10 Best Budget Smartwatches 2025 in the United States

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 is a solid budget smartwatch that offers a variety of features aimed at fitness enthusiasts and those looking to monitor their health. One of its standout traits is its advanced fitness tracking capabilities, powered by Galaxy AI. This feature allows users to compare their performance on activities like running and biking, which can be motivating for those looking to improve. Additionally, the watch boasts impressive heart rate tracking and sleep monitoring, even detecting sleep apnea, which can be a significant plus for health-conscious individuals.

Battery life is another highlight, although specific usage time may vary. The watch is lightweight and has a touchscreen display that is user-friendly, making it appealing to those who might not be very tech-savvy. Its compatibility with various devices via Bluetooth is a significant benefit, allowing users to receive notifications seamlessly from their smartphones.

On the downside, while the smartwatch provides a good range of features, it may not be as rugged as some users might prefer, especially if they lead an active lifestyle. Water resistance is present, but checking the specific rating is advisable if you plan to engage in water activities. Furthermore, while the wellness tips and personalized insights offered are valuable, some users may find that they prefer more direct interaction with their health data. In terms of build quality, while it’s generally good, it’s essential to consider that being a budget option, it may not have the premium feel of higher-end models. This smartwatch is ideal for those who want a blend of fitness tracking and daily smartwatch functionalities without breaking the bank.

The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is a strong choice if you're looking for a budget-friendly smartwatch that still covers the basics well. Its 40mm Retina display offers bright and clear visuals, making it easy to read notifications and track your fitness stats. The built-in GPS is great for tracking outdoor workouts without needing your phone nearby. Battery life typically lasts about a day, so you'll likely need to charge it each night, which is common for smartwatches in this range.

Fitness tracking is solid, including heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and detailed workout metrics, alongside safety features like Fall and Crash Detection that add peace of mind. It’s swimproof with 50m water resistance, so you can wear it while swimming or in the rain without worry. However, the watch only works with iPhones (Xs or later running iOS 17+), so it’s not suitable if you use Android devices.

Notifications and connectivity functions work smoothly if you’re in the Apple ecosystem, letting you send texts, take calls, and use Siri hands-free. While it lacks some advanced health sensors found on pricier models, this smartwatch offers excellent value, especially if you want a reliable, versatile device that blends fitness tracking and smart features in a stylish, customizable design.

The Garmin vívoactive 5 is a versatile budget-friendly smartwatch that stands out with its bright AMOLED display, making it easy to read in various lighting conditions. Battery life is impressive for the category, lasting up to 11 days in smartwatch mode, which means fewer charges and more convenience for daily use. Fitness tracking is comprehensive, covering over 30 sports including running, cycling, swimming, and wheelchair-specific activities. It also offers detailed health insights like Body Battery energy monitoring, sleep coaching, heart rate, stress tracking, and even menstrual cycle support, which can help users better understand their body and recovery needs.

Compatible with both Android and iOS devices, it seamlessly connects via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, allowing notifications and music playback directly from the watch, perfect for phone-free workouts. The smartwatch has built-in GPS for accurate outdoor tracking and provides personalized training plans, making it suitable for beginners and fitness enthusiasts alike. While the watch is packed with features, some health metrics are estimations rather than medical-grade readings, so they should be viewed as helpful guides rather than precise measurements. The watch's water resistance supports swimming, but the exact depth rating isn't specified here, so heavy water sports might require extra consideration.

Its lightweight and compact design make it comfortable for daily wear, but those wanting a larger screen might find the 1.2-inch display a bit small. The vívoactive 5 delivers strong fitness and health tracking with excellent battery life and a sharp screen, making it a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable, budget-friendly smartwatch with a broad range of useful features.