The world of health tech is evolving rapidly, and one device that has sparked serious attention is the Masimo W1 Medical Watch. Unlike typical fitness wearables, this device promises medical-grade monitoring—something that Apple, Fitbit, and Samsung claim but don’t fully deliver.
In this blog, we’ll explore the W1’s design, features, pros and cons, compare it with popular smartwatches, and break down its subscription model to see if it’s worth the investment.
📐 Design & Core Technology
At first glance, the W1 looks like a stylish smartwatch, but beneath its sleek exterior lies advanced FDA-cleared Masimo SET® pulse oximetry technology—a gold standard used in hospitals worldwide.
Unlike regular wearables that sample data intermittently, the W1 records continuous health data throughout the day, providing insights into:
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Blood oxygen (SpO₂)
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Pulse rate
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Hydration index
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Sleep Halo™ score
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Perfusion index
This is what sets the W1 apart: it’s not just tracking, it’s monitoring like a clinical device.
✅ Key Features & Benefits
1. Continuous, Precise Monitoring
The W1 takes around 70,000 measurements per day, compared to most fitness watches that only measure when prompted. This makes it extremely valuable for people with chronic health conditions, athletes, or those seeking deeper wellness tracking.
2. Telehealth Integration
Doctors and caregivers can remotely access patient data through Masimo’s SafetyNet platform. For anyone managing health conditions at home, this remote monitoring can be life-changing.
3. Advanced Sleep & Hydration Tracking
Instead of generic sleep scores, the W1 provides a Sleep Halo™, analyzing sleep patterns in more detail. The Hydration Index is another unique feature, helping users understand fluid balance—critical for athletes and patients alike.
4. Trusted Medical Accuracy
Masimo’s tech is well-documented in peer-reviewed studies for accuracy across different skin tones and in low perfusion states—something many consumer wearables struggle with.
❌ Limitations & Challenges
1. Battery Life
Because the W1 continuously tracks health data, its battery life can be shorter than traditional smartwatches. Frequent charging may frustrate heavy users.
2. Limited Smartwatch Functions
Don’t expect app stores, music controls, or advanced notification features here. Unlike the Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch, the Masimo W1 is health-first, lifestyle-second.
3. Price & Accessibility
It costs significantly more than fitness trackers, and availability may be limited in certain regions. Plus, some features are tied to subscription services, adding to long-term costs.
⚖️ Comparison: Masimo W1 vs. Apple & Fitbit
While Apple and Fitbit watches are feature-packed with apps, messaging, and fitness modes, they rely on consumer-grade sensors. The Masimo W1, by contrast, prioritizes medical-grade accuracy and continuous data.
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Apple Watch Ultra 2: Stylish, app ecosystem, and good health tracking—but not FDA-cleared for medical monitoring.
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Fitbit Sense 2: Affordable and user-friendly, but limited in clinical accuracy.
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Masimo W1: Clinical-level monitoring, unique hydration & perfusion insights—but fewer lifestyle features.
In short: if you want apps and smart features, Apple wins. If you want a wearable that your doctor might actually use for medical insights, Masimo leads.
💳 Subscription Model & Services
The Masimo W1 isn’t just a watch—it’s tied into Masimo SafetyNet, a subscription-based service that allows:
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Continuous cloud syncing
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Remote monitoring by healthcare providers
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Alerts and insights delivered to patients and caregivers
This subscription model ensures users get the latest software updates and access to premium features, but it also means you’ll need to budget for ongoing costs beyond the initial device purchase.
✨ Who Is It Best For?
The Masimo W1 is best suited for:
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Chronic health patients needing medical-grade monitoring
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Athletes who want detailed hydration and oxygen insights
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Caregivers & doctors who benefit from remote monitoring
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Tech enthusiasts interested in the future of medical wearables
It may not be the right choice for those who want apps, music, or lifestyle perks—in that case, Apple or Samsung may be better.
🛒 Where to Buy & Subscriptions
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Masimo Official Store – Full device with subscription options.
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Amazon Health Tech – Easier delivery for international buyers.
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Wellness Subscription Boxes – Some curated health-tech boxes (like FitTech Monthly) now include trials or discounts on Masimo devices.
🌟 Final Verdict
The Masimo W1 Medical Watch isn’t just another smartwatch—it’s a true medical wearable. With hospital-grade technology, unique hydration and sleep insights, and a telehealth subscription service, it bridges the gap between consumer fitness gadgets and clinical monitoring.
While it lacks the lifestyle flair of Apple or Samsung, for those who care more about health data than smart features, the W1 is one of the most innovative wearables of 2025.
