Getting fit doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune. Fitness trackers have come a long way in the last few years, and you can now find some amazing options under $100 that still offer features like heart-rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and even GPS. I’ve tested or researched dozens of affordable trackers to find the ones that actually deliver solid performance without breaking the bank. Here are my top picks for 2025.
Quick Comparison Table
| Model | Best For | Highlight Feature | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fitbit Inspire 3 | Overall Best | Accurate tracking + reliable app | Check Price on Amazon |
| Xiaomi Mi Band 8 | Battery Life | Up to 2 weeks on one charge | Check Price on Amazon |
| Amazfit Band 7 | Display Quality | Bright AMOLED screen + 120 workout modes | Check Price on Amazon |
| Garmin Vivosmart 5 | Advanced Metrics | Detailed heart-rate and sleep tracking | Check Price on Amazon |
| Letsfit ID205L | Budget Pick | Simple tracking + good battery life | Check Price on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews
1. Fitbit Inspire 3 – Best Overall Fitness Tracker Under $100
The Fitbit Inspire 3 strikes a perfect balance between design, features, and accuracy. I’ve used several Fitbits over the years, and this one feels like a mini version of their premium models. The bright color display and easy-to-navigate app make it perfect for anyone who wants reliable tracking without the bulk.
- Pros: Accurate heart-rate monitoring, comfortable to wear, strong app support, sleep tracking is detailed
- Cons: Screen is small for notifications, needs the app for full stats
2. Xiaomi Mi Band 8 – Best Battery Life
I was impressed by how long this thing lasts. The Mi Band 8 can easily go two weeks on a single charge, even with daily tracking. It’s slim, stylish, and surprisingly durable for the price. The step counter and sleep tracking are accurate, though the heart-rate readings can vary slightly during intense workouts.
- Pros: Excellent battery life, lightweight, vibrant display, easy strap customization
- Cons: App translation isn’t perfect, no built-in GPS
3. Amazfit Band 7 – Best Display & Tracking Features
If you want something that feels more premium without paying premium prices, the Amazfit Band 7 is your best bet. I noticed the AMOLED screen is super bright—even outdoors in sunlight. It tracks over 120 workout modes, SpO2, heart rate, and even stress levels. The Zepp app offers deeper insights than most budget trackers.
- Pros: Beautiful AMOLED display, tons of workout modes, strong app integration, decent battery life
- Cons: No built-in GPS, slightly thicker than Mi Band
4. Garmin Vivosmart 5 – Best for Detailed Health Data
Garmin is known for its accuracy, and the Vivosmart 5 brings that reliability to an affordable level. In my experience, its heart-rate and sleep-tracking metrics are more consistent than most budget competitors. The display isn’t flashy, but the insights you get in the Garmin Connect app are top-notch.
- Pros: Excellent tracking accuracy, great app insights, comfortable fit, reliable sleep and stress tracking
- Cons: Monochrome display, fewer smartwatch-style features
5. Letsfit ID205L – Best True Budget Pick
If you’re just starting your fitness journey and want something simple, the Letsfit ID205L gets the job done. It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of the pricier models, but it tracks steps, sleep, and heart rate accurately enough for casual users. I was surprised by how decent it felt on my wrist considering its low price point.
- Pros: Affordable, decent tracking, good battery life, easy to use
- Cons: Limited features, app feels basic, no advanced metrics
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Fitness Tracker Under $100
When shopping for an affordable fitness tracker, you don’t want to waste money on flashy gimmicks. Here’s what really matters in this price range:
- Accuracy: Step and heart-rate tracking should be consistent. Fitbit and Garmin still lead in reliability.
- Battery Life: Look for 7+ days minimum. Xiaomi and Amazfit do exceptionally well here.
- Display: AMOLED screens are brighter and easier to read in sunlight, but LCD displays save battery.
- App Support: The companion app can make or break the experience. Fitbit and Garmin apps provide the best long-term insights.
- Comfort & Fit: A tracker only works if you actually wear it—make sure it’s light, slim, and has adjustable straps.
- Bonus Features: Look for extras like SpO2 monitoring, stress tracking, or smartphone notifications if those matter to you.
FAQs
Can cheap fitness trackers really be accurate?
Yes, but it depends on the brand. Fitbit and Garmin tend to have the most consistent tracking, while some budget models may overcount steps or miss heart-rate spikes during workouts.
Do these trackers work with iPhones and Android phones?
Absolutely. All the models listed above sync easily via Bluetooth to both iOS and Android. You’ll just need the companion app for setup and data viewing.
Do I need built-in GPS?
Not necessarily. If you run or cycle outdoors often, GPS helps map routes without your phone. But for most daily tracking, connected GPS (using your phone’s location) is perfectly fine.
Which fitness tracker lasts the longest on a charge?
The Xiaomi Mi Band 8 stands out here—it can go nearly two weeks per charge under normal use.
Final Verdict
All five of these trackers offer great value, but if I had to choose one, I’d go with the Fitbit Inspire 3. It’s the most well-rounded option under $100, with accurate tracking, excellent app support, and solid comfort. If long battery life is your top priority, the Xiaomi Mi Band 8 is unbeatable. And for the best display and all-around features, the Amazfit Band 7 delivers the most premium experience for the price.
Bottom line: You don’t need to spend hundreds to stay active and track your progress in 2025—these affordable fitness trackers prove it.
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