A recent survey conducted by Mastercard indicates that over fifty percent of individuals in the United States are utilizing contactless payment methods, and this trend is expected to persist.
The technology that underpins contactless payments is Near Field Communication (NFC). Numerous smartwatches currently available are equipped with NFC chips, allowing users to execute contactless transactions directly from their wrists. While the increase in cashless transactions may be influenced by the coronavirus pandemic, the convenience offered by NFC payments is undeniably significant.
Fortunately, a majority of the prominent smartwatches from Apple, Samsung, Garmin, and Google’s Fitbit offer some form of NFC payment functionality.
To facilitate your ability to leave your wallet behind during your next walk, run, or cycling session, our research team has dedicated extensive time to online exploration and has pinpointed the seven leading smartwatches equipped with NFC capabilities.
Best Smartwatches With NFC Payment Reviews
1. Galaxy Watch 4
The latest version of the Samsung Galaxy Watch Series marks a significant shift from its predecessors. It is the inaugural device to feature the Wear OS 3 platform, powered by the remarkably efficient 5nm Samsung Exynos W920 CPU.
This smartwatch integrates a blend of applications from both Samsung and Google, providing users with a comprehensive experience. It includes both Bixby and Google Assistant as voice-activated assistants, along with Samsung Pay and Google Pay for contactless transactions.
The NFC chip included in the watch is not a novel addition, as it has been a standard feature in Samsung watches since the introduction of the original Galaxy Watch in 2018. However, the introduction of Google Pay enhances user options.
With its extensive reach across 42 countries, peer-to-peer payment capabilities, and compatibility with various debit, credit, loyalty, and gift cards, Google Pay stands out as our preferred choice between the two payment systems.
The Galaxy Watch 4 is offered in two sizes, 40mm and 44mm, catering to both male and female users. The larger model features a 1.36-inch display, while the smaller variant has a 1.19-inch display.
Both models are protected by Corning Gorilla Glass DX+ and are rated 5ATM for water resistance, allowing for immersion up to 50 meters, as well as providing scratch resistance.
Furthermore, the watch supports GPS tracking for activities such as running, swimming, and cycling. It also serves as a health monitor, capable of tracking heart rate, ECG, sleep patterns, calories burned, and blood oxygen levels.
Users have the option of two connectivity types: LTE and Bluetooth. Although the NFC payment feature does not necessitate an active internet connection, we recommend the LTE version for its standalone capabilities, which include making and receiving calls, streaming Spotify music, and utilizing Google Assistant without the need for a nearby smartphone.
2. Apple Watch Series 7
Each Apple Watch is equipped with an NFC chip, making the capability for contactless payments with the AW7 entirely expected. The S7 chip, responsible for its functionality, has enhanced the user experience to be the most fluid and seamless to date.
Apple Pay stands out as an exceptional NFC payment system, independent of the watch itself. It is accepted in numerous retail environments, both online and offline, due to its widespread adoption. Furthermore, it boasts a larger user base and is available in more countries compared to Google Pay and Samsung Pay.
It is important to highlight that carrying an iPhone is unnecessary, as Apple Pay creates a unique token stored on the Watch that mirrors your credit card information. This allows for transactions at vending machines, subway stations, and grocery stores. Notably, the watch does not require Wi-Fi or an internet connection for these payments.
While any iWatch from Series 3 to Series 6 available in the market can facilitate NFC payments, users will miss out on the bezel-less display, smooth performance, and rapid charging features introduced in the latest model. For those looking to save on these enhancements, the Series SE is recommended over the Series 3.
Moreover, there are multiple options for casing materials (Aluminium, Stainless Steel, or Titanium), connectivity (GPS versus LTE), and sizes (41mm versus 45mm). The price of the watch varies based on these factors, with the entry-level model being the compact Aluminium AW7, which offers only GPS connectivity.
Additionally, this watch is equipped with remarkable sports and fitness tracking capabilities, supporting various activity profiles with accurate GPS tracking.
3. Fitbit Versa 3
NFC payment capabilities, such as those offered by Samsung and Apple, represent a significant selling point for the Fitbit Versa 3. The company introduced its initial contactless payment feature under the brand name “Fitbit Pay” with the limited-edition Versa watch from the outset.
In terms of popularity, Fitbit Pay lags behind competitors like Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Samsung Pay. As of March 2022, the service is available in only 47 countries. However, residents of North America can link major banks and cards to utilize NFC for payments at key transit locations.
Despite Google’s ownership of Fitbit and the inclusion of two voice assistants (Alexa and Google Assistant) in the Versa 3, Google Pay is not compatible with this device.
When examining the watch itself, the Versa 3 stands out as one of the most appealing fitness trackers on the market. Its bezels are nearly imperceptible, and the display boasts a crisp resolution of 360 x 360. Additionally, it is among the lightest smartwatches available, providing a comfortable wearing experience.
The device features independent GPS and technology capable of tracking various activities, but its primary strength lies in health monitoring, where it competes with and sometimes surpasses leading products like the Apple Watch. For instance, its sleep tracking capabilities are more comprehensive than those of any other watch currently available.
The Fitbit Sense, which succeeds the Versa 3, introduces ECG monitoring and additional health sensors, while also supporting Fitbit Pay.
When paired with a smartphone, the Versa 3 can handle calls and control smart home devices. Users can store standard MP3 files and stream music from Pandora wirelessly on the watch, showcasing its advanced functionality.
Lastly, the battery life is dependable. With the always-on display activated and occasional sports tracking, users can expect approximately 3 to 5 days of usage.
4. Mobvoi Ticwatch E3
The Ticwatch E3 is another smartwatch that supports NFC payments through Google Pay, and it is priced more affordably than several other options on this list. It serves as an excellent choice for individuals seeking an economical NFC-enabled watch that includes a variety of features.
While there are some trade-offs, the HD display does not match the quality found in higher-end models. The watch’s size may be somewhat large for those with smaller wrists, and its water resistance is not adequate for swimming activities.
This device is capable of storing and streaming music, but it lacks the functionality for standalone calling. Users can utilize Google Assistant for setting alarms and timers, sending quick text replies, and receiving updates on weather and news. Furthermore, the Google Play Store provides access to a vast array of third-party applications.
In terms of fitness and wellness tracking, this watch offers standard features. It includes a heart rate monitor, calorie tracker, step counter, and GPS for running activities. Additionally, it is equipped with a SpO2 sensor to monitor blood oxygen levels. Mobvoi has established a reliable reputation in this domain, particularly when compared to the Fossil Gen 6.
Finally, the Ticwatch E3 boasts impressive battery life, lasting approximately 45 hours on a single charge, which is sufficient for the needs of most users.
5. Garmin Venu 2 Plus
The Garmin Venu 2 Plus has succeeded the Venu 2/2S, inheriting several of its predecessor’s most notable features. This smartwatch is compatible with a wide array of banks and cards in both North America and the UK, utilizing Garmin’s exclusive contactless payment system known as “Garmin Pay.”
Garmin devices are renowned for their accurate sports tracking capabilities, and the Venu 2 Plus upholds this reputation. It is equipped with GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo multi-navigational satellite systems, ensuring precise location tracking across various activities such as running, cycling, and hiking.
In response to the demands of athletes, particularly runners, Garmin has integrated NFC payment functionality into this model. This feature alleviates the inconvenience of carrying a wallet or smartphone during runs. Users can simply hold the watch near a payment terminal and enter their passcode on the responsive touchscreen, eliminating the need to rummage for cards or cash.
Additionally, the Venu 2 Plus is the first Garmin watch to feature Alexa integration, although voice commands cannot be utilized for passcode entry. The device also includes a built-in speaker and microphone, allowing users to make Bluetooth calls. Furthermore, it supports Spotify streaming and can store up to 500 songs.
The watch boasts an extensive array of fitness tracking features, including continuous heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, daily stress monitoring, respiration tracking, hydration tracking, and more.
However, two notable drawbacks are its high price point and somewhat bulky design, which may be suitable for larger wrists but could be cumbersome for smaller ones. More affordable options, such as the Venu 2S, the original Venu, or the angular Venu SQ Music, also support NFC payments.
Regarding battery performance, Garmin consistently meets user expectations, and the Venu 2 Plus is no exception. It can operate in smartwatch mode for up to 9 days on a single charge and provides 8 hours of music playback.
Final Word
There are numerous factors that contribute to our strong endorsement of the Galaxy Watch 4 for Android users. This smartwatch not only allows for the full utilization of its LTE capabilities but also boasts an extensive range of health sensors, in addition to facilitating NFC payments. Its robust construction ensures seamless synchronization with Android devices.
For those who prefer an alternative, the Apple Watch Series 7 can be paired with an iPhone. This model exemplifies excellence in design, display quality, and functionality, although it is accompanied by a premium price. If contactless payment is a priority, the Apple Watch Series 3 or SE presents a more budget-friendly option.
