Best Smartwatches under $100

Most folks see a smartwatch and think, well, that’s going to be a couple hundred dollars to get a hold of. And that might be the case for a brand like Apple or even more so for Garmin.

However, those are not the only smartwatches available. In fact, it’s quite possible to get a viable, functional and desirable smartwatch for under $100 as well. You just have to be willing to look beyond the market leaders mentioned above.

A smartwatch is, technically, a device that combines the power of a computer with a time-telling feature. While there have been digital watches for decades, becoming widespread in the 1980s, the real smartwatch didn’t appear until the capability to connect the onboard motherboard to the Internet happened.

While the most famous smartwatch people can think of is the Apple Watch, there were smartwatches before that. Today, a whole variety of devices exist, from Fitbits to Galaxy to Samsung and others. Even better, there are price-sensitive brands and models that give a user a digital connection without breaking the bank.

1. Amazfit

The name is a bit quirky, but many folks like the Amazfit offering as an all-around smartwatch. With its Bip S model, Amazfit, offers users a smartwatch that stays under $100 but gives them features that are comparable with the upgraded model, the GTS, as well as competitive with other brands.

The Amazfit Bip S hits the middle range with a 1.3 inch screen that never shuts off. Controlled via touchscreen mode, the Bip S also makes it easy to see the detail display with a functional backlight benefit as well.

Similar to the others, the Bip S smartwatch incorporates a GPS tracking tool as well, making it very useful for path recording.

The included menu provides guidance and goal-tracking for multiple sports as well to help with workouts, designed to be an augmented fitness watch. Everything from yoga to swimming can be guided by the programs included in the Bip S.

The watch does have a motion sensing aspect, which will assume a user’s workout is not happening any longer if the person is standing still for a minimum time threshold period. However, what folks really like about the Amazfit Bip S is the fact that it can change its face features, a bit like the Swatch styles of old.

Finally, in terms of longevity use, the Bip S can last close to 40 days when not actively used. On the other hand, if used hard regularly, it reasonably lasts up to 15 days, almost a week longer than the competition.

2. NDur

At least a third less than $100, the NDur is an ideal package for more bang for the buck. First off, the screen size is a bigger size, measuring 1.4 inches across. Second, it uses a touchscreen, versus buttons, which is a nice modern feature expected with a smartwatch.

Third, the frame is modern but the strap is comfortable, a proper blend of look and fit for the user. Many owners use the NDur for standard sports use and gym work as well as outdoor hiking and walking tracking. Add in the GPS feature, and one can track where they are going while exercising outdoors.

The NDur doesn’t perform so hot, however, in sleep monitoring; it starts tracking sleeping when one is just sitting still for too long, a default goof mode known about the model.

However, for the health-minded, the NDur has really become popular in the last few years with blood oxygen measuring. However, the brand makes no claim that the feature is medically accurate.

3. LetsFit

The data is then communicated to the Internet for measurement use after the fact. LetsFit is one of the more common brands in the fitness arena, with the ID205L leading the brand’s position in the smartwatch market. The model works with Android and includes a sleeping monitoring feature as well.

The actual visual screen on the ID205L only measures about 1.3 inches, and the detail is standard. It works but there are other choices that light up better with more visibility. Most folks use the ID205L for standard fitness activities from running, walking and biking to gym work.

It does have some compatibility with software app tools online, like Apple Health, which is a nice feature for personal metrics tracking. The most appealing feature of the ID205L, however, is its long battery life, up to 10 days or even a month with standby limited use.

Be Willing to Look Around and Experiment

Remember, while the crowd will focus on the biggest brands, there are multiple good choices at budget prices as well. Be willing to experiment and try them out. More than likely a consumer is going to find a package that meets specific needs.

And, eventually, it’s okay to have both a budget smartwatch and a premium one. Use the budget watch for hard active use, and save the premium smartwatch for that social outing or professional meeting. No one will know better unless you tell them.