I'm not a big fan of smartphones, and it seems like more people are opting out of them lately, going for classic brick phones instead. I'm considering getting a fitness tracker to help with health monitoring, but I know it requires an app. I'm really not a fan of Apple products, and I don't plan to use a smartphone as my main device. Should I go for a budget smartphone without a SIM card or maybe a cheap tablet? I'm curious about what others are using if they only need a few apps but don't want to be constantly connected. I've also thought about e-readers like Kindles or Kobos for reading, but I'm not sure if they can support apps. Any advice?
4 Answers
I’ve tried both methods! Using an old smartphone without a SIM is great for apps, and I have a cheap mini tablet for reading and other random tasks. Both can connect to Wi-Fi, and you can use them with a valid Gmail account to access the app store.
If I were you, I'd pick a tablet over an old smartphone. As long as you have Wi-Fi, you’ll be able to use your fitness tracker and do things like watch videos or read eBooks. That larger screen definitely makes a difference when you’re reading or streaming.
That makes sense! A tablet would be more comfortable for all that.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly phone, check out the Motorola G series, especially the G 2024 or 2025 models. They cost around $120-170, which is a decent price for a modern device. They come with good storage and work perfectly fine over Wi-Fi without a SIM card, but keep in mind that tracking might not be as effective if you’re out without cellular service.
You can put some apps on eReaders, but they aren’t usually very reliable, especially if it's an e-ink one. If you want a fitness tracker, going with an old phone or tablet is a solid choice. I have a standard heart rate monitor and I keep track of my runs manually, like noting duration and distance—it's an old-school method that works just fine for me. If you're just tracking general health data, there are plenty of trackers available that don’t need an app.
Thanks! I'm considering one that tracks sleep and heart health beyond just exercise.

Thanks for the tips!