I recently checked out the world of budget smartwatches (think under ₹2000), and what I found genuinely surprised me. While you might not get the features of an Apple Watch, these entry-level smart companions pack enough functionality to make you do a double-take.
Here's a rundown of five surprisingly capable smartwatches you can grab without burning a hole in your wallet. I've covered the features, what worked, what didn't, and my personal take—because let's be honest, spec sheets don't tell the whole story.
Let's start with a bang. The Fire-Boltt ARC sports a stunning 49.8mm AMOLED curved display that looks amazing. Seriously, the wrap-around effect gives this one a premium vibe.
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Final thoughts: If aesthetics matter to you and you want your wrist to look stylish without emptying your wallet, this is a solid pick.
The boAt Wave Call 2 Plus hits hard with a large 1.96" display and surprisingly clear visuals. Hindi and English support? That's a nice touch for desi users.
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Final thoughts: If you want an interactive experience that blends fitness and functionality—and don't mind the size—this one's a winner.
First things first: the 500 nits brightness on this one is no joke. The 1.69" display is sharp enough to help you read what's written on display even in bright sunlight.
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Final thoughts: If you're after a clean design, sharp display, and a practical wellness companion, the Buzz gives more than it costs.
This one's a powerhouse. The Boult Drift+ brings a whopping 100+ sports modes, all-day health monitoring, and solid call quality to the table.
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Final thoughts: If you're the type who wants it all—health, fitness, calls, and even some AI flair—this is a heavy hitter for under ₹2,000.
Rounding out the list is the Fire-Boltt Phoenix Pro—a balanced all-rounder that tries to do a bit of everything without showing off too much.
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Final thoughts: If you prefer form with function and don't need extras like animated faces or GPS, this one's a safe and stylish choice.
Choosing a smartwatch under ₹2000 used to mean major compromises, but not anymore. Whether you want a sleek AMOLED design, a fitness-focused companion, or just something that looks good on your wrist, there's a smart pick here for everyone.
If I had to pick a favourite? Tough call—but the Fire-Boltt ARC stands out for design, while Boult Drift+ feels like the most feature-loaded. Ultimately, the best smartwatch is the one that fits your lifestyle (and wrist size).
So, are you ready to upgrade your wrist game without downgrading your bank balance?
The recommendations and insights shared in this article are the result of a carefully structured evaluation process conducted by the editorial team at The Hook. To ensure the list truly reflects what Indian consumers need in 2025, we based our selections on a mix of qualitative and quantitative research.
We took into account brand reputation and reliability, with a focus on manufacturers known for consistent product quality and innovation in the Indian market. Just as important was each brand's after-sales service network.
We also studied user reviews and feedback posted on trusted e-commerce platforms like Flipkart and Amazon, as well as consumer forums and Reddit threads, to understand real-world experiences beyond the spec sheets.
Finally, the models featured were shortlisted after detailed brainstorming, internal discussions, and editorial analysis, balancing technical performance, design, pricing, energy efficiency, and everyday practicality. The goal: to offer readers a list that's not just data-driven, but genuinely useful when making a buying decision for their home.
