In today's digital age, smartwatches have become more than just timepieces—they are personal assistants, fitness trackers, and style statements all rolled into one. Fortunately, you do not need to break the bank to enjoy the convenience and functionality of a smartwatch. Several brands offer smartwatches priced under Rs. 5,000, packed with features that cater to the modern man's needs. From tracking your workouts to receiving notifications on the go, these budget-friendly smartwatches have a lot to offer without burning a hole in your pocket.
Best smartwatches under Rs. 5,000
1. One Plus Nord Watch
The OnePlus Nord Watch boasts a sleek design at a budget-friendly price. Its key features include a large 1.78-inch AMOLED display with a smooth 60Hz refresh rate for vibrant visuals. It weighs a mere 53 grams, ensuring comfortable all-day wear. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the 105 workout modes and automatic workout detection. It tracks SpO2, heart rate, stress, and even provides women's health tracking. The impressive 10-day battery life eliminates frequent charging worries. But does it have everything? Notably absent is Bluetooth calling, a feature found in some competitors. This might be a deal breaker for some. Overall, the OnePlus Nord Watch offers a stylish design, long battery life, and ample fitness features at an attractive price. However, the lack of Bluetooth calling might leave some users wanting more.
2. Realme Smartwatch 2 Pro
The realme Smartwatch 2 Pro brings impressive features to budget-conscious fitness enthusiasts. Its large 1.75-inch HD display shines brightly, even outdoors, showcasing vital stats and notifications clearly. Boasting a massive 390mAh battery, the Smartwatch 2 Pro promises up to 14 days of usage. Stay connected on the move with built-in Bluetooth calling, eliminating the need to pull out your phone for quick calls. It also has 90+ sports modes, monitors your heart rate and SpO2 levels, and provides sleep analysis for a complete picture of your well-being. With GPS tracking and various watch faces, it is a stylish and functional companion for your active lifestyle.
3. Redmi Watch 3 Active
The Redmi Watch 3 punches above its weight, offering impressive features at a competitive price. Its 1.83-inch LCD display delivers clear visuals, while its lightweight (42g) design ensures wrist comfort. Fitness enthusiasts are well served with over 100+ workout modes, and comprehensive health tracking (heart rate, SpO2, sleep). The real kicker? Built-in Bluetooth calling lets you take and answer calls directly from your wrist, a rare feature in the sub Rs. 5,000 price range. The icing on the cake? A whopping 12-day battery life keeps you connected without constant charging woes. However, some might find the slightly smaller display and lack of advanced smart features like app ecosystem integration drawbacks. Overall, the Redmi Watch 3 delivers exceptional value with its feature-rich package, long battery life, and Bluetooth calling, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious smartwatch seekers.
4. Noise Colourfit Pro 5
The Noise Colourfit Pro 5 offers sleek aesthetics and fitness features at a pocket-friendly price. Its 1.96-inch touchscreen display, while not the largest, delivers decent visuals. Weighing just 45g, it sits comfortably on your wrist throughout the day. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the 100+ sports modes, including automatic workout detection. Health tracking covers the basics - heart rate, SpO2, and sleep monitoring. However, Bluetooth calling is absent, potentially a deal breaker for some. The 10-day battery life helps you stay connected longer. While app integration might be limited, the overall value proposition is solid. Looking for a stylish and budget-friendly fitness companion? The Noise Colourfit Pro 5 is worth considering but prioritise other options if Bluetooth calling is essential.
5. Fire-Boltt Invincible Plus
The Fire-Boltt Invincible Plus goes for "luxe" on a budget, boasting a large 1.43" AMOLED display for crisp visuals. Fitness and health enthusiasts are served with 300+ sports modes, auto-recognition, and tracking for heart rate, SpO2, and sleep. The star feature? Built-in Bluetooth calling lets you take calls directly from your wrist. A 7-day battery life is not groundbreaking, but decent for an AMOLED display. Other features include a full metal body, voice assistant, offline music and more. Ultimately, the Invincible Plus offers premium features at a budget price.
Top features to look for
Beyond brand names, focus on features that suit your lifestyle. Prioritise features like:
- Fitness Tracking: If you are active, features like heart rate monitoring, step counting, sleep tracking, and multi-sport modes are crucial.
- Notifications: Stay connected with call and message alerts, app notifications, and even email previews.
- Battery Life: Aim for at least 2-3 days of battery life to avoid frequent charging hassles.
- GPS: Built-in GPS is beneficial for tracking outdoor activities accurately.
How to choose the right smartwatch
Consider your needs and preferences:
- Lifestyle: Are you a fitness enthusiast, fashion-conscious, or a tech-savvy professional? Choose a watch that complements your lifestyle.
- Operating System: Most budget watches use proprietary apps; if ecosystem integration is important, consider brands like realme or Amazfit.
- Comfort and Design: Opt for a watch that fits your wrist size and complements your style. Lightweight and comfortable designs are key.
- Durability: Look for scratch-resistant displays and strong materials for everyday wear and tear.
Compatibility with your phone
Most smartwatches under Rs. 5,000 will be compatible with both Android and iOS phones. However, certain features might be limited depending on the phone's operating system. Check compatibility details before purchasing to avoid disappointment.
Power and performance: battery life and charging time
Battery life varies significantly across models. Aim for at least 5-7 days, as daily charging can be cumbersome. Faster charging speeds are also beneficial, reducing charge time while ensuring you are never disconnected.
Style and substance: design and build quality
Do not compromise on aesthetics! Look for watches with premium materials like metal or ceramic casings and comfortable straps. Choose a display that suits your preference, whether vibrant AMOLED or classic LCD. Remember, this watch will be an everyday accessory, so choose one that reflects your style.
Waterproof wonders: taking the plunge with water resistance
Water resistance ratings are crucial. Opt for watches rated at least 5 ATM (50 meters) for worry-free use during workouts, showers, or even swimming. Remember, water resistance does not guarantee protection against hot water or saltwater, so check the specifications carefully.
Choosing the right smartwatch: final thoughts
The world of budget-friendly smartwatches for men is exciting and diverse. By understanding your needs, prioritising features, and considering compatibility, design, and performance, you can find the perfect timepiece to elevate your lifestyle. So, explore, compare, and choose the smartwatch that resonates with you. Remember, the perfect watch is the one that complements your daily life and reflects your unique style.
