Get one that works best with your other digital portable devices such as a smart phone and a tablet. So, Apple for Apple, Android for Android

I have had three generations of the Samsung Gear and the subsequent Galaxy watches. Am wearing the Galaxy 4 currently for daily use, and have a Galaxy 6 in reserve because I like the featured rotating bezel on each of their faces. Rotate the bezel to get to apps and information/data.

I have no experience with Garmin or with Apple, so I can't in good conscience comment about them at all.

My Apple Watch works fine for depicting rhythms...I could tell physically when I went into AF (nuts!) and used it to confirm before calling my EP.

The technologies offered by these smart watches are probably similar and do a good job. Another option is to get a stand-alone device like those sold by Kardia that connects to your smartphone.

My Apple Watch notified me I had a-fib, I never felt anything! My cardiologist said his practice has seen the Apple Watch alert correctly with HR, A-Fib, etc & they recommend it. I wear it all day & all night then charge it while getting dressed in the morning. My watch is a series 4, but the newer watch holds a charge longer. The watch pairs with my iPhone. The free APP called CardioBot is also good in monitoring your heart.

Hello @tomsmayoconnect - I combined your discussion with an existing discussion on smartwatches titled, "Smart watch to monitor heart" - https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/apple-watch/.

Many members have discussed Apple watches as well as a few others. You can read through some of their experiences.

@gloaming brings up a good point. There are a lot of good devices out there now, but pairing devices up by brand and your smart phone can help make the initial process of setting them up much, much more simple.

@tomsmayoconnect - what are you hoping to monitor for in particular?