which makes its battery more efficient.
10. Polar Ignite 3
Track and monitor your fitness and wellness journey in style with the Polar Ignite 3. It comes with many exclusive features such as Nightly Recharge™, SleepWise™, and Nightly Skin Temperature, to name a few. It has a heart rate monitor, GNSS, 24/7 activity monitoring, and an ultra-long battery life.
The Polar Ignite can help you train and recover with its calorie counter, fat, protein, carbs breakdown, and many other valuable features. At approximately $330, this Apple alternative is a steal.
Conclusion
If you think Apple is the end-all and be-all of smartwatches, this list of the best Apple smartwatch alternatives list will prove you otherwise.
If you haven’t found the right gaming headphones, you’re probably not searching in the right places. Better yet, you probably don’t know how to choose one. Your gaming headphones must have excellent quality, comfortable, reliable connectivity, and multiple features. Here are the 10 best gaming headphones of 2024.
1. SteelSeries Arctis Pro
The SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless offers outstanding high-fidelity sound quality and a premium build. It provides the ability to connect to a console and mobile device simultaneously. The headset features an excellent microphone that filters noise and a comfortable design. Despite low wireless latency, it has limited noise isolation. The unique battery charging system enhances gaming sessions. Drawback: no dedicated microphone volume button.
2. HyperX Cloud II
This headset features low latency and balanced audio quality, including virtual surround sound. Its noise-filtering microphone is clear, and the comfortable ear cups allow for extended gaming sessions. However, the lack of software customization and breathability can lead to warm ears. Pros include good sound and comfort, but cons involve poor noise isolation and potential sound sharpness.
3. Razer BlackShark V2
Deemed as one of the top gaming headsets, the Razer BlackShark V2 provides excellent sound isolation, comfort, and high-quality sound. It delivers more accurate audio than most gaming headsets and can be worn for hours without overheating. Its downsides include an average microphone and cumbersome Synapse software.
4. Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless SE
Looking for a premium gaming headset? The Corsair Virtuoso Wireless SE is a premium gaming headset offering excellent wireless connectivity, superb sound, and customizable RGB lighting. It features a high-quality microphone, long battery life, and a sturdy build. While it delivers a compelling package, its higher price, and potential heat build-up during long sessions may be drawbacks.
5. Logitech G Pro X
The Logitech G Pro X gaming headset offers professional-grade sound and Blue Voice microphone technology for clear communication. While it excels on PC with its comfortable design and extensive sound customization, its reliance on software hampers performance on consoles. The headset features multiple wired connectivity options, but the microphone may underemphasize bass.
6. Beyerdynamic MMX 150
Nothing beats this headset’s superior audio quality and comfortable design, making it an excellent choice for audiophile gamers. It features many replaceable parts and strong fundamentals, although it is best used with a wired USB connection. Despite its solid construction, the headset may be expensive, given its features and limited button functionality with a 3.5mm adapter.
7. EPOS H6PRO
The Epos H6Pro is a versatile mid-range gaming headset with exceptional audio quality and an ergonomic design. It offers a clear, punchy sound and a crystal-clear microphone. Compatibility with all systems makes it convenient, and users can choose between open or closed-back variants. The open version leaks audio, and the mic splitter can be inconvenient.
8. Astro A50
The fourth generation of the Astro A50 is a premium wireless gaming headset that offers an immersive experience with Dolby Audio. The headset features a low-latency wireless base station and a comfortable design for long gaming sessions. Its boom mic provides excellent recording quality and effective noise isolation. Onboard controls allow for volume adjustments and other settings, though occasional issues exist with the companion software. The headset’s open soundstage is a strength, but its noise isolation is lacking.
9. Audeze Mobius
The Audeze Mobius is known for its planar magnetic drivers and 3D audio technology, offering a distinctive listening experience. While it comes at a higher price, its exceptional audio quality and multiple connectivity options make it a top choice for gaming enthusiasts. The headset supports 7.1, stereo, and Bluetooth modes, and the 3D audio works well. However, the price may be a drawback, and the memory foam takes time to adapt for comfort.
10. Sennheiser GSP 670
Buying this headset offers superb sound quality, comfort, and a dependable wireless connection, all in one package. Despite its high price, it delivers top-notch audio and a good microphone. The headset is ideal for gamers seeking a premium wireless experience and remote workers needing an all-day option. However, the connection range can be inconsistent.
For more tech and gaming recs, check out more here at Owner’s Mag!
Getting a reliable robot vacuum means you can lay around on your couch while the cleaner does the heavy lifting! Our team searched high and low for the best robot vacuum, and we can say we enjoyed testing them! Here are our top 10 picks for the robot vacuums of 2024.
1. iRobot Roomba j7+
The Roomba j7+ is the best robot vacuum overall. It features self-emptying capabilities, intelligent navigation, and an easy-to-use app. Despite being loud and having average battery life, it recognizes up to 80 household objects, ensuring your home gets cleaned while avoiding cords and shoes. PrecisionVision Navigation and the P.O.O.P. guarantee add to its appeal.
Price:
- $642.80 on Amazon
2. iRobot Roomba s9+
We all agree that this is the best robot vacuum for pet hair. It features a D-shaped design for corner cleaning, exceptional suction power, and an auto-empty base. Though expensive and with average battery life, it offers 40 times power-lifting suction, 30% wider dual multi-surface rubber brushes, and Dirt Detect technology for tackling excessive pet hair and dirt.
Price:
- $899.99 on Amazon
3. Eufy S1 Pro
If you’re looking for a robot vacuum with powerful suction, look no further. The Eufy S1 Pro boasts an 8,000PA suction and self-washing mop head for unparalleled cleaning efficiency. Intelligent mapping ensures precision, while speed and effectiveness set it apart. Despite being expensive and loud, its cutting-edge self-cleaning technology and power make it a top-tier choice.
Price:
- $999 on Kickstarter
4. Shark ION AV751
If you need a robot vacuum on a tight budget, the Shark ION AV751 is for you. This robot vacuum offers excellent suction power and a 120-minute run time. Its tri-brush system and stair/cliff edge detection make it efficient. Alexa and Google Assistant integration adds convenience, making it a manageable option for those seeking simplicity.
Price:
- $319.99 on Amazon
5. Neato Botvac D8
The Neato D8, known for its D-shaped design, excels in corner cleaning and advanced mapping. Ideal for smaller homes, it offers 100-minute battery life and a lidar for space mapping. The app supports no-go zones and scheduling, though it can’t map multiple floors and may climb low furniture and ledges.
Price:
- $699.99 on Amazon
6. Bobsweep PetHair Vision
Designed for pet owners, this vacuum excels at pet hair removal and offers smart navigation and mopping capabilities. Its quiet operation and three-inch height allow easy cleaning under furniture. With longer battery life, it efficiently covers large areas. The drawback? Its cleaning schedule may reset unexpectedly, and customer service follow-through can be slow.
Price:
- $399.99 on Amazon
7. Dreame X30 Ultra
This best 2-in-1 vacuum and mop offers quiet, self-emptying, dual oscillating mop heads and MopExtend mop pads. Although it has an app that’s not very user-friendly and is expensive with recurring costs, it provides comprehensive cleaning of all surfaces. Its multi-functional base station and 8300PA suction power ensure efficient home maintenance.
Price:
- $1,399.99 on Amazon
8. Samsung Jet Bot AI+
If you don’t mind the bulky size, the Samsung Jet Bot AI+ is a good robot vacuum option. Its self-cleaning base adds convenience. This robot vacuum has an attractive design and advanced AI for obstacle avoidance.
Price:
- $899.99 on Amazon
9. Dyson 360 Heurist
The Dyson 360 Heurist offers exceptional cleaning power with solid suction and intelligent mapping. This premium robot vacuum reaches edges effectively, thanks to its motorized brush. Though slow to set up, its precise map fine-tuning and methodical cleaning make it a top choice.
Price:
- $399.99 on Amazon
10. Roborock S8 Pro Ultra
Nothing is more self-sufficient than this all-in-one robot vacuum. It’s self-cleaning, self-emptying, self-washing, self-drying, and self-refilling! Plus, it uses VibraRise mopping and customizable cleaning routines.
Price:
$949.99 on Amazon
Mental health chatbots have become reliable companions for those who can’t afford therapy. However, these chatbots aren’t a real replacement for actual therapists. They can provide temporary comfort and aid mental health professionals in tracking patients’ moods and other necessary information to provide quality care. But with AI being more accessible and free, especially to teens, will more people depend on AI chatbots in the future?
The Latest in AI Chatbot & Mental Health
Mental health chatbots are on the rise. Wysa and Woebot are two well-known examples. But, one AI chatbot is much more popular than the others: the Psychologist bot on Character.ai. According to the BBC, Character.ai helps millions of users talk to the bot and other mental health-related ones to address any concerns.
Character.ai allows users to create bots to help others talk to their favorite characters or “individuals.” So far, the Psychologist and other mental health-adjacent bots have received millions of messages from multiple users. Character.ai users have shared their reviews on the social media forum Reddit about their experiences with the bot. So far, the bot has received nothing but amazing reviews.
For instance, one user messaged Psychologist to help with relationship issues and to communicate with their partner.
There’s one person to thank for this: Blazeman98. He hoped to help others because he wanted someone to talk to when his friends weren’t available. But this isn’t the only AI chatbot internet users can approach for their mental health concerns.
Other Mental Health Chatbots
Woebot is one well-known mental health chatbot. The team behind the chatbot uses cognitive behavioral techniques to help users talk about their feelings, and the chatbot will respond with compassion. Plus, it can give simple solutions to get you through the moment. It covers multiple mental health issues like needs, feeling capable, relationships, coping, and more. The chatbot helps adults, adolescents, and mothers. You can download Woebot in the App Store or Google Play Store.
If you have anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorders, and other mental health concerns, you can download Youper. This chatbot helps you track your moods every day. Plus, you can chat with the bot anytime you need help.
Wysa is another option to consider if you want an alternative to Character.ai. However, Wysa is ideal for businesses prioritizing mental health in the workplace. The chatbot helps the patient talk about what’s worrying them. Plus, it checks in with the patient and suggests exercises to improve their well-being. However, Wysa can connect patients to professionals.
Addressing Loneliness
Since AI chatbots don’t have any certification or accreditation to give advice or provide counseling, AI chatbots are excellent companions for lonely people. Meta-Gallup reports that a quarter of the global population feels lonely. With the rise of AI, more people can rely on AI to talk to them and provide companionship that others can’t offer, whether in real life or on the internet.
However, Business Insider writer Daniel Cox believes that more people will be lonely as they talk to AI often. It’s all because of the lack of human connection. Gen Z, in particular, will feel this loneliness even more so. Since they grew up with technology, talking to chatbots is a pathway for them when they need someone to talk to when they don’t have anyone else or because of the potential harm social media brings to users.
How Safe is it to Use AI Chatbots?
Although you can talk to an AI chatbot with the touch of a button, it could be risky to depend on an AI chatbot for mental health-related issues or companionship.
One issue that arises when talking to AI chatbots is your privacy. One recent example of a data leak comes from Microsoft when an employee unknowingly leaked 38TB (that’s right, terabytes) of data. That’s a possibility, especially if data isn’t stored properly. Or, in the employee’s case, they posted the wrong URL.
Another issue that comes up is bias and discrimination. For instance, one chatbot was taken down for the language it used while conversing with users on Twitter. Due to the unfortunate incident, it was forced to shut down because of an uncoordinated attack.
The chatbots mentioned above ensure safety and security through data encryption. Plus, they use language that won’t trigger or encourage users to harm themselves or someone else. Additionally, chatbots avoid giving diagnoses and aren’t discriminatory or biased. Moreover, some AI chatbots are HIPAA-compliant, ensuring they follow regulatory health standards. Finally, the chatbots won’t sell your data to third-party or advertising companies.
Final Thoughts
AI chatbots can be a companion when you’re lonely or need to discuss mental health conditions or symptoms. However, they are not a full replacement for a human therapist as they can only provide solutions to help you get through the moment, track your moods, and give you insights.
Character.ai provides a free solution to talk to a “Psychologist” bot anytime, but note that you’re not talking to a professional. If that’s bothersome for you, you can use other mental health chatbots to direct you to the help you need. This way, you’ll also have a safe and secure experience while conversing with chatbots built by professionals.
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