Best fitness trackers and health gadgets for 2025
Tracking information like movement, steps and heart rate are all part of the quantified self movement which has gained enormously in popularity in recent years.
With so many wearables on the market, choosing a fitness tracker or smartwatch can be difficult. The right one for you will be based on your individual needs; whether it’s step counting, sleep tracking or 24/7 heart rate tracking, there’s something for everyone.
We’ve seen quite a few new wearables recently. Read on for our pick of the best, broken down across various categories (this article is updated regularly).
Jump to best
Overall fitness band | For style | For running | For outdoors | Fitness watch | Budget fitness tracker | For stress | Smartwatch | Smart ring | Smart scale | Smart blood pressure monitor | For sleep tracking
Best fitness band for the average person
Winner
Fitbit Charge 6
Despite being a couple of years old, the Fitbit Charge 6 is still the most feature packed fitness band on the market. This device continues to be our top pick for the average person who engages in occasional physical activities, especially given its competitive pricing.
The Charge 6 has a sleek design, a hallmark of the Charge series that we’ve favored for years. The device is crafted from 100% recycled aluminum, aligning with the growing consumer demand for sustainable products. It reintroduces a haptic physical button, addressing user feedback about the touchscreen-only interface of the Charge 5.
This latest iteration offers everything you’d expect for 24/7 activity tracking. One of the standout features is its enhanced heart rate monitoring, which utilizes Google’s improved algorithms to deliver up to 60% more accurate data during intense activities. While it still lacks an altimeter for counting floors climbed, it compensates with advanced health tracking features like ECG, detailed stress tracking, and the Daily Readiness Score.
Battery life remains consistent with a 7-day span, and the 5 ATM water-resistance is unchanged. When GPS is active, you can expect around 5 hours of battery life.
The smart features have seen significant improvements, further blurring the line between a fitness tracker and a smartwatch. The Charge 6 offers Google Wallet support for payments, Google Maps integration with turn-by-turn directions, and even YouTube Music controls. This is a step up from the Charge 5, which had a more limited set of smart features, primarily Fitbit Pay and basic notifications.
Runner up
Polar Loop
Polar’s new Loop fitness band takes a minimalist route, removing the screen and subscription model entirely. It focuses only on core health tracking features like heart rate, sleep and daily movement. Everything is included from day one, with no hidden costs or paywalls, and updates will come via firmware rather than premium tiers.
The Loop doesn’t show you stats or time. There are no alerts, no buzzing and no prompts to do anything. This is a tracker for people who want to collect data without being bothered by it throughout the day. Instead of encouraging real-time interaction, it gathers heart rate and motion data silently and syncs with the Polar Flow app when you choose. It’s a digital detox wrapped in a wristband.
Under the hood, it runs Polar’s Gen 3.5 heart rate sensor and tracks training load, sleep quality and daily recovery. While it lacks GPS or SpO2 tracking, it does carry the essentials and lasts around eight days per charge. The app experience is still rooted in Polar Flow, which may feel outdated compared to Whoop, but updates are reportedly on the way. At $200, the Loop is priced competitively for those seeking a stripped-down, screenless option that still respects data quality.
Best hybrid
Winner
Withings ScanWatch 2
The Withings ScanWatch 2 epitomizes the concept of a hybrid watch, seamlessly blending traditional aesthetics with modern health tracking capabilities. Its design is both elegant and discreet, featuring physical hands on a 0.63-inch grayscale OLED screen. This allows it to maintain the classic look of a traditional watch while providing the functionality of a smartwatch. The dial is protected by sapphire crystal, and the case and crown are crafted from stainless steel, adding a touch of durability and class. Multiple color and design options further enhance its appeal, making it a versatile choice for those who value both form and function.
While the ScanWatch 2 is packed with advanced features like 24/7 body temperature monitoring and heart rate variability, it doesn’t compromise on battery life. The device offers an impressive 30-day battery life, facilitated by the new PowerSense Pro feature that optimizes health measurements to conserve energy. This long battery life is particularly beneficial for continuous health monitoring, including sleep patterns and stress levels.
The introduction of new health metrics, such as menstrual cycle tracking and automatic activity recognition for over 40 different activities, makes the ScanWatch 2 a comprehensive health monitoring tool. It’s not just a smartwatch or a fitness tracker; it’s a hybrid that offers the best of both worlds.
Runner-up
Garmin Vivomove 3
You no longer need to compromise fashion for function. Vivomove 3 is a hybrid watch that comes in a number of different variants. This includes the Vívomove 3/3S (to denote two case sizes – 44mm and 39mm), Vívomove Style and Vívomove Luxe.
Notifications are shown on the beautiful 8.9 mm x 18.3 mm OLED display on 3/3s (24.1 mm x 18.7 mm on Style/Luxe). You can even send quick replies. The watch hands move out of the way when you swipe through your messages, heart rate and more for unobstructed reading.
When the display is off, there is no way of telling that this is anything but a sleek looking traditional watch. Tap firmly on the thing or quickly turn your wrist and the display magically appears.
Packing a heart rate monitor, barometric altimeter, accelerometer, ambient light sensor and Pulse Ox, these watches come packing excellent fitness tracking smarts. There’s also Connected GPS for more precise tracking of outdoor activity and a swim-proof design. Battery life is up to 5 days in smartwatch mode and a further 7 days in with limited functionality.
Best for running
Garmin Forerunner 955 and up
The high-end Forerunner represent fully featured running and triathlon GPS sports watches. Anything above version 955 is fine. You will find the usual Elevate wrist-based heart rate for 24/7 heart rate monitoring, and GPS and GLONASS coverage. Additionally, the wearable sports a barometer, altimeter, and a compass.
As noted in my review, where the watch stands out most is in its detailed analysis of performance. The Forerunner aggregates past training results and then uses that data to evaluate the amount of effort users exert during fitness sessions, i.e. if you are slacking off or overdoing it. It does this through a few different metrics.
Training load looks at users’ exercise activity over the last seven days and compares it to the optimal range for your fitness and recent training history. Training status does the same thing with a more short-term view, and lets you know if you’re training productively, peaking or overreaching. Additionally, the training effect metric tracks and reviews the aerobic and anaerobic benefit of a training session. There are also other advanced dynamics for running, cycling and swimming, including FTP, VO2 max, cadence and others.
Then we have HRV Status and the Training Readiness Score. The first tracks your heart rate variability while you sleep and compares it with a 7 day and long term average. The second spits out a score on a scale to 100, that quantifies how ready you are to train on a particular day.
And let’s not forget the Forerunner 965 and 970. Essentially the same watch as the 955, only with a fancy AMOLED display. The 970 isn’t a total rework of the 965. But if you’ve been holding out for better materials, added training depth, or wider sport coverage, it might just be enough to tip the scale.
Best for outdoors
Winner
Garmin Fenix 8 range
This is the ultimate outdoor adventuring watch. You can choose between multiple models that vary in size to fit every wrist and every workout. The watch features most things you would want for fitness training plus feature sets for outdoor navigation.
The timepiece is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who are into multi sports and want to be able to track everything. You can use it for cycling, open water swimming, cross country skiing, climbing, indoor run/bike/swim, hiking and much more.
In addition to heart rate tracking from the wrist, the watch provides advanced running metrics including vertical oscillation and vertical ratio, VO2 max and a recovery advisor. Outdoor navigation includes things like 3-axis compass, altimeter and barometer and TracBack feature.
You can choose between iterations with a MIP display, or an AMOLED display. The latter replaces the Epix 2 line. Those that want to save a few bucks can opt for the Fenix 8 E.
Garmin has also launched recently two Fenix 8 Pro versions: a standard AMOLED model (47mm and 51mm) priced from $1,120, and a premium 51mm MicroLED model with satellite and LTE features for $2,000.
Runner up
Apple Watch Ultra 3
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel but gives Apple’s most rugged watch a nice polish. The display is the biggest yet on an Apple Watch, and it’s smoother too, thanks to a faster refresh and better OLED tech. It still runs in always-on mode, but now it’s more battery friendly.
You also get 5G for the first time, plus satellite connectivity for SOS alerts and location sharing. Messaging through satellite works too, but only if you’ve got a cellular plan. Battery life is up slightly, with up to 42 hours in normal mode and more if you dial it back. Quick charging means 15 minutes gives you 12 hours, which is handy.
All this makes the Ultra 3 even more suited for outdoor adventures. It’s not a dramatic leap over the Ultra 2, but the changes feel solid. Price starts at $799, same as before. If you liked the Ultra line already, this one will feel like a smart upgrade.
Best fitness tracker watch
Winner
Garmin Venu 3
Venu 3 is Garmin’s Swiss knife of activity trackers, the company’s main competitor in the all-purpose smartwatch space. Plus it looks great.
The device sets itself apart with a range of features that cater to a broad spectrum of users. One of its most compelling attributes is the flexibility it offers in terms of design and display. Unlike its predecessor, the Venu 2 Plus, the Venu 3 comes in two sizes, allowing for a more personalized fit. Coupled with a lighter weight due to its fiber-reinforced polymer casing, this smartwatch is designed for comfort during extended wear.
Battery life is another area where the Venu 3 excels. It offers up to 14 days of battery life in smartwatch mode with the display always-on. This excellent battery life makes the Venu 3 a reliable companion for those who don’t want to be tethered to a charger frequently.
New features like Sleep Coach, Nap Detection, and Jet Lag Adviser add layers of functionality absent in most Garmin watches. The Sleep Coach, for instance, doesn’t just track sleep patterns but provides actionable insights for improving sleep quality.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, the Venu 3 offers a well-rounded feature set that justifies its position as a top fitness watch recommendation.
Runner-up
Fitbit Versa 4 (& Sense 2)
Versa is Fitbit’s second smartwatch. The device is up to generation four now so has advanced quite a bit since that first iteration a number of years ago.
When it comes to features, this is a timepiece that puts fitness first. It includes most of the things you would expect from a Fitbit device, along with capturing real-time stats on a plethora of different types of activities including swimming. And you’ll be able to keep tabs on all this in real-time on the gorgeous hi-res AMOLED touchscreen.
There is also access to various music streaming services (some of which allow for downloading of tunes), smartphone notifications, Fitbit pay and Alexa built-in. The App Gallery has Strava, Accuweather, Flipboard, Starbucks and more.
Those that want more can opt for Fitbit Sense or Sense 2. That range comes with everything that you can find on Versa 4 plus some additional health tracking smarts in the form of ECG and a galvanic skin sensor. These additions make it a more serious health tracking device.
Best budget fitness tracker
Xiaomi Mi Band 10
The Xiaomi Smart Band 10 has some handy smart features to its fitness tracking. You get reliable notifications for calls, messages and apps, made easier to read on the larger 1.72-inch display. Animated watch faces are more plentiful now, and the upgraded vibration motor means you can customise how different alerts feel on your wrist.
That motor also adds haptic feedback for things like scrolling or gestures, which makes navigation feel more responsive. Beyond alerts, there’s a solid set of tools built in: weather updates, timers, alarms and a dual-mode flashlight. Music controls are present too, but there’s still no onboard storage, so everything runs through your phone.
One downside is NFC. While technically supported, it only works on the China version, so contactless payments are still off-limits for most users. It’s a useful feature in theory, but not something most people will be able to take advantage of. Still, for everyday use, the smart extras here feel like enough.
Best for stress and meditation
Muse 2
Muse is a headset that gives users real-time feedback on what is happening inside their brain while they meditate. The first generation device detects changes by using seven EEG sensors along the scalp. Muse 2 slaps on a heart rate monitor, accelerometer for body movement and breath for even better tracking. It now provides you with a more holistic view of your sessions.
While you meditate, the headband measures whether your mind is calm or active, and translates that data into sound that you can hear. When you’re calm, you’ll hear the sound of peaceful weather. If Muse senses your mind wandering, you’ll hear the weather sounds get stronger, gently guiding you back to calm.
Muse 2 is as good as it gets right now if you’re looking for a biofeedback meditation headset. It might not be for everyone, but if you have the budget and your aim is to meditate more and improve your focus, the device certainly can help.
Best smartwatch
Apple Watch Series 11
The Apple Watch Series 11 brings a thinner design, 5G connectivity and key health updates, including a new background hypertension alert system. This feature scans 30 days of heart data to flag signs of high blood pressure, though it doesn’t give exact readings. It’s launching in 150 countries and will also roll out to Series 9 and Ultra 2 watches. Battery life is now up to 24 hours, and the screen gets two new exclusive watch faces.
Sleep tracking also gets an upgrade, with the addition of a daily sleep score, better classification and more detailed insights. These changes come as part of watchOS 26, which arrives on September 15 and powers all three new watches. Other small refinements include improved scratch resistance and better cellular performance in poor coverage areas.
The Series 11 keeps Apple’s focus on health and usability while adding new tools behind the scenes rather than flashy sensors. The hypertension alerts were trained on over 100,000 users and validated through clinical studies, and Apple expects the feature to help uncover undiagnosed cases globally. Still, it’s not a replacement for a cuff-based monitor.
The watch comes in 42mm and 46mm sizes, with a choice of aluminium or titanium cases. Prices start at $399, and both Wi-Fi and cellular models are available. Pre-orders are live now, with shipping set to begin September 19.
Best smart ring
RingConn Gen 2
RingConn Gen 2 is a compelling smart ring, particularly for those focused on recovery tracking. Its stylish design and simple setup make it an appealing option for many users. The accompanying app, though packed with information, offers in-depth insights and integrates with popular health platforms.
As noted in our hands-on review, RingConn’s accuracy is notable in its recovery statistics, closely matching established competitors like Whoop in resting heart rate, heart rate variability, and sleep tracking. While exercise heart rate tracking needs improvement, the company’s commitment to updates is promising.
Overall, RingConn impresses with its features, hardware, and performance, providing a viable alternative to the Oura Ring at a lower price and without subscription fees. Other options worth checking out include the Amazfit Helio Ring and Ultrahuman Ring Air.
If you’re looking for a discreet alternative to wrist wearables and prioritize recovery data, the RingConn is a great choice.It can be purchased for $299 on Kickstarter (check availability on the manufacturer’s website with a $10 discount using code BFD50EC113).
Best smart scale
Withings Body Smart
The Withings Body Smart scale offers a balanced mix of affordability and functionality, making it a solid choice for those looking to monitor a variety of health metrics. With a sleek design and user-friendly interface, the scale provides accurate weight measurements down to two decimal points. It also offers a range of other health metrics like body fat percentage, muscle mass, and more, although these should be taken as estimates rather than precise measurements.
Connectivity is seamless with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth options, and the scale can store up to 16 weigh-ins if it can’t sync wirelessly. The device is powered by four AAA batteries, which should last up to 15 months, although the lack of a rechargeable battery might be a downside for some. The scale can recognize up to eight users, making it suitable for family use.
In summary, for a retail price of just $99, the Withings Body Smart scale delivers on its promises. As we note in our hands-on review, it’s a reliable, accurate, and easy-to-use tool for anyone looking to keep a closer eye on their health. While it may not have all the advanced features of its pricier counterparts, it offers great value for the money.
Best smart blood pressure monitor
Withings BPM Core
Honored with a CES Innovation Award, Withings Core functions as a BPM, ECG and digital stethoscope. ECG is used to identify atrial fibrillation (AFib), a serious form of irregular heart rhythm that can lead to heart failure and is a major risk for stroke. The digital stethoscope can provide early detection of valvular heart disease. The condition is characterized by damage to one of the four heart valves and may require surgical intervention.
The ability to monitor all three conditions (high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation and valvular heart disease), with one product definitely sounds like a game changer. You’ll essentially get a complete heart health checkup in 90 seconds.
You can check out our full hands-on review on this link.
Omron EVOLV
Omron is one of the most established brands on the home BPM market. Its EVOLV device is a sleek looking one-piece monitor which has no tabletop unit, no tubes and no wires. Because of this the product is highly portable and easy to operate.
Users wrap the entire unit around their upper arm and the blood pressure reading is displayed in bold numbers right on the face of the device. EVOLV provides you with a complete view of your blood pressure with systolic, diastolic and pulse readings. It also detects the appearance of irregular heartbeats during measurement and gives a warning signal with readings.
This is BPM that you can use it completely independently of your smartphone. All you are required to do to take a reading is press one button.
With this device Omron has married their accurate technology with connectivity. In our hands-on review, we found it to be accurate, and the operation to be very smooth, fast and noiseless.
Best sleep tracker
Withings Sleep Analyzer
Withings Sleep Analyzer slips under the mattress from where it tracks all aspects of your nightly (and daily) rest. The company says after 3 days of use, more than a half of users increase their amount of sleep by an average of 48 minutes per night for the next 3 nights. Not bad, as most people are chronically sleep deprived.
The thing lies incognito under your mattress with no buttons to push or need to charge. Jump into bed, and go to sleep. This is exactly what you want – a no hassle tracker that you forget is even there.
The device captures a wealth of stats. Everything from sleep cycles, to interruptions, sleep heart rate, snoring, breathing disturbances and even sleep apnea – it’s all there. In our review we found that it does this accurately even though it lies under a thick mattress. The data it collects automatically makes its way to the app on your phone so is ready to be viewed in the morning.
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Can u suggest any wearable devices which is help ful in parkinson
Not really. There must be devices out there for that – but I never really looked into it.