Choosing a fitness tracker can be intimidating, especially when starting your first fitness routine. There’s a range of options at different prices, and you may not know what makes an $800 smartwatch better than a $100 armband. Smart rings are increasingly popular, but you may wonder what the tradeoff is for their size and looks.
I’ve covered fitness tech for many years, and my main hobby is weightlifting. I’ve come to understand the important things to consider when shopping for any fitness tracker. When you understand the basic principles, the decision is relatively easy, limited only by your budget.
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7 Phone compatibility
It’s wise to avoid platform lock-in if you can
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Any fitness tracker worth buying must be paired with a smartphone. The devices must be paired for setup and syncing things like health data, music, and notifications. So, you’ll need to know which platforms a tracker is compatible with. For example, the Pixel Watch 3 only works with Android phones running Android 10 or later. You’ll need an iPhone if you have an Apple Watch, even if you pay extra for an Apple Watch Ultra 2.
If you want the freedom to switch phones at will, it’s best to pick a tracker that supports Android and iOS.
If you want the freedom to switch phones at will, pick a tracker that supports Android and iOS, such as those from brands like Coros or Garmin. You may lose platform-exclusive features. Still, all the core functions will be there, particularly if you want to get healthy or improve your athletic performance, rather than things like messaging.
6 Waterproofing and overall durability
Tough activities mean you should make tough demands
The cheapest fitness trackers and some expensive ones share something in common: durability issues. The cheap ones tend to be made of low-grade plastic and have minimal water resistance. Expensive models may sacrifice toughness in a few areas for a
7 things I’d look for when buying a fitness tracker
