// ENGADGET — HARDWARE & GADGET
The pros and cons of using an Amazfit smartwatch
Amazfit watches are easy on your wallet, but they can’t do everything.
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
Amazfit smartwatches are widely considered to be good alternatives to the bigger brands. They're generally cheaper, with some models like the well-reviewed Amazfit Bip 6 available for as little as $80. But as you would expect, there are concessions to be made to justify the lower price.
The line from the Chinese company Zepp Health includes a wide range of smartwatches to suit any lifestyle, from casual wearers to serious athletes. However, they run on a proprietary OS that limits app access, and some models have limited storage. The companion app also isn't the most intuitive.
On the plus side, Amazfit smartwatches focus on AI-powered software using its Zepp Coach and offer long battery life, with some models lasting for up to 25 days per charge. You can also find deals on Amazfit smartwatches, which are already affordable to begin with.
Before you commit, it helps to know what you're getting and what you're giving up. Here's why so many people consider Amazfit in the first place.
Amazfit smartwatches are sleek, with designs that resemble other popular models. You'll find square-shaped options like the Bip 6 and Active 2 (Square) that look like an Apple Watch. There are also round-faced ones like the Amazfit Active Max and the Amazfit T-Rex 3, which is designed for outdoor adventurers and resembles a Garmin watch in its aesthetic.
Another advantage is cross-device compatibility. You can pair an Amazfit smartwatch with either iPhone or Android since it uses its own operating system and isn't tied to either. Many trusted outlets also rank Amazfit watch models among the best budget smartwatches, citing accurate health tracking along with their stylish designs. They also note that integrations like the AI Coach, Bluetooth calling and Alexa command support are top-notch.
Amazfit smartwatches also offer over 100 sports modes, from strength training and running to gardening and Tai Chi. And they have all the important sensors you'd want for data, including heart rate, sleep, temperature, GPS and more.
Amazfit is a solid budget smartwatch brand you can continue to use even if you swap phone platforms. There's also no subscription tier for any of the data it tracks and reports, and these watches are a step up from the best cheap fitness trackers, with larger screens for at-a-glance information and control on your wrist.