A smart watch tracks your health, notifications and workouts — but between €40 models and premium watches costing over €800, paying the right price mostly depends on your phone and how you use it. Here is our 2026 buying guide to choosing the best smart watch without overpaying.

How to choose the right smart watch

Before comparing prices, check these criteria — compatibility is the first filter:

  • Compatibility: the Apple Watch only works with an iPhone; some Galaxy Watch features are optimised for Samsung. Garmin, Huawei and Amazfit watches are cross-platform.
  • Health sensors: heart rate, SpO2, sleep tracking, ECG on advanced models.
  • GPS: essential for precisely tracking running, cycling or hiking without your phone.
  • Battery life: from 1 day (Wear OS/Apple watches) to several weeks (Garmin, Amazfit). A criterion that changes everything day to day.
  • The screen and build quality: bright AMOLED, water resistance and tough glass for sport.
Picksly tip: the most expensive watch isn't the right one if it doesn't pair well with your phone. Always start with compatibility, then battery life based on your use.

Our selection by profile

Budget profile: the best under €80

For activity tracking and notifications, models like the Amazfit Bip/GTS or the Xiaomi Smart Band/Watch offer several weeks of battery life and the essential sensors. Refurbished mid-range watches can also be an excellent deal.

Smart profile: the best value for money

The €150–300 range brings GPS, complete health sensors and a nice screen. The Apple Watch SE (for iPhone), the Samsung Galaxy Watch FE/standard or the entry-level Amazfit Active/Garmin Forerunner illustrate this segment well.

Premium profile: the best quality, no compromise

Reference-level health sensors (ECG, temperature), multi-band GPS and a high-end finish: the Apple Watch Ultra, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra or the Garmin Fenix/Epix lead the pack. Reserved for demanding athletes and intensive use.

How to pay the right price

Smart watches are regularly discounted, especially when a new generation launches. Rather than comparing manually, let Picksly find the most relevant alternative for your profile, at the current real price and factoring in refurbished options when relevant.

FAQ

What is the best cheap smart watch?

Under €80, the Amazfit Bip/GTS and Xiaomi Smart Band/Watch offer the best value for money, with great battery life and the essential health sensors.

Does an Apple Watch work with Android?

No, the Apple Watch is reserved for the iPhone. On Android, Samsung Galaxy Watch, Garmin, Amazfit or Wear OS watches are the best options.

Should you prioritise battery life or features?

It depends on your use: Apple and Wear OS watches are very complete but need charging almost daily, while Garmin and Amazfit last for weeks with excellent sports tracking.

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