Regret Buying: Why I Regretted My Smartwatch Purchase

When it comes to electronic gadgets, some purchases are more regrettable than others. After waiting nearly four years to finally get my first smartwatch, I regret my choice. In this article, I'll share my journey and explain why smartwatches might not be the best investment for everyone.

From PlayStation to Anki Cozmo

Before diving into the specifics of my smartwatch regret, I should mention the alternatives I considered. PlayStation and Anki Cozmo robot both entered my consideration, but for different reasons. Many people argue that PlayStation is superior, and while it's true that video games are a significant aspect of entertainment, a robot that does nothing substantial, like Anki Cozmo, can also be a disappointing purchase.

The Allure and Reality of the Fossil Gen 5 Smartwatch

The most obvious answer to what electronic gadget I regret buying is the smartwatch. I waited for almost four years before finally getting one, only to later regret it. My fascination with smartwatches started in 2016 with the Fossil Gen 1, but it remained out of my budget. Finally, in my last year of graduation in December 2019, my brother gifted me the Fossil Gen 5, which I considered one of the best smartwatches available at the time.

I was overjoyed and wore it every day for the next three months. However, as time passed, my interest in it waned. The watch's operating system (WATCH OS) was too inefficient, almost identical to other Android-based smartwatch operating systems. The battery life was terrible; it barely lasted two days without being connected to my phone. This was the best it could ever get under normal circumstances. Despite having access to many features, I only used one or two of them after two months. The Apple Watch, while impressive, suffered similar fate—amazing at first but boring after just a few months.

Why Moving Away from Smartwatches Makes Sense

Given the high cost of a smartwatch—a typical one can cost around 22,000 RMB or more—it's easy to become disenchanted very quickly. I realized that after a short period, any interest in the fancy features began to fade. Instead of upgrading every few years and spending more, it is wiser to invest in a good watch that can last for a long time, like a G-shock or a Tissot. These watches retain their value and provide a lasting feeling of quality.

If you're planning to use your smartwatch for fitness purposes, consider investing in a good fitness band for around 5,000 RMB. This choice is much more practical for most people.

Lessons from My Expensive Lesson

I learned this lesson the hard way, and I urge others not to make the same mistake. As of now, smartwatch operating systems and companies are still not mature. Waiting for another three to four years could yield better functionality and a more satisfying experience. This way, you won't regret spending a significant sum of money on a device that quickly loses its appeal.

So, if you're thinking of making a smartwatch investment, consider the alternatives and wait for the technology to mature. Your future self will thank you for the wait.