Best Budget Smartwatches 2024 Best & Affordable Tech For You

Smartwatches have evolved from luxury gadgets to must-have daily companions for tracking health, staying connected, and enhancing productivity. But let’s face it—most of us aren’t looking to drop hundreds of dollars on a high-end model. That’s where budget smartwatches come in. In 2024, you can snag a feature-packed device that suits your needs without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for fitness tracking, notifications, or long battery life, the best budget smartwatches offer exceptional value. Let’s explore how to pick one and dive into the top contenders for 2024.

What to Look for in a Budget Smartwatch

When searching for a budget-friendly smartwatch, it’s important to keep a few essentials in mind. While affordability is key, you don’t want to sacrifice important features.

1. Display

A vibrant, easy-to-read display can make or break your smartwatch experience. Many budget models now offer bright AMOLED or LCD screens that rival high-end devices.

2. Battery Life

Battery life is another crucial factor. The best budget smartwatches offer at least 5-10 days of use on a single charge, helping you avoid the dreaded mid-day power drop.

3. Fitness Tracking

Smartwatches are ideal for keeping tabs on your health. Look for a device with robust fitness features like heart rate monitoring, step counting, and sleep tracking. Many budget options even offer blood oxygen sensors and stress tracking.

4. Compatibility

Compatibility with your smartphone is a must. Ensure the watch works seamlessly with your iPhone or Android device. Some budget watches may be Android-exclusive, while others support both platforms.

5. Price

Price is always a deciding factor. In 2024, you’ll find great options for under $100, and even some feature-rich models hovering around $50.

Top Budget Smartwatches of 2024

We’ve scoured the market to find the best affordable smartwatches that deliver impressive functionality without breaking the bank. Here’s our top list:

#1. Amazfit Bip U Pro

Amazfit Bip U Pro continues to lead the charge in budget smartwatches. Priced under $70, it offers a surprising mix of features, including built-in GPS, heart rate and SpO2 monitoring, and a 9-day battery life. The 1.43-inch TFT display ensures bright colors and easy navigation.

• Pros: Incredible battery life, GPS, fitness tracking
• Cons: Plastic build, no NFC
• Why It’s Great: Perfect for fitness enthusiasts who need GPS tracking without a premium price tag.

#2. Samsung Galaxy Fit 2

Samsung’s Galaxy Fit 2 is a sleek fitness band that packs a punch. With an AMOLED display, water resistance, and excellent battery life (up to 15 days!), this is a perfect companion for anyone who leads an active lifestyle. It might lack advanced features like GPS, but it nails the essentials.

• Pros: Stunning AMOLED screen, long battery life
• Cons: No built-in GPS, limited smartwatch functionality
• Ideal Users: Fitness lovers who value simplicity and style.

#3. Fitbit Inspire 3

The Fitbit Inspire 3 is Fitbit’s entry-level fitness tracker that doubles as a basic smartwatch. It offers advanced health metrics, including heart rate and sleep monitoring, and access to the Fitbit ecosystem. At around $100, it’s slightly pricier, but Fitbit’s proven accuracy and insights make it worth the investment.

• Pros: Accurate fitness tracking, great sleep insights
• Cons: Small screen, lacks GPS
• Value for Money: Best for people serious about health tracking who don’t need smartwatch frills.

#4. Huawei Watch Fit

If you’re all about style, the Huawei Watch Fit is the way to go. It has a rectangular AMOLED display that is not just gorgeous but also functional. It offers SpO2 monitoring, 10-day battery life, and comprehensive fitness tracking modes.

• Pros: Gorgeous display, long battery life
• Cons: Limited app support
• Key Selling Points: For those who want a smartwatch that looks good and performs well, especially for casual fitness tracking.

#5. TicWatch GTH

Mobvoi’s TicWatch GTH is another solid contender in the budget smartwatch space. Its square design offers something different in the crowd of round-faced watches. The standout feature is skin temperature monitoring—a rare find in this price range. The watch is also waterproof and offers up to 10 days of battery life.

• Pros: Unique temperature monitoring, affordable
• Cons: Basic software, no GPS
• Unique Aspects: Ideal for those looking for health insights beyond the usual heart rate and sleep data.

#6. Garmin Venu Sq

Garmin’s Venu Sq is one of the pricier budget smartwatches but still a strong contender. It stands out with its high-quality fitness tracking and 6-day battery life. It supports GPS, making it a great option for runners on a budget.

• Pros: GPS, solid fitness tracking
• Cons: Chunky design, limited app selection
• Who Should Buy It: Best for fitness enthusiasts who prioritize performance and data accuracy.

Smartwatch vs. Fitness Tracker: What’s the Difference?

It’s easy to confuse fitness trackers and smartwatches, but they cater to slightly different needs. Smartwatches typically offer broader functionality, including notifications, apps, and even payment options. Fitness trackers are more focused on health metrics. If you want a blend of both at an affordable price, many budget smartwatches can give you the best of both worlds.

Are Budget Smartwatches Reliable?

Absolutely! While they may not have the premium materials or advanced features of flagship models, budget smartwatches in 2024 are durable and capable. They cover all the essentials—like fitness tracking, notifications, and long battery life—while trimming away extras you might not need.

How to Choose the Best Budget Smartwatch for You

Choosing the right smartwatch depends on your lifestyle. If you’re a fitness junkie, prioritize heart rate and sleep tracking. Are you constantly on the go? Battery life and water resistance will be key. Make sure your watch is compatible with your smartphone ecosystem, and don’t forget to factor in your personal style.

Budget Smartwatch Brands to Watch in 2024

Emerging brands like Amazfit, Mobvoi, and even Xiaomi are shaking up the budget smartwatch world with innovative, affordable options. Meanwhile, established players like Fitbit and Garmin continue to offer entry-level models that push the envelope in terms of features and design.

Conclusion

In 2024, you no longer need to spend a fortune to enjoy the benefits of a smartwatch. From fitness tracking to smart notifications and long battery life, today’s budget models offer everything you need for a fraction of the cost of premium devices. Whether you opt for the feature-packed Amazfit Bip U Pro or the stylish Huawei Watch Fit, there’s a budget-friendly option for everyone.

FAQs: Best Budget Smartwatches 2024

1. What is the best affordable smartwatch for fitness tracking?
The Amazfit Bip U Pro offers excellent fitness tracking features, including GPS, at a budget-friendly price.

2. Can budget smartwatches track sleep accurately?
Yes, most budget smartwatches, including the Fitbit Inspire 3, offer reliable sleep tracking.

3. Do budget smartwatches offer good battery life?
Absolutely! Devices like the Samsung Galaxy Fit 2 can last up to 15 days on a single charge.

4. Are cheaper smartwatches compatible with iPhones?
Yes, many budget smartwatches are compatible with both iPhones and Android devices, though you should check compatibility before purchasing.

5. How do budget smartwatches compare to expensive ones?
While they may lack some premium features, budget smartwatches offer solid performance in fitness tracking, battery life, and essential smartwatch functions at a fraction of the cost.