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I used this $170 smartwatch as my virtual training coach to help me avoid injuries

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Why This Matters

The Amazfit Active 3 Premium offers a cost-effective yet feature-rich option for runners and fitness enthusiasts, combining high-quality materials with advanced metrics and training plans. Its affordability and comprehensive capabilities make it a compelling choice in the competitive smartwatch market, especially for those seeking a dedicated fitness companion. This development underscores the industry's focus on blending durability, functionality, and affordability to meet diverse consumer needs.

Key Takeaways

Amazfit Active 3 Premium 3.5 / 5 Good pros and cons Pros High quality sapphire glass and stainless steel materials

Advanced running metrics

Available free running workouts and Zepp Coach training plans

Brilliant 3,000-nit AMOLED display Cons Single band GPS

4GB storage limits offline maps

Shorter battery life than most Amazfit watches $169.99 at Amazon

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With last year's Amazfit Active 2, I was able to train with a very small watch priced just under $100. This year's Amazfit Active 3 Premium improves upon that model in several ways, making it a nearly perfect sports watch for runners beginning their journey. It's also great for anyone seeking a smaller, high-quality smartwatch that supports a wide range of other activities.

Also: The best cheap smartwatches of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

In early 2025, Amazfit released the Active Max, priced at exactly the same $170 as the Active 3 Premium. The Active Max is 3mm wider across the face, has a basic two-button design, and uses mineral glass. The Active 3 Premium uses sapphire glass and has a larger battery with twice the battery life of the Active 3 Premium. The Active 3 Premium has a few more metrics for runners with a size perfect for everyone.

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