Best 2026 Smartwatches for band quality

#1 Garmin Forerunner 170
4.5

The silicone strap is soft, stretchy, and easy to replace, while the 170’s metal clasp feels nicer than the cheaper model’s plastic hardware.

Pros: recovery insights, fitness tracking accuracy

Cons: ECG functionality, call handling

#2 Garmin Forerunner 170 Music
4.5

The silicone band feels soft and stretchy, with the 170 models adding nicer metal hardware and subtle two-tone styling.

Pros: music controls, pairing reliability

Cons: LTE connectivity, ECG functionality

#3 Amazfit Active 3 Premium
4.4

Band quality has limited positive evidence because the standard 20 mm non-proprietary band format is praised.

Pros: pairing reliability, brightness

Cons: Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth connectivity

#4 Polar Street X
4.0

Band quality was positive in hands-on use, with the reviewer liking the strap texture.

Pros: workout tracking variety, flashlight usefulness

Cons: blood oxygen tracking, ECG functionality

#5 Garmin Forerunner 70
3.8

The silicone band is generally soft, stretchy, and comfortable, though one owner disliked the stock strap enough to replace it. Fit and feel may depend on personal preference.

Pros: step counting accuracy, app ecosystem

Cons: Bluetooth connectivity, pairing reliability

#6 Amazfit Balance 3
3.8

Most testers found the standard 22mm silicone band comfortable, ventilated, and easy to swap. One reviewer developed itching during extended wear, making the stock strap a possible weak point for...

Pros: battery life, watch face quality

Cons: activity auto-detection, LTE connectivity

#7 Amazfit Cheetah 2 Ultra
3.6

Band quality is mixed: some reviewers like the included bands, while another calls the strap the build’s weakest part.

Pros: software smoothness, flashlight usefulness

Cons: sleep tracking accuracy, ECG functionality

#8 Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2
3.5

Band quality was mixed: one reviewer disliked the thick rigid strap, while others liked the secure, quick-release design.

Pros: display quality, brightness

Cons: onboard music storage, size options

#9 Amazfit Cheetah 2 Pro
3.3

Band reactions were split: some reviewers found it comfortable or even a favorite, while others called it cheap, not premium, or irritating.

Pros: calorie tracking usefulness, durability

Cons: ECG functionality, size options