Medical Guardian MGMove Smartwatch Review 2025

Are you looking for a medical alert device that does not look like one? The Medical Guardian MGMove Smartwatch combines emergency protection with modern technology. This device helps seniors stay safe while keeping their independence.

Many people worry about wearing bulky medical alert systems. The MGMove solves this problem. It looks like a regular smartwatch. You get 24/7 emergency monitoring. You also get GPS tracking and health features. This review covers everything you need to know about the MGMove in 2025.

Key Takeaways:

• Fast Emergency Response: The MGMove connects you to trained professionals in seconds. You press one button to get help. The watch features two-way voice communication so you can talk directly with response agents.
• Comprehensive GPS Tracking: Your location gets tracked in real-time. Family members can see where you are through the caregiver app. This feature works nationwide with 4G cellular coverage.
• Water Resistant Design: The device carries IP67 certification. You can wear it in the shower. You should towel-dry it after getting wet. Do not submerge it in water.
• All-Day Battery Life: The watch runs for 18 to 24 hours on a single charge. Charging takes 1 to 2 hours. You get a charging cradle with your purchase.
• Optional Fall Detection: You can add fall detection for $10 per month. The system uses advanced sensors to detect falls. It can tell the difference between soft falls and hard impacts.
• Monthly Subscription Required: The device costs $199.95 upfront. Monthly monitoring starts at $39.95. This price includes 24/7 professional monitoring and GPS tracking.

What Is the Medical Guardian MGMove Smartwatch

The MGMove is a wearable medical alert system. Medical Guardian designed it for active seniors. The watch looks modern and stylish. You would not guess it is a medical device. The black touchscreen display shows time, date, and weather. You access all features through simple swipes and taps.

The device weighs just a few ounces. It sits comfortably on your wrist. The adjustable band fits most wrist sizes. You can wear it all day without discomfort. The watch face measures about 1.5 inches across. This size makes it easy to read.

Medical Guardian launched this smartwatch in 2022. They have improved it since then. The 2025 version offers better battery performance and faster response times. Many users call it the best medical alert watch available. The company serves over 500,000 customers across America.

Emergency Response Features That Save Lives

The MGMove puts safety first. You get two ways to call for help. The red SOS button sits on the side of the watch. You press and hold it for three seconds. This action connects you to the monitoring center. A trained agent answers within seconds.

You can also swipe on the screen to send an alert. This feature helps when you want to be discreet. Both methods work the same way. The monitoring center sees your location immediately. They can hear you through the watch speaker. You hear them through the same speaker.

The two-way communication system works clearly. You do not need your phone nearby. The watch has its own cellular connection. This connection uses AT&T or Verizon networks. You get coverage in most areas of the United States.

Response agents ask about your emergency. They can call 911 if needed. They can also contact your family members. You choose these contacts when you set up the device. The system stores up to five emergency contacts.

Understanding Fall Detection Technology

Fall detection costs extra with the MGMove. This feature uses sophisticated sensors inside the watch. These sensors detect sudden movements and impacts. The system can tell when you have fallen. It sends an automatic alert to the monitoring center.

You do not need to press any buttons. The watch does the work for you. This feature helps people who cannot reach the SOS button after a fall. The technology distinguishes between soft falls and hard falls. It reduces false alarms from quick movements.

Medical Guardian charges $10 per month for fall detection. This price adds to your monthly monitoring fee. Many experts recommend this feature for people at high risk of falling. The technology has improved significantly in recent years.

Some users report occasional false alarms. These happen when you make sudden movements. The system lets you cancel false alerts. You have 30 seconds to press the cancel button. If you do not cancel, the system sends the alert.

GPS Tracking and Location Services

The MGMove tracks your location constantly. The real-time GPS system works anywhere with cellular service. Your caregivers can check your location through the companion app. They log into their account on a phone or computer.

The watch updates your location every hour automatically. This feature helps family members feel secure. They know where you are without calling. The location accuracy reaches within a few meters. This precision helps emergency responders find you quickly.

The GPS works outdoors and in most buildings. Sometimes the signal weakens in basements or parking garages. The watch stores your last known location. It updates again when it reconnects to the network.

Location tracking runs in the background. You do not need to turn it on or off. The system uses very little battery power. This efficient design helps maintain the 24-hour battery life.

Top 3 Alternatives for Medical Guardian MGMove

Battery Life and Charging Process

The MGMove battery lasts 18 to 24 hours on average. Actual battery life depends on how you use the watch. Making emergency calls drains the battery faster. Using GPS tracking constantly also affects battery life.

You charge the watch using a special cradle. The cradle plugs into a wall outlet. You place the watch on the cradle. The red SOS button should face up. A charging icon appears on the screen.

Full charging takes 1 to 2 hours. The watch shows its battery level on the screen. You see a battery icon in the corner. The icon changes color as the battery drains. Red means you need to charge soon.

Medical Guardian recommends charging the watch every night. This habit ensures you always have power. The watch reminds you when the battery gets low. You receive a notification on the screen. The monitoring center also gets notified.

Some competing devices offer longer battery life. The Apple Watch requires daily charging too. The Bay Alarm SOS Smartwatch lasts only 6 to 8 hours. The MGMove provides average battery performance for a medical alert smartwatch.

Water Resistance and Durability

The MGMove carries IP67 water resistance certification. This rating means it protects against water splashes and brief immersion. You can wear it in the shower safely. You can also wear it in the rain.

Medical Guardian recommends towel-drying the watch after it gets wet. Do not swim with the watch. Do not submerge it in bathtubs or pools. The IP67 rating does not cover full submersion.

The watch withstands daily wear and tear well. The screen resists minor scratches. The band material feels durable. Some users report wearing their MGMove for years without problems.

The touchscreen responds to wet fingers. This feature helps when you need emergency help in the shower. Many falls happen in bathrooms. The water resistance makes this device practical for real-life use.

Step Counter and Fitness Tracking

The MGMove includes a built-in step counter. This feature tracks your daily activity. The watch counts your steps automatically. You see your step count on the screen. You can set daily step goals.

The step counter helps you stay active. Many seniors find it motivating. You can track your progress over time. The companion app shows your step history. Family members can view this information too.

The accuracy compares well to other fitness trackers. The watch uses motion sensors to count steps. It filters out arm movements that are not steps. Some users report slight overcounting during certain activities.

You cannot track other exercises like swimming or cycling. The MGMove focuses on walking and general movement. This simplicity makes it easy to use. You do not need to select workout modes or enter data manually.

Companion App and Caregiver Features

Medical Guardian offers the OnGuard caregiver app. This app lets family members monitor the watch wearer. Caregivers download the app on their phones. They create an account and link to the MGMove user.

The app shows the wearer’s location on a map. It displays the current battery level. Caregivers see daily step counts. They receive notifications about emergency alerts. The app provides peace of mind for worried family members.

The Social Circle Apps Package adds more features. This upgrade lets you send text messages through the watch. You speak into the watch. It converts your voice to text. The message appears in the caregiver app.

Caregivers can send messages back. The watch reads these messages aloud. This feature helps people who have trouble using regular phones. The voice-to-text technology works well in most situations.

Setting up the app takes just a few minutes. The process includes creating emergency contact lists. You can add up to five contacts. You choose who receives notifications about emergencies.

Medication and Calendar Reminders

The MGMove helps you remember important tasks. The medication reminder feature alerts you when to take pills. You set up reminders through the companion website. You enter the medication name and time.

The watch vibrates and displays a message at the scheduled time. You see the medication name on the screen. This feature helps prevent missed doses. Many seniors take multiple medications daily. These reminders reduce the risk of mistakes.

The calendar reminder feature works similarly. You can set reminders for appointments. You get alerts for doctor visits or family events. The watch displays the event name and time.

Setting up reminders requires using a computer or smartphone. You cannot create reminders directly on the watch. This limitation frustrates some users. However, most people set up reminders once and adjust them rarely.

Weather Updates and Additional Apps

The MGMove displays current weather information. You see the temperature and conditions. You can check the forecast for the day. This feature helps you dress appropriately. It also warns you about extreme weather.

The weather app updates automatically. It uses your GPS location. You see weather for wherever you are. This feature proves useful when traveling. You do not need to check your phone for weather updates.

The watch includes other useful apps. You see the date and time on the main screen. A clock app shows different time zones. These features make the MGMove feel like a regular smartwatch.

The device does not support third-party apps. You cannot install additional software. This limitation keeps the interface simple. It also prevents technical problems. The watch focuses on essential features for seniors.

Setup Process and User Experience

Setting up the MGMove takes about 15 to 30 minutes. The watch arrives partially charged. You place it on the charging cradle first. This action powers on the device. The startup screen appears automatically.

You need to activate your subscription before using emergency features. Medical Guardian sends activation instructions by email. You follow the steps to connect the watch to their monitoring center. You enter your personal information and emergency contacts.

The touchscreen interface uses large icons. You swipe left and right to access different apps. You tap icons to open them. The watch responds quickly to touches. Most seniors find the interface intuitive and easy to learn.

Some users report difficulty reading the screen in bright sunlight. The display brightness adjusts automatically. However, outdoor visibility could be better. Indoor use presents no problems.

Medical Guardian provides excellent customer support during setup. You can call their support line. Representatives walk you through each step. They answer questions patiently. Many reviewers praise this assistance.

Monthly Plans and Pricing Structure

The MGMove costs $199.95 for the device. You pay this fee once when you order. Some retailers offer discounts. Amazon sometimes lists lower prices.

The monthly monitoring fee starts at $39.95. This plan includes 24/7 professional monitoring. You get GPS tracking and step counting. The monitoring center responds to all emergency alerts.

Fall detection costs an additional $10 per month. This optional feature brings your total to $49.95 monthly. Many users consider fall detection worth the extra cost.

The Social Circle Apps Package adds messaging features. Medical Guardian charges extra for this upgrade. The exact price varies by promotion. This package also includes additional caregiver app features.

Medical Guardian requires a subscription for all services. The watch does not work without an active plan. You cannot use it as a regular fitness tracker alone. This requirement differs from Apple Watch medical alert features.

Annual payment plans offer discounts compared to monthly billing. You save money by paying for a full year upfront. Medical Guardian sometimes runs promotions with additional savings.

Pros and Cons of the MGMove

Advantages:

The MGMove offers fast emergency response times. Test calls connect within 10 seconds on average. The monitoring center staff receives high praise. The watch looks modern and stylish. It does not scream “medical alert device.” The two-way communication works clearly. You can talk and hear well through the watch. GPS tracking provides accurate location information. Family members appreciate the caregiver app. The setup process remains straightforward. Customer service helps with any issues.

Disadvantages:

The battery life lasts only one day. You must charge the watch nightly. This requirement can be inconvenient. Fall detection costs extra money. It should be included in the base price. Some users report occasional technical glitches. The watch sometimes freezes or restarts. The screen visibility suffers in bright sunlight. Reading outdoors can be challenging. You cannot use the watch without a subscription. It becomes useless if you cancel monitoring. The device works only in the United States. International travel makes it non-functional.

How the MGMove Compares to Competitors

The Bay Alarm SOS Smartwatch offers similar features. It includes fall detection at no extra charge. However, its battery lasts only 6 to 8 hours. This short battery life creates problems for all-day wear.

The Apple Watch provides medical alert capabilities. It offers many more apps and features. The Apple Watch requires pairing with an iPhone. It also needs a subscription to a medical alert service. The total cost often exceeds the MGMove.

The Lively Wearable 2 costs less upfront. Its monthly fees start lower too. However, it lacks the touchscreen interface. The Lively device looks more like a traditional medical alert pendant.

The Medical Alert Smartwatch by MobileHelp fully waterproofs. You can swim with it. Its battery lasts up to five days. However, some users report slower response times compared to Medical Guardian.

The MGMove balances features and price well. It provides solid performance in the most important areas. Emergency response and GPS tracking work reliably. The 24-hour battery life proves adequate for most users.

Customer Service and Support Experience

Medical Guardian scores high marks for customer service. Representatives answer calls quickly. They speak clearly and patiently. Many seniors appreciate this approach. Support staff help with technical problems. They walk you through troubleshooting steps.

The company offers multiple ways to contact support. You can call a toll-free number. You can email through the website. You can chat online during business hours. Response times stay quick across all channels.

Some users report difficulty canceling service. Medical Guardian requires written cancellation notices. You must return the device within 30 days for a refund. This policy frustrates some customers. However, it remains standard in the medical alert industry.

The company provides extensive online resources. The website includes user manuals and video tutorials. You can find answers to common questions. The support section covers troubleshooting and maintenance.

Medical Guardian has been in business since 2005. The company maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. They have received accreditation from several industry organizations. This track record demonstrates reliability.

Who Should Buy the MGMove Smartwatch

The MGMove works best for active seniors who want protection. If you spend time outside your home, this device helps. The GPS tracking provides security during walks or errands. The watch supports an independent lifestyle.

People at risk of falling benefit from this device. The optional fall detection adds a safety layer. You get help even if you cannot press the button. This feature proves valuable for those with balance problems.

The MGMove suits seniors comfortable with technology. You need basic touchscreen skills. The interface remains simple. However, it requires more tech knowledge than a basic pendant.

Family members appreciate the peace of mind. The caregiver app lets them check on loved ones. They see location and activity information. This visibility reduces worry about elderly parents or relatives.

The watch may not suit people with severe cognitive decline. Those with advanced dementia might forget to wear it. They might not understand how to use emergency features. Simpler devices might work better in these cases.

Maintenance and Long Term Use

The MGMove requires minimal maintenance. You should clean it regularly with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Wipe the screen gently to remove fingerprints and smudges.

The charging contacts need occasional cleaning. Use a dry cloth to remove any buildup. Dirty contacts can slow charging or prevent it entirely. This maintenance takes just seconds.

The watch band should be adjusted for comfort. It should not be too tight or too loose. A proper fit ensures accurate step counting. It also prevents the watch from sliding around.

Medical Guardian recommends testing the emergency button monthly. This test ensures the system works properly. You press the SOS button and speak to an agent. Tell them you are testing the device. They confirm everything functions correctly.

Software updates happen automatically. The watch downloads updates over the cellular connection. You do not need to do anything. These updates improve performance and fix bugs.

The device typically lasts several years with proper care. The battery may degrade over time. Most users report good performance for 2 to 3 years. Medical Guardian offers replacement devices if problems occur under warranty.

Technical Specifications and Details

The MGMove uses 4G LTE cellular technology. It connects to AT&T or Verizon networks. The device includes an embedded SIM card. You do not need to buy a separate cellular plan.

The watch weighs approximately 2 ounces. It measures about 1.7 inches wide and 0.5 inches thick. The screen size reaches 1.54 inches diagonally. These dimensions make it comfortable for extended wear.

The touchscreen uses LCD technology. Resolution remains sufficient for clear text and icons. Colors appear bright and vivid. The display includes automatic brightness adjustment.

The device includes multiple sensors. An accelerometer tracks movement and counts steps. A gyroscope helps detect falls. GPS and cellular triangulation provide location data.

The internal storage holds contacts and settings. You cannot store photos or music. The watch focuses on medical alert functions. This focused design keeps operation simple and reliable.

The operating system is proprietary to Medical Guardian. The company designed it specifically for medical alerts. This custom software ensures stability. It also prevents compatibility issues.

Final Verdict on the Medical Guardian MGMove

The Medical Guardian MGMove delivers reliable medical alert protection. The device combines safety features with modern technology. You get fast emergency response and accurate GPS tracking. The watch looks good and functions well.

The 24-hour battery life proves adequate but not exceptional. Daily charging becomes routine quickly. The water resistance adds practical value. You can wear the watch during most daily activities.

Fall detection costs extra but provides important protection. The monthly fees remain competitive with other medical alert companies. The upfront device cost sits at the higher end. However, the quality justifies the price.

Customer service and support receive excellent ratings. Medical Guardian helps you through setup and beyond. The companion app gives caregivers peace of mind. The overall user experience stays positive.

The MGMove earns strong recommendations for active seniors. It balances independence with safety. You maintain your lifestyle while staying protected. Family members feel more secure knowing help is always available.

Consider this device if you want modern medical alert protection. The smartwatch form factor appeals to many seniors. It avoids the stigma of traditional medical alert pendants. You get comprehensive protection in an attractive package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the MGMove without a monthly subscription?

No, the MGMove requires an active monitoring subscription. The device connects to Medical Guardian’s monitoring center. This connection needs the monthly service plan. Without a subscription, the emergency button does not work. The GPS tracking and caregiver app also require active service. You cannot use the watch as a basic fitness tracker alone.

Does the MGMove work with smartphones?

Yes, the companion caregiver app works with smartphones. Caregivers install the app on iOS or Android devices. However, the watch wearer does not need a smartphone. The MGMove operates independently using cellular service. It does not pair with phones like regular smartwatches do. This independence makes it easier for seniors who do not use smartphones.

How long does the warranty last?

Medical Guardian provides a one-year limited warranty. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and hardware failures. It does not cover accidental damage or water damage beyond the IP67 rating. Extended warranty options may be available. Contact customer service for details about additional coverage. Many users report good reliability that exceeds the warranty period.

Can I wear the MGMove while swimming?

No, you should not wear the MGMove while swimming. The IP67 rating protects against water splashes and brief immersion. It is not designed for swimming or submersion. Shower use is safe. Handwashing and rain exposure cause no problems. Remove the watch before swimming in pools or natural bodies of water.

What happens if I press the emergency button accidentally?

The watch gives you time to cancel false alarms. You have 30 seconds to press the cancel button after activating an alert. If you do not cancel, the monitoring center calls you. You can explain it was an accident. No emergency services get dispatched for accidental presses that you acknowledge.

Does fall detection work automatically?

Yes, fall detection operates automatically once activated. You do not need to turn it on each time. The watch constantly monitors for falls using its sensors. If it detects a fall, it waits briefly for you to cancel. If you do not respond, it sends an alert to the monitoring center. This automatic function works 24/7.

Can I customize the watch face?

The customization options remain limited. You can adjust some settings through the watch interface. However, you cannot change the overall look significantly. The watch focuses on medical alert functions rather than personalization. This approach keeps the interface simple and consistent.

How do I add emergency contacts?

You add emergency contacts during the initial setup process. You can also modify contacts later through the companion website. Log into your Medical Guardian account online. Navigate to the contacts section. You can add up to five emergency contacts with phone numbers and relationships.

Will the MGMove work during power outages?

Yes, the MGMove continues working during power outages. The watch has its own battery that lasts 18 to 24 hours. It uses cellular service, not your home internet or power. You should keep the watch charged. Consider getting a backup charging solution if you live in an area with frequent outages.

Can I transfer my MGMove to another person?

Yes, you can transfer the device with Medical Guardian’s approval. Contact customer service to initiate a transfer. The new user must qualify for monitoring services. They will need to set up their own account. The device gets reprogrammed with the new user’s information. Some fees may apply for this transfer process.