Smartwatches aren’t just timepieces—they’re portals to our digital lives, fashion statements, health trackers, and productivity boosters. As technology surges forward in 2025, designers are fusing minimalism, nostalgia, sci-fi aesthetics, and cutting-edge AI to create wearables that cater to every style and need. Whether you’re a fitness fanatic, a retro gamer, or a fan of avant-garde design, there’s a smartwatch crafted just for you. Here are the top 10 smartwatches to consider this May, each bringing something unique to your wrist.
May 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark moment for smartwatches, with designs that challenge conventions and cater to every personality. Whether you’re drawn to the mindful minimalism of the Vetra Orbit One, the transformative health insights of the Allai Wearable-1, or the bold statement of the A_001 PowerWatch, there’s never been a better time to embrace the future on your wrist.
1. Vetra Orbit One
Minimalism is having a moment, but the Vetra Orbit One concept smartwatch doesn’t just embrace the aesthetic—it channels it into every interaction. Unlike the endless notifications and glowing screens that define most wearables, the Orbit One is a breath of fresh air. Its e-ink display delivers a paper-like clarity that’s easy on the eyes, ensuring legibility in sunlight and dramatically extending battery life.
What makes it excellent is its tactile control wheel, which reintroduces the satisfying sensation of physical interaction. Instead of swiping and tapping, you feel the deliberate click of the bezel, echoing the experience of winding a classic timepiece. This sensory touch brings a meditative quality to daily routines, reducing digital overwhelm and making every action feel intentional.
What we like
- The tactile control wheel offers a unique, mindful interaction, reducing screen fatigue and enhancing user experience.
- E-ink display ensures superb readability in all lighting conditions while maximizing battery longevity.
What we dislike
- Limited display colors and animations may not appeal to users seeking vibrant visuals.
- The minimalist interface might lack advanced app integrations present in more conventional smartwatches.
2. Minimal Watch Concept
The Minimal Watch Concept boldly reimagines what a smartwatch can be, breaking away from the traditional design molds. Instead of a single, all-encompassing display, it uses four distinct screens arranged in a cross pattern, each with a specific purpose. The topmost circular display tells the time in a unique speedometer-inspired fashion, while the middle row houses a pill-shaped display for primary content like messages or caller ID, flanked by a smaller screen for related details.
The bottom circle serves as an action hub, displaying context-sensitive options or quick info like weather or controls. This fragmented approach reduces visual noise and distractions, encouraging users to focus on what truly matters. Each display’s specialized role means you only see essential information, minimizing the temptation to endlessly scroll or fidget with apps.
What we like
- Segmented displays help compartmentalize information, reducing distractions and promoting mindfulness.
- The cross-shaped, minimalistic design stands out as a conversation starter and appeals to lovers of avant-garde fashion.
What we dislike
- Dividing functionality across multiple screens can complicate navigation and increase the learning curve.
- Potential battery drain due to multiple displays may offset the benefits of a minimalist user experience.
3. Allai Wearable-1
Health tracking enters a new era with the Allai Wearable-1, a device that blurs the lines between a smartwatch and a smart ring. Designed for those who want more than just passive data, this wearable learns and evolves with you. The secret lies in its NeuralTrack AI, which actively studies your routines, physiological patterns, and even the subtlest changes in your health profile. Unlike conventional trackers, the Wearable-1 uses clinical-grade, FDA-cleared algorithms, providing insights that approach medical accuracy.
Its modularity is a game-changer: by day, it’s a full-featured smartwatch complete with notifications, activity tracking, and health metrics. By night, it transforms into a discreet smart ring, ideal for sleep monitoring and continuous biometrics without the bulk of a wristwatch.
What we like
- Modular design lets users switch between a smartwatch and a smart ring, ensuring comfort and uninterrupted health tracking.
- Advanced AI delivers tailored health insights, moving beyond generic step counts to meaningful, actionable feedback.
What we dislike
- The complexity of adaptive algorithms may overwhelm users who prefer simple, straightforward devices.
- Premium health features and modular components could lead to a higher price point than standard fitness trackers.
4. Atari 2600 My Play Smartwatch
For those who grew up with the pixelated charm of Atari games, the Atari 2600 My Play Smartwatch is a delightful throwback. This device isn’t content with merely mimicking retro aesthetics; it brings genuine gaming nostalgia to your wrist, complete with four iconic titles: Centipede, Missile Command, Pong, and Super Breakout.
Wrapped in a design reminiscent of classic Atari consoles, it’s a wearable that sparks conversation and fond memories in equal measure. But the My Play Smartwatch isn’t just about reliving the past. It comes packed with modern essentials: heart rate monitoring, step and calorie tracking, and the full suite of notification features you’d expect from a 2025 smartwatch.
What we like
- Built-in classic Atari games provide unique entertainment and a playful break from daily routines.
- Distinctive retro design appeals to enthusiasts and stands out in the sea of lookalike wearables.
What we dislike
- Gaming features may consume additional battery, reducing longevity compared to simpler models.
- Retro-inspired interface could feel dated for users accustomed to sleek, modern smartwatch layouts.
5. Pebble Smartwatch
Few tech comebacks have generated as much buzz as the return of the Pebble smartwatch. Once a trailblazer for wearables, Pebble’s original charm lay in its ultra-long battery life and e-paper display—qualities that still resonate with users tired of daily charging. Thanks to Google’s decision to open-source the Pebble OS, the classic device has been reborn, keeping its signature simplicity and customizable software while gaining community-driven improvements.
Pebble’s design remains delightfully straightforward. Its screen is crisp in all lighting conditions, and the device’s lightweight build makes it comfortable for all-day wear. The open-source ecosystem encourages enthusiasts to develop new apps and watch faces, breathing fresh life into a beloved classic.
What we like
- Open-source OS fosters a vibrant community, enabling endless customization and long-term support.
- E-paper display and efficient hardware deliver battery life measured in days, not hours.
What we dislike
- Outdated hardware and a limited color display may not satisfy users wanting cutting-edge visuals.
- Fewer built-in health sensors compared to modern flagship smartwatches.
6. Garmin Instinct 3
The Garmin Instinct 3 is purpose-built for explorers, athletes, and anyone who pushes boundaries—indoors or out. Taking cues from its rugged predecessors, this 2025 model introduces a durable metal bezel, a bright AMOLED display, and thoughtful touches like an integrated LED flashlight for night hikes or emergencies. With options for both AMOLED and solar-powered models, and sizes catering to different wrists, Garmin offers unmatched versatility.
Where Instinct 3 truly shines is in its battery life. Despite the power-hungry display, the AMOLED version boasts up to 24 days on a single charge—a feat rarely seen in the smartwatch world. Advanced fitness tracking and navigation features stay true to Garmin’s reputation, while new enhancements like improved heart rate monitoring and GPS precision make it indispensable for serious adventurers.
What we like
- Exceptional battery performance, even with a vibrant AMOLED display, ensures reliability in all conditions.
- Rugged build and integrated features (like the LED flashlight) cater to outdoor enthusiasts and safety-conscious users.
What we dislike
- Bulky design and robust build may not suit those seeking a slim, sleek accessory for formal wear.
- Some advanced features require a learning curve, especially for users new to Garmin’s ecosystem.
7. A_001 Powerwatch
In a world of rounded edges and uniform screens, the A_001 PowerWatch stands out with unapologetic boldness. Channeling the aesthetics of Japanese metal heroes and the angular lines of the Tesla Cybertruck, this smartwatch is a wearable statement. The color palette—reds, silvers, and blues—evokes the spirit of classic tokusatsu series, while hefty knobs for input bring a satisfying, tactile operation rarely seen in wearables.
Its large, geometric screen offers clear readability, making it as practical as it is eye-catching. The PowerWatch is more than just a fashion piece; its menu controls and app functions are designed for those who value both form and function. For tech enthusiasts, sci-fi fans, or anyone wanting to break away from the crowd, the A_001 PowerWatch delivers a unique fusion of nostalgia and futuristic flair.
What we like
- Striking, mecha-inspired design is a head-turner and perfect for fans of anime and sci-fi.
- Intuitive physical controls offer an alternative to touchscreen-only interaction, enhancing accessibility.
What we dislike
- Bulky frame and bold design may be too unconventional for users seeking subtlety.
- Emphasis on aesthetics might limit compatibility with traditional watch accessories and bands.
8. Alien Smartwatch
Breaking free from the constraints of traditional watch shapes, the ALIEN smartwatch concept is as much a piece of wearable art as it is a tech gadget. Its asymmetrical, amorphous form hugs the wrist with an ergonomic curvature, prioritizing comfort and individuality. The domed display emits a mysterious green glow, and its dark brushed metal surface is reminiscent of props from classic sci-fi movies. Buttons seem to grow organically from the body, enhancing the otherworldly vibe.
Despite its alien moniker, the watch’s design is deeply human-centric, intended to conform to natural wrist shapes rather than force the wrist to adapt to the device. Multiple buttons positioned at the corners offer versatile control schemes, inviting users to interact in new ways. For those bored by the monotony of round and square smartwatches, ALIEN is a bold leap into uncharted territory, inviting curiosity and conversation wherever it’s worn.
What we like
- Ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit, adapting naturally to the wearer’s wrist.
- Distinctive aesthetics make it a perfect accessory for trendsetters and fans of unconventional design.
What we dislike
- Asymmetrical shape and unique button layout may require an adjustment period for new users.
- Niche styling could limit mainstream appeal and compatibility with standard bands or chargers.
9. MSI Gaming Watch
Say hello to the MSI Gaming Watch, a bold concept that reimagines what a smartwatch can be by blending the worlds of high-performance gaming PCs and wearable tech. This unique watch is more than just a timepiece—it’s a miniature homage to the intricate internals of advanced gaming rigs, complete with scaled-down fans, graphic cards, and even a tiny motherboard, all housed within a compact, stylish frame.
The fans cleverly double as the watch’s hands, subtly telling the time while capturing the mechanical essence of PC gaming. Designed in MSI’s signature dragon red theme, the watch stands out as a statement accessory for tech enthusiasts and gamers alike. It’s not just about aesthetics either; the MSI Gaming Watch aims to offer practical smartwatch features alongside its eye-catching design.
What we like
- Striking, gamer-inspired design makes it a standout accessory for tech lovers.
- Combines watch functionality with gaming-inspired aesthetics for a unique experience.
What we dislike
- Niche appeal may not suit users looking for a more traditional or subtle watch.
- A complex internal design could make durability and maintenance challenging.
10. Ksana
Ksana is a distinctive smartwatch featuring an innovative E Ink display that stands out from standard LCD or OLED screens. Its unique design allows the display to shrink down into a smaller circle, focusing attention on the center of the watch. This approach not only conserves battery life but also ensures high visibility in various lighting conditions.
By opting for E Ink technology, Ksana delivers essential information with clarity and without the distractions of animated graphics or bright colors. This minimalist approach makes it ideal for users who value simplicity and efficiency over flashy features.
What we like
- E Ink display ensures excellent battery life and easy readability in all lighting.
- A minimalist interface reduces distractions and focuses on essential information.
What we dislike
- Lack of color and animations may not appeal to users seeking visual excitement.
- A limited display area could restrict the amount of information shown at once.