Apple has officially launched the iPhone 17, and with its powerful iOS 26 operating system and advanced features, it’s the perfect time to upgrade not just your phone but also your smartwatch. While the Apple Watch remains a popular choice, there are plenty of stylish and feature-rich alternatives that pair seamlessly with the iPhone 17.
In this article, we’ll explore the Best Smartwatches for iPhone 17 from Apple’s own ecosystem to premium third-party options.
1. Apple Watch Series 10 – The Best Overall Companion
- Seamless integration with iOS 26
- Larger edge-to-edge display
- Advanced health features (blood oxygen, heart monitoring, sleep tracking)
- Exclusive Apple-only apps and widgets
If you want the smoothest experience with your iPhone 17, nothing beats the Apple Watch Series 10.
2. Apple Watch Ultra 3 – Best for Adventure Lovers
- Rugged titanium body, water resistance up to 100m
- Extra-long battery life (up to 72 hours)
- GPS precision for outdoor sports
- Perfect for athletes, divers, and travelers
3. Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 – Best Apple Watch Alternative
- Full compatibility with iPhone 17
- Sleek round design, AMOLED display
- Long battery life compared to Apple Watch
- Great fitness and health tracking at a lower price
4. Garmin Venu 3 Plus – Best for Fitness Enthusiasts
- Advanced sports tracking (running, cycling, swimming)
- Accurate GPS performance
- Works smoothly with iOS 26 via Garmin Connect app
- Battery life up to 14 days
5. Fossil Gen 7 Smartwatch – Best Stylish Option
- Classic watch design with smart features
- Runs on Wear OS, pairs easily with iPhone
- Google Assistant, heart-rate monitoring, contactless payments
- Perfect balance of fashion and function
6. Fitbit Sense 3 – Best Budget-Friendly Pick
- Affordable yet feature-packed
- Stress tracking, sleep insights, heart health monitoring
- iPhone 17 notifications and app alerts
- Slim, lightweight design
✅ Final Thoughts
If you’re upgrading to the iPhone 17, pairing it with the right smartwatch can completely enhance your lifestyle. The Apple Watch Series 10 is the best all-around option, but if you’re looking for affordability, style, or specialized fitness features, brands like Samsung, Garmin, Fossil, and Fitbit offer fantastic alternatives.