Almost everyone has a smartwatch these days, and it’s easy to understand why. Tracking hikes, steps, sleep, heart rate, notifications… it’s a ton of information, all available on your wrist.
But they’re also small pieces of tech, which means mining, batteries, and materials that aren’t exactly low impact. So unlike with clothing or skincare products, there isn’t really a “perfect” sustainable option available. Still, some choices are definitely better than others.
For me, this is less about finding a perfectly eco-friendly smartwatch and more about buying something that lasts, choosing to support companies that are at least trying, and not replacing it every couple of years.
What to Look For in a Better Smartwatch
🌲 Longevity
The longer you keep it, the lower the impact. A watch you use for 4–5 years is already a much better choice than upgrading constantly.
🌲 Battery life (or solar charging)
Charging less often puts less strain on the battery and can extend the overall lifespan.
🌲 Repairability
This is still a weak point for most smartwatches, but you can find some guides on iFixit (more on this cool site here).
🌲 Recycled materials
Some brands are starting to use recycled metals, plastics, and packaging.
🌲 Interchangeable straps
Being able to swap a worn strap instead of replacing the whole watch makes a big difference.
🌲 Brand transparency
Even if it’s not perfect, it’s a good sign when a company is open about the materials used and their impact.
1. Garmin
If you want something that’s going to last, Garmin is one of the strongest options out there. Their watches are built for hiking, running, and outdoor use, so they’re generally more durable than average.
The solar models are especially interesting. They don’t run entirely on solar, but they extend the battery life enough that you’re charging far less often, which can help the watch last longer overall.
Recommended Products: Garmin Instinct 2 Solar, Garmin Fenix 7 Solar, Garmin Vivoactive 6
Materials: Fiber-reinforced polymer, stainless steel or titanium components, glass displays, some recycled packaging (varies by model)
What stands out here is durability. These are watches people tend to keep for years, not replace every season, which already puts them in a better place from a sustainability perspective.
2. Apple
Apple has been making noticeable progress on materials and supply chain impact in recent years. Some newer models include a high percentage of recycled aluminum, as well as recycled rare earth elements and metals in internal components.
They’ve also introduced “carbon neutral” configurations for certain models, depending on how you spec them.
That said, repairability is still limited, so how sustainable it is really depends on how long you keep it.
Recommended Products: Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen), Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch Ultra 2
Materials: Recycled aluminum, recycled cobalt, recycled rare earth elements, glass, silicon or textile bands
If you’re already in the Apple ecosystem and know you’ll actually use it long-term, it can still be a reasonable choice. It’s more about avoiding frequent upgrades.
3. Samsung
Samsung is moving in a similar direction, especially when it comes to using recycled materials. Some models include ocean-bound plastics and more sustainable packaging compared to older versions.
Like Apple, the main limitation is still repairability. These are not devices designed to be easily fixed at home.
Recommended Products: Galaxy Watch 6, Galaxy Watch 5 Pro
Materials: Recycled plastics, aluminum casing, glass display, synthetic or silicone straps
It’s not perfect, but it’s a step forward compared to where most consumer tech used to be.
4. Hybrid and Low-Tech Alternatives
If you don’t actually need a full smartwatch, this is where things can get a bit more interesting.
Hybrid watches give you a few smart features like activity tracking or notifications, but without the full screen and constant charging. They tend to be simpler, sometimes more durable, and often last longer.
Some smaller brands are also experimenting with reduced electronics and more traditional watch designs, which can be easier to maintain over time.
Recommended Options: Norm Denmark Mechanical Smartwatch, Withings ScanWatch
Materials: Stainless steel cases, mineral glass, interchangeable straps (sometimes leather or bio-based materials), fewer electronic components
They’re not as feature-heavy, but if you’re mainly looking for something simple to wear every day, they can feel like a much more balanced option.
With something like a smartwatch, the most sustainable option is usually the one that already exists. Whether it’s the one you already have, or the refurbished one you find online.
Keeping it longer, charging it a bit more mindfully, and replacing small parts like straps instead of the whole watch all make a difference.
If you are buying new, it helps to choose something you actually like wearing and will stick with. That alone tends to reduce how often you feel the need to upgrade.
And if you don’t need all the features, going for something simpler can sometimes be the better choice. Less tech, fewer components, and often a longer lifespan.
It’s not a perfect product, but there are definitely ways to make more thoughtful choices here.