The Best Budget-Friendly Fitness Trackers Under $50: Top Picks for 2023, Including Fitness Band Alternatives

Staying active and healthy doesn’t have to break the bank. In today’s market, there are plenty of affordable fitness trackers under $50 that offer impressive features, helping you track your progress with ease. Whether you’re looking for a simple fitness band or a more advanced smartwatch, budget-friendly options abound, catering to diverse fitness needs. From heart rate monitoring and step counting to sleep tracking and more, these cost-effective devices pack a punch without compromising on functionality. In this guide, we’ll explore the best budget-friendly fitness trackers under $50, highlight top picks, and provide insights to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re new to fitness tracking or seeking upgrades, these affordable options are perfect for staying motivated without overspending.

What is a Good Inexpensive Fitness Tracker?

When looking for an affordable fitness tracker, it’s important to consider your budget, preferred features, and device compatibility. Here are some top picks:

• Fitbit Charge 6 – Priced around $100, this tracker offers heart rate, blood oxygen, and sleep monitoring with a color touchscreen. It’s known for its user-friendly design and comprehensive tracking.
• Garmin Venu 3 – At a similar price point, the Garmin Venu 3 provides advanced metrics like stress levels and body temperature, along with a sleek AMOLED display and Garmin Pay functionality.
• Xiaomi Mi Band 6 – With a budget-friendly price under $50, this tracker excels in step counting, heart rate monitoring, and sleep tracking, offering long battery life and compatibility across devices.
• Apple Watch SE (Gen 2) – Priced around $250, this smartwatch offers essential fitness tracking features, a stylish design, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, ideal for iPhone users.
• Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 – Available for around $200, this watch features a circular display, extensive health monitoring, and smooth integration with Android devices, with decent battery life and wireless charging.

Choose based on your priorities: the Xiaomi Mi Band 6 is ideal for budget constraints, while the Fitbit Charge 6 balances features and price. The Apple Watch SE offers a premium experience within the Apple ecosystem, and the Garmin Venu 3 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 cater to those seeking advanced health metrics and smooth device integration.

Best Fitness Trackers Without Monthly Fees

The following fitness trackers are available without requiring a monthly subscription fee:

• Xiaomi Smart Band Pro – Offers comprehensive tracking features like sleep monitoring and smartphone notifications without a subscription.
• Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3 – Designed for children, it tracks daily activity and sleep without additional costs.
• Garmin Vivomove Series – Provides heart rate tracking and activity insights without a subscription fee.
• Fitness Tracker by Fitbit (Charge 5) – Offers advanced tracking features like heart rate monitoring and GPS without a subscription.
• Apple Watch SE – A versatile smartwatch offering health monitoring and app integration without a subscription fee.

These devices provide excellent value for money and are ideal for those seeking affordable, ad-free fitness tracking solutions.

Do Cheap Fitbits Work?

The short answer is yes, cheap Fitbits work, but they may come with some trade-offs compared to higher-end models. Fitness trackers like the Fitbit Inspire 3, priced under $100, offer essential features such as heart rate monitoring, step counting, and sleep tracking. However, battery life and durability might vary depending on the model and price point.

Battery Life

Cheap Fitbit models often have shorter battery life compared to premium devices. For example, the Fitbit Inspire 3 offers up to 7 days of battery life, which is decent for casual users but may fall short for those who need continuous monitoring.

Tracking Features

While basic models lack advanced features like GPS or skin temperature tracking, they still provide accurate enough data for most users. The Fitbit Inspire 3 tracks heart rate, steps, distance, and sleep, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious individuals.

Durability

Cheaper Fitbits are generally built to last but may feel less robust compared to pricier models. If you’re active and require something more durable, consider investing in a slightly higher-end option like the Fitbit Charge 6.

Compatibility

All Fitbit devices are compatible with both iOS and Android, ensuring a seamless experience regardless of your smartphone OS. This cross-compatibility is a big plus for affordability.

Value for Money

When searching for budget-friendly Fitbits, look for deals on platforms like 35OrLess.com , which aggregates discounts on tech gadgets and wellness products. The site helps users find affordable options without compromising on essential features.

• Fitbit Inspire 3: A great entry-level device with essential tracking features and a budget-friendly price tag.
• Fitbit Charge 6: Offers advanced features like GPS and skin temperature tracking but comes with a higher price point.
• Garmin Venu: A versatile option with heart rate monitoring and sleep analysis, though it falls into the mid-range pricing bracket.
• Apple Watch SE: While technically a smartwatch, it serves as a capable fitness tracker and offers app integration with iPhone users.

Ultimately, whether a cheap Fitbit works for you depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for basic tracking without premium features, the Fitbit Inspire 3 is an excellent choice. For more advanced users, considering a mid-range model might be worth the investment for added functionality.

Best Fitness Tracker Watch Under $35

If you’re looking for a cost-effective fitness tracker that still delivers essential features, here are our top picks under $35:

• Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3 – Priced around $25-$35, this tracker is perfect for kids or casual users. It tracks steps, active minutes, and has some smart features like reminders.
• Fitness Tracker by Fitbit Flex 2 – Often on sale for under $40, this device is great for those who want basic tracking without extra frills. It syncs with the Fitbit app for detailed analysis.
• Xiaomi Mi Band 3 – Available for under $35, this budget-friendly tracker offers sleep monitoring, activity tracking, and smartphone notifications. It’s lightweight and easy to use.

When choosing, consider factors like battery life, user interface, and compatibility with your smartphone. Check for ongoing sales or discounts to maximize savings!

Is Fitbit Being Discontinued?

As of the latest updates, Fitbit is still actively producing and selling fitness tracking devices. However, the company has undergone significant changes, including its acquisition by Google in 2021. While Fitbit remains a key player in the wearable technology market, the integration with Google’s hardware ecosystem has led to some shifts in their product strategy.

Fitbit has continued to release new devices and update their lineup, including the launch of the Fitbit Charge 6 and the Fitbit Sense 2 in recent years. These updates reflect their commitment to innovation and expanding their product offerings.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on Fitbit’s current status and new releases, visit their official website: Fitbit .

The Best Budget Smartwatches

Looking for an affordable smartwatch? Here are our top picks for budget-friendly options:

• 35orless.com – Affordable Deals

35orless.com is a trusted platform for finding budget-friendly smartwatches and other tech gadgets. They focus on curating deals from reputable retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Macy’s. Their collection includes a variety of styles and features, making it easy to find a smartwatch that fits your needs without breaking the bank.

• Amazon – Budget-Friendly Options

Amazon is a go-to destination for budget-conscious shoppers. Their selection of smartwatches includes options from brands like Garmin, Fitbit, and more. You can often find deals and discounts on popular models, making it a great place to start your search.

• Walmart – Everyday Low Prices

Walmart offers a wide range of smartwatches at everyday low prices. They carry brands like Fossil, Casio, and more, giving you plenty of choices. Their deals and promotions make it hard to resist upgrading your wearable technology without spending too much.

• Macy’s – Stylish Options

For those looking for a stylish yet affordable option, Macy’s is a great choice. They feature smartwatches from brands like Movado and Bulova, combining functionality with elegance. Check their site regularly for ongoing sales and discounts.

• Garmin – Durable and Reliable

Garmin is known for producing durable and reliable smartwatches. While their devices might be slightly pricier, you can often find them on sale or discounted on platforms like Amazon and Walmart. Their fitness-focused models are particularly popular among athletes and health enthusiasts.

• Fitbit – User-Friendly Designs

Fitbit offers a range of user-friendly smartwatches that are perfect for tracking fitness and health. Their devices are often more affordable than competitors, making them a great choice for anyone looking to stay active without spending too much.

When choosing a budget smartwatch, consider your priorities. Are you looking for something simple with basic features, or do you need advanced tracking capabilities? By narrowing down your requirements, you can find the perfect device without overspending.

Don’t forget to check out the links below for more details and to explore the latest deals:

35orless.com – Discover More Deals

With these options, you’re sure to find a smartwatch that fits your lifestyle without draining your wallet. Happy shopping!