Smartwatches 2026: Technology without the high price tag
January 6, 2026
Smartwatches are now available for all tastes – some people buy them for sports, while others just want to receive notifications and not miss calls. But almost everyone wants the same thing: watches that don't cost half a salary, work reliably, and don't look outdated after a few months.
This selection includes such models. Not cheap toys from sales and not overpriced flagships, but smart, relevant devices that you can trust with everyday tasks. Just watches that do their job – and do it well.
1. Garmin Forerunner 165 Music Berry/Lilac
Garmin Forerunner 165 is a smartwatch for those who want to train without unnecessary hassle. No complex features to confuse you – just the essential functions. A lightweight body, a comfortable strap, a screen that is visible both outdoors and indoors. Turn it on – and go running.
You can listen to music directly from the watch, receive notifications, track your pulse and steps, and follow workout suggestions. Everything is simple and understandable. Suitable for beginners as well as those who already run regularly. The battery lasts for long days, so you don't need to remember to charge it every evening.
Key Highlights:
Comfortable and lightweight, they don't get in the way while wearing
Bright screen – visible even in sunlight
Built-in player: run without your phone
Compatibility with Garmin Coach
Specifications:
Memory: 4 GB
Screen: AMOLED
Protection: glass, water resistance
Battery: up to 11 days (up to 17 hours with maximum functionality)
2. HUAWEI Watch Fit 4 Pro Green
HUAWEI Watch Fit 4 Pro is something in between a smartwatch and a fitness tracker, but it feels more like a full-fledged watch. Lightweight, with titanium inserts and sapphire glass, it sits comfortably on the wrist, doesn't catch on clothes, and is barely noticeable throughout the day.
The display is rich, and the interface is fast, nothing lags. There is GPS, heart rate, skin temperature, SpO2 sensors – and all this works even without an internet connection. Navigation is offline, with voice prompts. You can track both your workouts and your health. The battery lasts reliably – a few days even with active use.
Key Highlights:
Titanium and sapphire – elegant and durable
GPS works without the phone
Navigation and voice prompts
Sensors: heart rate, SpO2, skin temperature
Specifications:
Screen: AMOLED
Protection: 5 ATM
Battery: up to 7 days (typical use)
3. Apple Watch Series 10 GPS 42mm Jet Black
Apple Watch Series 10 is a choice for those who are already into Apple and don't want to deal with complicated settings. Everything works right out of the box: connection takes seconds, no long setup. They look sleek but expensive: aluminum body, borderless display, always-on lighting – they look neat.
As for functions – it has everything you need: ECG, heart rate, SpO2, sleep tracking, stress levels. You can take calls, make payments from the watch, and listen to music. Perfect for everyday use, walks, and workouts without excessive fanaticism. The key thing – everything is stable, fast, and without any fuss.
Key Highlights:
OLED display with Always-On feature
Instant synchronization with iPhone and Apple services
Health sensors: ECG, heart rate, SpO2
Supports Apple Pay and calls
Specifications:
Processor: Apple S10 SiP
Memory: 64 GB
Screen: OLED
Protection: IP6X, glass
4. Garmin Instinct E 45mm Black with Charcoal Band
Garmin Instinct E is for those who aren't chasing trends but are looking for watches that simply work. They don't try to be everything at once – and that's a plus. These are watches for hiking, for the outdoors, for those who need a device that won't fail them in the forest or during a run.
The screen is not the brightest, but it's still readable at any time of the day. The battery lasts long, the menu is simple, nothing distracts. There is navigation, activity tracking, sleep tracking, steps, heart rate – everything is there. The case is sturdy, resistant to shocks, and water-resistant. Overall – a reliable option that doesn't demand much attention.
Key Highlights:
Protected case for active conditions
Long battery life
Navigation and activity tracking
Stable operation without distractions
Specifications:
Screen: MIP
Protection: Chemically hardened glass
Battery: up to 16 days (typical use)
5. Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 40mm Cream
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 is a versatile option for everyday use. They look neat, suitable for both business style and casual wear. Lightweight, don't get in the way on the wrist, the screen is bright, everything scrolls and taps without delays. Especially convenient for those who use Android – everything feels familiar, everything is in its place.
It has enough functions: tracks sleep, heart rate, activity, offers workouts, notifications, calls. You can pay from the watch, control music. No extra functions that aren't needed – just balanced watches that control everything.
Key Highlights:
AMOLED display with good brightness
Wear OS and familiar apps
All the basics for health and sports
Calls and payments directly from the watch
Specifications:
Processor: Samsung Exynos W1000
Memory: 32 GB
Screen: AMOLED
Protection: IP68
Battery: 300 mAh
6. Apple Watch Series 9 GPS 41mm Silver
Apple Watch Series 9 – for those who use iPhone and don't want any complications. They connect quickly, everything synchronizes automatically, no need for manual setup. The design is familiar: the body is compact, the display is bright, everything is visible at first glance. Put them on and forget – that's how a good device works.
The watches display heart rate, oxygen, count steps, track sleep – all the standard features are in place. You can make calls directly from the wrist, pay with Apple Pay, and they don’t overwhelm you with notifications for every little thing. A great option if you want reliability and convenience in one package.
Key Highlights:
Instant synchronization with iOS
Always-On display, visible all the time
Everything you need for health and activity
Calls, messages, Apple Pay
Specifications:
Processor: Apple S9
Memory: 64 GB
Screen: OLED
Protection: Glass, IP68
Battery: up to 18 hours
7. Garmin Venu 3 Silver Stainless Steel Bezel with Whitestone Case and Silicone Band
Garmin Venu 3 – these are everyday watches. A calm design without the sporty hype, suitable both for the office and for workouts. They sit neatly on the wrist, not drawing attention. The AMOLED display is clear, and the information is easy to read, whether it's outside or inside the gym.
The features are balanced: sleep, heart rate, activity, recovery – everything is tracked without any excess. There is navigation, built-in memory for music, you can make calls, pay, and everything works without lag. Perfect for those who don't want to choose between convenience and functionality – here you have both.
Key Highlights:
Clear AMOLED display
For workouts and everyday life
Music storage and calls directly from the watch
Navigation, heart rate, recovery
Specifications:
Memory: 8 GB
Screen: AMOLED
Battery: up to 14 days (maximum functionality)
8. HUAWEI Watch GT 4 41mm White
HUAWEI Watch GT 4 is for those who not only look at the features but also care about appearance. They look neat – closer to classic than sporty. The body is compact, and they sit perfectly on a small wrist. The display is bright, colors are vivid, and the interface is intuitive.
The functionality is balanced: sleep, steps, heart rate, oxygen – everything is tracked reliably. Training is supported, there is navigation, and you can make calls. They work with both Android and iOS. These are perfect for those who want watches that handle everyday tasks and look good at the same time.
Key Highlights:
Compact body, ideal for a narrow wrist
Neat, restrained style
AMOLED display with bright visuals
Tracking sleep, activity, heart rate
Specifications:
Screen: AMOLED
Protection: 5 ATM
Battery: 524 mAh
9. Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 GPS Shadow Black
Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 GPS – watches for those who want more freedom and to make the most of Wear OS. Yes, they look a bit bulkier than classic ones, but there's a reason: there are two displays inside, one for brightness, the other for battery saving. Convenient when you just need to check the time without draining the battery unnecessarily.
In everyday mode, the watches handle messages, navigation, workouts, and also support contactless payments via Google Pay. Everything important is at hand. They are suitable for those who don’t want a decorative accessory but need a functional device with good autonomy and Android compatibility.
Key Highlights:
Wear OS: everything from Google at hand
GPS, music, Google Pay – all work
For sports, walks, and everyday life
Great compatibility with Android
Specifications:
Processor: Snapdragon Wear 4100+
Memory: 8 GB
Screen: AMOLED + FSTN
Protection: IP68
Battery: 72 hours
10. Garmin Instinct 2X Solar Moss
Garmin Instinct 2X Solar – it's not about looks, but reliability. These watches are not shy about their "outdoor" appearance. A large body, protected screen, everything is as utilitarian as possible. And that's a plus, especially if the watches are needed not for the office but for an active outdoor trip.
The main bonus is solar charging. The battery lasts for a long time, and in the sun, they almost don't run out of charge. They track pulse, steps, sleep, and have navigation. The display is readable even under direct sunlight. Overall, they are perfect for those who are often on the move and don't want to look for a socket every day.
Key Highlights:
Sturdy body, resistant to both shocks and water
The display is visible both in the daytime and in any weather
All the essential sensors in place
For hiking, running, and active everyday life
Specifications:
Screen: Transflective
Protection: Water-resistant, glass
Battery: up to 40 days (typical use)
11. Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic 43mm eSIM Silver
Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic – these smartwatches look like regular ones. A metal body, rotating bezel – everything like in the classic design. Inside, however, they have everything you need: calls without a phone, payments, health tracking, AMOLED display with excellent brightness. They sit comfortably on the wrist, not drawing attention, but you can feel that they are quality items.
They work quickly, the interface is intuitive, especially if you're already using Android. They support eSIM, so you can confidently leave your smartphone at home. Suitable both for everyday life and workouts. A great option for those who want smartwatches without unnecessary hype but with proper functionality.
Key Highlights:
Connection via eSIM – make calls without your smartphone
AMOLED display with excellent brightness
All the basic functions for health and sports
Full integration with Android environment
Specifications:
Processor: Samsung Exynos W930
Memory: 16 GB
Screen: AMOLED
Protection: IP68
Battery: 300 mAh
12. Garmin Venu Sq 2
Garmin Venu Sq 2 – this is a great option for those who want to wear smartwatches every day without worrying about charging. The body is lightweight, they sit comfortably on the wrist, the display is bright, and the colors are vivid – everything is visible both indoors and outdoors. They support both Android and iPhone, and you can control music or respond to messages directly from the wrist.
Inside, you get everything you need: sleep tracking, heart rate, SpO2, breathing exercises, sports modes, including swimming. Garmin Pay is supported – you can make payments without pulling out your card. The battery lasts for a long time, so you won't need to carry a charger with you. The touchscreen is responsive, the glass doesn’t scratch, and the body is water-resistant.
Key Highlights:
Bright and readable display
Battery lasts more than a week
Garmin Pay – convenient payments
Sensors for sleep, heart rate, and workouts
Specifications:
Screen: AMOLED
Protection: Water-resistant, Corning Gorilla Glass 3
Battery: up to 11 days (typical use)
13. Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Classic
Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Classic – watches with character. Great design, steel body, rotating bezel – they look solid and at the same time are easy to use. The AMOLED display is bright, sharp, and everything is visible even under the sun. They sit confidently on the wrist without being too tight – perfect for both the office and a run.
They have many functions: sleep, heart rate, ECG, temperature, GPS – all can be tracked. You can make calls, control music, and make payments. There's enough memory for tracks, so you can leave your phone at home. Fast charging, they work quickly, especially if you have a Samsung – everything syncs smoothly.
Key Highlights:
AMOLED display with sapphire glass
Full set of health sensors
Payments, calls, GPS – all in place
Great integration with Android environment
Specifications:
Processor: Samsung Exynos W1000
Memory: 64 GB
Screen: AMOLED
Protection: IP68, sapphire glass, shock resistance
Battery: 445 mAh
14. OnePlus Watch 3
OnePlus Watch 3 – a straightforward “everything you need” option. They look sleek, steel body, bright screen, the interface works without lags. The watch faces can be changed to match your mood, they are water-resistant, and overall – the watches feel reliable.
They work quickly, track heart rate, sleep, and activity. There are sports modes, dual GPS, and fast charging. You can listen to music without your phone, and contactless payment is also available. Battery life is a few days without issues, especially if you don’t push them to the max.
Key Highlights:
Clear display, readable even under the sun
Tracks sleep, stress, and sports
Fast charging, lasts for several days
Steel body, water-resistant
Specifications:
Processor: Snapdragon W5 Gen 1
Memory: 32 GB
Screen: AMOLED
Protection: MIL-STD-810H
Battery: 631 mAh
15. Apple Watch SE 2
Apple Watch SE 2 – this is an option for those who want “smartwatches” without any excess. They look simple but neat, are almost unnoticeable on the wrist, the screen is bright, and everything works fast. They work perfectly with iPhones: connect them – and forget about it, no hassle.
The functions are all basic: steps, heart rate, sleep, notifications. There is SOS and emergency calls, and you can make payments via Apple Pay. You can also swim with them – they are moisture-resistant. The battery, like in all Apple devices, lasts a day, but that’s enough. Overall, the watches are stable, intuitive, and for their price – a fair choice.
Key Highlights:
Light aluminum body
All the essentials: heart rate, steps, sleep, SOS
Apple Pay works without issues
Bright display, but no Always-On feature
Specifications:
Processor: Apple S8
Memory: 32 GB
Screen: OLED
Protection: WR50
16. Garmin Vivomove Sport
Garmin Vivomove Sport – these are watches for those who want to look classic but have a bit more than just hands. From the outside – regular watches with an analog dial, but under the glass, there's a hidden touchscreen. A very unusual solution that immediately catches attention.
The functions are all the basics: steps, heart rate, sleep, notifications. There’s GPS, so you can run without your phone. The body is lightweight, and wearing them is comfortable all day. The colors are unobtrusive, they don’t shout about themselves. They sync via the Garmin app, and work with both Android and iOS. Battery life lasts up to several days, and charging is quick.
Key Highlights:
Analog hands + hidden screen
Look stylish both during the day and at the gym
All basic sensors in place
Lightweight and unobtrusive
Specifications:
Screen: OLED
Protection: Glass
Battery: up to 5 days
17. Google Pixel Watch 3
Google Pixel Watch 3 – minimalism in a good sense. These watches are small, neat, with nothing extra. A round display, bright, smooth controls. The body is aluminum, and the straps change in a second. They sit comfortably on the wrist, especially if you have Android – synchronization is seamless.
As for the features – it’s the full set: heart rate, sleep, SpO2, temperature, ECG. They run on Wear OS, have calls, NFC, GPS – all included. Fitbit support makes them especially convenient for activity tracking. The battery lasts about a day, but they charge quickly, so no problem with that.
Key Highlights:
Light and minimalist design
Deep integration with Google services
Sensors for everything: from heart rate to temperature
Supports calls, messages, payments
Specifications:
Processor: Qualcomm SW5100
Memory: 32 GB
Screen: AMOLED
Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 5
Battery: 307 mAh
18. Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra Titanium Gray
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra – for those who want everything in one watch: workouts, calls, payments. The body is made of titanium, looks reliable, but sits comfortably on the wrist – no feeling of heaviness even during active movements. The display is bright, the interface runs smoothly, and the response is immediate.
In terms of features, it’s the full set: GPS, heart rate, sleep, pressure, temperature, SpO2 sensors. You can make calls, listen to music, and make payments. They run on Wear OS, so the apps are almost unlimited. These watches are great both for workouts and everyday use – especially for those who want everything at hand and nothing slowing them down.
Key Highlights:
AMOLED display: bright, clear, sensitive
Advanced health sensor set
Calls, music, GPS, payments – everything included
Excellent integration with Android
Specifications:
Processor: Samsung Exynos W1000
Memory: 32 GB
Screen: AMOLED
Protection: IP68, shock resistance
Battery: 590 mAh
19. Garmin Instinct 2 - Standard Edition Graphite
Garmin Instinct 2 – these are not about fashion. They are about reliability – watches that you can wear in the woods, during a run, or in the rain. The body has no decorative curves, but it lasts longer than any paint. Shock, water, dust – none of these are a problem for them. The display is simple but readable even in sunlight.
They work for a long time without constant charging. They track sleep, activity, heart rate, routes. The settings are not overloaded, and the interface is intuitive – everything is within reach. A great option for those who are often outdoors, on the go, or simply don’t want to deal with charging every evening.
Key Highlights:
Sturdy, indestructible body
Readable display even in bright sunlight
Up to a month without charging
Basic sensors + GPS
Specifications:
Screen: MiP
Protection: shockproof, water-resistant
Battery: up to 28 days (typical use)
20. HUAWEI Watch GT 5 46 mm Brown
HUAWEI Watch GT 5 is an example where the smart watch doesn’t look like a gadget. The stainless steel case and leather strap make it feel like a classic wristwatch. But inside – everything is smart: an AMOLED display, clear interface, and user-friendly controls. It fits well with casual outfits, but doesn’t feel out of place with business attire either.
It tracks all the essentials: sleep, heart rate, oxygen, activity. It lasts a long time – you definitely won’t need to charge it every day. It supports various types of workouts, includes GPS, microphone, and speaker – you can answer calls directly from the watch. It syncs consistently with both Android and iPhone.
Key Highlights:
Classic design with a stainless steel case
AMOLED display with good brightness
Long battery life without frequent charging
Specifications:
Display: AMOLED
Water resistance: 5 ATM
Battery: Up to 9 days (typical usage)
21. Samsung Galaxy Watch8 40 mm Graphite
Samsung Galaxy Watch8 – a great option if you want lightweight and compact watches that won’t interfere at the office or gym. The body is slim, almost unnoticeable on the wrist, and the design is neutral, so it goes with anything – from sneakers to a blazer.
The display here is AMOLED – bright and clear, easy to read messages or track activity even under the sun. Inside, it runs Wear OS, so it supports apps, calls, health tracking, sleep, sports – everything you need. It works especially well with Samsung, but it’s stable with other Android smartphones too. Convenient, understandable, without overload.
Key Highlights:
AMOLED display with good readability
Supports apps and calls via Wear OS
Heart rate, sleep, activity, and stress sensors
Specifications:
Processor: Samsung Exynos W1000
Memory: 32 GB
Screen: AMOLED
Protection: IP68, Shock resistance
Battery: 325 mAh
22. Garmin Lily 2 Metallic Lilac
Garmin Lily 2 – these are smartwatches that don’t look smart at all. They resemble regular women’s watches: small, neat, with delicate colors and a thin body. But inside, everything needed for everyday life is built in.
The display is monochrome but very readable. It tracks steps, sleep, heart rate, SpO2. There’s a women’s calendar, you can make payments via NFC, and receive notifications. Suitable for running, swimming, or walking. And the best part – they’re not overloaded. Just stylish and simple watches for everyday use.
Key Highlights:
Visually, regular classic watches
Touchscreen monochrome display under glass
Has NFC for contactless payments
Basic metrics + women’s calendar
Specifications:
Screen: Monochrome
Protection: Gorilla Glass 3
Battery: up to 5 days
23. Apple Watch Series 11 GPS 46mm
Apple Watch Series 11 – these are the same “Apple” watches but slightly thinner, lighter, and with an Always-On display that’s now even brighter. They sit perfectly on the wrist, not distracting either during work or on a walk. And if you’re already in the Apple ecosystem – you’ll get used to them in a minute.
Functionality is at its peak: activity, sleep, heart rate, and even body temperature are tracked. You can make calls, listen to music, pay via Apple Pay. They sync with iPhones without any issues. This option is more for everyday tasks and quick connectivity than for sports, but that’s their strength – everything is convenient and always at hand.
Key Highlights:
Always-On Retina display – everything is visible without touching
Deep integration with iOS
High-level health monitoring
Fast charging and stable performance
Specifications:
Processor: Apple S10
Memory: 64 GB
Screen: OLED
Protection: IP6X, WR50
24. Garmin Vivoactive 5 Orchid
Garmin Vivoactive 5 – an excellent choice for those who regularly train and don’t want to juggle multiple gadgets. The watches are compact, lightweight, with a bright AMOLED display that remains readable even during movement. The sensor works precisely, and they sit comfortably on the wrist – you can wear them all day.
They offer a variety of functions: sleep tracking, heart rate, breathing, energy levels, and plenty of sports modes – from swimming to wheelchair training. Garmin Pay support, notifications, music – all make them convenient not only for sports but also for everyday use.
Key Highlights:
Bright and sensitive AMOLED display
Supports dozens of activities, including adaptive ones
Garmin Pay and music control
Suitable for both sports and daily use
Specifications:
Memory: 4 GB
Screen: AMOLED
Battery: up to 21 days (typical use)
25. Amazfit T-Rex 3 Lava
Amazfit T-Rex 3 – watches for those leading an active lifestyle who don’t like fussing with technology. The body is durable, the design is noticeable, but they sit comfortably on the wrist. You can wear them in the gym, on the trail, on a hike – without worrying that something will break or crack.
The display is bright, saturated, and the controls are intuitive. Calls, music, GPS, health sensors – all in place. They run on Zepp OS, connect to smartphones via Bluetooth. There are plenty of sports modes. The main thing – the battery: if you don’t push them to the max, you might not need to charge them for a couple of weeks. And that’s already a rarity.
Key Highlights:
Shockproof body and water protection
AMOLED display with excellent brightness
Health and activity tracking
Supports calls and music directly from the watch
Specifications:
Memory: 32 GB
Screen: AMOLED
Protection: water resistance 10 ATM, shockproof
Battery: 700 mAh
Conclusion
Choosing smartwatches based on the “price-to-quality” principle isn’t just about finding the “best for your money”. It’s about finding watches that truly solve your tasks, not just hanging on your wrist for decoration.
Some people want to track sleep and health. Others – want to make calls and quickly read messages. And some just don’t want to charge a gadget every day. And that’s all perfectly fine.
This selection doesn’t have the perfect model for all occasions – and that’s its strength. There are options that cover just the essentials, and those that do almost everything. The key is not to overpay for features you won’t even use. Sometimes it’s better to pick simple, reliable watches and use them for years – without surprises and unnecessary fuss.