Smartwatches and Overheating: 5 Tips to Keep Your Wearables Cool

With summer heatwaves rolling in hard and fast, there's a higher risk of smartwatches overheating—some can even shut down mid-run or randomly glitch out. Between the growing number of Reddit threads and secondhand horror stories from friends whose smartwatches are dying from the heat, it’s becoming clear that high temps and high-tech don’t always mix.

From GIPHY | @kurmaz

But before you give up on your trusty tracker or fitness companion, know this: most of these heat-related issues are preventable. With the right habits and care, you can keep your wearable running smoothly even in tropical temperatures. 

Here are five practical tips to keep your smartwatch cool, safe, and functional during the hottest days. And if you’re in the market for a fresh and reliable smartwatch, such as the Apple Watch SE 2, the Next Upgrade Shop is your go-to destination!

Take It Off During High-Heat Workouts

From Xiaomi

It might feel counterintuitive to remove your smart watch during a run or cycling session, we know. That’s what you bought them for, right? However, if you’re outdoors during peak sun hours, both your skin and device are absorbing intense heat, and this combo can push wearables beyond their ideal operating temperature. If you’re determined to track a workout, try switching to a pocket-sized tracker or clip-on device, like the Running Clip for the Xiaomi Smart Band, that doesn’t bake against your skin. Or better yet, schedule your workouts early in the morning or closer to sunset. Your watch (and your body) will thank you.

Keep It Dry—Sweat Counts Too

Moisture and heat make a terrible team, especially when it comes to electronics. Even water-resistant watches can suffer from sweat buildup, especially around the sensors. Make it a habit to wipe down your smartwatch after intense activity or when you’re feeling particularly sweaty. A clean, dry watch doesn’t just perform better—it also stays cooler and lasts longer. Quick wipe, big difference.

Know Your Device’s Safe Temp Range

Most smartwatches have a recommended operating temperature range, usually listed in the manual or on the brand’s website. These limits aren’t just suggestions; exceeding them regularly can seriously damage your wearable over time. If you’re experiencing warning messages or random shutdowns, check the specs and compare them with your daily usage conditions. A little homework now can save you from early device failure. And hey, if your current watch can't take the heat, maybe it’s time for an upgrade.

Avoid Charging in Direct Sunlight

Courtesy Next Upgrade Shop

It might sound obvious, but many people leave their smart watches charging near sunny windows or in parked cars—and that’s a recipe for trouble. Charging already generates heat, and sunlight just compounds it, which can stress your battery or even trigger an automatic shutdown. Instead, charge your device in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Bonus tip: Skip overnight charging during peak summer months unless you’re sure your room stays cool. Think of it like charging your phone—cool and comfy is the way to go.

Store It Smartly When Not in Use

Leaving your smartwatch baking on a car seat or tossed on a sunlit desk is asking for trouble. Always store your wearable in a cool, shaded place when you’re not using it—especially during midday heat. Even a small drawer or zippered pouch in your bag can do the trick. Just like your phone or laptop, smart watches benefit from smart storage. Protect it like you would any other tech essential.

Stay Cool, Stay Smart—Shop Smarter with Next Upgrade Shop

Looking for a wearable that can keep up with your lifestyle and handle the heat? Check out the latest smart watches and trackers at the Next Upgrade Shop!