Top Smartwatches Under $50: Affordable Picks for Quality & Style

Finding a great smartwatch under $50 is possible. Many affordable options offer impressive features. They can help track fitness, monitor sleep, and send notifications. These watches provide good value without breaking the bank. They are ideal for budget-conscious buyers. Smartwatches in this price range are perfect for everyday use. They may not have all the high-end features but still perform well.

Key Features to Look for in Budget Smartwatches

Choosing the right smartwatch depends on your priorities. Consider battery life, compatibility, and design. Many brands offer excellent watches that fit different styles. It’s important to read user reviews and compare models. This helps in making an informed decision. Remember, a smartwatch does not need to be expensive to be useful.

• Determine your needs: Think about what features you want. Fitness tracking? Notifications? Heart rate monitoring? Your needs will guide your choice.
• Check compatibility: Ensure the smartwatch works with your phone. Some watches only work with Android or iOS.
• Battery life matters: Look for a smartwatch with good battery life. Two days minimum is ideal.
• Consider the design: Choose a style you like. Round or square face? Metal or plastic band?
• Check for water resistance: A water-resistant watch is useful. You can wear it while washing hands or in the rain.
• Look at display quality: A clear, bright display is important. You want to see the screen easily, even in sunlight.
• Evaluate the features: Some watches have extra features. GPS, music control, or sleep tracking? Decide what’s important for you.
• Compare prices: Prices can vary. Compare different models to find the best deal.
• Warranty and support: Check if the watch comes with a warranty. Good customer support is also important.
• Test the interface: A user-friendly interface is key.
• Consider the brand: Some brands have a better reputation. Research brands known for quality and reliability.

Top Smartwatches Under $50 for 2025

Below are some of the best smartwatches under $50, each offering a balance of functionality, style, and affordability. These models have been tested and reviewed for their performance in real-world scenarios.

1. Xiaomi Smart Band 8

The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 is an exceptional budget fitness tracker that combines affordability with essential health-tracking features. This is the perfect pick if you want a lightweight, comfortable, and stylish fitness band.

• 150+ Fitness Modes – Supports a wide range of sports and activities.
• 24-Hour Health Monitoring – Includes heart rate, SpO2, and sleep tracking.
• 6-Day Battery Life (AOD Mode On) – Long-lasting power for continuous use.
• 5ATM Water Resistance – Perfect for swimming and showers.
• Sleek and Lightweight Design – Comfortable to wear all day.

Pros: Stylish design, accurate fitness tracking, long battery life.
Cons: Limited app ecosystem, no built-in GPS.
Testing Scenario: Worn during a week of mixed activities, including running, cycling, and swimming. Heart rate accuracy was consistent during moderate exercise, with sleep tracking providing detailed breakdowns of light and deep sleep stages. Battery lasted 5-6 days with always-on display enabled.
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2. Amazfit Bip U Pro

The Amazfit Bip U Pro is one of the best affordable smartwatches for Android & iPhone users under $50. It is a fantastic choice for users who need accurate fitness tracking, built-in GPS, and smart assistant integration. Despite its affordable price, its impressive features make it a worthy alternative to expensive models.

• Built-in GPS – Accurate tracking for outdoor activities.
• 60+ Sports Modes – Comprehensive fitness tracking.
• 9-Day Battery Life – Ideal for extended use.
• 5ATM Water Resistance – Suitable for swimming.
• Alexa Built-in – Hands-free smart assistant.

Pros: Built-in GPS, long battery life, vibrant display.
Cons: Plastic build feels less premium, limited app support.
Testing Scenario: Used for a 5K run with GPS enabled. The watch accurately tracked distance and pace, matching a high-end Garmin model. Sleep tracking was reliable, though heart rate readings fluctuated slightly during high-intensity workouts. Battery lasted 8 days with moderate use.
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3. Woneligo W13

The Woneligo W13 is a fantastic budget smartwatch for men, combining a rugged design with health and fitness tracking. It also includes Bluetooth calling and Alexa integration, making it a powerful yet affordable smartwatch.

• 1.8-inch HD Display – Large, bright screen for easy readability.
• Alexa Built-in – Hands-free smart assistant.
• Bluetooth Calling – Make and receive calls directly from the watch.
• Fitness & Health Tracking – Monitor heart rate, blood oxygen, sleep, and steps.
• 5ATM Water Resistance – Suitable for outdoor activities.

Pros: Large display, Bluetooth calling, rugged design.
Cons: Bulky for smaller wrists, battery life shorter with heavy use.
Testing Scenario: Tested during a weekend hiking trip. The watch handled notifications and calls seamlessly via Bluetooth. Heart rate monitoring was accurate during moderate activity, but sleep tracking lacked depth. Battery lasted 3 days with frequent use.
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4. Popglory P22 Smartwatch

My overall favorite smartwatch under $50 was the Popglory P22. This square watch is small and compact, with a metal casing that looks premium and reminds me of the Apple Watch. It can mirror your notifications, track your sleep and fitness goals, and has over 100 watch faces to choose from, far more than the competitors.

• Metal case gives the watch a premium Apple-esque finish.
• Over 100 watch faces including some that can be customized.
• Only watch to provide sleep tracking in addition to daily fitness goals.
• Torch feature puts the screen to full-brightness white, useful in low-light settings.

Pros: Premium design, extensive watch face options, sleep tracking.
Cons: Limited app notification support, no GPS.
Testing Scenario: Worn for a week of daily activities, including office work and light workouts. The watch’s notification mirroring worked for major apps like WhatsApp, but struggled with less common ones. Sleep tracking provided a quality score based on sleep duration and depth, aligning with user expectations. Battery lasted 4 days.
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5. Oukitel BT20

In the end, I’m quite surprised at how good this sub-$50 watch is. If you’re on a tight budget and still want to enjoy the benefits of a smartwatch, the Oukitel BT20 is a real winner. Other than my Pixel Watch (both the 1 and 2), I cannot think of a smartwatch that impressed me more than this one.

• Battery life is stellar, lasting up to 15 days on standby, 10 days with daily use, and 7 days with heavy use.
• Accurate heart rate and step tracking, comparable to premium models.
• IP68 water resistance, suitable for showers and swimming.
• Large, durable design with a bright display.

Pros: Exceptional battery life, accurate tracking, durable build.
Cons: Bulky design, raise-to-wake feature inconsistent.
Testing Scenario: Worn for a week alongside a Pixel Watch 2 for comparison. The Oukitel BT20’s heart rate and step counts were nearly identical to the Pixel Watch during daily activities. Battery life remained at 75% after a week of regular use, outperforming most competitors. The raise-to-wake function was unreliable, requiring manual screen activation at times.
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Comparison Table of Top Smartwatches Under $50

Buying Guide for Smartwatches Under $50

Smartwatches are no longer just for tech enthusiasts. They help with fitness tracking, notifications, and even sleep monitoring. You don’t need to spend a fortune to get these features. Many affordable options offer great performance and style without breaking the bank. This buying guide will help you make an informed decision.

• Fitness Tracking: Most budget smartwatches offer heart rate monitoring, step counting, and sleep tracking. If you’re into sports, look for models with multiple sports modes or GPS, like the Amazfit Bip U Pro.
• Compatibility: Ensure the watch works with your smartphone. Most models support both Android and iOS, but some features (e.g., Alexa) may be limited on one platform.
• Battery Life: Budget smartwatches often excel in battery life. Look for models offering at least 4-7 days, like the Oukitel BT20 or Amazfit Bip U Pro.
• Design and Comfort: Choose a design that suits your style. Square watches like the Popglory P22 mimic premium models, while round designs like the Oukitel BT20 feel rugged.
• Water Resistance: A rating of IP68 or 5ATM ensures the watch can handle rain, showers, or swimming.
• Display Quality: AMOLED displays (e.g., Xiaomi Smart Band 8) offer vibrant colors, but TFT screens are still functional for budget models.
• Smart Features: Look for notification mirroring, music control, or voice assistants. Bluetooth calling, as in the Woneligo W13, is a bonus.

For more tips on choosing a smartwatch, check out CNET’s Smartwatch Buying Guide.

Pros and Cons of Budget Smartwatches

Advantages

• Affordable pricing makes smartwatches accessible to all.
• Essential features like heart rate, sleep, and step tracking are reliable.
• Long battery life, often lasting a week or more.
• Water resistance for everyday use and light swimming.
• Stylish designs that rival premium models.

Disadvantages

• Limited app ecosystems compared to Wear OS or watchOS.
• No advanced features like ECG or blood oxygen monitoring in most models.
• Build quality may feel less premium (e.g., plastic casings).
• GPS is rare, and when available, it may drain battery faster.
• Notification support can be inconsistent for niche apps.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can smartwatches under $50 track fitness accurately?

Yes, most budget smartwatches provide reliable heart rate, step, and sleep tracking for casual users. However, they may not match the precision of premium models like Garmin or Apple Watch during high-intensity workouts.

2. Are budget smartwatches compatible with both Android and iOS?

Most models, like the Amazfit Bip U Pro and Xiaomi Smart Band 8, work with both Android and iOS. Always check the product description to confirm compatibility and feature availability.

3. How long do budget smartwatches last on a single charge?

Battery life varies, but many budget smartwatches last 4-15 days. The Oukitel BT20, for example, can last up to 15 days on standby, while the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 lasts about 6 days with the always-on display.

4. Can I swim with a smartwatch under $50?

Yes, if the watch has a 5ATM or IP68 rating, it’s suitable for swimming and showers. Models like the Woneligo W13 and Amazfit Bip U Pro meet these standards.

5. Do these smartwatches support third-party apps?

Most budget smartwatches under $50 run proprietary operating systems, limiting third-party app support. You’ll get basic features like notifications and music control, but not the full app ecosystems of Wear OS or watchOS.

Conclusion

Finding a smartwatch under $50 that balances quality, style, and functionality is easier than ever in 2025. Models like the Xiaomi Smart Band 8, Amazfit Bip U Pro, and Oukitel BT20 offer impressive features for the price, from long battery life to reliable fitness tracking. By considering your needs¡ªwhether it’s GPS, water resistance, or a premium design¡ªyou can find the perfect budget smartwatch. Explore the options above, compare their features, and check the latest deals to make a smart purchase. For more insights, visit Tom’s Guide for expert reviews.