Best Budget Smartwatches to Buy in 2026
The arrival of 2025‑refreshed smartwatches means that in 2026, value devices now pack serious performance‑features: AMOLED displays, built‑in GPS, Bluetooth calling, multi‑day battery life — all without premium pricing. Whether you’re upgrading your first wearable or simply seeking big value, here are the top budget smartwatches of 2026 you should consider.
What “budget” means in 2026
In this guide, we define “budget” as roughly under US$150 (or equivalent) retail in most major regions. The goal is not just “cheap” but smart value — strong tracking, smart features, decent build.
We selected models that:
- Support both Android and iOS (or at least major paired ecosystems)
- Offer built‑in GPS (or multi‑GNSS) when possible
- Provide genuine smartwatch functionality (notifications + calls + health tracking)
- Are recent releases (2024–2025) and thus relevant heading into 2026
Our Top Picks
Amazfit Bip 5
Specs: 1.91″ TFT LCD, 300 mAh battery, 120+ sports modes, built‑in GPS (4‑satellite), Bluetooth calling.
Why worth it: Unmatched value — large screen, real smartwatch features at a low price.
Ideal for: First‑time users or buyers wanting smart features without premium spend.
Amazfit Active 2
Specs: 1.32″ AMOLED 466×466, 5 ATM water resistance, dual‑band GPS, 164+ sport modes, up to 10 days battery.
Why worth it: Premium‑level tracking and GPS at a budget price point.
Ideal for: Fitness‑focused users who don’t want to spend for high-end watches.
Huawei Watch Fit 3
Specs: 1.82″ AMOLED (480×408), ~26 g weight, built‑in GPS, 5 ATM, up to ~10 days battery.
Why worth it: Ultra lightweight, excellent display, strong tracking in budget class.
Ideal for: Everyday users who prioritise comfort and display quality.
Amazfit GTR Mini
Specs: 1.28″ AMOLED, built‑in GPS, long battery (up to ~14 days), slim body.
Why worth it: Near‑premium tracking in a compact and affordable body.
Ideal for: Outdoor enthusiasts looking for value tracking.
Nothing CMF Watch 3 Pro
Specs: 1.43″ AMOLED, dual‑band GPS (L1+L5), up to 13 days battery life, Bluetooth calling, IP68.
Why worth it: Excellent design + features for under US$100.
Ideal for: Tech‑savvy buyers who want style + performance on a budget.
Noise ColorFit Pro 5
Specs: 1.85″ AMOLED display, IP68 50m rated, Bluetooth calling, 100+ sports modes.
Why worth it: Stylish value pick; great for budget and design‑conscious buyers.
Note: Availability internationally may be limited — check shipping/regional compatibility.
Ideal for: Style‑focused users on tighter budgets (especially in Asia).
Comparison Table
| Model | Approx Price* | Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bip 5 | ~$75 | Large LCD, GPS, calling | First‑time/budget value seekers |
| Active 2 | ~$99–129 | AMOLED, dual‑GPS, 5 ATM, high tracking | Fitness + tracking upgrade |
| Watch Fit 3 | ~$130 | Big AMOLED, ultra‑light (~26g), GPS | Comfort + display focus |
| GTR Mini | ~$140 | Slim build, GPS, long battery | Outdoors tracking value |
| CMF Watch 3 Pro | ~$99 | Premium design, dual‑band GPS, strong value | Tech‑savvy budget buyers |
| ColorFit Pro 5 | ~$60–80 | AMOLED, style, calling | Style + low‑budget |
* Indicative pricing as of June‑2025; regional pricing may vary with discounts common.
Final Verdict
- If you’re keeping to under ~$100, you’ll be more than satisfied with choices like Bip 5 or CMF Watch 3 Pro — you get real smartwatch features for less.
- If you’re willing to spend $120–150, then Active 2, Watch Fit 3 or GTR Mini bring better display, GPS precision and build quality.
- If design and looks matter, the CMF Watch 3 Pro and ColorFit Pro 5 deliver standout aesthetics.
- At the “low‑budget” tier you no longer compromise heavily. You can get GPS, AMOLED (or very large LCD), smart features and decent build. Choose what matters: tracking precision, display, ecosystem.
FAQ
1. Do these budget models support phone calls?
Yes — many models (Bip 5, CMF Watch 3 Pro, ColorFit Pro 5) offer Bluetooth calling when paired to phone.
2. Can they track workouts using GPS?
Yes. Models like Active 2 and Watch Fit 3 include built‑in GPS. Bip 5 has entry‑level GPS; GTR Mini includes GPS. ColorFit Pro 5 may lack GPS depending region — check version.
3. Are they water‑resistant?
Yes — several like Active 2, Watch Fit 3 are rated 5 ATM (50 m). Others like ColorFit Pro 5 use IP68 (dust & water resistant). Always check your region’s model.
4. How good is health tracking accuracy at this price?
For general wellness (heart rate, SpO₂, sleep) the accuracy is good‑to‑very‑good. However, they are not clinical‑grade. GPS accuracy and advanced metrics may lag premium watches. Use them for insights, not diagnoses.
Check out Budget Picks for Hybrid Smartwatches here, Best Hybrid Smartwatches to Buy (Under Budget)
