When I first heard that something like a smart water bottle exists, I was shocked. It was the last item in my head that I would say could be “smart”. But over the years, they’ve become quite popular as users appreciate their unique features such as tracking your water intake, LED sensors or even companion apps.
So here we are, living in a world where even our hydration habits get a tech upgrade. Obviously, these bottles are not cheap as the word “smart” usually implies higher prices in any product. But they are still cheaper than the best hydrogen water bottles, which is yet another kind of tech bottles that I reviewed lately.
In this guide, I shortlisted two best smart water bottles you can currently get your hands on and I personally tested: Hidrate Spark PRO and WaterH.
They both received the exact same score of 4.44/5 across 9 categories, so either one could work just as well for you.
Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Hidrate Spark PRO | WaterH Boost | |
|---|---|---|
 |  | |
Insulation | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
Durability | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
Lid/Cap Usability | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Portability | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
Leakproofness | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Ease of Cleaning | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
Versatility | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
Price/Value Ratio | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
Companion App | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ |
Final Score | 4.44/5 | 4.44/5 |
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Hidrate Spark PRO Smart Bottle
KEY FEATURES (21 oz)
PROS
CONS
If you want a water bottle packed with features, this one has plenty to offer.
It’s not just backed by Apple. It’s actually sold by them. And honestly, it feels like something Apple would sell. Sleek, slim, and just really nice to look at.
The packaging is clean and well put together. Inside, you get everything you need: instructions, a USB-A charger, and some spare O-rings, which is always a nice bonus.
Since this is a smart bottle, you’d expect some impressive tech, and it delivers. Hidrate Spark uses its SipSense technology to track every sip you take. It does this by weighing the bottle and syncing with the app via Bluetooth to keep track of how much you’ve had to drink. And to be fair, it’s surprisingly accurate.
Now let’s talk about design. It looks great, no question about it. I know aesthetics are subjective, but just look at that glowing light. My favorite color is the gold one.
One of the best things about HidrateSpark is that you can make it glow whenever you want, unlike the WaterH bottle. If you ever want to show off the glow to someone, you can actually do that. The light also turns on whenever it reminds you to take a sip. And I have to say, it looks really good. Sometimes I find myself waiting for the reminder just so I can see it light up.
Just imagine the look on your friends’ or family’s faces when they see your HidrateSpark PRO bottle in action. It definitely has that wow factor.
The HidrateSpark app is a pleasure to use, and I have to say, it feels a step ahead of the WaterH app. There’s just more to do, more ways to interact, and an overall smoother experience.
Connecting the bottle to the app takes seconds (seriously, it could not be easier). Once you’re in, you’re welcomed by a clean, well-designed dashboard showing your progress toward today’s hydration goal.
You can either set this goal yourself or let the app calculate it based on your weight and height. Mine is set to 70 oz. Another useful feature is manual tracking. If you drink from another bottle, you can log it here so everything still counts toward your goal.
Now for the fun part. The app has a trophy system, kind of like achievements in a video game. You complete “missions” by hitting different water intake milestones. One of them is literally “drink enough water to fill a milk jug”. Simple, but oddly motivating.
There’s also a social tab where you can add friends, join hydration challenges, and see a leaderboard. If competing over water intake is your thing, you’ll love this.
Then there’s the “Bottles” tab, which is packed with options. You can snooze your bottle’s glow reminders, tweak the color settings (nine free options), and customize when and how it reminds you to drink.
Honestly, more settings than I expected for a water bottle.
The last tab is all about your profile. Here, you can sync with Google Fit, Fitbit, Garmin, and Health Mate, or even set a wallpaper. Yes, a wallpaper. Is it necessary? Not really. Do I still like having the option? Absolutely.
I actually enjoy checking in on the app just for fun, but make sure you keep it updated. I once had my bottle disconnect randomly, and it turned out I was running an old version of the app. A quick update fixed everything.
Portability-wise, I have the 21 oz. version, and it fits perfectly in my car’s cup holder. I don’t own the larger 32 oz. version, but based on its size, I’d guess fitting it in a standard cup holder could be tricky.
My only real complaint when it comes to portability is the handle or lack of one. Instead of a proper handle, there’s just a tiny strap that barely fits one finger. When the bottle is empty, it’s fine, but when it’s full, your finger starts feeling it. Not a huge deal, but worth mentioning.
Hidrate Spark offers two lid types: a spout lid and a straw lid. I went with the spout lid, and I don’t regret it. It’s actually pretty nice to drink from. The only slight issue is that every time I take a sip, the lid presses against my nose. Not a dealbreaker, just something I noticed.
What I really love, though, is the button lock. This thing is seriously leakproof. You can lock the button so the lid won’t pop open, which is a small but reassuring feature. I’ve always appreciated bottles with solid locking mechanisms, and I’m glad Hidrate Spark included one here.
The durability of this bottle is pretty solid. It is definitely not the toughest one I own, but that is kind of expected with a smart bottle. All that built-in tech naturally makes it a bit more delicate than a regular reusable bottle.
At first, I was a little worried about the tech being packed into the bottom. If you drop the bottle, that seems like the worst possible place for sensitive electronics. And yeah, that thought still crosses my mind sometimes.
But to be fair, the sensor puck is well-protected. It is not just sitting out in the open, waiting to break. It has a locking mechanism and is tucked inside, so it is not something that will pop out easily. I would not call it fragile, just something to be aware of.
HidrateSpark PRO is made of stainless steel, which gives it a bit of insulation. It is not meant to keep coffee hot, but for cold drinks, it does the job. I tested it at room temperature, and after 24 hours, my water was still cold-ish, even without ice. Not bad at all.
Potential Downsides
For me, the biggest downside is that the Hidrate Spark cannot handle hot liquids, and it does limit how versatile the bottle is.
I live in a place where winters can be brutal, and having hot tea or coffee on hand is always a plus. Unfortunately, that is not an option with this bottle.
I actually learned this the hard way. One day, I completely forgot it was not designed for hot drinks and poured in some boiling water before sealing the lid. Let’s just say that was a mistake. The lid nearly popped off from the pressure, and I had a brief moment of panic. So yeah, I would not recommend trying that!
Charging this bottle is easy and fairly quick, but there is a catch. It uses a proprietary Hidrate Spark charger with USB-A, which means yet another cable to add to the growing collection.
Personally, I wish it used USB-C. It is way more universal, and if you lose it, chances are you already have a few spares lying around.
Another minor annoyance is that the charging cable does not hold very securely. It is easy to unplug by accident, so you might want to make sure it is in a stable spot while charging.
On the bright side, it does not take long to power up. Mine charges in about an hour, which keeps it running for 10 to 15 days. That is about as fast as my phone, so I cannot really complain.
HidrateSpark is also not dishwasher safe, which is something to keep in mind. The sensor puck can only be cleaned with a damp cloth and should never be submerged in water.
If you hate hand-washing bottles, there is a small workaround. You can put the bottle and lid in the dishwasher, but only if you have an unpainted version like I do. If yours is painted, the high heat and water pressure might ruin the exterior.
I’ve already raved about how beautiful the companion app is, and it truly is a standout. But, there’s a catch: Hidrate Spark has introduced something called Hidrate Spark Premium, which is basically a paywall that locks some of the fun features behind it.
Here’s what you get for paying:
- Glow Studio, where you can go wild customizing your bottle and experimenting with colors
- 30+ wallpapers for your app dashboard
- Hydration Score to track how well you’re doing
- 40+ drink types to track and see how they impact your hydration
It’s $1.99 a month or $14.99 a year. It’s not a fortune, but I already spent $70 on a bottle, and now I need to pay more for extra features?
We are definitely living in the age of subscriptions.
I’m actually thinking of splurging on the yearly plan myself, mostly because I’m obsessed with the Glow Studio. The idea of customizing the colors is a little too tempting to pass up.
Another thing I found a bit odd is that Hidrate Spark only offers a 100-day warranty. That’s the shortest warranty period I’ve come across for any water bottle that actually offers one. Just seems a little on the short side, considering the price.
Speaking of price, the $70 I paid for my 21 oz. bottle does feel a bit expensive when you compare it to options like the WaterH.
Verdict
Hidrate Spark definitely has no shortage of features. I feel like I could write a few more articles about all the cool things it can do.
If you’re a gadget lover, dropping $70 on the 21 oz. size won’t sting too much, especially considering how much fun you’ll have using it.
From reminders to the glowing lights, to all the customization options, the nice lid, and even decent insulation, it’s just a bottle that keeps bringing me back for more.
I’d definitely recommend it if you’re not too concerned about the price and you’re looking for something fun, beautiful, and a little bit different.
WaterH Boost 32 oz. Smart Bottle
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
WaterH Boost might share the same 4.44 out of 5 rating as the Hidrate Spark, but they’re pretty different bottles. I like them both about the same, and I end up using them interchangeably depending on the day.
The real standout of this bottle is its affordability, especially in the smart water bottle market. I picked up the 32 oz size for $55, which, for what you get, is a pretty amazing deal.
Plus, WaterH offers a full 1-year warranty, definitely better than the 100-day warranty that Hidrate Spark gives. Between the price and warranty, WaterH definitely shines in the price-to-value ratio category.
So, what do you actually get for that price?
For starters, you get a pretty solidly built bottle. Sure, it’s a smart bottle, so it’s not exactly what I’d call durable, but it’s still pretty sturdy. It feels like the walls are much thicker than Hidrate Spark’s. You notice the difference as soon as you hold both bottles.
That’s probably because WaterH uses a triple-wall design, which isn’t something you see too often. Not only does it make the bottle more durable, but it also does wonders for insulation. And this is where WaterH really impresses.
I tested it at room temperature, and it kept my water cold for a full 24 hours. But the real surprise was its heat retention. I filled it with water at 204°F (about 95°C), and after 17 hours, it was still a very warm 123°F (about 51°C).
I wasn’t expecting that kind of performance, but I was definitely impressed.
But that’s not the end of surprises, because WaterH is actually waterproof. I know, it sounds a bit strange to say a water bottle is waterproof, but it matters.
All the tech in this bottle is tucked away in the lid (unlike the Hidrate Spark, where all the tech is at the bottom). If you look closely at the back of the lid, you’ll notice something surprising: the USB port isn’t covered.
At first, I thought I’d lost a cover somewhere, but no, that’s how it’s supposed to be. The bottle is designed to be waterproof, so it doesn’t need a cover for the port.
In fact, it has an IPX7 rating, which means it can be submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes without getting damaged. That’s pretty comforting when you’re using it around water. No need to stress about the tech inside, unlike with the Hidrate Spark.
The lid is pretty unique in its own right. The spout has a cool shape that fits comfortably to your lips when you drink. I quite enjoy sipping from it, and I’m betting you’ll like it too.
It also has a big handle that fits up to three fingers (always a nice little bonus for portability). But what really stands out is how you can use the handle to cover the button, which automatically opens the lid.
This is a small but underrated feature, and it makes the bottle completely leakproof. If you’ve used the Owala FreeSip, you’ll probably recognize this feature and appreciate it just as much.
Underneath the button, there’s a little LED display that responds to your touch, and I think it’s a cute feature. It doesn’t do a whole lot, but it shows you how much water is in the bottle and how much battery is left.
It even reacts when you pick the bottle up or move it, greeting you with a friendly “Hi”. It’s like my bottle is trying to form a connection with me, and I’m lowkey getting attached!
Beneath the display, there’s a small light ring that makes the bottle look just a bit fancier. It’s definitely not as bold as what you’d find on the Hidrate Spark, but it’s nice.
It only glows when it wants to remind you it’s time to drink, and it sticks to just one color (blue). No flashy options here, but even with its simplicity, it still adds a sleek touch that I kind of like.
As for the overall design of the bottle, it’s pretty unique. The front has these twill grooves that not only look interesting but also provide a really solid grip. It’s a small detail, but it makes a difference.
A good thing is that WaterH charges with USB-C. There’s a cable included in the package, but if you happen to misplace it, you can probably grab another one lying around at home.
Charging it is super easy, too. I usually just plug it into my laptop while I’m working, and it’s kind of funny to see the look on people’s faces when they notice I’m charging a water bottle (imagine their surprise!).
As for the battery, it can last up to two weeks on a single charge, but if you’re using it every day, I’d say you’re looking at about 6-7 days before needing to plug it in again.
Potential Downsides
I do have one main gripe with this bottle, and that’s the companion app. It just feels a bit underwhelming compared to what you get with Hidrate Spark.
It’s not bad, but it’s kind of boring. It’s as if the creators didn’t really know what to add to make it exciting.
You basically get a dashboard with your daily hydration progress, some stats for daily, monthly, and yearly goals, a handful of tips, and your profile. It does have Fitbit integration, but that’s about it.
The app feels pretty basic, and while it does its job, I’d love to see the WaterH team roll out some new features down the line to spice it up a bit. Fingers crossed!
And one last thing: technically, the WaterH bottle is dishwasher-safe, but I wouldn’t recommend tossing it in there. Sure, it’s waterproof, but if you want to keep the electronics completely safe and the exterior looking good for as long as possible, handwashing is the way to go.
Thankfully, cleaning it is quick and painless. Just treat it like any other stainless steel bottle and give it a quick rinse daily. The lid is a bit different, though. There’s a hidden gasket inside that you’ll want to clean from time to time, but don’t worry, they made it easy. There’s a small rubber tab attached, so you won’t have to pry it out like you’re cracking a safe.
Verdict
If you’re looking for a bottle that combines durability, great insulation, and some smart features, then WaterH is definitely worth considering.
I’ve grown to really like it, and in some areas, I’d say it even outshines Hidrate Spark. That said, it doesn’t quite match the sleek, aesthetic vibe of Hidrate Spark, though, of course, that’s all subjective.
Overall, though, I love using this bottle. It’s practical, efficient, and definitely gets the job done.
What Is a Smart Bottle and What Does It Do?
A smart bottle is essentially a water bottle that’s been given a tech upgrade. Imagine your regular water bottle but with features that track your hydration levels, remind you to drink water, and even sync with an app on your phone.
It keeps you on top of your hydration game in a way that’s practical and, dare I say, a bit fun. Whether you need constant reminders or just want to track your intake, a smart bottle takes the guesswork out of staying hydrated.
How to Use a Smart Water Bottle?
Using a smart water bottle may sound straightforward but you might need a little nudge to make the most of it. Let’s break it down:
- First, charge your bottle. These high-tech hydration helpers typically come with a USB charger. Plug it in and let it juice up.
- Next, download the companion app. Most smart bottles sync with an app on your phone. Do we enjoy adding yet another app to our already crowded screen? Not really. But the benefits outweigh the clutter. The app usually helps you set your hydration goals and tracks your intake.
- Once you’ve got the app set up, fill your bottle with water. Your bottle will be ready to remind you to sip away throughout the day and you’ll get notifications or see lights flashing, making it hard to ignore your thirst.
- Now comes the fun part – actually using it. Keep it by your side, whether you’re at the office, the gym, or lounging at home. The bottle will tally every sip you take, and the app will keep you updated. It’s oddly satisfying to see your progress. Almost like a video game, but with water instead of dragons.
- Don’t forget to clean it regularly. Just because it’s smart doesn’t mean it’s self-cleaning. A good rinse and the occasional deep clean will do wonders.
Using a smart bottle is not rocket science, but getting into the groove can take a bit of practice. Before you know it, you’ll be sipping smarter.
Are Smart Bottles Worth It?
Smart water bottles aren’t for everyone. But if you’re a gadget lover, investing in one is absolutely worth it. They’re functional, stylish and modern, adding a touch of tech-savvy flair to your desk or gym bag.
I can’t count how many times people have asked me about mine. It’s like carrying a conversation starter around with you.
It’s hard to imagine what water bottles we will have in the near future if today’s models are so innovative. Who knows, maybe our next water bottles will talk back or even make coffee. But for now, these smart bottles do a fantastic job of keeping us hydrated and stylish all at once!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is Special About Smart Water Bottles?
What I find the most special about these bottles is that they often sync with companion apps, which offer all sorts of neat features. Imagine setting daily hydration goals and getting gentle nudges if you’re falling behind. It’s strangely comforting. Think of it as your phone’s way of saying, “Hey, drink up!”
In short, they turn the simple act of drinking water into something fun and engaging.
Why Are Smart Water Bottles Important?
These bottles are important because they track how much you drink. For someone like me, who often realizes I haven’t had water all day only when my mouth feels like a desert, this feature is terrific!
You might be surprised at how this simple function can make a big difference in your daily routine.
Should You Get a Smart Water Bottle?
If you need that extra push to stay hydrated, appreciate a bit of tech in your daily life, and enjoy turning heads with your fancy gear, then absolutely, you should get this bottle! It’s practical, fun, and a little bit of a status symbol.
Jeremiah Kowalski
Hey there! I’m Jeremiah, the guy behind WaterBottleAdvisor.com. I used to have a bad habit of guzzling sodas while working remotely, but thanks to reusable water bottles, I’ve turned my hydration game around. After testing over 50 bottles, I’m here to help you find the perfect one to make staying hydrated a joy, not a chore. When I’m not reviewing bottles, you’ll likely find me scaling steep trails around the world, trusty water bottle in hand.
