Eight Affordable Smartwatches: Prices, Specifications, Pros, and Cons

In recent years, the advent of smart technology has led to a surge in the popularity of smartwatches, particularly those that are budget-friendly. Affordable smartwatches combine advanced technology with functionality, making them accessible for a wider audience. These devices are not only exceptional at telling time but have transformed into essential tools for enhancing daily life.

The primary appeal of affordable smartwatches lies in their ability to provide a myriad of features without straining one’s finances. Most models offer fitness tracking capabilities, allowing users to monitor their health and physical activity effortlessly. These features can include step counting, heart rate monitoring, and even sleep tracking, which can motivate individuals to maintain an active lifestyle. Additionally, smartwatches enable users to receive notifications directly on their wrist, thus eliminating the need to frequently check smartphones, especially during busy or social situations.

The health monitoring features incorporated into budget-friendly smartwatches are also noteworthy. Many models deliver insights into various health metrics, helping users take charge of their well-being. Whether it’s reminders to move, notifications about irregular heart rates, or sleep quality analysis, these devices support health-conscious living.

Readers can expect a curated selection of eight affordable smartwatches available on Amazon, each meticulously reviewed for their prices, specifications, pros, and cons. This post aims to assist potential buyers in making informed decisions by presenting a well-rounded overview of top choices in the market. Whether one is looking for a fitness companion or a device to stay connected, this guide on affordable smartwatches is designed to meet diverse preferences and requirements.

1. Samsung Galaxy Fit 3

Price: ~$49

Click here to purchase Samsung Galaxy Fit 3.

The Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 is an affordable fitness tracker that focuses on health tracking and basic smartwatch functionality. As a successor to the Galaxy Fit 2, this device offers several improvements in terms of design, display, and performance. It targets fitness enthusiasts who need essential tracking features along with a sleek and lightweight design, all at a budget-friendly price.

Specifications:

    • Display: 1.1-inch AMOLED display, 126 x 294 pixels resolution
    • Battery: 159mAh (up to 7-10 days of battery life on typical use)
    • Operating System: Proprietary OS (compatible with Android and iOS)
    • Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.1
    • Water Resistance: 5 ATM (up to 50 meters)
    • Sensors:
      • Accelerometer
      • Gyroscope
      • Optical heart rate sensor
      • SpO2 sensor
    • Fitness and Health Tracking:
      • 24/7 heart rate monitoring
      • Sleep tracking
      • Blood oxygen (SpO2) monitoring
      • Stress monitoring
      • Step counting, calorie tracking, and distance tracking
      • Automatic workout detection for walking, running, cycling, swimming, etc.
    • Smart Features:
      • Notifications (calls, texts, app alerts)
      • Music control
      • Weather updates
      • Alarm and timer
      • Find my phone
    • Weight: 20 grams

Pros:

    • Bright and Vibrant AMOLED Display: The 1.1-inch AMOLED display on the Galaxy Fit 3 is one of its standout features. It offers bright and crisp visuals, even in direct sunlight, making it easy to view fitness stats, notifications, and other details. The 126 x 294-pixel resolution ensures text and icons are sharp, which improves the overall user experience compared to many other budget fitness trackers.

    • Slim and Lightweight Design: The Galaxy Fit 3 is designed to be slim, lightweight, and comfortable to wear all day. Weighing just around 20 grams, it is nearly unnoticeable on the wrist, making it a great companion for workouts and daily activities. Its minimalist design and variety of strap options allow it to be a stylish addition to casual and activewear.

    • Comprehensive Fitness and Health Tracking: The fitness tracking capabilities of the Galaxy Fit 3 are comprehensive for its price range. It provides 24/7 heart rate monitoring, SpO2 tracking, sleep analysis, and stress monitoring. With automatic workout detection and 90+ exercise modes, users can track a wide range of activities, from running and swimming to yoga and strength training.

    • Good Battery Life: The 159mAh battery provides 7-10 days of battery life under typical usage. While using intensive features like continuous heart rate tracking, the battery may last slightly less, but it still offers excellent longevity for a device of its size. This eliminates the need for frequent charging and makes it a convenient tracker for daily wear.

    • Water Resistance: The 5 ATM water resistance rating allows the Galaxy Fit 3 to be worn during swimming or other water-based activities. It can track swim metrics, including laps and stroke count, making it a solid choice for swimmers.

    • Automatic Workout Detection: One of the more advanced features of the Galaxy Fit 3 is its ability to automatically detect workouts like walking, running, cycling, and swimming without needing to manually start the activity. This is especially convenient for users who want seamless tracking without interaction.

    • Affordable Price: Samsung has positioned the Galaxy Fit 3 as a budget-friendly fitness tracker, making it accessible to a wide range of users who want basic health and fitness tracking without the premium cost of higher-end devices like smartwatches.

    • Compatibility with Android and iOS: The Galaxy Fit 3 works with both Android and iOS, providing flexibility for users who may switch platforms. It syncs easily with the Samsung Health app, which offers deeper insights into health and fitness data, as well as customization options for the device.

Cons:

    • Limited Smart Features: While the Galaxy Fit 3 offers notifications for calls, texts, and apps, it lacks advanced smart features such as voice assistants, music storage, or third-party app support, which are common in more expensive smartwatches. Its functionality is largely focused on fitness tracking, with limited smartwatch capabilities.
    • No Built-In GPS: The Galaxy Fit 3 does not feature built-in GPS, which means that users need to connect it to their smartphones for accurate location-based tracking, such as outdoor running or cycling routes. This might be inconvenient for those who prefer leaving their phones behind during workouts.
    • Proprietary OS Limits App Integration: The tracker runs on a proprietary operating system, which means that users cannot install third-party apps or enjoy the same app ecosystem that’s available on devices like the Apple Watch or Samsung’s Galaxy Watch series. It works well with the Samsung Health app, but there’s limited room for customization or expansion.
    • Small Screen for Extensive Interactions: The 1.1-inch display, while vibrant, may feel small for users who want to interact with notifications, especially for long text messages or detailed app alerts. Although the touch navigation is responsive, the small screen limits the device’s usability for more advanced smart features.
    • No Always-On Display (AOD): The Galaxy Fit 3 does not feature an always-on display, which some users may find disappointing. Although the AMOLED screen offers excellent clarity, users will need to raise their wrists or tap the screen to view the time or notifications, a feature that some competitors provide with always-on options.
    • No NFC or Payment Support: Unlike some other fitness trackers and smartwatches, the Galaxy Fit 3 does not come with NFC or any support for contactless payments. This could be a dealbreaker for users who prefer using their fitness trackers for mobile payments via services like Samsung Pay or Google Pay.

Click here to purchase Samsung Galaxy Fit 3.

2. mazfit Bip 5

Price: ~$89

Click here to purchase Amazfit Bip 5.

The Amazfit Bip 5 is a feature-packed budget-friendly smartwatch offering an extensive range of health, fitness, and smart features. Let’s break down its details and provide an in-depth review based on its specifications, pros, and cons.

Specifications:

    • Display: 1.91-inch TFT LCD, 320×380 pixels
    • Case Size: 46 mm
    • Weight: 26g (without strap)
    • Battery Life: Up to 10 days with typical use
    • GPS: Built-in GPS and GLONASS for accurate location tracking
    • Water Resistance: 5 ATM (50 meters)
    • Alexa Integration: Built-in Alexa voice assistant
    • Bluetooth Calling: Allows for phone calls via Bluetooth connection
    • Sensors:
      • PPG BioTracker™ 3.0 for 24/7 heart rate monitoring
      • SpO2 sensor for blood oxygen monitoring
      • Accelerometer
      • Gyroscope
    • Fitness & Health Tracking: VO2 Max measurement, heart rate, sleep analysis, stress tracking.
    • Compatibility: Works with both Android and iOS devices.
    • App Support: Zepp App for fitness tracking, AI fitness coaching, and other health insights.

Pros

    • Affordable Price: Given its rich set of features, the Amazfit Bip 5 is very budget-friendly, making it accessible to a broader audience.
    • Comprehensive Health Monitoring: The watch offers continuous heart rate monitoring, SpO2 measurements, VO2 Max tracking, and sleep health analysis, comparable to more expensive models.
    • Long Battery Life: Up to 10 days of usage with GPS and health monitoring on is a strong point for those who don’t want to charge their devices frequently.
    • Built-in Alexa: Having Alexa at your wrist is convenient for smart home controls and getting quick information.
    • Bluetooth Calling: This feature is useful for users who prefer hands-free communication.
    • Lightweight Design: At 26g, it is comfortable to wear throughout the day and during workouts.
    • Decent Fitness Tracking: Supports over 120 sports modes, making it a great companion for sports enthusiasts.

Cons

    • TFT LCD Display: While functional, the screen is a TFT LCD, which is not as vibrant or sharp as AMOLED displays found in higher-end models.
    • No Third-Party App Support: While it works well with the Zepp app, the Amazfit Bip 5 does not support third-party apps like Spotify or WhatsApp natively, limiting its smart features.
    • Limited Customization: The user interface is not as customizable as some competitors, meaning users have less control over the watch face and app layout.
    • Basic GPS: The GPS is accurate for general fitness tracking, but more advanced athletes may find it lacks the precision or depth of other high-end smartwatches.
    • No NFC for Payments: It lacks NFC, which means no support for mobile payments—a feature that many users find helpful in smartwatches.
    • Limited Waterproofing: While 5 ATM water resistance is decent for swimming, it’s not ideal for deep diving or prolonged water exposure.

Click here to purchase Amazfit Bip 5. 

3. Amazfit GTS 2 Mini (New Version)

Price: ~$100

Click here to purchase Amazfit GTS2 Mini (New Version).

The Amazfit GTS 2 Mini (New Version) is a lightweight and affordable smartwatch that balances style, functionality, and health-tracking features. It offers a range of capabilities typically seen in more expensive smartwatches, including built-in GPS, heart-rate monitoring, and SpO2 tracking, making it a compelling choice for those seeking value for money.

Specifications:

    • Display: 1.55-inch AMOLED, 354×306 pixels
    • Case Size: 40.5 mm
    • Weight: 19.5g (without strap)
    • Battery Life: Up to 14 days on typical usage, 7 days with heavy use
    • GPS: Built-in GPS + GLONASS
    • Water Resistance: 5 ATM (up to 50 meters)
    • Alexa Integration: Built-in Alexa for voice commands
    • Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.0 BLE
    • Sensors:
      • Optical heart rate sensor (BioTracker™ 2 PPG)
      • SpO2 sensor for blood oxygen monitoring
      • Accelerometer
      • Gyroscope
      • Geomagnetic sensor
      • Ambient light sensor
    • Health Features:
      • 24/7 heart rate monitoring
      • Sleep tracking (including REM and nap detection)
      • Stress monitoring
      • PAI (Personal Activity Intelligence)
    • Sports Tracking: Over 68 sports modes
    • App Support: Zepp App for in-depth health and fitness data analysis
    • Compatibility: Works with both Android and iOS devices

Pros:

    • Bright AMOLED Display: The 1.55-inch AMOLED screen offers vibrant colors and sharp text, enhancing the user experience. The always-on display feature is a nice touch for users who prefer constant screen visibility.
    • Lightweight: At just 19.5g, the watch is comfortable to wear, even for long periods.
    • Comprehensive Health Tracking: Continuous heart rate monitoring, SpO2 tracking, sleep analysis, and stress monitoring provide a holistic overview of your health and wellness.
    • Built-in GPS: For outdoor sports enthusiasts, the built-in GPS is a valuable feature, providing accurate location tracking without relying on a smartphone.
    • Alexa Integration: The inclusion of Alexa adds versatility to the watch, making it more interactive for users who want voice control features.
    • Long Battery Life: With up to 14 days of battery life, the GTS 2 Mini stands out as a smartwatch that requires infrequent charging.
    • Affordable Price: For its wide range of features, the Amazfit GTS 2 Mini is competitively priced, offering excellent value for budget-conscious users.

Cons:

    • Limited Third-Party App Integration: While the Zepp App is great for health tracking, the watch doesn’t support third-party apps like Spotify or WhatsApp, limiting its smart functionality.
    • No Bluetooth Calling: the GTS 2 Mini New Version doesn’t support Bluetooth calling, which may be a downside for users who want hands-free communication.
    • No NFC for Payments: The lack of NFC means you can’t use the watch for mobile payments, a feature some users might expect from a modern smartwatch.
    • Basic Fitness Features: While it supports 68 sports modes, it lacks some advanced metrics for professional athletes or hardcore fitness enthusiasts, such as detailed post-workout recovery insights or advanced running dynamics.
    • Water Resistance: Though it has a 5 ATM rating, which is good for swimming, it’s not suitable for deep-water activities like diving.

Click here to purchase Amazfit GTS2 Mini (New Version).

4. Fitbit Inspire 3

Price: ~$100

Click here to purchase Fitbit Inspire 3.

The Fitbit Inspire 3 is a sleek, user-friendly fitness tracker aimed at users looking for essential health and wellness features. It offers a solid mix of fitness tracking, health monitoring, and smart features, all packed into a lightweight and affordable device. Let’s take a closer look at the Fitbit Inspire 3, focusing on its specifications, features, pros, and cons.

Specifications:

    • Display: 0.76-inch AMOLED, 124 x 206 pixels
    • Case Size: Small, lightweight form factor (approx. 36mm)
    • Battery Life: Up to 10 days on a single charge
    • Water Resistance: 5 ATM (up to 50 meters)
    • Connectivity: Bluetooth
    • Compatibility: iOS and Android
    • Sensors:
      • 24/7 heart rate monitoring
      • SpO2 (blood oxygen) sensor
      • Skin temperature sensor
      • Accelerometer
    • Health Features:
      • Continuous heart rate monitoring
      • Sleep tracking with sleep stages (light, deep, REM)
      • Stress management score
      • Menstrual health tracking
      • Breathing rate and SpO2 tracking
    • Activity Tracking:
      • 24/7 activity tracking (steps, distance, calories burned)
      • Active Zone Minutes (tracking time spent in heart rate zones)
      • 20+ exercise modes with automatic exercise detection
    • Smart Features:
      • Call, text, and app notifications
      • Do Not Disturb mode
      • Silent alarms and timers
      • Fitbit Premium support for advanced metrics and guided programs (subscription required)
  1.  

Pros:

    • Bright AMOLED Display: The AMOLED color display is sharp, vibrant, and easy to read, offering a major visual improvement over previous models.
    • Comprehensive Health Tracking: It offers robust health metrics like continuous heart rate monitoring, SpO2 readings, sleep tracking, and stress management scores, making it useful for both fitness enthusiasts and people who want to monitor their general well-being.
    • Long Battery Life: With up to 10 days of battery life, you won’t need to charge it frequently, which is convenient for users who don’t want to worry about daily charging.
    • Water Resistant: The 5 ATM water resistance means it can be worn while swimming or in the shower, making it a versatile companion for a variety of activities.
    • Lightweight Design: The Fitbit Inspire 3 is extremely lightweight and comfortable to wear, making it ideal for all-day use, including during sleep.
    • Active Zone Minutes: Fitbit’s Active Zone Minutes feature is an excellent way to monitor fitness progress and motivate users to stay active.
    • Affordable Price: The Inspire 3 is budget-friendly, offering descent features typically found in more expensive models at a lower price point.

Cons:

    • No Built-in GPS: The Inspire 3 lacks built-in GPS, meaning you’ll need to connect it to your smartphone for GPS-based distance and pace tracking during outdoor activities like running or cycling.
    • Limited Smart Features: Compared to smartwatches, the Inspire 3 has more basic smart features. While it offers notifications, it doesn’t support music controls, voice assistants, or more advanced app functionalities.
    • Small Display: While the display is bright and colorful, its size may feel limiting for users who prefer larger screens or need more on-screen information during workouts.
    • Fitbit Premium Dependency: To access advanced features like detailed wellness reports, personalized insights, and guided programs, you need to subscribe to Fitbit Premium, which comes at an additional cost.
    • No NFC for Payments: Unlike higher-end Fitbit models, the Inspire 3 doesn’t have NFC capabilities, so it doesn’t support Fitbit Pay for contactless payments.

Click here to purchase Fitbit Inspire 3.

5. Xiaomi Redmi Watch 4

Price: ~$110

Click here to purchase Xiaomi Redmi Watch 4.

The Xiaomi Redmi Watch 4 is part of the budget smartwatch series from Xiaomi, offering a variety of features aimed at fitness enthusiasts and casual users who want smart features at an affordable price. The Redmi Watch 4 focuses on fitness tracking, smart notifications, and long battery life, all wrapped in a stylish and functional design.

Specifications:

    • Display:1.75-inch AMOLED display, 450 x 390 pixels resolution, 60Hz refresh rate
    • Battery: 289mAh (up to 10-12 days of battery life with typical use)
    • Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2, GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS (built-in)
    • Water Resistance: 5 ATM (up to 50 meters)
    • Operating System: Proprietary OS (compatible with both Android and iOS)
    • Sensors:
      • Heart Rate Sensor
      • SpO2 (Blood Oxygen) Monitor
      • Accelerometer
      • Gyroscope
      • Ambient Light Sensor
    • Health and Fitness Tracking:
      • 24/7 heart rate monitoring
      • Blood oxygen (SpO2) monitoring
      • Sleep tracking
      • Stress monitoring
      • Breathing exercises
      • Over 100 sports modes (including outdoor running, cycling, swimming)
    • Smart Features:
      • Smartphone notifications (calls, messages, apps)
      • Music control
      • Weather updates
      • Alarm and stopwatch
      • Find my phone
    • Weight: 34.6 grams

Pros:

    • Vibrant AMOLED Display: One of the standout features of the Redmi Watch 4 is its 1.75-inch AMOLED display. The 450 x 390-pixel resolution combined with a 60Hz refresh rate provides sharp visuals and smooth animations. The AMOLED technology ensures vibrant colors and deep blacks, making the watch easy to read, even under bright sunlight.

    • Affordable Price: As with most Redmi products, the Watch 4 is positioned as an affordable option in the smartwatch market. It offers a lot of features typically found in more expensive devices, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers who still want a capable and feature-rich device.

    • Built-in GPS: The inclusion of built-in GPS along with support for GLONASS, Galileo, and QZSS means that users can accurately track their runs, cycling, and other outdoor activities without needing to carry their phones.

    • Long Battery Life: The 289mAh battery provides an impressive 10-12 days of battery life with typical usage. Even with GPS and heart rate monitoring enabled, the battery can last several days on a single charge, which is highly convenient for users who don’t want to charge their watch frequently.

    • Comprehensive Health Tracking: The Redmi Watch 4 offers a variety of health-tracking features, including 24/7 heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen (SpO2) tracking, sleep analysis, stress monitoring, and breathing exercises. These features make it a well-rounded health companion, particularly for those focused on fitness.

    • Over 100 Sports Modes: The watch supports over 100 sports modes, including running, cycling, swimming, and more specialized activities like yoga and strength training. This level of versatility ensures that the watch can track almost any workout effectively.

    • Water Resistance (5 ATM): The 5 ATM water resistance rating means the watch is suitable for swimming, allowing it to be worn in the pool or in the shower without worry. It can track swim metrics such as laps, distance, and stroke type, making it a solid choice for swimmers.

    • Lightweight Design: Weighing just 34.6 grams, the Redmi Watch 4 is lightweight. 

Cons:

    • Proprietary OS: The Redmi Watch 4 runs on a proprietary operating system, which, while functional, is limited compared to more robust platforms like Wear OS or Apple’s watchOS. The app ecosystem is not as vast, and customization options are more restricted. This may be a downside for users who want access to a wide range of third-party apps.

    • Limited Smart Features: While the watch offers basic smart notifications (calls, messages, apps), it lacks more advanced smart features like voice assistants, app installations, or NFC for contactless payments. This could be a dealbreaker for users looking for a more comprehensive smartwatch experience.

    • No Third-Party App Support: The watch does not support third-party app installations, limiting its functionality to the pre-installed apps. This reduces the flexibility and potential expansion of features that some users might want from a smartwatch.

    • Basic Fitness Metrics: While the Redmi Watch 4 provides essential fitness tracking, it lacks advanced metrics like VO2 Max, advanced running dynamics, or ECG that are available on more expensive devices. This might not satisfy more serious athletes or those who are training with detailed data in mind.

    • No Always-On Display (AOD): The watch does not support an always-on display mode, which can be disappointing for users who prefer to see the time at a glance without raising their wrist or tapping the screen. This feature is often found in higher-end models with AMOLED screens.

    • Limited Customization Options: The Redmi Watch 4 has limited watch face customization and lacks deeper personalization options for the user interface. While there are a few watch faces to choose from, the ability to customize them or create your own is limited compared to other smartwatches.

Click here to purchase Xiaomi Redmi Watch 4.

6. TicWatch E3

Price: ~$120

Click here to purchase Ticwatch E3.

The TicWatch E3, developed by Mobvoi, is a mid-range smartwatch that offers solid performance and versatility at a relatively affordable price. Running on Google’s Wear OS, it delivers a full suite of smart features, fitness tracking, and compatibility with a wide range of apps. It also benefits from a sleek design and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear 4100 chipset, making it one of the more powerful smartwatches in its price bracket.

Specifications:

    • Display: 1.3-inch TFT LCD display, 360 x 360 pixels resolution
    • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 4100
    • RAM: 1GB
    • Storage: 8GB internal storage
    • Battery:380mAh (up to 2 days in Smart Mode, up to 45 days in Essential Mode)
    • Operating System: Wear OS by Google
    • Water Resistance: IP68 rating (swim-proof)
    • Sensors:
      • Accelerometer
      • Gyroscope
      • PPG Heart Rate Sensor
      • SpO2 Sensor (Blood Oxygen)
      • Ambient Light Sensor
      • Barometer
    • GPS: Built-in GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo
    • Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, NFC for Google Pay
    • Fitness and Health Tracking:
      • 24/7 heart rate monitoring
      • Blood oxygen (SpO2) tracking
      • Sleep tracking
      • Stress tracking
      • Breathing exercises
      • Fitness tracking for 20+ workout modes
    • Smart Features:
      • Google Assistant
      • Google Pay (NFC payments)
      • Smartphone notifications (calls, texts, emails)
      • Music control and playback

Pros:

    • Powerful Snapdragon Wear 4100 Processor: The TicWatch E3 is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear 4100, which provides a smooth and responsive experience. This chipset is more power-efficient and faster than previous generations, ensuring that apps open quickly and the watch doesn’t suffer from lag, which is often a problem in other smartwatches in this price range.

    • Affordable Price Point: Given its solid specs and Wear OS functionality, the TicWatch E3 is reasonably priced compared to other smartwatches that offer similar features. 

    • Wear OS Integration: As it runs on Wear OS by Google, the watch offers seamless integration with Google’s ecosystem, including Google Assistant, Google Fit, and Google Pay. The platform also supports a wide range of third-party apps from the Google Play Store, allowing users to customize the watch according to their preferences.

    • Comprehensive Health and Fitness Tracking: The TicWatch E3 comes equipped with a variety of health and fitness tracking features, including 24/7 heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen (SpO2) tracking, sleep tracking, and stress monitoring. It also includes over 20 workout modes, from running to swimming, with built-in GPS for accurate tracking.

    • Good Battery Life with Essential Mode: While in Smart Mode, the TicWatch E3 offers about 2 days of battery life, which is decent for a smartwatch running Wear OS. However, it shines with the Essential Mode, which disables smart features but allows the watch to last up to 45 days while still offering basic functions like step counting and timekeeping.

    • IP68 Water Resistance: With an IP68 rating, the TicWatch E3 is water-resistant enough for swimming and can withstand splashes, sweat, and rain, making it suitable for various outdoor activities.

    • Lightweight and Comfortable Design: Weighing just 32 grams (without the strap), the TicWatch E3 is light and comfortable to wear all day. Its simple, minimalist design, paired with a silicone strap, makes it ideal for both casual wear and exercise.

    • NFC for Google Pay: The inclusion of NFC allows users to make contactless payments using Google Pay, which is a convenient feature for those on the go who prefer leaving their wallet behind.

Cons:

    • TFT Display Instead of AMOLED: One of the major drawbacks of the TicWatch E3 is the use of a TFT LCD display instead of the more vibrant AMOLED technology found in some competing smartwatches. While the display is still functional and sharp, it lacks the deep blacks and richer colors that AMOLED panels provide.

    • Thick Bezels: The TicWatch E3 has relatively thick bezels around its 1.3-inch display, which can give it a slightly dated look. While this doesn’t affect functionality, some users may find it aesthetically unappealing, especially when compared to watches with more modern, edge-to-edge designs.

    • No Wireless Charging: The TicWatch E3 uses a proprietary magnetic charger rather than wireless charging, which might be a downside for users who prefer the convenience of wireless charging solutions. Additionally, the charging speed is not particularly fast, requiring around 1-2 hours for a full charge.

    • Limited Storage: With 8GB of internal storage, there is not much room for apps, music, or other data, especially with some of it taken up by the operating system. While it’s enough for basic use, it’s restrictive for those who like to store a lot of media or apps directly on the watch.

    • Battery Life Could Be Better in Smart Mode: Although the battery life in Essential Mode is excellent, the 2-day battery life in Smart Mode may not be sufficient for heavy users, especially when compared to other smartwatches like the Fitbit Versa or Garmin watches that offer better longevity in similar usage scenarios.

    • Wear OS Limitations: While Wear OS provides access to Google’s ecosystem, it is known for being less polished than competing operating systems like Apple’s watchOS or Samsung’s Tizen. Some users might find Wear OS lacking in fluidity, app availability, or smartwatch-specific features.

    • No ECG or Advanced Health Metrics: Although the TicWatch E3 offers robust health tracking, it lacks some advanced health metrics like an electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor, which is available in other high-end smartwatches. This may be a limitation for users who require more in-depth heart health tracking.

Click here to purchase Ticwatch E3.

7. Garmin Forerunner 55

Price: ~$170

Click here to purchase Garmin Forerunner 55.

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is a budget-friendly, entry-level running watch that offers a great deal of functionality, especially for those new to running or fitness tracking. Released as a successor to the Forerunner 45, it provides key features for tracking performance, monitoring health metrics, and helping users to improve their fitness without overwhelming them with complex settings or high costs.

Specifications:

    • Display: 1.04-inch sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP), 208 x 208 pixels
    • Weight: 37 grams
    • Battery Life: Up to 2 weeks
    • GPS: Built-in GPS, GLONASS, Galileo
    • Heart Rate Monitor: Wrist-based, 24/7 heart rate tracking
    • Water Resistance: 5 ATM (up to 50 meters)
    • Sensors: Accelerometer, heart rate sensor
    • Smart Features: Smartphone notifications, calendar, weather updates
    • Activity Tracking: Steps, calories burned, distance, sleep monitoring, stress tracking
    • Training Features:
      • Built-in sports apps (running, cycling, swimming, cardio, etc.)
      • PacePro™ feature for race pacing strategies
      • Recovery time advisor
      • Suggested daily workouts
      • Fitness age estimation
      • VO2 Max estimate
      • Cadence alerts
      • Track run and virtual run modes

Pros:

    • Affordable and Beginner-Friendly: The Garmin Forerunner 55 is positioned as an affordable option, making it a great choice for beginners or casual runners. It offers just enough functionality for those looking to track their runs and daily fitness without the complexity or cost of higher-end Garmin models.

    • Accurate GPS and Heart Rate Tracking: The built-in GPS is accurate for tracking routes during outdoor activities like running or cycling, while the wrist-based heart rate monitor provides reliable data for most users, especially during moderate activities.

    • Impressive Battery Life: With up to 2 weeks of battery life in smartwatch mode and 20 hours in GPS mode, the Forerunner 55 can last through long workout sessions and extended periods of regular use without needing frequent charging.

    • Advanced Training Features: Despite being an entry-level model, the Forerunner 55 comes with useful advanced features like suggested daily workouts, recovery time advisor, and race pacing strategies (PacePro™), which are often seen in higher-end watches. These features are ideal for runners who want to improve their performance over time.

    • Comprehensive Fitness Tracking: The watch offers fitness tracking beyond just running, with built-in sports modes for cycling, swimming, and more. It also provides 24/7 heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, stress tracking, and even menstrual cycle tracking, making it a well-rounded health companion.

    • Lightweight: Weighing only 37 grams, the Forerunner 55 is lightweight and comfortable, even for long runs or all-day wear. Its slim profile and simple design make it suitable for both men and women.

    • User-Friendly Interface: The interface is easy to navigate, even for beginners. The physical buttons (as opposed to a touchscreen) allow for intuitive use during activities, especially when sweat or water might make touchscreens less responsive.

Cons:

    • Basic Display: The 1.04-inch transflective display is functional but not as vibrant or sharp as more premium watches. Its 208×208 resolution can appear dated, especially when compared to higher-end models or modern smartwatches with OLED screens.

    • No Music Storage or Payments: Unlike some of Garmin’s more expensive models, the Forerunner 55 lacks music storage, meaning users need to bring their phones if they want to listen to music during workouts. It also lacks Garmin Pay, which could be a downside for those looking for contactless payment options on the go.

    • Limited Smart Features: While the Forerunner 55 provides basic smartphone notifications (calls, texts, calendar updates), it lacks the more advanced smart features found in premium models, like apps, voice control, or third-party app integrations.

    • No Altimeter or Barometer: The absence of an altimeter or barometer means that elevation tracking for activities like hiking or trail running is limited. This might be a dealbreaker for more serious outdoor enthusiasts who want to track elevation gain and loss.

    • No Touchscreen: While the physical button layout works well for workouts, some users might miss the convenience of a touchscreen for faster navigation or customization, particularly for non-running activities.

    • Lacks Advanced Metrics for Professional Athletes: While it’s great for beginners and intermediate runners, the Forerunner 55 lacks some of the advanced metrics (like lactate threshold, advanced running dynamics, or training load focus) that more experienced athletes might want.

Click here to purchase Garmin Forerunner 55.

8. Withings Steel HR Sport

Price: ~$200

Click here to purchase Withings Steel HR Sport.

The Withings Steel HR Sport is a hybrid smartwatch designed for fitness enthusiasts who prefer a traditional watch look with smart tracking capabilities. With a classic analog design paired with smart health and activity tracking features, it strikes a balance between style and functionality. It’s a fitness-focused upgrade to the Steel HR, offering improved metrics like VO2 Max, connected GPS, and multi-sport tracking, making it a versatile choice for those who want advanced health data without compromising on design.

Specifications:

    • Display: Analog watch face with a small OLED display (for notifications and fitness data)
    • Battery: 25 days on a single charge in normal mode, 5 additional days in workout mode, and Up to 45 days in power-saving mode
    • Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.0, Connected GPS (via smartphone)
    • Water Resistance: 5 ATM (up to 50 meters, suitable for swimming)
    • Sensors:
      • Heart rate monitor
      • Accelerometer
      • VO2 Max estimator
    • Fitness and Health Tracking:
      • 24/7 heart rate monitoring
      • Sleep tracking with Smart Wake-Up
      • VO2 Max estimation (for measuring fitness levels)
      • Step tracking
      • Multi-sport tracking (30+ sport modes)
      • Calories burned, distance, and fitness level tracking
    • Smart Features:
      • Smartphone notifications (calls, texts, app alerts)
      • Silent alarms (vibration)
      • Connected GPS (requires phone)
      • Weather updates
      • Find my phone
    • Weight: 49 grams (with silicone strap)
    • Straps: Interchangeable (silicone or leather options available)

Pros:

    • Stylish Hybrid Design: The Withings Steel HR Sport combines the elegance of an analog watch with the functionality of a fitness tracker. The hybrid design is a standout feature, appealing to those who want a traditional, stylish wristwatch with modern smart tracking. The small OLED display embedded in the analog face discreetly shows fitness data and notifications without overwhelming the watch’s aesthetic.

    • Long Battery Life: With up to 25 days of battery life. The extended battery life in power-saving mode (up to 45 days) ensures that users can rely on it without frequent recharging.

    • Comprehensive Fitness Tracking: The watch supports 30+ sports modes, including running, cycling, swimming, and more. It tracks essential metrics like heart rate, calories burned, and distance traveled. The addition of VO2 Max estimation provides users with a deeper understanding of their fitness level and cardiovascular health, which is valuable for performance athletes or those looking to improve fitness.

    • VO2 Max and Fitness Level Estimation: A key feature of the Steel HR Sport is the VO2 Max estimator, which calculates the maximum oxygen consumption during intense exercise. This is an excellent feature for users who are serious about tracking their fitness progress and improving cardiovascular health.

    • Water Resistance (5 ATM): The 5 ATM water resistance rating means that the Steel HR Sport is suitable for swimming and can withstand water exposure up to 50 meters. It automatically tracks swim metrics such as duration and calories burned.

    • Connected GPS for Outdoor Activities: Although the watch doesn’t have built-in GPS, it offers connected GPS, meaning it can pair with a smartphone to track outdoor routes for activities like running or cycling.

    • 24/7 Heart Rate Monitoring: With continuous heart rate monitoring, the Steel HR Sport provides valuable insights into your health, from resting heart rate to active heart rate during workouts. It also offers heart rate zone tracking, which helps optimize workouts by showing when you’re in the fat-burning or cardio zone.

    • Sleep Tracking with Smart Wake-Up: The watch provides advanced sleep tracking, including light and deep sleep phases, duration, and wake times. It also features a Smart Wake-Up alarm, which vibrates to wake you during the optimal sleep stage for a more gentle and refreshing wake-up experience.

    • Customizable Straps: The Steel HR Sport supports interchangeable straps, offering users the flexibility to switch between sporty silicone or more formal leather options, depending on the occasion.

Cons:

    • No Built-In GPS: While the watch offers connected GPS (through your smartphone), it lacks built-in GPS. This means users must carry their phones during outdoor activities like running or cycling if they want accurate route tracking. This could be a drawback for users who prefer not to rely on their phones during workouts.

    • Limited Smart Features: Compared to other smartwatches like the Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch, the Steel HR Sport has fewer smart features. It supports basic notifications for calls, texts, and app alerts, but it doesn’t offer advanced features like voice assistants, music playback, or third-party app installations.

    • Small OLED Display: The small OLED display, while useful for showing notifications and health metrics, is limited in size, which can make viewing long notifications or detailed information somewhat inconvenient. It’s sufficient for glancing at basic stats, but it doesn’t compare to the larger screens of full-fledged smartwatches.

    • Fitness Data Limited Without App: Although the watch tracks a lot of data, much of it is only accessible through the Withings Health Mate app. This means users will need to regularly sync the watch with their phones to get detailed insights and track long-term progress.

    • No Advanced Health Metrics Like ECG: While the watch offers solid fitness tracking, it lacks some advanced health monitoring features, such as ECG or blood pressure monitoring, which are increasingly found in higher-end fitness trackers and smartwatches.

    • Lacks Always-On Display: The Steel HR Sport does not feature an always-on display, which may be a downside for users who prefer to have the time and basic information visible at all times without needing to activate the watch’s screen.

Click here to purchase Withings Steel HR Sport. 

Finally, here some strategies to make the most out of your smartwatch:

1. Customize Your Watch Face and Interface:

    • Choose a Functional Watch Face: Select a watch face that displays the information you find most useful, such as time, date, fitness stats, or notifications. Many smartwatches allow customization, so you can choose or design faces that match your preferences and needs.
    • Organize Widgets: Arrange widgets or apps on your smartwatch for quick access to features you use most often, such as weather updates, calendar events, or fitness metrics.

2. Optimize Fitness Tracking:

    • Set Goals: Use your smartwatch to set and track fitness goals, such as daily step counts, calorie burns, or exercise duration. Many smartwatches provide goal-setting features and progress tracking.
    • Monitor Health Metrics: Regularly check metrics such as heart rate, sleep patterns, and stress levels. Utilize features like heart rate zone training or SpO2 monitoring to get a comprehensive view of your health.

3. Utilize Notifications Efficiently:

    • Customize Notifications: Filter which notifications you receive on your smartwatch to avoid distractions. Set up notifications for important apps and events, and mute or limit notifications for less critical ones.
    • Respond Quickly: Take advantage of quick reply features for messages and notifications, which allow you to respond directly from your watch without needing to pull out your phone.

4. Leverage GPS and Mapping Features:

    • Track Outdoor Activities: Use built-in or connected GPS to track your outdoor workouts, such as running, cycling, or hiking. This will provide accurate distance, pace, and route information.
    • Explore Maps: If your smartwatch supports it, use offline maps or navigation features to guide you during outdoor adventures or while exploring new areas.

5. Manage Battery Life:

    • Use Power-Saving Modes: Activate power-saving modes when you need to extend battery life. These modes often reduce background activities and disable non-essential features.
    • Charge Strategically: Keep your smartwatch charged by establishing a regular charging routine. Avoid letting the battery drain completely to prolong its overall lifespan.

6. Sync and Backup Data Regularly:

    • Keep Data Updated: Sync your smartwatch with its companion app regularly to ensure that all your data is backed up and up to date. This also allows you to receive software updates and new features.
    • Review Data Trends: Use the companion app to review trends and insights from your health and fitness data. This can help you make informed decisions about your well-being.

7. Explore and Install Apps:

    • Discover Useful Apps: Explore the app store for your smartwatch to find apps that enhance its functionality. Look for apps related to fitness, productivity, navigation, or entertainment.
    • Try Third-Party Apps: Some smartwatches support third-party apps that can add new features or capabilities. Experiment with different apps to find ones that fit your lifestyle.

8. Utilize Voice Commands and Assistants:

    • Use Voice Features: If your smartwatch supports voice commands or virtual assistants, use these features to perform tasks hands-free, such as setting reminders, checking the weather, or controlling smart home devices.

9. Maintain Comfort and Fit:

    • Adjust the Strap: Ensure your smartwatch is comfortably fitted on your wrist for accurate health and fitness tracking. Most smartwatches come with adjustable straps, and some allow for easy strap replacement.
    • Choose the Right Size: Select a smartwatch size and style that suits your wrist size and personal preference for comfort and usability.

10. Stay Informed About Updates:

    • Check for Firmware Updates: Regularly update your smartwatch’s firmware to benefit from new features, performance improvements, and security enhancements.
    • Read User Manuals and Guides: Familiarize yourself with your smartwatch’s capabilities by reading the user manual or exploring online guides. This will help you make the most of its features.

By applying these strategies, you can optimize the use of your smartwatch, making it a valuable tool for fitness, productivity, and daily convenience.