Looking for a quality fitness smartwatch that won’t break the bank? You’ve got plenty of solid options under $100. After testing dozens of budget-friendly wearables, we’ve found that the best fitness smartwatches in this price range now offer heart rate tracking, sleep monitoring, GPS on some models, and week-long battery life—features that used to cost much more. Whether you’re a runner tracking your pace, a swimmer counting laps, or just want to monitor your daily activity and sleep, there’s a capable device for you. Here’s our breakdown of the top picks.
| Model | Price | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fitbit Inspire 3 | $99 | Heart rate, sleep tracking, 10+ day battery | Overall fitness |
| Amazfit Band 7 | $59 | AMOLED display, 18-day battery, GPS connected | Battery life seekers |
| Garmin Forerunner 45 | $99 | Built-in GPS, running dynamics, safety features | Runners |
The Fitbit Inspire 3 is our top pick for anyone wanting a reliable all-around fitness tracker under $100. At $99, this sleek wristband tracks your heart rate around the clock, monitors your sleep stages, and records all-day activity including steps, distance, and calories burned.
What makes the Inspire 3 stand out is its software ecosystem. Fitbit’s app does a solid job of translating raw data into useful health insights. You’ll get a daily Sleep Score, Active Zone Minutes that track workout intensity, and basic stress management tools. The device supports over 20 exercise modes, from running and cycling to swimming and yoga.
The battery lasts up to 10 days between charges, which means you can wear it continuously for sleep tracking without worrying about recharging. The always-on display option is convenient, though using it will shorten battery life to about 5 days. Water resistance up to 50 meters means you can take it into the pool without worry.
One drawback: the Inspire 3 doesn’t include built-in GPS. You’ll need to carry your phone for route tracking during outdoor runs or walks. The lack of onboard music storage and NFC for contactless payments might disappoint some users, but these omissions are reasonable at this price point.
Pros: Good sleep tracking, 10-day battery, lightweight comfortable design, solid app ecosystem, reliable heart rate monitoring
Cons: No built-in GPS, no NFC payments, no onboard music
If you want the most features for your money, the Amazfit Band 7 delivers solid value at around $59 with features that rival devices twice its price. The 1.47-inch AMOLED display is impressive—crisp, bright, and easy to read even in direct sunlight.
The battery is a real strength. You’ll easily get 18 days of typical use, and even with heavy usage including GPS workouts, you’ll still see 10+ days before needing to charge. This makes the Band 7 ideal for travelers or anyone who hates constant charging. When you do need to top up, the magnetic charger snaps on easily and fills the battery in about two hours.
Health tracking includes 24/7 heart rate monitoring, blood-oxygen saturation (SpO2) measurement, stress tracking, and menstrual cycle logging. Sleep tracking has improved with recent software updates, now offering sleep stage analysis and REM tracking. The PAI (Personal Activity Intelligence) system provides a single-score metric that encourages daily movement without fixating on step counts.
The Band 7 supports over 100 sports modes, though realistically most users will stick to the basics. GPS works via your smartphone’s connected GPS, which is accurate enough for casual runners. The Zepp app has improved over time, though it still doesn’t match Fitbit’s polish for data visualization and social features.
Notifications work reliably, showing caller ID, messages, and app alerts with customizable vibration patterns. You can also control music playback and use the find-my-phone feature.
Pros: Good AMOLED display, 18-day battery, excellent value, 100+ sports modes, SpO2 monitoring
Cons: App ecosystem not as polished as Fitbit, no built-in GPS, occasional notification delays
Serious runners need more than basic step counting—they need dedicated running features, and the Garmin Forerunner 45 delivers at $99. Unlike the wristband-style trackers above, the Forerunner 45 is a proper sports watch with a comfortable case and five physical buttons that make it easy to use during workouts.
The built-in GPS is the key feature. You don’t need your phone to track your runs, walks, or bike rides—the Forerunner 45 connects to GLONASS and GPS satellites directly. This means you get accurate distance and pace data even when you leave your phone at home. The satellite acquisition is fast, typically locking on within 30 seconds even in areas with partial sky coverage.
Running dynamics come included. You’ll see cadence, stride length, and ground contact time metrics that help you optimize your running form. The Forerunner 45 also includes VO2 max estimation and recovery time recommendations based on your workout intensity and heart rate data. These features help prevent overtraining and are usually found in watches costing twice as much.
Safety features add peace of mind for runners who train alone. Incident detection can automatically send your location to emergency contacts if the watch detects a hard impact or fall. LiveTrack lets family or friends follow your workout in real-time from their phones. These features work over your phone’s connection, so you’ll need to carry your device for safety functions.
Battery life is good for a GPS watch—about 7 days in smartwatch mode and up to 13 hours with GPS active. This easily handles a full week of training without charging. The always-on display is bright and readable in all lighting conditions.
The Forerunner 45 isn’t as sleek as fitness bands for everyday wear, and it lacks the advanced sleep tracking and smart features of Fitbit devices. But for runners who want dedicated sports tracking without spending $200+, this is a strong choice.
Pros: Built-in GPS, advanced running metrics, safety features, good battery, durable build
Cons: Basic sleep tracking, no heart rate variability, no music storage, bulkier than bands
For those willing to push closer to the $100 limit, the Garmin vívoactive 4 offers the most comprehensive feature set at this price point. Typically available around $99, this watch combines the running capabilities of the Forerunner line with smartwatch features that make it versatile for daily wear.
The vívoactive 4 includes built-in GPS like its sibling, but adds altimeter, barometer, and compass sensors that outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate. You’ll get accurate elevation tracking for hiking, automatic storm alerts through the barometric pressure sensor, and directional guidance when exploring new areas. These sensors also improve workout tracking accuracy, especially for activities like trail running and hiking.
The display uses Garmin’s sunlight-readable memory-in-pixel (MIP) technology, which remains visible in direct sunlight unlike some AMOLED screens. Battery life reaches 8 days in smartwatch mode and up to 6 hours with GPS and music playing—ideal for marathon training or long outdoor adventures. The vívoactive 4 also supports contactless payments through Garmin Pay, a rare feature in this price range.
Health monitoring includes pulse ox (blood oxygen), heart rate variability (HRV), stress tracking, and advanced sleep analysis. The HRV tracking is particularly useful for athletes monitoring recovery and readiness to train. You’ll also get breathwork activities and relaxation reminders.
Music storage is another feature that sets the vívoactive 4 apart. You can store up to 500 songs directly on the watch and connect wireless earbuds for phone-free listening during workouts.
The trade-off is a slightly larger case (45mm) that may feel bulky on smaller wrists, and the MIP display, while readable outdoors, doesn’t offer the same vibrant colors as AMOLED panels. Still, the feature-to-price ratio is strong.
Pros: Built-in GPS, pulse ox, HRV tracking, music storage, Garmin Pay, excellent sensors
Cons: Larger case size, MIP display less vibrant, heavier than bands
Xiaomi’s Mi Band series has long been popular for budget fitness trackers, and the Smart Band 8 (also known as Mi Band 8) continues that tradition at approximately $35-45. This tiny device packs solid features into an affordable package.
The Band 8 features a 1.62-inch AMOLED display that’s larger than its predecessor and easy to read. The always-on display function works well for quick glances during workouts. Build quality has improved—the strap mechanism is more secure and the overall construction feels more premium than earlier versions.
Battery life is strong, easily lasting 16+ days with typical usage. The magnetic charging is quick and convenient. Health features include 24/7 heart rate monitoring, SpO2 measurement, sleep tracking, and women’s health tracking. The accuracy won’t match Garmin or Fitbit devices, but it’s adequate for general fitness awareness.
The Band 8 supports over 150 sports modes, though “modes” here often just mean different icons rather than specialized tracking. GPS requires your phone, which is standard at this price point.
One area where Xiaomi has improved is notifications. The Band 8 handles calls, messages, and app alerts reliably, though the limited screen size makes reading long messages impractical. Quick replies (Android only) let you send preset responses without reaching for your phone.
The Xiaomi ecosystem has grown more complete with the Mi Fitness app, though it’s still not as polished as Fitbit’s offering. If you already use other Xiaomi products, the integration is seamless. For everyone else, the Band 8 represents good value for basic fitness tracking.
Pros: Very affordable, good battery, lightweight, good display, 150+ sports modes
Cons: Limited accuracy vs premium brands, no GPS, basic app, no NFC
The HONOR Band 7 enters the market as a solid alternative to Xiaomi’s offering, typically priced around $40-50. HONOR, formerly part of Huawei, brings similar technology to the table with some unique features.
The 1.47-inch AMOLED display matches the quality you’ll find on the Amazfit Band 7, with vivid colors and good sunlight visibility. Battery life reaches about 14 days with typical usage, putting it second only to Amazfit in the budget category. The charging puck design is simple and works reliably.
Health tracking includes heart rate monitoring, SpO2, stress tracking, and sleep analysis. HONOR’s sleep algorithm has improved substantially, now providing detailed sleep stage breakdown and a sleep score. The heart rate monitoring is accurate during steady-state activities, though it can struggle during high-intensity interval training.
The Band 7 includes 14 professional sports modes plus 85 custom exercise options. GPS connects through your phone and provides accurate route tracking for outdoor activities. Water resistance up to 5ATM allows for swimming tracking, though the lack of dedicated swim metrics means you’ll just get basic stroke counting.
One unique feature is the “Healthy Morning Checkout” that provides a quick morning summary of your key health metrics. It’s a nice touch that encourages daily awareness of your health status.
The trade-off is that HONOR’s ecosystem is less developed than Fitbit or Xiaomi, particularly for integration with other smart devices. If you’re already in the HONOR ecosystem (using HONOR phones), the Band 7 integrates seamlessly. For everyone else, it’s still a solid choice at an attractive price.
Pros: Good AMOLED display, 14-day battery, improved sleep tracking, affordable price, solid build
Cons: Limited ecosystem, no GPS, no quick replies, less third-party integration
Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 is the company’s latest fitness tracker, priced around $59 and designed to work seamlessly with Samsung phones. If you already own a Samsung Galaxy device, the Fit 3 offers integration benefits that make it worth considering.
The design has improved significantly from earlier Galaxy Fit models. The aluminum frame and 1.1-inch AMOLED display look premium, and the new single-strap design is more comfortable for all-day wear. At just 18.5 grams, it’s one of the lightest options available.
Samsung Health provides a comprehensive fitness ecosystem, particularly for Samsung users. You’ll get detailed workout tracking, sleep analysis with sleep score, stress monitoring, and nutrition tracking. The Fit 3 automatically detects various exercises, though you can manually start any of the 100+ supported activities. Heart rate monitoring runs continuously and provides alerts for abnormal heart rhythms.
Battery life is rated at up to 13 days, which is competitive with other bands in this price range. The charging cable uses a pogo-pin design that works but isn’t as convenient as magnetic solutions. You’ll get about 7 days with always-on display enabled.
The Fit 3 uses connected GPS, so you’ll need your phone nearby for outdoor route tracking. This works well for most users but means you can’t leave your phone at home during runs.
The main limitation is that the Fit 3 works best with Samsung phones. While it will pair with other Android devices, you’ll lose some features and the integration won’t be as smooth. iOS support exists but is more limited than what Samsung phone users experience.
Pros: Good Samsung integration, lightweight design, good display, comprehensive Samsung Health
Cons: Best features require Samsung phone, no built-in GPS, limited iOS support
Noise is one of India’s leading wearable brands, and the ColorFit Pro 4 offers solid value at approximately $40. This watch-style fitness tracker provides more screen real estate than band-style competitors while keeping the price in budget territory.
The 1.69-inch display is significantly larger than most fitness bands, making it easier to read notifications and view workout stats at a glance. The watch case design looks more like a traditional sports watch, which some users prefer for everyday wear. Build quality is solid for the price.
Battery life reaches about 7 days with typical usage, which is shorter than band-style competitors but reasonable given the larger display. The magnetic charging is convenient. Health features include heart rate monitoring, SpO2, sleep tracking, and stress measurement. The accuracy is acceptable for casual fitness tracking but won’t satisfy serious athletes.
The ColorFit Pro 4 supports over 100 sports modes and includes automatic exercise detection. GPS connects through your phone for outdoor activities. Water resistance is rated at 5ATM, making it suitable for swimming.
The Noise app provides basic fitness tracking with daily stats, trends, and achievement badges. It’s not as sophisticated as Fitbit’s ecosystem, but it’s functional and improving with updates. Notifications work reliably for calls, messages, and common apps.
The main appeal of Noise products is their availability in markets where some competitors don’t ship easily, combined with competitive pricing and decent specifications. If you’re in a region where Noise products are readily available, the ColorFit Pro 4 delivers solid value.
Pros: Large display, watch-style design, 5ATM water resistance, competitive pricing, good value
Cons: Shorter battery life than bands, basic app, limited availability outside India
Fire-Boltt has gained significant market share in the budget smartwatch space, and the Phoenix at around $35 offers an impressive feature list that challenges even more expensive devices.
The 1.3-inch round display gives this device a more traditional watch appearance while offering touchscreen functionality. The included silicone straps are comfortable and the overall build quality exceeds expectations for the price. Multiple color options let you personalize your look.
Health monitoring includes heart rate, SpO2, blood pressure monitoring, and sleep tracking. Fire-Boltt claims medical-grade accuracy for its sensors, though independent testing suggests you should treat readings as estimates rather than medical data. The sleep tracking provides basic stage breakdown that’s useful for general awareness.
The Phoenix supports over 100 sports modes with dedicated tracking for running, cycling, swimming, and gym workouts. GPS connects through your phone. The larger watch case accommodates a 360mAh battery that delivers about 7-10 days of typical use.
Additional features include Bluetooth calling capability (the watch has a speaker and microphone), AI voice assistant, and media controls. These are unusual at this price point and add functionality that budget buyers will appreciate.
The trade-off is that Fire-Boltt’s app can be less stable than established brands, and customer support may be harder to access. The device also tends to be slightly less accurate than competitors from more established brands. But for the price, the Phoenix delivers good functionality.
Pros: Very affordable, large display, Bluetooth calling, 100+ sports modes, good battery
Cons: Less accurate sensors, app can be buggy, limited support, lower brand reliability
Finding your perfect fitness smartwatch depends on understanding what features matter most for your specific needs and lifestyle.
If running is your main exercise, built-in GPS becomes essential. The Garmin Forerunner 45 and vívoactive 4 are your best options since they track routes without requiring your phone. Casual walkers and general fitness enthusiasts can save money with connected GPS devices like the Fitbit Inspire 3 or Amazfit Band 7.
Swimmers should prioritize water resistance ratings. All the devices covered here offer at least 5ATM (50 meters) water resistance, making them suitable for pool swimming. However, only some offer dedicated swim tracking with stroke detection and lap counting.
If you hate charging devices, battery life should be your top priority. The Amazfit Band 7 delivers up to 18 days, the Fitbit Inspire 3 manages 10 days, and most band-style trackers exceed a week. Watch-style devices with GPS and always-on displays typically need charging every 5-7 days.
Your smartphone brand can significantly impact your experience. Samsung users will get the most from Galaxy Fit 3, iPhone users generally fare best with Apple Watch (though that’s above $100), and Fitbit devices work universally but shine with Android. Amazfit and other brands function with any phone but lack deep integration features.
AMOLED displays like those on the Amazfit Band 7 and Xiaomi Band 8 offer vibrant colors and true blacks but consume more power with always-on displays. LCD or MIP displays like Garmin’s remain readable in direct sunlight and offer better battery efficiency.
Yes, most fitness smartwatches in this price range support run tracking. However, only Garmin devices (Forerunner 45, vívoactive 4) offer built-in GPS. Other models require your smartphone for GPS tracking.
Modern fitness trackers provide reasonably accurate heart rate data during steady exercise. Studies show most devices have accuracy within 5% of chest strap monitors during moderate activities. Accuracy decreases during high-intensity interval training or exercises with significant arm movement.
Basic fitness tracking is free for all brands. Fitbit offers a Premium subscription ($9.99/month) that provides deeper insights, but core features like step counting, sleep tracking, and basic workout logs remain free.
All trackers listed here are rated at least 5ATM (50 meters), making them suitable for swimming, showering, and surface water activities. They’re not designed for scuba diving or high-pressure water sports.
With proper care, a quality fitness smartwatch should last 3-5 years. Battery degradation typically becomes noticeable after 2-3 years of daily charging, reducing capacity by 20-30%.
Fitness bands are typically slimmer, lighter, and offer longer battery life but sacrifice screen size and sometimes advanced features. Fitness watches (like Garmin Forerunner 45) have larger displays, more buttons for easy workout control, and often include built-in GPS.
The best fitness smartwatch under $100 depends on your specific needs, but these recommendations cover the full range of use cases. The Fitbit Inspire 3 earns our top overall pick for its balance of features, accuracy, and ecosystem. Budget buyers will like the Amazfit Band 7’s display and battery life. Runners should consider the Garmin Forerunner 45 for its GPS and running dynamics.
What matters most is choosing a device you’ll actually wear consistently. The best fitness tracker is the one that fits comfortably on your wrist, has battery life that matches your charging habits, and provides the specific metrics you care about. With options ranging from $35 to $99, there’s a good time to start tracking your fitness journey without spending a fortune.
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