How to choose a fitness bracelet

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• The best manufacturers of fitness bracelets
• The best inexpensive fitness bracelets with a screen
• The best fitness bracelets with a mid-range screen
• The best multifunctional fitness bracelets with a screen
• The best fitness bracelets without a screen
• Let's compare the models
• Main functions of fitness bracelets
• What to look for when choosing a fitness bracelet
• Which fitness bracelet is better to choose?

Back in the 50s, with the development of big-time sports, people began to think about how to track the condition and achievements of athletes, but at that time such sensors were bulky, inconvenient and stationary. After 20-30 years, a separate cycling computer was created that could measure speed and distance, and something vaguely similar to a heart rate monitor.

The fitness bracelet in the modern sense was introduced to the world by Jawbone in 2011. It had extensive functionality, but the battery drained quickly, and the claimed water resistance did not work, so users did not appreciate the device. Other manufacturers took into account the unsuccessful experience and improved the new product by adding a Bluetooth module, thanks to which the devices could be paired with a phone.

Now a fitness tracker is a necessary accessory for people who monitor their health and figure, lead or plan to start leading a healthy lifestyle. Smart bracelets can track steps, heart rate, distance traveled, calories burned, sleep stages and other parameters. The purpose of all devices is approximately the same, but the functions, design and prices differ. How to choose what is best for you? We have compiled a ranking of the 14 best fitness bracelets of 2020 to make it easier for you to decide.

How to choose a fitness bracelet? Basic principles

Today the market offers a huge number of different models of this device. They all differ not only in price and manufacturer, but also in the range of functions. Some are suitable for beginners and can help them start leading a healthy lifestyle, while others will be an excellent companion for those who have long been familiar with sports at a professional level. One way or another, choosing the right fitness bracelet is not always easy.

Here is a list of things to look for when purchasing fitness trackers:

• Device functions. For beginners, a bracelet that counts steps, calories burned, can measure pulse and wake you up in the fast phase will be enough. For professionals, devices that can determine the type of sport and monitor all body indicators are more suitable.
• Operating time without recharging.
• Waterproof.

Note! To fully swim with a bracelet, you need to choose a protection level of 20 ATM, and for regular running in the rain, a gadget with a moisture protection of 3 ATM is suitable.

• Mobile device compatible. Some bracelets can only sync with Android or iPhone, while others are suitable for all phone models.
• Manufacturer and price.

Now that you know what parameters should be taken into account when choosing a fitness bracelet, you can move on to a more detailed analysis and specific advice.

Garmin Vivosmart 4

The best fitness bracelet for the gym

Vivosmart 4 is a fitness bracelet aimed mostly at women. The elegant appearance will organically suit any style of clothing, from an evening dress to a tracksuit. But the value of the device is not in its appearance, but in the array of functions, many of which other bracelets do not have.

In addition to standard features such as step, calorie and distance counting, sleep monitoring and 24-hour heart rate measurement, there is also VO2 Max monitoring, Body Battery assessment, and a heart rate variability (HRV) assessment tool. The tracker can automatically recognize exercises and even count repetitions during workouts in the gym.

There is no built-in GPS here, but paired with Garmin Move IQ software, the bracelet's accelerometer provides fairly accurate data.

The Garmin Vivosmart 4 also has a number of disadvantages. First, it doesn't have the best battery life. On average it is approximately 5-7 days. Secondly, the bracelet has a small monochrome OLED screen that looks outdated. And the most significant disadvantage of this device is the unreasonably high price. On the manufacturer's official website it costs $130.

You can read more about this fitness tracker in this article.

Key features of Garmin Vivosmart 4

• Compatibility: Android, iOS
• Screen: color OLED.
• Screen size: 6.6mm x 17.7mm.
• Resolution: 128*48 pixels.
• Sensors: accelerometer, optical heart rate sensor, Pulse Ox2
• Waterproof: Suitable for swimming.
• Autonomy: up to 7 days of normal use.
• Price: From 130 dollars.

Pros:

• Clear and convenient application
• Many functions for monitoring the body's condition
• Great design

Minuses:

• No GPS
• It's unreasonably expensive
• Outdated monochrome screen
• Short battery life

How to choose a fitness bracelet for Android?

When choosing a fitness bracelet, it is worth remembering that all fitness trackers are companion devices, that is, they only work together with mobile devices. Owners of regular smartphones are luckier than others, because most models support Android and iOS platforms. The only question is which of them will be the best choice for you.

So, here is a list of fitness trackers that synchronize with Android and at the same time have a set of decent characteristics at a relatively low price:

xiaomi mi band 2

This model is perfect for those who are just starting to explore the world of sports.

Here are its main characteristics:

• Waterproof housing;
• Work without recharging for 20 days of continuous wear;
• Touch screen and compatible with Android and iOS.

Features available in this model:

• Notification of new messages and incoming calls;
• Pedometer;
• Sleep monitoring;
• A smart alarm clock that will start working exactly at the moment when your body is completely ready to wake up.

The price of Xiaomi mi band 2 varies mainly from 999 rubles to 2000 rubles.

Lenovo HW01

This fitness bracelet is no worse than the one described above. However, its capabilities are slightly different, but in which direction it’s up to you to decide.

Technical specifications:

• Waterproof (at a household level);
• Touch screen and Android compatible;
• An 85 mAh battery lasts about 7 days without recharging;

Functions:

• Heart rate control;
• Pedometer;
• Measuring the distance traveled per day;
• Monitoring sleep time and quality;
• Call and message reminder;
• Calendar.

The average price of Lenovo HW01 is 1,500 rubles.

Huawei honor band 3

This model is suitable for people who have long been familiar with sports and consider it an integral part of their life.

Basic characteristics:

• Waterproof housing (can be submerged up to 50 meters deep).
• Touch screen and compatible with Android and iOS.
• The battery capacity is 100 mAh - this is about 30-40 days without recharging.

Functional:

• Pedometer;
• Heart rate monitor;
• Sleep monitoring;
• Notifications about incoming calls and SMS.

The price of this gadget is about 2000-2500 rubles. It is not very expensive, especially if you are a swimmer and need a budget fitness bracelet model that can withstand the pressure of water.

In addition to the fitness bracelet itself, you will need an application to synchronize the device with your smartphone. To choose the right program, you need to consider the purpose for which you purchased your fitness tracker. Some of the apps are only suitable for running or swimming. And some are a whole complex for tracking all parameters and playing all types of sports.

If you want to train in combination with proper nutrition and quality sleep, then universal applications will suit you, such as:

• Jefit;
• Nice Run Club;
• Microsoft Health.

Knowing all these nuances, you can easily select a high-quality and inexpensive bracelet according to your goals.

Important points when choosing

In order to choose a fitness bracelet, it is worth studying the characteristics of such devices.

• First of all, buyers pay attention to the design and body of the bracelet - women often choose models based on this criterion. But, if you are going to use the device during training, then it is advisable that it is moisture resistant (physical activity is accompanied by sweat), does not collect dust, and can withstand shocks/falls.
• There are fitness bracelets in different sizes and colors. For men, simple but impact-resistant models are more suitable, and the fair sex often choose devices with bright colors.
• Evaluate the quality and material from which the strap is made, because... you will wear the fitness bracelet all the time. Most often it is made of hypoallergenic rubber or silicone.
• It is worth studying the features of the software, because... You can use the full functionality of such devices only after synchronizing them with your smartphone. Popular fitness bracelets work in conjunction with Android.

• Pay attention to whether the manufacturer provides a special application for the phone. Since smart watches synchronize with other gadgets via Bluetooth, it is important that the watch supports the same version of the program as the smartphone.
• Another important criterion is the screen. Not all bracelets are equipped with displays - some only have sensors that transmit data to the phone. Reviews indicate that smartwatches with a display are more convenient - you can immediately see the distance traveled, check your heart rate, and see how many steps have been taken.
• The most important factor is the functionality of the device. Simple, budget models are equipped with a pedometer. A person can control the duration of the distance, and the program will calculate the approximate number of kcal burned.
• If you're looking for a workout monitoring device, you'll need a more capable model. Many fitness bracelets are equipped with a heart rate monitor - there is a special sensor on the back of the device that records your heart rate. Such a device more accurately calculates the number of calories burned and beeps if your heart rate increases. Fitness bands with heart rate monitoring are useful for older people suffering from blood pressure problems and heart disease.
• Some fitness trackers, thanks to the presence of a navigation system, can be used during hikes or long runs. Such a device will show your location, record the route you have taken, and help you create a new track for training.

• Some devices are equipped with special NFC chips that provide contactless payments (there is no need to carry cash or a bank card with you - you just need to initially connect the payment function to the watch and bring the chip to the bank terminal). NFC bracelets are often bought for children - this way, parents don’t have to worry about what and when their child spends money.
• Smart alarm bracelets are popular. The principle of their operation is as follows: a special program collects information from the bracelet’s sensors and analyzes them, determining in which phase of sleep their owner is. It has been proven that if a person wakes up after completing a full sleep cycle, he will feel more rested and alert. Fitness watches trigger an alarm at the right time, interrupting a person's rest at the optimal moment.
• The bracelets have their own battery, so they can work autonomously for 7 – 14 days (without recharging). If we are talking about a fitness tracker with GPS and a number of additional functions, then it is possible that the device will have to be charged every 2 to 4 days.
• Cost is another important factor. Prices for such devices range from 2 to 20 thousand rubles, depending on the functionality, model and manufacturer. The more functions a smartwatch has, the higher its cost.

Fitness bracelets for women: How to choose?

As practice shows, for women the appearance of the purchased device is very important. It should not only be comfortable and of high quality, but also fashionable.

If you are a representative of the fairer sex and still don’t know which bracelet to choose, this list is definitely for you. Here are the most stylish models that will suit absolutely all girls:

1. Xiaomi Mi Band 3 has a great style and compact size. The set includes interchangeable straps, which means you can choose the one that fully suits your taste.
2. Moov Now is perfect for those who run or swim. Not only does it have a minimalist style that will go with absolutely any outfit, but it can also be attached to the ankle if the occasion calls for it.
3. FitBit Alta's functionality is suitable for those who are just starting to explore the world of physical activity. This is not only a stylish tracker, but also a device that can work for a long time.
4. Bellabeat Leaf is an incredibly minimalistic and stylish tracker made in the shape of a leaf. It looks like a regular accessory, so no one will understand that it is a fitness bracelet until you tell it yourself.
5. Scialite is an excellent model, stylized as jewelry. This bracelet has a standard set of functions - pedometer, calorie counter, sleep monitoring, etc.

Now, after looking at this list, you can easily decide for yourself what is more important in your case: stylish models that will attract attention or inconspicuous minimalist trackers that match any outfit.

GEOZON Hybrid watch

• Screen: 1.3” 128×128 LCD
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.0 LE
• Sensors: pedometer, heart rate monitor
• Working time: about 2 weeks
• Protection: IP68, WR50

Among the Chinese samples, watches codenamed M5 and M6 stand out. They came to Russia under the name GEOZON Hybrid. Unlike other manufacturers who offer their watches and bracelets for $4-6, these watches are of a higher level. The application works stably, the battery lasts about 2 weeks, not days, as is the case with cheap watches and bracelets.

This watch is interesting because it uses an energy-efficient display, similar to what is used in conventional electronic watches. But that's not all, mechanical arrows are located on top of the display. Therefore, everything is in order with their appearance.

The display is quite informative; it allows you to see the number of steps taken, heart rate, and notifications. Some may not like the fact that the screen needs to be turned on; it turns off when idle, but in this form the watch looks even better. It is also worth keeping in mind that the screen is without a sensor, all control is carried out by mechanical buttons.

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Trackers for men: what should the stronger sex choose?

While appearance is very important for women, men primarily look at the capabilities of a newly purchased device, so when choosing, it is important for young people to consider the purpose for which the purchase is being made.

Fitbit Charge 2

This is a godsend for those who prefer active recreation or love to travel. This fitness bracelet has everything tourists need, namely:

• Pedometer;
• Height and distance measurement;
• Choice of different running modes;
• Calorie counter;
• Sleep monitoring;
• Heart rate monitor;
• Alarm.

The battery lasts up to 5 days without recharging. However, the price for some may seem quite high - on average 7,000-8,000 rubles. As for the design, we can say without a doubt that this model will suit absolutely any man. Fitbit Charge 2 will look good with both business clothes and a sports suit.

Garmin Vivosport

Suitable for both those who are just starting to run and those who have already achieved certain results in this sport. In addition to basic functions, this device can also assess stress levels and measure oxygen consumption. The battery can operate autonomously for up to 7 days. However, the price is quite high - from 14,000 rubles. In addition, the design will not suit everyone - if in the previous case it was classic and monochrome, then here different colors are added to the display, which not everyone will like.

Wearfit F1

Best suited for those who love to swim. Its functionality includes a parameter necessary for swimmers – blood pressure measurement. The design is universal for any type of clothing. However, there is also a small drawback - the battery life of the Wearfit F1 is only 3 days. The price is very reasonable - from 1000 to 2000 rubles on average.

Xiaomi Amazfit Bip Watch

• Screen: 1.28” 176×176 transflective screen
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.0 LE, GPS
• Sensors: pedometer, heart rate monitor, compass
• Working time: about 6 weeks
• Protection: IP68

If you're looking for a tracker watch, Xiaomi's Amazfit division has something to surprise you with. Amazfit Bip stands out primarily for its screen. It is made using transflective technology, essentially it is a regular TFT display, but the matrix has a mirror substrate, so it can be illuminated by an external light source, for example, the sun. This allows you to display images 24/7. You can find something similar in regular electronic watches and in some older Nokia phones. In the dark, you can use the built-in backlight.

This display consumes virtually no energy. With moderate use of the watch, it will last up to two months. A transflective screen also allows you to maintain your individuality; a blank black screen doesn't look as good.

But the benefits don't end there. In addition to standard functions, the watch has a compass and GPS. Thanks to the latter, you can get an accurate running route. When you turn it on, about 5% of the charge is consumed per hour.

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How to choose a fitness bracelet with blood pressure measurement?

A fitness tracker with a pressure measurement function is not just a sports accessory, it is also a medical device that allows you to monitor the condition of your body during physical activity. This is especially true for those who are just starting to play sports and are not confident in the strength of their body, and for those who have any problems with the heart or blood pressure.

When choosing a fitness bracelet with blood pressure measurement, a very reasonable question arises: how accurate are the measurements of the built-in tonometer?

Typically, the readings of a fitness device and a medical device coincide only by 60-80%, but it is possible to increase this percentage if you wear the newly purchased accessory correctly.

Here are a few rules to follow:

1. The fitness tracker should be worn on the arm that moves less.
2. The bracelet sensors should fit snugly against the skin.
3. The accuracy of readings may be affected by weather. Be sure to take this factor into account.
4. The device should be positioned two fingers above the wrist knuckle.

By following these simple rules, you will increase the chances of getting accurate readings of your blood pressure during exercise.

Now you need to figure out which fitness bracelets with pressure measurement function have proven themselves better than others.

Here is a short list of quality models that will definitely not let you down:

• Smart Band M3;
• Jet Sport FT-7;
• QS 100;
• GSMIN WR32s;
• ZDK i8;
• Smart Bracelet M2;
• GSMIN C1 Plus;
• G20 ECG;
• Corband Fit Pro;
• WearFit R11;
• CD01;
• Bizzaro F550.

In any case, before buying a fitness bracelet with blood pressure measurement, you need to study the manufacturer's reviews.

Important! It is better to make a choice in favor of trusted companies that are well known and have many clients who leave honest reviews on official websites.

Samsung Galaxy Fit

The best fitness band for Samsung fans

The Samsung Galaxy Fit fitness bracelet is not a successor to the popular Gear Fit2 Pro activity tracker and does not stand out with any outstanding features, but for non-professional sports and activity tracking it has all the necessary characteristics and sensors.

The bracelet is equipped with a 0.95-inch diagonal AMOLED color touch screen. For convenience, there is a hardware button on the left side of the case. The display is covered with slightly convex tempered glass.

The functionality of the bracelet is standard: counting steps, calories and distance, monitoring sleep and heart rate, tracking more than 90 sports modes, notifications of calls and messages, and much more. Unfortunately, there is no built-in GPS module, so to correctly calculate distance, pace and get a track, you will need to connect to a smartphone and the Samsung Health application.

The Samsung Galaxy Fit doesn't shine in terms of battery life either. With normal use, one battery charge will provide approximately 7 days of battery life. The big advantage of this device is its accurate swimming monitoring (waterproof up to 50 meters). In addition, the tracker's protection meets the US military standard MIL-STD 810G, meaning it will withstand use in even the harshest conditions.

The price is the weak point of this tracker. It was valued at approximately $100. Overall, considering all the functions and features, this fitness bracelet can be called Mi Band 4 from Samsung. There is also a cheaper version of this bracelet called Galaxy Fit E with a smaller monochrome screen (pictured on the right). Read more about it in this article.

Key features of Samsung Galaxy Fit

• Compatibility: Android, iOS
• Screen: color AMOLED.
• Diagonal: 0.95 inches.
• Resolution: 128*64 pixels.
• Sensors: accelerometer, optical heart rate sensor.
• Water protection: 5ATM.
• Battery: 120 mAh.
• Autonomy: up to 7 days of normal use.
• Price: From $99.

Pros:

• Vibrant color screen
• Lots of features
• Accurate heart rate measurement
• 5 ATM water protection and MIL-STD 810G compliant
• Great design

Minuses:

• No GPS
• It costs expensive
• Short battery life

How to choose a fitness bracelet with a heart rate monitor?

A heart rate monitor is an integral part of a fitness tracker, with which you can monitor the functioning of your cardiovascular system. It is especially necessary for athletes, as it helps them control the number of heartbeats and, based on the data obtained, regulate the load. Thanks to the heart rate monitor, the athlete is protected from heart overload, which every year, according to official data from the National Registry in the USA, claims the lives of approximately 100-120 athletes.

When choosing a fitness bracelet with a heart rate monitor, you should pay attention to its operating time, as well as the accuracy of the measurements. You can do this by reading customer reviews.

Reference! The bracelet must be certified to high standards for the level of influence of moisture, dust, and mechanical influences. These are IP68 and IP4x.

Here is a list of the best models with a heart rate monitor in 2020, appreciated by their owners:

• Honor Band 4;
• Xiaomi Mi Smart Band 4;
• Xiaomi Mi Band 3 (the most budget option with a heart rate monitor);
• Huawei Band 2 Pro (inexpensive tracker with high autonomy);
• Fitbit Charge 2 (with multifunctional heart rate monitor and altimeter);
• Yamaguchi Pulse PRO;
• ONETRAK C317 Pulse (from a domestic manufacturer);
• Sony SmartBand 2 SWR12 (tracker for daily heart rate monitoring).

To decide on a fitness bracelet model that accurately measures your heart rate, you need to decide what you need it for.

1. If you are an athlete and want to control the degree of exercise, choose Honor Band 4.
2. If you need a bracelet for constant monitoring of your heart rate throughout the day, then opt for the Sony Smart Band 2
3. If you need to check your heart rate occasionally, look for inexpensive devices that accurately measure your resting heart rate. These include: Huawei Band 2 Pro and Xiaomi Mi Band 3.
4. Fitbit Charge 2 is suitable for those who need heart rate analytics after a workout. The Fitbit app will calculate your heart rate throughout the duration of physical activity with an error of up to 3 beats/minute.

How it works and how it can be used

To understand how the accelerometer in a fitness bracelet works and what it is, you need to study the mechanism of action of the classic device. Few people know that it consists of a spring, a moving mass and a damper.

The main part of the structure is a movable mass, which is attached to an elastic element. The spring is attached to a stationary surface. On the opposite side there is a damper that suppresses load vibrations.

Important! Any movements of the gadget lead to the fact that the moving mass accelerates, then the spring is deformed. When the load returns to its place under the influence of the elastic element, the level of displacement relative to the normal position is recorded by a special sensor.

There are different accelerometers in fitness bracelets, but capacitive and piezoelectric ones are most often used.

Few people know how a capacitive sensor works and what it is. When the device moves, the load presses on the plate located closer. As the sensitive elements come closer together, the capacitance of the capacitor increases. The microprocessor processes the received information and signals movement.

Piezoelectric devices use a crystal instead of plates. While the gadget is moving, the load compresses the sensitive element, and it creates a potential difference. The microcontroller registers the changes.

The accelerometer in a fitness bracelet looks like a miniature chip that is located on the device’s circuit board. There is a moving mass inside it, and it looks like a small black square.

The principle of its operation does not differ from the standard one: when the position of the moving mass changes, the displacement level is measured. Then the received information is converted into an electrical signal. This is the simplest example of how the G-sensor works.

The accelerometer in the fitness bracelet is used while walking or running to monitor the distance traveled. A smart device helps calculate the approximate number of steps and steps. Although the results are not always accurate, the information obtained will help you adjust your activity level and improve your training results.

There are no fitness bracelets that will determine the number of steps without error. Throughout the day, the user makes movements that are unpredictable for the gadget (for example, driving a car, eating food), which he mistakenly perceives as steps. In addition, all people have their own walking style, so there is no single algorithm that takes into account the characteristics of gait and accurately distinguishes steps from other movements. Typically the error ranges from -30 to +10%.

In smartphones, accelerometers allow you to control video game characters or their vehicles. The sensor also helps change the orientation of a picture or text. In aviation, the G-sensor powers the navigation system, and in industry it is used as a device that converts low-voltage direct voltage into alternating voltage.

How to choose a fitness device with NFC?

NFC technology allows you to use the fitness bracelet as a credit card and use it to pay for various purchases contactlessly.

Attention! The most important problem is to choose the right fitness bracelet with NFC that will work in Russia.

For this reason, you should not choose the first gadget you come across whose characteristics indicate the presence of an NFC module, because it may not work within our country. An example of such a failure is the Mi Band 3, with which you can only pay for purchases in China.

Important! For a tracker with an NFC module to work correctly, you need to pair it with your phone through a special program.

Here is a short list of models supporting contactless payment that definitely work in Russia:

• LG Watch Sport;
• Huawei Watch 2;
• Samsung Gear S3;
• Sony SmartWatch 3;
• Misfit Vapor 2.

Now you know that when buying a fitness bracelet, you should definitely check whether the NFC module works in Russia or not.

Fitbit Charge 3

Best Fitness Band for Sleep Tracking

Today, Fitbit Charge 3 is the flagship fitness bracelet of this famous American manufacturer. In 2018, it won the Fitness Tracker of the Year category at the Wareable Tech Awards, which already says a lot.

The body is made of anodized aluminum, and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 is used to protect the screen. There are no physical buttons; an inductive button is used to navigate the interface. That is, to control you need to lightly press the left and right sides of the case. Unfortunately, the Charge 3's screen is not color, but it is quite bright and informative.

As for functionality, the bracelet is fully packed. This includes monitoring of 15 sports modes, in-depth monitoring of sleep quality, round-the-clock heart rate monitoring, counting steps, calories and distance, measuring blood oxygen levels, women's calendar, call and message notifications, quick replies to messages, etc.

Battery life is short. Depending on the intensity of use, it ranges from 3 to 7 days. Charge 3 is not a cheap pleasure. You will have to pay almost 150 US dollars for it.

Key features of Fitbit Charge 3

• Compatibility: Android, iOS
• Screen: color OLED.
• Screen size: 11.8mm x 22.7mm
• Sensors: accelerometer, optical heart rate sensor, SpO2 sensor
• Waterproof: Suitable for swimming.
• Autonomy: up to 7 days of normal use.
• Price: From 150 dollars.

Pros:

• Advanced Sleep Monitoring
• Many functions for monitoring the body's condition
• Cool design

Minuses:

• No GPS
• Expensive
• Monochrome screen
• Short battery life

Smart watch or fitness bracelet: what to choose?

It’s impossible to say for sure which is better: a fitness bracelet or a smart watch. For some, the first gadget will be the ideal option, for others, the second. It all depends on what goal the buyer is pursuing. In order to make the right choice and not regret your decision later, you need to familiarize yourself with the main differences between these devices, as well as their pros and cons.

Smart watches have a separate operating system, which expands their functionality and allows you to practically replace a smartphone.

The advantages of this device include:

• Large color display with touch control;
• Stylish design;
• Availability of a widget system for quick access to any information;
• Voice control function;
• Independence from a smartphone, as well as the ability to carry out analysis thanks to the built-in OS.

Please note! Among the most popular operating systems for smart watches are Android, Android Wear, iOS and Tizen.

The disadvantages of smart watches include:

• High price;
• Short battery life (1-2 days without recharging);
• Bulky design.

Fitness bracelets are completely dependent on the smartphone and have basic functionality that can be slightly expanded using applications for mobile devices. The advantages of this device are:

• Lightweight and compact. Such bracelets are practically not felt on your hand, you can even sleep with them;
• Accurate activity statistics;
• Water resistance (both at household and professional levels);
• Long period of battery life (from several days to six months);
• Low cost.

The disadvantages of this device include:

• Dependence on a smartphone, inability to perform a complete data analysis without it;
• Limited functionality;
• Small, monochrome display or no display.

The main differences between these two devices are not only in the set of functions, but also in appearance.

Differences between fitness trackers and smartwatches in terms of external characteristics:

1. Display. In the first case, it is small in size and made in black and white colors. Some models do not have touch controls. In the second case, the display is many times larger, the screen is fully color, and the picture quality is very high.
2. Strap. For trackers it is either silicone or rubber. Watch manufacturers choose special metal alloys or leather for straps.
3. Size. Fitness bracelets are almost not felt on your hand; they are light and compact. Smart watches, on the contrary, have quite an impressive weight, which makes them not entirely comfortable.

Comparison of functions of smart watches and fitness trackers:

1. Notifications. If in trackers you can only receive notifications about calls or SMS, then in watches you will have the opportunity to answer them.
2. Heart rate measurement in bracelets occurs at precisely specified intervals and is sent to a smartphone, while in watches, heart rate data is measured at any time and immediately displayed on the screen.
3. Smart alarm clock. This function is available by default only in early versions of trackers, while in watches it is always available.
4. Time, weather and other data are displayed on the bracelet if it has a display. In addition, the data appears on different desktops, which is not very convenient. Smart watches have a large screen on which all the requested information is displayed.

Now, knowing all the differences between these two devices, you can easily make your choice. The main thing to remember is that if you are just going to track your activity, and at the same time a smartphone is an indispensable thing for you, a fitness tracker is what you need. But if you are into tourism or you need an alternative replacement for a smartphone that can free your hands, a smartwatch is ideal for you.

Devices from 20,000 rubles

Apple Watch Series 2 38mm Sport Band

• Price: 22,700 rubles.
• Compatibility: iOS 8.0.
• Operating system: watchOS 3.
• Display: OLED, 1.33″, 272 × 340.
• Moisture protection: WR50.
• Heart rate monitor: yes.
• GPS: yes.
• Sensors: accelerometer, gyroscope, light sensor.
• Smart alarm: no.
• Notifications: calls, SMS, third-party applications.
• Functions: steps, distance, floors, sleep, music playback, camera control, Siri, Apple Pay.
• Weight: 28 g.
• Straps: silicone, leather, metal.
• Autonomy: up to 3 days.

An updated version of Apple smartwatches, significantly superior in capabilities to the first generation. Apple Watch Series 2 is not afraid of water; you can wash your hands, shower, and even swim in it. The watch received a GPS module, which is essential for serious training, as well as a brighter screen that is perfectly readable even in the sun.

They also differ from Series 1 in speed. Widgets and applications open almost instantly. In addition to tracking all your activities and motivating you to new fitness achievements, Apple Watch 2 is also a stylish accessory. Even the sports version looks cool, not to mention the steel versions with leather straps.

Buy Apple Watch Series 2 38mm Sport Band →

Garmin Fenix ​​3 Sapphire HR

• Price: 31,490 rubles.
• Compatibility: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS.
• Operating system: no.
• Display: hybrid, 1.2″, 218 × 218.
• Moisture protection: WR100.
• Heart rate monitor: yes.
• GPS: yes.
• Sensors: accelerometer, altimeter, compass.
• Smart alarm: no.
• Notifications: calls, SMS, social networks, weather.
• Functions: steps, distance, bike, golf, calories, oxygen consumption, sleep, player control.
• Weight: 86 g.
• Straps: silicone, one color.
• Autonomy: up to 6 weeks, up to 20 hours in GPS mode.

Huge and brutal, this watch is for those who prioritize functionality. Fenix ​​3 Sapphire HR can do everything that its competitors can (and even more), but at the same time leaves them far behind in terms of autonomy. In normal mode, the watch lasts for a month and a half, but in training mode with GPS turned on, it lasts for almost a day. But this is not just a fitness bracelet with LEDs, but a full-fledged display, notifications from a smartphone and a lot of sensors that can automatically detect and track various workouts, including swimming, cycling and golf.

The watch can also calculate step length and show the amount of oxygen consumed. To the advantages of the Fenix ​​3 Sapphire HR, you can add a sapphire protective glass, which is impossible to scratch, and a solid design in general. Despite the high price, the watch is completely worth it.

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Huawei Band 4e Basketball Wizard Edition

The best fitness band for running

The Huawei Band 4e fitness bracelet is largely inferior in characteristics to other devices in this rating. It is equipped with a tiny 0.5-inch monochrome screen and cannot measure heart rate due to the lack of an optical sensor.

This gadget is focused on monitoring various sports modes and primarily on running. In “Running” mode, when the tracker is attached to sneakers (a special shoe mount is included), it records 7 different parameters, including the angle of rotation of the legs, time of contact with the ground, length and frequency of steps, etc.

The “Basketball” mode allows you to track your maximum sprint speed, record your vertical jump and flight time. According to the manufacturer, the accuracy of the data obtained is 97%. Huawei Band 4e can also evaluate sleep quality, notify about calls and messages, remind about long periods of inactivity, count steps, calories and distance.

The official price of the fitness bracelet is $18. This seller on Aliexpress sells it at the same price. Read more about Huawei Band 4e in this article.

Key features of Huawei Band 4e

• Compatibility: Android, iOS
• Screen: PMOLED.
• Diagonal: 0.5 inches.
• Resolution: 88*48 pixels.
• Sensors: 6-axis accelerometer.
• Water protection: 5ATM.
• Battery: 77 mAh.
• Autonomy: up to 14 days of normal use, up to 40 hours of running.
• Price: From 18 dollars.

Pros:

• Basketball mode
• Accurate running tracking
• Water protection 5 ATM
• Attachment to shoes
• Very light (6 grams without strap)

Minuses:

• No heart rate sensor
• Small screen