“According to the Data, the market capitalization of global fitness tracker was valued at $53.94 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow from $62.03 billion in 2024 to $290.85 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 21.3% during the forecast period (2024-2032).”
Hence, the fitness trackers have become indispensable for health enthusiasts and everyday individuals alike. Whether you’re looking to monitor your heart rate, track your sleep, or set fitness goals, the right fitness tracker can make a significant difference in achieving your health and wellness objectives.
With an array of options on the market, choosing the best fitness tracker for your needs can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll explore the best fitness trackers for every budget and lifestyle, ensuring that there’s a perfect fit for everyone.
What to Look for in the Best Fitness Tracker?
Before we dive into the best fitness trackers for various budgets and lifestyles, it’s important to understand what features matter most when choosing one. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Activity Tracking: Most fitness trackers measure basic metrics such as steps, distance, and calories burned, but some models go beyond that, offering advanced features like GPS tracking, cadence, and elevation.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: A continuous heart rate monitor can help you stay in your target fitness zones and track your cardiovascular health over time.
- Sleep Tracking: For a holistic approach to health, many fitness trackers now offer sleep tracking to monitor sleep quality, duration, and cycles.
- Battery Life: Depending on your activity levels, battery life can vary significantly. Some fitness trackers last up to a few days, while others can run for weeks on a single charge.
- Design and Comfort: The design of the fitness tracker is crucial, as you’ll be wearing it on your wrist daily. A lightweight, comfortable, and stylish tracker is ideal.
- Price: Fitness trackers range from budget-friendly options to high-end devices with premium features. It’s important to find one that fits your budget and offers the features you need.
Now that we know what to look for, let’s break down the best fitness trackers available based on different budget categories and lifestyles.
Best Fitness Trackers Under $50
For those on a budget but still looking for a functional fitness tracker, there are a few great options to consider. These trackers won’t break the bank but still provide essential features for a healthy lifestyle.
1. Xiaomi Mi Band 7
The Xiaomi Mi Band 7 is an excellent budget-friendly option that offers a solid mix of features. This fitness tracker has a large AMOLED display, continuous heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and the ability to track your workouts. It also includes a SpO2 sensor to measure blood oxygen levels, which is a great addition for a tracker in this price range. With up to 14 days of battery life, the Mi Band 7 is perfect for those who want an affordable, no-frills fitness tracker.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable | Limited GPS functionality (needs your phone) |
| AMOLED screen | No third-party app integrations |
| 14-day battery life | |
| Sleep and heart rate tracking |
2. Fitbit Inspire 2
Fitbit is a household name in fitness tracking, and the Fitbit Inspire 2 is one of their most affordable models. It’s simple to use, offers heart rate monitoring, and provides a detailed overview of your activity levels, calories burned, and sleep stages. The Inspire 2 also comes with a one-year free subscription to Fitbit Premium, which offers additional data insights and guided fitness programs.
| Pros | Cons |
| Accurate heart rate monitoring | Lacks built-in GPS |
| Water-resistant | Smaller display compared to other models |
| Sleep tracking | |
| Fitbit Premium free for one year |
Best Fitness Trackers Between $100 and $200
If you’re willing to spend a bit more, there are trackers that offer additional features, such as built-in GPS, better screen resolution, and more advanced fitness tracking capabilities.
3. Garmin Vivosmart 5
The Garmin Vivosmart 5 is one of the best fitness trackers in the mid-range price category. It boasts a sleek design and advanced features, including heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and stress tracking. Additionally, the Vivosmart 5 offers a Pulse Ox sensor to monitor blood oxygen levels and a body battery feature that tracks your energy levels throughout the day. Garmin’s app also provides in-depth data and analytics, making this an ideal choice for anyone looking to get serious about their health.
| Pros | Cons |
| Advanced tracking features (sleep, stress, body battery) | Small screen for detailed data review |
| 7-day battery life | Limited smartwatch functions |
| Great app support for data analysis | |
| Slim and stylish design |
4. Fitbit Charge 5
The Fitbit Charge 5 is an excellent step up from the Inspire series, offering more comprehensive health and fitness features. This tracker comes with built-in GPS, continuous heart rate monitoring, stress management tools, and sleep tracking. It also features an ECG app that allows you to monitor your heart rhythm, which can be particularly beneficial for those with heart health concerns. The bright AMOLED touchscreen and up to 7 days of battery life make it a versatile option for those looking for a balance of style and function.
| Pros | Cons |
| Built-in GPS | Premium features require a Fitbit Premium subscription |
| ECG app for heart health | Somewhat bulky design for smaller wrists |
| Comprehensive health tracking (stress, heart rate, sleep) | |
| AMOLED display |
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Best Fitness Trackers Above $200
If you’re looking for a premium experience with advanced features, the higher-end fitness trackers offer the best performance, design, and functionality. These trackers are perfect for those with specific fitness goals or athletes who need detailed analytics.
5. Apple Watch Series 8
The Apple Watch Series 8 is undoubtedly one of the best fitness trackers available for those who are willing to invest more in their health. It’s a smartwatch with fitness tracking capabilities, providing everything from heart rate monitoring to advanced sleep tracking, and includes an ECG and blood oxygen sensor. The Apple Watch also supports GPS tracking, making it ideal for outdoor workouts. Plus, with the ability to stream music, take calls, and use apps, it provides a seamless experience both inside and outside the gym.
| Pros | Cons |
| Comprehensive fitness and health tracking | Expensive |
| Sleek, high-quality design | Battery life lasts only up to 18 hours |
| Integration with iPhone and Apple ecosystem | |
| Built-in GPS and ECG |
6. Garmin Forerunner 955
For those who want a serious fitness tracker for sports and outdoor activities, the Garmin Forerunner 955 is one of the best options available. This watch is designed for runners and athletes, offering advanced metrics like VO2 max, lactate threshold, and real-time performance insights. It also includes multi-sport modes, including cycling, swimming, and triathlon tracking, as well as built-in GPS. The Forerunner 955 excels at tracking outdoor activities, making it the perfect choice for athletes and adventurers.
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent for athletes (multi-sport modes) | Expensive |
| Built-in GPS and mapping | Bulky design may not appeal to everyone |
| Long battery life (up to 15 days) | |
| Advanced health and fitness metrics |
Wrapping Up
Finding the best fitness tracker depends largely on your needs and budget. If you’re new to fitness tracking or simply want a reliable device for tracking basic metrics, options like the Xiaomi Mi Band 7 or Fitbit Inspire 2 offer great value for money. For those who need more advanced features, the Garmin Vivosmart 5 and Fitbit Charge 5 provide in-depth analytics and extra features like built-in GPS. And for those who want top-tier performance and are willing to invest in a premium tracker, the Apple Watch Series 8 and Garmin Forerunner 955 deliver unparalleled fitness tracking capabilities with additional smartwatch features.
No matter your lifestyle or fitness goals, there’s a perfect fitness tracker out there for you. Whether you’re just getting started or are a seasoned athlete, finding a tracker that meets your needs can enhance your fitness journey and help you reach your health goals more effectively.
