10 Best Cheap Smartwatches

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is a budget-friendly smartwatch tailored for those who prioritize fitness, particularly running. One of its main strengths is its advanced fitness tracking capabilities. It monitors heart rate directly from your wrist and uses GPS to track your location, speed, and distance, which is great for runners who want detailed insights into their performance. The watch also features Garmin Coach, which provides adaptive training plans, and PacePro, a tool for pace guidance, making it very appealing for anyone training for races.

The 1.04-inch round screen is clear but not particularly large, which might not suit everyone. The watch is lightweight at 37 grams, ensuring comfort during long runs or workouts. Battery life is adequate with a 10000 mAh lithium polymer battery, though heavy GPS use could see it drain faster than some would like.

Compatibility is robust, working with Android devices via Bluetooth, and users can download additional apps and watch faces through the Garmin Connect IQ Store, though it might not have as wide a selection as some other platforms. Durability seems solid, but it might not withstand very harsh conditions as robustly as some higher-end models. It's mainly designed for everyday wear and standard sports activities. Notifications for calls, texts, and alerts work as expected, keeping you connected while on the go. While the Forerunner 55 excels in fitness features, those seeking more comprehensive smartwatch functions like a vibrant touchscreen or extensive app ecosystem might find it lacking. For fitness enthusiasts, particularly runners, it offers excellent value for its price, providing essential features and insights to help improve performance.

The Garmin Forerunner 255 is a lightweight and feature-rich smartwatch designed for fitness enthusiasts. It boasts an impressive battery life, offering up to 14 days in smartwatch mode and up to 30 hours in GPS mode, which is excellent for extended use without frequent charging. The 1.3-inch round display is clear and easy to read, making it convenient for checking notifications and fitness stats on the go. However, it's worth noting that the screen size might be slightly smaller compared to some other models in the market.

The watch excels in fitness tracking with advanced insights like heart rate variability (HRV) monitoring during sleep, and adaptive workout suggestions that help tailor your training regimen. The built-in GPS with multi-band satellite tracking ensures accurate tracking of your runs, even in challenging environments. On the compatibility front, it works seamlessly with both Apple and Android smartphones, allowing users to receive and respond to notifications directly from their wrist. The Garmin Pay feature is another convenience for those who prefer contactless payments.

Durability is a strong suit, as the smartwatch is waterproof, making it suitable for various weather conditions and activities. However, one limitation is its relatively modest 4 GB storage capacity, which may not be sufficient for users who want to store a large number of apps or music files directly on the watch. In summary, the Garmin Forerunner 255 is well-suited for users who prioritize fitness tracking and need a reliable, durable smartwatch with robust battery life. The combination of advanced training insights and compatibility with major smartphone platforms makes it a compelling choice, although the limited storage and screen size might be a consideration for some.

The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) presents a solid option for those seeking a cheap smartwatch that doesn’t skimp on essential features. It boasts a crisp Retina Display that ensures clear visibility, which is a standout in its price range. The watch’s compatibility with Apple devices makes it highly convenient for iPhone users, offering seamless integration that extends from notifications to unlocking your Mac.

Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the comprehensive fitness tracking capabilities, including heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and advanced workout metrics. The inclusion of Apple Fitness+ for three months also adds value for workout enthusiasts. Safety features like Fall Detection, Crash Detection, and Emergency SOS provide an added layer of security, making it appealing for those concerned about their well-being.

However, when it comes to battery life, it might not meet the extended longevity found in some competitors. Users who require long-lasting battery performance may find themselves needing to charge it more frequently. Additionally, while the watch is swim-proof, offering 50m water resistance, it may not be as rugged as some other models aimed at more adventurous users.

The device’s durability is backed by its water resistance and the use of quality materials, and the ability to customize the watch faces and straps allows for personalization to suit individual tastes. The built-in GPS is a plus for outdoor activities, although it relies heavily on connectivity with an iPhone or Wi-Fi for full functionality.

For those on a budget, the Apple Watch SE provides a balanced mix of features, style, and functionality, especially for Apple ecosystem users. It’s particularly suited for those who prioritize connectivity and fitness tracking in an elegant package without investing in higher-end models.