Not so long ago, smartwatches were considered a luxury item. Now, they’re practically essential—whether for tracking fitness goals, managing notifications, or just adding a sleek accessory to your wrist. The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune to get one. We’ve researched and tested some of the best budget smartwatches of 2024 to find options that deliver great performance without breaking the bank.
Here are our top picks, chosen for their blend of value, features, and style.
1. Amazfit Bip U Pro
- Price: ~£55 / ~$70
- Key Features:
- GPS and heart rate monitoring.
- Blood oxygen (SpO2) measurement.
- 60+ sports modes.
- 9-day battery life.
- Why It’s Great:
Lightweight and versatile, it’s perfect for fitness enthusiasts who want advanced features without the high price tag.
2. Xiaomi Mi Band 8
- Price: ~£40 / ~$50
- Key Features:
- AMOLED display with vibrant visuals.
- Tracks sleep, steps, and heart rate.
- Up to 14-day battery life.
- Why It’s Great:
Compact, stylish, and packed with essentials—ideal for anyone new to smartwatches.
3. Realme Watch 3
- Price: ~£65 / ~$80
- Key Features:
- Large 1.8-inch touchscreen.
- Bluetooth calling.
- SpO2 and heart rate monitoring.
- Why It’s Great:
A big screen and hands-free calling make it a smart choice for professionals on the go.
4. Fitbit Inspire 3
- Price: ~£75 / ~$99
- Key Features:
- Advanced fitness tracking.
- Stress management tools.
- Water resistance for swimming.
- Why It’s Great:
Trusted by fitness enthusiasts for its detailed insights and seamless app integration.
5. Noise ColorFit Pro 4
- Price: ~£65 / ~$85
- Key Features:
- Stunning 1.72-inch HD display.
- SpO2 and heart rate tracking.
- Customizable watch faces.
- Why It’s Great:
A balance of style and performance, ideal for anyone who values aesthetics.
Comparison Table
| Smartwatch | Price | Key Features | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazfit Bip U Pro | ~£55 / ~$70 | GPS, SpO2, 60+ sports modes | 9 days |
| Xiaomi Mi Band 8 | ~£40 / ~$50 | AMOLED display, sleep tracking | 14 days |
| Realme Watch 3 | ~£65 / ~$80 | Bluetooth calling, large display | 5 days |
| Fitbit Inspire 3 | ~£75 / ~$99 | Stress management, fitness tracking | 10 days |
| Noise ColorFit Pro 4 | ~£65 / ~$85 | HD display, SpO2 tracking | 7 days |
The Bottom Line
Budget smartwatches have come a long way, offering incredible features at affordable prices. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a busy professional, or just someone looking to enhance your tech game, there’s an option here for you. Choose the one that fits your needs and budget, and start enjoying the benefits of wearable tech today.
FAQs
What is the best smartwatch under £100?
The Amazfit Bip U Pro offers an unbeatable combination of GPS, SpO2 tracking, and long battery life, making it our top pick under £100.
Are budget smartwatches reliable?
Yes, modern budget smartwatches are surprisingly reliable, offering accurate tracking and essential features. However, they may lack the advanced app ecosystems of higher-end models.
Which budget smartwatch is best for fitness tracking?
The Fitbit Inspire 3 is ideal for fitness enthusiasts, offering detailed health insights and seamless integration with the Fitbit app.