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How to Buy a Smartwatch for Less

How to · Tech

How to Buy a Smartwatch for Less

Skip the launch day hype and use a simple payment plan to grab last year’s best fitness tracker for cheap.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $400 before anything else
Across the 0% window $22.22/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $400 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A good fitness smartwatch should track your heart, map your runs, and last at least three to four years. Don't fall for the annual upgrade trap. September is the magic window because tech companies launch their newest watches, which immediately triggers deep discounts on the previous year's models.

Last year's model still has almost all the features you actually use, but at a fraction of the cost. We can grab one for about $400 and split the bill over a year and a half without paying a dime in interest.

Keep in mind that 0% interest is a ticking clock, not a discount. If you still have a balance on your card after the 18-month window closes, the regular variable APR will hit your remaining balance, erasing all your savings.

The steps

  1. 01

    Wait for the September drop

    Timing is everything here. When the brand-new watches launch in September, retailers scramble to clear out last year's inventory. That is your cue to buy the older model at its lowest price.

  2. 02

    Choose your core features

    Decide if you actually need cellular data or if GPS is enough. Skip the titanium cases and fancy bands that drive up the price. Stick to the aluminum base model to keep your cost around $400.

  3. 03

    Secure your financing

    The Citi Simplicity® Credit Card gives you 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This lets you avoid paying the full $400 upfront while keeping your cash in your bank account.

  4. 04

    Do the math

    Divide the $400 cost by your 18-month window. You need to pay exactly $22.22 per month to clear the debt before the interest kicks in. Set up autopay for this amount immediately.

  5. 05

    Skip the extended warranty

    Retailers will try to upsell you on protection plans at checkout. Skip them. Most credit cards already extend the manufacturer's warranty for an extra year anyway, saving you another $50.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Is last year's smartwatch model actually worth buying?

Yes, tech updates are mostly minor tweaks now. Last year's model will easily handle your workouts and notifications, and it will receive software updates for years to come.

Should I pay extra for the cellular version?

Probably not. Unless you regularly run without your phone and absolutely need to take calls, the standard GPS version is cheaper and saves you a monthly carrier fee.

What happens if I miss a payment on this plan?

You might lose your promotional rate, and you will definitely get hit with a late fee. Setting up autopay for $22.22 a month protects your score and your wallet.

Can I get this deal directly from the manufacturer?

Usually, yes, but third-party retailers like Best Buy or Amazon often drop prices even lower than the official store to clear their shelves in September.