Best smartwatches under $250 May,2024 | Best Budget

Last Updated on March 16, 2024 by Oliver

Are you looking for an affordable smartwatch, yet with all the main features? This article is a complete guide, explaining to you the best smartwatches under $250.

Regular watches show you time, but what are smartwatches? They have features that are similar to a mobile phone. You wear it on your wrist and there you go, you have all your notifications being displayed on the watch screen without the need to take out your phone from the pocket.

After smartphones, these gadgets have been the most convincing developments in technology. They are handy, convenient, easy to use, and versatile. Apart from its key function of displaying time, it keeps track of your health and helps you remain fit and healthy.

It also performs the functions of a mobile phone by allowing you to send and receive messages, calls, and other related notifications. Moreover, they have stylish bodies and designs, which increases your desire to get one today.

Our 3 Recommended Smartwatch Under $250

Title
Best Choice
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5
Excellent Choice
Fitbit Versa 4
Customer Choice
Amazfit GTR 4
Image
SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 5 44mm Bluetooth Smartwatch w/Body,...
Fitbit Versa 4 Fitness Smartwatch with Daily Readiness, GPS,...
Amazfit GTR 4 Limited Edition Smart Watch for Men Women,...
Display Size
1.4 inches
1.69 inches
1.43 inches
Display Type
AMOLED Display
AMOLED Display
AMOLED Screen
Operating System
Tizen OS
Fitbit OS
Zepp OS 2.0
WaterProof
Bluetooth Calling
Best Choice
Title
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5
Image
SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 5 44mm Bluetooth Smartwatch w/Body,...
Display Size
1.4 inches
Display Type
AMOLED Display
Operating System
Tizen OS
WaterProof
Bluetooth Calling
Buy Now
Excellent Choice
Title
Fitbit Versa 4
Image
Fitbit Versa 4 Fitness Smartwatch with Daily Readiness, GPS,...
Display Size
1.69 inches
Display Type
AMOLED Display
Operating System
Fitbit OS
WaterProof
Bluetooth Calling
Buy Now
Customer Choice
Title
Amazfit GTR 4
Image
Amazfit GTR 4 Limited Edition Smart Watch for Men Women,...
Display Size
1.43 inches
Display Type
AMOLED Screen
Operating System
Zepp OS 2.0
WaterProof
Bluetooth Calling
Buy Now

Last update on 2023-06-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Buying Guide

Things to Consider Before Buying The Smartwatch Under $250

Do you think looks matter? Yes, they do matter but they aren’t the key players. What matters when you buy a smartwatch is the user experience.

Below is a concise buying guide to help you choose the best smartwatch and have a great user experience:

  • Display: Many people face trouble seeing the screen when under the sun. This is because the screen is LCD. If you want a clear display, look for a smartwatch that has an AMOLED screen. They give you a better experience indoors as well as outdoors.
  • Battery life: A smartwatch’s battery life is one of the main aspects to be considered. Buy a smartwatch with good battery backup, so that it doesn’t go down when you’re outside. And lemme assure you that most of the smartwatches under the price bracket of $250 have long battery life.
  • Fitness Features: The main reason a smartwatch is purchased is to keep track on the body health. Make sure that you buy the one which gives accurate results. However, keep in mind that you don’t totally rely on these devices for medical advice.
  • Compatibility: What’s better than a smartwatch that’s compatible with both, Android and iOS systems? Don’t go for a smartwatch that supports any one system, but rather look for a versatile one. Ensure that it effortlessly connects to your phone without any issues.
  • Price: If you have a budget of $250 then you are on the right website. You will find details of the best-selling smartwatches under $250 in this article. Don’t be under the assumption that cheap smartwatches aren’t good enough because even within this price range, you get the finest smartwatches.

Best Smartwatches Under $250 May,2024

Now let’s dive into the trendy and affordable smartwatches you need to get.

1. Samsung Galaxy Watch 5

Samsung Galaxy Watch 5
► 1.4-inch AMOLED, 360 x 360 pixels resolution
► Battery life up to 2 days
► Tizen Operating System
► GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO
► 5ATM water resistance

Last update on 2023-06-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

No doubt that Samsung gives its users the best experience through its technological gadgets. From mid-range to high-end items, it leaves no stone unturned to gain maximum customer satisfaction. One such item is its new Samsung Galaxy Watch 5.

Priced at $229, it provides the best features among all the smartwatches under $250. From tracking your sleep to streaming YouTube videos, it is no less than a mobile phone. Its sleek design and crystal sapphire display, that is 1.6 times stronger against scratches, makes it super stylish. When you wear it, nobody will know that it’s priced only under $250. With 16 GB storage capacity, this watch on your wrist is worth it!

Furthermore, it’s one of Samsung’s best smartwatches and is much more upgraded than its predecessor, Galaxy Watch 4. If you’re a technologically-challenged person but still need a smartwatch to track your health, then Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is the perfect fit. You get stats of steps taken, calories burnt, heart rate, hydration level, percentage of body fat, and whatnot.

The large, bright display with quick touch-response is the key positive element that is enchanting. Apart from the display, the bands are interchangeable and are available in pink gold, sapphire, silver, and graphite hues. You have the choice to go for a bolder or paler look.

Do you find it hard getting a good sleep? Your sleep partner, Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 plans your sleep. The smartwatch tracks stages of your sleep and lets you know about your sleeping pattern and also your snores!

And have you ever watched YouTube videos on a tiny screen? Now you can in Samsung Galaxy Watch 5. Enjoy watching videos and experience how it feels when seeing them on a small screen.

Features

  • Includes an accelerometer, barometer, electrical heart sensor, geomagnetic sensor, and many more.
  • 13% bigger battery life, which charges from 0 to 45% in just 30 mins. That’s really quick.
  • Monitors your health by tracking the steps taken, supports around 90 exercises, and alerts you in case of any emergency when it comes to your heart rate. Additionally, it also keeps a check on your sleep and the fat percentage in your body.
  • Its exceptional features include browsing the web, streaming YouTube videos, using Google Assistant and Google Maps.
  • Is water resistant.

Pros & Cons of Samsung Galaxy Watch 5

Pros

  • Superb design and quality.
  • Scratch-resistant display.
  • Is reasonably priced.
  • Advanced health tracker.

Cons

  • Battery life could have been better.
  • Sleep trackers and blood pressure sensors do not give accurate results.

2. Apple Watch SE

sale
Apple Watch SE
► 40 millimeters Screen Size
► Available in various colors and sizes
► Siri, SOS, Wi-Fi
► Crash and Fall detection
► Water resistance of 50 meters

Last update on 2023-06-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Is this a dream? Is Apple’s watch so affordable? Yes, it’s Apple Watch SE. Apple is known for its sophisticated features. The brand has been a king for years in its iOS space and never fails to surprise its users with unique elements. With this said, its SE watch meets the standards of an ideal smartwatch. Starting at just $249, it gives the perfect Apple feel one would expect.

Is it boring to workout? With Apple Watch SE, it’s not. Vibe your favourite audiobooks and podcasts in your workout routines. And don’t worry about the storage. It gives you 32 GB memory!

In everyday life, you see people wearing smartwatches that are a copy of Apple smartwatch’s design. They look exactly the same, but the performance speaks everything. Apple never lets down its users and always does something out of the box. And no doubt it has surprised its customers by launching a smartwatch with a low price margin.

The watch has crash detection and fall detection sensors. When a crash is detected, it immediately alerts the emergency services and shares your location. Also, its ECG app is the most accurate one, as you may have heard how Apple watch has saved the lives of many by alerting the user, his doctor, and family in case of any deteriorating heart health. Safety and privacy are Apple’s priorities.

Besides, the Apple Watch SE is 20% faster than its previous version. It uses the same processor as used in Apple Watch S8 series. And therefore works seamlessly and smoothly.

Coming to its design, it looks as sophisticated as Apple’s products are. With a backcase made up of nylon, the colours that you can choose from are midnight, starlight, and silver. Choose your favourite smartwatch tint and get yours now at just $249.

Features

  • Has in-built crash detection and fall detection sensors.
  • Can send emergency SOS and also has an international emergency calling feature.
  • Is swim-proof.
  • Using the watch, you can control the lights in your home and even access the security cameras.
  • Plus, the most useful feature for women is that it keeps track of your monthly menstrual cycle.
  • Furthermore, sending payments is also possible through this watch.
  • And not to forget its most important feature, the ECG app, and heart monitoring.

Pros & Cons of Apple Watch SE

Pros

  • Respects your privacy.
  • Good battery life.
  • Is lightweight.
  • Gives accurate results through its sensors and apps.
  • Parenting trap available.

Cons

  • Works only with an iPhone.
  • No SpO2 tracker.
  • Not dust-resistant.

3. Fitbit Versa 4

Fitbit Versa 4
► 1.69-inch AMOLED, 360 x 360 pixels resolution
► Battery life up to 7 days
► Alexa Built-in, Google maps & Wallets
► 40+ Exercise Modes
► 5ATM water resistance

Last update on 2023-06-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

As its name itself reveals that this brand mainly focuses on your fitness. The Versa 4 model of Fitbit covers all the requirements that you will need from a smartwatch.

It monitors your overall body health and gives suggestions accordingly. Alongside, it helps you stay motivated to keep your body healthy and fit.

An eye-catching feature of this watch is its display which has an AMOLED screen and also has an always-on display mode. Another key feature is its compatibility with both, Android and iOS devices. Interestingly, the watch also has lovely hues to choose from which include black, waterfall blue, pink sand, and beet juice.

Moreover, a bonus to all females is its menstrual cycle tracking, which tracks your periods, ovulation days, and symptoms related to menses. This feature has been of great help to all the females out there, thanks to the Fitbit app. 

Built-in Alexa can also be accessed by communicating with the help of a speaker/microphone. And Alexa as you know can be set to manage the incoming calls. Also, get updates on the weather, and set alarms and timers by tapping the device on your wrist.

Workouts for a short duration sound interesting, ain’t they? Fitbit Versa 4 gives you short and sweet workout tasks to ensure your good health.

Features

  • Gets charged in 12 minutes and lasts for more than 6 days. That’s surely a long battery life.
  • You get a stress management score by taking into consideration your heart rate and sleep pattern. As a result, you learn to lower your stress rates.
  • It sends you reminders to remain active physically by sharing with you short workout activities.
  • Besides, it tracks your menstrual cycle, blood glucose levels and SpO2.
  • It is water resistant and has 40+ exercise modes.
  • Has an in-built GPS and you can navigate maps.

Pros & Cons of Fitbit Versa 4

Pros

  • Connects with both, Android and iOS phones.
  • Good battery life.
  • Slim design.
  • Alexa is built-in.

Cons

  • Doesn’t support third-party apps.
  • No access to Google Voice Assistant.

4. Garmin Vivoactive 4

sale
Garmin Vivoactive 4
► 1.3-inch AMOLED display
► Battery life up to 8 days
► 1000 Watch faces
► GPS, Spotify
► 5ATM water resistance

Last update on 2022-11-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Do you want a fancy-looking watch? Garmin Vivoactive 4 is the one. It looks expensive but rather is highly affordable. At a small price, it offers various useful features to its users that makes it stand out. One of them is its payment option, making payments has become easier with this watch.

Enter the passcode and get started for money transfer. It’s that easy. But what makes it distinct is the animated workouts that it displays on its screen. Be ready to burn your calories with these fun-filled exercise activities.

As it is a multisport device, it suits hikers, runners, cyclers and various other adventurous people. Instead of buying an expensive smartwatch to track and record their movements, they can spend a few bucks on Garmin Vivoactive 4.

No time to hit the gym? Garmin Vivoactive 4 is your saviour. It’s more of a personal trainer with loads of exercise sessions including exercises for a healthier breathing. But are the exercise poses visible? Yes, the smartwatch’s display is large and bright with a Corning Gorilla Glass. And most of the positive reviews that it gets are because of its big display size.

Features

  • Once charged, the battery can last for up to 8 days.
  • There are more than 20 preloaded sports apps on this device. Now you have all the exercises on your wrist.
  • Workout sometimes seems boring, but when shown with animations, it works wonders. This watch includes animated workouts.
  • Whilst working out, you can listen to your favourite audiobooks or any other playlist you enjoy.
  • With the Garmin Connect App on their watches, women can keep a check on their menstrual cycles and pregnancy. They also receive valuable information on the same.
  • Alongside, heart rate monitoring and tracking of your sleep, respiration, hydration levels, energy levels, and blood glucose levels is a plus point.

Pros & Cons of Garmin Vivoactive 4

Pros

  • Is water-resistant and swim-suitable.
  • Sleek design.
  • Accurate sensors.
  • Advanced health tracking features.
  • Good battery life.

Cons

  • No wireless charging.
  • Few bugs in the software.

5. Amazfit GTR 4

Amazfit GTR 4
► 1.43-inch AMOLED, 360 x 360 pixels resolution
► Battery life up to 14 days
► 150+ Sports modes
► GPS, Amazon Alexa
► 5ATM water resistance

Last update on 2023-06-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Looking for a watch that is affordable and yet keeps track of your health? Amazfit GTR 4 is one of the best watches for health-conscious ones. Be it hiking or swimming, Amazfit GTR 4 will be your partner, counting all your steps and monitoring all your moves. With a price ranging from $179 to $199, it gives its users a world-class experience and 200+ watch faces.

With an AMOLED display, its classy design is bomb, making it much more desirable. The smartwatch’s design is inspired from a sports car which is the secret to its super stylish look. Additionally, you can choose from amongst its sober colours like black, leather brown and racetrack grey.  

Whether for use by a fitness enthusiast or for normal use, I’m sure this watch won’t disappoint you. It includes not only a normal GPS, but also a multiband GPS that is usually found only in high-end smartwatches. Moreover, the Amazfit GTR 4 has in-built Alexa allowing you to control the lights in your house and Alexa also follows all your voice commands

Remember that Amazfit GTR 4 works only with Android phones and doesn’t support iOS. Coming to phone have you ever got a mini heart attack when you don’t find your phone in your pocket? We sometimes misplace our phones and forget about it. But don’t worry, the smartwatch helps you find your phone by ringing your phone number. Great compatibility between the smart devices, ain’t it?

Features

  • The battery life is super long, lasting for up to 14 days. That’s almost two weeks.
  • The BioTracker 4.0 PPG optical sensor tracks your heart rate, sleep, daytime naps, stress, and SpO. You also get 4 health metrics in just one tap, which is amazing.
  • You also have the option to sync your workout data to Adidas Running and Strava. Reviewing of this data is also possible.
  • Supports more than 150 sports modes, thus providing numerous options.
  • Downloading apps has become easier. From the Zepp app, you can download several mini apps into your watch. Recently, games are also included in it.
  • An uncommon feature is that it allows its users to store their membership/club card codes, thus giving them more convenience.

Pros & Cons of Amazfit GTR 4

Pros

  • Battery life is too good.
  • Accuracy of fitness tracking results.
  • Display looks cool.

Cons

  • Zepp app needs to improve.
  • Watch faces aren’t free.

FAQs

  • Which is the best smartwatch under $250?

I would say that Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is the best smartwatch under $250. It’s not because of the brand name, but it’s the unique features that makes its smartwatch rank first. The watch is budget-friendly and has all the necessary features except that it doesn’t support IOS.

  • Are smartwatches under $250 worth it?

Yes, smartwatches under $250 are worth the price. Be it in terms of design or characteristics, they give you the best user experience. They fulfil all the basic functions such as health monitoring, sending and receiving messages and calls, navigating, etc.

  • Are the health sensors in a smartwatch accurate?

The results given by sensors in a smartwatch may slightly vary. For minor issues such as steps taken and calories burnt, it can be relied upon. But when it comes to heart rate monitoring, BP, or blood glucose levels, it may be different. Having said that it still is a great device for health monitoring.

  • What are the best brands of smartwatches?

In case of Android, Samsung, Fitbit, Garmin may be the best brands. But as far as iOS is concerned, Apple watches are the best fit as they create a great iOS ecosystem. Yet, there are also other brands like Fitbit and Garmin that support iOS.

Wrap up

Reaching the end of this article has probably got you into confusion as to which smartwatch to purchase. In my opinion, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is the best smartwatch under $250, as it is more compatible and is packed with unique features and functions. However, depending on your specifications and budget, you can choose the one that best suits you. Overall, all the 5 watches mentioned in this article are worth the price. At such an affordable price, they give you a bunch of features that are rare to see in an inexpensive smart device. Make a smart decision and get your smartwatch.