Steer clear of the Fossil Gen 6 Smartwatch, even if it's discounted to $80.
Caveat Emptor: The $80 Fossil Gen 6 Smartwatch Sale
Boy, oh boy! The latest fire sale from Fossil has got the netizens buzzing, and it seems like the Gen 6 smartwatch has sold out in no time since 9to5Mac reported on it. But joy beware, folks! Let's remind ourselves that sweet deals often come with a catch. Unless you've got an hankering for an antiquated timepiece to add to your collectibles, a deal like the scorching $80 Fossil Gen 6 smartwatch could leave you with a stinker, and not in a charming, vintage way.
Fossil has been attempting to jettison this forgettable smartwatch for quite some time now. The process started back in January 2024 when Fossil publicly declared the shuttering of its wearable software division, a full nine years after they'd inked a partnership with Android's wearable operating system. Despite the curtain call, Fossil vowed to uphold commitments to its devices—a testament to questionable credibility.
At first glance, the Fossil Gen 6 smartwatch may appear like a worthy fashion statement with its sleek 41mm stainless steel case and 1.28-inch AMOLED display. However, beneath this sophisticated exterior, the Gen 6 leaves much to be desired. It first appeared on the scene in 2021, asking for $300, and elicited mediocre reviews due to its languid software, pathetic battery life, and lackluster health features. Add on to that the fact that Google's overhaul of the watch OS was looming on the horizon, and the Gen 6 was all but doomed to a slow death.
Nonsense about Fossil smartwatches being better sellers when they're on sale has been making the rounds for years. But take a spin through the depths of Reddit, and you'll see plenty of threads where users warn against purchasing the Fossil Gen 6, even with its alluring price tag.
If you've got your heart set on a smartwatch that can handle notifications and music playback, you'd be wise to explore cheaper options, especially second-hand hardware. For instance, the first-generation Pixel Watch has been spotted on eBay anywhere between $60 to $140, and it's a far better representation of what Wear OS can do.
Archaeologists of Android history might fancy something more vintage than the Fossil Gen 6. In that case, consider unearthing an LG Watch. These remnants from Android's square smartwatch dreams offer a fascinating glimpse into the past of the wearable tech industry.
The Fossil Gen 6 Smartwatch Breakdown
Pros:
- A sleek 41mm stainless steel case lends a touch of elegance.
- The 1.28-inch AMOLED display provides decent visual quality.
- The Snapdragon Wear 4100+ processor ensures smooth performance.
- Automatic sleep tracking and SpO2 sensors for blood oxygen level monitoring are included.
- Fast charging allows for quick top-ups.
Cons:
- The battery life only lasts about 24 hours, resulting in frequent charging woes.
- Limited compatibility with iOS may cause some features to underperform.
- No built-in GPS, making tracking routes a challenge for runners and cyclists.
Affordable Alternatives
Finding a smartwatch under $140 that rivals the Fossil Gen 6 can prove challenging. Opt for Amazfit watches, Xiaomi Mi Band Series, or refurbished older models instead. If stretching your budget a bit or grazing the economical smartwatch market suits you, consider alternatives like the Amazfit Bip series or the Fossil Gen 5 for a more satisfying smartwatch experience.
- Despite the recent $80 sale, the Fossil Gen 6 smartwatch, first introduced in 2021, has had a lackluster performance in the past due to slow software, poor battery life, and unimpressive health features.
- Even with its alluring price tag, the Fossil Gen 6 continues to receive negative reviews on platforms like Reddit, with users warning against its purchase.
- If one is in search of a smartwatch that can handle notifications and music playback, it would be wise to explore cheaper options, such as the first-generation Pixel Watch or Amazfit watches, which can be found second-hand for as low as $60.
- For those who have a fondness for Android history, some might prefer vintage smartwatches such as the LG Watch, remnants from Android's early wearable technology era.
