How to Secure Your Smartwatch Payments

Paying with a Smartwatch: A Complete Guide

With all the features of a smart device strapped to your wrist, smartwatches have become a massive asset to people looking to simplify their lives with convenient access to music, voice and text commands, and even paying for your morning coffee. Smartwatches have come a long way since the first device hit the scene in the early part of the 2010s. One of the features that have risen in popularity is contactless payment.

Most major smartwatch manufacturers will allow you to use contactless payment. This will depend on the make and model of your watch. For most, with just a simple setup, you can start leaving your wallet at home and start using this convenient feature.

Contactless payment is easy to use and easy to set up. It allows you to store the information for credit and debit cards safely onboard your smartwatchs hardware. While this does not completely make your wallet obsolete, (we dont have electronic IDs yet), the feature is excellent if you are on the go and dont want to worry about pulling out your cards. The technology that allows for this to work is reliable and already built into most phones and smartwatches (how to answer your phone with your smartwatch in our guide).

The technology that contactless payment is based on is called NFC, or Near Field Communication. This telecommunication protocol allows for communication between two electronic devices at a short distance. This distance is small at around 1.5 inches.More than just phones and smartwatches use NFC based technology (more on whats possible with this technology in our guide). NFC is also used for electronic identification, keycards, and quick setup Bluetooth devices.

NFC is relatively reliable and safe. Because the range for connection is so small, it makes taking advantage of the protocol difficult. This is why it is generally safe to use it with highly sensitive data like card information and electronic identification. Most major smartwatch manufacturers will have NFC available on their devices. Here are a few to look out for that allow for contactless payment (all 3 of the links take you to Amazon):

• Apple Watch Series 6 Apples latest addition to its smartwatch line utilizes Apple Pay for contactless payments.
• Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 Samsungs take on the smartwatch comes packed with functionality, including NFC for payments through Samsung Pay.
• Garmin Venu Smartwatch Besides being known for creating things like GPS systems, Garmin has produced some very well thought out and functional watches, including this model that features Garmin Pay. Its clear they are starting to get more serious about activity trackers and other smart devices.

Using contactless payment is a breeze once you have everything set up. For most smartwatch interfaces, you will need to have a smartphone connected to add your card. Once you do though, the data should be stored on your watch. Accessing the contactless payment system is simple and easy, usually consisting of finding the app on your watch.

Once you have everything loaded up, all youll need to do is place your watch face close to the contactless payment logo on the credit card of the point of sale system. Keep in mind that while this feature is very popular, not all stores will have them. Look for either an Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, or Contactless Payment logo at the register.

Setting Up Smartwatch Payments on your Smartphone

Smartwatch payments are not all that different from each other, but there are some little subtleties in the way that the companies go about it. For that reason, weve included a short tutorial for some of the most popular brands in the sub-sections below. All you need is your smartphone and the smart watch to get started!

To set up a smartwatch with a contactless payment application, you just have to go into the appropriate application on your smartphone and then add and verify your credit/debit card. If youre using a debit card, youll have to use a PIN. Check out the guide below for each individual company.

Apple Pay:

1. On your phone, go to the Apple Watch App.
2. Find the Apple Pay section and hit add card.
3. Follow along with the steps to add your card to the wallet system. Currently, you can add up to 12 cards.
4. Once you have completed the setup, hit next, and your information will be verified with your bank or card issuer.
5. Once your card has been verified, it should be ready for use.
6. To use your card with your watch, double click the side button.
7. Hold the display up to the card reader.
8. Wait until you feel a gentle tap.

Google Pay:

1. On your watch, navigate toward the Google Pay App.
2. You should see a button that says get started, click it.
3. If you havent set up a screen lock, you will need to for this function.
4. Follow the instructions and enter your cards information.
5. Your card should now be loaded onto your watch.
6. To make a payment find the Google Pay app again.
7. Hold your watch over the card reader until you feel the vibration.
8. You may be asked to choose debit or credit; select credit.
9. If you are using a debit card, you may still need to use your PIN.

Samsung Pay:

1. Find the Samsung Pay app on your Samsung smartphone.
2. You will need to set up a PIN.
3. Find the blue button on the screen that says add a new card.
4. Tap add credit/debit card.
5. Follow on-screen instructions.
6. Through the Galaxy Wearable app, open Samsung Pay. This should load the app on your watch.
7. Press and hold the top back button for a few seconds.
8. When the app opens, swipe left to view basic instructions.
9. Since we already imported a card onto the app on our smartphone, you can either add a new card or use the import card feature.
10. Once everything is set up, just hold down the Back button again to gain access to your cards.
11. Now hold the watch over the NFC reader on the payment system and wait for the alert.

Fitbit Pay:

1. Open the Fitbit app on your smartphone.
2. Under the devices tab, find the watch you want to add payments to.
3. There should be a wallet tile. Click it.
4. Tap get started and follow instructions to add a new card.
5. If using Fitbit Pay for the first time, you will be prompted to set up a PIN.
6. Once the card has been added, follow instructions to enable notifications.
7. To make a payment, press and hold the left button on your smartwatch.
8. You should see the payment screen pop-up.
9. Depending on your device, you may need to enter your PIN.
10. Hold the watch face near the terminal to make a payment.

Benefits of Paying With Your Smartwatch

As you can imagine, having a contactless payment setup on your watch can make shopping much more convenient. Not only do you not have to worry about fumbling with your wallet, but there are also some other reasons you may not think of:

• Limiting the Spread of Germs and Viruses Since you are not touching anything other than your watch, you are mitigating some of the risks of coming in contact with public surfaces like a credit card reader.
• Preventing Wear of Your Credit Card Over time, the EMV chips in your card can be worn down by friction. By using your watch, you are taking this stress away completely.
• Increased Security While it may seem like using contactless payment would be riskier, it is, in fact, safer in a lot of ways. Not only are the payments secure, but it also mitigates the risk of losing your card or having it stolen.
• Increased Convenience The main benefit, though, is convenience. When you are out and about and want to grab some groceries, you can do so without needing to reach for your wallet or phone.

Just tap your watch. It makes shopping easier and faster.Smartwatches have become a staple piece for a lot of electronic enthusiasts and everyday consumers alike. They have added a ton of convenience to our lives and improved the mobility of smartphones and their technology. Contactless payments are just another great feature that enhances our daily lives.

Best 10 Smartwatches With NFC in 2024 For Contactless Payment

NFC Payment systems are quite popular these days because they are more convenient than regular payment systems.

On top of that, they are also more robust and secure because they use advanced validation systems which allow you to make the payment safely without exposing your banking details.

If you are also impressed by NFC Payment systems and want to get a smartwatch with a built-in NFC Payment feature, this guide is for you.

Also, To make your contactless payment safer, make sure to read my guide: Security & Privacy Threats To NFC In 2024 | How To Make It Safer?

In this WearToTrack guide, Ill share the top 10 smartwatches with NFC Payment in 2024. So, lets get into it.

#Overview

How To Choose The Right Smartwatch With NFC Payment?

In 2023, we have tons of great feature-rich smartwatches available that come with built-in NFC Payment systems but the question is: how to choose the right one? In this section, Ill share the things which you should consider when buying a smartwatch with NFC Payment.

NFC-Supported Regions & Banks:

The main thing you should consider is which NFC contactless payment system you want. Luckily, all major smartwatch companies have their own NFC Payment systems.

Apple Watch has Apple Pay, Samsung has Samsung Pay, Garmin has Garmin Pay, Google has Google Pay and Fitbit has Fitbit Pay. When it comes to availability, most of them work almost everywhere but systems such as Apple Pay are available in selected regions such as US, and Europe.

So, before you choose your next smartwatch with NFC Payment, please make sure that its respective payment system is available in your country.

1. Apple Pay is available in the US, Europe, South Africa, and other major regions. You can check the complete list of supported regions here.
2. Fitbit Pay is available in all major regions including the US, UK, UAE, and other countries. You can check the complete list of supported regions here.
3. Google Pay is available in the US, UK, Australia, Austria, Germany, and other major regions. Please check the complete list of supported regions here.
4. Samsung Pay is currently available in limited countries including the US, Canada, UAE, Sweden, and Switzerland. You can check the complete list of supported countries here.
5. Garmin Pay is the default NFC payment system on Garmin smartwatches and its available in countries such as the US, UK, Canada, Greece, and UAE. You can check the complete list of supported countries and banks here.

Phone Compatibility:

Before you choose your NFC Smartwatch, its important you also make sure that your Phone is compatible with your smartwatch.

Apple Watches (Apple Pay) only works with iPhones and you cant use them on Android.

Similarly, Wear OS (Google Pay) smartwatches cant be connected to iPhones and they will only work with Android Smartphones.

So, before you make up your mind, ensure that your selected smartwatch and NFC Payment system are compatible with your smartphone.

Top 10 Smartwatches With NFC Payment Feature

NFC Payment methods are so popular that half of the US population uses these payment systems and this number is destined to grow more in the coming years.

As the popularity of contactless payment systems is on the rise, we are seeing more and more smartwatches coming with built-in NFC Payment systems.

So, Ive done my research and after extensive research, Ive picked the 10 best smartwatches with NFC Payments in 2024.I havent added Smartwatches from Xiaomi And Amazfit since I have dedicated a different post for Xiaomi And Amazfit Watches With NFC In 2024. So If you are A Xiaomi and Amazfit fan, definitely check this post out.

1. Apple Watch Series 8

Product information:

Apple Pay is one of the most popular and secure contactless payment systems and its available exclusively on Apple devices including Apple Watch. The Apple Watch 8 is the newest smartwatch by Apple and its arguably one of the best smartwatches with an NFC Payment feature in 2023.

Apple Pay works flawlessly on Apple Watch Series 8 and you can easily make payments on supported terminals using your smartwatch. All you will have to do is to place your Apple Watch near the NFC Terminal and enter the passcode to approve the transaction.

In terms of features, Apple Watch Series 8 is as good as any modern smartwatch out there. From ECG to crash detection, Apple Watch 8 is equipped with all the great features which you find on modern smartwatches these days.

So, if you are an iPhone user and you want a smartwatch with a robust NFC payment system, you cant go wrong with the Apple Watch Series 8.

2. Samsung Galaxy Watch 5

Product information:

Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is the latest offering by Samsung in the Samsung Galaxy Watch lineup and its also the best smartwatch by Samsung you can buy in 2023.

Like other Samsung smartwatches, Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 comes with a built-in Samsung Pay system which means that you can use your Galaxy Watch 5 for contactless payments.

Since Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is a Wear OS 3 Smartwatch, it also comes with support for Google Pay and its one of the very few smartwatches that comes with built-in support for two contactless payment systems.

In terms of features, Galaxy Watch 5 is as good as Apple Watch 8 and any other latest smartwatches available in 2023. It offers features such as ECG, Fall Detection, Activity monitoring, sleep tracking, stress tracking, workout tracking, advanced Bio Sensor, and heart rate monitoring.

So, if you are looking for a smartwatch with two NFC Payment methods, you should consider Samsung Galaxy Watch 5.

3. Fitbit Sense 2

Product information:

Fitbit Sense 2 is another popular smartwatch that comes with a built-in NFC Payment system. In Fitbit Sense 2, you get the companys very own Fitbit Pay system which you can use to make purchases using Sense 2.

When it comes to features, Fitbit Sense 2 is better than any other Fitbit out there. It comes with advanced sensors which can keep track of your skin temperature. Also, it uses the same sensors for advanced stress monitoring which will help you keep track of your stress levels.

Sense 2 also comes with other advanced health and fitness features such as ECG, Active Zone Minutes, fall detection, heart-rate monitoring, and over 40 exercise modes.

So, if you are looking for an advanced Fitbit smartwatch with NFC Payments support and great features, you cant go wrong with Fitbit Sense 2.

4. Fitbit Versa 4

Product information:

If you dont want to spend a lot of money and you want a good Fitbit smartwatch under $200 with Fitbit Pay, you can consider Versa 4.

In terms of design, the Fitbit Versa 4 is identical to Sense 2 but on the inside, some advanced features such as a skin temperature sensor and ECG are missing.

However, it comes with all the other regular features such as heart-rate monitoring, workout tracking, sleep tracking, stress tracking, and a step counter.

So, if you are on a budget and you want a good Fitbit Smartwatch with an NFC Payment feature, you should consider Fitbit Versa 4.

5. Apple Watch Ultra

Product information:

Apple Watch Ultra is the newest member of the Apple Watch family and as the name suggests, this Apple Watch comes with an ultra set of features. From build quality to the features, Apple has ramped up everything to make the Apple Watch more desirable for premium users.

Like other Apple Watches, Apple Watch Ultra also comes with built-in support for Apple Pay which means that you can use your Apple Watch Ultra to pay for your purchases in various countries.

In terms of build quality, the Apple Watch Ultra is more durable than any other Apple Watch out there. It comes with a durable titanium case and sapphire crystal to protect the display.

On the inside, you get a wide range of special features along with regular features such as ECG, dual speakers, dual GPS Antenna, Siren, ultra-long battery life of 36 hours, and many other great features.

So, if you have a good budget and you want a premium Apple Watch with tons of features, you should consider Apple Watch Ultra.

6. Google Pixel Watch

Product information:

Google is certainly late to the smartwatch party but it has finally arrived with the Google Pixel Watch. The Pixel Watch has been launched recently but it has become instantly popular due to its minimalistic design and modern features.

When it comes to design, Pixel Watch comes with a traditional circular design but Google has made it more sleek and modern. On the inside, you get all the good health and fitness features such as ECG, heart-rate monitoring, AFib detection, Emergency SOS, and other great features.

Since Pixel Watch is a Wear OS smartwatch, it also comes with built-in support for the Google Pay system which you can use to pay for your shopping at supported NFC terminals. So, if you are interested in getting a modern Wear OS smartwatch with NFC Payments support, you should consider Google Pixel Watch.

7. Fossil Gen 6

Product information:

Fossil Gen 6 is one of the best smartwatches with NFC Payment systems in 2023. Its one of the best smartwatches by Fossil and as it comes with Wear OS, it supports Google Pay by default. You can easily set up Google Pay on Fossil Gen 6 and start paying for your shopping using it.

The smartwatch also offers a lot of great features including an SPO2 Sensor, activity tracking, sleep tracking, workout monitoring, heart-rate monitoring, step counter, and cardio tracking.

The only major feature which is missing in the Fossil Gen 6 is the ECG which is available in all major smartwatches in this price range. So, if its not a deal breaker for you, you can consider Fossil Gen 6 because its an excellent smartwatch.

8. Garmin Venu 2

Product information:

Garmin Venu 2 is arguably one of the best smartwatches by Garmin in 2023 and if you are interested in buying a Garmin watch, you should consider this one.

Its a very well-rounded Garmin smartwatch that comes with a good set of great features. It comes with a Garmin Pay NFC Payment system which will allow you to pay conveniently for your shopping.

Also, it comes with features such as stress monitoring, Pulse Ox, heart-rate monitoring respiration rate, abnormal heart-rate alerts, sleep tracking, hydration, and health snapshot.

In terms of design, Garmin Venu 2 is really good. It comes with a circular design that features a stainless steel bezel with an all-black body. The lineup also comes with Garmin Venu 2 Plus and Garmin 2S smartwatches and both of them are really good. However, in my opinion, Garmin Venu 2 is well-rounded and offers the best value for money.

9. Garmin Forerunner 55

Product information:

If you have an active lifestyle and you prefer smartwatches with sporty looks, you can consider Garmin Forerunner 55. This smartwatch is designed for runners and it comes with dedicated features which you can use to accurately track your running sessions.

Garmin Forerunner 55 comes with a sporty design and its case is made up of fiber-reinforced polymer which makes it very light yet durable.

On the inside, you get the features such as Garmin Pay which you can use for contactless payments using it. Along with Garmin Pay, you get features such as PacePro which you can use to plan your running sessions and it will provide guidance.

Also, it comes with other regular features including intensity minutes, respiration tracking, workout tracking, heart-rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and more.

Overall, if you want a lightweight Garmin smartwatch with Garmin Pay, you cant go wrong with Garmin Forerunner 55.

10. Fitbit Charge 5

Product information:

Fitbit Charge 5 is technically not a smartwatch but its better than many expensive smartwatches out there. Its one of the few fitness trackers out there that comes with built-in support for the NFC Payment system and it comes with Fitbit Pay which you can use for your contactless payments.

In terms of features, Fitbit Charge 5 is as good as modern smartwatches because it comes with advanced features. In the Fitbit Charge 5, you get the EDA Sensor which will provide advanced sleep and stress tracking. Also, it comes with ECG, SPO2 Tracking, cardio fitness score, a variety of exercise modes, and more.

If you dont want to spend your money on a smartwatch and want an advanced fitness tracker with NFC Payment support, you should consider the Fitbit Charge 5.

Pros and Cons of using Smartwatch with NFC for payments

While there are definite advantages to using a smartwatch with NFC for contactless payments, it is also important to consider the potential drawbacks. In this section, we will explore the pros and cons of utilizing a smartwatch with NFC for contactless payments.

Pros:

1. Convenience and Ease of Use: One of the biggest advantages of using a smartwatch with NFC for contactless payments is the convenience it offers. With a simple tap of your wrist, you can complete transactions without the need to reach for your wallet or smartphone. This streamlined process can save time, especially in situations where speed is crucial, such as during rush hour or when youre in a hurry.
2. Increased Security: Smartwatches with NFC payments typically employ advanced security measures, such as tokenization and encryption, to safeguard your financial information. These features help protect against unauthorized access and reduce the risk of fraud compared to traditional payment methods like cash or credit cards. Additionally, the need for physical contact between the smartwatch and the payment terminal adds an extra layer of security, as it reduces the chances of someone intercepting your payment information.
3. Wide Acceptance: Contactless payment technology, including NFC, has gained widespread acceptance in many retail stores, restaurants, and public transportation systems. Using a smartwatch with NFC enables you to make payments at a variety of establishments, making it a versatile and convenient payment option.
4. Tracking and Budgeting: Some smartwatches with NFC payment capabilities offer additional features that help users track their expenses and budget more effectively. These watches can provide detailed transaction histories and spending summaries, allowing you to monitor your financial activities easily.

Cons:

1. Limited Compatibility: While contactless payment technology has gained popularity, not all establishments and payment terminals support NFC payments. Some retailers may not have the necessary infrastructure to accept payments from smartwatches, which limits the places where you can use this feature. It is important to ensure NFC payment support is available at your preferred locations before relying solely on your smartwatch for payments.
2. Battery Life: Utilizing NFC for contactless payments can consume a significant amount of battery power on your smartwatch. The constant communication required during payment transactions may drain the battery faster, which can be inconvenient if you rely heavily on your smartwatch for other functions throughout the day. It is advisable to consider battery life when choosing a smartwatch with NFC payment capability.
3. Potential Technical Issues: As with any technology, smartwatches with NFC payments may encounter technical issues or glitches. Connectivity problems, software bugs, or compatibility conflicts with payment terminals could disrupt the payment process, leading to frustration or delays during transactions.
4. Security Concerns: While NFC payments offer enhanced security compared to traditional payment methods, there is still a small risk of data breaches or hacking attempts. Although the chances of such incidents are relatively low, it is important to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions, such as enabling security features and regularly updating your smartwatchs firmware.

Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]

How To Check If NFC Is Working On My Smartwatch?

There are many ways you can use to check if NFC is working on your smartwatch. You can use apps such as NFC Smart Q App or Trigger for this purpose. If you are interested, please check this guide where Ive shared various methods which you can use to check if NFC is working on your Smartwatch.

Do NFC Payments Work On Smartwatches Without Smartphones?

You will initially need your smartphone to set up the NFC Payment system on your smartwatch. But, once you are done with the initial setup, you wont need your smartphone and you will be able to make payments directly from your smartwatch without your smartphone.

Does Google Pay Have Any Transaction Limits?

Yes, Google Pay comes with restrictions on the max amount which you can pay in a single transaction. If your identity is verified, its set to $5000 and if your identity is not verified, it is set to $700. Also, note that some banks also independently place limits on transactions via contactless payment systems. So, Id recommend that you contact your bank as well to know if they have set any limits.

Are NFC Payments Via Smartwatches Secure?

Yes, NFC Payments via contactless payment methods such as Fitbit Pay, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, and Garmin Pay are very secure. These payment systems use advanced tokenization systems to ensure that your bank details including your card number are never shared with the merchant. In this way, your bank details stay private and secure.

Does Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Have Google Pay?

Since Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is a Wear OS 3 Smartwatch, you can use Google Pay on it. If you want to use Google Pay on your Galaxy Watch 5, you will need to install the Google Wallet app on your smartphone and set it up to start using it for payments.

Does Fitbit Sense 2 Have Google Pay?

No, Google Pay is not available for Fitbit smartwatches including Fitbit Sense 2. However, it comes with Fitbit Pay which is as good as Google Pay and you can use it for contactless payments.

Conclusion

NFC Payment is undoubtedly the future of payment and its getting very popular quickly. In this guide, Ive shared the top 10 smartwatches that come with NFC Payment support and they come with built-in NFC contactless payment systems which you can use for payments.

utilizing a smartwatch with NFC for contactless payments provides several advantages, including convenience, security, and widespread acceptance.

However, it is crucial to consider the limited compatibility, battery life implications, potential technical issues, and security concerns associated with this technology.

By weighing these pros and cons, you can make an informed decision on whether a smartwatch with NFC payment capability aligns with your lifestyle and payment needs.

I hope that you found this guide useful and if you have any questions or recommendations, please let me know in the comments.

Also, if you have any concerns about the security of these NFC payment systems or want to know how secure they are, Id recommend you to check this guide where Ive compared the security of major contactless payment systems such as Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay.

As a professional trainer and a gadget lover, Ive spent a lot of money and time buying wearable activity trackers, smartwatches, and gadgets, and checking them out. My site is focused on helping you with your activity tracking and smart technology journey. I try to provide the most helpful updated content on this subject. Hopefully, you will love my blogs and be a regular around here.