5 best fitness trackers for 2024

Source: www.freepik.com

Are you ready to kickstart your fitness journey in 2024? Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just someone looking to get a bit more active, a fitness tracker can be your new best friend. These nifty gadgets have come a long way, helping you keep track of your steps, heart rate, sleep, and even stress levels. Imagine having a personal coach right on your wrist, motivating you to move more and stay healthy. Sounds awesome, right?

But with so many options out there, finding the perfect fitness tracker can feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack. This article will guide to the best fitness trackers for 2024. From budget-friendly picks to feature-packed powerhouses, we've got something for everyone.

We'll explore the different types of fitness trackers, explain the key differences between fitness trackers and smartwatches, and give you all the info you need to make an informed choice. So, whether you're aiming to crush your fitness goals or just want a cool gadget to show off to your friends, stick around. You're about to find your perfect match!

What is a fitness tracker?

So, what exactly is a fitness tracker? In simple terms, it's a wearable device designed to monitor and track various physical activities and health metrics. Think of it as your digital fitness buddy, always there to keep tabs on your progress and help you stay on top of your health game. These devices usually come in the form of a wristband or a smartwatch, making them super convenient to wear all day long.

Fitness trackers use sensors to collect data about your movements and vitals. For example, they can count your steps, measure your heart rate, track your sleep patterns, and even monitor your stress levels. Some advanced models can track specific exercises like running, cycling, swimming, and yoga, giving you a detailed breakdown of your workout performance. They sync with your smartphone via Bluetooth, allowing you to view and analyze your data through a companion app.

But it’s not just about numbers and stats. Fitness trackers often include features like goal setting, reminders to move, and even guided workouts. These tools can be incredibly motivating, encouraging you to push a little harder each day. Plus, many fitness trackers offer social features, letting you share your achievements with friends or join fitness communities for some friendly competition.

In short, a fitness tracker is much more than just a fancy pedometer. It's a comprehensive health and wellness tool designed to help you live a healthier, more active life. Whether you're trying to lose weight, improve your fitness, or just stay more mindful of your daily habits, a fitness tracker can be a game-changer.

What are the different types of fitness tracker?

Fitness trackers come in various shapes and sizes, each designed to cater to different needs and lifestyles. Knowing the different types can help you pick the one that’s just right for you. Let’s break them down:

Basic fitness trackers: These are the simplest and most affordable options. Basic fitness trackers focus on the essentials, like counting your steps, tracking your sleep, and monitoring your heart rate. They’re perfect for those who want to get a general idea of their daily activity levels without too many bells and whistles. If you’re just starting out or looking for something straightforward, a basic fitness tracker might be your best bet.

Advanced Fitness Trackers: These take things up a notch with additional features and sensors. Advanced trackers can monitor a wider range of activities, like running, cycling, and swimming. They often include GPS for tracking your routes and advanced metrics like VO2 max (a measure of aerobic fitness). If you’re a serious athlete or just love having detailed insights into your workouts, an advanced fitness tracker is worth considering.

Fitness trackers with smartwatch features: Blurring the lines between fitness trackers and smartwatches, these devices offer the best of both worlds. Alongside fitness tracking, they provide smart features like notifications, music control, and even contactless payments. They’re ideal for those who want a versatile device that can handle both fitness tracking and everyday tasks.

Hybrid fitness trackers: These are perfect for those who prefer a more traditional look. Hybrid trackers combine the classic appearance of an analog watch with the modern functionality of a fitness tracker. They usually hide the tech inside a sleek, stylish design, offering basic fitness metrics without sacrificing style.

Specialized fitness trackers: Tailored for specific activities or health metrics, these trackers are designed with particular users in mind. For example, there are fitness trackers specifically for swimmers, which are waterproof and can track swimming metrics. Others might focus on heart health, providing in-depth heart rate monitoring and ECG readings. If you have specific fitness goals or health concerns, a specialized fitness tracker could be the right choice for you.

Different between fitness tracker & smartwatches

Fitness trackers and smartwatches may seem similar at first glance, but they have distinct differences that cater to different needs and preferences. Understanding these differences can help you decide which device is the best fit for you.

Fitness trackers: 

Fitness trackers are primarily designed to monitor your physical activity and health metrics. They focus on features like step counting, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and activity-specific tracking (like running, cycling, or swimming). Fitness trackers are usually smaller, lighter, and more streamlined than smartwatches, making them comfortable to wear 24/7. They often have a longer battery life, lasting from several days to even weeks on a single charge. Fitness trackers are perfect for those who are mainly interested in tracking their fitness progress without the distraction of extra features.

Smartwatches: 

Smartwatches, on the other hand, offer a broader range of functionalities that go beyond fitness tracking. They are essentially mini-computers on your wrist, combining the features of a fitness tracker with those of a smartphone. Alongside fitness tracking, smartwatches provide notifications for calls, messages, emails, and social media. They often include apps for navigation, music control, and even contactless payments. Some smartwatches come with built-in cellular connectivity, allowing you to make and receive calls without needing your phone nearby. However, all these features can come at the cost of shorter battery life, typically lasting one to two days before needing a recharge.

Key differences:

Purpose: 

Fitness trackers are focused on health and fitness monitoring, while smartwatches offer a wide range of smart features alongside fitness tracking.

Design:

Fitness trackers are usually more compact and lightweight, designed for continuous wear. Smartwatches are larger and often more stylish, with customizable watch faces and bands.

Battery life: 

Fitness trackers generally have a longer battery life compared to smartwatches, which require more frequent charging due to their additional functionalities.

Functionality:

Smartwatches can handle tasks like notifications, app usage, and even calls, whereas fitness trackers stick to health and activity tracking.

Price: 

Fitness trackers tend to be more affordable, while smartwatches can be significantly more expensive due to their expanded feature set.

In summary, if your primary goal is to keep a close eye on your fitness and health metrics, a fitness tracker might be the right choice for you. However, if you want a versatile device that can also keep you connected and handle a variety of tasks, a smartwatch could be the better option. It all comes down to what features you value most in your wearable tech.

Best fitness trackers in 2024

Choosing the right fitness tracker can be a game-changer for your health and fitness journey. Here's a rundown of the top 10 fitness trackers in 2024, based on comprehensive reviews and user feedback.

1. Fitbit Charge 6

Source: www.fitbit.com

The Fitbit Charge 6 continues to impress as a top contender in the fitness tracker market, despite fierce competition from brands like Apple and Garmin. What makes the Charge 6 stand out is its perfect balance between style, affordability, and functionality, making it an excellent choice for everyday users rather than elite athletes.

What's new in Charge 6?

This year’s model has received a significant upgrade with several integrations from Google, Fitbit's parent company. The redesigned app now offers a modern, organized interface that enhances user experience. Key features include the ability to get directions via Google Maps, make payments with Google Wallet, and control music through a YouTube Music Premium subscription. Health monitoring is comprehensive with 24/7 heart rate tracking, ECG capability, and skin temperature checks. Plus, the Charge 6 now supports 40 sport profiles, double the number from its previous version, making it versatile for various types of activities.

Design and usability

The Fitbit Charge 6 sports a color touchscreen and boasts a 5ATM water-resistance rating, making it suitable for swimming and other water activities. The return of the physical button is a welcome addition, providing easier navigation. With a battery life that lasts over a week, you won’t have to worry about frequent charging. At a price point of $160, it offers significant value for money.

Premium features and accessibility

One downside is that some of the best features are locked behind a $10/month Fitbit Premium subscription. Despite this, the Charge 6 remains an attractive option for those seeking a reliable fitness tracker without the premium price tag of an Apple Watch or Google Pixel Watch 2.

Plus:

• Google integrations: Features like Google Maps, Google Wallet, and YouTube Music control.
• Advanced health monitoring: Includes ECG, skin temperature, and 24/7 heart rate tracking.
• Versatile sport profiles: Supports 40 different sport profiles.
• User-friendly design: Color touchscreen, physical button, and over a week of battery life.
• Affordable: At $160, it offers great value for its features.

Minus:

• Subscription model: Many top features require a $10/month Fitbit Premium subscription.
• Less premium feel: Doesn’t feel as high-end as more expensive options like the Apple Watch or Google Pixel Watch 2.

Who It's for

The Fitbit Charge 6 is ideal for those who want a robust fitness tracker without venturing into smartwatch territory. It’s perfect for individuals looking to monitor their daily activities, health metrics, and fitness progress with ease. The device is compatible with most smartphones running Android 9.0 or iOS 15 and above, requiring a Google Account for the Fitbit app.

2. Apple Watch Series 9

Source: www.apple.com

For iPhone users, the Apple Watch Series 9 is a top-tier fitness tracker that excels in both functionality and integration with the Apple ecosystem. People tend to hold on to their Apple Watch for years, and rightfully so—it remains the best fitness tracker if you have an iPhone.

What's new in Series 9?

The Apple Watch Series 9 (7/10, WIRED Recommends) may look similar to its predecessors, but it packs significant upgrades under the hood. The new S9 chipset enhances onboard processing for Siri commands, leading to noticeable improvements in battery life and potentially providing more privacy for your sensitive medical data. Additionally, the ultra-wideband chip allows for precision-locating your iPhone quickly and accurately.

Innovative features

One of the standout features of the Series 9 is the new Double Tap function. Borrowing from Apple's accessibility learnings, the accelerometer, gyroscope, and optical sensor detect the minute shifts when you tap your index finger and thumb on your watch hand twice. This action activates the primary button on your watch screen, making it convenient for stopping and starting music or timers, especially in situations where your other hand is occupied.

Health and fitness tracking

The Series 9 is compatible with WatchOS 10, which includes new watch faces, app redesigns, and additional health-related features. While you can find many of WatchOS 10's updates on the second-gen Watch SE, the Series 9 stands out with advanced health sensors like wrist-based body temperature sensing, providing more comprehensive health monitoring.

Plus:

• S9 chipset: Faster processing for Siri commands, improved battery life, and enhanced privacy for medical data.
• Ultra-wideband chip: Precision-locating your iPhone quickly and accurately.
• Double tap feature: Convenient control for music, timers, and more.
• Advanced health sensors: Includes wrist-based body temperature sensing and other comprehensive health metrics.
• WatchOS 10 compatibility: Access to new watch faces, app redesigns, and additional health features.

Minus:

• High price point: More expensive compared to other fitness trackers.
• Similar design: Looks almost identical to previous Apple Watch models.

Who it's for

The Apple Watch Series 9 is perfect for iPhone users looking for a fitness tracker that seamlessly integrates with their smartphone and provides advanced health and fitness tracking capabilities. It’s ideal for those who want a versatile device that combines the functionalities of a fitness tracker and a smartwatch.

3. Samsung Galaxy Watch6

Source: www.samsung.com

The Samsung Galaxy Watch6 series offers an impressive blend of style, functionality, and cutting-edge health tracking tools, making it a top choice for Android users in 2024. This year’s Galaxy Watch6 Classic reintroduces the beloved, tactile rotating bezel, adding a unique and fun element not commonly found on other smartwatches and fitness trackers.

What's new in Watch6?

Unlike last year’s Galaxy Watch5, the Watch6 Classic (7/10, WIRED Recommends) brings back the fabulous, clicky, rotating bezel, available in 43- or 47-mm cases. The standard Watch6, without the mechanical bezel, comes in 40- and 44-mm cases. The Watch6 series maintains the sleek design of its predecessor while enhancing its usability with Wear OS, giving you access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and a robust suite of Samsung health features.

Innovative features

The Watch6 series excels in health tracking with FDA-cleared irregular heart rate notifications and blood pressure monitoring (the latter not available in the US nor cleared by the FDA). It offers wrist-based body composition measurements and overnight snore tracking, features not available on the Apple Watch. After a 15-second scan, the watch provides detailed metrics such as skeletal muscle mass, fat mass, body fat percentage, BMI, body water mass, and BMR, indicating whether your results fall within the low, normal, or high range.

When worn to bed, the watch, paired with a compatible smartphone, can listen for snoring and record it. It also tracks sleep duration, stages (awake, light, deep, and REM), and overnight SpO2 levels. For fitness enthusiasts, the Watch6 series supports over 100 different workouts, from walking and running to archery and flying disc, and can automatically detect certain activities. It also offers access to numerous third-party fitness, health, and sports apps via the Play Store.

Plus:

• Rotating bezel: Unique, tactile control for navigating the watch interface.
• Advanced health tracking: Includes wrist-based body composition measurements and overnight snore tracking.
• Wide range of workouts: Supports over 100 different workouts with auto-detection for certain activities.
• Wear OS integration: Access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and various third-party apps.
• Multiple sizes and styles: Available in different case sizes and materials, including a shiny stainless steel option for the Classic model.

Minus:

• Samsung-Specific features: Some features, like ECG, are restricted to Samsung phone users.
• Battery life: While decent, it may not last as long as some rugged alternatives.
• Price: Higher cost, especially for the Classic model with the rotating bezel.

Who it's for

The Samsung Galaxy Watch6 series is ideal for Android users seeking a feature-rich smartwatch with state-of-the-art fitness and health tracking tools. Similar to how the Apple Watch only works with iOS devices, the Galaxy Watch6 series is exclusive to Android. If you're looking for a more affordable alternative with stellar battery life, the OnePlus Watch 2 offers most of the same sensors and health tracking features at a similar price point.

4. Garmin Forerunner 165

Source: www.garmin.com

When it comes to running watches, Garmin's Forerunner line has long been a favorite among athletes, and the Forerunner 165 is no exception. Positioned as a perfect balance of affordability and advanced features, the Forerunner 165 is a standout choice for runners of all levels.

What's new in Forerunner 165?

The Garmin Forerunner 165 strikes an excellent compromise between price and functionality. While it's on the more affordable end of the Forerunner spectrum, it doesn't skimp on essential features. It boasts a bright AMOLED display, an altimeter for precise mileage tracking, and a blood oxygen sensor. These features make it a versatile and valuable tool for runners who want accurate data without breaking the bank.

Innovative features

Garmin's Forerunner 165 is equipped with multiple satellite systems for accurate positioning and access to Garmin's proprietary training algorithms. This ensures you get reliable data whether you're running in the city or on remote trails. The watch's suggested workouts are flexible and tailored to your fitness level, helping you improve steadily. The sleep and workout tracking capabilities are highly accurate, and the decent battery life means you won’t need to charge it Minustantly.

One of the standout features is Garmin's Morning Report, which provides a summary of your last night's sleep, the weather, and your readiness to tackle the day. This feature helps you start your day with all the information you need to plan your training and daily activities effectively. The Music version, available for an extra $50, allows you to listen to your favorite tunes on the go, although some might find it more trouble than it's worth.

Plus:

• Bright AMOLED display: Clear and vibrant, making it easy to read in all conditions.
• Accurate tracking: Includes an altimeter and multiple satellite systems for precise tracking.
• Blood oxygen sensor: Provides valuable health insights.
• Morning report: A unique feature that summarizes sleep stats, weather, and daily readiness.
• Affordability: Offers advanced features at a lower price compared to higher-end models.

Minus:

• Music version extra cost: The added feature of music can be cumbersome and may not be worth the extra $50.
• Battery life: Decent but not as long-lasting as some alternatives.

Who it's for

The Garmin Forerunner 165 is ideal for runners looking for a reliable and feature-rich watch that won't break the bank. It's perfect for those who want detailed tracking and health metrics without the high price tag of more premium models. The Forerunner 165 is compatible with most training environments, making it suitable for both casual runners and more advanced athletes.

5. Garmin Lily 2

Source: www.garmin.com

The Garmin Lily 2 is a fitness tracker that perfectly blends elegance and functionality, making it an excellent choice for women who want a device that complements their style while providing comprehensive health tracking.

What's new in Lily 2?

Designed specifically for women, the Garmin Lily 2 stands out with its classic, jewelry-like design. It features a beautiful, patterned face, an aluminum bezel and case, and a 14mm quick-release band that’s much slimmer than most smartwatch straps, allowing it to be worn seamlessly alongside other bracelets. This design ensures that the Lily 2 can transition effortlessly from fitness classes to fancy dinners.

Innovative features

The Garmin Lily 2 is not just about looks; it also packs a range of health and fitness tracking features. It can monitor calories burned, energy levels, heart rate, respiration, sleep, SpO2, steps, stress, and workouts. These comprehensive health metrics help you stay on top of your wellness goals.

In addition to health tracking, the Lily 2 offers several smartwatch features, including phone notifications, music playback controls, and useful calendar and weather widgets. It's water-resistant up to 164 feet, making it suitable for swimming and other water activities. Plus, with a battery life of up to five days, you won’t need to charge it frequently.

Plus:

• Elegant design: Jewelry-like appearance with a patterned face and slim 14mm band.
• Comprehensive health tracking: Monitors a wide range of health metrics, including heart rate, sleep, and SpO2.
• Smartwatch features: Includes phone notifications, music playback controls, and calendar and weather widgets.
• Water-resistant: Can withstand depths up to 164 feet, suitable for swimming.
• Decent battery life: Lasts up to five days on a single charge.

Minus:

• Lacks integrated GPS: Does not have built-in GPS, which is available in more affordable options like the Fitbit Charge 6.
• Limited sports functionality: Cannot sync heart rate to gym equipment.

Who it's for

The Garmin Lily 2 is perfect for women who want a fitness tracker that seamlessly transitions from fitness classes to fancy dinners. Its elegant design makes it a more aesthetically pleasing wellness wearable compared to bulkier sports watches. Although it lacks some features like integrated GPS and the ability to sync heart rate to gym equipment, it compensates with its stylish appearance and comfort, especially for small wrists.

Conclusion

the best fitness tracker for you will depend on your lifestyle, fitness goals, and personal preferences. From robust health tracking and advanced features to stylish designs and budget-friendly options, there’s a fitness tracker out there that can help you stay on top of your health and fitness goals in 2024. Choose the one that best fits your needs and get ready to elevate your fitness journey!

Friska 🐨

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