For techies who want to wear their data on their sleeve, Consumer Reports tested six new smart watches.
They all pair easily to your mobile device via Bluetooth and alert you to calls and messages. But, to go beyond the basics, Consumer Reports suggested considering a watch that uses the Android Wear operating system.
"Android Wear is a real game-changer for smart watches," said Consumer Reports' Carol Mangis. "Not only can you use voice commands to do searches, but it also pushes relevant information to the watch. Let's say you have a calendar appointment you set up; it will tell you what time to leave and how long it will take to get there."
The Samsung Gear Live sells for $200. The easy-to-use, color touch screen displays stock prices, weather and even your heart rate.
The $230 LG G Watch is another good Android choice, according to Consumer Reports. It's just as intuitive, and the screen is very scratch resistant.
For the iOS user, Mangis said there was no obvious choice.
"They're harder to operate because they are push button instead of touch screen, and they're a little harder to see."
She said a lot of consumers are anxious for the Apple Watch to hit the market. It is expected early next year for about $350.