Best Smartwatches Under $100

Under $100, you won't get a flagship smartwatch, but you can get a capable device with notifications, health tracking, and days of battery. The key is setting the right expectations.

What to expect

Budget smartwatches offer heart-rate tracking, step and sleep tracking, notifications, and basic workout modes. What you give up is the app ecosystem, advanced sensors, and premium build.

What to look for

• A clear, readable display
• Reliable notifications from your phone
• Battery life of several days
• An accurate enough heart-rate sensor

What to avoid

Skip no-name watches with unreliable companion apps, since a bad app ruins the experience. Also be wary of inflated health claims on cheap watches; their sensors are often inaccurate.

Buy a budget watch from a brand with a decent companion app, and prioritize battery and notifications. Under $100, that's where the real value is.