When it comes to smartwatches, it’s easy to think you have to spend a fortune to get quality. With models like the Google Pixel Watch 3, Samsung Galaxy Watch 7, and Apple Watch Series 10 dominating headlines, it’s natural to assume great features come at a steep price.
But here’s the exciting news: 2025’s best budget smartwatches are closing the gap dramatically — offering powerful features, stylish designs, and excellent battery life at a fraction of the cost. After extensive testing and comparisons, we’ve compiled a list of the top affordable smartwatches under $250/£250.
Whether you’re an Apple loyalist, a fitness fanatic, or just seeking a reliable daily companion, there’s an impressive budget smartwatch waiting for you.
Quick Comparison: Best Budget Smartwatches 2025
| Smartwatch | Best For |
|---|---|
| CMF Watch Pro 2 | Overall value & style |
| Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) | iPhone users |
| Huawei Watch Fit 3 | Sports tracking |
| Amazfit GTS 4 | Fashionable looks |
| Xiaomi Watch S4 | Customizable design |
| Honor Watch 4 | Performance on a budget |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch FE | Health tracking |
| Xiaomi Watch 2 | Affordable Wear OS experience |
| Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro | Fitness tracker hybrid |
| Redmi Watch 4 | Big screen experience |
1. CMF Watch Pro 2 – A Standout All-Round Performer
The CMF Watch Pro 2 by Nothing’s offshoot brand is proof that affordability doesn’t mean compromise. With its swappable straps and bezels, paired with a vivid 1.32-inch AMOLED screen, it looks way more expensive than it is.
It’s compatible with both iOS and Android devices, features built-in GPS, and can run for up to 11 days on one charge.. However, fitness tracking could be more accurate.
Ideal for: Stylish users wanting a premium look without the premium price.
2. Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation) – Perfect for iPhone Users
If you’re in the Apple ecosystem, the Watch SE (2nd Gen) remains the smartest budget choice. Seamlessly integrated with iOS features like Apple Pay, App Store, and Health Tracking, it offers tremendous value.
Although it misses an always-on display and its battery is average, the performance is still top-notch at its price.
Ideal for: iPhone owners wanting the Apple experience affordably.
3. Huawei Watch Fit 3 – Fitness Meets Style
The Huawei Watch Fit 3 perfectly combines the features of a fitness tracker and a smartwatch.. Sporting a 1.82-inch AMOLED screen and over 120 workout modes, it’s great for active lifestyles. Plus, quick charging and lightweight design make it a reliable everyday companion.
Ideal for: Fitness enthusiasts who want a stylish smartwatch at a mid-range price.
4. Amazfit GTS 4 – Best Looking Wearable
The Amazfit GTS 4 continues to be one of the most stylish smartwatches available at an affordable price.. With a bright, square AMOLED screen and sleek design, it feels both lightweight and premium. Fitness tracking is robust, though third-party app support is limited.
Ideal for: Fashion-forward users who value design as much as function.
5. Xiaomi Watch S4 – Unmatched Customization
Want a smartwatch that adapts to your style? The Xiaomi Watch S4 offers interchangeable bezels, a rotating crown, and strong battery performance. It runs on HyperOS, providing a mature smartwatch experience, although it leans more Android-friendly.
Ideal for: Users seeking a stylish and customizable wearable.
6. Honor Watch 4 – Power and Affordability
The Honor Watch 4 offers a vibrant AMOLED screen, responsive touch controls, and reliable GPS performance.. Its waterproof design and comprehensive fitness tracking make it an exceptional value, despite minor software quirks.
Ideal for: Budget-conscious users wanting premium features.
7. Samsung Galaxy Watch FE – Elite Health Tracking
Samsung’s Galaxy Watch FE repackages the Galaxy Watch 4 with updated software and keeps all the health sensors, including ECG and SpO2 monitoring. Battery life is modest, but for Samsung fans, it’s a no-brainer.
Ideal for: Android users wanting top-tier health features affordably.
8. Xiaomi Watch 2 – The Top Budget-Friendly Wear OS Smartwatch
Powered by the Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 chip, the Xiaomi Watch 2 delivers smooth performance, an always-on AMOLED display, and full Google Play Store access. However, expect a daily charge if you use it heavily.
Ideal for: Wear OS fans who want the full Google experience cheaply.
9. Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro – A Perfect Blend of Fitness Tracker and Smartwatch
The Smart Band 9 Pro strikes an ideal balance between a fitness tracker and a smartwatch. Its slim form, built-in GPS, and week-long battery life make it ideal for fitness beginners or those upgrading from basic fitness bands.
Ideal for: Users prioritizing fitness tracking and minimalist design.
10. Redmi Watch 4 – Best Big Display Smartwatch
Looking for a big screen on a budget? The Redmi Watch 4 flaunts a massive 1.97-inch AMOLED display and covers fitness tracking essentials with built-in GPS. While smartwatch features are basic, it’s excellent for users who love a big visual interface.
Ideal for: Users seeking a large-screen experience at a low price.
How to Choose the Best Budget Smartwatch
Before you buy, think about:
| Question | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| What phone do you use? | Some features (like ECG or LTE) may be locked to certain ecosystems (e.g., Samsung or Apple). |
| What features are essential? | Prioritize health tracking, GPS, music, or app support depending on your needs. |
| Battery life preferences? | Daily charging might be a hassle; some watches offer up to 2 weeks. |
| Design preferences? | Square vs. round screens, customizable bands, and size comfort are important for everyday wear. |
You no longer need to spend $400+ to get a good smartwatch. The budget smartwatches of 2025 prove that high-end design, powerful features, and solid performance can exist under $250.
Whether you’re pairing it with an Android or iPhone, focusing on fitness or just wanting a stylish wrist companion, this list ensures you’ll find the right smartwatch without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Budget Smartwatches Make Calls?
Yes! Many models like the Huawei Watch Fit 3 and Samsung Galaxy Watch FE offer Bluetooth calling when connected to your smartphone.
However, only a few budget models (mostly higher-end) support LTE connectivity, letting you make calls independently without needing your phone nearby.
Do Budget Smartwatches Support Third-Party Apps?
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Apple Watch SE: Supports third-party apps through the App Store.
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Wear OS Watches (e.g., Xiaomi Watch 2): Full access to Google Play Store apps.
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Custom OS Watches (e.g., Amazfit GTS 4, CMF Watch Pro 2): Limited or no third-party app installations, but they still come with built-in features.
How Accurate Are Budget Smartwatches for Fitness Tracking?
Budget smartwatches have improved a lot, but you should expect slightly less accurate readings compared to premium models.
Heart rate monitoring, GPS tracking, and sleep analysis are generally decent but not 100% medical-grade
