Which Timex Smartwatch Is Actually Worth Buying? Our Guide to Their Current Range
Timex's current smartwatch range offers three distinct models at competitive prices, but the Active+ variants deliver significantly better value than the Classic Square—especially if you prioritise battery life and everyday wearability over a larger display.
Why Timex?
Timex has manufactured watches since 1854 and built its reputation on reliable, affordable timepieces that don't require premium pricing. The brand entered the smartwatch market relatively recently, positioning the iConnect range as accessible alternatives to Apple Watch and Fitbit at a fraction of the cost. What sets Timex apart is their focus on battery longevity and classic watch aesthetics rather than chasing every feature—many competitors' smartwatches drain in 1-2 days, whereas Timex prioritises multi-day battery life. The iConnect range is designed for people who want fitness tracking and notifications without sacrificing wrist comfort or constantly hunting for a charger.
Top Picks
Timex iConnect Active+ 45mm Rose-gold/Pink Silicone Strap Smart Watch — £23.75
Best for budget-conscious fitness trackers. This is the entry point to Timex's smartwatch ecosystem and represents exceptional value. The 45mm case suits larger wrists, the silicone strap is durable for workouts, and you're getting heart rate monitoring plus Bluetooth calling at under £24. The main trade-off is a smaller display compared to the Classic Square, but for casual step counting and call notifications, it's genuinely difficult to beat at this price.
Timex iConnect Active+ Rose-gold Tone Bezel And Caseback With Expansion Band Smartwatch — £39.08
Best for all-day wear and dressier occasions. This variant swaps the silicone strap for an expansion band (metal mesh), making it more suitable for office environments or evening wear. The rose-gold bezel and caseback feel more premium than the silicone model, and the expansion band adjusts more precisely than a standard strap. If you want a smartwatch that transitions from gym to desk without looking sporty, this is the step up worth considering.
iConnect By Timex Classic Square Smartwatch With Heart Rate & Two-way Bluetooth Calling 40mm – Silver-tone With White Strap — £68.07
Best for those who want a larger screen. At 40mm with a square dial, this model offers the biggest display in Timex's current range—useful for reading messages and health metrics without constant squinting. The silver-tone finish and white strap have a cleaner, more formal appearance than the rose-gold models. However, at nearly triple the price of the 45mm Active+, you're primarily paying for screen real estate and aesthetics rather than additional performance features. The heart rate monitoring and Bluetooth calling are identical to the cheaper models.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |-------|-------|----------|------------------| | iConnect Active+ 45mm Silicone | £23.75 | Budget fitness tracking | Most affordable entry point | | iConnect Active+ Expansion Band | £39.08 | Dressier everyday wear | Metal mesh strap for office use | | iConnect Classic Square 40mm | £68.07 | Larger display preference | Bigger square screen for readability |
What to Look For
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Strap material and adjustability: Silicone straps (Active+ 45mm) are best for workouts and water exposure; expansion bands (Active+ metal) offer micro-adjustments for consistent all-day comfort. Consider your daily routine—gym-heavy weeks favour silicone, office-based weeks favour metal mesh.
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Case size and wrist fit: The 45mm Active+ suits wrists 7+ inches in circumference; the 40mm Classic Square works for smaller-to-average wrists. A case that's too large looks ungainly and catches on clothing; too small and the display becomes hard to read during workouts.
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Battery longevity: All three models promise multi-day battery life (exact duration isn't published by Timex), but expansion band models may drain slightly faster due to always-on connectivity. If you travel frequently or dislike charging, any Timex smartwatch outlasts mainstream competitors by 2-3 days.
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Heart rate accuracy: All three models include heart rate monitoring, but optical sensors (which Timex uses) are most accurate during steady-state cardio and less reliable during high-impact activities. If you run or cycle frequently, cross-reference readings with a chest strap occasionally.
The Bottom Line
The Timex iConnect Active+ 45mm at £23.75 is the best value if you're starting your smartwatch journey—it covers the essentials (heart rate, notifications, Bluetooth calling) without unnecessary cost. Choose the £39.08 expansion band model if you need a watch that works in professional settings. Only consider the £68.07 Classic Square if screen size is critical and you prioritise aesthetics over performance, as the features don't justify the price premium.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Timex good value for money?
Yes—Timex smartwatches undercut Apple Watch and Fitbit by 60-70% whilst delivering core fitness tracking and notifications. The trade-off is fewer advanced features (no built-in GPS, limited app ecosystem) and less frequent software updates, but for basic heart rate monitoring and call alerts, Timex represents genuine value at these price points.
Do Timex smartwatches have GPS?
No, the iConnect range lacks built-in GPS and relies on your phone's location data for route tracking. This keeps costs low and improves battery life, but you'll need your phone with you during runs to map your route. If GPS-independent tracking is essential, consider Fitbit or Garmin instead.
How long does the battery last on Timex smartwatches?
Timex advertises multi-day battery life but doesn't specify exact hours in their consumer materials. Based on user reports and competitive positioning, expect 5-7 days of mixed use (tracking, notifications, Bluetooth on) before needing a charge. Heavy smartwatch use or frequent Bluetooth calling may reduce this to 3-4 days.
Can you swim with a Timex smartwatch?
All iConnect models are water-resistant to 50 meters (5 ATM), which covers swimming and snorkelling but not diving. You can wear them during lap swimming, showers, and water sports without concern. Timex doesn't explicitly confirm saltwater resistance, so rinse thoroughly after beach use to prevent corrosion.
