The best cheap smartwatches of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed
Smartwatch technology has drastically evolved over the years -- some of the best smartwatches can even stand alone without a companion smartphone. Affordable smartwatches have also come a long way, offering features found in flagship smartwatches and sports watches at significant savings. The best cheap smartwatches offer advanced fitness tracking, long battery life, stylish design elements, and companion smartphone apps.
Luckily, brands like Apple, Google, and Samsung offer affordable smartwatch models. OnePlus and Amazfit also are major players in the affordable smartwatch game. These wallet-friendly wearables prove that you can stay connected and healthy without spending a fortune. Keep reading to learn which affordable smartwatch is the best fit for you.
In our January update, we replaced three of the watches on our list with the latest and greatest affordable models we've tested.
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Best smartwatch deals of the week
- Google Pixel Watch 4 (41mm, Wi-Fi, Matte Black): $300 (save $50)
- Garmin Venu Sq 2 GPS Smartwatch (Shadow Gray): $150 (save $100)
- CMF Watch 2 Pro Smartwatch (Blue): $49 (save $30)
- Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band): $339 (save $60)
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 (40mm, Bluetooth, Graphite Band): $250 (save $100)
What is the best cheap smartwatch right now?
We tested some of the top budget-friendly smartwatches that are extremely high performers. Every watch in this list is a capable smartwatch that can be paired to your smartphone and can be found for under $300. While the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is our pick for the best smartwatch overall, we selected the Amazfit Active 2 as our best cheap smartwatch because of its extremely low price, ability to connect with iPhone and Android smartphones, solid health and wellness features, and long battery life.
Sort by AllThe best cheap smartwatches of 2026
Show lessWhy we like it: The Amazfit Active 2 is tough to beat when it comes to a value smartwatch. Compared to its predecessor, the 2023 Active, it features a round form factor, including a barometric altimeter and ambient light sensor, a brighter 2,000 nits display, and additional indoor and outdoor sports, including ski maps. The watch costs just $99 and often even less on sale.
During the few weeks I tested the Active 2, I was very impressed by the quality of the smartwatch, with its stainless-steel bezel, sapphire glass screen, and brilliant AMOLED display. It also features actionable complications on the watch face, so you can tap right on the complication and go straight to the widget showing more details.
Who it's for: The Amazfit Active 2 includes heart rate and sleep tracking, which I found to be accurate compared to other watches I've tested. It can honestly be overwhelming to wrap your head around the broad range of activities that are supported by the watch. It includes over 160 workout modes including Hyrox racing, strength training, running, yoga, and 50-meter water-resistance for swimming. You can customize the data pages and other specific settings after you select and launch each activity on the watch.
If you have ever considered a smartwatch but haven't made the move to try one, you really can't go wrong spending the $99 for a watch that performs well, looks good, and lasts for up to 10 days between charges. The Active 2 is available in both round and square form factors, so that should satisfy customers too.
Who should look elsewhere: If you are looking for a smartwatch with third-party apps, they are limited in the Amazfit ecosystem. The Active 2 is also fairly small, but check out the new Amazfit Active Max for a larger watch with longer battery life.
Amazfit Active 2 tech specs: Display: 1.32-inch 390 x 390 pixels | Battery life: 10 days | Dimensions: 1.73 x 1.73 x 0.39 in. | Weight: 1.04 oz. | Water/Dust resistance: 5 ATM | LTE cellular option: No
Pros
- Sleek, slim, and lightweight
- Long 10-day battery life
- Brilliant AMOLED display
- Priced under $100
- Limited app selection
Why we like it: The Amazfit Active 2 is tough to beat when it comes to a value smartwatch. Compared to its predecessor, the 2023 Active, it features a round form factor, including a barometric altimeter and ambient light sensor, a brighter 2,000 nits display, and additional indoor and outdoor sports, including ski maps. The watch costs just $99 and often even less on sale.
During the few weeks I tested the Active 2, I was very impressed by the quality of the smartwatch, with its stainless-steel bezel, sapphire glass screen, and brilliant AMOLED display. It also features actionable complications on the watch face, so you can tap right on the complication and go straight to the widget showing more details.
Who it's for: The Amazfit Active 2 includes heart rate and sleep tracking, which I found to be accurate compared to other watches I've tested. It can honestly be overwhelming to wrap your head around the broad range of activities that are supported by the watch. It includes over 160 workout modes including Hyrox racing, strength training, running, yoga, and 50-meter water-resistance for swimming. You can customize the data pages and other specific settings after you select and launch each activity on the watch.
If you have ever considered a smartwatch but haven't made the move to try one, you really can't go wrong spending the $99 for a watch that performs well, looks good, and lasts for up to 10 days between charges. The Active 2 is available in both round and square form factors, so that should satisfy customers too.
Who should look elsewhere: If you are looking for a smartwatch with third-party apps, they are limited in the Amazfit ecosystem. The Active 2 is also fairly small, but check out the new Amazfit Active Max for a larger watch with longer battery life.
Amazfit Active 2 tech specs: Display: 1.32-inch 390 x 390 pixels | Battery life: 10 days | Dimensions: 1.73 x 1.73 x 0.39 in. | Weight: 1.04 oz. | Water/Dust resistance: 5 ATM | LTE cellular option: No
Why we like it: While I personally prefer big watches, millions of other people look for a small, unobtrusive smartwatch that offers a refined user interface at a lower price. The Apple Watch SE has a majority of the same features and functions as the larger Apple Watch models. It can even be purchased with cellular support.
The Apple Watch SE 3 is also marketed towards families, as it can fit well on kids' wrists, and Family Setup lets you support multiple watches with one parent's iPhone. There is also a new wrist temperature sensor on the watch to help with nightly sleep tracking and collecting data in the Vitals app.
Who it's for: This watch is packed with features with a particular focus on health and fitness, including heart health monitoring, irregular rhythm notifications, cycle tracking, and even crash detection. It's waterproof for up to 50 meters, so you can take it along for swimming laps, and it allows you to stream music. You get to pick your case color from two options, and it is easily compatible with the other best Apple watch bands.
The base SE is 40mm, but you can also pick up a slightly larger 44mm model for $30 more. GPS and Wi-Fi models are available with cellular selling for $50 more, plus an associated cellular plan from your preferred wireless carrier.
Who should look elsewhere: If you are not an iPhone user, don't even consider an Apple Watch Ultra 3 since it doesn't connect to an iPad or MacOS computer. There are great options from Google and Samsung if you own an Android smartphone.
Apple Watch SE 3 tech specs: Display: OLED Ion-X glass | Battery life: 18 hours | Dimensions: 40 x 34 x 10.7mm and 44 x 38 x 10.7mm | Weight: 26.4 and 32.9 grams | Water/Dust resistance: 50m | LTE cellular option: Yes
Pros
- Best support for applications
- Excellent fitness tracking and accuracy
- Comfortable fit
- Limited to iPhone users
Why we like it: While I personally prefer big watches, millions of other people look for a small, unobtrusive smartwatch that offers a refined user interface at a lower price. The Apple Watch SE has a majority of the same features and functions as the larger Apple Watch models. It can even be purchased with cellular support.
The Apple Watch SE 3 is also marketed towards families, as it can fit well on kids' wrists, and Family Setup lets you support multiple watches with one parent's iPhone. There is also a new wrist temperature sensor on the watch to help with nightly sleep tracking and collecting data in the Vitals app.
Who it's for: This watch is packed with features with a particular focus on health and fitness, including heart health monitoring, irregular rhythm notifications, cycle tracking, and even crash detection. It's waterproof for up to 50 meters, so you can take it along for swimming laps, and it allows you to stream music. You get to pick your case color from two options, and it is easily compatible with the other best Apple watch bands.
The base SE is 40mm, but you can also pick up a slightly larger 44mm model for $30 more. GPS and Wi-Fi models are available with cellular selling for $50 more, plus an associated cellular plan from your preferred wireless carrier.
Who should look elsewhere: If you are not an iPhone user, don't even consider an Apple Watch Ultra 3 since it doesn't connect to an iPad or MacOS computer. There are great options from Google and Samsung if you own an Android smartphone.
Apple Watch SE 3 tech specs: Display: OLED Ion-X glass | Battery life: 18 hours | Dimensions: 40 x 34 x 10.7mm and 44 x 38 x 10.7mm | Weight: 26.4 and 32.9 grams | Water/Dust resistance: 50m | LTE cellular option: Yes
Read MoreWhy we like it: The OnePlus Watch 3 43mm is a great, less-expensive Google Wear smartwatch. Despite a slightly smaller battery than the OnePlus Watch 3, the 43mm version still offers long battery life and is likely to fit better on most people. It also competes with GPS sports watches that have AMOLED displays.
Who it's for: The OnePlus Watch 3 43mm supports more than 100 sports modes. However, the data screens that appear in those modes are not customizable and are limited to some default standard metrics. But after your workout, you can find a lot of data in the eHealth app, like running dynamics, heart rate, and running power. OnePlus has not yet gained FDA approval, so ECG measurements are not provided in the US or Canada.
The OnePlus Watch 3 is incredibly durable, with IP68 and 5ATM ratings, along with MIL-STD-810H certification. It's a beautiful, functional smartwatch, particularly for the $300 price tag.
Who should look elsewhere: If you use an iPhone, don't even think about the OnePlus Watch 3 43mm. Google WearOS watches used to work with iOS, but that is no longer the case so you need an Android phone to use this watch.
OnePlus Watch 3 43mm tech specs: Display: 1.32-inch 466 x 466 pixels AMOLED | Battery life: Up to 16 days in Power Saver Mode | Dimensions: 43.2 x 43.2 x 11mm | Weight: 37.8 grams (without band) | Water/Dust resistance: IP68/5 ATM | LTE cellular option: No
Pros
- Superb, flagship design
- Long battery life
- Rotating digital crown
- ECG measurements not supported, and health app needs work
- Limited workout data screens
Why we like it: The OnePlus Watch 3 43mm is a great, less-expensive Google Wear smartwatch. Despite a slightly smaller battery than the OnePlus Watch 3, the 43mm version still offers long battery life and is likely to fit better on most people. It also competes with GPS sports watches that have AMOLED displays.
Who it's for: The OnePlus Watch 3 43mm supports more than 100 sports modes. However, the data screens that appear in those modes are not customizable and are limited to some default standard metrics. But after your workout, you can find a lot of data in the eHealth app, like running dynamics, heart rate, and running power. OnePlus has not yet gained FDA approval, so ECG measurements are not provided in the US or Canada.
The OnePlus Watch 3 is incredibly durable, with IP68 and 5ATM ratings, along with MIL-STD-810H certification. It's a beautiful, functional smartwatch, particularly for the $300 price tag.
Who should look elsewhere: If you use an iPhone, don't even think about the OnePlus Watch 3 43mm. Google WearOS watches used to work with iOS, but that is no longer the case so you need an Android phone to use this watch.
OnePlus Watch 3 43mm tech specs: Display: 1.32-inch 466 x 466 pixels AMOLED | Battery life: Up to 16 days in Power Saver Mode | Dimensions: 43.2 x 43.2 x 11mm | Weight: 37.8 grams (without band) | Water/Dust resistance: IP68/5 ATM | LTE cellular option: No
Read MoreThe current Samsung flagship is the Galaxy Watch 8 series, but Samsung still has the excellent previous year model available, and it starts at just $250 for the 40mm model.
Why we like it: The Samsung Watch 7 is a sleek and stylish watch that supports the powerful Samsung Health ecosystem with a focus on wellness. The smaller watch is perfect for sleep tracking, and the Energy Score helps you plan for the day ahead.
The Galaxy Watch 7 features a 40mm or 44mm watch face and comes in green and silver. Like the Galaxy Watch 8, the Watch 7 features a Sapphire Crystal glass face.
Who it's for: The Galaxy Watch 7 runs the Samsung-powered Google Wear OS 6.0 with One UI Watch 8.0, meaning it still looks like a Samsung smartwatch, but also supports Google Assistant, Google Maps, Google Wallet, Google Play Store, and more Google apps.
It has an operating system optimized for the round watch design with a virtual rotating bezel. Fall detection, messaging, phone calls, and more are available on the watch, with advanced fitness data such as VO2 Max and advanced running dynamics data also supported.
Who should look elsewhere: If you use an iPhone, don't even think about the Galaxy Watch 7. Google WearOS watches used to work with iOS, but that is no longer the case, so you need an Android phone to use this watch.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 tech specs: Display: 1.3-inch 432 x 432 pixels Super AMOLEDl | Battery life: 40 hours| Dimensions: 40.4 x 40.4 x 9.7mm | Weight: 28.8 grams | Water/Dust resistance: 5 ATM | LTE cellular option:Yes
Pros
- Brilliant AMOLED display
- Fantastic health tracking
- Easy accessibility
- Swimproof
- Smaller display
The current Samsung flagship is the Galaxy Watch 8 series, but Samsung still has the excellent previous year model available, and it starts at just $250 for the 40mm model.
Why we like it: The Samsung Watch 7 is a sleek and stylish watch that supports the powerful Samsung Health ecosystem with a focus on wellness. The smaller watch is perfect for sleep tracking, and the Energy Score helps you plan for the day ahead.
The Galaxy Watch 7 features a 40mm or 44mm watch face and comes in green and silver. Like the Galaxy Watch 8, the Watch 7 features a Sapphire Crystal glass face.
Who it's for: The Galaxy Watch 7 runs the Samsung-powered Google Wear OS 6.0 with One UI Watch 8.0, meaning it still looks like a Samsung smartwatch, but also supports Google Assistant, Google Maps, Google Wallet, Google Play Store, and more Google apps.
It has an operating system optimized for the round watch design with a virtual rotating bezel. Fall detection, messaging, phone calls, and more are available on the watch, with advanced fitness data such as VO2 Max and advanced running dynamics data also supported.
Who should look elsewhere: If you use an iPhone, don't even think about the Galaxy Watch 7. Google WearOS watches used to work with iOS, but that is no longer the case, so you need an Android phone to use this watch.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 tech specs: Display: 1.3-inch 432 x 432 pixels Super AMOLEDl | Battery life: 40 hours| Dimensions: 40.4 x 40.4 x 9.7mm | Weight: 28.8 grams | Water/Dust resistance: 5 ATM | LTE cellular option:Yes
Why we like it: One way to enjoy a less expensive smartwatch is by buying a previous model. Google now offers the flagship Pixel Watch 4, but the Pixel Watch 3 is available for a reasonable $250 for the 41mm model and $300 for the larger 45mm model. Offering two sizes was one of our favorite upgrades in the Pixel Watch 3, so more people should be able to find a watch that fits them best.
Who it's for: While it is clearly the best Fitbit made, it also challenges every other watch regarding support for runners. Google incorporated a running workout builder that gathers your health data over a two-week period and then creates a program that adapts to your data regularly. Real-time guidance is provided as you run, advanced metrics are tracked and then Google shows you how to improve the metrics, a Daily Readiness Score is provided even if you are not a Fitbit Premium subscriber, and Cardio/Target load features are available. The Cardio and Target load features may even trump some of the best sports watches.
Bottom line: If you're a Fitbit fan and are looking for the latest and greatest Fitbit in a watch form factor, then the Google Pixel Watch 3 is the wearable for you. If you also enjoy Google's take on wearables and want years of updates, then this is the watch to consider.
One of the best functions of the Pixel Watch 3 that even beats out the Apple Watch is the focus on safety. While the Apple Watch can appear in your Find My application, and you can share your location with family and friends, that's a passive setting that requires people to physically check the app to find you. The Pixel 3's Safety Check feature allows you to set a check-in timer whenever you're moving from point A to B and want your emergency contacts to be notified if anything goes wrong -- the most reliable feature I've seen on any wearable I've tested. It also supports immediate emergency alerts/SOS and fall detection alerts, similar to the latest Apple Watches.
The new Loss of Pulse Detection feature is available for US owners. This feature has the potential to save lives and I look forward to hearing of success stories soon since my own father could have possibly been saved by this feature.
Who should look elsewhere: If you use an iPhone, don't even think about the Pixel Watch 4. Google WearOS watches used to work with iOS, but that is no longer the case, so you need an Android phone to use this watch. It's also not the best option for those looking for a rugged watch due to its proud display and minimalist form factor.
Google Pixel Watch 3 tech specs: Display: 1.2-inch (41mm) and 1.45-inch (45mm) AMOLED | Battery life: 24 hours with AOD | Dimensions: 41 x 41 x 12.3mm and 45 x 45 x 12.3mm | Weight: 31 g (without band) and 37 g | Water/Dust resistance: 5 ATM/IP68 | LTE cellular option: Yes
Pros
- Clean, basic aesthetic
- Lovely AMOLED display
- Fitbit ecosystem integrated
- Advanced safety features
- Small watch
- Limited battery life
- Doesn't support iPhone connectivity
Why we like it: One way to enjoy a less expensive smartwatch is by buying a previous model. Google now offers the flagship Pixel Watch 4, but the Pixel Watch 3 is available for a reasonable $250 for the 41mm model and $300 for the larger 45mm model. Offering two sizes was one of our favorite upgrades in the Pixel Watch 3, so more people should be able to find a watch that fits them best.
Who it's for: While it is clearly the best Fitbit made, it also challenges every other watch regarding support for runners. Google incorporated a running workout builder that gathers your health data over a two-week period and then creates a program that adapts to your data regularly. Real-time guidance is provided as you run, advanced metrics are tracked and then Google shows you how to improve the metrics, a Daily Readiness Score is provided even if you are not a Fitbit Premium subscriber, and Cardio/Target load features are available. The Cardio and Target load features may even trump some of the best sports watches.
Bottom line: If you're a Fitbit fan and are looking for the latest and greatest Fitbit in a watch form factor, then the Google Pixel Watch 3 is the wearable for you. If you also enjoy Google's take on wearables and want years of updates, then this is the watch to consider.
One of the best functions of the Pixel Watch 3 that even beats out the Apple Watch is the focus on safety. While the Apple Watch can appear in your Find My application, and you can share your location with family and friends, that's a passive setting that requires people to physically check the app to find you. The Pixel 3's Safety Check feature allows you to set a check-in timer whenever you're moving from point A to B and want your emergency contacts to be notified if anything goes wrong -- the most reliable feature I've seen on any wearable I've tested. It also supports immediate emergency alerts/SOS and fall detection alerts, similar to the latest Apple Watches.
The new Loss of Pulse Detection feature is available for US owners. This feature has the potential to save lives and I look forward to hearing of success stories soon since my own father could have possibly been saved by this feature.
Who should look elsewhere: If you use an iPhone, don't even think about the Pixel Watch 4. Google WearOS watches used to work with iOS, but that is no longer the case, so you need an Android phone to use this watch. It's also not the best option for those looking for a rugged watch due to its proud display and minimalist form factor.
Google Pixel Watch 3 tech specs: Display: 1.2-inch (41mm) and 1.45-inch (45mm) AMOLED | Battery life: 24 hours with AOD | Dimensions: 41 x 41 x 12.3mm and 45 x 45 x 12.3mm | Weight: 31 g (without band) and 37 g | Water/Dust resistance: 5 ATM/IP68 | LTE cellular option: Yes
With its built-in GPS and daily fitness suggestions, the Garmin Forerunner 55 is our pick for the best cheap smartwatch for runners. The powerful Garmin Connect smartphone app and Garmin ecosystem help make this watch an amazing option for runners and for fans of smaller elegant watches.
Liz Ho, founder of Camping Guidance, says she takes the watch with her on the trail. "I have used various smartwatches in my escapades in the great outdoors, but I found the Garmin Forerunner 55 to be especially useful for nature enthusiasts such as myself," she said.
Also: The best Garmin watches
The Forerunner 55 includes a built-in GPS, heart rate monitoring, and dedicated apps for hiking and other activities. There are daily suggestions for your workouts and personalized guidance based on your own activity levels. To keep you plugged in, the color display is designed to show up well in the sun so you can still see your messages and alerts outdoors.
If you don't mind spending a bit more, I was also a fan of the Garmin Forerunner 165.
Garmin Forerunner 55 tech specs: Display: 1.04-inch 208 x 208 pixels memory-in-pixel | Battery life: 14 days | Dimensions: 42 x 42 x 11.6mm | Weight: 37 grams | Water/Dust resistance: 5 ATM | LTE cellular option: No
Pros
- Superior fitness tools
- User-friendly
- Excellent battery
- OK display
- Single case size
With its built-in GPS and daily fitness suggestions, the Garmin Forerunner 55 is our pick for the best cheap smartwatch for runners. The powerful Garmin Connect smartphone app and Garmin ecosystem help make this watch an amazing option for runners and for fans of smaller elegant watches.
Liz Ho, founder of Camping Guidance, says she takes the watch with her on the trail. "I have used various smartwatches in my escapades in the great outdoors, but I found the Garmin Forerunner 55 to be especially useful for nature enthusiasts such as myself," she said.
Also: The best Garmin watches
The Forerunner 55 includes a built-in GPS, heart rate monitoring, and dedicated apps for hiking and other activities. There are daily suggestions for your workouts and personalized guidance based on your own activity levels. To keep you plugged in, the color display is designed to show up well in the sun so you can still see your messages and alerts outdoors.
If you don't mind spending a bit more, I was also a fan of the Garmin Forerunner 165.
Garmin Forerunner 55 tech specs: Display: 1.04-inch 208 x 208 pixels memory-in-pixel | Battery life: 14 days | Dimensions: 42 x 42 x 11.6mm | Weight: 37 grams | Water/Dust resistance: 5 ATM | LTE cellular option: No
Read MoreWhat is the best cheap smartwatch?
ZDNET's pick for the best cheap smartwatch is the Amazfit Active 2. It offers all the usual features including advanced health and wellness tracking, message triage support, and applications. The long battery life and very low price set it apart and make it our pick for the best cheap smartwatch available today.
To see how the Amazfit Active 2 compares, here is a bird's-eye view of the best cheap smartwatches.
Best cheap smartwatch | Cost | Screen size | Water resistance |
Amazfit Active 2 | $100 | 33.5 millimeters | 50 meters |
Apple Watch SE 3 | $249 | 40 millimeters, 44 millimeters | 50 meters |
OnePlus Watch 3 43mm | $300 | 43.2 millimeters | 50 meters |
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 | $250 | 40 millimeters, 44 millimeters | 50 meters |
Google Pixel Watch 3 | $250 | 41 millimeters, 45 millimeters | 50 meters |
Garmin Forerunner 55 | $168 | 26 millimeters | 50 meters |
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