Changing the time display on a cheap smart watch is easier than you think. This guide walks you through every step, from syncing with your phone to adjusting settings directly on the watch. No tech expertise required—just follow along!
Key Takeaways
- Most cheap smart watches sync time automatically via Bluetooth. Ensure your phone’s time is correct for accurate updates.
- Manual time setting is possible on many budget models. Look for “Time” or “Clock” in the settings menu.
- Use the companion app for advanced customization. Apps like Da Fit, Wearfit, or VeryFit often offer more control.
- Always restart your watch after changing settings. This ensures changes take effect properly.
- Check for firmware updates. Updated software can fix time-syncing bugs and improve functionality.
- 12-hour vs. 24-hour format is adjustable. Choose your preferred style in the time settings.
- Troubleshoot with a factory reset if needed. This should be a last resort but can resolve stubborn issues.
How to Change Time Display on Cheap Smart Watch
So you’ve got yourself a shiny new (or not-so-new) budget smart watch—maybe it was a gift, a deal you couldn’t resist, or just a practical upgrade from your old analog timepiece. But now you’ve noticed something: the time is off. Maybe it’s five minutes behind, stuck in military time when you prefer AM/PM, or just plain wrong. Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Many users of affordable smart watches face this exact issue. The good news? Fixing the time display on a cheap smart watch is usually quick, easy, and doesn’t require any special tools or tech know-how.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every method to change the time display on your budget-friendly wearable. Whether your watch connects to your phone via Bluetooth, has a touchscreen interface, or uses physical buttons, we’ve got you covered. You’ll learn how to sync time automatically, manually adjust the clock, customize the format (12-hour or 24-hour), and even troubleshoot common problems. By the end, your smart watch will show the correct time—and look exactly how you want it to.
Understanding How Cheap Smart Watches Handle Time
Before diving into the steps, it helps to understand why your smart watch might be showing the wrong time in the first place. Most budget smart watches—like those from brands such as Letsfit, Amazfit (basic models), Haylou, or generic AliExpress finds—are designed to sync their internal clocks with your smartphone. This means the watch pulls the current time from your phone over Bluetooth. It’s efficient, low-power, and keeps things accurate… most of the time.
Visual guide about How to Change Time Displayon Cheap Smart Watch
Image source: thewearify.com
However, several factors can disrupt this sync:
- Bluetooth disconnection: If your watch loses connection to your phone for an extended period, it may fall back to its last known time—or worse, stop updating altogether.
- Phone time inaccuracies: If your smartphone’s clock is wrong (maybe you manually set it once and forgot), your watch will mirror that error.
- Time zone confusion: Traveling across time zones without updating settings can throw off your watch’s display.
- Software glitches: Budget watches often run simplified operating systems that can occasionally freeze or misread settings.
Knowing this helps you choose the right fix. Sometimes, all you need is a quick reconnect. Other times, you’ll need to dig into settings. Let’s explore both paths.
Method 1: Sync Time Automatically via Bluetooth
The easiest and most reliable way to ensure your cheap smart watch shows the correct time is to let it sync automatically with your phone. This method works for the vast majority of budget models and requires minimal effort.
Step 1: Check Your Phone’s Time Settings
Your smart watch relies on your phone’s clock, so start there. On iPhone, go to Settings > General > Date & Time and make sure “Set Automatically” is turned on. On Android, navigate to Settings > System > Date & Time and enable “Automatic date & time.” This ensures your phone pulls the correct time from network servers.
Step 2: Reconnect Your Smart Watch
Open the companion app that came with your watch (common ones include Da Fit, Wearfit, VeryFit Pro, or FitCloud). Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone. In the app, look for a “Device” or “My Watch” section and tap to reconnect. Some apps will prompt you to sync data—select “Sync Now” or similar.
Step 3: Wait for Sync Completion
Give it 10–30 seconds. Most watches will update their time within this window. You’ll often see a small notification on the watch screen (like “Sync Complete”) or the time will visibly change.
Pro Tip: If your watch has a “Sync” button on the main menu (sometimes labeled with a circular arrow icon), tap it directly on the watch face after reconnecting. This forces an immediate time update.
Method 2: Manually Set the Time on Your Watch
Not all cheap smart watches support automatic syncing—or maybe your phone is offline, broken, or you just prefer manual control. Fortunately, many budget models allow you to set the time directly on the device.
Step 1: Access the Settings Menu
Swipe down or up on your watch screen to open the quick settings panel. Look for a gear icon (⚙️) labeled “Settings.” Tap it. If there’s no swipe gesture, try pressing the side button once to enter the main menu, then scroll to “Settings.”
Step 2: Find the Time or Clock Option
Inside Settings, look for options like:
- “Time”
- “Clock”
- “Date & Time”
- “System Time”
Tap on it. Some watches group this under “Display” or “General.”
Step 3: Adjust the Time and Format
You’ll typically see two adjustable fields: Hour/Minute and Time Format (12-hour or 24-hour). Use the +/- buttons or swipe gestures to set the correct time. For the format, toggle between “AM/PM” and “24H.”
Example: If it’s 3:15 PM and you prefer standard time, set the hour to 3, minute to 15, and select “12H.” If you’re in Europe or prefer military time, choose “24H” and set it to 15:15.
Step 4: Save and Exit
Look for a “Save,” “Confirm,” or checkmark icon. Tap it. Then exit the menu. Your watch should now display the updated time.
Note: On some ultra-basic models, you may need to long-press the side button to enter time-setting mode. Refer to your user manual if available—but don’t worry if you don’t have one; most interfaces are intuitive.
Method 3: Use the Companion App for Advanced Control
Many cheap smart watches come with a free app that unlocks extra features—including precise time management. These apps often provide a more user-friendly interface than the tiny watch screen.
Step 1: Install and Open the App
Download the official app for your watch model. Common names include:
- Da Fit (for Letsfit, U8, and similar)
- Wearfit (for Haylou, Tinwoo)
- VeryFit Pro (for many generic fitness bands)
- FitCloud (for newer budget models)
Open the app and ensure your watch is connected via Bluetooth.
Step 2: Navigate to Device Settings
Tap on your watch’s name or avatar in the app. Look for a section like “Device Settings,” “Watch Face,” or “System.”
Step 3: Locate Time or Clock Options
Within device settings, find “Time Settings,” “Clock Style,” or “Date & Time.” Here, you can usually:
- Toggle automatic sync on/off
- Manually input the correct time
- Switch between 12-hour and 24-hour formats
- Set time zone (important if traveling)
Step 4: Apply Changes
After making adjustments, tap “Save” or “Sync to Watch.” The app will send the new settings to your device. Wait a moment for confirmation.
Bonus Feature: Some apps let you customize the entire watch face—including where the time appears, font style, and color. While not directly related to accuracy, this lets you personalize your display while ensuring the time is correct.
Method 4: Update Firmware for Better Time Sync
If your watch consistently shows the wrong time—even after syncing—it might be running outdated firmware. Manufacturers often release updates that fix bugs, improve Bluetooth stability, and enhance timekeeping.
Step 1: Check for Updates in the App
Open your companion app and go to the device page. Look for “Firmware Update,” “System Update,” or a cloud icon with an arrow. Tap it.
Step 2: Download and Install
If an update is available, follow the on-screen prompts. Make sure your watch is charged (at least 50%) and stays near your phone during the process. Updates usually take 2–5 minutes.
Step 3: Restart and Re-sync
After updating, restart your watch (hold the side button until you see a reboot option). Then reconnect and sync time again.
Warning: Never interrupt a firmware update—it can brick your device. Only update over a stable Wi-Fi connection.
Troubleshooting Common Time Display Issues
Even with the best methods, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix the most frequent problems.
Issue 1: Time Won’t Change After Sync
Solution: Force-close the companion app, restart both your phone and watch, then reconnect. Sometimes cached data prevents updates.
Issue 2: Watch Shows Wrong Time Zone
Solution: In your phone’s settings, ensure “Automatic time zone” is enabled. If traveling, manually select the correct zone in the watch app under “Location” or “Time Zone.”
Issue 3: Time Drifts Over Time (e.g., Loses Minutes Daily)
Solution: This indicates a hardware or software flaw. Try a factory reset (see below). If the problem persists, contact the seller—some budget watches have poor internal oscillators.
Issue 4: No Time Setting Option on Watch
Solution: Your model may only support automatic sync. Double-check the app settings. If unavailable, consider using your phone as the primary time source and accept minor delays.
Issue 5: Watch Freezes on Time Screen
Solution: Perform a hard reset. Usually, this means holding the side button for 10–15 seconds until the screen turns off and restarts.
How to Perform a Factory Reset (Last Resort)
If nothing else works, a factory reset can restore default settings—including proper time sync. Warning: This erases all data (steps, sleep logs, etc.), so back up if possible.
Step 1: Access Reset Option
In the watch’s Settings menu, scroll to “System” or “Reset.” Look for “Factory Reset,” “Restore Defaults,” or “Wipe Data.”
Step 2: Confirm Reset
Tap it and confirm when prompted. The watch will restart and return to its out-of-box state.
Step 3: Re-pair with Phone
Open the companion app, remove the old device listing, and pair your watch as if it were new. Sync time immediately.
Alternative: Some watches reset by holding both side buttons for 10 seconds. Check online forums for your specific model if the menu method fails.
Tips for Maintaining Accurate Time on Budget Smart Watches
Once your time is correct, keep it that way with these habits:
- Keep Bluetooth on: Even if you don’t use notifications, Bluetooth maintains time sync.
- Charge regularly: A dead battery can reset the internal clock.
- Update the app: App updates often include sync improvements.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: Heat or cold can affect internal components.
- Re-sync weekly: Make it a habit to open the app and tap “Sync” every Sunday.
Conclusion
Changing the time display on a cheap smart watch doesn’t have to be frustrating. Whether you rely on automatic Bluetooth syncing, manual input, or the companion app, there’s a solution that fits your lifestyle and device. Remember: most issues stem from simple oversights—like a disconnected phone or outdated app—not hardware failure.
By following the steps in this guide, you’ll not only fix the current time discrepancy but also build confidence in managing your wearable tech. And hey, once your watch shows the right time, you can finally stop blaming it for being “late” to everything!
So go ahead—tap that settings menu, reconnect that Bluetooth, and enjoy your perfectly timed, budget-friendly smart watch. You’ve earned it.