I’m looking for advice on a smartwatch or fitness tracker to use for running, but I don’t want to spend too much. My budget is around €80, but I could stretch it to €100 if I find a good deal for Black Friday (in Italy).
I know brands like Garmin are ideal, but they’re too expensive right now. I’ve just started walking and want to try light running, but I’m not sure if I’ll be able to keep it up due to an old injury, so I prefer not to invest too much initially.
I want a device that can track my run and tell me when to walk and when to run, like a C25K program. I need the option to set the durations myself, not just use presets. Ideally, it would have GPS to make the data more accurate.
It would be great if I could upload music to the device, but I doubt I can get that feature within my budget. I also want it to integrate with apps like Nike or Strava, and have a functional, up-to-date operating system.
I’ve looked at some products so far after watching reviews on sites and YouTube, here are the ones I’m considering:
Xiaomi Redmi Watch 4: I can change the timing here, which I need.
Amazfit Active: It’s a bit over budget but if there’s a good offer, I’m interested.
Amazfit Bip 5: The screen’s a bit big for my liking.
Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro: I’m worried it might be too expensive with the 9 Pro coming out soon.
Huawei: They get good reviews for sensors, but I’m not sure which models fit my budget.
Based on your budget, I think you’re looking in the right area.
I’m not sure if any of these will work directly with Nike Run or Strava apps though (be careful with Strava, they seem to be making some changes, and I haven’t looked into how it might impact app compatibility).
@Amari
Yes, I know I’ll probably need to use apps like Google Fitness to sync with Nike or Strava. My only concern with Xiaomi is that it seems harder to sync with these apps compared to Amazfit, even though the Xiaomi smartwatch itself feels smoother. I was hoping to hear from someone who’s had experience with these models to get some advice.
@Landry
My personal opinion, having used an Amazfit (not the Xiaomi), is that if you can save up and go for a Garmin, Coros, or Suunto – maybe a Polar – it would be worth it. I would suggest Garmin, as even though they are more expensive, they come with built-in coaching plans, like adaptive C25K programs up to half marathon, and daily workout suggestions for events (like the Forerunner 165). But they aren’t cheap. If you want a one-stop package, Garmin would be great.
That said, Amazfit products are decent if you don’t need super precise data, and they offer good value for the price. Just know they do have some basic flaws that might limit their potential.
@Amari
I get what you’re saying, but as I mentioned, I’m not sure if my knees will hold up for long, so I’m not sure if it’s worth going for a Garmin (I briefly considered the Garmin 55). Plus, I wouldn’t really make use of all its features right now. I don’t want to exceed my budget either because I’m an Apple user, so if I went a bit higher, I would go for an Apple Watch SE.
I’m not looking for something fancy, I just want to figure out if it’s worth spending a bit more on an Active or Redmi Watch 4 or if I should stick with a simpler Mi Band. Thanks for the input!
@Landry
If you can deal with the shorter battery life, do yourself a favor and get the Apple Watch. They do a really good job with running and offer plenty of C25K apps. Plus, you get all the smart features (I assume you have an iPhone since Apple Watches only work with iOS).