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NOTE: This model is discontinued and may no longer be available to purchase new. See the Pebble here.

Pebble Smart Watch review

7.8/10 AVG.
RATING
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Pebble Smart Watch
Pebble Smart Watch
Pebble Smart Watch
Pebble Smart Watch
Pebble Smart Watch
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Specs / Features


Warranty (Months) -
Size 9 x 7 cm (3.5 x 2.8 in)
Weight N/A
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Reviews summary section

What's good

  • Excellent battery life
  • Simple yet effective
  • Durable – water resistant

What's bad

  • Dated look compared to recent smartwatches
  • Somewhat uncomfortable wrist straps
  • Monochrome display

While Pebble wasn't the first smartwatch on the market, it was the one that got consumers interested in the market thanks to its Android and iOS compatibility, open source OS and incredibly successful Kickstarter campaign. When compared to more "modern" smartwatches experts describe the Pebble as looking a bit cheap due to its all plastic build from the casing to the buttons and straps. Despite this, they found it to be very durable especially since it is water resistant in up to 160 feet of salt and fresh water and works in temperatures ranging from 14 degrees to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. They warn, however, that the rubber straps can irritate the skin when worn for long periods of time. Its simple aesthetic was hit or miss with critics as some appreciated its small size, weight and subtle appearance while others found it dated and "dorky."

The 1.26-inch e-paper display is about the same size as the standard size for many luxury watches. There is no touch interface so users can only navigate the menus with the help of four buttons on the side. While the e-paper screen is friendly on the batteries, Wareable states that it, "…resembles a prehistoric Casio…it's simply not enjoyable to use." As an e-paper device, the Pebble only offers monochrome colors as well. It does come with a backlight that can be switched on automatically depending on lighting or activated with a flick of the wrist.

In comparison to other smartwatches, the Pebble does not strive to be a smartphone replacement. Instead, it markets itself more as a companion. Its main function is to provide a quick summary notifications such as emails, phone calls, texts, Twitter and other alerts you would normally need to dig out your phone for and, of course, to tell the time. Reviewers had an excellent experience using it as they received notifications quickly. It was so convenient that Trusted Reviews states, "…it feels second nature within a few days to look at Pebble rather than your phone." Still, it does have its limitations as it can only have up to 8 different apps at a time.

Perhaps Pebble's biggest bragging point is its battery life. Thanks to the e-paper display and the 130mAh battery lasted reviewers around 5 days of light use and 3 days of heavy use. While less than Pebble's reported 7 days, it still means recharging the watch isn't a nightly ritual.

While the Pebble might look a bit dated compared to more recent smartwatches, it still holds its own in terms of functionality. Digital Spy says, "…it isn't as slick as the Moto 360 or LG G Watch, but…[it's] simple, slick and genuinely useful."


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