As the new year of 2026 begins, many are setting fresh fitness goals. However, the overwhelming choice of wearable technology can make picking the right device a daunting and potentially costly decision. Technology expert and long-time wearable user Chris Hall has cut through the noise to recommend four standout devices, from a budget-friendly band under £40 to a feature-packed sports watch at £229.99.
Band vs Watch: Choosing Your Fitness Companion
According to Hall, the first major choice for consumers is between a fitness band and a sports watch. Fitness bands are typically more affordable and discreet, ideal for continuous lifestyle tracking where data is reviewed later. For those who desire real-time feedback and more detailed metrics during exercise, a sports watch with its larger display and enhanced functionality is the superior option, especially for regular runners, swimmers, or cyclists.
Top Picks for Every Budget
Hall's selections cater to a wide range of needs and financial plans, ensuring there's a capable device for every aspiring fitness enthusiast in 2026.
Xiaomi Smart Band 9: The Budget Powerhouse (Approx. £34.99)
For those seeking exceptional value, the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 is a standout. Priced well under £50, this slim and light band boasts a 1.62-inch AMOLED touchscreen and an impressive 21-day battery life. It monitors sleep, steps, heart rate, and blood oxygen, supporting over 150 sport modes. Its smooth interface and variety of colours make it a perfect, unobtrusive companion for 24/7 health insights.
Amazfit Bip 6: The Feature-Rich Value Watch (£61.99)
Stepping up to a watch form factor, the Amazfit Bip 6 offers tremendous value. It features a 1.97-inch AMOLED display in a square design reminiscent of an Apple Watch, 140 activity modes, and two weeks of battery life. A key upgrade from the Xiaomi band is its integrated GPS for accurate route tracking. Through the Zepp app, it provides notifications, coaching, and detailed recovery guidance based on your sleep and activity data.
Fitbit Charge 6: The Advanced Fitness Band (From £84.00)
From one of the most recognised brands in wearables, the Fitbit Charge 6 is a highly capable band. Starting at £84.00 on Amazon, it packs advanced health monitoring into a compact design with a 1.04-inch display. Its standout features include GPS tracking and ECG functionality, which are rare for a device of this type. It also offers high/low heart rate warnings and can broadcast heart rate data to gym equipment. The accompanying app provides a Daily Readiness Score to help plan training.
Garmin Forerunner 165: The Runner's Choice (£229.99)
For serious fitness enthusiasts, particularly runners, Hall points to Garmin. The Forerunner 165, while the priciest on his list at £229.99, delivers premium features. It has a gorgeous 1.2-inch round AMOLED display, 11-day battery life, and comprehensive tracking for all major sports. It offers advanced training metrics, recovery advice, and a unique Body Battery energy score. Beyond fitness, it functions as a smartwatch with music, payments, and notifications.
Making the Right Investment for Your Goals
Hall emphasises that the right device can significantly boost motivation and provide valuable guidance. Whether you opt for the ultra-affordable tracking of the Xiaomi band or the in-depth athletic analysis of the Garmin watch, each of these 2026 recommendations represents a smart investment towards achieving your personal fitness objectives, helping you avoid an expensive mistake by choosing a device perfectly suited to your lifestyle and ambitions.
