The best fitness trackers and watches we’ve tested

Source: The Verge

Fitness trackers have come a long way from the simple bands that tracked steps and little else. Modern trackers can monitor everything from your heart health to how well you’ve recovered from a hard bout of training. Even flagship smartwatches, which used to be lackluster trackers, have become prettier, more functional, and more accurate than ever before.

Below is a roundup of the best fitness trackers currently on the market, covering a range of budgets, features, and form factors. Whether you’re a casual walker, a serious athlete, or somewhere in between, there’s a device here that can help you stay on top of your health goals.

Best Overall: Apple Watch Series 9

• Key features: ECG, blood‑oxygen monitoring, temperature sensing, advanced workout detection, and a bright, always‑on Retina display.
• Why it stands out: Seamless integration with iOS, a robust app ecosystem, and regular software updates keep it at the forefront of health tracking.

Best for Android Users: Samsung Galaxy Watch 6

• Key features: BioActive Sensor (ECG, SpO₂, body composition), automatic workout tracking, and a sleek rotating bezel.
• Why it stands out: Deep integration with Android, strong third‑party app support, and a premium design.

Best Budget Pick: Fitbit Inspire 3

• Key features: 24/7 heart‑rate monitoring, sleep stages, stress management, and up to 10 days of battery life.
• Why it stands out: Affordable price point, easy‑to‑use Fitbit app, and reliable basic tracking.

Best for Runners: Garmin Forerunner 165

• Key features: Advanced running dynamics, VO₂ max estimation, built‑in GPS, and music storage.
• Why it stands out: Precise GPS accuracy, extensive training metrics, and long battery life (up to 24 hours in GPS mode).

Best for Outdoor Adventures: Polar Grit X Pro

• Key features: Military‑grade durability, turn‑by‑turn navigation, hill‑splitter training, and a robust heart‑rate sensor.
• Why it stands out: Rugged build, excellent battery life (up to 40 hours GPS), and comprehensive outdoor sport modes.

Best for Sleep Tracking: Oura Ring Generation 3

• Key features: 24/7 heart‑rate, temperature, and respiratory rate monitoring, plus detailed sleep stage analysis.
• Why it stands out: Minimalist design, accurate sleep insights, and a comfortable ring form factor.

Best for Women’s Health: Whoop 4.0

• Key features: Continuous heart‑rate variability (HRV) monitoring, menstrual cycle tracking, and recovery scores.
• Why it stands out: Focus on recovery and strain, personalized coaching, and a subscription‑based analytics platform.

How to Choose the Right Tracker

1. Identify your primary goals – steps, workouts, sleep, or overall health.
2. Consider ecosystem compatibility – iOS vs. Android, existing apps, and device integration.
3. Evaluate battery life – some devices last a week, while GPS‑heavy models may need daily charging.
4. Check comfort and style – a device you’ll actually wear consistently.

Final Thoughts

Fitness trackers have evolved into comprehensive health hubs. By matching a device’s strengths to your personal needs, you can gain actionable insights that help you stay motivated, recover smarter, and ultimately lead a healthier life.