Budget fitness trackers typically cost less than $50 and often have basic features such as step counting, distance tracking, and calorie tracking. Some may also include heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking. The benefits of using a fitness tracker include the ability to track and monitor your physical activity, set and track goals, and view data on your progress over time. Additionally, many fitness trackers allow you to connect with other users, join challenges, and access additional features through companion apps. This can help to increase motivation and accountability.
Best budget fitness trackers
 There are many budget fitness trackers available on the market, but some popular options include:
- Xiaomi Mi Band 5: This tracker is lightweight and has a long battery life. It tracks steps, sleep, and heart rate, and also has a water-resistant design. It’s one of the most affordable options, often costing around $40.
- Letsfit Smart Watch: This tracker has a color touch screen and tracks steps, calories, sleep, and heart rate. It also has a water-resistant design and can display notifications from your phone. Its price is around $30.
- Amazfit Bip: This tracker has a long battery life and tracks steps, distance, calories, and sleep. It also has a built-in GPS and heart rate monitoring, as well as a water-resistant design. Its price is around $70.
- Samsung Galaxy Fit: This tracker has a slim and sleek design, and tracks steps, distance, calories, and sleep. It also has heart rate monitoring and water resistance. Its price is around $70.
- Honor Band 5: This tracker has a color AMOLED display, tracks steps, sleep, and heart rate, and also has water resistance. Its price is around $30.
Keep in mind that features and prices can vary depending on the model and where you purchase the device. It’s always a good idea to research and compare different options before making a decision.
Best features of a budget fitness tracker
 The best features of a budget fitness tracker will vary depending on the specific model and your personal needs and preferences, but some commonly found features include:
- Step counting: This feature uses an accelerometer to track the number of steps you take throughout the day.
- Heart rate monitoring: Some budget fitness trackers include a heart rate monitor that can track your heart rate throughout the day and during exercise.
- Sleep tracking: This feature can track the duration and quality of your sleep, including how long you spend in each sleep stage.
- Activity tracking: Many budget fitness trackers can track a variety of activities, such as running, cycling, or swimming, and provide data on distance, calories burned, and other metrics.
- GPS: Some budget fitness trackers include GPS, which allows you to track your location and distance without carrying your phone.
- Water resistance: Many budget fitness trackers are water resistant, which means you can wear them while swimming or showering.
- Battery life: Budget fitness trackers typically have a longer battery life than more expensive models, up to a week or more.
- Smartphone notifications: Some budget fitness trackers can receive and display notifications from your smartphone, such as text messages, calls, and social media updates.
- Companion app: Most budget fitness trackers come with a companion app that allows you to view your data, set goals, and access additional features.
It’s important to consider which features are most important to you and choose a tracker that meets those needs.
How to choose the best budget fitness tracker
 When choosing the best budget fitness tracker, consider the following factors:
- Features: Consider which features are most important to you. Do you want a tracker that can track steps, sleep, and heart rate? Do you want one that can track your location via GPS? Do you want one that can track swimming or cycling?
- Accuracy: Some budget fitness trackers may not be as accurate as more expensive models. Research the accuracy of the tracker you are considering and read reviews from other users.
- Battery life: Consider how long the battery lasts on a single charge and whether it’s enough for your needs.
- Design and Comfort: Think about the design and comfort of the tracker. Will it be comfortable to wear all day? Is it small enough to wear discreetly? Does it have a display that is easy to read?
- Smartphone compatibility: check if the tracker is compatible with your smartphone and if it offers the features you need, such as push notifications.
- Price: Budget fitness trackers range in price, so consider how much you’re willing to spend. Compare prices and features of different models to find the best value.
- Support and updates: check if the company offers good customer support and regular software updates.
- Companion app: See if the companion app is well-designed and user-friendly and if it offers additional features.
Ultimately, the best budget fitness tracker for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It’s a good idea to research different models and read reviews from other users before making a decision.
Conclusion
 Based on the factors to consider when choosing a budget fitness tracker, I would recommend the Xiaomi Mi Band 5. This tracker offers a great balance of features and affordability. It’s lightweight and has a long battery life and it tracks steps, sleep, and heart rate, and also has a water-resistant design. It also has a companion app that allows you to view your data, set goals, and access additional features. Additionally, it’s one of the most affordable options, often costing around $40.
It’s important to note that this is just a suggestion and you should always consider your own needs and preferences before making a final decision.
