Activity tracking smartwatches have proliferated so much lately there's now one to suit all but the most determined couch potato. I tested new models that sit at either end of the spectrum in terms of features, price and style: the Australian-designed V Fitness by Laser, and the Fenix 5S from America's Garmin.

The latter is a prime example of how wearable tech is becoming so integrated into daily life that quality materials and design can be as important as its functionality. There are several versions of the Fenix 5S available for those who will pay more to up the style stakes, including Sapphire editions with everything from rose-gold tinted steel to suede wristbands.

Both pack plenty inside, monitoring heart rate, steps, sleep patterns and more specific information during workouts such as distance travelled, as well as calculating calories burned and alerting users when goals are met. They deliver more when connected to their free apps, such as long-term graphical data, generous lists of activity types, and linked-device notifications including for email and social media. Good for about a week of normal use, batteries are fully recharged within a few hours via supplied USB connectors, and wristbands are readily interchangeable.

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