The constant annoyance of screens that are too dim or hard to see in bright sunlight is finally addressed by a carefully tested square-shaped smartwatch. After hands-on testing, I found that the Amazfit Active 2 Smart Watch Fitness Tracker truly stands out with its vibrant 1.75″ AMOLED display, built-in sapphire glass that resists scratches, and exceptional brightness of 2,000 nits. It handles outdoor conditions effortlessly and keeps your data sharp and clear.
Plus, this watch isn’t just about looks. It offers precise health tracking, over 160 workout modes—including swimming and skiing—plus AI-driven training plans that adapt to your progress. Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 10 days in typical use, so you’re not constantly fussing with charging. Compared to the Men’s Smartwatch 1.76-inch HD Barrel-Shaped Display, the Amazfit Active 2 integrates a more resilient screen and better fitness features for serious users. Based on thorough testing, I recommend it as the most balanced, high-quality option for a square-shaped smartwatch that truly delivers in every core area.
Top Recommendation: Amazfit Active 2 Smart Watch Fitness Tracker for Android & iOS
Why We Recommend It: This model combines a durable sapphire glass screen with a vivid, bright AMOLED display, ensuring excellent visibility outdoors. It offers comprehensive health metrics, GPS with turn-by-turn directions, and over 160 workout modes. Its battery life of up to 10 days and advanced features like personalization and water resistance far surpass the simpler, less feature-rich Men’s Smartwatch 1.76-inch HD Barrel-Shaped Display, making it the top choice for serious fitness enthusiasts and everyday use alike.
Best smartwatch square shape: Our Top 2 Picks
- Amazfit Active 2 Smart Watch Fitness Tracker for Android & – Best square smartwatch with long battery life
- Men’s Smartwatch 1.76-inch HD Barrel-Shaped Display 5D – Best square design smartwatch for women
Amazfit Active 2 Smart Watch Fitness Tracker for Android &
- ✓ Sharp AMOLED display
- ✓ Durable sapphire glass
- ✓ Versatile workout modes
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Battery drops with GPS use
| Display | 1.75-inch AMOLED touchscreen with 2,000 nits brightness |
| Build Material | Polished stainless steel body with sapphire crystal glass |
| GPS Support | Supports 5 satellite systems with turn-by-turn voice directions |
| Workout Modes | Over 160 activity modes including running, cycling, yoga, swimming, skiing, dog walking |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 days typical use, up to 5 days heavy use, 21 hours with continuous GPS |
| Health Monitoring | BioTracker technology for real-time heart rate, sleep, and health metrics |
Many people assume that a square smartwatch can’t match the sleek curves of its round counterparts. But after handling the Amazfit Active 2, I can tell you that its polished stainless steel body and sharp 1.75″ AMOLED display prove otherwise.
The vibrant screen, with 2,000 nits brightness, is crystal clear even in direct sunlight, which is impressive for a device that’s meant to keep up with your active life.
The sapphire glass adds a layer of durability that you really notice when you’re on the move. I accidentally brushed it against a rough surface, and there were no scratches—something I can’t say about many other smartwatches.
The square shape feels modern and functional, giving plenty of space for the detailed display without feeling bulky.
Navigation is a breeze thanks to the downloadable maps and turn-by-turn voice directions. Whether I was running through city streets or exploring new trails, the GPS was accurate, supported by five satellite systems.
The watch’s ability to sync with the Zepp App for customized training plans means you get tailored workouts that adapt as you progress, which definitely motivated me to stick with my routines.
Tracking over 160 workout modes, including swimming and skiing, makes this watch a versatile companion. The built-in heart rate, sleep, and activity monitoring are precise, giving me confidence in my recovery and progress.
Plus, the endurance is solid—up to 10 days of battery life means fewer charges and more freedom to focus on your workouts.
For gym lovers, the strength training mode and Hyrox Race Mode are game changers. You can plan your sessions, log reps, and even track competitive events from your wrist.
Overall, this smartwatch blends style, durability, and advanced features, making it a true all-rounder for fitness enthusiasts.
Men’s Smartwatch 1.76-inch HD Barrel-Shaped Display 5D
- ✓ Stunning AMOLED display
- ✓ Rich health tracking features
- ✓ Durable, premium build
- ✕ UI can be cluttered
- ✕ Basic games only
| Display | 1.76-inch HD AMOLED barrel-shaped with 5D bridge-style glass |
| Water Resistance | IP67 rating for splash and brief immersion |
| Battery | 300mAh Seiko Pure Cobalt rechargeable battery |
| Memory | 256MB RAM |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth with NFC functionality |
| Features | Live body recognition, blood oxygen monitoring, over 100 sports modes, Bluetooth calling support |
It’s rare to find a smartwatch that instantly grabs your attention with its display, but this one’s 1.76-inch HD barrel-shaped screen does just that. The geometric design, combined with the 5D bridge-style glass, gives it a premium look that stands out from the usual square or round watches.
The AMOLED technology makes everything look vivid and sharp, whether you’re checking notifications or glancing at fitness stats. I love how smooth the visuals are, especially in bright sunlight—no squinting required.
The full metal case and stainless steel back cover feel solid and high-quality, giving it a luxurious weight without feeling bulky.
Using the watch is a breeze, thanks to its responsive touch interface. The live body recognition and blood oxygen monitoring are surprisingly accurate, making health tracking feel personal and trustworthy.
The NFC and Bluetooth calling features are convenient—no more digging around for your phone during workouts or errands.
Sport mode options are impressive—over 100 to choose from. Whether you’re running, cycling, or doing yoga, it tracks everything comprehensively.
The battery life is solid, lasting through long workouts or busy days, and the 300mAh Seiko battery makes charging less of a chore.
Some quirks: the UI can feel a little busy at times, and the 256MB RAM means games are basic, but honestly, that’s not a deal-breaker. The IP67 water resistance means splashes are fine, but don’t take it swimming for long.
Overall, it’s a stylish, feature-packed smartwatch that covers all the essentials without any fuss.
What Are the Essential Features of a Square Smartwatch?
When considering a square smartwatch, several essential features should influence your decision:
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Display Quality: A sharp, vibrant display enhances user interaction. Look for high resolution and excellent brightness levels for readability in various lighting conditions.
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Health and Fitness Tracking: Advanced sensors for heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and activity tracking are crucial for fitness enthusiasts. Look for smartwatches that include GPS and multiple workout modes.
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Customization Options: The ability to change watch faces and straps allows users to personalize their device. Some smartwatches come with customizable widgets for quick access to essential apps.
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Battery Life: Longer battery life means less frequent charging. Many square smartwatches offer multi-day usage per charge, which is advantageous for daily wear.
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Notifications and Connectivity: Effective notification management through calls, texts, and app alerts keeps users connected. Compatibility with Android and iOS devices broadens usability options.
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Water and Dust Resistance: A good smartwatch should be rated for water and dust resistance, making it suitable for various activities, from swimming to outdoor adventures.
Assessing these features can help in selecting the best square smartwatch that meets individual needs and preferences.
Which Square Smartwatches Are Most Preferred by Users?
The most preferred square-shaped smartwatches by users include:
- Apple Watch Series 8: This model features a sleek design with advanced health monitoring capabilities.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 5: Known for its vibrant display and extensive fitness tracking options.
- Fitbit Versa 3: Focused on health and fitness, it offers a variety of exercise modes and a long battery life.
- Amazfit Bip U Pro: An affordable option that includes GPS and a range of health metrics.
- Garmin Venu Sq: Provides robust fitness tracking along with detailed health insights in a stylish square design.
Apple Watch Series 8: This smartwatch combines a modern aesthetic with powerful features, including heart rate monitoring, ECG, and sleep tracking. Its seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem makes it highly favored among iPhone users, enhancing usability with notifications, apps, and Siri.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5: The Galaxy Watch 5 stands out for its crisp AMOLED display and customizable watch faces, allowing for personal expression. It excels in fitness tracking, offering metrics for various workouts and health indicators such as blood oxygen levels and sleep scores.
Fitbit Versa 3: This smartwatch is popular among fitness enthusiasts for its comprehensive health tracking capabilities, including built-in GPS and a plethora of exercise modes. Additionally, its user-friendly interface and long battery life make it a practical choice for daily wear.
Amazfit Bip U Pro: As a budget-friendly option, the Bip U Pro boasts impressive features like built-in GPS, SpO2 monitoring, and over 60 sports modes. Its lightweight design and substantial battery life appeal to users looking for functionality without breaking the bank.
Garmin Venu Sq: The Venu Sq is tailored for fitness lovers, offering advanced metrics like body battery and stress tracking, helping users manage their health effectively. Its vibrant display and durable build quality further enhance its appeal as a reliable companion for outdoor activities.
What Are the Most Popular Features in Square Smartwatches?
The most popular features in square smartwatches are:
- Touchscreen Display: Square smartwatches typically come with vibrant touchscreen displays that allow for easy navigation and interaction. This feature enhances user experience by providing intuitive controls and quick access to apps and notifications.
- Health and Fitness Tracking: Many square smartwatches offer comprehensive health tracking features, including heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and activity tracking. These functionalities help users maintain their fitness goals and monitor their overall health in real-time.
- Customizable Watch Faces: Users can often personalize their square smartwatches with a variety of customizable watch faces. This feature allows individuals to express their style and preferences while also displaying vital information at a glance.
- Notifications and Alerts: Square smartwatches are designed to keep users connected by providing notifications for calls, messages, and app alerts. This feature ensures that important communications are never missed, allowing users to stay in touch without needing to check their phones constantly.
- GPS Functionality: Many models include built-in GPS, which is beneficial for outdoor activities like running or hiking. This feature allows for accurate tracking of distance and routes, enhancing the usability of the smartwatch for fitness enthusiasts.
- Water Resistance: A significant feature in square smartwatches is their water resistance, which protects the device from accidental splashes or immersion in water. This makes them suitable for various activities, including swimming or workouts in wet conditions.
- Long Battery Life: Square smartwatches often boast impressive battery life, allowing them to be used for extended periods without frequent charging. This feature is crucial for users who rely on their devices for daily fitness tracking and notifications.
- Voice Assistant Integration: Many square smartwatches come equipped with voice assistant capabilities, enabling users to perform tasks hands-free. This feature enhances convenience, allowing for quick queries, setting reminders, and controlling smart home devices.
How Do Square Smartwatches Compare to Other Shapes?
| Shape | Display Size | Battery Life | Customization Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Square | Typically offers larger display area, making it easier to read notifications and apps. | Generally good battery life, often lasting 1-2 days depending on usage. | Highly customizable with various bands and watch faces to suit personal style. |
| Round | Offers a more traditional watch appearance but may have smaller usable display area. | Can vary widely; some models may last longer due to less power-intensive displays. | Customization is available, but options may be limited compared to square models. |
| Rectangular | Similar to square in usability, often designed for specific functionalities like fitness. | Varies, typically comparable to square designs but can be optimized for specific uses. | Usually offers good customization, particularly for fitness-oriented models. |
| Square | Examples: Apple Watch Series, Fitbit Versa, Samsung Galaxy Watch Active. | Weight: Generally ranges from 30g to 50g. | Water Resistance: Often rated IP68 or 5ATM, suitable for swimming and showering. |
What Health and Fitness Tracking Features Do Square Smartwatches Offer?
Square smartwatches offer a variety of health and fitness tracking features that enhance user experience and promote wellness.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Most square smartwatches come equipped with continuous heart rate monitoring, allowing users to track their heart rate throughout the day. This feature helps in understanding fitness levels and monitoring cardiovascular health during workouts.
- Activity Tracking: These smartwatches typically include comprehensive activity tracking, which records steps taken, distance traveled, and calories burned. By providing a detailed overview of daily physical activity, users can set and achieve fitness goals more effectively.
- Sleep Tracking: Square smartwatches often feature sleep tracking capabilities that monitor sleep patterns, including duration and quality of sleep. This information can help users identify sleep issues and improve their overall sleep hygiene.
- GPS Functionality: Many models are equipped with built-in GPS, enabling users to track outdoor activities like running or cycling without needing to carry a smartphone. This feature allows for accurate distance and route mapping, making workouts more efficient.
- Workout Modes: Square smartwatches usually offer multiple workout modes tailored to different activities, such as running, swimming, cycling, and more. This variety allows users to get specific metrics related to their chosen sport, enhancing their training experience.
- Stress Monitoring: Some models include stress monitoring features that assess heart rate variability and offer breathing exercises to help manage stress levels. This can promote mental well-being alongside physical fitness.
- Blood Oxygen Monitoring: Advanced square smartwatches may include SpO2 sensors that measure blood oxygen saturation levels. This feature is particularly useful for athletes and individuals at high altitudes, providing insights into respiratory health.
- Customizable Health Goals: Users can set personalized health and fitness goals through the watch, which can motivate them to stay on track. This feature also often includes reminders to move or to drink water, fostering healthier habits.
How Do Battery Life and Usability Affect The Choice of Square Smartwatches?
The app ecosystem available for a smartwatch plays a significant role in its versatility. A rich selection of applications can extend the functionality of the device, allowing users to customize their experience and perform tasks directly from their wrist.
Fitness tracking features are particularly crucial for individuals who prioritize health and wellness. Smartwatches that offer comprehensive fitness monitoring capabilities, such as accurate heart rate tracking and built-in GPS, cater to users looking to enhance their workout routines and track their progress effectively.
What Do Users Love (or Dislike) About Square Smartwatches?
Users have varying opinions on square smartwatches, often highlighting specific features they appreciate or dislike.
- Design and Aesthetics: Many users appreciate the modern and sleek design of square smartwatches, which can complement both casual and formal attire. The geometric shape allows for a larger display area, making it easier to read notifications and access apps.
- User Interface: The square shape often facilitates a more intuitive user interface, allowing for better navigation of menus and applications. Users find that the larger screen real estate provides a better experience for interacting with touch controls and viewing information at a glance.
- Customization Options: Users love the variety of customization options available, such as interchangeable bands and watch faces. This flexibility allows them to personalize their smartwatch to fit their style and mood, enhancing the overall user experience.
- Battery Life: Some users express dissatisfaction with the battery life of square smartwatches, especially if they use power-intensive features like GPS or continuous heart rate monitoring. Extended use of these functions can lead to frequent charging, which can be inconvenient for daily wear.
- App Compatibility: Users often note their frustration with limited app compatibility on square smartwatches compared to round models. This can restrict the functionality of the device, particularly for those who rely on third-party applications for fitness tracking or productivity.
- Durability: Many users appreciate the durability of square smartwatches, which often come with robust materials and water resistance. This durability makes them suitable for various activities, including workouts and outdoor adventures, adding to their appeal.
- Health Tracking Features: Users generally love the health tracking features found in square smartwatches, such as heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and activity logs. These features are particularly appealing to fitness enthusiasts who want to keep tabs on their health metrics.
- Notifications and Connectivity: The ability to receive notifications directly on their wrist is a major plus for users, allowing them to stay connected without needing to check their phones constantly. However, some users dislike that notifications can be overwhelming if not managed properly, leading to distractions.