How to choose the perfect smartwatch for under €300

Choosing the right smartwatch when your budget is under €300 isn't easy. The market is full of impressive specifications, sensors galore, and promises of endless battery life, but not everything is right for every user. Here you'll find a complete guide, with specific models and clear criteria, so you can leave with the watch that truly suits you and not one you'll leave in a drawer after two weeks. Because yes, there are Lots to find for under €300.

To refine our analysis, we've integrated the best guides and recommendations that are most popular on search engines, comparing real-world features, battery life, compatibility, and price. We've also included references to watches that exceed this price point because they often go on sale or serve as a useful benchmark for understanding features. You'll find everything from rugged options like the Samsung Galaxy Watch7 or Huawei Watch GT5 to sporty choices like the Garmin Forerunner 255 Music or Amazfit Cheetah Pro, as well as alternatives with excellent battery life like the OnePlus Watch 2 or the Huawei GT series. All with clear explanations and Practical tips for getting it right the first time. Let's go with this guide on How to choose the perfect smartwatch for you for less than €300. 

How to choose the right smartwatch: key points before buying

First: decide if you need a watch or if an activity tracker will suffice. Fitness trackers are usually thinner, simpler, and cheaper, but a smartwatch offers apps, payments, music and audio sharing, calls, and a more user-friendly screen. From there, keep these factors in mind because they significantly impact the user experience and, above all, your satisfaction in the medium term.

• Clock operating systemWear OS (Samsung, Ticwatch, OnePlus) offers an app store and excellent Android integration; watchOS (Apple) is the go-to for iPhone; HarmonyOS (Huawei) and Zepp OS (Amazfit) prioritize health and battery life with more closed ecosystems. The interface, performance, and available apps depend on this, so choose the system that works best with your phone and your daily needs.
• Real compatibilityIt's not just "pair and go." With an iPhone, you get more out of an Apple Watch. With Android, you're better off with Wear OS or open platforms like Amazfit. Some watches, like the latest Huawei models, work with both Android and iOS, but certain features are limited outside their ecosystem. Check what you lose or gain with your current phone and make sure it's updated to avoid limiting key features like payments or complete notifications.
• ScreenThe screen is the heart of everything. Look for good resolution, high brightness for outdoor use (1.000–2.000 nits makes a difference), and sizes between 40 and 44 mm for comfort and readability. AMOLED/OLED panels offer true blacks and better contrast; if they include an Always On Display, even better. Beware of cheap models with screens that are only moderately bright: you'll notice the difference in direct sunlight. the difference.
• Design, size and materialsMore reading surface isn't always better if the watch is too big. Look for small and large versions (usually around 40–44 mm) and make sure it allows for interchangeable straps. Sapphire crystals or Gorilla Glass-type protection are better suited to withstand daily wear and tear, and water resistance (5 ATM or higher) gives you peace of mind in the pool and shower. A comfortable bezel or a side-mounted crown makes navigation easier. agile and precise.
• Mobile independenceIf you want calls and data without carrying your phone, look for eSIM/LTE. Many watches already integrate it in specific versions, so you can use the same number and data as your smartphone. It's key for outdoor sports, training, or if you prefer to travel light with offline music and NFC payments, without carrying your phone. everywhere.
• NFC paymentsIt's incredibly convenient for urban life. There are affordable contactless payment options, but check compatibility with your bank and platform (Google Wallet, Apple Pay, Garmin Pay, Huawei Wallet, etc.). It's one of those features that doesn't inflate the price and that you'll use daily if you get used to paying with contactless. la muneca.
• Health and sportAll of them measure steps, heart rate, and sleep, but the most comprehensive also include ECG, body composition analysis (BIA), temperature, stress, SpO2, VO2 max, and advanced training metrics. If you're interested in progressing, look for high-precision GPS (even dual-band) and training load tools. guided plans.
• AutonomyBattery life varies considerably. Some watches last a couple of days, while others stretch to two weeks. The more demanding models with apps and always-on displays consume more power. Find a balance that matches your usage: "up to 14 days" might translate to a week with everything active. Fast charging is a bonus: 45% in half an hour. save a day.
• PriceThere's a wide range of quality watches from €50 to €400. For under €300, you can find excellent displays, payment options, accurate GPS, and decent health tracking. If a particular model is out of your price range, keep an eye out for deals: watches priced at €329 or €429 occasionally drop below that price point, offering excellent opportunities. of gold.

Best smartwatches for under €300 (or that usually drop below that price)

This is the sweet spot for most. Here you'll find watches with a good balance between screen, sensors, apps, and battery life. Many of them have been praised by tech publications and offer remarkable value for money, especially when you're hunting. occasional sales.

Samsung galaxy watch7 (often priced at €219): Wear OS, high performance, and a well-rounded health ecosystem. It features a 1,5″ Super AMOLED display with 480 x 480 px resolution, a versatile design, and over 100 sport modes. It integrates a BioActive sensor, ECG, and body composition analysis (BIA). Various guides consider it a safe bet and even "the most recommended" for its price. Furthermore, it is available in two sizes (40 and 44 mm), and both versions boast sapphire crystal and a dedicated mode. Always On.

Huawei Watch GT5 (approx. €179): 1,43″ AMOLED (466 x 466), IP68 and 5 ATM water resistance, with sensors for temperature, stress, sleep, gyroscope, and accelerometer. It runs HarmonyOS 5 and its battery can last up to 14 days. It's ideal if you prioritize battery life, health tracking, and an elegant style without sacrificing GPS or a bright screen.

Apple WatchSE (Starting at €229): Aluminum, Retina LTPO OLED display up to 1.000 nits, and S8 chip with watchOS. It excels in accident and fall detection, SOS, NFC payments, and a seamless iPhone experience. Official battery life of up to 18 hours (without fast charging), sufficient for everyday use. It's the gateway to the Apple ecosystem without breaking the bank. reliable health functions.

Garmin Forerunner 255 (Under €300 on sale): High-precision GPS, quality heart rate sensor, and advanced performance metrics (VO2 max, training load). It allows you to store and play music without a phone, and its screen is easy to see in sunlight. It's perfect for runners and triathletes who value reliable data and a watch designed for training. real.

Amazfit Cheetah Pro (usually priced under €300): easy-to-read HD AMOLED screen, offline maps and routes, 5 ATM water resistance, and up to 14 days of battery life. Its GPS supports up to six satellite positioning systems, and Zepp Coach uses AI to adapt running plans. With 150 sport modes (including triathlon), it's a beast for those who demand precision and lightness.

Fitbit Versa 4 (from €149): Square format, AMOLED screen with Always On, heart rate sensor and others (skin temperature, ambient light, gyroscope), speaker and microphone for calls, and almost a week of battery life. Focused on well-being, sleep, and daily activity, it's a simple and practical option at a good price. constant monitoring.

Amazfit Bip 6 (around €71,50): Large 1,97″ AMOLED display, BioTracker PPG sensor, anti-fingerprint coating, Zepp OS with over 140 modes, Bluetooth calling, and up to 14 days of battery life. For the price, it offers a lot: notifications, fitness tracking, and long battery life without complicating your life or your phone. pocket.

Polar Ignite 3 (approx. €213): 1,28″ AMOLED (416 x 416), WR30, and sensors to measure speed, heart rate, and sleep with SleepWise, which determines the best time to train. It features dual-frequency GPS, music playback, and voice control. Personalized coaching and a clear focus on rest and performance.

Huawei WatchFit 4 (around €139): Stylish rectangular design with a 1,82″ AMOLED display, rotating bezel, and up to 2.000 nits of brightness. It integrates TrueSense for heart rate, SpO2, TruSleep, and numerous workout modes. It features a proprietary system without third-party apps, Bluetooth, GPS, and up to 10 days of battery life. Lightweight, comfortable, and surprisingly... catalogue for its price.

Models above €300 (or close to that price) to watch out for on sale

Sometimes it's worth stretching your budget or waiting for a sale. Some higher-end watches set the standard for experience or include features that might be worth it for you. If you find them on sale, they could fit within your budget and offer a significant upgrade. very notable.

Samsung galaxy watch8 (RRP from €329): Some guides list two configurations (1,47″ 480 x 480 px and another 1,3″ 396 x 396 px) with sapphire crystal, 32 GB of storage, GPS, and Bluetooth 5.3. Running Wear OS 6, it debuts the Exynos W1000 (5 cores, 3 nm) and enhances AI: improved Energy Score, sleep and cycle analysis, health alerts for abnormal metrics, and fast charging (approximately 45% in 30 minutes). Battery life can reach up to 38 hours, and it's the brand's first smartwatch with the Gemini assistant in some versions, further strengthening its capabilities. the smart experience.

Samsung galaxy watch6Large circular screen with a bezel for easy navigation, very high definition, and adaptive brightness. Up to 4 days of use under normal conditions and the ability to run multiple apps smoothly. A perfect option for those who prioritize screen and comfort.

Samsung Galaxy Watch UltraDesigned for adventurers, with a 1,5″ screen (3.000 nits), a 47mm case, and weighing just 60 grams. Powered by an Exynos W1000 processor, it boasts 2GB of RAM, 32GB of storage, and a 590mAh battery for over two days of use. It offers 10 ATM water resistance and top-notch sensors. Its reviews stand out with a 4,7/5 rating and extremely high satisfaction rates. A tank for intense activities and outdoor.

OnePlus Watch 2Up to 100 hours of battery life (about 5 days) with smart mode, stainless steel and sapphire crystal, 1,43″ AMOLED display, and Wear OS with Google Assistant. It's elegant, durable, and long-lasting; if you value battery life and design, this is the perfect choice. holder.

Ticwatch Pro 5The Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 processor offers 3-4 days of battery life, a very bright AMOLED display, and a low-power secondary display underneath to extend battery life. It includes a compass, over 100 sports modes, NFC, and an LTE version for SIM cards. Be aware that Wear OS updates on this brand can sometimes be slow, but the hardware is excellent and the price is generally reasonable. fit well.

Google PixelWatch 2Precise sensors with AI features for heart rate, temperature, and stress, along with device backup, safety modes, and guided workouts. It does experience occasional charging and connectivity issues, so it's crucial to review your usage and assess whether its performance is worthwhile. advanced functions.

Huawei Watch GT 3Up to two weeks of battery life, excellent accuracy in steps, calories, and biometric metrics; 1,43″ AMOLED display with side crown, 100 workout types, and calls. If you prioritize battery life and a “health + fitness” approach without sacrificing classic aesthetics, this is a great candidate.

Apple Watch Series 10 (Top of the line): Retina LTPO OLED display up to 2.000 nits, S10 chip with U2 for ultra-wideband, SpO2, ECG, accident detection, and temperature sensor. Up to 36 hours of battery life in low-power mode and fast charging. Expensive, yes, but it represents the best iPhone experience alongside the Ultra, thanks to its integration total with iOS.

Watches with calls, LTE and music without a mobile phone

If you want true phone independence, check out these options with eSIM or LTE. Whether you're training, traveling, or simply prefer to travel light, being able to make calls, reply to messages, and access lists offline makes all the difference. user experience.

• HUAWEI Watch 3 ActiveIt allows you to activate an eSIM with the same number as your smartphone and use voice and data plans. Compatible with MeeTime for transferring calls to smart displays. You can download up to 6 GB of music, it has a 1,43″ round screen, and it can last up to 14 days on battery life. Excellent for those who prioritize battery life and connectivity.
• Garmin Forerunner 255Playlist storage and mobile-free playback, with top-tier training metrics for runners. If data and music are your priorities, it's hard to find a better balance. €300 on offer.
• Ticwatch Pro 5 LTE (depending on configuration): mobile connectivity, over 3 days of battery life, and plenty of power for apps and notifications. If you also want NFC payments and a screen visible in bright sunlight, its dual-panel display is a great option. clear advantage.
• Apple Watch SE and Series 9 LTEThe mobile versions of the SE and Series 9 free you from your iPhone for errands and other errands. The Series 9 adds a temperature sensor and Apple's premium experience. In reviews, the Series 9 LTE ​​shines with scores close to 4,8/5 for its accuracy and comfort.

Screens, sensors and durability: what changes everyday life

In practice, the screen and sensors define the perceived quality. Samsung boasts Super AMOLED panels with ultra-high definition and adaptive brightness; the Galaxy Watch7 has a 1,5″ screen with 480 x 480 px resolution, sapphire crystal, and Always On Display; the Watch8's brightness can reach very high levels, and AI refines recommendations such as the energy score. The Watch Ultra's 3.000 nits of brightness allow for clear visibility in bright sunlight, and the bezel makes navigating the interface easier. more control.

In terms of sensors, the range extends from heart rate and SpO2 to advanced training metrics (VO2 max, load, BIA, ECG, temperature, and stress). Brands like Garmin have been refining data for athletes for years, while Google and Samsung are pushing the boundaries of smart technology with AI and integrated coachingHuawei and Amazfit stand out in battery life without sacrificing comprehensive health analysis, with sleep tracking, personalized plans and precision GPS (including dual-band and up to six constellations in the case of the Cheetah Pro).

Water resistance matters: 5 ATM is a solid standard for swimming and showering, and some models reach 10 ATM. Materials like sapphire crystal, stainless steel finishes, or robust frames (like those on the OnePlus Watch 2 or certain Samsung models) make a difference when it comes to protection against bumps and scratches. If you're into tough sports or mountaineering, look for 10 ATM and hard glass; if you use it in the office and for urban workouts, 5 ATM and good glass will suffice. loft.

Real autonomy: who can endure the most

If you're used to watches that last a week, you'll find it hard to get used to charging them daily. There's a wide range of options: the Watch7 easily lasts a day and a half to two days with varied use, while the Watch8 lasts around 38 hours and offers significantly improved fast charging (approximately 45% in 30 minutes). The Ticwatch Pro 5, with its secondary display, extends battery life without sacrificing performance. The Huawei GT 3/GT5 and Amazfit Cheetah Pro offer days and days of use, and the OnePlus Watch 2 boasts up to 100 hours in smartwatch mode. If battery life is your priority, these watch families will give you plenty of options. a lot of tranquility.

User profiles and quick recommendations

For Android with a focus on appsThe Samsung Galaxy Watch7 is a safe bet for what it offers and its usual sale price. If you're looking for the latest in AI, you'll love the Watch8, and if you want power and durability, the Watch Ultra is a clear upgrade (although it's pricey unless you find a great deal).

For iphone: Find out which Apple Watch you should buy — Apple Watch SE if you're looking to spend little and have the essential Apple experience (health, payments, SOS, flawless notifications). If you can upgrade, the Series 9 LTE ​​is the ideal balance between advanced features and convenience, and the Series 10 is the option for those who want the latest with brightness, sensors, and charging. improved.

For pure athletesThe Garmin Forerunner 255 Music and Amazfit Cheetah Pro excel in data and GPS. If you're into triathlons, the Cheetah Pro is incredibly versatile; if you're into interval training, VO2 max testing, and planning, the Forerunner 255 Music provides everything you need, including music without your phone.

For long battery lifeThe Huawei Watch GT5/GT3, OnePlus Watch 2, and Amazfit Bip 6 are great allies. Fewer recharges, more real-world use, without sacrificing screen and health tracking. If you want the best of both worlds, the Ticwatch Pro 5 with its dual screen is a great option. brilliant.

For a tight budgetThe Amazfit Bip 6, Huawei Watch Fit 4, and Fitbit Versa 4 adequately cover wellness, fitness, and notifications, all for under €150–€200. You won't have all the Wear OS apps, but you'll gain in simplicity and... autonomy.

Notes, reviews, and what the experts say

In store and media reviews, the models most frequently recommended for their balance are the Galaxy Watch7 (often seen as "the perfect buy" for its price and features), the Apple Watch SE (the most sensible way to enter the ecosystem), and the Garmin Forerunner 255 Music (if you're serious about training). In ratings, you'll see references like 4/5 on Amazon for the Watch7 or 4,7/5 for the Watch Ultra, and outstanding scores for the Apple Watch Series 9 LTE ​​(close to 4,8/5). This is a good indicator of... real experience.

It's also worth noting that some websites specify they contain affiliate links and may receive a commission on purchases, although they make it clear that editorial decisions are independent. This is a widespread practice in the industry and doesn't necessarily bias the selection if it's explained clearly. transparency.

For added context, specialized journalists like Rafael Galán, who has been covering tablets, smartwatches, mobile phones, audio, and all kinds of gadgets since 2018 (and has a background in journalism and previous experience in business and innovation journalism), contribute guides and comparisons focusing on value for money and monitoring the market for deals. His work in mainstream media and his participation in AI initiatives for major publishing groups reinforce an up-to-date view of the sector, without losing the personal touch of someone who enjoys the geek universe, from Marvel and DC to board games or stage magic.

Quick fact sheets of featured models

• Xiaomi (steel frame and W5+ Gen 1)Smartwatch with a steel chassis, high-resistance glass, Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 processor, 1,43″ AMOLED display, and a 500 mAh battery for approximately 72 hours of use. It's water-resistant to 50 meters and includes classic health functions. A very complete watch with a good price/performance ratio.
• Samsung Galaxy Watch7 (40/44mm)Super AMOLED (1,3″ on the 40mm and 1,5″ on the 44mm), sapphire crystal, Exynos W1000 processor, 2GB RAM, 32GB storage, Wear OS (compatible with Android), 5 ATM water resistance, and a full complement of sensors (impedance, temperature, light). Reviews have described it as a “mini smartphone” due to its wrist capabilities.
• Samsung galaxy watch8Bright Super AMOLED display (up to 2.000 nits according to some reviews), Exynos W1000 5-core processor, AI with Gemini in select versions, Energy Score, and expanded sleep analysis. Fast charging and health enhancements with alerts for out-of-the-ordinary metrics.
• Huawei Watch 3ActiveeSIM to use the same mobile number, MeeTime to transfer calls to smart displays, 1,43″ screen, offline music (up to 6 GB) and up to 14 days of battery life. Ideal for those who want calls and data without always carrying their phone.
• Apple Watch SE 2nd gen (2023)watchOS 10, heart rate, accident detection, workout modes, and Retina display. Robust connectivity and the entire Apple ecosystem in a more affordable format.
• Apple Watch Series 10High-brightness LTPO OLED display, S10 and U2 chips, comprehensive health sensors (SpO2, ECG, temperature), and fast charging. For users who want the latest from Apple without compromise.
• Ticwatch Pro 5Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1, 3–4 days of battery life, AMOLED panel with low-power secondary display, NFC, over 100 sports apps, and an LTE version. Great performance, although the Wear OS update schedule is sometimes slow.
• Google PixelWatch 2Highly accurate sensors with AI functions for stress and temperature monitoring, backups, and guided training. Some users report charging and connectivity issues; these should be assessed based on usage.
• Garmin Vivomove Trend40mm hybrid watch with analog dial and stainless steel bezel, health tracking (Pulse Ox, Body Battery, stress, sleep), Garmin Pay, and wireless charging. Refined aesthetics without sacrificing key features.

Wear OS, watchOS, or something else? Compatibility rules.

If you have an iPhone, the Apple Watch (SE, Series 9/10) is the logical choice for integration, apps, and payments. On Android, Samsung with Wear OS offers the most complete experience right now, with access to the Play Store and advanced health and AI features. Platforms like HarmonyOS (Huawei) or Zepp OS (Amazfit) are reliable, save battery, and usually include very detailed health metrics, but they sacrifice an app store or certain features. third-party applications.

In some older texts you'll see references to Tizen on Samsung devices, but the current reality of the Watch7/Watch8 is Wear OS with Samsung's custom interface, which adds its own features (BioActive, Energy Score) and maintains compatibility with Android. Always confirm the operating system in the specifications of the model you intend to buy to avoid any issues. surprises.

Quick checklist for buying well for under €300

• Your mobile first: iPhone = Apple Watch SE; Android = Galaxy Watch7, Huawei GT or Amazfit for more battery.
• Serious sport: Garmin Forerunner 255 Music or Amazfit Cheetah Pro (GPS and top metrics).
• Payments + music + notifications: Wear OS (Galaxy Watch7) or Apple Watch SE.
• Battery: Huawei GT5/GT3, OnePlus Watch 2, Ticwatch Pro 5 or Amazfit Bip 6.

If you're looking for a safe bet under €300, the Samsung galaxy watch7 It's usually the most well-rounded in terms of screen, sensors, apps, and sale price. For iPhone, the Apple WatchSE It remains the master key to the ecosystem. And if you're into intense training and want serious data, aim for Garmin Forerunner 255 or Amazfit Cheetah ProWhen your budget allows or you find a good deal, the Watch8, Series 9, or a Ticwatch Pro 5 elevate the experience without complications, and if battery life is your priority, the Huawei Watch GT and OnePlus Watch 2 are in a different league when it comes to long battery life. shipper.