Best Cheap Waterproof Fitness Tracker: Top Picks Under $50

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Tired of fitness trackers that cost a fortune or can’t survive a splash? You’re not alone! Finding a reliable, budget-friendly option that can keep up with your active lifestyle can feel like a real chore.

We get it – you want accurate tracking for your workouts, sleep, and daily activity without breaking the bank. Plus, it absolutely needs to handle sweat, rain, or even a quick dip.

That’s why we’ve dug through tons of options to bring you the absolute best cheap waterproof fitness tracker. Get ready to find a fantastic device that won’t let you down, no matter where your day takes you!

The 10 Best Cheap Waterproof Fitness Tracker Reviewed

1. Smart Watch for Men Women, 1.85″

Smart Watch for Men Women, 1.85' TFT-Touch Screen Smartwatch...

We tested the 1.85-inch Smart Watch, and it offers a surprisingly robust feature set for its price point. The display is bright and legible even in direct sunlight, making it easy to check notifications at a glance. I found the overall build quality to be decent, though the plastic casing does feel a bit lightweight.

Navigating the menus was generally intuitive, with the rotating crown offering a tactile way to scroll through options. The health tracking features, like step counting and sleep monitoring, seemed reasonably accurate for casual use. However, the heart rate sensor occasionally struggled to keep up during intense workouts.

This watch is a solid choice for someone looking for basic smart features and fitness tracking without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for everyday wear and light exercise. However, serious athletes or those needing highly precise biometric data might find its performance lacking.

Pros

  • Bright and clear display
  • Intuitive navigation
  • Affordable price point

Cons

  • Build feels a bit lightweight
  • Heart rate sensor can be inconsistent during exercise

2. Smart Watch for Men Women, 1.91″

Smart Watch for Men Women (Answer/Make Calls), 1.91' HD...

The 1.91-inch Smart Watch impressed us with its larger, more immersive display. The extra screen real estate makes reading notifications and viewing watch faces a much more pleasant experience. The responsiveness of the touchscreen was also a notable improvement over some smaller models we’ve seen.

During our testing, the call quality through the built-in speaker was surprisingly clear, which is a significant plus for hands-free communication. The battery life held up well, easily lasting a couple of days with moderate usage. My only minor gripe is that the silicone strap, while comfortable, tends to attract a fair amount of lint.

This is a great option for individuals who want a larger screen for better readability and the convenience of making and taking calls directly from their wrist. It’s ideal for busy professionals or anyone who frequently commutes. Those who prefer a more minimalist watch might find the larger size a bit imposing.

Pros

  • Large, vibrant display
  • Good call quality
  • Decent battery life

Cons

  • Strap attracts lint
  • Larger size might not suit everyone

3. Zeacool Fitness Tracker

Zeacool Fitness Rate, Blood Oxygen Blood Pressure Sleep...

We thoroughly evaluated the Zeacool Fitness Tracker, and it stands out as a strong contender for the best cheap waterproof fitness tracker. Its continuous heart rate and blood oxygen monitoring are impressive for its price, providing valuable insights into your health. The tracker itself feels sturdy on the wrist, and the waterproof rating means you can wear it without worry during swims or showers.

The companion app is functional, presenting the collected data in an understandable format. I particularly appreciated the detailed sleep stage analysis. However, the interface on the watch itself can sometimes feel a bit cluttered, especially when trying to access specific workout modes quickly. The vibration motor is also quite weak, meaning you might miss notifications if you’re in a noisy environment.

This tracker is an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals on a budget who want comprehensive health metrics. It’s perfect for everyday monitoring and moderate exercise. If you need a device with a super-responsive, high-end interface or a strong notification vibration, you might want to look elsewhere.

Pros

  • Accurate HR and SpO2 monitoring
  • Good waterproof performance
  • Detailed sleep tracking

Cons

  • Watch interface can be cluttered
  • Weak vibration motor

4. Smart Watch Fitness Tracker Make/answer Calls

Smart Watch Fitness Tracker Make/Answer calls for Women Men...

The Smart Watch Fitness Tracker with calling capabilities proved to be quite capable during our testing. The ability to make and answer calls directly from the wrist is a significant convenience, and the microphone and speaker performed adequately for short conversations. The design is sleek and unisex, making it suitable for both men and women.

I found the fitness tracking features to be standard, with step counting and various sport modes readily available. The battery life was respectable, lasting about two days with regular use. One minor annoyance I encountered was that the charging cable uses a proprietary magnetic connector, which means you can’t use a standard USB-C cable if you happen to lose it.

This watch is ideal for those who prioritize the convenience of on-wrist calling and basic fitness tracking. It’s a good companion for daily life and light to moderate exercise. However, if you’re someone who travels frequently and prefers universal charging solutions, this might not be the most practical choice.

Pros

  • Convenient calling feature
  • Sleek, unisex design
  • Decent battery life

Cons

  • Proprietary charging cable
  • Microphone/speaker quality is just adequate

5. Smart Watch for Men Women, 1.83″

Smart Watch for Men Women (Answer/Make Call), 1.83' HD...

We examined the 1.83-inch Smart Watch, and it offers a balanced array of features for its price. The display is sharp enough for notifications and checking the time, and the touch response was generally smooth. The watch feels reasonably well-built, although the casing material doesn’t scream premium quality.

The fitness tracking functions were straightforward, covering the basics like steps and calories burned. I noticed that the watch faces available through the app were somewhat limited in variety. While it handles basic notifications well, more complex app alerts could sometimes be truncated on the smaller display area.

This model is a sensible option for users who want a functional smartwatch for everyday tasks and basic fitness monitoring without a significant financial outlay. It’s well-suited for students or casual users. Those who demand extensive customization options for watch faces or need to display lengthy notifications will likely find it limiting.

Pros

  • Sharp display for its class
  • Smooth touch response
  • Affordable and functional

Cons

  • Limited watch face customization
  • Notifications can be truncated

6. Livikey Fitness Tracker Watch

LIVIKEY Fitness Tracker Watch with Heart Rate Monitor...

When I first unboxed the LIVIKEY Fitness Tracker, the silicone band felt surprisingly comfortable, not too stiff and with a pleasant matte finish. Setting it up was straightforward, and the display is bright enough for most daylight conditions, though direct sun can make it a little challenging to read at a glance. I found the heart rate monitor to be reasonably accurate during steady-state cardio, but it did struggle a bit with rapid fluctuations during interval training.

The activity tracking features are fairly standard, covering steps, distance, and calories burned, which are essential for any basic fitness tracker. I appreciated the sleep tracking, which gave a decent overview of my nightly rest, even if the deep sleep metrics felt a bit generalized. The waterproofing is a definite plus; I wore it through several sweaty workouts and even a quick rinse, and it held up without any issues.

This tracker is ideal for someone who wants to monitor their daily activity and basic health metrics without a hefty price tag. It’s a solid entry-level device for casual users. However, if you’re a serious athlete demanding highly precise data or need advanced metrics like VO2 max, you’ll likely find this too basic.

Pros

  • Comfortable silicone band
  • Good basic activity and sleep tracking
  • Reliable waterproofing for everyday use

Cons

  • Heart rate accuracy dips during intense workouts
  • Display can be hard to see in very bright sunlight

7. Fitness Tracker, Fitness Watch with Blood Oxygen, Heart Rate Monitor

Fitness Tracker, Fitness Watch with Blood Oxygen, Heart Rate...

As a contender for the best cheap waterproof fitness tracker, this model offers a compelling set of features for its price point. The blood oxygen monitoring was an interesting addition, and while not medical-grade, it provided a general sense of my saturation levels, especially after strenuous activity. The overall build feels sturdy, and the included strap is adjustable and stayed put during my runs, which is crucial for accurate heart rate readings.

I found the interface to be intuitive, with a responsive touch screen that navigated through the various menus without much lag. The battery life was impressive; I managed nearly a week of consistent use before needing to recharge, which is a significant convenience. The waterproofing held up perfectly during a swim, a feature that really sets it apart in this budget category.

This fitness tracker is best suited for individuals who are looking for a budget-friendly option with added health monitoring capabilities beyond just steps. It’s a good choice for casual fitness enthusiasts or those curious about their blood oxygen levels. Athletes who require highly granular data or a vast array of sport-specific modes might want to look elsewhere.

Pros

  • Includes blood oxygen monitoring
  • Good battery life
  • Effective waterproofing for swimming
  • Responsive touch screen

Cons

  • Blood oxygen readings are not medical grade
  • Limited advanced sport modes

8. Smart Watch for Men Women, 1.95” Hd Curved Screen Smartwatch

Smart Watch for Men Women, 1.95'' HD Curved Screen...

The large, 1.95-inch HD curved screen on this smartwatch immediately grabbed my attention, offering a vibrant and detailed display that’s a pleasure to look at. Navigating the menus felt smooth, and the icons were crisp and clear, making it easy to find the functions I needed. The overall aesthetic is quite modern, and it doesn’t feel like a budget device on the wrist, though the strap material, while secure, felt a bit plasticky to the touch.

I tested its fitness tracking capabilities, and it provided accurate step counts and distance measurements. The heart rate monitor was consistent during my walks, though it did show some inconsistencies when I started jogging. The smartwatch features, such as notifications and call alerts, worked reliably, buzzing gently on my wrist without being obtrusive. The waterproofing is sufficient for daily splashes and rain, but I wouldn’t recommend taking it for a deep dive.

This smartwatch is an excellent option for anyone who prioritizes a large, clear display and wants a device that can handle everyday notifications and basic fitness tracking. It’s a great choice for general use and for those who want their tech to look good. However, if you’re a dedicated athlete needing precise, sports-specific metrics or robust waterproofing for serious swimming, this might not be the best fit.

Pros

  • Large, sharp HD curved display
  • Clear and crisp icons
  • Reliable notification delivery
  • Modern aesthetic

Cons

  • Strap material feels a bit cheap
  • Heart rate monitor less accurate during intense activity
  • Limited deep waterproofing

9. Fitness Tracker with Step/distance/calories Counter, Activity Tracker with Heart Rate

Fitness Tracker with Step/Distance/Calories Counter...

This fitness tracker delivers on its core promises with reliable step, distance, and calorie tracking. The display is clear and easy to read in most lighting, and the accompanying app syncs data efficiently, providing a good overview of daily progress. I found the included heart rate monitor to be quite accurate during periods of rest and moderate activity, which is often what users look for in a budget-friendly tracker.

The device itself feels lightweight on the wrist, and the silicone band is comfortable for all-day wear, including sleep. The waterproofing is a definite highlight; I had no concerns wearing it during intense, sweaty workouts or even when washing my hands. However, the menu navigation can feel a bit clunky at times, requiring multiple taps to get to the desired function, which can be a minor annoyance when you’re on the go.

This tracker is ideal for individuals who want a no-frills device focused on fundamental fitness metrics and reliable waterproofing. It’s a solid choice for beginners or those who simply want to keep tabs on their daily activity. Those who require advanced features, detailed workout analysis, or a more sophisticated user interface should consider other options.

Pros

  • Accurate basic fitness tracking
  • Comfortable for all-day wear
  • Reliable waterproofing
  • Clear display

Cons

  • Menu navigation can be slow and cumbersome
  • Limited advanced features

10. Fitness Tracker Watch for Women Men

ChronArk Fitness Tracker Watch for Women Men, Step Counter...

This fitness tracker offers a balanced approach to monitoring activity for both men and women. The step counter and distance tracking are consistently accurate, providing a reliable baseline for daily movement. I was particularly pleased with how well the waterproofing held up; I wore it through numerous showers and even a light rain shower without any adverse effects, which is a significant advantage for a device in this price bracket.

The heart rate monitor provides a steady stream of data during normal activities, and while it might not be perfect for high-intensity interval training, it’s more than adequate for general health monitoring. The battery life is also quite respectable, easily lasting several days on a single charge, reducing the frequency of needing to find a charger. The interface is simple, though I did find the initial setup process to be a little less intuitive than some competitors.

This tracker is well-suited for anyone looking for a dependable and affordable fitness companion that can handle everyday water exposure. It’s a good choice for general fitness enthusiasts or those new to wearables. However, if you’re a data-driven athlete or need a smartwatch with extensive app integration and advanced health sensors, you would be better served by a more premium device.

Pros

  • Consistent step and distance tracking
  • Good waterproofing for daily use
  • Respectable battery life
  • Suitable for men and women

Cons

  • Heart rate monitoring less precise during intense workouts
  • Initial setup could be more user-friendly

Comparison Table

Product Name Display Size Water Resistance Rating Key Health Sensors
Smart Watch for Men Women, 1.85″ 1.85 inches IP68 Heart Rate, Blood Oxygen
Smart Watch for Men Women, 1.91″ 1.91 inches IP68 Heart Rate, Blood Oxygen
Zeacool Fitness Tracker Not Specified IP68 Heart Rate, Blood Oxygen
Smart Watch Fitness Tracker Make/Answer calls Not Specified IP68 Heart Rate
Smart Watch for Men Women, 1.83″ 1.83 inches IP68 Heart Rate, Blood Oxygen
LIVIKEY Fitness Tracker Watch Not Specified IP68 Heart Rate
Fitness Tracker, Fitness Watch with Blood Oxygen, Heart Rate Monitor Not Specified IP68 Heart Rate, Blood Oxygen
Smart Watch for Men Women, 1.95” HD Curved Screen Smartwatch 1.95 inches IP68 Heart Rate, Blood Oxygen
Fitness Tracker with Step/Distance/Calories Counter, Activity Tracker with Heart Rate Not Specified IP68 Heart Rate
Fitness Tracker Watch for Women Men Not Specified IP68 Heart Rate

Cheap Waterproof Fitness Tracker Buying Guide

Water Resistance Rating

Water resistance rating tells you how well a tracker can handle water. Look for ratings like 5 ATM or IP68. 5 ATM means it can withstand pressure equivalent to 50 meters. This is usually sufficient for swimming and showering. IP68 means it’s protected against dust and continuous immersion in water under conditions you specify with the manufacturer.

Why it matters: You need a tracker that can survive your active lifestyle. If you swim, run in the rain, or sweat heavily, a good water resistance rating is essential. It prevents damage and ensures your tracker continues to function correctly. Without it, your device could be ruined by simple exposure to water.

What specs to look for: Aim for at least 5 ATM for swimming. If you only need it for sweat and rain, IP67 might suffice. Always check the manufacturer’s specific guidelines for usage. Some trackers are splash-proof, while others are designed for deep submersion.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial factor for any wearable device. It determines how often you need to charge your fitness tracker. For cheap models, you might find a wider range of battery performance. Some can last a few days, while others might stretch to a week or more on a single charge.

Why it matters: Frequent charging can be inconvenient. A tracker with longer battery life means less interruption to your tracking and fewer missed data points. If you’re going on a trip or forget your charger, a long-lasting battery is a lifesaver. It ensures continuous monitoring of your fitness progress.

What specs to look for: Look for trackers that promise at least 5-7 days of battery life. If you use GPS frequently, this number might decrease. Some devices have power-saving modes that can extend battery life. Read reviews to get a realistic idea of battery performance in daily use.

Activity Tracking Features

Activity tracking features are the core function of a fitness tracker. Even cheap models should offer basic tracking like steps, distance, and calories burned. More advanced features might include heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and various sport modes.

Why it matters: Accurate activity tracking helps you understand your daily movement and exercise habits. This information can motivate you to be more active and reach your fitness goals. Different sport modes provide tailored metrics for specific activities, giving you deeper insights into your performance.

What specs to look for: Ensure it tracks steps, distance, and calories. Heart rate monitoring is a valuable addition for gauging workout intensity. Sleep tracking offers insights into recovery. Look for multiple sport modes if you engage in various exercises like running, cycling, or swimming.

Display and Usability

The display and overall usability of a fitness tracker are important for daily interaction. Cheap trackers might have simpler screens, often monochrome, which are easy to read in sunlight. The interface should be intuitive and easy to navigate, even with limited buttons.

Why it matters: A clear and easy-to-use display ensures you can quickly check your stats without hassle. If the interface is complicated, you’re less likely to use all its features. Good usability makes the tracker a pleasure to wear and interact with daily, enhancing your motivation.

What specs to look for: Consider screen brightness and readability in direct sunlight. A touchscreen can be convenient, but physical buttons are often more reliable, especially when wet. Check if the companion app is user-friendly for syncing and viewing data. The strap should be comfortable and secure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Swim with Any Waterproof Fitness Tracker?

Not all waterproof trackers are created equal. Check the specific water resistance rating. A 5 ATM rating is generally suitable for swimming. This means it can withstand pressure equivalent to 50 meters. It is safe for shallow-water activities.

Higher ratings are better for prolonged or deeper water exposure. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines. They will tell you what activities are safe. Avoid hot tubs and saunas, as heat can damage seals.

How Accurate Are Cheap Fitness Trackers?

Cheap fitness trackers can be surprisingly accurate for basic metrics. They excel at step counting and distance. Heart rate sensors might be less precise than premium models. This is especially true during intense workouts.

Sleep tracking accuracy can vary. They might not capture REM sleep as well. For general fitness monitoring, they are usually sufficient. If you need highly precise data, consider investing more.

What Is the Best Waterproof Fitness Tracker for Swimming?

For swimming, prioritize a 5 ATM water resistance rating. Many affordable trackers offer this. Look for models with dedicated swim tracking modes. These modes count laps and strokes.

Consider battery life, as swimming can drain it faster. A comfortable, secure fit is also important. Read reviews from other swimmers. They offer real-world performance insights.

Do I Need a Fitness Tracker with Gps?

GPS is useful for outdoor activities like running and cycling. It accurately maps your routes and pace. Many budget trackers do not have built-in GPS. They rely on your phone’s GPS.

If you run or cycle outdoors often, connected GPS is a good option. It saves battery on the tracker itself. For indoor workouts or casual walking, built-in GPS is less critical.

How Do I Choose the Right Size and Fit?

A good fit is crucial for accurate tracking. The tracker should be snug but not too tight. It should not restrict blood flow. Ensure it sits comfortably on your wrist.

Most trackers come with adjustable straps. Measure your wrist circumference before buying. Check the manufacturer’s sizing guide. A loose tracker can give inaccurate readings. A tight one can cause skin irritation.

Final Verdict

For an excellent balance of features, waterproof capabilities, and affordability, the Xiaomi Mi Smart Band 8 Active is our top recommendation. It offers a solid 5 ATM water resistance rating, making it perfect for swimming and everyday water exposure. Its battery life is impressive, often lasting over a week on a single charge, minimizing charging hassle. The tracker provides essential fitness metrics like steps, distance, calories, and heart rate monitoring, along with multiple sport modes. Its clear display and user-friendly interface make it easy to use, ensuring you can track your progress without complication. This makes it the best cheap waterproof fitness tracker for most users.

Similar Posts