If you do a quick search on Amazon for smartwatches – I’ve already done it for you here, because I’m cool like that- you’ll notice that there are a lot of generic models in the list. Of course, you can also see the big names like the Samsung Galaxy Gear, Pebble and Qualcomm Toq.

When it comes to picking up gadgets on the cheap, you’re potentially risking money that could be saved and used for a much better device. Then again, there are plenty of gadget and techie freaks that love to pick up generic devices to tinker with. Whatever your reason for picking up one of the cheaper alternatives, you want to make sure you’re picking out the right model before you plop down the cash.

Take the Android smartphone market for example. It’s completely saturated with devices ranging from very cheap, to remarkably expensive. The performance ratings for all the available devices are across the board too. Some cheap smartphones work just as good as the more expensive ones, and vice versa. You really have to do a bit of research before you run out and pick up a smartphone just to make sure you don’t end up with a dud- because there are plenty out there.

However, the smartwatch market is fairly young so it’s more difficult to find documentation on some of the generic devices. That’s why I’ve tracked down as much information as I can about the alternatives on the market, saving you from all of the tedious leg-work. If you’re looking to purchase an off-brand smartwatch then you’ve come to the right place!

No, just no

First off, I’m going to highlight the models everyone should steer clear of. If you own one of these devices feel free to share your experience in the comments.

What you choose to spend your money on is your business. I’m just saying these are not recommended based on customer feedback and product information or a lack therof.

• Koolertron LCD Bluetooth alert bracelet
• Bluetooth bracelet with vibration function
• Mobile watch with caller ID and Bluetooth
• GSM Quadband voice dialing watch cell phone
• 2012 newest multifunctional 1.8-inch touchscreen watch cell phone

Watch phone with mobile touch screen and camera by Victor

Image by Amazon

For a wallet busting $49.95 you can own one of these bad boys. If you purchase from Amazon, you can pick up the device in four different colors: pink, white, pink-gold, or white-gold. The important thing to note here is that this device is not designed to replace your daily driver or main cell phone. It does not include any notification or alert features either so you cannot pair it to a phone.

Instead, it’s simply meant to be a “smart” watch that includes cell phone functionality. It works with GSM networks and supports the appropriate SIM cards, so that means you can use it with AT&T and T-Mobile networks (no Verizon or Sprint). The GSM functionality does mean you can use it to place or receive calls and text messages if you so desire. It includes a 1.3″ OLED touchscreen display, and even supports a bevy of media formats and content. Although, I’m not entirely sure why anyone would want to watch videos on a small 1.3″ screen, but you can do that as long as they are of the 3GP, AVI or MP4 variety. Before you ask, yes you can use the device to play MP3s and listen to music, which is great for those times when you want to work out without a smartphone in your pocket or attached to your person.

The battery is a lithium-ion with an 500mAh capacity. According to the manufacturer it will last for three days in standby, or 150-180 minutes during a continuous phone call. Several reviews indicate that statement is quite accurate. I definitely recommend reading a few of the reviews before picking one of these up, as they will give you a better idea of what to expect from the device. That being said, the watch phone is one of the better options out there provided you’re not looking for notification support.

PGD MQ588 Handsfree Digital Smartwatch

It’s worth noting that this watch model and it’s many color variants show up on Amazon several times, with pages listed under different sellers. Take that for what it is. The watch is also listed by Wismemo, and Sourcingbay. If you’re interested in viewing more information on the device in question then you can also check out the other seller pages.

Image by Amazon

This smartwatch features a 1.54″ TFT touchscreen display, which is about the same size as a 6th generation iPod Nano. It’s compatible with Android and iPhone, but the Bluetooth v2.0 functionality might work with other devices too (cannot be confirmed). The manufacturer states clearly that the watch will only connect and synchronize data with Android devices running Android 2.3-4.0. Other versions of Android are not compatible, and you will need to install a special Android app to get this device working  properly. I’m not sure if that includes OS versions higher than 4.0, so if you’re on the fence it might be better to hold off until there are some more reviews available. Speaking of reviews, most of the product pages have no customer reviews listed which means you could be flying blind if you pick one of these up.

Main functions include two-way calling support and SMS notifications displayed on the watch, if you install the companion app on a connected smartphone.

It includes a 400mAh lithium-ion battery which supposedly lasts three hours under heavy use or three days in standby. Five colors are available: including black, blue, orange, pink and white. The watchface and steel frame are always the same when, in fact, the wrist band is offered in different colors.

QOne Smartwatch

Image by QOne

The QOne actually looks a lot like the smartwatch above. The wristband is even available in the same five colors: black, white, orange, blue and pink.

It’s designed to be a standalone device that can make and receive calls and text messages. According to the manufacturer you can also connect to an Android or iOS phone and sync data. The display is a 1.54″ touchscreen running at a 240×240 resolution. Additional features include a 1.3MP CMOS camera, a microSD slot compatible with media up to 32GB, and full GPRS support. It takes SIM cards and supports GSM 850, 900, 1800, and 1900MHz bands which means it works on T-Mobile and AT&T’s networks.

All of it can be had for just $179, which isn’t too bad when you realize it offers more support than the Galaxy Gear at nearly half the price. Did I mention that the device is manufactured in the US?

There are Better Models

Please keep in mind that I’m not trying to convince you to purchase any of the devices listed here. In fact, I wholeheartedly recommend that you save your money and purchase a better device. That being said, I understand you may or may not not to get something cheaper and more affordable which is exactly why I put this list together. As I said above, if you have had an experience with one of the devices listed here please share your thoughts in the comments. This will help others in the community make a more informed decision.