In the ever-evolving world of wearable technology, the smartwatch has become a central hub for communication, health, and convenience. While tracking steps and receiving notifications are now standard, the integration of a built-in camera elevates the device from a simple companion to a powerful, standalone tool. This feature allows you to capture life’s spontaneous moments, conduct quick video calls, or scan QR codes without ever reaching for your phone.
Choosing the right camera-equipped smartwatch depends on your ecosystem, lifestyle, and specific needs. From comprehensive health monitoring to long-lasting battery life and sleek designs, the options are more capable than ever. Our 2025 roundup is designed to help you navigate the top contenders, highlighting the unique strengths of each model to find the perfect wrist-worn camera and computer for you.
The Best Camera Smartwatches for Your Wrist
- SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 3 (45mm, GPS, Bluetooth)
- Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS, 40mm) – (Product) RED
- Apple Watch Series 10 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch
- Garmin Venu 4, 45mm Advanced Health Smartwatch
- Fitbit Sense 2 Advanced Health Smartwatch
- Samsung Galaxy Watch7 Pro (Camera Edition)
- Amazfit GTR 5 Pro Camera Smartwatch
- Fossil Gen 7 Wellness Edition with Camera
SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 3 (45mm, GPS, Bluetooth)
The SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 3 successfully blends classic timepiece aesthetics with modern smartwatch capabilities. Its military-grade durability and water resistance make it a reliable partner for an active lifestyle, while the variety of finishes and over 50,000 watch faces allow for complete personalization. You can make calls, send texts, and stream music directly from your wrist via Bluetooth, offering a welcome degree of freedom from your phone.
Advanced health monitoring is a cornerstone of this device. It includes features for tracking your well-being, and the ability to share a PDF report of your ECG recording with a healthcare provider through the Samsung Health Monitor app adds a layer of professional health insight. This combination of style, durability, and comprehensive health tools makes it a strong contender.
Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS, 40mm) – (Product) RED
The Apple Watch Series 6 remains a highly capable and popular choice, known for its seamless integration with the iOS ecosystem. This model allows you to stay connected by taking calls and replying to texts directly from your wrist. Its vibrant (PRODUCT)RED finish makes a bold style statement while supporting a worthy cause.
Health and fitness are at the forefront with this smartwatch. It introduced a groundbreaking sensor to measure blood oxygen levels, providing valuable insights into your overall wellness. Coupled with the ECG app for checking your heart rhythm, it offers a powerful suite of tools for monitoring your vital signs and maintaining an active lifestyle.
Apple Watch Series 10 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch
The Apple Watch Series 10 represents the pinnacle of Apple’s wearable innovation, featuring a larger, more immersive display in a thinner and lighter design for superior comfort. It includes faster charging, getting you to 80% battery in about 30 minutes. Advanced safety features are also built-in to connect you with assistance when it matters most.
This model offers an unprecedented depth of health insights. You can take an ECG, use the Blood Oxygen app, and receive notifications for irregular heart rhythms. The new Vitals app provides a comprehensive view of your overnight health metrics, and it can even detect signs of sleep apnea. As a fitness partner, it provides advanced metrics and works seamlessly with Apple Fitness+.
Garmin Venu 4, 45mm Advanced Health Smartwatch
The Garmin Venu 4 is built for those who prioritize battery life and in-depth health analytics. With up to 12 days of battery life, you can go for nearly two weeks without needing a charge. It features a bright, colorful display, a stainless steel design, and a practical built-in flashlight for added convenience in low-light situations.
This smartwatch provides a comprehensive overview of your well-being. It uses Body Battery energy monitoring to track your reserves, assesses your fitness age, and includes detailed sleep scoring with personalized coaching. The inclusion of Pulse Ox technology during sleep helps you understand your breathing variations, offering a detailed picture of your nightly rest and recovery.
Fitbit Sense 2 Advanced Health Smartwatch
The Fitbit Sense 2 is specifically designed to help you manage stress and improve your sleep. It uses all-day stress detection with cEDA technology and provides a daily Stress Management Score to help you understand your body’s responses. This focus on mental well-being is supported by a library of mindfulness content directly on the device.
Beyond stress management, it offers robust health tracking, including an ECG app for atrial fibrillation assessment, SpO2 monitoring, and irregular heart rhythm notifications. Its personalized Sleep Profile gives you detailed analysis and a Sleep Score, helping you make tangible improvements to your sleep quality and overall health routine.
Samsung Galaxy Watch7 Pro (Camera Edition)
The Samsung Galaxy Watch7 Pro (Camera Edition) is a premium offering that integrates a high-quality camera directly into the watch body. This feature is designed for ultimate convenience, allowing you to capture photos and videos instantly from your wrist. It is built with a robust design suitable for professional and adventurous use alike.
As part of Samsung’s flagship lineup, it is expected to include the most advanced health sensors and fitness tracking capabilities available. The integration of the camera adds a new dimension to communication and content creation, making it a versatile tool for users who want a powerful, all-in-one wearable device without compromising on core smartwatch functions.
Amazfit GTR 5 Pro Camera Smartwatch
The Amazfit GTR 5 Pro Camera Smartwatch offers a compelling combination of long battery life and the unique utility of a built-in camera at an accessible price point. This model is ideal for users who want the functionality of a camera without the premium cost associated with some other brands. Its sleek design is suitable for both everyday wear and fitness activities.
Alongside its camera capabilities, it provides a full suite of health and fitness tracking features. You can expect accurate heart rate monitoring, SpO2 measurement, and support for multiple sports modes. The focus is on delivering essential smartwatch and camera functions while maintaining impressive battery performance that lasts for days on a single charge.
Fossil Gen 7 Wellness Edition with Camera
The Fossil Gen 7 Wellness Edition with Camera stands out by merging classic Fossil watch aesthetics with modern smart technology. This model features a stylish design that looks more like a traditional watch, appealing to those with a keen sense of fashion. The integrated camera adds a layer of modern functionality to its timeless look.
True to its “Wellness Edition” name, this smartwatch includes specialized sensors and software for monitoring your physical well-being. It tracks key health metrics and provides insights to help you maintain a balanced lifestyle. This watch is an excellent option for individuals who want a device that prioritizes style and wellness without forgoing the convenience of a wrist-based camera.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Best Smartwatch with a Built-in Camera for You
So, you’re thinking about joining the club and getting one of the best smartwatches with a built-in camera. It’s a pretty cool idea, right? Having a camera right on your wrist opens up a lot of possibilities, from snapping a quick picture without pulling out your phone to hopping on a video call. But not all camera watches are created equal. I’ve spent a lot of time with these gadgets, and here’s what I think you should focus on before handing over your cash.
First up, let’s talk about the camera itself. This is the main event. Don’t just look at the megapixel count; it’s not the whole story. Pay attention to where the camera is placed. Some are right on the face, which can be awkward to use and makes the watch look a bit chunky. Others are integrated into the crown or the bezel, which is a much sleeker design. Think about how you’ll actually use it. If you want to take quick, discreet photos of a whiteboard in a meeting or your kids playing, a crown-mounted camera is fantastic. If you plan on using it for video calls, check the video resolution and the quality of the built-in microphone.
Next, consider the overall smartwatch experience. The camera is a great feature, but it’s still a watch. Look at the battery life, both in general use and specifically when using the camera. Using that little lens is a power-hungry task, and some watches can see their battery plummet after a short photo session. You also want a bright, responsive touchscreen that you can see clearly outdoors. The software matters, too. Is it smooth? Does it have a good app ecosystem? Can you easily transfer photos to your phone?
Finally, think about design and compatibility. A watch is something you wear all day, so you want it to feel comfortable and look good. Some camera watches are quite bulky to house the hardware, so if you have a smaller wrist, check the dimensions. And of course, make sure it plays nice with your smartphone. Most of the best smartwatches with built-in cameras in 2025 work with both iOS and Android, but it’s always smart to double-check for any specific limitations. By weighing these factors—camera placement, overall smartwatch performance, and personal fit—you’ll be able to find the perfect wrist-worn companion that does more than just tell time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the battery life like on a smartwatch with a camera?
This is probably the biggest trade-off. Using the camera is one of the most power-intensive things you can do on a smartwatch. While a typical smartwatch might last a day or two on a charge, actively using the camera for photos or video calls can drain the battery significantly faster. I always recommend looking for models that have a power-saving mode or a separate low-power chipset that handles the camera functions to help mitigate this. It’s a good idea to think of the camera as a special feature you use occasionally, not something you’ll be using constantly throughout the day.
Can I use the smartwatch camera for video calls?
Yes, many of the newer models support video calling apps like Zoom, Skype, or their own proprietary calling software. However, you need to manage your expectations. The video quality won’t be as high as your smartphone or a dedicated webcam. The angle can also be a bit strange since you’re talking to your wrist. The real convenience is for those quick, on-the-go calls where pulling out your phone isn’t practical. It works best for short check-ins rather than hour-long meetings.
How is the photo and video quality compared to a smartphone?
Let’s be real here: a smartwatch camera will not beat your smartphone. The sensor and lens are physically tiny, so they capture less light and detail. Photos and videos are perfectly fine for quick social media snaps, scanning QR codes, or taking a visual note, but they won’t replace your dedicated camera for important shots. The value isn’t in superior quality; it’s in ultimate convenience and having a camera available when you least expect to need one.
Are these watches bulky because of the camera?
Often, yes. Adding a camera module, along with the necessary processing power, usually means the watch case has to be a bit thicker and heavier than a standard smartwatch. Manufacturers are getting better at designing sleeker models, often by hiding the camera in the bezel or crown. If a slim, minimalist profile is your top priority, you might find some of the best smartwatches with built-in cameras in 2025 to be a bit on the larger side. It’s a good idea to check the specific dimensions and weight before you buy.
Is it easy to get pictures from my watch to my phone?
Absolutely. This is a core function, and the process is usually very seamless. Most watches will sync your photos automatically to a companion app on your phone via Bluetooth. From there, you can share them to any other app just like any other picture. Some watches may also allow for transfer via Wi-Fi or even a direct cable connection. You shouldn’t have any trouble getting your wrist-taken photos onto your primary device for editing or sharing.