14 Best Smartwatch Make Calls without Phone in 2023

A smartwatch with LTE support can make phone calls and send texts just like any smartphone! Some smartwatches have Bluetooth calling features that support phone-free calling, but you need your smartphone nearby to do so.

If you want to make phone calls even when you are far away from your smartphone, you need a smartphone with 3/4G or LTE connectivity. A smartwatch with 3/4G or LTE support can directly connect to the cellular network and doesn’t need a paired smartphone to make phone calls.

Also Read:

• Apple Watch Ultra 2 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
• Apple Watch Ultra 2 vs Ultra
• 14 Best Smartwatch with ECG Approved By FDA

A smartwatch with LTE Technology costs you extra as it comes with additional hardware components. Plus, you may require a separate data plan for the cellular smartwatch. Fortunately, you can use the same number on your smartwatch and smartphone. It allows you to answer calls on either device.

OUR TOP RECOMMENDED SMARTWATCHES WITH LTE

Besides, a standalone smartwatch with LTE support does not require a physical SIM. Instead, it uses a virtual or e-SIM that you can activate just by calling your cellular provider, and it takes only a few minutes! So, you don’t need to go to a shop to buy a SIM card and then break the smartwatch to insert a SIM card like in the old days.

You should ensure that the smartwatch watch that you are going to buy should have good sound and voice quality. Otherwise, it will be frustrating. Also, you should check the smartwatch’s battery life, as some devices may not last long when used for making calls.

After long research and our own experience, I have compiled a list of the best smartwatch make phone calls in 2023. The watches listed here are top-notch and ensure a great experience when used for making phone calls.

14 Best Smartwatch Make Calls without Phone

1. Apple Watch Ultra 2: Best LTE Smartwatch for iPhone
2. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 LTE: Best LTE Smartwatch for Android
3. Apple Watch Series 9 LTE: Best Alternative to Apple Watch Ultra 2
4. Apple Watch Series 8: Best LTE Watch for iPhone Users
5. Apple Watch Ultra: Best LTE Watch Athletes
6. Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro with LTE and GPS
7. Google Pixel Watch with LTE
8. Apple Watch Series 7 GPS and Cellular: Best Alternative to Apple Watch Series 8
9. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 LTE and GPS
10. Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 with Built-in GPS and LTE
11. Apple Watch SE with GPS+Cellular
12. Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE
13. Apple Watch Series 3 LTE+ GPS
14. Fossil Gen 5 LTE varient

1. Apple Watch Ultra 2: Apple Watch with LTE

With its cutting-edge features and impressive specs, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 stands out as one of the best smartwatches for making phone calls without needing a smartphone. Like every modern smartwatch with LTE, it features an eSIM that connects to the cellular network to make phone calls or send text messages hassle-free. 

With dimensions of 49 x 44 x 14.4 mm (1.93 x 1.73 x 0.57 in) and a lightweight build of 61.4 g (2.15 oz), the Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers a rugged modern design that ensures comfort during extended wear. Its durability is reinforced with MIL-STD 810H certification, making it highly resilient for various outdoor activities.

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 has a stunning Retina LTPO OLED display that delivers vibrant colors and sharp details. Boasting a peak brightness of 3000 nits ensures excellent visibility even in bright sunlight. The screen’s resolution of 502 x 410 pixels (~338 ppi density) guarantees a crisp and clear view of your notifications, messages, and more. Its added protection with sapphire crystal glass keeps your display scratch-free and pristine.

The convenience of an always-on display cannot be overstated. With the Apple Watch Ultra 2, you don’t need to raise your wrist or tap the screen to check the time or your notifications. The always-on display feature ensures that essential information is readily available at a glance, saving you time and making your daily routine more efficient.

Beyond its exceptional connectivity and display, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is also a robust health and fitness companion. It has an ECG feature, allowing you to monitor your heart’s electrical activity and potentially detect irregularities. Additionally, the built-in SpO2 sensor provides insights into your blood oxygen levels, which is crucial for tracking your overall well-being.

WatchOS 10, Apple’s latest sophisticated smartwatch operating system, drives all these remarkable features. With watchOS 10, you’ll enjoy a user-friendly interface, seamless app integration, and regular software updates to keep your smartwatch performing at its best.

Making phone calls from your wrist is a breeze with the Apple Watch Ultra 2’s loudspeaker. Whether in a noisy environment or prefer hands-free calling, this smartwatch delivers crystal-clear audio for your conversations.

Pros:

• Standalone calling
• Sleek and durable design
• Impressive always-on display
• Advanced health features
• watchOS 10
• Crystal-clear calls

Cons:

• Apple ecosystem dependency
• Premium price
• Limited battery life
• iOS dependency

2. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6: Best Phone Smartwatch for Android Users

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 is also equipped with eSIM and can make phone calls or send text messages by itself, thanks to its optional LTE connectivity. Whether you’re out on a jog, in an important meeting, or wish to enjoy the freedom of leaving your phone behind, this LTE-enabled smartwatch empowers you with the ultimate connectivity independence.

Beyond just phone calls, the LTE connectivity of the Galaxy Watch 6 extends to a host of other conveniences. Receive notifications, respond to messages, and make contactless payments with Samsung Pay without needing your smartphone nearby.

Health tracking is at the forefront of the Galaxy Watch 6’s capabilities. It goes beyond basic heart rate monitoring, offering features like ECG (electrocardiogram) and blood pressure measurement. This smartwatch serves as your personal health assistant, delivering valuable insights into your well-being and allowing you to effortlessly stay on top of your health goals.

The Galaxy Watch 6 Classic doesn’t just impress with its functionality; it’s also a fashion statement. The attractive rotating bezel enhances its classic and stylish design, providing tactile and seamless navigation. The Super AMOLED display ensures that visuals are not just sharp but vibrant, making this smartwatch a statement piece that complements your style effortlessly.

In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 is a masterfully crafted wearable that combines standalone smartwatch capabilities with convenient LTE connectivity. Whether you’re seeking the freedom to leave your phone behind while staying connected or you desire a comprehensive health and fitness tracker that complements your style, the Galaxy Watch 6 delivers on all fronts. It’s more than just a smartwatch; it’s your trusted companion for modern living.

Pros

• Premium design and display
• Advanced health and fitness tracking
• Built-in music storage and streaming support
• Built-in GPS and navigation features
• Powered by the latest Wear OS 4.0

Cons

• Expensive
• Must use with a compatible Samsung Smartphone for full functionality

3. Apple Watch Series 9: Best Alternative to Apple Watch Ultra 2

The Apple Watch Series 9 is the perfect choice for those seeking a high-quality smartwatch with phone call capabilities without needing a smartphone. Released alongside the Ultra 2, it offers an excellent alternative for those seeking a more budget-friendly option. This exceptional smartwatch takes communication and health tracking to new heights, offering users a range of features that make it a standout choice in the smartwatch market.

One of the key features of the Series 9 is its ability to make and receive phone calls independently, thanks to its integrated LTE connectivity. Unlike the Apple Watch Ultra 2, the Series 9 comes in both non-LTE and LTE variants, with the LTE model offering enhanced connectivity options. This means you can stay connected even when your smartphone isn’t nearby.

The Series 9 is available in two case sizes, catering to different preferences and wrist sizes – 45mm and 41mm. These options ensure that you can find the perfect fit for your style and comfort. Additionally, you can choose between aluminum and stainless steel case variants, allowing you to opt for a lightweight yet durable build or a more premium, robust material.

The Apple Watch Series 9 offers up to 37 hours of usage on a single charge, consistent with previous Apple Watch models. However, it can extend battery life up to an impressive 72 hours in Low Power Mode, making it ideal for conserving power during long trips or when you cannot charge your device regularly. Additionally, the Series 9 supports fast charging, allowing you to top up your watch’s battery when needed quickly.

The Apple Watch Series 9 includes an Emergency SOS feature and international emergency calling for added safety and peace of mind. These features can be invaluable in critical situations, ensuring you can quickly seek assistance.

In summary, the Apple Watch Series 9 is your ultimate smartwatch for making phone calls without needing a smartphone. Its standalone LTE connectivity, impressive battery life, and upcoming double-tap gesture feature make it a top choice for a versatile and reliable wearable device.

Pros:

• High-quality display
• Diverse case sizes
• Long battery life with fast charging
• Emergency SOS features

Cons:

• Price (LTE)
• Limited Android support
• The gestures feature is not available at the release

4. Apple Watch Series 8: Best LTE Watch for iPhone Users

Apple Watch Series 8 is one of the best health and fitness tracking smartwatches you can buy in 2023. The LTE+GPS variant comes with an eSIM which allows you to make or receive phone calls, send text messages, and even use internet-based apps without your iPhone nearby.

The Apple Watch Series 8 is available in 41 and 45-mm sizes, and both variants feature an always-on retina display with 352×430 in the 41-mm variant and 396×484 in the 45-mm variant. It is available in stainless steel and aluminum finishes with various strap options. Both the variants are water-resistant up to a depth of 50 meters and track swimming.

The temperature monitoring sensor in Apple Watch Series 8 does not take your skin temperature but can detect temperature variation during ovulation in females, which helps plan a pregnancy. The car crash detection feature uses the smartwatch’s built-in accelerometer and gyroscope to automatically detect a crash and call emergency services with your location.

The Apple Watch Series 8 has a highly accurate built-in GPS sensor that easily tracks your outdoor workout activities like running, hiking, mountain biking, etc. The watch supports music streaming apps such as Spotify, Deezer, and Apple Music and even allows you to download your favorite tracks into the watch. Since this watch has cellular/4 G support, you dont need your iPhone for music streaming.

The battery life of the Apple Watch Series 8 is 18 hours, just like older generation Apple Watches. However, the Apple Watch Series 8 and Apple Watch Ultra have a Low Power Mode that can extend the battery life by about 36 hours, killing some features such as an always-on display. Unfortunately, the watch can last only 1-2 hours when connected to the LTE, which is a huge drawback.

The Apple Watch Series 8 is one of the best smartwatches with LTE support that you can buy. It has a sleek design, top-notch display, and accurate fitness tracking features. However, the watch’s battery life is not good compared to other smartwatches with similar features and specs.

Pros

• Built quality and larger screen
• New overnight temperature sensor
• Car crash detection
• Increased battery life

Cons

• Same design as the Series 7
• Limited skin temperature monitoring feature

5. Apple Watch Ultra: Best LTE Watch for Athletes

Apple Watch Ultra is a high-end smartwatch from Apple that focuses on outdoor enthusiasts and athletes. The watch has a larger display(49mm), better build quality, and more accurate sensors for tracking various activities and health parameters.

Once the LTE/4G is activated on Ultra, it can make phone or receive phone calls from your watch and even stream music via supported streaming apps. So, you can enjoy music while exploring nature or going on a run without your iPhone.

The Apple Watch Ultra has a high-quality rectangle display protected by Sapphire crystal glass, which is more resistant to scratches than the regular glass used in most smartwatches. The watch also has an always-on display and a unique  Wayfinder watch face. The Wayfinder watch face includes a built-in compass and eight complications to give you as much information on your wrist as possible.

If we compare the health tracking features of the Apple Watch Ultra and Apple Watch Series 8, both have the same features. The FDA Approved Electrocardiogram(ECG/EKG), Blood oxygen level monitoring, and Irregular heart rate alerts are a few of the health tracking features.

The Apple Watch Ultra has MIL-STD20-810H certification and works in extreme temperatures and cold environments(20°-55° C). It has 100 meters of water resistance like advanced Garmin watches such as the Fenix 7, Epix Gen 2, and Garmin Enduro 2.

The Apple Watch Ultra is for outdoor enthusiasts! But while the new Apple Watch Ultra may be an excellent tool for athletes and outdoorsy types, it’s not perfect. The watch is still relatively expensive, and its battery life isn’t as good as some of its competitors. Nevertheless, the Apple Watch Ultra is a solid smartwatch that should appeal to a wide range of users.

Pros

• Durable design
• High-performing S8 Chip
• 100 ATM water-resistance
• Advanced health tracking features
• Fall detection and Car Crash detection
• 36 hours of battery life

Cons

• Expensive
• S8 Chip and WatchOS

6. Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro and Watch 5

Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is the latest in the list of the best smartwatches that makes phone calls in 2023. The newest Galaxy Watch 5 is available in two variants: the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro and Galaxy Watch 5, and both variants are available in LTE and 4G versions. The Pro version is more expensive than the Watch 5, but it offers more features, such as a larger battery and titanium casing.

If you don’t have an LTE variant, you can still answer phone calls or texts as long as you have your connected smartphone with you. However, you need an LTE/4G variant to make phone calls without your smartphone. With its LTE variant, you can use apps that require internet connectivity, such as Uber, Spotify, Deezer, etc.

All Galaxy Watch 5 variants have a Super AMOLED touchscreen with 450 x 450px resolution, which the Sapphire Crystal Glass protects. It also has 5 ATM water resistance and a built-in swimming mode to track your swimming metrics. The Galaxy Watch 5 is powered by the Exynos W920 processor and has 1.5 GB of RAM and 16 GB of internal storage. It runs on the latest Wear OS 3.0 and is compatible with Android 6.0+ iOS 11.0 or later versions.

The health tracking features of the Galaxy Watch 5 are almost like its predecessor, the Galaxy Watch 4! Both the models have a built-in ECG App, SpO2 monitor, Fall Detection, and stress tracking features. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 has improved sleep tracking features compared to the Galaxy Watch 4, which is more accurate. Besides, the Galaxy Watch 5 has an inactive skin temperature sensor that may get activated via a future software update.

Galaxy Watch 5 and 5 Pro have a larger battery than their predecessor. The Galaxy Watch 5 Pro features an even bigger 590mAh battery which can last for about five days after a full charge. Plus, the Galaxy Watch 5, which features a 284mAh battery, takes only 30 minutes to charge 45% if you charge via the all-new USB-C charger! On the other hand, the Charge 5 Pro takes a bit longer to charge due to its larger battery.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is an excellent smartwatch with LTE, military-grade durability, and long-lasting battery life. If you are looking for an all-in-one smartwatch, the Galaxy Watch 5 is the best smartwatch for you!

Pros

• Beautiful design
• Excellent voice quality
• Advanced health tracking features, including ECG and B.P
• built-in GPS and 5 ATM water resistance
• Longer battery life

Cons

• No marked improvement from the previous model
• No Classic Model is available
• Expensive

7. Google Pixel Watch with LTE: First Google Smartwatch(with LTE)

Google has been working on its own smartwatch for many years, but the release of the Pixel Watch has been delayed many times. Initially, the watch was supposed to be released alongside the original Pixel phone in 2016. However, due to unknown reasons, the release was pushed back, and it wasn’t until October 2022 that the watch was actually released.

The Pixel watch lacks many features of the Google-owned Fitbit, such as temperature and SpO2 monitoring. However, Google Pixel features an LTE function that is unavailable in any Fitbit watch. Like modern watches, the Pixel watch also features an eSIM, making it very convenient to activate cellular functions without needing a physical SIM card.

Since it got a high-quality built-in speaker and mic, the quality of phone calls is very clear. You can also access Google Assistant and give commands to make phone calls, send messages, set alarms, and much more. On the other hand, if you prefer a Pixel watch without LTE(Wi-Fi and Bluetooth), it still supports Bluetooth calling, but you need to have your paired smartphone with you.

The Google Pixel Watch has a high-quality AMOLED color display, protected by the Corning® Gorilla® Glass 5, which makes it less vulnerable to scratches. It also has an always-on display mode to see the time and your notifications even when the watch is not actively used. The Pixel Watch is also water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it perfect for swimming or other activities where you might get wet.

The health tracking features in the Pixel watch are by Fitbit. This means that you can get most of the features of Fitbit, such as an FDA Approved ECG, heart rate zone minutes, stress tracking, continuous heart rate monitoring, etc. However, the Google Pixel watch does not have features like skin temperature monitoring or SpO2 Monitoring.

The Google Pixel watch has an impressive 24 hours of battery life in smartwatch mode. With GPS, the watch gives 12 hours of battery life, which is impressive. If we look at the charging time, the Pixel watch takes about 55 minutes to reach 80% and 80 minutes to get 100%.

The Google Pixel watch is an excellent smartwatch with LTE support, allowing you to make phone calls without your smartphone. However, the LTE feature in Google Pixel watches currently support only in limited countries and carriers. You can get the full list of regions and carriers from Google’s website. Plus, the high price tag and absence of some health tracking features may disappoint some users.

Pros

• Attractive design
• Good call quality
• FDA Approved ECG
• Highly accurate GPS
• Emergency SOS and fall detection
• Music streaming and storage

Cons

• High price
• Only available in one size(41mm)
• Limited health tracking features

8. Apple Watch Series 7 GPS and Cellular: Best for iPhone Users

The Apple Watch Series 7 with GPS and Cellular is another popular smartwatch with LTE Technology in 2023. Because of its powerful microphone and speaker, you don’t need to worry about the call quality. Alternatively, you can pair it with your Earpods to make phone calls, especially while running or working out.

In addition to making calls, this smartwatch can stream music via streaming apps such as Apple Music, Spotify, or Pandora. It also supports many other internet-based apps such as weather, Maps, and so on, allowing you to stay connected even if you don’t have a smartphone with you.

When it comes to the design, the Apple Watch Series 7 is available in 41, and 45-mm sizes and features a high-quality always-on OLED Retina display, which is 20% larger than its predecessor, the Apple Watch Series 6. This means you can easily read and view your messages and callers’ names. Plus, it also has a specially designed QWERTY keyboard which brings your typing experience to the next level.

The Apple Watch Series 7 has many health tracking features such as Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG), Blood oxygen level monitoring, sleep tracking, and many more. The ECG in Apple Watch Series 4 and above variants are validated by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) and thus is more reliable in detecting Atrial Fibrillation(AFib) and irregular heart rates.

Apple Watch Series 7 with LTE also features a built-in GPS and fall detection feature, which can automatically call emergency assistance if it detects a fall, and you are unresponsive for more than a minute. The Series 7 without cellular also has this feature, but you need to have your iPhone with you to use it.

The only downside of the Apple Series 7 is its battery life! Like every other Apple Watches, the Series 7 lasts for about 18 hours only in standard usage. The battery may drain even faster if you use features like calling, GPS, music streaming, etc. However, for a slight relief, the Series 7 charges faster than any other Apple Watches, and it takes only 45 minutes to charge from 0% to 80%.

The Apple Watch Series 7 with LTE is an excellent smartwatch with many features, such as making phone calls, streaming music, fitness tracking, etc. If your budget allows, then the Apple Watch Series 7 is your best pick!

Pros

• Crisp and clear display
• Good build quality
• Speaker and microphone
• Excellent call quality
• Advanced health tracking features
• FDA approved ECG

Cons

• Short battery life
• Expensive

9. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 LTE and GPS

Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 comes with a lot of improvements from its predecessor, the Galaxy Watch 3. This watch uses Wear OS 3.0 by replacing the Tizen OS, an improved OS developed by Google and Samsung. As a result, you get access to all the features and apps that are available on the Google Play Store. Plus, Wear OS 3.0 is more powerful than the Tizen OS, which offers a smooth and uninterrupted experience while using it.

The fourth generation of Galaxy Watches is offered in two models: the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic and Galaxy Watch 4, and both variants are available in LTE and non-LTE options. With Galaxy Watch 4, you can make phone-free calls right from your wrist without grabbing your smartphone.

Its microphone and speakers are so powerful that you don’t need to lean in to hear or be heard, even in noisy environments. You can also pair Galaxy Watch 4 with a Bluetooth headset for an even better experience. Plus, you can also stream music or store your favorite tracks right on your Galaxy Watch 4, so you can leave your phone at home when you go for a run.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 features a high-quality AMOLED display and is protected by Gorilla Glass DX+. It also has an always-on display mode, so you can always see the time and other data on the watch without tapping or pressing the buttons.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 has many health tracking features similar to the Apple Watch Series 7. The ECG monitoring feature is clinically validated by the FDA and is very accurate. It can also have the ability to track your heart rate, blood oxygen level, sleep, and stress level. Plus, it is also packed with a Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) Sensor that can measure your body fat, water level, and muscle mass.

The Galaxy Watch 4 is also very accurate in tracking your activities. It can track about 90+ different types of exercises, and you can see detailed information about each one in the Samsung Health App. Plus, it has a built-in GPS so you can get more accurate details about your pace, distance traveled, and calories burned.

The battery of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 lasts for about two days which is longer than 18 hours of battery life on the Apple Watches. Plus, it only takes about 90 minutes to charge from 0% to 100%.

Pros

• Very Premium classical design
• Super AMOLED display
• Good voice quality
• Supports music streaming and storage
• Compatible with both Android and iOS
• 5 ATM water-resistance

Cons

• The BIA sensor is not very accurate
• LTE feature may not be available in every country

10. Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 with Built-in GPS and LTE

TicWatch Pro 3 GPS with LTE is a beautiful Wear OS Smartwatch powered by the Snapdragon Wear 4100+. Even though it is a leading Wear OS watch in 2023, the lack of the latest Wear OS 3.0 is a huge disadvantage and makes it fall behind the latest Samsung Galaxy Watch 4.

This cellular smartwatch allows you to make phone calls or listen to music via its high-quality speaker and microphone. Popular cellular carriers such as Verizon, Vodaphone, etc., support Mobivi Cellular Smartwatches. Make sure to check with your current cellular provider to ensure that your country supports the e-SIM technology in TicWatch Pro 3.

This LTE watch is made of highly durable Stainless steel and plastic, which can withstand 5 ATM water resistance. This watch features a high-quality AMOLED Display with a 454 x 454 resolution protected by Corning Gorilla Glass. The Snapdragon Wear 4100+ with 1 GB RAM and 8 GB ROM ensures the smooth operation of the watch.

The TicWatch Pro 3 has sensors to monitor various health metrics such as heart rate, blood oxygen level, sleep, stress level, etc. It also has over pre-installed 100+ sports modes that can track your various indoor and outdoor activities, such as running, walking, biking, etc. The built-in GPS ensures that you always get accurate data about your location, pace, and distance traveled without needing to carry your smartphone with you.

The smart features of the TicWatch Pro 3 include the ability to get smartphone notifications and make payments via Google Pay, Google Assistant, etc. The TicWatch Pro 3 battery is about 2-3 days on a single charge with normal usage. If you use the watch continuously for GPS tracking or making phone calls, the battery will last for about 18-24 hours.

The Mobvoi Tic Watch Pro 3 is an expensive smartwatch with cellular technology. However, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, which also has a similar price, comes with more features, including the latest Wear OS 3.0 and advanced health monitoring features such as ECG and Blood Pressure.

Pros

• High-quality Display
• Always on display mode
• 5 ATM Water-resistance
• Multiple port modes
• 24/7 heart rate monitoring abnormal heart rate warning.

Cons

• Wear OS 3.0 is not available yet
• Interface requires improvements
• Verizon is the only supported carrier

11. Apple Watch SE with GPS + Cellular

It is a cheap alternative to the high-end expensive Apple Watch models such as the Series 7 and 6. Luckily, it also has a cellular variant with many standalone features, such as the ability to make and receive phone calls and SMS and use internet-based apps independent of the iPhone. Plus, with the help of its microphone and loudspeaker, you can make hands-free calls without worrying about voice quality.

The Apple Watch SE has a similar look and feels to the Apple Watch Series 6, and more importantly, it is less expensive. You can get this smartwatch if you are ready to leave some features like always on display, Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG), and SpO2 Monitoring.

This affordable Apple Watch is available in Aluminum and Stainless-Steel body materials with Retina Display. The 40mm case weighs 30 grams, while the 44mm case weighs 36 grams. It has a Retina LTPO OLED display with 1000 nits brightness and 324 by 394 pixels, which means that the visibility is excellent in direct sunlight.

The watch is water resistant up to a depth of 50 and has a dedicated profile tracking swimming. It also has highly accurate location tracking features with GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, and QZSS. Plus, it also has a fall detection feature that calls the Emergency Department for help in case of a bad fall.

The battery life remains 18 hours like any other Apple Watches. As a result, you need to charge your smartwatch daily for uninterrupted health and fitness tracking. It also streams and plays music without your iPhone nearby, but it will drain the battery even faster.

Apple Watch SE is the best and cheap smartwatch with at least a few of the latest technologies in the Apple Watch Series 6, including LTE connectivity. So, if you don’t need features like ECG App, SpO2, etc., then Apple Watch SE is a good option worth considering.

Pros

• Premium design and durability
• Waterproof and swim-proof up to 50 meters.
• Apple Pay
• Gym Kit Support
• Sleep tracking

Cons

• No ECG or SpO2
• No always-on display

12. Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE and GPS

The Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE is for athletes and triathletes who want to stay connected even when they are training. The Garmin LTE watch has a built-in LTE that lets you make calls, send texts, and download apps without your phone. Plus, with this running watch, you can stream or download music right from your watch.

The Forerunner 945 LTE uses e-SIM technology, so you don’t need a physical SIM card to activate the calling feature. Like fall detection in Apple Watch Series 7, the Forerunner 945 also has a similar security feature that sends SOS messages to the pre-saved contacts in an emergency. Since this watch has LTE connectivity, you can send these SOS Messages without a smartphone.

This GPS Sport watch has a transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) screen protected by the Corning Gorilla Glass DX, offering decent display visibility even in direct sunlight. The watch also features an always-on display mode so you can see the time and other data without tapping on the screen or pressing any button.

The Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE has a highly accurate location tracking feature powered by GPS, GLONASS, and GALILEO. This helps you track your speed, pace, location, and distance traveled more accurately. This running GPS watch also has multiple sports profiles for tracking activities like biking, mountain biking, running, jogging, swimming, and many more.

The Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE Smartwatch has a wrist-based heart rate sensor that continuously monitors your heart rate throughout the day and even alerts you in case of an abnormally increased or decreased heart rate. Besides, it also tracks your blood oxygen level, sleep, stress level, etc.

The Forerunner 945 LTE has various battery modes that help you optimize battery usage depending on your usage. For instance, the ‘Smartwatch Mode” gives you about 14 days of battery life, while the “GPS mode with music and LTE LiveTrack” gives you only seven hours of battery life. So, if you are going for a longer run or hiking, choose “GPS mode without music,” which gives you about 35 hours of battery life!

The Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE is the only advanced running smartwatch with LTE connectivity. It allows users to track their activities and stay connected even when they are away from their smartphones.

Pros

• Specifically designed for runners
• Highly accurate location tracking
• Intelligent battery modes
• Music streaming and storage
• Incident detection and emergency SOS features

Cons

• Expensive
• No ECG or BP

13. Apple Watch Series 3 LTE+ GPS

Even though it is an older watch, the Apple Watch Series 3 is still a fantastic smartwatch with excellent voice call quality. Like top models from Apple, the Series 3 also has a good speaker and microphone, allowing phone-free calling.

Apple Watch Series 3 does not have a music streaming or storage feature, but it allows smartphone music control from your wrist. This means that if you like to listen to songs while running, you must carry your smartphone along with you. Otherwise, you should consider the Apple Watch SE or Series 6, which have the music streaming feature.

Apple Watch Series 3 LTE is supported by multiple carriers and countries, including the US, U.K., Canada, Australia, and more. You can have the complete list here. Even though it is an older generation of Apple Watch, it uses e-SIM for cellular connectivity, which you can easily activate via supported carriers in your area.

Many countries, including the US, Canada, the UK, etc., support the Apple Watch Series 3 calling feature. Carriers like AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Sprint, and more offer support for Series 3 LTE, and if you are on any of these carriers, you can use the cellular feature on your wrist. The good news is that the Series 3 LTE+GPS watch uses e-SIM support, which makes it easier to use and activate the cellular feature.

The Apple Watch Series 3 has an OLED display with a resolution of 272 x 340 pixels(38mm) or 312 x 390 pixels (42mm). Even if it is not bright as high-end Apple wearables, you can clearly see the content on the screen under direct sunlight.

LTE and non-LTE variants feature a built-in GPS, accelerometer, and barometric altimeter to track your various indoor and outdoor activities accurately. The swim-proof smartwatch (5ATM) can track your swimming metrics, including stroke type, distance, and pace.

The Apple Watch Series 3 has a pretty accurate optical heart rate sensor that uses LED lights to calculate your heart rate. But it does not have advanced health tracking features such as SpO2 or FDA Approved ECG. The Electrocardiogram (ECG) feature is available only on the Apple Watch Series 4 and above versions, whereas the SpO2 Sensor is accessible on Series 6 and above.

The battery of the Series 3 is 18 hours, just like every Apple Watches! However, with continuous LTE usage, the battery dies even faster. As a result, you won’t be able to use all the watch’s features for a complete day if you are not near the charger.

Of course, the Apple Watch Series 3 is an affordable option for iPhone users. However, it does not have advanced health-tracking features such as ECG or SpO2. The watch also has a small screen compared to the later variants. So Apple Watch SE is a better alternative even though it costs a bit more.

Pros

• Affordable
• Essential Fitness tracking features
• Music streaming support via Apple Music
• 5 ATM water-resistance

Cons

• Limited features
• LTE setup is complicated
• Battery dies faster when connected to the cellular network.

14. Fossil Gen 5 LTE Variant

At launch, Fossil Gen 5 came without an LTE variant, but later, the company added an LTE variant to the Gen 5 series. Fossil has recently launched Gen 6 watch, but unfortunately, it does not have a cellular variant yet. So, if you need a Fossil watch with LTE technology, the Gen 5 is your only option for you. 

Verizon is currently the only supported carrier for the Fossil Gen 5 Cellular smartwatch in the USA. In the future, other companies may provide LTE support, but as of now, it is not available. If you are with Verizon, you can use the same mobile number on your smartphone and smartwatch via Verizon Number Share Plan.

The quality of calls is not as good as a smartphone. When tested, the person on the other end could not hear the voice properly, and the Smartwatch had to be brought close to my face to listen to the voice. In a nutshell, the Fossil Gen 5 LTE watch offers acceptable call quality, but if you need more freedom, you might want to consider other options.

The Fossil gen 5 Cellar watch has a 1.28-inch AMOLED touchscreen display and 416 x 416 resolution. The case of this smartwatch is made of stainless steel and has a swappable silicone strap. Its water-resistance rating is only 30 meters making it less suitable for swimming and other water-based activities.

“We recommend a smartwatch with at least 5ATM water resistance for swimming purposes.”

The watch uses Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 3100 with 1GB RAM and 8GB storage. That said, the available storage is about 4 GB for the user because the system OS uses the rest. Plus, it also has a built-in GPS to track your outdoor activities more accurately.

The Fossil Gen 5 watch uses a PPG Sensor for heart rate monitoring, which is more reliable and accurate than the Gen 4 watch. It does not have advanced health trackings features like SpO2 or irregular heart rate detection in Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 or Samsung Galaxy Watch 4.

I would say that the Fossil Gen 5 is a more fashion-focused smartwatch with basic health and fitness tracking features, and it does not have health tracking features such as ECG or blood oxygen level monitoring. So, if you can add a few more bucks for your next LTE smartwatch, consider Galaxy Watch 4 or TicWatch Pro 3.

Pros

• Fashion focussed smartwatch
• Built-in GPS
• 5 ATM water resistance
• Custom battery modes

Cons

• No Wear OS 3.0
• Verizon is the only supported carrier

Cellular Smartwatch Buying Guide

Ultimately, the decision to buy an LTE smartwatch should align with your lifestyle, preferences, and communication needs. Consider your usage patterns, budget, and the advantages of LTE connectivity before making a choice.

Advantages and Disadvantages of LTE Smartwatches

Advantages of LTE Smartwatches	Disadvantages of LTE Smartwatches
1. Standalone Connectivity: LTE smartwatches can make and receive calls, send messages, and access data independently without the need for a paired smartphone.	1. Cost: LTE-enabled smartwatches are often more expensive upfront, and they may incur additional monthly data plan costs.
2. Freedom and Mobility: Users can stay connected even when their smartphone is not within reach, offering greater freedom and mobility during activities.	2. Battery Life: LTE connectivity can drain the battery faster, leading to shorter usage time between charges compared to non-LTE models.
3. Emergency Features: LTE smartwatches often come with emergency features like SOS calls and location sharing, providing added safety and peace of mind.	3. Limited Compatibility: LTE smartwatches may have limited compatibility with certain carriers or regions, restricting their usability.
4. Notifications: Users can receive calls, messages, and app notifications directly on the smartwatch, reducing the need to check their smartphone constantly.	4. Additional Data Costs: Adding an LTE smartwatch to your mobile plan can result in extra data charges, potentially increasing your monthly expenses.
5. Independent Music Streaming: Some LTE smartwatches allow users to stream music directly from the watch, even without a phone nearby.	5. Size and Design: LTE components can make smartwatches slightly bulkier, impacting the design and comfort.
6. GPS and Navigation: LTE-enabled GPS provides more accurate location tracking and navigation capabilities.	6. Limited Use Cases: The need for LTE connectivity may not be essential for all users, making it an unnecessary feature for some.
7. Travel and International Use: LTE smartwatches can maintain connectivity in foreign countries, reducing the reliance on local SIM cards or Wi-Fi networks.	7. Potential Privacy Concerns: Always-on connectivity may raise privacy concerns for some users, as location and usage data can be tracked more readily.

Do you really need an LTE Smartwatch?

Who Needs an LTE Smartwatch	Who May Not Need an LTE Smartwatch
1. Active Individuals: People who engage in outdoor activities, fitness routines, or sports can benefit from LTE connectivity to stay connected while on the move.	1. Minimal Phone Use: If you rarely use your smartphone for calls, messages, or data, an LTE smartwatch may be unnecessary.
2. Frequent Travelers: Travelers who frequently visit areas with limited Wi-Fi or require international connectivity may find LTE smartwatches invaluable.	2. Budget-Conscious Users: LTE smartwatches often come with additional costs for both the device and data plans, which may not align with budget priorities.
3. Safety Concerns: Individuals with safety concerns or those who want access to emergency features like SOS calls and location sharing may find LTE smartwatches reassuring.	3. Occasional Usage: If you only need connectivity in emergency situations or for occasional convenience, an LTE smartwatch might be excessive.
4. Fitness Enthusiasts: Fitness and health-conscious individuals can benefit from the real-time tracking, music streaming, and emergency features offered by LTE smartwatches during workouts.	4. Wi-Fi Availability: In areas with reliable Wi-Fi coverage, a non-LTE smartwatch can handle most communication needs.
5. Multitaskers: People who want to stay connected without constantly checking their smartphones, such as professionals in meetings or on the go, can benefit from LTE smartwatches.	5. Limited Compatibility: Users in regions or with carriers that do not support LTE connectivity may find LTE smartwatches less useful.
6. Music Lovers: Those who enjoy streaming music directly from their smartwatch without carrying a phone may appreciate LTE-enabled music streaming.	6. Minimal Data Needs: If your data usage primarily involves basic tasks like checking messages and emails, you may not require LTE connectivity.

Final Words

So here is our list of the best smartwatch that makes calls without a phone. If you are an Apple Watch user and looking for an affordable watch, then the Apple Watch Series 9 or SE model would be a better choice. It offers advanced features like an always-on display and other health tracking features such as ECG, Emergency SOS, and much more.

Apple Watch Series 3 or Apple Watch SE is worth buying if you want a cheaper option. Even though the Apple Watch SE price is a bit high, some advanced features of the Apple Watch Series 6 are incorporated. So you can enjoy some features of the Apple Watch Series 6 by paying almost $200 less.

If you are an Android user, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic LTE is the best standalone smartwatch for you. It comes with a hell of a lot of features and functionalities along with LTE. If you want a cheaper option, you can choose the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 with Built-in GPS and LT, or go for the Apple watch SE if you are an iPhone user.

I hope this article on the best smartwatch that can answer calls and texts without a phone helps you choose the right smartwatch with the LTE/4G feature. If you enjoyed my article, then please feel free to comment below. It would be great to comment if you choose a smartwatch that you buy or plan to buy in the comment section.