Looking for a fantastic wearable without breaking the bank? You’re in the right place! Smartwatches have become incredibly popular, offering everything from fitness tracking to hands-free calling, right on your wrist. But often, the top-tier models come with hefty price tags. Good news: you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a great device. In fact, there are plenty of excellent options if you’re searching for the best smart watch under 250 dollars.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a curated list of top-performing, budget-friendly smartwatches that offer impressive features, solid battery life, and reliable performance. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a busy professional, or just someone looking for a convenient way to stay connected, you’re sure to find your perfect match here. Let’s dive into our top picks for the best smart watch under 250!
1. TOOBUR Smart Watch for Men Women, Alexa Built-in
This TOOBUR smartwatch truly stands out by bringing Amazon Alexa directly to your wrist, making it a fantastic companion for smart home enthusiasts and anyone who loves voice commands. Beyond the smart assistant, it’s also a robust fitness tracker with a wide array of sports modes and comprehensive health monitoring, all wrapped up in a waterproof design ready for your adventures. It’s a great example of getting a lot of features when looking for the best smart watch under 250.
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Key Features:
- Alexa built-in for voice commands and smart home control.
- Bluetooth calling and notifications for calls, messages, and social media (cannot reply).
- 100 sports modes for diverse fitness tracking.
- IP68 waterproof rating (up to 5 meters, suitable for swimming).
- 24-hour health monitoring: heart rate, stress levels, sleep quality (REM, light, deep).
- 1.91″ HD screen with over 100 customizable watch faces.
- 7-day battery life with typical use (30 days standby), 2.5 hours charging.
- Compatible with iOS 9.0+ and Android 6.0+.
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Pros:
- Seamless Alexa integration is a major convenience.
- Extensive sports mode selection for varied workouts.
- Reliable IP68 waterproofing.
- Good battery life for uninterrupted use.
- Comprehensive health tracking insights via the VeryFit App.
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Cons:
- Cannot reply to messages directly from the watch.
- Not suitable for diving, sauna, or hot water.
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise its hands-free communication capabilities and the convenience of Alexa on their wrist. Many are also impressed by the accuracy of its health tracking and its durability for daily wear and workouts.
2. BENYAR SMART Military Smart Watches for Men
Designed for the rugged individual, the BENYAR SMART Military Smart Watch is an absolute powerhouse, boasting an incredible 1000mAh battery for up to 65 days of standby time – virtually unheard of in this category! Its military-grade durability means it can withstand tough conditions, while the built-in LED flashlight adds a practical touch. Plus, it comes with three versatile straps to match any occasion, making it a truly adaptable choice among affordable smartwatches.
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Key Features:
- Massive 1000mAh battery, offering up to 65 days of standby.
- Built-in LED flashlight with multiple modes (Steady, Warning, SOS).
- Military-grade durability for shock and pressure resistance.
- 1.75″ HD display for clear visuals.
- Includes 3 interchangeable straps: stainless steel, black silicone, grey sport.
- Bluetooth calling for hands-free conversations.
- Smart notifications for calls, messages, and social media.
- 110+ sport modes with detailed tracking (HR, calories).
- Daily assistant features: heart rate, sleep tracking, music control, remote camera, weather.
- Wide compatibility with Android 4.4+ and iOS 8.0+.
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Pros:
- Unbeatable battery life drastically reduces charging frequency.
- Exceptional durability for outdoor and demanding environments.
- Versatile style options with three included straps.
- Handy built-in flashlight for emergencies or low light.
- Extensive sport tracking and essential smart features.
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Cons:
- Its robust design might be a bit bulky for some users.
- Primarily aimed at men, with a distinctly masculine aesthetic.
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User Impressions: Customers are blown away by the watch’s endurance, often highlighting the long battery life as its strongest asset. Its tough build and practical features like the flashlight also receive high marks from those who lead active or outdoor lifestyles.
3. HOAIYO Smart Watch for Men Women, 1.95″ Touchscreen
The HOAIYO Smart Watch grabs attention with its large, vibrant 1.95″ touchscreen and a surprising array of smart features, including an AI Voice Assistant and even built-in relaxation games! It’s designed to make your daily life smoother, offering seamless Bluetooth calling and extensive sports tracking to keep you connected and active. For anyone seeking a feature-rich experience on a budget, this is a top contender for the best smart watch under 250.
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Key Features:
- Bluetooth calling with clear mic and speaker.
- Large 1.95″ touchscreen display.
- 16 built-in sports modes, expandable to 115+ via app.
- Continuous heart rate and blood oxygen tracking.
- Notifications from popular social media apps and music control.
- Built-in AI Voice Assistant for hands-free commands.
- Unique built-in relaxation games.
- 280mAh battery: up to 8 days use, 2-3 hour quick charge.
- Compatible with iOS 12.0+ and Android 6.0+.
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Pros:
- Generous screen size for easy viewing and interaction.
- AI Voice Assistant adds significant convenience.
- Unique relaxation games provide a fun break.
- Comprehensive sport modes cater to diverse fitness needs.
- Solid battery life for daily use.
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Cons:
- The large display might feel oversized on smaller wrists.
- Specific iOS compatibility might exclude older iPhone models.
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User Impressions: Users love the bright, expansive screen and find the AI voice assistant incredibly helpful for quick tasks. The unexpected inclusion of games and the broad range of fitness tracking also make it a popular choice for daily wear.
4. Military Smart Watch Sport Fitness Tracker, with LED…
This military-standard smartwatch is built to endure, perfect for anyone who needs a rugged, dependable device for outdoor adventures or tough workouts. Featuring a massive 2.02” display, a sturdy metal bezel, and a practical side flashlight, it combines extreme durability with comprehensive smart functionalities. It’s truly designed to be a companion through thick and thin, making it a standout pick for a robust smart health watch.
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Key Features:
- Military standard design: waterproof, shockproof, dustproof.
- Side flashlight for outdoor or indoor lighting.
- 100+ sports modes for diverse activity tracking.
- 24/7 health monitoring: heart rate, blood oxygen, sleep quality, hydration/sedentary reminders.
- Bluetooth calling with built-in mic and speaker.
- Message notifications from popular apps.
- Large 2.02” touch screen with military metal bezel and 3ATM waterproof rating.
- 100+ customizable watch faces, including personalized photos.
- 400mAh battery: 7 days usage, 20 days standby after 2.5 hours charging.
- Additional functions: camera/music control, weather, alarm, stopwatch, calculator.
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Pros:
- Exceptional durability makes it suitable for extreme conditions.
- Very large and clear display enhances readability.
- Full Bluetooth calling and notification support.
- Practical built-in flashlight is a useful addition.
- Strong battery life provides extended use.
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Cons:
- Its large size and rugged aesthetic might not appeal to everyone.
- 3ATM waterproof rating is good for splashes/rain, but not deep diving.
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User Impressions: This watch is highly praised by individuals who need a tough, reliable device that can keep up with their active lifestyle. The big screen and functional flashlight are often cited as favorite features, alongside its robust health monitoring.
5. Yihou Fitness Tracker Heart Rate Blood Pressure Watch Blood…
The Yihou Fitness Tracker sets itself apart with its dedicated focus on comprehensive health monitoring, notably including blood pressure alongside heart rate and sleep tracking – a feature often absent in this price range. It’s a straightforward, effective device for anyone prioritizing insights into their physical condition without needing all the bells and whistles of a full-fledged smartwatch. If health is your primary concern for an affordable smartwatch, this could be your pick.
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Key Features:
- All-day activity tracking: steps, distance, calories burned.
- Blood Pressure and Heart Rate monitoring with direct display on watch.
- Sleep monitor: automatically records and analyzes sleep quality.
- Text and call reminders (read messages, hang up calls).
- Calories counter and sedentary reminder.
- Up to 7 days of battery life on a full charge.
- Syncs data with the “GloryFit” mobile app.
- Soft, bright band and fashion color screen.
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Pros:
- Includes blood pressure monitoring, a significant health feature.
- Offers essential health and activity tracking.
- Decent battery life for continuous use.
- Simple and easy to use for daily monitoring.
- Great value for health-focused users.
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Cons:
- Connectivity requires the specific “GloryFit” app, not direct Bluetooth pairing.
- May lack advanced smartwatch features like extensive app support or voice assistants.
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User Impressions: Users highly appreciate its focus on health metrics, particularly the blood pressure tracking, which provides valuable daily insights. It’s often recommended for those seeking an accessible way to keep tabs on their vital signs and activity levels.
6. GOLDEN HOUR Ultra-Thin Minimalist Sports Waterproof Digital…
While not a “smartwatch” in the typical sense of app support or advanced health sensors, the GOLDEN HOUR digital watch offers exceptional value for those seeking a highly durable, ultra-thin, and waterproof timepiece with essential digital functions. Its minimalist design and impressive 5ATM water resistance make it ideal for swimmers or anyone wanting a robust, no-frills watch that can stand up to daily life, making it a different kind of contender for the best smart watch under 250 if simplicity and durability are your priorities.
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Key Features:
- Digital multifunctionality: EL backlight, 12/24H, stopwatch, alarm, date, day.
- Ultra-thin metal steel case (only 8mm thickness).
- Adjustable 250mm soft rubber strap (fits up to 9.8-inch wrist).
- 43mm alloy steel case with hardlex glass.
- 5ATM waterproof: suitable for swimming in shallow water and cold showers.
- Designed for sports and outdoor activities.
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Pros:
- Sleek, minimalist, and exceptionally thin design.
- Impressive 5ATM water resistance for swimming.
- Durable metal case and hardlex glass.
- Provides essential digital watch functions clearly.
- Comfortable and adjustable rubber strap.
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Cons:
- Lacks “smart” features like notifications, health tracking (beyond time/stopwatch), or app connectivity.
- More of a rugged digital watch than a true smartwatch.
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User Impressions: Customers love its stylish yet understated look and its robust build. The strong water resistance is a frequent highlight, making it a reliable choice for active individuals who prefer a straightforward, durable digital watch.
7. Smart Health Watch – No Contracts – One-Time Cost -…
This “Smart Health Watch” is a unique and vital device, primarily designed for safety and medical alert purposes rather than general smartwatch functions. Its standout features are the ability to call 911 directly, two-way voice communication, and fall detection, all without needing a paired cell phone or recurring monthly fees. For peace of mind for seniors or individuals with specific health concerns, this offers incredible value and could be considered the best smart watch under 250 for dedicated emergency support.
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Key Features:
- Directly calls 911 in emergencies.
- 2-Way Voice Communication for direct contact.
- Cellular connectivity built-in (does not need a cell phone to operate).
- Fall Detection for automatic alerts.
- Functions as a Medical Alert Watch.
- Waterproof design.
- One-time cost with no monthly fees or contracts.
- Standard wrist strap, easily replaceable.
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Pros:
- Crucial life-saving features like emergency calling and fall detection.
- Operates completely independently, no phone needed.
- No ongoing subscription costs, a significant long-term saving.
- Provides immense peace of mind for users and their families.
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Cons:
- Not a general-purpose smartwatch; lacks features like fitness tracking, notifications, or app support.
- Designed for a very specific, niche purpose.
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User Impressions: This watch receives overwhelmingly positive feedback for its life-saving capabilities and the independence it provides. Users, especially those buying for elderly family members, commend the no-contract model and the reliability of its emergency features.
8. Citizen CZ Smart PQ2 42mm Hybrid Silver and Black…
The Citizen CZ Smart PQ2 is a sophisticated “smarter hybrid” smartwatch that blends classic analog aesthetics with advanced digital features. Its most impressive attribute is the phenomenal 18-day battery life, coupled with the unique CZ Smart YouQ wellness app, developed with NASA Ames Center research and IBM Watson AI. This app offers personalized insights into your chronotype and daily alertness, making it a genuinely smart health companion. It’s an elegant and innovative choice if you’re seeking the best smart watch under 250 that offers a premium feel.
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Key Features:
- Hybrid design: analog hands with a hidden digital display.
- Impressive 18-day battery life (usage dependent) and fast charging.
- CZ Smart YouQ wellness app: uses NASA research & IBM Watson AI to analyze chronotype, alertness, and provide “Power Fixes.”
- Monitors HR, SpO2, fitness activity, and sleep to offer a 24-hour alertness forecast.
- Built-in Amazon Alexa for voice commands.
- Smart notifications for calls, texts, emails, and calendar.
- Citizen Connected App for Golf Report, Live Sports, and smart home sync (Nest, Hue, Yale Lock).
- Compatible with latest Android and iOS versions.
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Pros:
- Exceptional battery life for a smart-featured watch.
- Unique AI-powered wellness insights for optimizing your day.
- Elegant hybrid design offers the best of both worlds.
- Alexa built-in and smart home integration enhance convenience.
- Premium brand reputation.
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Cons:
- Hybrid nature means less direct screen interaction compared to full-digital smartwatches.
- Price may be closer to the top end of the $250 budget.
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User Impressions: Reviewers are captivated by its sleek design and the remarkable battery longevity. The innovative YouQ wellness app is a major draw, providing users with actionable insights into their energy levels and sleep patterns, setting it apart from typical smartwatches.
9. Armitron Connect Lunar Smartwatch, Health and Fitness…
The Armitron Connect Lunar Smartwatch is a well-rounded and versatile option that packs a lot of features into an affordable package. It’s a solid choice for daily wear, offering comprehensive health tracking, essential communication features like calls and message notifications, and practical additional functions like a voice assistant and GPS connection. If you’re after an all-in-one daily driver for the best smart watch under 250, this is definitely one to consider.
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Key Features:
- Health monitoring: heart rate, blood oxygen, calories, sleep, menstrual cycle.
- Activity tracking: step counter, various sport modes, reminders to move and hydrate.
- Make and receive calls directly from the watch.
- Receive message notifications and save favorite contacts.
- Voice assistant, GPS connection (via phone), camera control, music control.
- Weather updates and alarms.
- Free Armitron Connect app for Android 5.0+ and iOS 9.0+ with customizable watch faces.
- IP68 Water resistance.
- Up to four days of battery life on a full charge.
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Pros:
- Offers a broad range of health and fitness tracking capabilities.
- Full call and notification support for daily convenience.
- IP68 water resistance ensures durability.
- Voice assistant and music control add valuable smart features.
- Good value for its comprehensive feature set.
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Cons:
- Battery life (4 days) is decent but not exceptional compared to some alternatives.
- GPS functionality relies on connecting to your phone.
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User Impressions: Users frequently commend its comprehensive set of features for the price, finding it a reliable everyday companion for fitness tracking and staying connected. The ability to answer calls on the watch is a popular highlight.
10. Fossil 44mm Gen 5 Carlyle Stainless Steel and Leather…
The Fossil Gen 5 Carlyle offers a premium Wear OS by Google experience in a stylish package, often found within the $250 budget (especially during sales). It combines Fossil’s renowned design with Google’s robust smartwatch platform, providing extensive app support, built-in GPS, and seamless integration with both Android and iPhone. For those seeking a full-featured smartwatch with a focus on smart apps and a classic aesthetic, this remains a strong contender for the best smart watch under 250.
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Key Features:
- Powered by Wear OS by Google, compatible with iPhone and Android phones.
- 44mm case size, 22mm interchangeable bands.
- 24+ hour battery life with multi-day extended modes; charges up to 80% in under an hour.
- Heart Rate & Activity Tracking using Google Fit; Built-in GPS for distance.
- Swimproof design (3ATM).
- Wellness enhancements: track sleep history, monitor restfulness, set sleep goals.
- Always-on display with thousands of customizable watch faces.
- Hundreds of apps: assistant, fitness, payments, music, social, news, games, etc.
- Smart functions: notifications for calls, texts, apps; automatic time/time zone/calendar syncing; answer/make calls directly from watch.
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Pros:
- Full Wear OS ecosystem provides vast app selection and Google Assistant.
- Stylish, classic Fossil design with interchangeable bands.
- Built-in GPS for accurate activity tracking without a phone.
- Fast charging capability.
- Comprehensive health and fitness tracking, including sleep.
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Cons:
- Battery life (24+ hours) is typical for Wear OS but less than hybrid models.
- May occasionally creep above the $250 mark depending on sales and specific retailers.
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the Fossil Gen 5’s stylish appearance and the smooth performance of Wear OS. The access to Google’s app ecosystem and the ability to customize watch faces are highly valued, making it a popular choice for those wanting a versatile and fashionable smartwatch.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in the Best Smart Watch Under $250
When you’re trying to find the best smart watch under 250, it’s all about balancing features with your budget. Here’s a quick rundown of what to consider:
- Compatibility: Ensure the smartwatch works seamlessly with your smartphone’s operating system (Android or iOS). Most affordable smartwatches are compatible with both, but it’s always worth double-checking.
- Key Features: What do you need it for?
- Fitness & Health: Look for heart rate monitoring, step tracking, sleep analysis, and various sports modes. Some even offer blood oxygen or blood pressure. Built-in GPS is great if you want to track runs without your phone.
- Communication: Do you want to answer calls, send quick replies to texts, or get social media notifications on your wrist?
- Smart Assistant: Features like Alexa or a built-in AI voice assistant can add significant convenience.
- NFC Payments: If you want to pay with your watch, ensure it has NFC. (Less common in the under $250 range, but possible).
- Battery Life: This is a big one. Some smartwatches last a day or two, while others, particularly hybrids, can go for weeks. Think about how often you’re willing to charge.
- Display Quality: A bright, clear display (AMOLED or LCD) makes a big difference in readability, especially outdoors. Consider screen size for ease of use.
- Durability & Water Resistance: If you’re active, look for robust builds, IP ratings (IP68 is common and good for swimming), or military-grade standards.
- Design & Comfort: Smartwatches come in various styles – sporty, classic, minimalist. Consider the material, weight, and how comfortable it feels for all-day wear. Many offer interchangeable straps for customization.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What can I expect from a smart watch under $250?
A: You can expect a surprisingly robust set of features! Most smartwatches in this price range offer comprehensive health and fitness tracking (heart rate, steps, sleep), notifications for calls and texts, music control, and often Bluetooth calling. Some even include AI voice assistants, built-in GPS (or connected GPS), and impressive battery life.
Q2: Are budget smartwatches reliable for health tracking?
A: Generally, yes. While professional medical devices offer the highest accuracy, many affordable smartwatches provide reliable data for general fitness and health awareness. They’re excellent for tracking trends in your heart rate, sleep patterns, and daily activity. Always remember they are not medical devices and should not be used for diagnosis.
Q3: Can I make calls directly from a smart watch under $250?
A: Absolutely! Many models in this price range, like the TOOBUR, BENYAR, HOAIYO, Armitron, and Military Smart Watch, come with a built-in microphone and speaker, allowing you to answer and make calls directly from your wrist, as long as it’s connected to your phone via Bluetooth.
Q4: How long does the battery typically last on smartwatches under $250?
A: Battery life varies significantly. Full-featured smartwatches with vibrant displays and extensive app support might last 1-4 days. However, hybrid smartwatches or those with simpler operating systems can last anywhere from a week to several weeks (e.g., the BENYAR with its 65-day standby). Check the product specifications carefully!
Q5: Are these affordable smartwatches compatible with both Android and iPhone?
A: Most smartwatches in this category are designed to be compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones. However, it’s crucial to check the specific operating system versions (e.g., Android 6.0+ or iOS 9.0+) required by each watch to ensure seamless connectivity with your device.
Q6: What’s the main difference between a fitness tracker and a smartwatch in this price range?
A: While there’s overlap, a “fitness tracker” typically focuses solely on health metrics (steps, heart rate, sleep) and might have a smaller, simpler display. A “smartwatch” offers these features plus more advanced connectivity like phone notifications, Bluetooth calling, app support, and often a larger, more interactive display. Many budget-friendly smartwatches blur this line, offering strong fitness tracking alongside their smart features.
Q7: Is it worth buying a refurbished premium smartwatch instead of a new one under $250?
A: It can be. A refurbished premium smartwatch (like an older Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch) might offer features that new watches under $250 don’t, such as advanced NFC payments or a richer app ecosystem. However, refurbished models come with potential downsides like shorter battery life, limited warranty, or older software versions. Always buy from reputable sellers with a good return policy if you go this route.
Conclusion
Finding the best smart watch under 250 dollars doesn’t mean compromising on quality or features. As our list shows, the market is brimming with fantastic, affordable smartwatches that cater to every need, from rugged adventurers to health enthusiasts and busy professionals.
By considering your primary needs – whether it’s battery life, advanced health tracking, communication features, or sheer durability – you can confidently pick a wearable that delivers incredible value without emptying your wallet. So go ahead, find your perfect wrist companion, and enjoy the convenience of smart technology!
