15 Best Fitness Trackers for 2025: Reviews & Buying Guide

Discover the best fitness trackers of 2025 in our ultimate review. We compare 15 top fitness trackers – from budget bands to advanced trackers – covering design, key features (GPS, heart rate, SpO₂, sleep, battery life) and who each is best for.

We’ve tested and researched the latest dedicated fitness trackers to help you find the perfect one for your needs. Fitness trackers have evolved into sleek, feature-packed devices that go beyond simple step counting. They now include built-in GPS for mapping runs, continuous heart-rate and SpO₂ monitoring, sleep analysis, and long battery life. In this guide, we compare 15 of the best fitness trackers available in the US in 2025. We’ll cover their design and display, major features, ideal use cases (e.g. runners, beginners, style-focused users), and list pros and cons for each. Whether you want a no-frills band with huge battery life or a high-end tracker with advanced health sensors, we’ve got you covered. Read on for our detailed reviews, a spec comparison table, and FAQs to help you decide which fitness tracker is right for you.

Comparison Table of Key Specs

Each of these trackers covers the essentials – step counting, heart-rate and sleep monitoring – but they vary in form factor and focus. Our table above highlights the key differences: for example, the Fitbit Charge 6 and Amazfit Active 2 include built-in GPS for accurate run tracking, while most budget bands rely on your phone’s GPS. Battery life ranges widely (from days to weeks) as does display type, from tiny OLED screens on the Vivosmart 5 to a full-fledged 1.97″ AMOLED on the Bip 6. Refer to the sections below for deep dives into each device’s design, features, and our recommendations.

Fitbit Charge 6

Image: Fitbit Charge 6 with a colorful step-count watch face. The Fitbit Charge 6 is Fitbit’s flagship fitness tracker and our top overall pick. It offers a sleek, slim design with a bright 1.04-inch AMOLED touchscreen. The Charge 6 packs advanced health features: a continuous heart-rate monitor, SpO₂ tracking, ECG and EDA stress sensors, and built-in GPS for phone-free run tracking. Its software is user-friendly, with touchscreen and side-button controls. As Tom’s Guide notes, it even includes Google apps support (Maps, YouTube Music, Wallet), making it feel more versatile. Battery life is about a week (5–7 days), so you only charge occasionally.

Design & Display: The Charge 6 has a glass-and-aluminum body with a silicone band. The 1.04″ AMOLED display is sharp and vibrant in daylight. It supports an always-on mode. The unit is lightweight and comfortable for 24/7 wear.

Features: This tracker includes GPS+GLONASS, continuous heart rate (PurePulse®), SpO₂ monitoring, sleep/stress tracking, and even EDA (electrodermal activity) for stress. It can auto-detect workouts (Fitbit’s SmartTrack) and shows calorie burn, steps, pace, and more. Notably, Fitbit added a “Daily Readiness Score” for recovery insight. Onboard NFC allows Fitbit Pay. One trade-off: much of the advanced data (like detailed trends) is unlocked only with a Fitbit Premium subscription.

Best for: We think Charge 6 is best for everyday users who want an all-around fitness tracker. It’s especially strong for general fitness and well-being tracking. Runners and hikers benefit from the built-in GPS and long battery. It’s also great for fans of Fitbit’s ecosystem and those who want a sturdy tracker that covers all health basics without a full smartwatch.

Pros:

• Large, crisp AMOLED screen and always-on display.
• Lightweight and slim – comfortable 24/7.
• Accurate heart-rate and sleep tracking (Fitbit is well-tested in lab studies).
• Built-in GPS for accurate outdoor tracking.
• Google apps (Maps, music, wallet) support.

Cons:

• Small display area limits reading long texts.
• Many health insights locked behind subscription.
• No music storage (requires phone).

Buy on Amazon: Buy on Amazon

Fitbit Inspire 3

The Fitbit Inspire 3 is a budget-friendly, no-frills fitness tracker. It nails the basics for a low price, as Tom’s Guide notes: “It nails the basics: heart rate monitoring, accurate workout tracking and logging sleep stages”. Unlike the Charge 6, it lacks built-in GPS, but it can connect to your phone’s GPS when needed. It has a bright 0.71″ color AMOLED touchscreen (a first for the Inspire line), which is easier to read than previous grayscale models. Battery life is excellent – about 10 days – so you can forget frequent charging. For around $100, you get step count, 24/7 heart rate, sleep analysis (including stages and sleep score), and Fitbit’s Active Zone Minutes coaching. The Inspire 3 is lightweight and simple, with a comfortable silicone band available in multiple colors.

Design & Display: The Inspire 3 has a minimalist capsule design with curved glass. Its 0.71″ AMOLED screen is surprisingly colorful and responsive. It’s not huge, so fonts are smaller, but it’s bright enough for most users and definitely an upgrade over older Inspire models.

Features: It tracks steps, distance, calories burned, active minutes and floors climbed. It continuously monitors heart rate and SpO₂ (for estimating blood oxygen). It auto-recognizes basic activities (walking, running, swim) and has 20+ exercise modes. It also offers sleep stage analysis and basic stress tracking. You can see call/text notifications, but there’s no music control or payments.

Best for: The Inspire 3 is best for beginners or anyone on a budget. If you want Fitbit’s reliable tracking and app but don’t need GPS or a large screen, this is a solid choice. It’s also great as an all-day step/sleep tracker for kids or seniors, or for women who prefer a slim design.

Pros:

• Bright color AMOLED display (unusual at this price).
• Extremely lightweight and comfortable 24/7.
• Excellent battery life (~10 days).
• Accurate step count and heart-rate for basic activities.
• Very affordable.

Cons:

• Small screen can feel cramped.
• No built-in GPS (requires phone).
• Lacks advanced metrics (no ECG, no NFC payments).

Buy on Amazon: Buy on Amazon

Fitbit Luxe

The Fitbit Luxe is a stylish, fashion-forward fitness tracker that looks more like jewelry than a tech gadget. It has a 0.76″ AMOLED touchscreen encased in a polished metal frame. Its display is small but vibrant, and you can swap the strap for bracelets or bands for a chic look. Despite its delicate appearance, the Luxe is water-resistant to 50m and has all the essentials: continuous heart-rate monitoring, SpO₂ tracking, and sleep/stress analysis.

Design & Display: The Luxe’s standout feature is its design. It’s slim and light (almost half an ounce) with a sleek band. The AMOLED screen remains off until you raise your wrist (no always-on mode), but it shows colorful metrics with a tap or wrist turn. You can choose silicone, leather, or metal bands to suit your style.

Features: Functionally, it’s similar to the Inspire 3 but with extra style. It tracks steps, floors, calories, all-day HR, and sleep score. It measures SpO₂ in the background during sleep (for oxygen saturation trends). There’s also menstrual health tracking for women. Like other Fitbits, it provides a daily “Stress Management Score”. The Luxe also supports Fitbit Pay via NFC, and you get a year of Fitbit Premium trials with purchase.

Best for: Luxe is best for fashion-conscious users who want basic health tracking without a bulky screen. It’s ideal as an everyday fitness tracker that can double as an attractive accessory. It won’t spoil your outfit at work or a night out. Casual exercisers who care about steps, sleep, and style will love this one.

Pros:

• Elegant, jewelry-like design (looks like a bracelet).
• Always-on pulse oximeter and stress tracking.
• Fitbit Pay support with NFC.
• Comfy and lightweight; great battery for a tiny device (5 days).

Cons:

• Very small screen (no giant notifications).
• Only 5 days battery (less than other Fitbits).
• No built-in GPS or advanced sensors (just the basics).

Buy on Amazon: Buy on Amazon

Garmin Vivoactive 6

The Garmin Vivoactive 6 is a hybrid fitness tracker/smartwatch and Garmin’s most well-rounded device. It has a 1.2″ AMOLED touchscreen and full GPS/GNSS onboard for serious workout tracking. Garmin packs this tracker with training tools: it can track over 80 sports, includes Garmin’s Body Battery® energy monitor, advanced sleep analytics, and stress/recovery guidance. In our tests, the Vivoactive 6’s screen is bright and responsive, and the watch itself is surprisingly light (only 0.8 oz). Battery lasts about 11 days (with normal use and occasional GPS), making it much longer than a typical smartwatch.

Design & Display: This has a classic watch look with a round face, metal bezel, and silicone strap. The AMOLED display is vibrant (and sunlight-readable). Buttons on the side complement the touchscreen for easier navigation.

Features: It includes built-in GPS, GLONASS, Galileo for precise location, plus altimeter and compass. It monitors HR, SpO₂, breathing, and energy. It can store music on board, supports Garmin Pay, and shows smartphone notifications. It auto-detects and logs runs, swims (it’s waterproof to 50m), bikes, yoga, golf, skiing – virtually any activity. Garmin’s Connect app and training metrics (VO₂ max, recovery, training load) are the gold standard, giving you deep insights. It’s essentially a lightweight smartwatch with a focus on fitness.

Best for: We recommend the Vivoactive 6 for athletes and active users who want smartwatch features. It’s great for runners, cyclists, swimmers, and anyone training regularly (it has onboard mapping and coaching). Garmin’s ecosystem is strong for data nerds. In short, it’s best for those who want more than a simple band but still want multi-week battery and the durability of a dedicated tracker.

Pros:

• Full GPS and 80+ sport modes for serious athletes.
• Bright AMOLED display with touchscreen and buttons.
• Long battery life for a smartwatch (~11 days).
• Advanced metrics (Body Battery, stress, recovery).
• Garmin Pay and music storage.

Cons:

• More expensive than simple bands.
• Lacks altimeter (no precise elevation tracking).
• Interface can feel complex to casual users.

Buy on Amazon: Buy on Amazon

Garmin Vivosmart 5

Image: Garmin Vivosmart 5 in mint green resting on a dumbbell. The Garmin Vivosmart 5 is a pared-down fitness band from Garmin. It’s very slim, weighing only about 0.86 ounces, and has a straightforward interface with one physical button. Its 0.41×0.73″ grayscale OLED display is small (88×154 pixels), so it’s not fancy – but the advantage is extremely long battery life for its size: about 7 days between charges. Vivosmart 5 was designed for users who love Garmin’s tracking features but don’t want a full watch on their wrist.

Design & Display: The Vivosmart 5 has a textured silicone band that’s very comfortable for all-day wear. The screen is narrow (one-line text), but it’s always on and easy to glance at your stats. The physical button wakes the display or acts as “back”. It’s water-resistant and can be worn in the pool (it will track swims in an elementary way).

Features: It has built-in sensors for heart rate, pulse oximeter (SpO₂), accelerometer, and ambient light. It tracks steps, calories, floors climbed, sleep (with SpO₂), and stress. It displays smartphone notifications (calls/texts). Notably, it connects to the Garmin Connect app, so you get Garmin’s body battery and VO₂ max estimates, albeit without GPS (the band itself has no built-in GPS). You’ll need your phone for distance. It also supports basic music controls and safety tracking.

Best for: If you already use Garmin (or want Garmin data without a watch), the Vivosmart 5 is great. It’s ideal for those who need a comfortable, unobtrusive band for basic fitness and health tracking. Because it’s so slim, it’s also a solid choice for slim wrists, older adults, or anyone who hates the bulk of watches.

Pros:

• Ultra-light and slim — you almost forget it’s there.
• Good for sleep and health monitoring (SpO₂, stress).
• Always-on display (no charging for weeks).
• Water-resistant and swims moderately.

Cons:

• Tiny monochrome screen (hard to see detailed info).
• No onboard GPS (needs phone).
• Fewer metrics than Garmin’s watches (no workouts, no altimeter).

Buy on Amazon: Buy on Amazon

Samsung Galaxy Fit3

Image: Samsung Galaxy Fit3 in white, shown on a model’s wrist. The Samsung Galaxy Fit3 is an excellent fitness tracker for Android (especially Samsung phone) users. For a budget price (~$60), it offers a large 1.6″ AMOLED touchscreen and a very long ~13-day battery. The Fit3 is more of a screen-and-band device than a watch. It’s very comfortable and simple – no crown or bezel, just touch and swipe through colorful menus.

Design & Display: It has a rectangular AMOLED display (similar to a tiny Galaxy Watch face). The screen is vibrant and easy to read. The case is light, and the included wrist strap is soft. It’s water-resistant to 50m and dust-resistant, so you can wear it swimming or in the rain.

Features: It tracks steps, calories, distance, floors, active minutes, and sleep. You get continuous heart-rate and SpO₂ monitoring. Samsung’s app offers fitness tracking for 100+ exercise modes. It automatically detects common workouts. It pairs well with Samsung Health for all-day insights. One big catch: no built-in GPS. Like other bands, it can use your phone’s GPS for mapping. You will also receive smart notifications for calls and messages. There are no complex apps or payments on board – it’s very straightforward.

Best for: The Fit3 is best for Android users who want a large, easy-to-use tracker on a budget. It’s comfortable enough to wear all day and into bed, making it great for anyone wanting detailed sleep analysis. If you prefer Samsung’s ecosystem or just want a very simple tracker with a big screen, this is a great choice.

Pros:

• Very affordable with a large AMOLED screen.
• Impressive 2-week battery life.
• Robust fitness and sleep tracking via Samsung Health.
• Comfortable for wearing 24/7 (including swim-ready).

Cons:

• Android-only (best with Samsung phones).
• No onboard GPS – needs your phone.
• Lacks advanced metrics (no ECG, no music, no NFC).

Buy on Amazon: Buy on Amazon

Amazfit Band 7

The Amazfit Band 7 is a top pick for budget-conscious buyers. With its 1.5″ AMOLED touchscreen and sleek, slim design, it looks and feels more expensive than its sub-$50 price. Tom’s Guide calls it “the best fitness tracker under $50”. It covers the basics well and even adds some extras.

Design & Display: Band 7 has a long, curved color screen (240×286 pixels) in a lightweight black or colored band. The display is always on with low power by default (so you can glance at time/steps without waking it). It’s water-resistant to 50m. Overall, it’s compact and comfortable for day and night wear.

Features: It tracks steps, heart rate, blood oxygen, sleep, stress, and female health. It supports 120 workout modes. It has built-in optical heart rate and SpO₂ sensors (no ECG). Notably, it can sync with your phone’s GPS for outdoor runs. Battery is impressive: typically up to 14 days on a charge for average use. It also offers guided breathing exercises and smartphone notifications.

Best for: We recommend Band 7 for anyone wanting a large-screen tracker on a very tight budget. It’s ideal for students, teens, or casual users who just want basic metrics and long battery life without spending much. Its bright AMOLED screen and color options make it stand out among cheap trackers.

Pros:

• Very affordable (usually under $50).
• Big, colorful AMOLED display and slim profile.
• Good battery life (~12-14 days).
• Includes SpO₂ and stress tracking (rare at this price).

Cons:

• No built-in GPS (relies on phone).
• Display not as high-res as pricier trackers (some text may look pixelated).
• No speaker/microphone – no calls or voice assist.

Buy on Amazon: Buy on Amazon

Amazfit Active 2

The Amazfit Active 2 is a budget-friendly fitness smartwatch that offers surprisingly robust features. It has a 1.32″ AMOLED touchscreen and a sleek metal case. Tom’s Guide highlights its 160+ sport modes, onboard GPS, and bright display. We found it to be a well-rounded option under $100: it even supports offline map downloads for navigation (with a quirky backtrack feature).

Design & Display: The Active 2 looks more like a watch than a simple band, with a round metal bezel and two side buttons. The 1.32-inch AMOLED is vivid (2000 nits peak!) and clear in daylight. The watch comes with a comfortable silicone strap in sporty colors. It’s rated to 5 ATM (swimproof).

Features: Besides an always-on colorful screen, it packs in on-device GPS (GLONASS, BeiDou) for tracking runs and rides without a phone. It has heart rate and SpO₂ sensors. You get sleep score and readiness metrics like “Body Battery”. It supports voice commands (offline assistant), Bluetooth calls (speaker & mic), and NFC payments. Amazfit’s Zepp OS includes AI workout planning and you can take calls from the watch. Battery life is about 6 days normal use. The main drawbacks are a somewhat quirky interface and occasional sensor hiccups (Zepp OS can be laggy).

Best for: The Active 2 is a great middle-ground for fitness enthusiasts on a budget. It suits casual gym-goers, runners, or outdoor exercisers who want GPS and music/call controls in a non-Apple package. It’s also good for anyone who likes a sporty watch design but doesn’t want to pay Garmin prices.

Pros:

• Built-in GPS and over 160 exercise modes.
• Bright 1.32″ AMOLED display with always-on option.
• Voice assistant, Bluetooth calls, and NFC (rare at this price).
• Good battery life (around 6 days).

Cons:

• Some software (maps, navigation) can be clunky to use.
• Occasional heart-rate/elevation accuracy issues.
• Limited third-party app support.

Buy on Amazon: Buy on Amazon

Amazfit Bip 3 Pro

The Amazfit Bip 3 Pro is an entry-level GPS tracker from Amazfit. It has a large 1.69″ LCD screen (240×280px) and built-in GPS (called “Assisted GPS”). Battery life is very good – about 14 days in typical use. For under $70, it’s a solid value for runners on a budget.

Design & Display: The Bip 3 Pro’s design mimics a very stripped-down smartwatch. It has a plastic case and a single side button. The 1.69″ display is readable but not super sharp (the LCD shows some pixelation). The watch is very lightweight (~35g including strap), making it comfortable to wear all day. It’s rated 5 ATM, so it’s swim-friendly.

Features: It offers built-in GPS/GLONASS for runs and rides. It tracks heart rate and SpO₂ continuously. You get all standard stats (steps, sleep stages, calories) plus some stress and breathing exercises. Amazfit advertises 60+ sports modes (running, cycling, swimming, etc.). It can show simple notifications and offers alarm/sedentary alerts. There’s no voice assistant or NFC, but you do get onboard music control buttons.

Best for: The Bip 3 Pro is best for budget runners and fitness fans who need GPS at an ultra-low price. It’s essentially a very cheap alternative to brands like Garmin or Fitbit for basic outdoor tracking. It won’t win beauty contests, but if you want long battery and GPS without spending much, it’s a strong contender.

Pros:

• Built-in GPS with phone-level accuracy.
• Extremely long battery (~2 weeks).
• Large screen and simple interface.
• Very light and comfortable.

Cons:

• Low-res LCD means visible pixels and no auto-brightness.
• Only basic data on-device (needs phone app for analysis).
• No offline maps or advanced smartwatch features.

Buy on Amazon: Buy on Amazon

Amazfit Bip 6

The Amazfit Bip 6 is an impressive budget watch that significantly upgrades the Bip line. It features a 1.97″ AMOLED display (vibrant and always-on) and tracks 140 workout types. In our evaluation, we were “seriously impressed” – its main strengths are an incredible price (~$79), comprehensive health tracking, and nearly two weeks of battery life.

Design & Display: The Bip 6 looks a lot like a pared-down smartwatch, with a sizable square touchscreen and rounded corners. The 1.97″ AMOLED screen is sharp and bright (2000 nits). The case is plastic but feels sturdy. It’s 5 ATM water-resistant for pool swims.

Features: It packs in GPS/GLONASS for outdoor tracking, built-in altimeter/barometer, heart-rate and SpO₂ sensors, and sleep and stress tracking. Unique for a cheap tracker, it offers offline maps for backtracking your route. Amazfit also provides an improved stress and sleep metrics (similar to the more expensive models). It lacks music storage and LTE, but it does have offline voice commands and offline (on-device) route navigation. Battery is rated 14 days, which we confirmed is realistic with normal use.

Best for: Bip 6 is best for fitness enthusiasts who want near-smartwatch features on a tight budget. It’s especially good for outdoorsy users – hikers and cyclists will appreciate the long battery and backtrack GPS feature. In essence, it’s ideal for anyone who wants maximum fitness function for minimal cost.

Pros:

• Massive 1.97″ AMOLED screen (for a tracker!).
• GPS, offline maps, and 140 sports modes.
• Outstanding 2-week battery life.
• Advanced stress, sleep, and health monitoring.

Cons:

• UI can be a bit slow/buggy (Zepp OS).
• No LTE or app store (no third-party apps).
• Only one physical button (some users prefer more controls).

Buy on Amazon: Buy on Amazon

Xiaomi Smart Band 9

The Xiaomi Smart Band 9 (Mi Band 9) is a perennial favorite for its extreme battery life and low cost. It has a 1.62″ AMOLED display – the largest ever in a Mi Band – and packs in a surprising number of features. As the Stuff.tv review notes, it’s “a cheap and cheerful tracker with an amazing number of features”. Indeed, it offers accurate step and sleep tracking, continuous heart-rate and SpO₂ sensors, and an incredible ~21 days of battery.

Design & Display: It has a pill-shaped case with a curved screen and a replaceable silicone band. The larger screen is colorful and sharp, and you can switch clock faces. It’s also very lightweight (just 13.5g for the band). The interface is intuitive: swipe through your stats and quick replies to messages.

Features: Besides the basics (steps, calories, HR, SpO₂, sleep), it includes automatic stress monitoring, guided breathing, and 150+ sports modes. It shows notifications and can control music. One of its best features is battery: up to three weeks on a charge under normal use. (In heavy use it’s still about 2 weeks.) It also has NFC in some variants, and a handy “find my phone” or “weather” quick card.

Best for: Mi Band 9 is ideal for bargain hunters. If you want a tracker that covers all the essentials (heart rate, sleep, steps) and lasts forever, this is it. It’s especially great for beginners or anyone who hates charging. We also like it for kids or seniors, since it’s durable and has easy-to-read stats.

Pros:

• Huge battery life (~21 days).
• Large bright screen for a band.
• Very accurate steps and heart-rate (per tests).
• Extremely low price for value (often <$50).

Cons:

• No built-in GPS (phone dependent).
• Basic UI (no app store, limited customization).
• Only 5 ATM waterproof (no swimming tracking except via sports mode).

Buy on Amazon: Buy on Amazon

Huawei Band 7

Huawei’s Band 7 is a standout in the cheap-tracker crowd. Stuff magazine calls it “a real powerhouse for a small price”. It sports a huge 1.47″ AMOLED touchscreen, which is generous compared to other budget bands. The interface is snappy, and you get the convenience of a big, vivid display for reading notifications and stats.

Design & Display: Band 7 looks more like a slim fitness watch than a traditional band. The AMOLED screen has sharp resolution, and the aluminum case looks premium. It’s very slim (only ~9.99mm thick) and light, so you barely notice it on your wrist. It’s rated 5 ATM for swimming.

Features: It includes 96 sports modes and covers all basics: 24/7 heart rate, SpO₂, stress, and sleep (with detailed sleep tracking). It uses Huawei’s TruSeen 4.0 sensor for more accurate HR data. Crucially, it can leverage your phone’s GPS (Connected GPS) to track runs or bike rides. Battery life is solid – up to 14 days on typical use. It also adds extras like breathing exercises and remote phone camera shutter.

Best for: We suggest the Huawei Band 7 for anyone needing a large-screen tracker on a super-tight budget. It’s great for students or workers who want an unobtrusive tracker with top-notch screen quality. Because of its big display, it’s especially nice for anyone who uses the screen a lot (like reading messages or metrics). The Band 7 is our pick for best cheap tracker overall.

Pros:

• Very large 1.47″ AMOLED display – easy to read.
• Good battery (~10–14 days).
• Comprehensive fitness tracking (SpO₂, HR, sleep).
• Phone GPS connectivity for outdoor workouts.

Cons:

• No built-in GPS (relies on phone).
• Huawei’s app can be buggy (especially on non-Huawei phones).
• Limited third-party app ecosystem (basic functionality only).

Buy on Amazon: Buy on Amazon

Whoop 4.0

The Whoop 4.0 is not your typical fitness tracker: it’s a “screenless” wearable focused entirely on 24/7 strain and recovery tracking. It’s essentially a high-end band (or strap) with no display. Instead, Whoop continuously measures heart rate, HRV, SpO₂, skin temperature, and movement. Whoop’s strength is in analyzing your sleep and daily exertion to give you a Recovery Score each morning. This helps athletes know when to push hard or when to rest.

Design & Display: Whoop 4.0 is a very lightweight band (about 0.56 oz) that you wear constantly (even in bed). It has no buttons or screen – everything is viewed in the app or web dashboard. It’s water-resistant to 5 ATM. There is also an optional solar charger attachment for extending battery life on the go.

Features: In continuous mode, Whoop 4.0 tracks every heartbeat and oxygen level, plus tracks sleep stages and latency. It automatically logs strain from activities by estimating output from heart rate. Its core features are Strain Score, Recovery Score, and Sleep Score. The data is highly detailed (e.g. time in REM, core HR, HRV). There are no notifications or quick glances – you have to check your phone app.

Best for: Whoop is best for serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts who want in-depth physiological insights. It’s used by pro sports teams and Olympic athletes. If you’re training hard and want to optimize recovery and sleep, this device (and its coaching feedback) is unmatched. Casual users might find its depth overkill.

Pros:

• Unobtrusive design (no display – zero distractions).
• Comprehensive 24/7 tracking (even HRV and skin temp).
• Actionable insights on strain and recovery (truly unique).
• Up to 5 days battery life on a charge.

Cons:

• Must subscribe ($30/month) – no one-time purchase.
• No display or on-device data (must use app).
• Band can feel bulky on smaller wrists.

Buy on Amazon: Buy on Amazon

Oura Ring Gen 4

The Oura Ring (Gen 4) reimagines fitness tracking as a ring. It packs many sensors into a sleek titanium ring you wear on your finger. It tracks sleep (even sleep apnea indicators), activity, heart rate, HRV, SpO₂, and even body temperature. Since it has no screen, it’s completely unobtrusive – nobody can tell you’re wearing a tracker unless you tell them.

Design & Display: Oura Ring Gen 4 comes in several finishes (silver, black, gold) and sizes. It looks like an ordinary modern ring. There’s no display: all data is synced to your phone via the app. The ring weighs only ~4–6 grams. It’s waterproof to 100m, so you can shower or swim in it.

Features: The Gen 4 adds new sensors (seven infrared LEDs, improved PPG for heart rate and SpO₂, plus temperature) compared to Gen 3. It provides a Readiness score each morning, based on your sleep, recovery, and daily movement. Its sleep tracking is often cited as very accurate, including giving a Sleep Score and breakdown of sleep stages. It also tracks workouts (steps, calories, etc.), though it has no direct GPS (it estimates distance by motion). A key selling point is the ring’s multi-day battery (about 7–8 days) and the fact that it doesn’t disturb you during sleep like a bulky watch might.

Best for: Oura Ring is best for those who want continuous health monitoring but hate wearing a wristband. It’s ideal if you need discreet tracking (e.g. at work events) or you prefer sleeping without something on your wrist. It’s also great for people focused on optimizing sleep and recovery. However, it’s pricey, and the data is more wellness-oriented (not focused on sport metrics).

Pros:

• True 24/7 tracking in a ring form (very unobtrusive).
• Exceptional sleep analysis and recovery metrics.
• Tracks body temperature and HRV for deep insights.
• Light and water-resistant (100m).
• Up to ~8 days battery.

Cons:

• Expensive (ring + $ subscription for full data).
• No visible display – all feedback via app.
• Can feel tight or bulky on smaller fingers.

Buy on Amazon: Buy on Amazon

Withings ScanWatch 2

The Withings ScanWatch 2 is a hybrid fitness tracker – it looks like a traditional analog watch but has hidden smart sensors. Withings is well-known for combining style with health features. This model adds upgraded sensors to the needle-and-display format. It tracks steps, heart rate, SpO₂, body temperature, and even ECG/arrhythmia detection. Uniquely, it has only a tiny digital PMOLED sub-display, so most of the face is a classic clock.

Design & Display: The ScanWatch 2 retains a stainless-steel case and sapphire glass over an analog dial. It comes in 38mm or 42mm sizes. A small round OLED window shows digital data (time, heart rate number, etc.). It’s a handsome, business-casual look – great for those who want a classic watch vibe.

Features: Under the dial, it measures PPG heart rate and SpO₂ (blue LED + infrared). It can take on-demand ECGs via the watch bezel and digital crown. It also tracks sleep stages and snoring detection. It alerts you to irregular heart rhythms. Battery life is exceptional: up to 30 days on a single charge. It shows basic notifications from your phone as well (caller ID, etc.).

Best for: We recommend ScanWatch 2 for people who want a traditional watch style plus fitness tracking. It’s perfect for the office or formal events – you won’t feel like you’re in workout gear. Fitness-wise, it’s great for health monitoring (ECG and SpO₂) and moderate activity tracking. It’s not for serious athletes (no built-in GPS or sports apps), but it’s one of the most capable hybrid trackers for overall health.

Pros:

• Classic analog appearance with smart metrics hidden.
• Advanced sensors (ECG, SpO₂, temperature) not usually in trackers.
• Excellent battery life (around a month).
• Swimproof and well-made.

Cons:

• Very minimal on-device display (hardly any data on watch face).
• No built-in GPS or onboard workouts.
• Expensive for a ‘tracker’ (since it’s a full watch).

Buy on Amazon: Buy on Amazon

Who’s Who in 2025: Which Tracker is Best for You?

Every fitness tracker has its sweet spot. Below we summarize who each of our 15 picks is best suited for:

• Fitbit Charge 6: The all-round champion – best for everyday fitness and health tracking. Great for runners and outdoor workouts (has GPS) and works well for both beginners and tech-savvy users.
• Fitbit Inspire 3: Best for beginners and budget buyers who want core tracking (steps, sleep) and long battery.
• Fitbit Luxe: Best for fashion-conscious users – stylish design with basic tracking for casual fitness.
• Garmin Vivoactive 6: Best for serious athletes and triathletes who want robust training features (GPS, altimeter, Body Battery, music). Ideal for those who want smartwatch perks plus Garmin’s ecosystem.
• Garmin Vivosmart 5: Best for Garmin fans who want a discreet band instead of a watch. Perfect for monitoring health without paying for a watch. Great for desk workers and light exercisers.
• Samsung Galaxy Fit3: Best for Android (especially Samsung) users on a budget. It offers a big, beautiful screen and long battery for basic health/sleep tracking.
• Amazfit Band 7: Best cheap tracker with a big display and long battery. Perfect for kids, students, or anyone needing an inexpensive band that still tracks HR and sleep.
• Amazfit Active 2: Best for budget fitness-watch seekers. It has GPS and many smartwatch features (calls, music, payments) at a low cost, so good for active users who want extra tech.
• Amazfit Bip 3 Pro: Best for budget runners. Built-in GPS and 2-week battery make it excellent for those who run or cycle on a budget.
• Amazfit Bip 6: Best for fitness enthusiasts on a budget. It improves on Bip 3 Pro with a huge AMOLED screen and advanced tracking for nearly smartwatch-level features.
• Xiaomi Smart Band 9: Best for battery life nuts. If you want a tracker that barely needs charging, go with this. It’s also great for casual users who just want step counts and sleep stats without fuss.
• Huawei Band 7: Best value budget tracker with a large screen. It’s also a great choice if you want lots of color and style for little money.
• Whoop 4.0: Best for athletes and fitness pros. It’s focused on recovery and performance – not a casual user’s tracker.
• Oura Ring Gen 4: Best for those who hate wristbands or want ultra-discreet tracking. Also excellent for maximizing sleep and recovery.
• Withings ScanWatch 2: Best for fashion/style lovers who want health features. If you want real watch looks with ECG and SpO₂, this is your pick.

No matter your goals – marathon training, weight loss, or just staying active – one of these 15 trackers should fit the bill. We recommend matching the tracker to your lifestyle (e.g. a Garmin for outdoors, a Whoop for recovery focus, or a simple band for general health).

FAQ

Q: Are fitness trackers accurate? We’ve found that most modern trackers are reasonably accurate for basic metrics like steps and heart rate during steady exercise. For example, Fitbit and Garmin devices have been validated in studies for step-count and heart-rate accuracy. However, no wrist sensor matches a chest strap or medical device exactly. Variations can occur during rapid movement or very intense workouts. Generally, trackers are best for trends (e.g. more steps one day than the last), not absolute values. Sleep and SpO₂ tracking are improving, but should be taken as estimates, not diagnoses.

Q: Which fitness tracker has the best battery life? In practice, the longest-lasting trackers are basic bands without big screens. In our list, devices like the Xiaomi Band 9 or Withings ScanWatch 2 last several weeks (around 14–30 days!). Budget OLED bands like Huawei Band 7 or Amazfit Bip 3 Pro claim ~2 weeks. Whoop and Oura ring last about 5–8 days. Premium watches like the Garmin Vivoactive 6 recharge weekly or more often. So if battery is king, pick a band-style tracker.

Q: Do I need a fitness tracker or a smartwatch? It depends on your goals. Dedicated fitness trackers (no or simple screens) generally have much longer battery life and focus on health data. Smartwatches (like Apple Watch or Garmin Venu) offer apps, music, and cellular, but often only 1–2 days battery. If you only need activity data (steps, HR, sleep), a tracker is enough and charges less. If you want apps, calls on wrist, or need an ecosystem (e.g. Apple or Samsung), a smartwatch might suit you. We leaned toward trackers in this article because the audience asked for “fitness trackers” and we focused on their fitness features.

Q: Is built-in GPS important in a tracker? Onboard GPS means the tracker can record routes and distance without a phone, which is great for running, biking, or hiking. Charge 6, Garmin Vivoactive 6, Amazfit Bip models all have GPS. Trackers without GPS (Fitbit Inspire 3, Samsung Fit3, etc.) rely on your phone’s GPS for mapping. If you frequently exercise outdoors without your phone, built-in GPS is a big plus. If you mostly use phone-based apps, you can skip it and save battery.

Q: What sensors should I look for? At minimum, most trackers have an accelerometer, heart-rate monitor, and sometimes SpO₂. More advanced trackers add ECG (Fitbit Charge 6, Withings) or skin temperature (Whoop, Oura). If you have health concerns (like irregular heartbeat), ECG can be valuable. For general fitness, 24/7 HR and sleep tracking with occasional SpO₂ are adequate.

We hope these reviews and tips help you pick a fitness tracker that fits your lifestyle. For most people, “best” means matching your specific needs – whether that’s battery life, design, or advanced metrics. Happy tracking!