10 Best Budget Running Watches of 2025 (Under $100)

If you’re a beginner or simply looking for a low-cost option, running watches under $50 cover the basics: step counting, distance estimation, and heart rate monitoring (albeit sometimes less accurate than pricier models). They often rely on your smartphone’s GPS instead of a built-in chip, but for casual runners, that’s usually more than enough. Expect excellent battery life - some can go over a week per charge - and features like syncing with popular fitness apps.

Some Great Picks Are:

1. KEEPONFIT Smart Watch ($39.99)

2. Sanorum Smart Watch ($49.99)

3. Amazfit Band 7 Fitness and Activity Tracker ($49.99)

What Makes Them Stand Out:

• Budget-Friendly: Ideal for beginners who don’t need advanced metrics.

• Long Battery Life: Often 7+ days on a single charge.

• Basic Tracking: Step counting, calories burned, and distance estimates.

• Heart Rate Monitoring: Good for keeping tabs on general fitness levels.

• Refurbished Deals: Potential to snag higher-end brands at a discount.

Things to Note:

• No Built-in GPS: Most rely on your phone for distance tracking.

• Accuracy Variations: Heart rate and distance metrics may not match premium devices.

• Limited Features: No advanced metrics like cadence or interval training.

• Build Quality: Lower price may mean a lower-quality build 

As prices edge into the $50-$80 range, you’ll start finding more robust fitness watches. Built-in GPS becomes more common, giving you accurate pace and distance tracking without carrying your phone. Heart rate monitoring also improves, providing better insights into workout intensity. Some of these watches even have different tracking for activities like cycling and walking, and many come with water-resistant designs to handle sweat or light rain.

Some Great Picks Are:

1. CMF Watch Pro 2025 Upgrade Smart Watch ($59.00)

2. FITVII Health & Fitness Tracker ($79.99)

3. Wontrum Health Fitness Tracker Smart Watch ($79.99)

What Makes Them Stand Out:

• Built-in GPS: More accurate tracking for running without a phone.

• Improved Heart Rate Monitoring: Better data for pacing and workout intensity.

• Multi-Sport Modes: Track various workouts beyond running.

• Sleep Tracking: Monitor recovery and overall wellness.

• Water Resistance: Ensures durability in sweat or rain.

• Smart Notifications: Stay connected with call, text, and app alerts.

Things to Note:

• 5-10 Days Battery Life: Varies if GPS is used frequently.

• Entry-Level Durability: Good enough for regular workouts but might not withstand extreme conditions.

• Limited Advanced Metrics: Some watches may not offer advanced interval settings or VO2 max estimates.

For under $100, you can still find running watches that cater to more serious runners. Full GPS tracking is standard, along with advanced training metrics like pace alerts, heart rate zones, and possibly VO2 max estimates. Battery life often remains strong, even with regular GPS use, and some models include music control so you can adjust tracks without digging out your phone. These watches also tend to have more durable builds, making them reliable companions for frequent training.

Some Great Picks Are:

1. Amazfit Bip 5 Smart Watch 46mm ($89.99)

2. Fitpolo Smart Watch ($92.99)

3. Fitbit Inspire 3 Health & Fitness Tracker ($99.75)

4. Amazfit Active Smart Watch 42mm ($109.99)

What Makes Them Stand Out:

• Full GPS Tracking: Independent distance and route mapping.

• Advanced Training Metrics: Options like pace alerts, heart rate zones, and VO2 max.

• Music Control: Adjust your playlist on the go.

• Rugged Build: Scratch-resistant screens and sturdy designs for serious runners.

• Better Smartwatch Integration: Notifications, alarms, and weather updates.

• Robust Battery Life: GPS-enabled sessions can last 8-20 hours on a single charge.

Things to Note:

• Price Ceiling: Hovers just below $100, offering high value without premium cost.

• Heavier or Bulkier: Added features may mean a slightly larger watch face.

• Not Entirely Premium: Doesn’t match flagship models in advanced analytics or brand support.