We are now fully in an era of personal diagnostics, where smart wearables mirror some functions of professional clinical tools, though not fully replacing them.

Something interesting is currently happening in the wearable device market. For years, smartwatches have dominated the health-focused wearable device space, and have evolved from simple step-counting gadgets to intelligent systems.

But in 2026, there is a new form factor on the rise that could challenge the dominance of the smartwatch, at least when it comes to health monitoring.

Smart rings are not actually new technology. They have been in the market since 2015 with the launch of Oura’s first-generation smart ring, and later, Motiv’s fitness ring in 2017.

But the Samsung Galaxy Ring which was introduced in mid 2024 brought more widespread publicity.

Smartwatch functions are similar to smart rings, but they differ in efficiency. Here is a comparison across health-focused metrics.

Biometrics Accuracy

Due to their different form factors, smart rings and smartwatches have different levels of accuracy when it comes to biometrics.

Unlike smartwatches that are fixed on the wrists, smart rings are worn on the fingers, which makes them closer to digital arteries and beneath thinner skin compared to the wrist.

This allows for more consistent signals when measuring important metrics like heart rate, blood oxygen (SpO2), and skin temperature.

Also, because smart rings maintain a stable fit on fingers, especially during sleep, it reduces the gaps in overnight data, which is common with smartwatches because they can shift position while you rest.

While recent smartwatches have improved, the limitations of sensory placement still give the smart ring an upper hand.

Health Metrics

One of the main wearable trends in 2026 is the shift from passive health tracking to intelligent health insights, which is even predictive in some devices.

Metrics like Heart Rate Variability (HRV), where wearables can now assess how well the body has recovered, and how ready the body is for physical activities, are where smart rings excel.

Also, their more continuous overnight data gives them an edge in sleep analysis and recovery insights, but they don’t really go beyond this.

Smartwatches in 2026 now come with AI-optimised chips, like WearOS 6 and WatchOS 26, that go beyond passive health monitoring, to predictive monitoring, where early signs of illnesses can be detected even before the user feels real signs of them.

The bottom line is, smartwatches are best for users who want a broader feature set, and predictive health intelligence,  while the smart ring is still superior for sleep recovery and passive health monitoring.

Battery Life

It is impossible to rule out battery life and power efficiency, because it directly affects health data.

Even with its lightweight and portability, smart rings like the RingConn Gen 2 can offer up to 10 days of battery life without needing a boost. Most smart rings are very power-efficient because of their simplicity and heavy reliance on just connectivity.

Smartwatches, on the other hand, might need to be charged up at least once a day or once every two days. For many users, especially in power-deficient nations like Nigeria, this might mean pulling it off to charge overnight, leading to incomplete sleep tracking.

User Experience

The user experience of the smartwatch and ring is completely different. One offers a screen for interaction, while the other is very similar to literal rings: no interfaces, just simplicity.

Most health-focused users today seek mindfulness, better sleep and reduced screen time. This is a major advantage of smart rings. The ring becomes a backdrop tool, not another device to compete with your phone for attention.

But in active scenarios, smartwatches still dominate, especially for fitness or for athletes. They offer built-in GPS to track runs, cycling, and workouts, along with real-time metrics like heart rate zones, pace, and distance.

Aside from fitness, a smartwatch can also serve as an alternative communication tool, and can handle calls, messages and apps, which is beyond smartphones.

As the theme for World Health Day 2026 reminds us, advancements in health require more people to embrace technology, and this year tech is becoming more wearable.

If your goal is long-term wellness, better sleep and continuous health insights, the smart ring is for you. But if your core focus is on athletic performance, real-time feedback, and staying connected, smartwatches remain the most versatile choice.

Ultimately, the best wearable is the one that fits into a user’s lifestyle pattern.

In recent years, smartwatches and fitness bands have changed from accessories that were once considered as luxury to very important pieces of technology for anyone who is serious about taking full control of their health.

These wearable devices are capable of serving multiple purposes, they can monitor heart rates and sleep patterns and also manage notifications while maintaining daily activity goals.

As the demand for this type of accessories increases, manufacturers are creating more efficient models to make sure quality no longer depends on a premium price tag.

The market has changed significantly, and manufacturers now offer smartwatches and fitness bands with many exciting features at affordable prices.

For individuals looking for reliable health tracking and smart features without overspending, models that sell for under N100,000 provide excellent value and functionality.

This article examines the market for affordable wearable technology in Nigeria, highlights key features to look out for before buying and also showcases some standout models that deliver impressive performance for a N100,000 budget.

Key Features to Look for Before Buying 

Before you purchase any smartwatch or fitness band, it is very important to understand the specific features that genuinely add value to your daily routine.

Actually, not all specifications matter equally, and prioritizing the right ones ensures you invest in a device that serves your exact needs satisfactorily.

Comprehensive Fitness Tracking

Modern fitness tracking goes way beyond counting the number of steps you make. A quality device should be able to monitor your heart rate continuously throughout the day, providing accurate insights into your cardiovascular health and exercise intensity (a measure of how much energy your body expends during an exercise). Sleep tracking has become equally important,

offering detailed analysis of sleep stages, duration, and quality. Also, monitoring the blood’s oxygen levels (SpO₂) has become an important health indicator too, especially after recent global health concerns. Go for devices that can offer accurate sensors and detailed analytics through their in-built applications.

Battery Life and Charging Convenience

The need to always charge your smart watch or fitness bands can impact negatively on the user experience.

How well the battery performs varies across models, with some lasting just for a few days while others can be used extensively for up to two or three weeks on a single charge. Consider your lifestyle and charging habits when evaluating this feature.

Furthermore, charging speed also matters; modern devices now mostly offer fast-charging capabilities that can provide several hours of use from just a few minutes of charging time.

Device Compatibility

Your smartwatches also need to work smoothly with your smartphone. Most smartwatches can support both Android and iOS platforms, although there are some features that may work better with specific operating systems.

Before purchasing, make sure you verify that the device fully supports your phone’s operating system version and that all the features advertised function as expected.

The companion app, which acts as the main interface for customization and data analysis, must also support this compatibility.

Design, Comfort, and Durability

Since you may likely wear this device throughout the whole day or night, how comfortable it is becomes very important. Consider the weight, strap material, and general ergonomics of the device.

Skin-friendly materials prevent irritation when worn for a longer time, particularly during sleep tracking.

Display quality also means a lot; AMOLED screens offer superior visibility in bright sunlight compared to the standard LCD displays.

Additionally, water and dust resistance ratings (such as IP67 or IP68) ensures that your device withstands everyday exposure to moisture and other environmental elements that can damage the device.

Top Smartwatches and Fitness Bands Under N100,000

After deep research into the Nigerian market, several devices stand out for their combination of features, reliability, and value within this price range. Each option highlighted here caters to different conditions and use cases, ensuring there is something suitable for every type of user.

Xiaomi Smart Band 9

The Xiaomi Smart Band 9 is the newest addition to one of the world’s most popular fitness tracker series. This device is a perfect balance between affordability and impressive functionality, making it the best choice for budget-conscious consumers who refuse to compromise on essential features.

The Smart Band 9 comes with improvements on everything that worked in the previous model, it comes with a bright, large 1.62-inch AMOLED display with a smooth 60Hz refresh rate that makes navigation very seamless.

The display brightness reaches as high as 1200 nits, ensuring clear visibility even under direct sunlight or in the night, an indispensable feature in Nigeria’s type of climate.

What truly differentiates this fitness band from others is its exceptional battery life. The 21-day battery life span allows users to forget about charging for weeks on a single charge, eliminating the anxiety of running out of power during important tracking periods.

The device supports over 150 sports modes, covering virtually every type of physical activity from running and cycling to swimming and football. With multiple color options and customizable straps, users can easily personalize their device to match different outfits and occasions.

Features: 

• Display: 62-inch AMOLED touch display with a resolution of 192×490 pixels and a peak brightness of up to 1200 nits.
• Design: Lightweight, aluminium pill-shaped
• Straps: Detachable TPU strap available in multiple colors, and adjustable from 135–215
• Durability: 5ATM water resistance, suitable for users who love swimming and showering, but not high-speed water sports or hot water.
• Health Monitoring: Continuous 24/7 monitoring for heart rate and blood oxygen (SpO2) with high and low heart rate alerts.
• Sleep Tracking: Sleep monitoring that tracks deep sleep, light sleep, and REM sleep, along with tips for improvement.
• Stress Tracking: It can monitor stress levels throughout the
• Workouts: Supports over 150 workout modes for tracking a wide variety of activities
• Price Range: N55,000 – N60,000

Xiaomi Smart Band 8 

For those who are looking for a slightly more affordable alternative to the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 while maintaining nice features, the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 offers the best value. This predecessor to the Band 9 also has an efficient performance and remains widely available in the Nigerian market.

The Band 8 comes with a 1.62-inch AMOLED display and weighs just 27 grams, making it light and comfortable for all-day wear.

The metallic frame comes in several colours such as graphite black and champagne gold, adding more aesthetic appeal to its functional design.

The main difference between this model and the Band 9 is that it offers less battery life and also has a lower screen brightness reach. Asides from this, it is almost identical to the Band 9 at a lesser price.

The fitness tracking features are very identical to those of its successor, with 24/7 heart rate monitoring, sleep analysis, stress tracking, and SpO₂ measurement. It comes with over 150 sports modes also, to ensure effective activity tracking regardless of your preferred exercise routine.

Features 

• Display: 62-inch AMOLED display with 192 x 490 resolution, 326 ppi, 60Hz refresh rate, and 600 nits peak brightness.
• Build: A metallic mid-frame to improve durability
• Straps: It comes with quick-release straps that allow users to easily switch between different designs and materials like leather, braided, or chain straps.
• Watch Faces: Offers over 200 watch faces with an option for an always-on
• All-day monitoring: Tracks heart rate, blood oxygen, and stress levels throughout the
• Sleep monitoring: Automatically records sleep duration and provides daily sleep quality
• Sports modes: It supports over 150 sports
• Heart rate alerts: Provides vibration alerts for abnormal heart
• Women’s health: The smartwatch can help to track menstrual cycles and predict
• Water resistance: 5ATM water resistance for shallow water activities like
• App compatibility: Connects to the Mi Fitness app for Android and iOS
• Battery: Up to 16 days of normal use, depending on
• Price: N46,000 – N55,000

Samsung Galaxy Fit 3

Samsung brings its well known quality and ecosystem integration to the affordable fitness band market with the Galaxy Fit 3. This device would suit users who already own other devices from Samsung like smartphones, although it works well with other Android devices too.

The Galaxy Fit 2 comes with a full-color AMOLED screen that makes it easy to glance at stats in direct sunlight, and the lightweight and comfortable design makes it almost unnoticeable on the wrist.

Water resistance is one of the major advantages of owning this device, with the device capable of withstanding full immersion of up to 50 meters deep.

This makes it more ideal for serious swimmers and water sports enthusiasts. The automatic workout detection intelligently recognizes and records your exercises without the need for manual input.

This smartwatch is well integrated with Samsung’s Health platform and provides very accurate fitness tracking, sleep pattern monitoring, and detailed calorie tracking. The device can display incoming notifications, allows viewing of calls, and also enables quick replies to messages directly from the wrist, keeping users connected without the need to constantly reach for their phones.

Battery life extends to 15 days under intensive use, and the device pairs particularly well with Samsung Galaxy smartphones for more improved functionality.

Features

• Display: It comes with a large 1.6-inch, high-resolution AMOLED touchscreen for clear visibility and smooth touch.
• Build: Aluminum body with a removable, soft silicone
• Durability: Features 5ATM and IP68 water resistance, making it very suitable for swimming, as well as dust resistance.
• Sensors: comes with an accelerometer, barometer, gyro sensor, optical heart rate sensor, and light sensor.
• Workout tracking: Supports around 101 workout modes, and can automatically detect common activities.
• Advanced health: Tracks heart rate, sleep patterns, and SpO2, and can also detect
• Fall detection: The smartwatch can detect falls and quickly contact emergency
• Connectivity: It uses Bluetooth for connecting to
• Notifications: Displays calls, messages, and app alerts from a paired
• Messaging: Allows you to reply to messages with pre-set quick replies
• Battery life: It can last up to 13 days on a single charge under intensive use, thanks to its 208mAh battery
• Price: N75,000 – N85,000

Huawei Band 8

The Band 8 is Huawei’s offering in the budget fitness band market. It comes with a stylish look, premium health features and extensive battery life to suit the needs of the average user. It is perfect for users who want a mix of aesthetics and function in their wearables.

The Band 8 offers a sharp 1.47-inch AMOLED screen that supports TruSleep 3.0 for in-depth sleep insights, and provides over 100+ workout modes.

TruSleep 3.0 is one of the most sophisticated sleep analysis systems available in this price range, offering very detailed insights into sleep stages, breathing quality, and personalized recommendations for improving sleep habits.

The device can go 2 weeks on a single charge under normal usage conditions, and Huawei’s fast-charging technology can turn just 5 minutes of charging to 2 full days of use. This quick-charge capability can be very valuable for users who forget to charge overnight or need fast power before extensive activities.

Features

• Ultra-thin and lightweight: Weighs only
• Screen: comes with a 47-inch display with vivid colors and sharp details.
• Display features: 194 x 368 resolution, 282 PPI, 5D Glass lens.
• Heart rate monitoring: Continuous 24/7 tracking with accurate
• Blood oxygen (SpO2) monitoring: Tracks oxygen saturation throughout the
• Tracking Features: For sleep tracking, it can provide scientific analysis including sleep structure, with sleep scores and tips. Can also monitor stress levels and offers various fitness tracking capabilities.
• Long battery life: Up to 14 days on a single charge under typical
• Fast charging: 5 minutes of charging provides up to two days of
• Bluetooth: Connects via Bluetooth 0.
• Notifications: Supports incoming call and message notifications, with quick replies for apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Messenger.
• Call handling: Can answer or reject incoming calls from the
• Water resistance: 5ATM, suitable for shallow water activities like swimming in a pool or the sea.
• Compatibility: Compatible with both Android and iOS
• Price: N80,000

Oraimo Watch 5 Lite

For consumers who are very budget-conscious, the Oraimo Watch 5 Lite delivers essential functionalities at an entry-level price range. Although it may lack some premium features, it covers the basics very effectively.

This device comes in large a 2.01-inch HD display that provides an ample screen size for viewing notifications and fitness data.

Battery life can extend to approximately 7 days with regular use, requiring weekly charging. The IP68 water resistance rating ensures that the device is durable and resistant to splashes and rain exposure.

For fitness tracking, it comes with basic features such as step counting, heart rate monitoring, sleep analysis, and calorie tracking.

Multiple sports modes allow tracking of various activities, although the selection is more limited compared to premium models. Smart notifications for calls, messages, and app alerts keeps users connected, and the device can pair easily with Android and iOS smartphones.

Features

• Heart Rate Monitor: Provides 24/7 heart rate monitoring and alerts for high heart
• Blood Oxygen Monitor: Tracks blood oxygen
• Stress Measurement: Monitors psychological stress
• Sleep Monitor: Tracks sleep
• Sports Modes: Supports over 105 sports modes, including running, cycling, and
• Wireless HD Calling: Allows users to make and receive calls directly from the device
• Message and Call Reminders: Sends notifications for important calls and
• Useful Gadgets: Includes a range of tools like an alarm clock, stopwatch, calculator, flashlight, and music control.
• AI-Generated Watch Faces: Offers a wide selection of over 120 customizable watch faces through the Oraimo Health App.
• Screen: Features a 01-inch TFT HD display for clear and vivid visuals.
• Water and Dust Resistance: Rated IP68 for resistance to dust and water splashes, though not recommended for swimming or other water sports.
• Battery Life: Offers up to 7 days of usage time and over 28 days of standby time on a single charge.
• Price: N16,900 – N19,000

Conclusion: Choosing the Right One for You 

Selecting the best smartwatch or fitness band mainly depends on your specific requirements, your lifestyle, and budget constraints. The devices discussed in this article are excellent options within the sub N100,000 category, each offering unique advantages for different user types.

For users prioritizing battery life above everything else, the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 or Band 8 give exceptional longevity, and can go for weeks of use before it needs charging.

Fitness enthusiasts who need accurate sports tracking will appreciate the extensive mode selections offered by Xiaomi and Huawei devices.

Those who are into the Samsung ecosystem will find the Galaxy Fit 3 more suitable for their daily needs with easy connectivity and improved features when paired with Samsung phones.

More budget-conscious consumers who want maximum value at an affordable price should consider the Oraimo Watch 5 Lite, which provides enough functionality for much smaller budgets.

Finally, remember that the best smartwatch or fitness band is not necessarily the most expensive or sophisticated option. Rather, it is the device that can perfectly suit your needs, and fits comfortably within your budget.

We vow to eat healthier, exercise more, learn a new skill, or take on challenging DIY projects.

However, as the initial enthusiasm wanes, some resolution may only fall by the wayside.

To enhance your chances of success, let’s delve into some common resolutions and explore key tips that will empower you.

This includes setting clear and achievable goals and utilising tools that will equip you for the journey towards achieving those aspirations.

1. Enhancing physical wellbeing 

Losing weight or improving fitness often requires a lot of different things working together. To support your efforts, consider utilising tools such as smartwatches to track progress, resistance bands for strength training, and cardio equipment like an exercise bike or treadmill. For home workouts, invest in dumbbells, kettlebells, and a yoga mat.

A food scale can aid in portion control. You can also stay motivated by wearing nice workout clothes that makes exercise more fun. 

These products are all available on Temu, a direct-from-factory marketplace offering year-round deals to help you achieve your New Year’s resolutions.

2. Cultivating healthy eating habits

This often involves prioritising whole foods, minimising processed foods, and increasing fruit and vegetable consumption.

To simplify this journey, consider investing in helpful kitchen tools. A food processor can streamline meal prep, while an air fryer offers a healthier cooking alternative. A slow cooker is perfect for effortless and flavourful meals, and a vegetable spiraliser can make eating vegetables more enjoyable.

3. Prioritising stress reduction and wellness 

Prioritising wellness is crucial for overall well-being. To reduce stress and feel better, focus on mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga and spend time in nature. Improve your sleep habits.

Helpful tools include essential oil diffusers to create a calming atmosphere, weighted blankets for relaxation and comfort, stress balls to release tension and improve circulation, and noise-cancelling headphones to block out distractions.

4. Trying out a side hustle to diversify income

Becoming a social media content curator, for example,  is a rewarding pursuit in Nigeria, however it requires careful planning and execution. Defining your niche and identifying reliable sources of content are crucial first steps.

A strong technological foundation is essential for success. This includes a reliable computer or mobile device, a stable internet connection, and specialised software for editing (video, audio, and image).

Investing in affordable high-quality recording equipment, such as cameras, is crucial for capturing professional-looking content, while good lighting is essential to enhance its visual appeal.

5. Strengthening personal relationships 

This is a valuable resolution that can enhance our well-being and strengthen our relationships. In today’s busy world, it’s easy to let the demands of daily life overshadow meaningful connections.

To make this resolution a reality, consider scheduling regular family dinners, planning weekend outings, or dedicating specific times for uninterrupted conversations. Remember that quality time is key; put away distractions and truly engage with your loved ones.

6. Contributing to the community through volunteering 

Volunteering your time to a cause you believe in is a rewarding way to make a difference in your community and the world.

Find a cause that resonates with you and explore opportunities within your local area. Start small and gradually increase your commitment.

Remember that volunteering is a two-way street; it not only benefits the organisation but also provides you with a sense of purpose and fulfilment.

Consistency and adaptability are key to achieving your New Year’s resolutions. Celebrate your successes, be patient with yourself, and don’t hesitate to adjust your approach when needed.

Platforms like Temu can be invaluable allies, offering a wide range of affordable products to support your goals.

From fitness equipment to kitchen essentials, Temu can effectively equip you without straining your budget. 

We wish you accomplish your New Year’s Resolutions!

[Featured Image Credit]

With the new Wear OS app, WhatsApp users can now conveniently initiate conversations, respond to messages, and even make voice calls without needing to have their smartphones nearby. This development marks a significant step forward in the accessibility and usability of WhatsApp, as users can now enjoy its functionalities directly from their smartwatches.

The app is compatible with smartwatches running Wear OS 3, Google’s latest version of its smartwatch operating system. This ensures seamless integration and optimal performance for users who own devices powered by Wear OS. 

By enabling users to send and receive text and voice messages, as well as emojis and quick replies, directly from their wrists, WhatsApp is catering to the increasing demand for smartwatch-centric communication experiences.

While WhatsApp’s availability on Wear OS brings exciting possibilities, it’s worth noting that Apple’s watchOS, the operating system for the Apple Watch, currently lacks a dedicated WhatsApp app. Apple Watch users have limited functionality in terms of sending messages or making WhatsApp calls directly from their devices. 

However, they can still view incoming messages and respond to them via the watch’s screen, provided they have configured the appropriate notification settings on their iPhones. Despite this limitation, Apple Watch remains a dominant force in the overall smartwatch market.

Google’s push to enhance Wear OS and compete with Apple’s smartwatch ecosystem has been ongoing. The company has made efforts to attract new manufacturers, introduce new apps, and deliver improved experiences to users. 

In fact, Google declared Wear OS as the fastest-growing smartwatch platform globally during its I/O conference, highlighting the remarkable progress achieved since the release of Wear OS 3 in 2021. Google’s conference showcased updates and enhancements to other third-party apps like Spotify and Peloton, as well as Google’s own apps such as Google Home, Gmail, and Calendar, offering an enhanced experience for Wear OS-based smartwatch users.

The addition of WhatsApp’s standalone app further strengthens Wear OS’s appeal and contributes to its continued growth in the competitive smartwatch market.

As the adoption of smartwatches continues to rise, WhatsApp’s availability on Wear OS provides users with greater flexibility and convenience in staying connected. With this latest development, WhatsApp and Wear OS users can look forward to seamless communication experiences right from their wrists, solidifying the position of both platforms as leaders in their respective domains.