Looking for your first running watch? These are the budget fitness bands and watches we'd recommend to get you on the right track

Smart, simple trackers that won't break the bank

by · TechRadar

Features By Ruth Hamilton published 9 May 2026

(Image credit: Future)

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My running pace isn't going to set the race world alight. And while I'm a big proponent of taking things at your own speed, I would like to improve my stats just a smidge — and a fitness tracker is how I'm going to do that. So far, I've either not tracked my runs at all, or used a phone-based app to gather information that I can look at after I've finished. Some on-wrist information, I think, would help me become more aware of my progress, and ultimately, how to improve it.

So I'm in the market for a wearable. Today's best fitness trackers and smart watches are crammed with tech and data, but I don't need something particularly advanced, and I also don't want to splash too much cash. If you're in a similar position to me, I've gathered some top options below. These are highest-rated, budget running trackers we've tested at TechRadar, any of which would fit the bill perfectly.

In the affordable smartwatch arena, the standout is the Amazfit Active 2, which is bafflingly cheap and earned a perfect five stars in our review. Of the fitness bands we've tested, the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 is the shining star (provided you don't live in the US or have an iPhone), or the efficient and beginner-friendly FitBit Inspire 3.

Read on for more options — and hit the View Details button to find out more information about each one.

On your marks...

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