Design and Display: Bigger vs. Sharper on the Wrist
Both the CMF Watch 3 Pro and DTG9 aim to look far pricier than they are, but they take different approaches. The CMF Watch 3 Pro uses a 47 mm case and weighs just 51 g, pairing it with soft liquid silicone straps on standard 22 mm pins for easy swapping. Brushed metal detailing around the rotating crown gives it a premium feel, while the 1.43-inch 466 x 466 AMOLED display runs at 60 Hz for silky scrolling and remains clear even under harsh sunlight, thanks to a peak brightness of 670 nits. The DTG9 opts for a slightly more compact 1.32-inch AMOLED screen that emphasizes vibrant colors and deep blacks. It also supports an always-on display mode, making at-a-glance checking easy. For users who prioritize a larger canvas and smoother animations, the CMF pulls ahead; those chasing punchy contrast may lean toward the DTG9.
Health and Fitness Tracking: Depth vs. Versatility
As a budget fitness smartwatch, the CMF Watch 3 Pro focuses on nailing the fundamentals and then some. It offers continuous heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen (SpO2) readings, stress tracking, sleep staging with clear charts, and a built-in period tracker. With over 130 sports modes and dual-band GPS that can auto-detect when you start or end an exercise, it’s tailored to everyone from casual joggers to serious athletes. The DTG9 counters with its own advanced health toolkit: continuous heart rate tracking, SpO2 monitoring, detailed sleep analysis across deep, light, and REM stages, plus breathing training to help manage stress. Its multi-sport modes cover running, cycling, swimming, and outdoor activities, supported by altitude and barometric pressure sensors and a built-in compass. If you crave sheer variety and auto exercise detection, the CMF stands out; for outdoor explorers needing navigation and elevation data, the DTG9 offers a compelling mix.
GPS, Smart Features, and Everyday Use
For an affordable smartwatch under 100, both models deliver surprisingly capable smart and navigation features. The CMF Watch 3 Pro integrates dual-band GPS for more accurate route tracking, particularly useful for runners and cyclists who care about precise pacing and distance. It also supports Bluetooth calls with AI noise reduction, using a built-in microphone and speaker to keep conversations clear when your phone stays in your pocket. The DTG9 also includes built-in GPS but goes a step further with offline maps, letting you navigate unfamiliar routes without data or Wi‑Fi. This is reinforced by its compass and environmental sensors, making it appealing for hikers and trekkers. The DTG9’s Bluetooth calling capability similarly enables hands-free calls during workouts or commutes. For city runners and everyday fitness tracking, CMF’s GPS and call features are more than enough; adventure-focused users may appreciate the DTG9’s navigation-first approach.
Battery Life and Value: Where CMF Pulls Ahead
Smartwatch battery life often makes or breaks the user experience, and this is where the CMF Watch 3 Pro clearly stakes its claim as a best cheap smartwatch. Its 350 mAh battery is rated for up to 13 days on a single charge, with heavy users still seeing around 10 days of real-world use. Even with the always-on display enabled, it manages roughly 4–5 days between charges, and it tops up in about 100 minutes. The DTG9 promises long battery life through efficient power management, sufficient for multi-day use and extended outdoor trips, though exact figures are not specified. On price, the CMF Watch 3 Pro is particularly aggressive at USD 69 (approx. RM320), undercutting many rivals in the budget fitness smartwatch space. For buyers obsessed with fewer charges and a clear value proposition, the CMF offers one of the strongest packages currently available.
Which Budget Fitness Smartwatch Should You Buy?
Choosing the best affordable smartwatch under 100 comes down to how you train and what you value daily. The CMF Watch 3 Pro delivers a larger, smoother AMOLED display, extensive health tracking with over 130 sports modes, dual-band GPS, and standout smartwatch battery life, all at a very aggressive price point. It suits users who want a reliable, low-maintenance fitness companion that looks premium and minimizes charging anxiety. The DTG9, meanwhile, leans into its role as a comprehensive smart companion: a vibrant AMOLED screen, multi-sport tracking, built-in GPS with offline maps, environmental sensors, and Bluetooth calling create a strong all-round package for outdoor explorers and everyday users alike. If you prioritize endurance, variety of workouts, and pricing transparency, CMF has the edge. If navigation tools and environmental awareness matter more, the DTG9 becomes the more attractive budget fitness smartwatch.
