Cheapest Running Watch: Budget-Friendly Trackers for Fitness
Note: We have researched 8 running watches for you.
Last updated on 17.05.24 um 11:34
Embarking on a fitness journey doesn't have to burn a hole in your wallet, especially when it comes to tracking your progress. The market is teeming with affordable options that can help you keep an eye on your running metrics without compromising on quality.
In this roundup, we've scoured the landscape to find the best value-packed timepieces that cater to both the casual jogger and the serious sprinter. These selections promise to combine functionality with frugality, ensuring every step you take is measured accurately while keeping your finances in check.
In this roundup, we've scoured the landscape to find the best value-packed timepieces that cater to both the casual jogger and the serious sprinter. These selections promise to combine functionality with frugality, ensuring every step you take is measured accurately while keeping your finances in check.
To simplify the price comparison, we determine the prices for the individual articles on Amazon, Ebay and other shops and link the offers via partner links where applicable. This means that we receive a commission if you buy something that we recommend - the price does not change for you.
Pictured: GRV Pedometer Watch No Bluetooth No App
What to Look for in Cheapest Running Watches
Important criteria
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Durability
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Battery life
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GPS accuracy
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Water resistance
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Comfort and fit
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Ease of use
1.) Accuracy and GPS
A crucial aspect to consider when selecting the cheapest running watch is the accuracy of the time, pace, and distance measurements. Most running watches use GPS to track these metrics, but not all GPS is created equal. Look for a watch with a strong and reliable GPS signal to ensure that your running data is precise. Do not overlook how quickly the watch acquires a GPS signal; a watch that takes too long to lock onto a signal can be frustrating for regular use.
2.) Battery Life
Battery life is paramount when selecting a running watch, especially if you plan on using it for longer runs or even for full marathons. You want a watch that can last the entirety of your run without dying. Consider how often you want to charge your watch—a good running watch should at least last several days with regular use and should be able to sustain around 5 to 6 hours of continuous GPS tracking.
Pictured: GRV Pedometer Watch No Bluetooth No App
3.) Features and Functionality
Examine the features offered by the cheapest running watches and decide which are must-haves for your training. Basic features usually include a stopwatch, lap functions, and a heart rate monitor. Some watches also offer advanced features like customized workouts, interval training, or connectivity with other devices. Be clear about what features you need and what you can compromise on to fit your budget.
4.) Comfort and Durability
Since you will be wearing the watch while active, comfort should not be overlooked. The watch should have a comfortable band and be light enough not to impede your movement. Durability is also important; the watch should be able to withstand the elements and the wear and tear from regular use. Water resistance is a value-added feature that can be beneficial if you run in various weather conditions or want to cross-train with swimming.
The Cheapest Running Watches of our Choice
Our Pick
GRV Pedometer Watch No Bluetooth No App
Type/Color: Black
Properties
- No Bluetooth required, works independently without App
- Accurately records steps, calories, distance, and sleep time
- Easy setup with touch button operation
- Long battery life, charges via built-in USB in 2-3 hours, lasts up to 7 days
- Great gift for elderly and children, simple and comfortable
2
Garmin Forerunner 55
Type/Color: Aqua
Size: One Size
Properties
- Monitors heart rate at the wrist
- Uses GPS to track running
- Battery life: up to 2 weeks
- PacePro feature for race day strategy
- Helpful training tools for better performance
- Built-in activity profiles for various activities
- Advanced wellness features for body tracking
- Customize watch with free app
- Suggested workouts based on training history
In other categories
- Rank 9 of 13 in Cheapest Garmin Watch
3
Sunroad Smartwatch GPS sportwatch Touchscreen Altimeter
Type/Color: black
Properties
- GPS and Glonass location for precise tracking
- 10 groups GPS tracker for different activities
- Customizable watch face and bright touchscreen display
- Professional sports analysis for various activities
- Different sports modes available for diverse workouts
- Advanced sports data monitoring and recording capabilities
- Comprehensive health monitoring including sleep and heart rate
- Convenient features like selfie remote control and music control
- Multilingual support and long-lasting battery life
- Waterproof design with Bluetooth and USB charging
$ 89.90 *
View
on Amazon
4
OCTANDRA Move VeryFitPro Smart Watch HR
Model: ID205L
Type/Color: Green
Properties
- Power Your Intention with Octandra Move Fitness Watch
- Stay Active with Very Fit Pro app
- All Day Fitness Tracker Watch with multiple functions
- Advanced Sleep Tracker for improved sleep analysis
- Multi Sports Modes for better sport understanding
- Designed with 1.3-inch TFT LCD color touch screen
- IP68 Waterproof Watch for durability
- Outstanding 8-10 days Battery Life
- Never miss calls, texts, and social app notifications
- Note: Not a medical device; results for reference
5
EZON GPS Running Watch with Speed
Model: T031A01
Type/Color: black
Properties
- GPS running watch improves running performance
- Calculates running pace and distance automatically
- LED backlight for full visibility in dark conditions
- Battery life up to 3 months in standby mode
- Water resistant to 50m, suitable for swimming
7
GARMIN 010-02156-00 Forerunner 45s
Type/Color: White
Size: 39MM
Properties
- GPS running watch with Garmin Coach training plan support
- Supports GPS, fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring, sleep monitoring, and music playback
- Connectivity technology: GPS, wireless comm standard: Bluetooth
- Smaller-sized easy-to-use running watch estimates heart rate at the wrist
- Features GPS to track pace, distance, intervals, and more
- Works with free Garmin Coach Adaptive training plans
- Connected features include smart notifications and automatic uploads to Garmin Connect
- Live tracking and music controls for paired smartphone
- Safety and tracking features include incident detection
- Sports apps for running, cycling, indoor track, treadmill, elliptical, cardio, yoga, and more
- Battery life: up to 7 days in smartwatch mode; 14 hours in GPS mode
- Included Components: Forerunner 45S, charging cable, documentation
In other categories
- Rank 1 of 13 in Cheapest Garmin Watch
8
AiMoonsa Running Watch
Type/Color: White
Properties
- Built-in GPS for real-time sports data
- Multifunctional with various smartwatch features
- Integrated Alexa voice assistant for convenience
- Personalized settings for customized experience
- Useful app with health management and workout planning
- Excellent battery life and good compatibility
- Reliable customer service and support
$ 79.98 *
View
on Amazon
* All prices incl. VAT, plus shipping if applicable. Prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. The selection of products was made independently of the manufacturer and without any claim to completeness. All links to products are external partner links through which we may receive compensation. All information without guarantee.
Top Picks for Budget-Friendly Running Watches
Beginner Runners
Discover an array of affordable watches perfect for those new to running. Our selections offer basic functionality to track your progress without overwhelming you with features.
Tech-Savvy Joggers
Browse budget-friendly watches with the latest tech features. Ideal for joggers who love to stay connected and monitor their stats with smart integration.
Long-Distance Athletes
Find running watches that offer long battery life and durability. Perfect for marathon trainers or ultra-runners who need reliability without breaking the bank.
Casual Weekend Runners
Look for inexpensive watches that blend functionality with ease of use. Suitable for weekend runners who want the convenience of tracking without the fuss.
Questions You Might Ask
Key features to look for in a running watch include GPS tracking for distance and pace, heart rate monitoring, battery life suited for your training routine, water resistance for durability in different weather conditions, and any additional metrics that cater to your specific training needs, such as cadence, altitude, or VO2 max estimates. Compatibility with third-party apps for training analysis can also be beneficial.
GPS accuracy is very important in a running watch as it directly impacts the accuracy of distance and pace data. This information is crucial for runners looking to monitor their performance and progress. High-quality GPS can also provide more detailed maps of your running routes for post-run analysis.
While not essential, a heart rate monitor can be very useful for runners who are interested in tracking their cardiovascular fitness or who train using heart rate zones. It allows for more precise training intensity control and can provide valuable insights into your overall health and fitness level.
It depends on your preference and lifestyle. If you want to stay connected and receive notifications, control music, or use contactless payment while on the run, then a running watch with smartwatch features might be worth the investment. However, if these features are not important to you, a basic running watch may suffice and save you money.
To decide between different running watch brands, consider factors such as the brand's reputation for quality and accuracy, the user interface and ease of use, the availability of customer support, the compatibility with other devices and apps, and the price point relative to your budget and the features offered. Reading reviews and testing watches in-store when possible can help inform your decision.
Currently Active Poll
How to Choose the Best Budget Running Watch
Our Pick: GRV Pedometer Watch No Bluetooth No App
Are you an avid runner on a budget, looking for the perfect companion to track your progress without breaking the bank? You've come to the right place! This guide will walk you through the essential features and tips to consider when picking out the best inexpensive running watch that meets your needs. Say goodbye to buyer's remorse and hello to informed purchasing as we help you find a watch that balances functionality and affordability.
Understanding Essential Features
When it comes to running watches, essential features can greatly impact performance and usability. Look for a reliable stopwatch and timer, which are crucial for tracking your run durations. GPS functionality is a valuable addition for mapping your runs and monitoring pacing, though not all budget watches may include this.
Heart rate monitoring is another significant feature to consider. While once reserved for higher-end models, many affordable running watches now offer heart-rate tracking, which can help you optimize your training intensity. Lastly, battery life matters; ensure your watch can last through your longest runs so you're not left hanging mid-route.
Prioritizing Your Needs
Take a moment to prioritize what's most important to you in a running watch. Is it the accuracy of the tracking, the battery life, or perhaps the comfort of the band on your wrist? Remember, the cheapest option may cut costs by sacrificing features that could be critical to your training.
Think about whether you'll be using the watch strictly for running or if you'll want cross-training features like swimming or cycling modes. Water resistance may not be essential for every runner, but it could be a deal-maker if you train in all weather conditions or enjoy triathlons.
Balancing Cost and Quality
The cheapest running watch may be tempting but take into account the build quality and brand reputation. A watch that falls apart after a few uses is no bargain. Look for well-reviewed models from reputable brands that have a history of producing durable sports watches.
It's also wise to consider the warranty and customer service provided by the manufacturer. A good warranty can save you money in the long run if anything goes wrong. Check online reviews and forums for users' after-sales service experiences with the brand.
Where to Find Deals
The best deals on running watches often come from shopping during sales, such as Black Friday or after Christmas, when retailers are clearing out old stock. Online marketplaces might offer refurbished units at a significant discount, which could be an option if you're comfortable with a pre-owned item.
Signing up for newsletters from running and sports gear websites can also alert you to flash sales or clearance events. It's a useful strategy to snag that budget-friendly watch just when the price dips.
Hands-on Reviews and Recommendations from Discussion-Boards
In our search to provide you with valuable information regarding the most affordable running watches, we've carefully curated a list of resources we find trustworthy. This collection consists of test reports and expert forum recommendations, which are organized into four distinct categories for your convenience: reviews, forum posts, Reddit discussions, and videos. The links we've chosen represent what we believe to be the most informative and useful content on the topic.
Oct 31, 2023 — Best Budget Smartwatches Under $100 ; LetsFit ID205L · $47 at Walmart ; Amazfit Bip S · $65 at Walmart ; NDur Smartwatch (Update: Out of stock) · $37...
www.letsrun.com
Campmor has great prices and service. My favorite watch is the Timex Ironman 30 lap, which you can get for less than $30. The Timex I control ...
Refurbished 245 or Vivoactive 4 are both around 150.
Forerunner 35 has all 3 you need. Forerunner 45 is newer and is $30 more.
It just depends on what you're interested in tracking.. I love my Garmin Instinct Solar (about 400 USD) because it works for me. GPS is great, ...
I'd go with the cheapest garmin forerunner or coros. Upvote 1
Best Cheap Running Watches 2023: Watch This Before Buying!
Ola Amigo, We Have The Best Cheap Running Watches Fit For You Here! ➟ Garmin Forerunner 55
