TOP 34 Best Fitness Trackers & Activity Bands Reviewed 2024

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34 Best Fitness Trackers, Wearables & Top Rated Activity Bands Reviewed 2024

You asked, (or googled) and you shall receive!

I created this comprehensive collection of 34 of the best fitness tracker reviews so you can find the perfect fitness tracker for your needs.

All of the best activity tracker brands are represented, including the most popular Garmin fitness trackers, the hottest Fitbit activity trackers, plus we have Polar, Samsung, Suunto, Apple and Gymwatch brands included.

I don’t want to waste your time, so let’s get to it!

TOP 34 Best Activity and Fitness Trackers 2024

Fitbit Versa 2 Smartwatch

Fitbit Versa 2 Health and Fitness Smartwatch with Heart Rate, Music, Alexa Built-In, Sleep and Swim Tracking, Petal/Copper Rose, One Size (S and L Bands Included)
  • Use amazon Alexa built in to get quick news and information, check the weather, set timers and alarms, control your smart home devices through the sound of your voice (third party app may be required; amazon Alexa not available in all countries)
  • Based on your heart rate, time asleep and restlessness, sleep score helps you better understand your sleep quality each night. Also track your time in light, deep and REM sleep stages and get personal insights
  • Get a 30-day free trial of the Fitbit Premium to help you stay active, sleep well and manage stress. Unlock it all in the Fitbit app. (Cancel before free trial ends to avoid subscription fees. Offer valid for new Premium users only)
  • With a larger display and an always on option, your information?s always a quick glance away (always on display requires more frequent charging)
  • Play your favorite songs and playlists with Spotify app controls on your wrist. Also make secure purchases with Fitbit Pay and get called, text and smartphone app notifications.

Review: The Fitbit Versa 2, released in 2024, offers exciting new features like Amazon’s Alexa, a voice-activated personal assistant of sorts. Alexa can tell you the weather, search the web, set alarms and more, and all you have to do is ask.

The new Versa 2 is decidedly health focused. The Versa 2 tracks sleep data and gives you a sleep score so you can improve your sleeping habits. It can also track your heart rate and other standard fitness data you expect from a fitness tracker.

Another feature you may like is this Fitbit has an “always on” feature so you can see your data with a quick glance without fiddling with the watch.

  • Award Star: The health focused superstar
  • Battery Life: 5 days (less in “always on” mode)
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • It can be used with Amazon’s Alexa for hands-free data retrieval and alarm setting.
  • Works with the most popular music apps.
  • Works with both android and iPhone.
  • New “always on feature” see data at a glance.

Cons

  • No built-in GPS.

Takeaway

Best fitness tracker of 2024 for everyday wear and health tracking.

Fitbit Inspire HR Fitness Tracker

Sale
Fitbit Inspire HR Heart Rate and Fitness Tracker, One Size (S and L Bands Included), 1 Count
  • Utilize 24x7 heart rate to accurately track calorie burn, resting heart rate & heart rate zones during workouts
  • Track all day activity, including steps, distance, hourly activity, active minutes and calories burned. The Fitbit inspire band is made of a flexible, durable elastomer material similar to that used in many sport watches, and fastens with a peg and loop
  • Automatically track sleep plus due to the heart rate feature and get more insights into your light & deep sleep stages
  • Enjoy up to 5 days of battery for daily progress without constant charging. Varies with use and other factors. Charge time (0 to 100 percent): 2 hours
  • Automatically and conveniently record workouts like walks, swimming & bike rides in a snap with smart track. Stores heart rate data at 1 second intervals during exercise tracking and at 5 second intervals all other times

Review: The Fitbit Inspire HR is new for 2024. It is a simple, sleek tracker for under 100 dollars. While it does not have GPS, it does track the essentials like steps and sleep data.

The HR version of the Inspire also tracks heart rate, not bad for a tracker under 100 dollars.

It is also shower and swim safe, this waterproof tracker can be used in depths up to 50 meters.

  • Award Star: Under 100 dollars with HR monitor
  • Battery Life: 5 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Waterproof up to 50M.
  • HR monitor built-in.
  • It can be paired with your phone for call, text and calendar alerts.

Cons

  • No GPS built-in, but can be used with your smartphone GPS.

Takeaway

Best fitness tracker for 2024 with HR monitor for under 100 dollars.

Garmin Fenix 5

Garmin fēnix 5, Premium and Rugged Multisport GPS Smartwatch, Black with Black Band (Renewed)
  • Refurbished Premium multi sport GPS watch with Elevate wrist heart rate technology; Display size is 1.2 inch diameter
  • Fit for adventure with rugged design that Features stainless Steel bezel, buttons and rear case; Strap material: silicone, suede or steel
  • Put key stats at your fingertips with the performance widget that shows the effects and progress of your workouts
  • Connected Features include smart notifications, automatic uploads to Garmin connect online fitness community and personalization through free watch faces and apps from our connect iq store
  • Outdoor sensors, including GPS and GLONASS satellite reception and 3 axis compass with gyroscope and Barometric altimeter

Review: The Garmin Fenix 5 is a first-rate GPS smartwatch with built-in heart rate monitor. This Garmin uses HR data to calculate calories burned and workout intensity.

This tracker goes beyond GPS by incorporating GLONASS satellite reception to track virtually anywhere.

Training status, anaerobic training effect and training load are specialized metrics you will find on the Fenix 5 making it not only a great HR monitoring watch, but an excellent choice for performance athletes and is one of the best activity trackers with heart rate monitor.

  • Award Star: Superior metrics, analytics and GPS
  • Battery Life: 2 weeks in smartwatch mode, 24 hrs in GPS mode
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: Yes

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • GPS, compass with gyroscope and barometric altimeter.
  • Long battery life, pp to 2 weeks.
  • Receive emails, texts and call notifications.

Cons

  • Screen not as crisp and colorful as others.

Takeaway

Best fitness tracker with GPS, GLONASS and heart rate monitor for superior data.

Polar M430 GPS Running Watch

Polar M430 GPS Running Watch, White, Medium/Large
  • Optical heart RATE monitor - continuous, accurate heart RATE without a chest strap via a 6 LED optical sensor
  • Integrated GPS tracker - includes smart features for speed, distance, pace and route tracking. Thickness: 12 mm
  • 24/7 activity tracking - running watch track your daily activity, including steps, calories and sleep with the guidance to help you reach your activity Goal
  • Vibration alerts - be alerted with Vibrating Smart notifications of incoming calls, messages or during training and periods of inactivity
  • Rechargeable Battery - three different GPS recording options to choose from allow for 8 hours to nearly 30 hours of training time

Review: Built-in heart rate monitor, GPS and call, text and email notifications make the Polar M430 a solid choice.

The M430 sets itself apart from the M400 with all-new sleep tracking, advanced running metrics and optical heart rate sensor.

The optical heart rate sensor is one of the most accurate among fitness trackers, and it is offered at a reasonable price.

Plus it is lighter than the previous model M400 with improved battery life.

  • Award Star: Running, GPS and lifestyle tracker
  • Battery Life: Varies based on GPS usage from 24 hrs to 5 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: Yes

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Running index, training load and recovery status data.
  • Optical heart rate sensor.
  • Precise route, distance and speed tracking.

Cons

  • Oversized grainy black and white screen.

Takeaway

Reasonably priced fitness tracker with accurate heart rate and GPS data.

Fitbit Versa Smartwatch

Sale
Fitbit Versa Smart Watch, Black/Black Aluminium, One Size (S & L Bands Included)
  • Includes all Versa Lite Edition features plus: store and play 300 plus songs, utilize on screen workouts that play on your wrist and coach you through every move and track swim laps and floors climbed
  • Track your all day activity, 24/7 heart rate, & sleep stages, all with a 4 plus day battery life (varies with use and other factors), charge time (0 to 100 percent): two hours. Slim, comfortable design with a lightweight, anodized aluminum watch body
  • Use 15 plus exercise modes like run or swim (Fitbit versa is water resistant to 50 meters, we do not recommend wearing charge 3 in a hot tub or sauna.) To record workouts and connect to Smartphone GPS for more precise real time pace & distance
  • Access your favorite apps for sports, weather & more and get called, calendar, text, and app alerts. Syncing range - up to 30 feet
  • Get call, text, calendar and smartphone app notifications when your phone is nearby. Plus send quick replies on android only. Operating temperature 10 to 60 degrees celsius

Review: It has almost everything Fitbit’s first smartwatch, the Iconic, does, except the Versa does not have built-in GPS and it has a 4 day battery live vs. the Iconic which has 5.

The Versa is also missing the Iconic’s higher price tag. The Versa is about 2/3 the price of the Iconic, making it a great deal.

The Versa makes a great fitness tracker for women because it has a slimmer profile, it includes female health-tracking, Fitbits relax meditation and mindfulness feature, and stores music so you can listen without having to bring your phone along.

For a complete list of the best activity trackers for women, check out my article of the top activity and fitness trackers for women.

  • Award Star: Affordable, full featured smart watch
  • Battery Life: 4 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • First watch to include Fitbit’s Female Health tracker.
  • Includes Fitbit’s relax breathing and Mindfulness feature.
  • Download music for phone – free access.

Cons

  • Cannot reply to texts.

Takeaway

Best activity tracker for women with music storage and female health tracking.

Motiv Ring Fitness Tracker

Motiv Ring - Fitness, Sleep and Heart Rate Tracker - Waterproof Activity and HR Monitor - Calorie and Step Counter - Pedometer
  • YOU 1ST GET A SIZING SET TO FIND YOUR SIZE; RING SENT ONCE YOU SELECT SIZE/COLOR, SHIPPING INCLUDED
  • 24/7 Smart Ring: Track steps & distance, heart rate, activity, calories burned, sleep monitoring
  • Waterproof & Durable; Ultralight Titanium; USB Magnetic Charging Dock
  • 3-day battery life; charges in 90 minutes via included USB Charger
  • Works with Apple Health and Google Fit.

Review: This wearable ring is the only fitness tracker of its kind. It is the smallest activity tracker I know of that incorporates a HR monitor, which is pretty amazing considering its size.

This ring has no alarms or vibration, and provides all notifications via the Smartphone app. It’s a great fitness tracker wearable for those who want to know their basic lifestyle health metrics without wearing a clunky band or second watch.

It is easily one of the best wearable fitness trackers due to its inconspicuous character.

  • Award Star: Smallest HR monitor tracker
  • Battery Life: 3 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Inconspicuous wearable ring style tracker.
  • Tracks steps, HR, calories, activity and sleep.
  • Waterproof, shower safe.

Cons

  • No call or text notification.

Takeaway

The smallest fitness tracker ring wearable with heart rate data.

Fitbit Alta HR Fitness Tracker

Fitbit Alta HR, Black, Small (US Version)
  • Get the power of continuous heart rate in Fitbit's slimmest design yet-all day, during workouts and beyond
  • With heart rate, you can better measure calorie burn, and use zones (fat burn, cardio, and peak) to find the right workout intensity for your goals
  • See how working out more can improve your health by comparing your resting heart rate trends to your activity
  • With sleep stages powered by purpose heart rate, automatically track your time spent in light, deep and REM sleep and take steps toward a better night's rest
  • Automatically track your steps, distance, calories burned and active minutes with up to 7 days of battery life (varies with use and other factors)

Review: The Alta HR is the slimmest Fitbit band to include a heart rate monitor.

The Alta HR is one of the best looking fitness band style trackers and it has great battery life.

It has a stylish appearance, sleek black and white OLED screen, and a battery life that is days longer than others in its class. The Alta HR tracks sleep and exercise automatically, making it effortless to use.

  • Award Star: Slimmest HR monitor band
  • Battery Life: 7 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Heart rate data used to accurately track calories burned.
  • Automatically detects specific workout activity.
  • Automatically tracks sleep with stages.

Cons

  • Must move arms to count steps.

Takeaway

Fitbit’s slimmest fitness tracker band with a heart rate monitor.

Garmin Vívomove HR

Garmin vivomove HR, Hybrid Smartwatch for Men and Women, White/Rose Gold
  • Stay connected with smart features such as music controls and smart notifications for incoming calls, text messages, calendar reminders and more (when paired with a compatible smartphone)
  • Estimates heart rate with elevate wrist heart rate technology. Display size 0.38 x 0.76 inches (9.6 millimeter x 19.2 millimeter). Small/medium fits wrists with a circumference of 107 177 millimeter
  • Wellness monitoring tools, such as all day stress tracking and a relaxation timer, help you manage stress; Includes advanced sleep monitoring with REM sleep
  • Displays steps, calories, distance, heart rate, intensity minutes and VO2 max
  • Effortlessly change your look with industry standard 20 millimeter quick release accessory bands

Review: If you like the idea of disguising your activity tracker in the form of a sophisticated analog watch, the Garmin Vivomove HR may be the right fitness tracker for you.

It has an inconspicuous text display, classic round face and the wear-anywhere styling is perfect for someone who wants the benefits of activity tracking without the clunky utilitarian look of a fitness band.

This beautiful fitness tracker keeps tabs on your heart rate, offers wellness monitoring tools and tracks your sleep quality too.

  • Award Star: Incognito activity tracker
  • Battery Life: Up to 5 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • HR data used to calculate Vo2 Max, fitness age & workout intensity.
  • Includes all-day stress tracking feature.
  • Text and call notifications.

Cons

  • No GPS, not even tethered GPS.

Takeaway

Most stylish and best fitness tracker with heart rate monitor, that looks like a watch, not a band.

Fitbit Flex 2

Review: The Fitbit Flex 2 is a slim, discreet, water-resistant tracker that’s comfortable to wear all day, every day, and attractive enough to fit in anywhere you need to be.

Track advanced health and fitness metrics automatically and effortlessly with the Flex 2, which is 30% slimmer than the original Flex.

The Fitbit Flex 2 offer busy folks basic fitness data like steps, sleep tracking and total activity.

The Fitbit Flex 2 fits in at home, the office, an after-hours drink, the gym and wherever else you need to be without looking out of place.

  • Award Star: Well rounded & inconspicuous – the perfect fit!
  • Battery Life: Up to 5 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: No
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Safe for shower, pool or rain.
  • Automatic exercise and steps tracking.
  • Reminders to move when inactive.

Cons

  • No heart rate monitoring.
  • No screen.

Takeaway

Best everyday fitness tracker with a discreet, minimalist style.

Samsung Gear S2 Smartwatch

Samsung Gear S2 Smartwatch - Dark Gray
  • Send and receive texts, calendar notifications, news updates and more right on your wrist and Battery performance may vary depending on network conditions and configuration, and device usage
  • With rotating bezel and unique circular interface, easily access your apps and notifications.OS Tizen based wearable platform.Processor speed Dual core 1GHz exynos 3250
  • With a circular design and stainless steel construction, the Gear S2 matches your style
  • Thousands of third party apps available
  • Interchangeable bands and hundreds of available watch faces; Please refer the User Manual before use; It doesn't have speakers, hence use Level U bluetooth headphones to hear music

Review: The Samsung Gear S2 smartwatch is classy enough for the office and has customizable faces to fit your style. It looks like a well-designed watch, and is not large and overbearing.

The watch has an innovative and useful rotating bezel that allows you to effortlessly scroll through texts and apps, making a small screen very user-friendly.

The Samsung Gear S2 smartwatch is an attractive watch that has all the features and functions of a fitness tracker, plus it allows you to stay connected to text, email, social media and even has a voice to text feature so you can reply to messages.

  • Award Star: Practical revolving bezel navigation
  • Battery Life: 2 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • “S Health” app tracks calories, water, caffeine and more.
  • Reply to text messages with a voice to text feature.
  • Rotating bezel surrounds face to select apps and scroll.

Cons

  • Weak notification vibration, short battery life.

Takeaway

Best wearable fitness tracker, stylish and fits in at the office or gym equally.

Fitbit Charge 2

Sale
Fitbit Charge 2 Heart Rate + Fitness Wristband, Black, Large (US Version), 1 Count
  • PurePulse continuous, automatic wrist based heart rate tracking to better measure calorie burn all day
  • Maximize your workouts using simplified heart rate zones (Fat Burn, Cardio and Peak). Splash proof. Do not shower with the device or submerge it in water
  • See call, text and calendar notifications on the OLED display; Automatically track how long and how well you sleep and wake with a silent vibrating alarm. Reminders to move
  • Get a better understanding of your fitness level and see how you can improve over time with a personalized Cardio Fitness Score; Use Connected GPS during run mode to see real time stats like pace and distance on your wrist
  • Track all day activity like steps, distance, calories burned, floors climbed and active minutes; Find moments of calm throughout your day with personalized guided breathing sessions based on your heart rate, Like all heart rate tracking technologies, accuracy is affected by physiology, location of device, and different movements

Review: The Fitbit Charge 2 fitness wristband incorporates a heart rate monitor, automatically tracks exercise, reminds you to get up and move if it’s been a while, tracks sleep patterns and incorporates the Fitbit “Relax” feature giving you access to a brief guided breathing and relaxation sessions.

In addition to that, the Fitbit Charge 2 allows you to see call, text and calendar notifications and tracks sleep.

For the price, the Fitbit Charge 2 is a standout fitness band wearable. It is one of the best affordable activity trackers I can think of.

What more could you ask for?

  • Award Star: The wristband for a better you
  • Battery Life: 5 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Large screen, thick sturdy band.
  • Automatic exercise tracking.
  • Automatic sleep cycle/stages tracking.

Cons

  • Vibration notification is weak.

Takeaway

One of the best fitness trackers of 2024, discreet, simple and useful.

Fitbit Blaze

Fitbit Blaze Smart Fitness Watch with Time Display, Black, Silver, Small (5.5 - 6.7 inch) (US Version)
  • See simplified heart rate zones for quickly checking exercise intensity during workouts with PurePulse (continuous, wrist based heart rate monitoring (no uncomfortable chest strap required)
  • Use multi sport tracking to track runs, cardio, cross training, biking and more; Effortlessly and automatically record other workouts to your dashboard with SmartTrack
  • Enable connected GPS to map your routes and see run stats like pace and duration on display (when your phone is nearby)

Review: The Fitbit Blaze is one of Fitbit’s early forays into the smartwatch world. It is more stylish than many of Fitbits more sporty looking band-style fitness trackers.

It is compatible with the Fitbit Fitstar app, a subscription service that doles out short guided, on-screen workouts you follow using no extra equipment.

Not to mention, the screen is pretty nice. It is a high definition color screen that is touch-sensitive.

You can control your music and it automatically tracks exercise. It has an angular, metallic, old school watch look, which some people really love, and others, not so much.

  • Award Star: Affordable basic smartwatch
  • Battery Life: 5 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Large high Res color touch screen.
  • Use with Fitstar app guided workouts on-screen.
  • Built-in heart rate Monitor.

Cons

  • Not waterproof, cannot use in the shower.

Takeaway

Best wearable fitness tracker and stylish smartwatch in one.

Garmin Forerunner 935

Sale
Garmin 010-01746-00 Forerunner 935 Running GPS Unit (Black)
  • Premium GPS running/triathlon watch with wrist based heart rate; Strap material: Silicone; Smartphone compatibility: iPhone, Android, Windows.Control Method:Application.Special Feature:Smarter Connections.Water Resistant: Yes
  • Offers advanced running and multisport Features in a comfortable watch you can wear all day, and it only weighs 49 grams
  • Provides elevation changes with a built in barometer; altimeter and electronic compass help you keep your bearings
  • Evaluates your training status to indicate if you’re undertraining or overdoing it and offers additional performance monitoring Features
  • Provides advanced dynamics for running, cycling and swimming, including ground contact time balance, stride length and more. Bezel Material: Fiber reinforced polymer

Review: One of Garmin’s most popular fitness trackers, the Garmin Forerunner is the ideal tracker for runners.

Why?

It was designed with advanced dynamic running metrics. Not only can this watch tell you your speed, distance, and location precisely, but it also knows your stride length, vertical oscillation, vertical ratio, cadence and ground contact time.

The Garmin 935 is perhaps the most advanced GPS watch for running too because it uses GPS, GLONASS and satellite.

And that’s only naming a small fraction of data this watch collects. It truly is a masterpiece for the avid runner. This tracker also works well for cyclists, swimmers and triathletes too!).

  • Award Star: Best activity tracker for running
  • Battery Life: 2 weeks in watch mode, 24 hrs in GPS mode.
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: Yes

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Advanced running, training and recovery metrics.
  • Lightweight, 49 grams.
  • GPS, GLONASS satellite, barometer; altimeter and electronic compass for precise location stats.

Cons

  • No music controls or text reply options.

Takeaway

Best activity tracker for runners with robust running data.

Samsung Gear S3 Frontier

SAMSUNG Gear S3 Frontier Smartwatch Pedometer (Bluetooth), SM-R760NDAAXAR
  • A distinctive steel bezel that you can rotate to access apps and notifications, strap with buckle: 2.76 inches, large strap with holes: 5.12 inches, small strap with holes: 4.33 inches
  • Text, call and get notifications directly from your watch through your bluetooth connected smartwatch. Battery charging method - Wireless charging dock
  • Make payments with Samsung pay almost anywhere you swipe or tap a credit card; Battery type and Size: 380mAh Li ion
  • With military grade performance, the Gear S3 resists water, dust, extreme temperatures and the occasional drop; Typical usage: Up to 3 days
  • Compatible with Android and iOS smartphones (compatible with select Bluetooth capable smartphones using Android OS 4.4 and later with at least 1.5GB RAM as well as iPhone 5 and later with iOS 9.0 and above; Gear S3 supported smartphones may vary by carrier and device; For a list of compatible smartphones and features

Review: This amazing running watch has some great features geared towards runners, and it also has advanced tech features like text msg reply, making and receiving hands-free phone calls using the watch, Samsung pay feature so you can leave your wallet behind, and a rotating steel bezel to easily navigate the screen.

The Samsung Gear S3 Frontier is great for the runner who wants a well-rounded phone that performs as a smartphone and tracks runs well.

Running focused features include built-in GPS, tachymeter and built-in S health app.

The Samsung gear s3 is compatible with both android and iOS making it quite versatile. It is also water and dust resistant, making it a good fit for active lifestyles.

  • Award Star: Running/smartphone in one
  • Battery Life: 2-3 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: Yes

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Integrated heart rate monitor and GPS.
  • Leave phone and wallet behind while running with Samsung Pay and ability to make and take calls.
  • Includes a free year of Under Armour’s “Mapmyrun” app subscription.

Cons

  • Running metrics are not as robust as the Garmin Forerunner 935.

Takeaway

Most wearable, well-rounded, running focused fitness tracker.

Garmin Forerunner 35

Garmin 010-01689-00 Forerunner 35; Easy-to-Use GPS Running Watch, Black
  • Easy-to use GPS running watch tracks how far, how fast and where you run.Special Feature:Bluetooth.Water Resistant: Yes
  • Estimates heart rate at the wrist, all day and night, using Garmin elevate wrist heart rate technology
  • Connected features: Smart notifications, automatic uploads to Garmin Connect, live tracking and music controls (when paired with a compatible smartphone)
  • All-day activity tracking estimates steps, calories and intensity minutes and reminds you when to move
  • Automatically uploads your data to Garmin Connect, our free online fitness community where you can join challenges, receive insights and share your progress as you meet your goals

Review: If you looked at the Forerunner 935 and felt overwhelmed by the sheer amount of statistics available, and hefty price tag, this Forerunner 35 may be a better fit.

The Garmin Forerunner 35 has some basic but useful running features, at a price tag that is down to earth.

It tracks cadence, distance in real time, accurately maps your run thanks to the built-in GPS, and it even has a built-in heart rate monitor, all at a price that is one third the price of the Forerunner 935, making it one of the most affordable GPS running trackers on the market.

While it has nowhere near the amount of metrics the Forerunner 935 has it does have a small profile that looks good on smaller wrists.

For comparison:

The Forerunner 35 has only 3 built-in sensors, GPS, HR and accelerometer.

The Forerunner 935 has 8 sensors: GPS, GLONASS satellite reception, HR, barometric altimeter, compass, gyroscope, accelerometer and thermometer. It’s easy to see why there is a sizeable price difference between the two.

  • Award Star: Affordable GPS lifestyle & running tracker
  • Battery Life: 9 days in watch mode, 5 hours in GPS mode
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: Yes

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Tracks distance, pace, cadence and speed.
  • Tracks steps, calories burned and daily intensity minute totals.
  • Reminder to move is you have been sitting too long.

Cons

  • Must move your arms to count steps and track runs.

Takeaway

Affordable running fitness tracker with robust running focused data.

Suunto Ambit3 Run HR Monitor

SUUNTO Ambit3 Run Watch with Heartrate Monitor - One - Black
  • Speed and Distance
  • Distance Based Autolaps -
  • Log Recording Rate - 1, 10 s.
  • GPS Speed and Distance - Integrated.
  • Foot POD Support - Bluetooth Smart.

Review: Suunto is a Finnish company focused on the most cutting edge technology, making some of the best fitness trackers you can get.

I could write a book on all this running watch can do, but instead, I will point out just a few features ardent runners will appreciate.

This watch is perfect for trail runners with its trackback feature, and the Ghostrunner app has you run against a ghost with perfect pace as the watch displays your distance from the ghost.

Running performance level displayed on the phone combines your physical fitness and your running efficiency to help you manage fatigue on long-distance runs and find the proper pace during races.

The Suunto Ambit3 Run is only a few bucks more than the Forerunner 35, but the running data and metrics it provides are superior to the pricier Forerunner 935. The Suunto Ambit3 Run is really worth checking out.

The quality, price, and features make the watch practically impossible to beat.

I give it my only 5 out of 5 rating. If you are a data junkie and a serious runner, I insist you check this watch out!

  • Award Star: The best running watch. Period.
  • Battery Life: 2 weeks in watch mode, 15 hours in GPS mode
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: Yes

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Locates GPS signal with lightning speed.
  • Stats captured include pace, ave pace in real-time, cadence, stride length and more.
  • Allows for lap comparisons and measures running performance.

Cons

  • It’s complicated! If you are a techie, you will love it!

Takeaway

The most technical, advanced running fitness tracker on the market.

Garmin Instinct

Sale
Garmin Instinct, Rugged Outdoor Watch with GPS, Features Glonass and Galileo, Heart Rate Monitoring and 3-Axis Compass, Graphite
  • Rugged GPS watch built to withstand the toughest environments.Supported Application:Phone. . Wireless comm standard:Bluetooth
  • Constructed to U.S. Military standard 810G for thermal, shock and water resistance (rated to 100 meters)
  • Built in 3 axis compass and barometric altimeter, plus multiple global navigation satellite systems (GPS, Glonass and Galileo) support helps track in more challenging environments than GPS alone
  • Monitor your estimated heart rate, activity and stress; Train with preloaded activity profiles. Strap material: Silicone
  • Stay connected with smart notifications (with a compatible smartphone) and automatic data uploads to the Garmin connect online fitness community

Review: The Garmin Instinct is a great fitness tracker for all sports, and with the running dynamics pod, it is an awesome running fitness tracker.

This Garmin has three satellite systems, the GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo making it a great choice for long-distance or trail runners and hikers.

This rugged watch is built to take a beating and is shock, heat and water-resistant. Plus the Instinct has an excellent battery life of up to 14 days.

Looking for more of the best GPS running watches? We have the best GPS running watches reviewed right here.

  • Award Star: Robust outdoor sports tracker
  • Battery Life: 14 days as smartwatch; 15 hours in GPS mode
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: Yes

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Robust running data with running dynamics pod (pod sold separately).
  • Smart notifications allow you to receive notifications of text, email and social media.
  • Trackback feature allows you to find your starting point.

Cons

  • Needs more documentation on how to use the phone features.

Takeaway

Best running watch for trail runners, hikers and outdoor adventures!

Fitbit Flex

Fitbit Flex Wireless Activity + Sleep Wristband, Black, Pedometer, Small/Large
  • One syncs automatically and wireless to tablets, computers and 150+ leading iOS, Android and Windows smartphones using Bluetooth 4.0 wireless technology. Syncing two computers requires Internet connection and USB port. Syncing to mobile devices requires Bluetooth and Internet connection. Syncing range: 20 feet. Call notifications via Bluetooth 4.0
  • Water Resistance: Charge has been tested up to 1 ATM meaning it is sweat, rain and splash proof. However, the device is not swim proof. We also recommend taking charge off before showering because, as with any wearable device, it’s best for your skin if the band stays dry and clean
  • Warning: Do not use if you have a pacemaker or other internal, or implanted medical device. Not intended for use by children under 13. Always consult your physician. Slippery when wet
  • We recommend charging your device every few days to ensure you are always tracking. Charge time: One to two hours. Battery life: up to 7 - 10 days. Battery type: Lithium-polymer
  • Syncs with Windows Vista and later, Mac OS X 10.6 and up, iPhone 4S and later, iPad 3 gen. and later, and leading Android and Windows devices

Review: This is one of Fitbit’s classic activity bands and is a great everyday fitness and lifestyle tracker.

The Flex has a respectable battery life tracks all-day activity and monitors sleep automatically, has many different style and color bands available and has a price tag just about anyone can afford.

It has a silent, vibrating alarm that can wake you up in the morning without disturbing your partner, and the LED lights give you a gauge of how close you are to your step goal at a glance.

It is one of the best activity trackers under $100 dollars.

  • Award Star: Classic activity band under $100
  • Battery Life: 5 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: No
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • LED lights show steps progress.
  • Automatically tracks sleep and has a silent vibrating wake-up alarm.
  • Connects wirelessly with the Fitbit Smartphone app for even more tracking options.

Cons

  • Arms must be moving to count steps.

Takeaway

Best low price fitness & activity tracker under $100 by Fitbit.

Garmin Vivofit 3 Activity Tracker

Garmin vivofit 3, Activity Tracker with 1+ Year Battery Life, Sleep Monitoring and Auto Activity Detection, Black
  • AUTO ACTIVITY DETECTION Capture different activities automatically and view them on Garmin Connect online
  • 1 YEAR BATTERY LIFE No recharging needed. Regular:135 205 millimeter circumference X large:165 225 millimeter circumference
  • 24/7 WEARABILITY The sleek silicone band is comfortable to wear all day on land or in the water. Battery : One replaceable CR1632 coin cell. Smartphone compatibility-iPhone, Android
  • GCM COMPATIBLE Sync automatically or manually with our free smartphone app to view and analyze your stats
  • Display size 10 millimeter x 10 millimeter. Display type sunlight visible, transflective memory in pixel (MIP). Display resolution: 64 x 64 pixels

Review: The Garmin Vivofit offers a lot relative to its small price tag. It counts steps, calories, distance, intensity minutes, displays the time of day on the face and monitors sleep.

All that and it reminds you it is time to move if it has not detected activity in a while. Plus, you never need to worry about charging it.

The battery lasts well over a year before you replace it. It is one of the easiest fitness trackers to use because you can wear it continuously, without charging it.

  • Award Star: Many features for a fair price
  • Battery Life: 1 year, replaceable not rechargeable
  • Heart Rate Monitor: No
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Captures exercise and activity automatically.
  • Audible alarm prompts you to get up and move after 1 hour of inactivity.
  • Adjusts your step goals based on your personal activity level.

Cons

  • Intensity minutes calculated using arm movement. Using the heart rate would be more accurate, but this tracker does not have a HR monitor.

Takeaway

An affordable fitness tracker you never need to charge.

Garmin Vivosmart 3

Review: The Vivosmart 3 is an upgrade from the Vivofit 3 because it has a built-in heart rate monitor, stress and wellness monitoring thanks to the heart rate data, and it has a rep counter, which is a nice feature if you lift weights.

The Vivosmart is showerproof and even tracks floors climbed. It notifies you of emails, texts, and social media notifications and you can read them on screen.

It is challenging to find a fitness tracker with a built-in heart rate for under $100, but the Garmin Vivosmart 3 manages to provide a built-in heart rate tracker and is priced just under $100, making it the best cheap fitness tracker available today.

  • Award Star: Inexpensive tracker that has it all
  • Battery Life: 5 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Stress and wellness feature with guided breathing.
  • Automatically tracks activity.
  • Displays Vo2 Max and fitness age based on HR data.

Cons

  • Does not track machine based cardio well.

Takeaway

Best fitness tracker with heart rate for under 100 dollars.

Waterfi Fitbit Alta HR

Review: This Fitbit Alta HR has been professionally waterproofed by Waterfi so you can take it to the pool, beach, hot tub and even shower with it on every day.

It even captures your heart rate while you are in the water. The waterproofing is done on the inside of the unit and will not fail you. The waterproof Alta HR does everything the standard Alta HR can.

  • Award Star: Pool, ocean, shower, waterproof
  • Battery Life: 7 day battery life
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Completely and professional waterproofed.
  • Heart rate data used to measure calorie burn, workout intensity and sleep stages.
  • Automatically recognizes and tracks exercise.

Cons

  • It does not calculate swimming laps, it only tracks time in water and intensity.

Takeaway

Best waterproof activity tracker in a simple band style.

Garmin Quatix 5

Garmin quatix 5, Multisport Marine Smartwatch, Comprehensive Boat Connectivity, Stainless Steel with Blue Band
  • Provides connectivity with compatible Garmin chart plotters and other devices to provide autopilot control, remote waypoint marking, data streaming including speed, depth, temperature and wind
  • Sail Racing assistance includes virtual starting line, distance to start line, race countdown timer, and tack assist
  • Built-in Fusion-Link Lite App controls connected Stereo Active products, as well as other ANT enabled stereo models (RA70/BB100)
  • Includes Elevate wrist-based heart rate, built-in GPS and features Quick Fit band system, steel bezel, buttons and rear case
  • Preloaded activity profiles for all of your sports and adventures, including for paddle boarding, kayaking and canoeing

Review: Whether you sail, swim, water ski or drive a speed boat, this waterproof fitness tracker covers virtually all water sports.

It sports advanced navigation features due to included GPS, GLONASS satellite reception, altimeter, barometer and compass.

The Quatix 5 is an excellent watch if you sail, boat or are a water sports enthusiast who needs the robust data, navigation and controls the Quatix 5 offers.

It also tracks lifestyle fitness statistics like steps, floors climbed, amount of time active and distance traveled. It also receives email, text and social media notifications.

The Garmin Quatix 5 is one of the best waterproof activity trackers with heart rate monitor available.

  • Award Star: Advanced water sports fitness tracker
  • Battery Life: 2 weeks in watch mode, 24 hrs in GPS/HR mode
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: Yes

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Counts laps, strokes, distance per stroke and speed.
  • Tracks lifestyle fitness metrics like steps and calories burned, in addition to the watersport specific tracking.
  • ANT enabled entertainment controls.

Cons

  • Watch may be overkill for most people.

Takeaway

Completely waterproof – the best fitness tracker smartwatch for swimming and other watersports.

Polar V800 GPS Sports Watch

Polar V800 GPS Sports Watch/Running Watch with Heart Rate Monitor, Black
  • GPS SPORT WATCH: Advanced multisport GPS Watch for serious sports enthusiasts and professional athletes who want to reach peak performance, the built-in GPS keeps track of your ride, run or hike measuring your speed, distance and route
  • ADVANCED TRAINING WATCH: Create and customize profiles for different sports and get exactly the data and guidance you need for each activity
  • FITNESS TRACKER: Combines training load with 24/7 activity data for true recovery status. Polar Flow web service compatibility with Mac OS X 10.6, OS X 10.7, OS X 10.8, or later, and PC Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 8, or later
  • HEART RATE MONITOR INCLUDED: Use the Polar H7 heart rate sensor while training and even while swimming
  • TRIATHLON WATCH: Compatibility with Bluetooth Smart running and cycling sensors provide even more details about your training. Compatible third-party power meters

Review: The Polar V800 is one of the best waterproof activity trackers with heart rate sensor I found.

It uses the polar H7 chest strap heart rate sensor which can track heart rate even while swimming, which many sensors cannot do.

This watch is geared toward Multisport, Triathlon and Ironman athletes, and is compatible with Bluetooth Smart running and cycling sensors, sold separately.

In addition to the sport-specific features of this watch, it also tracks everyday activity and has a reminder to move if you have been sitting a while.

  • Award Star: High-performance triathlon training tool
  • Battery Life: Watch mode 30 days, GPS and HR mode, 13 to 50 hours
  • Heart Rate Monitor: No
  • Built-in GPS: Yes

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Swim metrics, including the ability to count laps manually or automatically.
  • Running program race training Smart Coaching feature creates custom training plans.
  • Includes live STRAVA segments.

Cons

  • The HR monitor is a strap, it is not built-in.

Takeaway

Best waterproof tracker for multiple sport athletes like Triathlon, Ironman, etc.

Suunto Traverse Alpha

Suunto Traverse Watch
  • Features a rugged, knurled stainless steel bezel, durable water repellent nylon strap, and a premium scratch resistant sapphire crystal glass
  • Suunto's automatic shot detection technology keeps track of when and where you shoot, mapping the GPS coordinates of your location for later viewing
  • Gps tracks your path, helping you find your way back using the automatic breadcrumb trail,Compatible with Suunto Movescount App (iOS and Android)
  • Location based moon Phase calendar with moon rise and moon set times helps you determine the best hunting and fishing times. Operating temperature 20° C to +60° C / 5° F to +140° F. Measurements-1.97 x 1.97 x 0.59 inches
  • Suunto Traverse Alpha watches are handmade in Finland. Battery type rechargeable lithium ion. Battery life In time mode 14 days. Training mode with GPS 10, 15, 100 h

Review: The Suunto Traverse Alpha, paired with the Suunto app Movescount, allows you to create your own route, follow routes others took before you and throw down a trail of digital breadcrumbs in case you need to go back and retrace your steps.

The Suunto Traverse Alpha is a fitness tracker dedicated to hikers, trekkers, explorers, hunters, fishers and adventurers.

The Suunto Traverse Alpha, one of the best activity trackers with GPS and GLONASS Satellite Reception, so you can have complete confidence in the navigation of the watch.

The watch also monitors speed, altitude, barometric pressure and about a million other details. It also tracks lifestyle fitness metrics including steps, calories, and provides phone/text notifications.

  • Award Star: The adventurers’ fitness tracker watch
  • Battery Life: Up to 100 hours
  • Heart Rate Monitor: No
  • Built-in GPS: Yes

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Built-in hunting and fishing tools, including shot detection and tracking.
  • Weather alerts, barometric trends, storm alerts & sunrise/set times based on location.
  • Tracks speed, distance, route and altitude.

Cons

  • Battery life varies a lot according to your settings.

Takeaway

Best fitness tracker for hunters, fishermen, hikers and other adventures because of its superior navigation capabilities.

Garmin Forerunner 645 Music

Sale
Garmin Forerunner 645 Music, GPS Running Watch With Pay Contactless Payments, Wrist-Based Heart Rate And Music, Black
  • Easily download up to 500 songs to your watch, and connect with Bluetooth headphones (sold separately) for phone free listening
  • Syncs music from select streaming services for offline listening (May require premium subscription with a third party music provider)
  • Garmin Pay contactless payment solution lets you make convenient payments with your watch (available for supported cards from participating banks), so you can leave your cash and cards at home
  • Provides advanced running dynamics (when used with Running Dynamics Pod or HRM Run or HRM Tri monitor, sold separately), including ground contact time balance, stride length, vertical ratio and more
  • Uses estimated wrist based heart rate data to offer performance monitoring features, including evaluating your current training status.Battery life: Up to 7 days in smartwatch mode; 5 hours in GPS mode with music. Water rating: 5 ATM

Review: The Garmin Forerunner 645 Music is designed for runners who love music. This fitness tracker holds an impressive 500 songs, which you can listen to on Bluetooth headphones, without bringing your phone along for the run.

The running data is great! Running data includes cadence, stride length, ground contact time and balance, vertical oscillation and vertical ratio.

However, you will need the running dynamics pod, sold separately, to track this data.

  • Award Star: Running watch with music storage
  • Battery Life: 7 days as smartwatch; 5 hours in GPS mode with music
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: Yes

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Holds 500 songs you can listen to with Bluetooth earbuds – PHONE FREE.
  • Robust performance tracking – especially for running data.
  • Stay connected with text, email, and social media alerts.
  • High water resistance – swimming and showerproof.

Cons

  • Using the music feature drains the battery fast.

Takeaway

An excellent running watch that allows you to listen to your music on the run – PHONE FREE.

Garmin Vívosmart HR

Garmin vívosmart HR Activity Tracker Regular Fit - Midnight Blue (Deep Blue)
  • WRIST-BASED HEART RATE - Tracks heart rate to provide more accurate calories burned information.
  • SMART NOTIFICATIONS - Displays any notification from your mobile device; calls, texts, social, music, games, etc. with vibration alerts so you don't miss a beat.
  • INTENSITY MINUTES - Monitor your progress against aerobic activity goals recommended by health organizations such as the American Heart Association, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization.
  • ACTIVITY TRACKING - Displays steps, calories, distance, heart rate, floors climbed, intensity minutes and time of day.
  • NOTE: The image on the packaging shows a brighter blue then the actual unit's color. The actual unit color is a very dark blue. Please refer the User Manual before use.

Review: This everyday activity band fits a wide variety of lifestyles and is one of the best activity trackers with heart rate monitor at a great price.

The built-in heart rate monitor collects data that is used to measure calories burned and activity intensity.

It will give you a little jolt of vibration to remind you to stay active when you are sitting too long. You can even control music and receive text, call and social media notification on the screen.

  • Award Star: Everyday waterproof HR activity tracker
  • Battery Life: Up to 5 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Automatically adjusts your steps goal based on activity to keep you challenged.
  • Links to MyFitnessPal and Garmin connect for more in-depth health tracking.
  • Music controls and stay active alert.

Cons

  • Cannot change or customize the strap.

Takeaway

Best waterproof activity tracker with heart rate monitor for everyday health tracking at an affordable price.

Strenx Gymwatch

Review: I admit, the name of this tracker is misleading. It’s actually not a watch, it doesn’t have a screen.

What it does have is a great way to track strength training activity without resorting to pen and paper.

You connect it to the Smartphone app, create a custom workout and select what you want to track, e.g., sets, reps, weight. Strap it to your wrist or leg, and then get lifting.

The watch was designed by German Sports scientists at the University of Darmstadt, and the Gymwatch has a huge catalog of over 900 exercises available to choose from.

The Strenx Gymwatch is the best activity tracker for weight lifting and CrossFit and best activity tracker for gym but we also have an article dedicated to activity tracker for weight lifting and CrossFit if you want to see more weightlifting focused fitness trackers.

  • Award Star: Weightlifting specific tracker
  • Battery Life: Up to 30 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: No
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Evaluates range of motion and time under tension of each rep.
  • App displays a graph of weight and lifting speed so you can analyze the set.
  • Real-time feedback on form and speed of each lift.

Cons

  • It does not track lifestyle health metrics or cardio, just weight lifting, strength training or bodyweight exercises.

Takeaway

Best activity trackers for weight lifting, CrossFit and gym.

Apple Watch Series 3

Review: One of the best things about the Apple Watch is the ability to use third-party apps.

Third-party apps like Gymatic, Fitbod and Gymaholic can be downloaded and used with the Apple Watch to track individual exercises and count reps.

The Gymatic app is able to learn your exercise routine and automatically start counting so you interact with your phone less during the routine.

There is no doubt that the Apple Watch Series 3 is a great smartwatch and many would argue it is also the best activity tracker 2024 too.

  • Award Star: Tracks weight training with 3rd party apps
  • Battery Life: 18 hours
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: Yes

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • It can be used as a weight training tracker, smartwatch and lifestyle health tracker.
  • It can be used to make or receive calls, texts and social media alerts.
  • Water-resistant, pool, shower safe, gym and sweat safe.

Cons

  • Pricy, less than one-day battery life.

Takeaway

Most app friendly fitness watch you can customize to fit your lifting routine.

This is box title
Atlas Wristband 2: Digital Trainer + Heart Rate Band
  • Reach your goals faster with science backed guidance for all of your exercises
  • Lose the chest strap and maximize training with validated wrist-based heart rate monitoring
  • Adaptive Motion Tracking technology auto-detects every exercise and repetition
  • Swim, shower, sweat. 3ATM / 30m water resistance gives you peace of mind; Guided Fitness coaches and tracks you through CrossFit, HIIT, Swimming, and more

Review: This Atlas Wearable Wristband is pretty innovative and quite accurate.

You can wear it on your arm, leg or even attach it magnetically directly to the weight you are lifting.

There are two ways to enter your workout routine.

You can either enter each exercise as you go, which adds a minute or two between each set, or you can use the web page to plan a workout in advance.

The Atlas is a fitness tracker specific to bodybuilding and lifting weights, and aerobic exercises.

It is constructed to accurately track the motion and speed of your lift, which is why it has three each of accelerometers, gyroscopes and compasses.

  • Award Star: Accurate weight training and CrossFit tracker
  • Battery Life: 8 hours
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Tracks power output in watts, speed of lifts, total time under tension and reps.
  • If an exercise is not in the database you can create it and train the beast to recognize it next time.
  • Tracks bodyweight exercises.

Cons

  • Only tracks weight training related exercises. This is a very specialized tracker.

Takeaway

Most accurate weight lifting specific fitness tracker.

Fitbit One Wireless Activity Tracker

Fitbit One Wireless Activity Plus Sleep Tracker, Black
  • One syncs automatically and wirelessly to tablets, computers and 150 plus leading iOS, Android and Windows smartphones using Bluetooth 4.0 wireless technology. Syncing to computers requires Internet connection and USB port. Syncing to mobile devices requires Bluetooth and Internet connection. Syncing range: 20 feet. Call notifications via Bluetooth 4.0
  • Water Resistance: Charge has been tested up to 1 ATM meaning it is sweat, rain and splash proof. However, the device is not swim proof. We also recommend taking Charge off before showering because, as with any wearable device, it’s best for your skin if the band stays dry and clean.
  • Warning: Do not use if you have a pacemaker or other internal, or implanted medical device. Not intended for use by children under 13. Always consult your physician. Slippery when wet
  • We recommend charging your device every few days to ensure you are always tracking. Charge time: One to two hours. Battery life: up to 7 - 10 days. Battery type: Lithium-polymer
  • Syncs with Windows Vista and later, Mac OS X 10.6 and up, iPhone 4S and later, iPad 3 gen. and later, and leading Android and Windows devices

Review: The Fitbit One is a classic wearable, one of the first fitness trackers on the market. This clip style tracker measures steps taken, distance moved, calories burned and stairs climbed.

It is a good choice for those who do not want to wear a band.

The Fitbit One is sweat and splash-proof, but you should not swim or shower with it on.

  • Award Star: Classic wearable tracker
  • Battery Life: 14 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: No
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Silent vibrating alarm, plus sleep tracking.
  • Wear it discreetly.
  • Clear OLED display.

Cons

  • Not waterproof.

Takeaway

Simple and easy to use clip style wearable fitness tracker by Fitbit

Bellabeat Leaf Urban Health Tracker

Bellabeat Leaf Urban Smart Jewelry Health Tracker, Urban Gray / Silver
  • Bella beat Leaf products DO NOT NEED CHARGING. They include a coin cell battery that lasts for approximately 6 months. This allows you to track 24 hours a day
  • Package includes: Leaf Urban Gray/Silver, Active Bracelet | Violet Ice, Infinity Necklace | Silver, Battery Replacement Tool. Leaf works with both Android & iOS
  • Bella beat Leaf products can be re-synched to a new device at any time through the App
  • Simply sync your Leaf with your phone via wireless sync

Review: The Bellabeat Leaf is an activity and lifestyle tracker in the form of a piece of jewelry.

It is designed for women and includes a breathing and relaxation app and menstrual cycle tracker.

It can be worn all the time as a necklace or bracelet. Plus there is no need to take it off and charge it, making it one of the easiest to use fitness trackers for women. The Bellabeat has a coin style battery that lasts for 6 months.

It is one of my favorite best wearable activity trackers of 2024 for women.

  • Award Star: The wearable just for women
  • Battery Life: 6 months replaceable
  • Heart Rate Monitor: No
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • IPX6 grade waterproof, can be worn in the shower.
  • Tracks steps, distance, calories, sleep, menstrual cycle and stress.
  • Includes silent wake up alarm and “move” reminder.

Cons

  • The stress tracking may not be accurate, according to some users.

Takeaway

Beast wearable fitness tracker for women in a necklace or clip style.

Garmin Vívofit Jr 2

Garmin vivofit jr. 2, Kids Fitness/Activity Tracker, 1-Year Battery Life, Adjustable Band, Star Wars the Resistance
  • Swim-friendly kids activity tracker with Star Wars theme
  • Kid-tough adjustable band, features a customizable color screen and 1+ year battery life; No recharging needed
  • Syncs with free mobile app, which includes chore management and schedule alert tools for parents.
  • Kids Advance in bb-8’s adventure: A Star Wars story app adventures by meeting 60-minute daily activity goals
  • Tracks steps, sleep and 60 minutes of daily recommended activity

Review: The Vivofit Jr 2 by Garmin is a fitness tracker designed just for kids. Parents can download the parent app for their phone and set reminders for their kids to brush their teeth or feed the dog.

The family can get involved in a little competition with a daily step challenge.

It works as a watch so children always know what time it is, the band is completely waterproof and has a battery that lasts well over a year before you need to replace it.

The Garmin Vivofit Jr. 2 band comes in lots of fun patterns and has some useful features for parents too.

  • Award Star: Well built kids fitness tracker
  • Battery Life: 1 year
  • Heart Rate Monitor: No
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Tracks sleep and activity level.
  • Parents can set alarms and reminders for kids using the phone app.
  • Tracks children’s sleep patterns and syncs the data to parent’s phone.

Cons

  • No child location tracking.

Takeaway

Best activity tracker for kids that does not need to be charged.

Fitbit Ace

Fitbit Ace, Activity Tracker for Kids 8+, Power Purple / Stainless Steel, 1 Count
  • Tracks steps, active minutes and sleep and shows stats on a bright, tap the display
  • Reward kids for hitting goals with celebratory messages and achievement badges. Kids can challenge others to step competitions, plus send each other messages or cheers
  • A showerproof tracker that survives splashes and spills with a secure, adjustable wristband for growing kids (one size). Designed for wrist sizes up to 155 mm/6.10 in.
  • Syncs stats wirelessly and automatically to iOS & Android devices and has a battery life up to 5 days (varies with use and other factors)
  • In the Fitbit app, parents create an account for their child under a family account (family account and parental consent required for children 12 and under)

Review: The Fitbit Ace is aimed at kids. It tracks steps, activity time and sleep – all viewable through the app on the parent’s phone.

Parents can set activity and step goals and the phone displays a motivating fireworks display when the goal is reached.

This kids’ fitness tracker is shower and splash-proof, perfect for a child’s active lifestyle.

Plus…

Your kids can use this fitness tracker to challenge others in a step competition, keeping them motivated to stay active.

  • Award Star: Latest Fitbit children’s activity tracker
  • Battery Life: 5 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: No
  • Built-in GPS: No

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Shower proof and durable.
  • Tracks sleep and parents can set a silent, vibrating wake-up alarm to get kids going in the morning.
  • Parents can use the app to check in on their children’s progress.

Cons

  • Band is small, no child locator.

Takeaway

Best Fitbit fitness tracker for kids, with helpful features for parents.

Fitbit Surge

Fitbit Surge Fitness Superwatch, Black, Small (US Version)
  • Surge syncs automatically and wirelessly to tablets, computers and 150+ leading iOS, Android and Windows smartphones using Bluetooth 4.0 wireless technology
  • Get continuous, automatic, wrist based heart rate and simplified heart rate zones
  • Track workouts & view workout summaries; plus all day activities including steps, distance, calories burned, floors climbed and active minutes
  • Monitor your sleep automatically and wake with a silent alarm
  • US Version

Review: The Fitbit Surge is a reasonably priced fitness tracker that accommodates cyclists because it has the distinction of having both a built-in heart rate monitor and built-in GPS.

This means you do not need to bring your smartphone along for the ride. The Surge also tracks lifestyle fitness metrics like sleep and steps, and displays the time like a watch.

It also makes a great watch for cyclists because it has GPS tracking, allows you to see your distance, pace and elevation climbed too.

  • Award Star: Built-in GPS and HR monitor
  • Battery Life: 4 days
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
  • Built-in GPS: Yes

Editor Rating:

Pros

  • Built-in GPS.
  • Built-in heart rate monitor.
  • Low price point.

Cons

  • GPS mode drains battery pretty quick.

Takeaway

Best fitness tracker for cyclists and cycling at a low price

How to Choose a Fitness Tracker – Buying Guide

man after workout checks fitness results in activity tracker

Why Get a Fitness Tracker?

A fitness tracker can do several things for you, provided you are committed to wearing it and keeping it charged.

Daily Activity and Steps

Wearing a fitness tracker may help you identify fluctuations in activity from day to day. If you work in an office you may get more chair time than you thought.

A fitness tracker will reveal to you the non-sugar coated truth about how much activity you are actually getting.

They will also tell you when you have been sitting on your bum for too long and need a walking break.

Seeing the step, calorie and activity numbers in black and white may be an eye-opener for some, and hopefully will motivate you to get moving.

Sleep Tracking

The sleep tracking feature is the unsung hero of most fitness trackers.

Sleep tracking can show you how your sleep quality is, how many times you woke up, and how long you slept for.

You will have some concrete data to evaluate and you will be able to tie that data to how you feel in the morning.

Young active woman wearing fitness watch

What Fitness Tracker is Right for Me?

For most people an everyday tracker like the Fitbit Versa 2 a good choice. The Fitbit trackers track all the basic health data like steps, calories burned, sleep, etc.

However…

If you practice a specific sport like running, cycling, hiking, and such, you may benefit from one of the many specialized fitness trackers geared toward your sport or activity. The Suunto Ambit3 Run HR Monitor is a good example of a sport-specific tracker geared towards runners.

Trust me when I say, if you are into a particular sports, there is a fitness tracker out there geared toward that sport.

What to Look for in a Fitness Tracker?

Style

Fitness trackers come in many styles. Some look like watches, others are bands, and others are wearable’s like a ring, clip-on or pendant. Some fitness trackers have faces that display data while others do not.

You just have to decide what you like and what fits your lifestyle, considering you wear a fitness tracker all the time, you need something that fits in at work, home, the gym and wherever else your life takes you.

HR Monitor

Some fitness trackers have a built-in heart rate monitor. The heart rate monitor allows the tracker to collect more accurate data and is one metric that tells you how hard you are working.

Personally, I think a HR monitor is a must-have feature, but you need to decide for yourself if that is an important feature for you.

GPS

There are two ways a fitness tracker can track your location. It can be paired with an app on your phone and use the GPS on your phone to map your location, or the tracker can have built-in GPS.

Why do you need GPS? Technically you don’t. If all you want is basic health data, GPS is not essential.

But…

If you are a runner or cyclist, or hiker and want to map your runs, the GPS feature is nice.

GPS built into the fitness tracker is best because it means you can leave your phone behind when you run.

Sport Specific

Everyday trackers are perfect for people who want a well-rounded view of their overall health and activity level, but what about people who participate in specific sports like swimming, running, hiking, weight lifting or cycling?

Specialized fitness tracker give athletes specific performance-enhancing feedback.

If you participate in a specific sport, you may want to consider a fitness tracker designed for your sport.

For example:

The Strenx Gymwatch is a great fitness tracker if you lift weights, as it counts reps, and tracks time under tension, allowing you to see your progress day by day.

If you are a swimmer, the Garmin Quatix 5 is the best. It’s waterproof, counts your laps, distance per stroke and more.

Best Fitness Tracker Brands

There are many excellent fitness tracker brands out there.

Among the best fitness tracker brands are Fitbit, Apple, Garmin, Polar, Suunto and Samsung.

Fitness Tracker FAQs

Athlete Man Wearing Smart Watch in Gym

Are Fitness Trackers Accurate?

It depends on the tracker and the technology it contains.

No tracker is 100 percent accurate, because how can it know precisely what is happening inside your body.

A tracker with a heart rate monitor is the most accurate in terms of estimating calories burned.

A fitness tracker bases its calculations on your height, weight, and sex. A tracker without a heart rate monitor can only estimate your calories burned base on your height, weight, and sex.

But a fitness tracker with a HR monitor has one extra piece of data to use to make a more accurate calculation.

Do Fitness Trackers Track Calories Burned?

Most of the best fitness trackers do track calories burned. As I stated before, if accuracy is important to you when it comes to knowing how many calories you burned, get a fitness tracker with a heart rate monitor.

What is the Easiest Fitness Tracker to Use?

IMO the easiest fitness tracker to use is the Garmin Vivofit because it is a simple band with a basic display that goes dark and blends in when you are not checking it.

It does not need to be charged, and the battery lasts for a year.

Do Fitness Trackers Work without a Phone?

Finding a fitness tracker that does not integrate with a phone is challenging these days.

Some older model fitness trackers may work without a phone. These older models are generally designed to sync directly to your computer, which is not very user-friendly.

Do any Fitness Trackers Measure Blood Pressure?

There are few to no reputable fitness trackers that track blood pressure with good enough reviews to include here.

The only fitness tracker smartwatch I know of that includes blood pressure is Samsung Galaxy Smartwatch and the blood pressure is an estimate based off the PPG.

Do Fitness Trackers Improve Health?

Fitness trackers track and display data about you. What you choose to do with that data has an effect on your health.

Fitness trackers are excellent tools that help you improve your health, but just like a blood pressure monitor cannot lower your blood pressure, a fitness tracker cannot do the work for you.

Having said that, I know many people who have improved their health, become more active and lost weight after they started to wear a fitness tracker because the fitness tracker made them more aware of their activity level and gave them regular reminders of how they were doing.

Summary

 

Fitness trackers are amazing option to monitor your health and performance and therefore if you’re planning to do any type of physical activity you might want to consider getting one.

The ultimate best fitness tracker on our list is definitely Fitbit Versa 2 Smartwatch but we generally recommend getting Fitbit Ionic Smartwatch as it pretty much has everything you need and it’s a bit cheaper.

However, if you’re looking for some truly inexpensive fitness trackers under $50 we also have reviewed them here!

Hope this article helps!

Cheers