What would you do if someone told you that you could call, text, and browse without your phone? That’s the magic you can get with some of these awesome smartwatch models. Even though these gadgets cannot phase out smartphones, they act as complete phones. Today, with a SIM card smartwatch, you can do almost everything doable with a smartphone.
Actually, some of these smartwatches are more superior to certain phones. With SIM cards, smartwatches connect to the respective network carrier. With that, you don’t need to move around with your phone. Besides, smartwatches do more than that. They have GPS, Fitness apps among other features. If you are looking for a smartwatch with sim card , you are in the right place. We’ve got all that you need to get a device worth your money.
Why Does Smartwatch Need A SIM Card
Most smartwatches use Bluetooth to connect to watches around the area of coverage. In most cases, the Bluetooth devices can connect up to 10 meters radius. They pull data from the connected device using the phone’s cellular connection. Even though most smartwatches work only when paired, others are stand-alone.
Devices like phones and stand-alone smartwatches use SIM cards to connect to the network carrier. There is unique identification data in the SIM microchip. That information creates a connection between the device and carrier. Apart from the connectivity, the chip also helps prevent the SIM card from connecting to other networks.
There are three types of SIM cards you are likely to come across. These include standard SIM, Micro-SIM, and nano-SIM. The usage of these three depends on the type of headset you buy. Nowadays, nano-SIM is common among communication gadgets. It is even higher in smartwatches.
The decision to have a smartwatch with a SIM card depends on your preference. There is a downside to having a smartwatch with a SIM card. The SIM card increases other charges compared to ordinary smartwatches that use the phone’s cellular network. The advantage of the smartwatch is that you do not need to carry a phone everywhere.
Does A Smartwatch Work Without A SIM Card
Yes. A smartwatch can work even without a sim card. Ordinary smartwatches use Bluetooth to connect to the paired phones. However, if you want to use a smartwatch for tracking, you need a SIM card. Using GPS in tracking needs the use of a SIM card. SIM cards help the smartwatch to access GSM, LTE, or other networks.
The plans may also offer minutes and text to help communicate and keep in touch with your kids. Smartwatches have gained popularity among kids of late.
Best SIM Card Supported Smartwatches in 2024
We have curated a list of the best sim card supported smartwatches below. So, if you are looking for a sim card smartwatch, these products can shorten your search period. Instead of plunging yourself into a flooded market, you can narrow your search here. This list constitutes excellent models for both kids and adults.
1. TopePop Bluetooth Smartwatch – SIM Card Supported
TopePop Bluetooth smartwatch is our pick for the best SIM supported smartwatch. With a SIM card, you can call, message, and even access the internet. It is a feature-rich model with an incredible user interface. Some of its notable features include; hands-free calls, a sports fitness tracker,s and synchronization.
The hands-free call allows you to make calls without even lifting your phone freely. That’s a top-notch feature that gives you the freedom to make calls in the tightest situations. And its Bluetooth is strong enough to hear your recipients clearly.
If you are looking for an exciting gift for your friend or a relative, this smartwatch is an excellent one. However, they must be willing to bear with the size of this watch. For those who fancy large watches, this is their perfect match. Its high compatibility level also makes it a unique model. Examples of compatible phones include; Samsung Galaxy, HTC, Huawei, and OPPO among others. Additionally, it is compatible with some iPhone functionalities.
- It has an easy-to-use user interface
- Compatible with a wide variety of Android phones
- It has several smartwatch features
- It supports SIM card
- You can sync all your phone functionalities like calls, SMS and browsing
- It’s too big in size
- Not compatible with all iPhones’ functionalities
2. Apple Watch Series 4 – SIM Card Supported Smartwatch
This is the 4th model of Apple’s Smartwatch series. It carries incredible improvements to the previous models. For instance, there are improvements in its battery life, UI, and fitness tracking. The provision of two size options is a plus. It allows you to decide on your best fit. The larger model measures 44mm. It also boasts of a simple responsive touchscreen with an intuitive user interface.
If you have used the previous models in this series, you’ll notice the incredible improvement in the fitness tracking feature. The machine learning technology used in the development of this feature is outstanding. It incorporates an electronic heart sensor that keeps a track of your heartbeat and notifies you whenever you overdo it. Also, using heuristic tools, it’ll suggest what you can do to achieve your fitness goals. The automatic workout detection eliminates the need for manually setting up your watch.
Can you imagine calling via a small gadget on your hand? Apple watches series 4 does exactly that. You can use it to call receive, and send messages. On top of that, those with iPhone 6 and above can use this watch like a walkie talkie. To achieve this, the users must be on the same service provider.
- It has a powerful processor
- Larger screen display that uses OLED technology
- Features an automatic workout detection tool
- Comes in two sizes thus providing an alternative
- It’s a fully equipped standalone smartwatch
- It’s very expensive
- Some accessories are generic
3. Samsung Gear S3 Frontier 4G LTE – SIM Card Supported Smartwatch
Samsung Gear S3 Frontier is the newest model in this series. Like its predecessors, it uses eSIM. This technology gives you the freedom to choose your carrier without necessarily being tied to the SIM card provider. That means you can still use your phone number when still on a different carrier. One thing you should be keen on is to ensure that you use a similar carrier as your phone. This ensures guaranteed compatibility.
The voice command feature allows you to do everything without shifting your hands. For example, if you are driving, you can make a call without even lifting your hands. Also, the watch is water-resistant. That eliminates the worries about your watch getting wet whenever swimming or in case of a splash.
In general, Samsung gear watches are the best when paired with Samsung phones. So, if you own a Samsung phone, you may want to look at this watch. You can consider it a better alternative to expensively priced Apple watches. Though, not to mean that it is cheap.
- It has a voice command feature
- It is water-resistant
- Very sturdy and durable
- Features a big-screen display with corning gorilla glass
- Supports both Android and iOS
- The smartwatch is locked
- Its battery is horrible
4. LEM X Smart Watch Android 7.1 LTE 4G
Another superior SIM card supported smartwatch. LEM X I an Android run watch that features several modern-day technology tools. The inbuilt translator can help you to interact with people from different walks of life. All you need is to speak to it, and it gives you a translated version in another language. So, if you are the adventurous type, this smartwatch can go a long way in helping you enlarge your social circles.
Sportspersons and fitness enthusiasts can also benefit greatly from this watch. The heart rate sensor monitors the vitals reliably to advise you on your fitness. To further enhance your training experience, it has a Bluetooth connection. So, you can listen to music when exercising.
LEM X is the real extension of a smartphone. It has a nano-SIM card slot and 4G capability. Therefore, you can access high-speed internet as well as hands-free phone calls. Since it has Android version 7.1, it supports a variety of major applications. You can comfortably install your favorite apps and operate them without problems.
Additionally, this smartwatch prides itself on an 8MP camera. Together with an AMOLED HD screen, operating this gadget is a breeze. You can easily record and capture your memorable moments without struggling.
- It has an inbuilt translator
- Android smartwatch powered by Android version 7.1
- It has a powerful camera
- It boasts of an AMOLED HD screen
- The user interface is very friendly
- A bit heavyweight
- It has a low-capacity battery
5. Andmei Smartwatch
Andmei smartwatch is a SIM card compatible smartwatch. Once connected to your phone can make calls, send messages, or SNS. It has various advanced features including a pedometer. This watch is best for monitoring kids. The pedometer helps to track the distance covered when connected to an Android phone. You can also connect it with iOS phones, but some functionality may be sluggish. Otherwise, the model is excellent when connected with Androids.
This watch can work as a standalone device. However, it must be fully charged and with a GSM 2G SIM card.
- It has a strong screen protector
- It has a very responsive and high-resolution screen
- It’s easy to use
- Has a remote camera capability
- It is not waterproof
6. Kids Phone Smartwatch with SIM Card Supported
Want to keep track of your kid’s whereabouts? This is a good watch for that purpose. It has a GPS and LBS for real-time and location feed. The watch is compatible with both iOS and Android phones. You can also receive notifications for calls and texts.
The good thing with this smartwatch is that it comes with a ready SpeedTalk SIM card. This is one of the major cellular network providers with flexible plans. It also doesn’t include contracts or credit checks. Therefore, it’s compatible with nearly all 4G LTE GSM smartwatches. This carrier provides 50 minutes, talk time, 100 MB, and 100 for 30 days. It also auto-generates the US numbers although it doesn’t support roaming.
- It comes with a SpeedTalk SIM card
- Its SIM card has a beautiful plan with incredible offers
- Has powerful tracking devices
- It is water-resistant
- It is compatible with both Android and iOS
- It doesn’t support roaming
- Some may have an inaccurate GPS tracker
7. Vowor 4G Smartwatch
This Smartwatch is best suited for kids’ use. If you want to secure your children by tracking their movement, this is another alternative. For example, it has geofencing, GPS tracker, and face talk features. All these are critical real-time applications that you can use to know your child’s location anytime. If you like keeping fit, this watch has got a pedometer. This is important in monitoring your fitness status and exercises.
Even when away from your children, you can use the video call available in this watch to reach your kid. The geofencing feature allows you to restrict the area coverage of your child. In case they move outside this area, you receive an alert for immediate action. It’s also very easy to keep a tab on your child using the LBS GPS tracker. You can also trace the footprint of their activities in the day.
- It is very sturdy and durable
- It has awesome tracking features for safety of kids like geofencing and tracking
- The one-year warranty is proof of quality
- Has a very intuitive user interface
- Best for both boys and girls
- It can make both voice and video calls with a SIM card
- The SIM activation process is a bit complicated
- Its accessories and bands are poor quality
Key Features to Look Before Buy Smartwatch with SIM Card
Smartwatches came as an extension of phones. They are easy to operate. All you need is to pair your smartwatch with your phone. They come with cameras, SIM card slots, and other advanced capabilities. The ability of smartwatches to have SIM cards gives you the main reason why you should be keen on the features to look out for. Below are some of the considerations you should make before you settle on a smartwatch.
Is it truly standalone?
Not all smartphones are 100% dependent on phones for operation. Some use sim cards just like phones. Before buying one, you should decide on what type you want. Most connect to the phone through Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and SIM cards. These watches get LTE, 3G, and 4G connections either through SIM or eSIM. The use of SIM cards is economical to the user in some ways. For example, they consume less battery power.
Battery Life
Communication via a wireless connection is not power economical. It drains the battery fast. The continuous charging of the battery due to drainage reduces the battery life. Although smartwatches being in the market for a long, battery life remains a challenge. The amount of power consumed in wireless communication is higher compared to when using a SIM card.
Although, thanks to technological advancement and competition between manufacturers. There is progress in the battery capacity increment. More and more batteries with longer battery life are coming up.
Additionally, the introduction of smartwatch sensors has caused further effects. Even though designed to increase the UI intuitiveness, these sensors consume a lot of energy. The battery consumption and how long it sustains power. Note that it is good to choose the standalone when buying your smartwatch. This is because getting a smartwatch that uses a SIM card means less power consumption.
User interface
Every gadget’s user interface should take into consideration its target market. Smartwatches are not like phones, computers, or tablets with large skeletons. This means that the technology building the smartwatches should use clever designs to suit all the components. The components used to make the watches are smart which makes them easy to navigate.
Ensure that the device you choose is easy to use. Preferably, the menu-driven interfaces are the best. Otherwise, a complicated and unattractive interface will just frustrate you. Nowadays, updates are running all along with new technologies. A good smartwatch should allow updates to run automatically.
Durability
The durability of a smartwatch is another factor you should pay close attention to. Some features like a screen guard should be included to increase the watch lifespan. To get a durable model, look at factors such as waterproof and resistance ratings. You can also read customer reviews. In most cases, smartwatches are used by kids who can be careless and expose the smartwatch to water. Therefore, you need to be very keen on such properties.
Storage
Smartwatches are not only used to text, call, or browse. Like phones, you can use them to listen to music, play games, etc. You need storage space to store these files. Some have cameras that you can use to capture memories, events, etc. This requires space to store too.
Brands like Samsung Galaxy Gear 2 have limited storage space of up to 4GB. There are others that have an option of extending the memory storage. Brands like the Nuevo smartwatch have a slot for micro-SD cards up to 32 GB. If you want to use the smartwatch for storage purposes, consider brands that allow storage extension.
Price
Before you buy a smartwatch, think of how much you would like to spend. If you have a set budget, you are able to explore many options within your capital range. Explore various brands and their related features to get the best deal out of your money.
Other factors should come into play as well. Compare the functionality of the phone and smartwatch. Some watches have great features even more than some phones. You may find that the phone you want to buy is very expensive. Therefore, let your primary feature be the guiding factor in your decision. Some smartwatches have great features as well as smartphones. You can opt for one if you can’t afford the smartphone. Although not all smartwatches are cheap and everyone can afford it.
Choosing Locked or Unlocked Devices
Smartwatches can be either locked or unlocked. A locked one can only use a specific carrier unless unlocked. In most cases, when you buy a smartwatch from a network carrier, it is likely going to be locked to the same carrier. This clearly indicates that you will have to purchase a plan with them. If you are not willing to pay for the carrier plan, then you should prepare to get smartwatch unlocked. This allows you to use a different network carrier. If you want to use several carriers, then buy an unlocked smartwatch. If it is locked, there are different ways to unlock it.
One, you can request an unlock code from the carrier. There are also third parties like Amazon where you can get unlock codes. However, manufacturers do not recommend using third party codes. Chances are that the code may fail to work. So, it is better to rely on the carrier from where you got the watch from. Therefore, always check the specifications before you buy the smartwatch. The user reviews also give a real perspective of the product.
Do You Really Need A Sim Card?
Sim card smartwatches are increasingly becoming common as the technology continues to grow. We have SIM card smartwatches and others that use Bluetooth to connect to phones. The regular smartwatches do not allow LTE wireless communication. One demerit of wireless communication is that it consumes a lot of power. Additionally, the batteries are very small which cannot sustain a charge for long. When the smartwatches were first introduced, they had a lot of faults. Thankfully things are improving as new technologies are coming up.
Even though the technology is growing, smartwatches may not replace smartphones. The smartwatch architecture wasn’t meant to compete rather complement the phones. Consider the moments when you are unable to carry phones, like when jogging or exercising. The primary idea of smartwatches was for fitness and exercise.
Smartwatches also provide communication and also GPS locations. It is only the smartwatches with SIM cards that are capable of accessing LTE and 4G networks. Without such networks, it will be impossible to access GPS. When your kids use sim card smartwatches, you will monitor their location in case they get lost. They can also call you in case of an emergency. This is only possible if the smartwatches have the call pans. Most SIM card carriers have data and text plans for your kids.
SIM Card Plans For Smartwatch
Although we have three types of SIM cards, smartwatches use micro-SIM cards and Nano-SIM cards. The SIM card is free of charge, but you will have to activate it at a certain cost by signing up for a plan. All leading United States mobile carriers have SIM-only plans. You can take advantage of pay as you go plans because it does not have contracts. The data plans of smartwatches are cheap unless you are not buying a premium smartwatch. Apart from its data services, smartwatches can offer both text and calls services. Below is an elaborate explanation of different mobile carriers. What they offer and their prices in terms of connectivity.
AT&T SIM Card
Although AT&T has withdrawn its child-centered GPS smartwatch, it has a variety of plans for data-only customers. The plans are offered depending on the data plan and your number of lines. AT&T Nano sim cards fit in all smartwatches. So, you are free to choose one of its data-only plans. Below is a tabulated data on AT&T data-only plan.
Data plan | Price per Month |
250 MB | $14.99 |
3 GB | $30.00 |
5 GB | $50.00 |
AT&T has also data plans for prepaid service. This data expires after 30 days. See the tabulated data below the prepaid data plan.
Data plan | Price per Month |
3 GB | $25.00 |
8 GB | $50.00 |
15 GB | $75.00 |
T-Mobile SIM Card
T-Mobile offers plans for the only people who have bought their smartwatches. The plan has unlimited talk, text, and data services. Their data plan for smartwatches goes up to 512 Kbps at the cost of $10. If your smartwatch supports calls, you can use T-Mobile digits to link your cell phone. This is advantageous if your children have smartphones. They can take advantage of this service. This plan also costs $10 per month.
Sprint SIM Card
Sprint has the best services compared to other carriers. What distinguishes Sprint from other carriers is their simple plans. Users who have subscribed with Sprint get unlimited texts, data, and talk plans at an extra $15 per month. If you want to pay less, you can subscribe to auto-pay, which costs $10 per month.
» MORE : Best Gps Tracker For Kids With Multiple Features
Final Thoughts
Are you stranded on which smartwatch to go for? Unfortunately, we can’t point to a specific model for you. However, if you have gone through this article, by now, you should have your mind made up. We have presented a plethora of models with different features for different people. So, only your assessment of the factors highlighted in the purchase guide will help you.
Smartwatch technology hasn’t yet gripped the market well. You may face a bit of a challenge trying to reviews. Some of the features haven’t been tested for a long time. Thus, you may not get an accurate picture of the real thing.