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10 Best Cheap Smart Watches

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.

Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Smart Watches

Buying a smart watch is about much more than just getting the cheapest option. The right choice depends on how you plan to use it—fitness tracking, notifications, health monitoring, or simply as a stylish extension of your phone. Before making a purchase, think about the most important features for your daily life, such as battery life, screen quality, compatibility with your phone, and any must-have health sensors. Understanding the key specs will help you focus on what really matters, ensuring you don't overspend on unused features or choose something that falls short of your needs.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the smart watch works with your smartphone's operating system, such as Android or iOS. This is important because some watches have features that only function fully with a matching phone system. Typically, cheap smart watches are marketed as universally compatible, but in practice, certain notifications or apps may not work unless your phone matches the recommended system. Make sure to check if the watch works properly with your specific phone to avoid frustrations with missing features.
Display Type and SizeThe display is the main interface for any smart watch. It's usually either LCD or AMOLED for cheap watches. AMOLED screens are more vibrant and consume less power when showing dark backgrounds, while LCD screens tend to be more affordable and still clear enough for basic use. Screen size can range from compact (about 1.2 inches), standard (1.4-1.5 inches), to larger sizes (above 1.7 inches). If you prefer readability and a more interactive touch, larger screens make sense, but if you want something discreet and lightweight, go smaller.
Battery LifeBattery life is how long the watch can operate on a single charge. This varies from one to several days in cheap models, depending on screen type, usage, and features like heart rate tracking. Watches with basic displays or limited features last longer, sometimes up to a week, while more advanced screens and active sensors typically need daily charging. If you want to avoid frequent charging, pick a simple model. But if features like always-on display or health tracking are vital, be prepared for shorter battery runs.
Health and Fitness FeaturesHealth and fitness features include step counting, sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, and sometimes SpO2 (blood oxygen) sensors. These features appeal to users interested in basic wellness and staying active. Entry-level models may offer only steps and sleep; mid-range may include heart rate; the fuller set (with SpO2 or even blood pressure) generally appear at the high end of the cheap range. Consider which stats you'll actually use—if you just want to know your steps, any model will do. For fitness tracking, aim for at least heart rate monitoring.
Water ResistanceWater resistance determines if the watch can withstand sweat, rain, or even swimming. Inexpensive watches typically offer basic splash resistance (often rated IP67/IP68), letting you wash your hands or handle a little rain. More robust water resistance (like 5 ATM) means you can swim with it. Think about your environment and activities: If you rarely get your watch wet, basic resistance suffices. If you plan to swim or wear it in the shower, look for water resistance ratings that guarantee protection during submersion.
Notifications and ConnectivityNotifications let you see calls, texts, and app alerts from your phone on your wrist. Connectivity, typically via Bluetooth, controls how reliably the watch stays linked to your phone. Most cheap smart watches offer basic notifications, but not always the ability to respond to messages. Some have extras like controlling music or finding your phone. Decide how interactive you want your watch to be—if you only need to view notifications, any entry-level model covers it, but for more control, check which options the watch supports.
Build Quality and Band OptionsBuild quality relates to the materials used for the case and strap, affecting both comfort and durability. Cheap smart watches often have plastic or lightweight alloys, with silicone or synthetic bands. These are usually fine for everyday use and workouts, but may not feel as premium or survive rugged usage. If comfort and style matter, look for softer bands and rounded designs. Some watches let you swap straps, so you can personalize the look or upgrade comfort later.