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 Fitbit Versa 4 Fitness Smartwatch is a feature-packed option for those seeking a comprehensive fitness companion on a budget. Its 1.58-inch display is crisp and clear, offering an excellent size for viewing fitness stats and notifications. The battery life is impressive, lasting over six days, so you won't need to charge it frequently. Fitness tracking is robust with 40+ exercise modes, built-in GPS, 24/7 heart rate monitoring, and automatic exercise tracking, making it ideal for anyone serious about tracking their physical activities.

Additionally, it includes tools for measuring sleep quality and managing stress, which are great for overall wellness. The smartwatch is water-resistant up to 50 meters, allowing you to swim or shower without worry. It is compatible with both Apple and Android devices, ensuring broad usability. On the downside, the Fitbit Versa 4's build quality is solid but feels less premium than higher-end models. Notifications work well, but the experience can be slightly limited compared to more expensive smartwatches due to the Fitbit OS.

While the smartwatch offers excellent value with features such as on-wrist calls, texts, and payment options, some users may find the additional 6-month premium membership trial to be less useful once it ends, as it requires a subscription for continued use. The Fitbit Versa 4 offers a lot for its price and is particularly well-suited for fitness enthusiasts looking for an affordable yet capable smartwatch.

The Garmin vívoactive 5 is a solid choice in the budget smartwatch category, especially for fitness enthusiasts. Its vibrant AMOLED display enhances visibility and interaction, making it user-friendly. An impressive battery life of up to 11 days means you can wear it for extended periods without frequent recharging, which is a significant plus for busy users.

Fitness tracking is one of the key strengths of this smartwatch, with over 30 built-in sports apps covering various activities like running, cycling, swimming, and even wheelchair mode for accessibility. The Body Battery feature, sleep score, and detailed health metrics offer personalized insights that can help users monitor their well-being effectively. The inclusion of music storage and compatibility with popular streaming services adds convenience for those who enjoy listening to music during workouts.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While it excels in fitness features, some users might find that its health tracking metrics are estimates rather than precise measurements. The smartwatch's weight of 1.3 ounces is lightweight, but some might prefer a more substantial feel. Additionally, while it works with both Android and iOS, some advanced features might be more seamlessly integrated with Garmin's own app ecosystem, potentially leading to a learning curve for new users unfamiliar with it.