SIM card support
Type
of SIM card for which the gadget is designed. SIM cards are required for mobile communication modules, which are mainly found in watch phones and children's beacons (see "Type"). And their types can be:
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Micro-SIM. Reduced in size and improved, in comparison with the obsolete mini-SIM, a variety of SIM-cards: the dimensions were reduced to 15x12 mm, while the amount of built-in memory and the overall functionality of the chip were slightly expanded.
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Nano-SIM. The newest and smallest variety of replaceable SIM-cards: it has dimensions of only 12x9 mm.
It is worth noting that nowadays, most mobile operators sell SIM cards that are compatible with all three types of slots at once: the chip itself has a nano-SIM format, and such a card can be installed in a micro-SIM or mini-SIM slot using an adapter frame. So paying attention to the type of SIM card makes sense, first of all, if you already have a "sim card" of a strictly defined format and you do not want to change it.
A separate variety is represented by
e-SIM(Embedded SIM) — non-removable modules that need to be programmed for a particular mobile operator. On the one hand, this creates some inconvenience: to change the number, changing the SIM card can be easier than reconfiguring the e-SIM. On the other hand, e-SIMs are more compact and
...better suited for wearable gadgets, and when you change your number, you do not need to spend money on buying a new card. The compatibility of such a module with the network of a particular operator should be specified separately.Size
The size of the display installed in the gadget; for round screens, respectively, the diameter is indicated.
A larger screen, on the one hand, is more convenient to use, on the other hand, it significantly affects the dimensions of the entire device, which is especially critical for wearable gadgets. Therefore, manufacturers choose the display size in accordance with the purpose and functionality of each specific model — so that there is enough space on the screen and the device itself is not too bulky.
It is also worth mentioning that screens with a similar size may have different aspect ratios. For example, traditional smartwatches are usually equipped with square or round panels, while in fitness trackers, screens are often made elongated in height.
Screen resolution
Screen size in dots (pixels) horizontally and vertically. In general, this is one of the indicators that determine the image quality: the higher the resolution, the clearer and smoother the picture on the screen (with the same size), the less noticeable are the individual dots. On the other hand, an increase in the number of pixels affects the cost of displays, their power consumption and requirements for a hardware platform (more powerful hardware is required, which itself will cost more). In addition, the specifics of using smartwatches is such that there is simply no need to install high-resolution screens in them. Therefore, modern wrist accessories use displays with a relatively low resolution: for example, 320x320 with a size of about 1.6" is considered quite sufficient even for premium watches.
PPI
The density of dots on the screen of the gadget, namely, the number of pixels that are on each inch of the panel vertically or horizontally.
The higher the PPI, the higher the detail of the screen, the clearer and smoother the image is. On the other hand, this indicator affects the price accordingly. Therefore, the higher the density of points, the more advanced, usually, this gadget is in terms of general capabilities. However, when choosing a screen, manufacturers take into account the general purpose and functionality of the device; so that even a small number of PPIs usually does not interfere with comfortable use.
CPU frequency
The clock speed of the processor (CPU) installed in the gadget.
Theoretically, a high clock speed has a positive effect on speed and performance; however, in fact, this parameter has a purely reference and promotional value. This is due to the fact that the real capabilities of the CPU depend on a number of other factors, and the overall performance of the system also depends on the properties of the rest of the hardware. In addition, manufacturers select processors in such a way that their performance is guaranteed to be sufficient, taking into account the planned specialization and functionality of the gadget. Therefore, when choosing this parameter, you can not pay much attention.
Device charging
The method of charging the battery provided in the gadget.
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MicroUSB. Charging via standard microUSB port. The main advantage of this option is the ability to charge from any microUSB cable or charger with such a connector, not necessarily branded. On the other hand, the connector itself is quite large by the standards of wrist devices and can significantly affect the increase in the dimensions of the gadget.
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USB type C. A compact version of the USB interface with a reversible design that allows the plug to be inserted in either direction. The USB type C specification provides for a number of advanced power options - in particular, various fast charging technologies have been developed for this connector.
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Branded connector. Charging via a cable that connects to the watch using the original proprietary interface. The other end of the cable, as a rule, has a standard interface - most often USB, which allows you to use any computer port or network adapter with such a connector for charging. Branded connectors can be smaller than microUSB, and fit better into the layout of the clock. However, for charging, as a rule, you have to use only original accessories, including branded cradles-stands, which are intended mainly for permanent stay in one place.
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Wireless. The main advantage of wireless c
...harging technology is the absence of any connectors - which is important, given the miniature size of wrist gadgets. At the same time, this method takes more time and significantly affects the cost of the device. Note that wireless charging is not contactless: the corresponding chargers can take the form of a stand or platform on which you need to put the watch, or a magnet attached to the back cover of the gadget, etc.
- Magnetic. Charging via a cable with convex metal contacts that are magnetized to the connector on the back cover of the wearable gadget. The magnetic contact group has no gaps, which improves the dust and moisture protection qualities of the smartwatch, and the charging plug itself is attracted to the magnetic connector, eliminating the need to look for the correct position for connecting the cable.
- USB A connector. The presence of a built-in connector allows you to connect the gadget directly to the charger, laptop, power bank without using additional cables.Battery capacity
The capacity of the battery that is installed in the gadget.
Theoretically, the higher the capacity, the longer the battery can work on a single charge. However, in fact, the battery life of the gadget also depends on its power consumption, and it is determined by the specs of the display and the hardware. Therefore, only models of the same type with very similar specs can be compared in terms of battery capacity; and for an accurate assessment of battery life, it is better to focus on the directly claimed operating time in one mode or another (see below).
It is also worth mentioning that high-capacity batteries inevitably turn out to be quite heavy and bulky. So the capacity of batteries installed in wearable gadgets is also greatly limited by size and weight.
Operating time (active mode)
The time that the gadget is able to work on one charge of the battery in the active mode of use.
For watch-phones (see “Type”), this usually means a talk mode, for other gadgets, an intensive work mode when numerous features and sensors are used and there is a constant exchange of data with a smartphone/tablet. However, the specific understanding of the "active mode" for different manufacturers may vary: some indicate the time at maximum performance (that is, in fact, guaranteed battery life), others — in some kind of "average mode". However, anyway, this is a fairly clear parameter that describes the battery life of a particular model quite well (and is much closer to real indicators than the time in normal mode mentioned above).
Note that for models with a GPS sensor (see "Navigation"), the specifications may additionally specify the time of active operation using such a sensor. See "Operating time (GPS)" for details.
Strap Options
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Skin. Leather straps are typical for a business style, they look rich and respectable, however, they are quite expensive. On the practical side, this material is strong, reliable and resistant to moisture; at the same time, it is quite demanding to care for, and if the appropriate rules are not followed, cracks may appear on the strap.
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Rubber/silicone. Quite a popular material used not only for fitness trackers, but also for traditional watches. Rubber straps do not look as rich as leather ones, but they are also quite decent, while they are strong enough, durable, resistant to moisture and pleasantly felt on the hand. Silicone is similar in properties, which in appearance is practically indistinguishable from rubber. But the silicone is softer, does not pinch the hand and is more pleasant to the touch.
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Metal. Metal straps (bracelets) are mainly made of stainless steel, but there are other options. Anyway, bracelets are highly durable and can be both light and massive, depending on the composition of the metal. It is also worth mentioning the high thermal conductivity of this material. Such a bracelet pleasantly cools the hand in the warm season, but causes the opposite effect in the cold.
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Milanese bracelet. Metal bracelets made of links of very fine weaving (about 1 mm in size, or even less). The m
...aterial of such a bracelet may be different; most often it is steel, but more expensive metals are also found. Anyway, such a bracelet has an original appearance, and also provides good air access, allowing the skin to breathe. Among the shortcomings of Milanese bracelet, it can be noted that the links can “bite” the hair on the arm, creating discomfort.
— Textile. Usually, strong dense fabric (like nylon-based CORDURA) is used for straps, resistant to moisture, ultraviolet and other adverse factors. For some users, this material is more pleasant than other options; however, for a number of technical reasons, fabric straps were not widely used.
Many models of wearable gadgets are available with several strap options to choose from.