Is it worth buying a bracelet for measuring blood pressure and pulse? Fitness tracker with heart rate monitor - making the right choice

It would be nice to always know how many kilometers you walked today, how well you slept last night, and whether your heart rate exceeds the required values. All these functions can be performed by a compact modern gadget, whose name is a fitness bracelet. It may be needed not only by professional athletes, but also by those who run in the morning, lead an active lifestyle and always want to know detailed indicators of their activity. Fitness trackers today are not produced except by the lazy, so understanding the existing assortment is not easy. Let's try to dot all the i's and understand how to choose the right fitness bracelet so as not to overpay for unnecessary features and brand. We have also selected the best fitness bracelets of 2018 for you. The list includes new and well-known models, cheap and quite expensive gadgets.

To answer the question of which fitness bracelet is better to choose, you need to understand for yourself what do you want from this wonderful gadget?. Some people only need to count steps, while others will want to have almost a smart watch on their wrist with a wide range of capabilities. Suitable option there is something for everyone.

The heart of any fitness bracelet is accelerometer. This is a special sensor that reacts to movement. Its readings can be processed by the bracelet's built-in processor and immediately interpreted into steps and kilometers, which are displayed on the screen. In some models, all the information collected by the sensor is transferred to a special application on the smartphone, which correctly processes the received data and builds beautiful graphs of your activity.

Also, the fitness bracelet can receive heart rate sensor, and sometimes GPS module. The battery is hidden in the tiny sensor housing. There may also be a screen where basic information is displayed. The bracelet strap is made of elastic and pleasant-to-touch materials, so wearing the gadget every day will not cause any problems - soon you will no longer feel the device on you at all.

• functionality. Any fitness bracelet can count number of steps taken and convert them into kilometers, most measure heart rate. Many models can cope with the definition sleep phases and will be able to wake you up at the most appropriate moment - this is the “smart alarm clock” function. The most advanced models have a built-in sensor GPS, which allows you to build routes and expands the functionality of the bracelet;
• screen. If previously almost all fitness bracelets were produced without a display, and only the most expensive models had a screen, today everything has changed dramatically. Even budget trackers get a screen that displays information about time, date, number of steps, calories burned and heart rate. When synchronizing the tracker with a smartphone, notifications about incoming calls and notifications can also be displayed on the screen. In more advanced gadgets, you can configure the parameters for displaying information on the screen, set screensavers, select watch faces;
  
• autonomy. There are bracelets that will have to be charged every 4-5 days, and there are long-livers that need recharging once a month. Naturally, there will be fewer problems with the latter;
• moisture protection is present in the vast majority of bracelets, but may vary in degree. For example, a tracker with a protection level of IP 65 perfectly resists dust and can withstand jets of water from all sides, a bracelet with a protection level of IP 67 will withstand temporary immersion under water of 1 m, and with IP 68 it can be left in place even during deep immersion. The choice depends on what type of activity you have;

  Moisture protection classes IP

  Waterproof classes WR

• additional features at different manufacturers may vary significantly. For example, some trackers can vibrate to remind you that you have been sitting for too long and it’s time to move, others allow you to create training schedules, etc.;
• design. As a rule, fitness bracelets are quite light, and their appearance differs only slightly. Every major manufacturer offers straps for their devices different colors and materials, so that a useful thing can be turned into stylish accessory;
• price. There are bracelets for $20, and there are also for $200. Often it’s a matter of the name and the number of additional unnecessary functions, so do not rush to discard inexpensive models - among them there are also very high-quality and reliable devices;
• As for manufacturers, from the whole mass we can note fitness bracelets from Xiaomi, Garmin, Samsung and FitBit.
  

Now that the variables are declared, we can begin to solve the selection problem best fitness bracelets among those that are presented on store shelves today.

Before moving on to considering specific models, it is worth deciding on the selection criteria by which you can compare devices with each other and weed out unsuitable options.

Price

There are many devices on the market with the most at different prices, and there are excellent options in price category up to 5 thousand rubles. It is important to decide necessary functions, which you will actually use and not overpay for unnecessary functionality.

Platform

A full-fledged OS is only available in smart watches. Trackers are often synchronized with smartphones and display all information in a mobile application. Therefore, compatibility is important point, which is worth paying attention to before purchasing.

Functionality

The basic functionality is almost identical in all devices: number of steps, distance traveled, calories burned. For many this is more than enough. IN expensive models There are additional indicators: heart rate, diet and weight tracking, GPS support and the ability to answer calls.

Autonomy

Battery life is very important for mobile devices. Smart watches, due to their more powerful hardware and display, have much less time than regular fitness bracelets. The latter work on one charge for about a month, while with the clock everything is not so optimistic. A smart gadget will have to be charged, if not every day, then at least once every 2-3 days.

Devices up to 7,000 rubles

• Price: 1,274 rubles.
• Compatibility: Android 4.4, iOS 7.0.
• Operating system: No.
• Display: monochrome OLED, diagonal 0.42″.
• Moisture protection: IP67.
• Heart rate monitor: There is.
• GPS: No.
• Sensors: accelerometer
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications: calls, SMS, mail, calendar, other applications, smartphone unlocking.
• Functions: sleep monitoring, calories, steps, smartphone unlocking.
• Weight: 7 years
• Straps: silicone in several colors.
• Autonomy: about 20 days.

The second generation of the popular tracker from Xiaomi, which has a small screen that eliminates the need to wear a regular watch on your second hand. When you press the touch button, all information and time collected by the tracker are displayed on the display.

• Price: 1,623 rubles.
• Compatibility: Android 4.4.
• Operating system: No.
• Display: three-color LED.
• Moisture protection: No.
• Heart rate monitor: No.
• GPS: No.
• Sensors: accelerometer
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications: calls, SMS, social networks.
• Functions: pedometer, distance traveled, calories.
• Weight: 3 years
• Straps: silicone, 3 colors.
• Autonomy: about 2 weeks.

A tracker with nominal capabilities, in which Samsung focused on design rather than functionality. Charm was created for a female audience, so it has compact dimensions and record-breaking light weight. The bracelet looks very stylish and is almost not felt on your hand, but you shouldn’t count on great capabilities: the built-in accelerometer only counts steps, distance traveled and calories.

• Price: 3,892 rubles.
• Compatibility: Android 4.3, iOS 7.0.
• Operating system: No.
• Display: E-Ink, 1.1″.
• Moisture protection: WR50.
• Heart rate monitor: No.
• GPS: No.
• Sensors: accelerometer
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications: No.
• Functions: sleep monitoring, calories, steps, swimming.
• Weight: 9 years
• Straps: silicone, several colors.
• Autonomy: about 8 months.

Withings Go is one of the bright initial models in the line famous manufacturer fitness gadgets. The tracker boasts a long operating time, various wearing options (on the hand, on keys, on clothes) and an easy-to-read E-Ink screen with a visual representation of current activity.

Go can track not only running, but also swimming, and automatically switches between activities. In addition to counting steps, distance and calories burned, the tracker analyzes sleep in detail and displays statistics in the mobile application.

• Price: 4,167 rubles.
• Compatibility: Android 4.4, iOS 8.0.
• Operating system: No.
• Display: one LED.
• Moisture protection: dive up to 3 meters.
• Heart rate monitor: No.
• GPS: No.
• Sensors: accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer.
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications: No.
• Functions: voice trainer, running, swimming, cycling, boxing.
• Weight: 6 years
• Straps: silicone, one color.
• Autonomy: about 6 months.

The strengths of the tracker include high accuracy of measurements thanks to the use of a nine-axis Omni Motion sensor and the ability to track activities such as running, cycling, swimming and even boxing. The bracelet is attached to the wrist or ankle; it is also possible to use two trackers at once, for example in boxing.

Another advantage of Moov Now is the virtual coach function. In the mobile application, you can specify physical parameters and, after selecting the type of workout, follow voice and visual prompts.

• Price: 6,778 rubles.
• Compatibility: Android 4.4, iOS 7.0.
• Operating system: modified Android.
• Display: OLED, 1.34″, 320 × 300.
• Moisture protection: IP67.
• Heart rate monitor: There is.
• GPS: There is.
• Sensors: accelerometer, magnetometer.
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications: calls, SMS, third-party applications.
• Functions: sleep monitoring, calories, steps, weather, compass, MP3 player.
• Weight:'54
• Straps: silicone, 2 colors.
• Autonomy: up to 5 days (2–3 days in active mode).

The first smart watch from Xiaomi, released by its subsidiary brand Huami. Despite the relatively low cost, this is a full-fledged fitness device in a ceramic case with Gorilla Glass, a heart rate monitor and GPS, running Android Wear. In addition to walking and running, AmazFit can track cycling and other activities.

The watch not only displays notifications, but also allows you to interact with them. If you pre-load music into the memory (up to 4 GB), then by connecting Bluetooth headphones, you can enjoy your favorite tracks during training.

• Price: 6,100 rubles.
• Compatibility:
• Operating system: No.
• Display: 5 LED indicators.
• Moisture protection: WR50.
• Heart rate monitor: No.
• GPS: No.
• Sensors: accelerometer
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications: calls, SMS, mail.
• Functions: pedometer, distance traveled, floors, calories, sleep, clock.
• Weight: 25
• Straps: silicone, 4 colors.
• Autonomy: up to 5 days.

The advantages of Fitbit Flex 2 are its miniature size and the ability to be worn both in a traditional bracelet form factor and as a clip on clothing. The tracker is waterproof, allowing you to swim in the pool, and automatically recognizes types of activity.

Fitbit Flex 2 syncs with proprietary mobile application, which provides a lot of statistics and the opportunity to compete in fitness achievements with friends.

Devices from 7,000 to 10,000 rubles

• Price: 7,900 rubles.
• Compatibility: Android 4.3, iOS 7.0, Windows 10, OS X.
• Operating system: No.
• Display: touch OLED.
• Moisture protection: WR20.
• Heart rate monitor: There is.
• GPS: no, you can use the smartphone module.
• Sensors: accelerometer, altimeter.
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications: calls, SMS, calendar, instant messengers.
• Functions: pedometer, running, cycling, exercise equipment, distance traveled, calories, sleep.
• Weight:'37
• Straps: silicone (4 colors), leather (2 colors).
• Autonomy: up to 5 days.

Charge 2 from Fitbit - updated version Charge HR, which the company introduced in a variety of colors, including limited editions with a leather strap and a case made of steel or 22-karat gold. The tracker has a large and easily readable OLED display, showing data on the current activity level and heart rate, which Charge 2 constantly measures.

The bracelet supports a multi-training mode, can track running, cycling, exercise, and also has a “Breathing Guide” function that helps restore strength after a workout.

• Price: 7,500 rubles.
• Compatibility: Android 4.3, iOS 7.0.
• Operating system: No.
• Display: four-color LED indicator.
• Moisture protection: WR50.
• Heart rate monitor: No.
• GPS: No.
• Sensors: accelerometer
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications: calls, SMS.
• Functions: steps, distance, calories, sleep, camera control.
• Weight: 8 years
• Straps: silicone or leather, 4 colors.
• Autonomy: up to 6 months.

Quite an expensive tracker that will appeal to those who are more interested in design than functionality. The Misfit Ray is an elegant cylinder made of aircraft-grade aluminum on a thin silicone or leather strap.

Despite its simplicity, the tracker can not only count steps, but also track activities such as running, swimming, cycling and yoga. Misfit Ray will also remind you that it's time to warm up, assess your sleep quality, and notify you of an incoming call or SMS. In addition to traditional wear on the wrist, there is an option in the form of a pendant on a pendant.

Devices from 10,000 to 15,000 rubles

• Price: 10,190 rubles.
• Compatibility: Android 4.3, iOS 7.0, Windows 10, OS X 10.6.
• Operating system: No.
• Display: touch LCD.
• Moisture protection: splashes, rain, sweat.
• Heart rate monitor: There is.
• GPS: No.
• Sensors: accelerometer, altimeter, light sensor.
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications: calls, SMS, social networks.
• Functions: steps, distance, bike, exercise equipment, calories, floors, sleep.
• Weight: 44
• Straps: silicone or leather, several colors.
• Autonomy: about a week.

The first Fitbit smartwatch that attracts not only with its design, but also with its capabilities. Blaze has an interesting design with a metal frame protecting the main watch module. Thanks to the gaps at the top and bottom, the hand under the watch does not sweat at all.

Runners will appreciate the ability to constantly monitor heart rate and a virtual trainer, as well as support for connecting to a smartphone's GPS. The watch can track multi-sport workouts, show notifications, monitor sleep, and allow you to control music playback on your smartphone.

• Price: 10,400 rubles.
• Compatibility: Android 4.4.
• Operating system: Tizen.
• Display: touch AMOLED 1.5″, 216 × 432.
• Moisture protection: IP68.
• Heart rate monitor: There is.
• GPS: There is.
• Sensors: accelerometer, gyroscope, barometer.
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications:
• Functions: pedometer, distance traveled, bike, elliptical and rowing machines, calories, sleep.
• Weight: 30 g.
• Straps: rubber, 3 colors.
• Autonomy: 2–3 days.

The second version of the popular Samsung tracker, the functionality of which the company has improved to the level of a good smartwatch. Gear Fit2 immediately attracts the eye with a curved Super AMOLED display that occupies almost the entire front panel of the watch. It is touch sensitive and due to the resolution it looks simply amazing.

The screen displays information read by built-in sensors, of which there are many: heart rate monitor, barometer, gyroscope, GPS. The Gear Fit2 also has Wi-Fi and 2GB of internal memory for storing music.

• Price: 12,270 rubles.
• Compatibility: Android 4.3, iOS 8.0 (partial support).
• Operating system: Android Wear.
• Display: IPS, 1.37″, 360 × 325.
• Moisture protection: IP67.
• Heart rate monitor: There is.
• GPS: There is.
• Sensors:
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications: calls, SMS, calendar, social networks.
• Functions: steps, distance, floors, calories, sleep, music playback.
• Weight:'54
• Straps: silicone, 3 colors.
• Autonomy: about 2 days.

A full-fledged smartwatch with Android Wear that is not tied to a smartphone and can do a lot without it. Moto 360 Sport has a very cool IPS screen, made using hybrid technology, thanks to which it pleases with colors in the room and is clearly readable in the bright sun.

The watch also pleases with its capabilities: it has Wi-Fi, built-in memory and a GPS module, so you can easily download your favorite playlist from Google Music, leave your smartphone at home and, putting on Bluetooth headphones, go for a run. Automatic adjustment brightness, wireless charging, heart rate monitor - Moto 360 Sport has everything that should be in a modern smartwatch.

• Price: 11,590 rubles.
• Compatibility: Android 4.4, iOS 8.0, Windows, OS X.
• Operating system: No.
• Display: monochrome LCD, 0.91″, 128 × 32.
• Moisture protection: IPX7.
• Heart rate monitor: There is.
• GPS: No.
• Sensors: accelerometer, gyroscope.
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications: calls, SMS.
• Functions: counting steps, distance, calories, percentage muscle mass, sleep quality.
• Weight: 22
• Straps: silicone, 4 colors.
• Autonomy: up to 5 days.

An ambitious tracker with an exclusive function of measuring the percentage of muscle mass and fat in the body. The button on the front panel, to which you need to place your finger, is responsible for its operation.

The small touch screen displays notifications for calls and messages, and also reports the following fitness indicators: steps, distance traveled, calories, sleep quality, heart rate and progress towards specified goals.

• Price: 14,900 rubles.
• Compatibility:
• Operating system: No.
• Display: monochrome, 1.08″, 160 × 68.
• Moisture protection: WR50.
• Heart rate monitor: There is.
• GPS: There is.
• Sensors: accelerometer, altimeter.
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications: calls, SMS, social networks, calendar.
• Functions: steps, distance, floors, calories, sleep, activity.
• Weight: 31
• Straps: silicone, 3 colors.
• Autonomy: up to 5 days.

An advanced model of Garmin tracker, equipped with GPS and a constantly working heart rate monitor, which is a symbiosis of a fitness bracelet and a smartwatch. Vivosmart HR+ is accurate and consistently high quality Garmin software.

Despite round-the-clock heart rate monitoring (every 10 minutes at rest and every minute during exercise), the tracker uses battery power very sparingly. Another advantage of the Vivosmart HR+ is the very cool Garmin Connect app, which provides detailed statistics about your workouts.

Devices from 15,000 to 20,000 rubles

• Price: 17,900 rubles.
• Compatibility: Android 4.4, iOS 8.1.2, Windows Phone 8.1.
• Operating system: No.
• Display: touch AMOLED, 1.36″, 320 × 128.
• Moisture protection: WR20.
• Heart rate monitor: There is.
• GPS: There is.
• Sensors: accelerometer, gyroscope, compass, thermometer, light sensor, sweat sensor, barometer, UV sensor.
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications: calls, SMS, mail, calendar.
• Functions: steps, distance, calories, sleep, activity, virtual trainer.
• Weight:'59
• Straps: silicone, one color.
• Autonomy: up to 2 days.

The second generation of Microsoft fitness bracelet with excellent ergonomics, which is provided by a curved display and a battery in the strap. The latter is located near the fastener, acting as a counterweight and without increasing the thickness of the device.

Band 2 is equipped with a huge number of sensors that constantly read activity and related indicators. The screen displays not only them, but also full-fledged notifications that you can interact with. This tracker is suitable for those who are interested in sports, but not yet at a professional level.

• Price: 16,490 rubles.
• Compatibility: Android 4.3, iOS 8.0.
• Operating system: Android Wear.
• Display: touch AMOLED, 1.39″, 400 × 400.
• Moisture protection: IP67.
• Heart rate monitor: No.
• GPS: No.
• Sensors: accelerometer, gyroscope, light sensor.
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications: calls, SMS, social networks.
• Functions: steps, distance, floors, sleep, activity.
• Weight:'48
• Straps: leather, 2 colors.
• Autonomy: 1 day, 2 days in economy mode.

At first glance at the ASUS ZenWatch 3, it is clear that this is a watch for those who value design more than sports functions. The watch can track basic activities and, thanks to Android Wear, works well with a smartphone in terms of notifications, but you won’t find a heart rate monitor or GPS module here.

The main trump card of ZenWatch 3 is its appearance. Just look at the magnificent round display with record resolution, the stainless steel case and the stitched Italian leather strap.

The weak point of the watch is its rather low battery life. They will have to be charged every day. This disadvantage is partially offset by support fast charging: ZenWatch 3 charges up to 60% in 15 minutes.

• Price: 18,890 rubles.
• Compatibility: iOS, Android.
• Operating system: No.
• Display: E-Ink.
• Moisture protection: WR50.
• Heart rate monitor: There is.
• GPS: No.
• Sensors: accelerometer
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications: calls, SMS, calendar.
• Functions: steps, distance, swimming, calories, sleep.
• Weight:'39
• Straps: silicone, one color.
• Autonomy: up to 25 days, up to five days in training mode.

An interesting option for a fitness tracker for those who prefer classic watches, but at the same time want to join the world of smart gadgets. Withings Steel HR is more like that. This is an analog watch with a fitness bracelet function. The small built-in E-Ink display shows activity indicators and notifications from your smartphone.

The watch is equipped with a heart rate monitor and an accelerometer, so it records the number of steps taken, distance, swimming in the pool and sleep, while tracking your heart rate. There are not so many smart functions, but the battery life is pleasing: it lasts almost a whole month.

• Price: 16,990 rubles.
• Compatibility: Android 4.3, iOS 8.0, Windows Phone, Windows, OS X 10.6.
• Operating system: No.
• Display: touch OLED, 1.38″, 148 × 205.
• Moisture protection: WR50.
• Heart rate monitor: There is.
• GPS: There is.
• Sensors: accelerometer, altimeter.
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications:
• Functions: steps, distance, bike, golf, calories, sleep, player control.
• Weight:'48
• Straps: silicone, one color.
• Autonomy: up to 8 days.

Professional Garmin tracker with GPS and a constantly working heart rate monitor, which is at the junction of fitness bracelets and smart watches. Vivoactive HR surprises with its durability: battery life is more than a week. This is largely possible thanks to a special display that consumes energy only when updating information.

As with all Garmin devices, the Vivoactive HR has an extensive list of supported activities: not only swimming and cycling, but golf and even snowboarding. The tracker can broadcast notifications from a smartphone, and also shows detailed statistics on data both on the screen and in the mobile application.

• Price: 18,950 rubles.
• Compatibility: Android 4.4, iOS 9.0.
• Operating system: Tizen.
• Display: Super AMOLED, 1.3″, 360 × 360.
• Moisture protection: IP68.
• Heart rate monitor: There is.
• GPS: There is.
• Sensors: accelerometer, gyroscope, altimeter, light sensor.
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications: calls, SMS, social networks, weather, third-party applications.
• Functions: steps, distance, calories, sleep, music playback, application installation.
• Weight:'63
• Straps: silicone, leather, several colors.
• Autonomy: up to 4 days.

• Price: 31,490 rubles.
• Compatibility: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS.
• Operating system: No.
• Display: hybrid, 1.2″, 218 × 218.
• Moisture protection: WR100.
• Heart rate monitor: There is.
• GPS: There is.
• Sensors: accelerometer, altimeter, compass.
• Smart alarm clock: No.
• Notifications: calls, SMS, social networks, weather.
• Functions: steps, distance, bike, golf, calories, oxygen consumption, sleep, player control.
• Weight:'86
• 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.

A healthy lifestyle in the 21st century has already become a kind of trend, and every person thinks about their health. Naturally, manufacturers of smart wearable devices could not ignore this fashion, and over the past year many fitness trackers have appeared, which in theory should make it easier to play sports, since thanks to special sensors they monitor heart rate, steps taken and calories spent on it.

It would seem that it is enough to simply go to an electronics store and choose the tracker you like in color and shape, but this is not entirely true. You need to choose a smart device specifically for your needs. It is for these purposes that today’s article was written.

Fitness trackers. Selection criteria

Well, in order to choose best device in this newfangled segment, you need to find out the main criteria that you should pay attention to:

• Price.
• Manufacturer.
• Materials and workmanship.
• Features and hardware.
• Size and shape.
• Functionality and additional features.

So, the selection criteria are clear, now let's take a look at the best fitness trackers in different price categories.

Trackers up to $50

Little-known Chinese manufacturers rule this segment.

Specifications:

• Cost – $12.
• Functionality - counting steps taken and calories spent on it, moisture protection.

Specifications:

• Cost – $49.
• Compatibility – Android, Windows Phone and
• Functionality - in addition to moisture protection, the device can offer heart rate measurement, counting distance traveled and calories.

The main feature of this tracker is that it does not have a dial, and you can receive notifications using three multi-colored LEDs.

Trackers up to $100

When purchasing, you may come across the names of world brands and famous Chinese giants.

Sony SmartBand SWR10

Specifications:

• Cost – $77.
• Compatibility – Android.
• Functionality - according to Soniv standards, the device is protected from dust and moisture, and can also measure the distance traveled and calories burned.

But, unfortunately, so interesting device will only work with smartphones based on Android 4.4 and higher.

Specifications:

• Cost – $60.
• Compatibility – Android and IOS.
• Functionality - the tracker is protected from falling into water and you can swim and even dive with it. In addition, the wearable bracelet is capable of counting steps taken, calories burned and measuring pulse.

The main feature of the new wearable bracelet from the Chinese electronics giant Xiaomi is that it has a small dial on which, with a wave of your hand, you can see the time, the data you need about your health, and even notifications on social networks.

It is important to know: the first generation of Xiaomi mi band has still not lost its relevance, although it is a slightly stripped-down device in comparison with the new product.

Trackers from 100 to 150 $

Well, this is the territory of famous brands.

LG Lifeband Touch

Specifications:

• Cost – $140.
• Compatibility – Android and IOS.
• Functionality - in addition to standard functions, the smart bracelet is also capable of measuring the pace of your movement and notifying you on a small screen about various events.

How does LG Lifeband Touch differ from its competitors? - you ask. This bracelet is good because it has increased autonomy and can work for 3 days without recharging.

Specifications:

• Cost – $150.
• Functionality – the gadget is protected from water and dust and can work for 30 minutes at a depth of up to 1 meter. It is also good because in addition to basic functions, the tracker is able to select the optimal sleep phase for you and notify you about calls.

Essentially, Samsung Gear Fit is a compact smartwatch with the ability to monitor your health. The gadget also has an unusual appearance, namely a curved Amoled display (by the way, thanks to it, the device can work for 3-4 days without recharging).

Trackers from 150 to 200 $

Well, this is the territory of devices that are specifically designed for professional athletes.

Sony SmartBand Talk SWR30

Specifications:

• Cost – $170.
• Compatible with Android only.
• Functionality - waterproof and the ability to work at a depth of up to one and a half meters, counting the number of steps, calories, heart rate monitor.

This model of sports bracelet also has a smart alarm function that will wake you up in the optimal phase of sleep. There are also options for displaying incoming calls and messages that come to the phone.

Trackers from $200

Withings Activite

Specifications:

• Cost – $450.
• Compatibility – Android and IOS.
• Functionality - first of all, the gadget promises phenomenal autonomy (8 months of continuous use), since it runs on a coin cell battery and the user will not need to recharge the tracker every 2 days. Also, this device has all the necessary capabilities for a device of this class (measuring heart rate, steps, etc.), and its main feature lies in the materials used.

When you first take this fitness tracker in your hands, it is simply unrealistic to suspect that it is this one, since in its appearance the gadget is completely reminiscent of good swiss watches. To confirm this, the device case is made of high-quality metal, has a leather strap, and the dial is covered with sapphire crystal.

But, in fact, the manufacturer of this product managed to combine premium design with a touch of modernity. Of course, in reality the case and strap are made of premium materials, but the watch face is a screen that displays steps taken, calories burned, notifications and much more.

Related Devices

As you can see, on modern market There are many fitness trackers available. If you look at it on the one hand, this is a blessing, since everyone can choose a device to their liking, but on the other hand, it turns out that choosing the same device is difficult, since even knowing that you need to decide on the model difficult.

Therefore, smart watches are entering the competition for buyers, which provide similar functionality to a fitness tracker, but also have several additional features. So, for example, with the help of a smart watch you can answer a message, read the news, or find something on the Internet without taking your smartphone out of your pocket. In addition, choosing a smart watch is quite simple.

From the fitness trackers side, the following are taking part in the fight: Misfit Shine tracker, Xiaomi Mi Band, Runtastic Orbit, Garmin Vivofit, Fitbit Charge, Polar Loop, Nike+ Fuelband SE Fitness Tracker, Garmin Vivofit, Microsoft Band, Samsung Gear Fit. Well, on the smart watch side: Apple Watch, Watch Edition, Sony SmartWatch 2, Samsung Gear 2, Adidas miCoach Smart Run, Nike Sport Watch GPS, Motorola Moto 360.

If you look at fitness trackers (the cost of the most expensive device does not exceed $150), it turns out that they all have similar functionality: counting distance, calories burned, heart rate measurement, moisture protection and receiving notifications (they cannot be read or responded to).

At the same time, there are many interesting devices on the smartwatch market (the cost of the most expensive device does not exceed $600). First of all, it should be noted that every smartwatch has its own unique design, and in terms of the set of capabilities they are to some extent comparable to sports bracelets, but they have more advanced functionality: free access to the Internet, connecting headphones to listen to music, the ability to take photos, watch images and videos, answer calls.

So, if you need a simple device that helps you monitor your health, then your choice falls on smart bracelets. But if you want to buy a stylish accessory, then look towards smart watches.

How to choose the best one for yourself if there are so many of them?

1. Platform. There is little choice here: Android Wear or IOS.
2. Price. In this segment, you can roam around, since there are both budget models and quite expensive devices (their functionality is the same, but the difference lies in the materials used in manufacturing).
3. Form factor and hardware. Most often, trackers are a capsule or square with a screen, which is inserted into a rubber bracelet. As for hardware, you can ignore this indicator, since the simplest bracelet will work without brakes or stutters, since the main feature of the hardware platform on these devices is that it is well optimized for any hardware.
4. Battery. As practice shows, the batteries installed in bracelets are small, but they all last no more than 2-3 days without recharging.
5. Functionality. This is another similar feature between all smart bracelets, since they are all protected from moisture and can measure the pulse. The only thing that the manufacturer can provide is any software features. For example, showing the time by waving your hand and so on.

Fitness tracker reviews

As a professional fitness trainer, I always need to monitor my health, and a fitness tracker, namely the Xiaomi mi band 2, has become a faithful assistant in this. Since the moment of purchase, I have not been disappointed in it at all, and the indicators are always accurate.

Anastasia.

I became interested in smart bracelets because a friend bought one for himself. On his advice, I opted for the Sony SmartBand SWR10, since this is a proven brand and the gadget itself is quite nice to iron and can pass for ordinary wrist watch. As a result, they became my good companion during sports.

I bought myself a smart bracelet called Xiaomi mi band, because I wanted to buy myself a cute, but at the same time smart and, most importantly, practical accessory and planned to use it as an alarm clock, since I read that it determines the time when the user needs to catch a cold and so that I have a wrist alert about notifications. I want to say that the device copes with its basic functions perfectly well and there is not the slightest complaint about its operation, and with the help of removable straps different colors The bracelet matches any style of clothing.

You can meet more and more often a person with a plastic band on his wrist. And not only in the fitness room or on the treadmill in the park, but also in a non-sports environment. It is not glamorous enough to be worn for beauty, and it is not a medical device. Then what's the point?

Trackers: fashion for health

Health fashion is a bright sign of our time, like all gadgets, without which it is already difficult to imagine modern world. Fitness bracelets - know-how recent years, a successful combination of both trends in the next “smart” accessory of our lives. This is not an item of extreme necessity, but at the same time it is not a toy, not a trifle.

The bracelet placed on the pulse zone provides a kind of constant medical supervision at work of the heart. Taking into account the readings of the device, you can balance the load, adjust rest periods and train effectively without overexertion.

Heart rate measurement is a mandatory, but not the only function of this miracle device, which is otherwise called a tracker. Its capabilities are much wider. Depending on the intended functionality, there are several options for fitness bracelets.

With heart rate monitor and smart alarm clock

This bracelet will not only provide information about the heartbeat, but will also carefully wake you up. He will need to set an interval for waking up, and the alarm clock will choose the time for the alarm to sound, and the most suitable one.

How will he do this? While the owner is sleeping, the bracelet works, records changes in postures, reads sleep phases, and builds graphs. Then it selects the optimal moment for lifting. The bracelet knows when to wake up, so that the person wakes up well-rested and alert. Uses soft vibration for this, rather than loud music. This also applies to daytime sleep; you just need to put the fitness tracker into sleep mode.

With heart rate monitor and blood pressure

Some fitness trackers are equipped with blood pressure sensors. You shouldn’t trust the gadget 100%. Errors in readings can be significant. But medical accuracy is secondary here; changes in minimum and maximum blood pressure values ​​are more valuable.

Bracelets with a tonometer function often represent a multi-tracker, a kind of mobile healthcare, since they can additionally determine the level of sugar and fluid in tissues, the mass of adipose tissue, breathing amplitude, and count calories. It’s fair to admit that the correctness of measurements is not the strong point of universal trackers.

Smart pedometer - motivator of physical activity

Step counting is a basic function of fitness trackers. With its help, you can develop an individual weight loss program, learn about the number of meters traveled and calories burned. The daily number of steps is set arbitrarily. Upon reaching the goal, the bracelet will happily congratulate the owner on completing the plan. If he is lazy and not active enough, the electronic “controller” will remind him with vibration that it is time to leave his home.

Some models track and view physical activity: , roller skates, bicycle. They are also able to count steps and floors.

About amphibious bracelets

Especially for swimmers, the designers have developed bracelets that work properly at depth, and you can dive with them. In a waterproof bracelet, you can take a shower without fear of damage. But moisture protection does not apply to all models of these devices.. Despite the claimed water resistance, most only withstand the rain test.

With heart rate monitor for iPhone and Android

Fitness trackers work in tandem with a smartphone or computer. The parameters of human activity recorded by the sensors are transmitted via Bluetooth to a special application installed on the communicator. It is downloaded to manage the functionality included in the sports tracker. The application is the “brain” and statistical center of the device, and it is individual for bracelets from different manufacturers. Tracker synchronization is also selective. Some operate in tandem with the Android or Apple iOS operating systems, others with the iPhone.

Work begins with setting up the application and designating the goals that you plan to achieve in a day. The indicator on the bracelet is designed to display the process in real time or show hours and minutes.

On your favorite mobile device you can view the entire statistical reporting log according to daytime and nighttime physiological indicators: how much you moved, whether you did sports and what kind of sports, how many calories you spent, how long and how well you slept. The bracelet, like an experienced and caring trainer, having analyzed the lifestyle of its owner, will create a training program or personal plan actions to promote health. And, what is important, it will constantly push you towards the goal.

How to choose the bracelet you need

For four years now, heart rate monitor bracelets have been walking and running with us literally hand in hand. An increasing number of manufacturers are mastering their production, and popular brands are including a new position in their catalogs. How to navigate the wide range of models and choose the right and useful one specifically for yourself? How not to overpay and, at the same time, purchase a quality item?

To begin with you need to decide what the bracelet is for, and which of its features are prioritized. Selection options worth paying attention to:

• Heart rate monitoring while running. A sports tracker with a heart rate monitor will do.
• Stimulation of daily activity. It is enough to have a simple model with a pedometer and counting meters traveled.
• Slimming bracelet. You need a calorie tracker that can count them. According to the entered data about the lunch or dinner eaten and based on the energy balance produced, the program will give a hint on how much to move if you want to lose weight.
• Regulating sleep and awakening. A bracelet with a vibration alarm function is what you need. It only wakes up the owner of the bracelet; others cannot hear it.
• Water protection. This rating ranges from waterproof to waterproof. The need for the latter is only for those training in the pool.
• External aesthetics. The display adds to the attractiveness of the trackers. It also reduces the operating time of the gadget without recharging. If a person only needs one screen - a smartphone, then he can do without these designer bells and whistles. But an indication of one type or another is desirable for convenience.

If there are several problems in your lifestyle and you want to solve everything at once, then it is recommended to opt not just for a “smart” device, but for a “reasonable” device, where the described functions are not only combined, but also expanded.

The ideal fitness bracelet, what is it like?

Before moving on to a review of fitness bracelet manufacturers, it should be noted that there are many more worthy trackers now than just a couple of years ago. Although it is difficult to point to a reference tracker, its criteria have been formed, and they are as follows:

• accurate readings without errors;
• synchronization with possible a large number operating systems(platforms);
• high-quality battery that works for a long time without recharging;
• advanced and easy-to-use application;
• protection from moisture;
• indication (the ability to track personal progress using LEDs);
• inconspicuousness and compatibility with clothing (neutrality of design).

Manufacturer comparison table

Chinese fitness bracelets

China's manufacturers have also succeeded in this electronics sector. Practice shows that many bracelets are no worse in quality than branded ones. Among them there are blatant toys that do not deserve attention, but certain brands of trackers are already generally recognized.

So, leader of the budget sector - Xiaomi Mi Band. It can do everything the expensive Jawbone can do, but it costs a penny and works well. There are no serious complaints about Huawei TalkBand B1 either. All “Chinese” people, of course, don’t deserve five-star reviews. There are problems with stability in operation, the declared functions are missing, but more expensive models also suffer from this.

Fitness bracelets have become popular in lately. Not long ago we wrote about the fitness bracelet and even compiled ratings. But not all gadgets with a heart rate sensor are included. This sensor is called a heart rate monitor - it measures and displays your heart rate on the smartphone screen (it can also display data on the screen of the tracker itself).

The best fitness bracelets with heart rate monitor

1st place – Xiaomi Mi Band 2 (2000 rubles)

One of the most popular and successful bracelets with a heart rate monitor. The device from the Chinese brand Xiaomi combines cool characteristics and affordable price. He collects many positive feedback, and this is completely justified.

In addition to the fact that it can measure heart rate, it also sends notifications about events on social networks, SMS messages, etc. It is equipped with a display (main module), which is attached to a silicone strap. Monitoring physical activity, sleep, calories - all this is included

The device holds a battery charge for a long time and boasts a highly accurate pedometer. But there are complaints about the not very convenient heart rate sensor - the edges of the sensor literally cut into the skin of the hand, but you can put up with this.

Essentially, this is the best and most affordable heart rate monitor available today. We recommend.

Video review:

2nd place – Mio Fuse (7500-9000 rubles)

Mio Fuse is an expensive gadget, the cost of which is primarily justified by its very accurate heart rate monitor. This means that it measures heart rate with minimal error. Therefore, the device is popular among athletes.

In addition, he monitors physical activity in general, sleep phase and calories. Its characteristics in general do not differ from those of any fitness tracker, but the main difference is an accurate heart rate monitor with convenient adjustment of heart rate intervals.

Some users complain that the software is far from being the best. It's hard to pair with the phone. This is especially true for the program for iOS - it can simply freeze. Well, this bracelet does not have a full-fledged alarm clock based on sleep phases. Although this can be solved programmatically.

Video review:

3rd place – Samsung Gear Fit2 (11600-13000 rubles)

Cool bracelet from Samsung, but also quite expensive. His average cost exceeds 11,000 rubles and can reach up to 13,000 in some stores.

However, high price justified. This gadget is quite “powerful”, because... it uses a 2-core processor with a frequency of 1 GHz, there is 512 MB of memory and 4 GB of memory for data. The 1.5-inch display deserves special attention. It is also stuffed with various sensors: gyroscope, accelerometer, heart rate monitor with continuous measurement capability, altimeter, GPS tracker.

Of course, the device can send notifications about various events: calls, messages, etc. Essentially, this is a smart watch, although not quite a full-fledged one, because... The functionality is a little lacking.

The battery charge lasts for 3 days. The device fits perfectly on the hand and measures the pulse relatively accurately. All the goodies (sleep monitoring, physical activity monitoring) are included. You can also highlight the good information content: the screen displays the necessary information without anything unnecessary.

Video review:

4th place – Healbe Gobe (9600 rubles)

Another expensive, but quite cool fitness bracelet with a pulse (heart rate) sensor and excellent synchronization with Android and iOS gadgets.

First of all, I would like to highlight Flow Technology, which accurately measures and displays the level of calories burned by measuring glucose levels in cells. It can also detect stress levels, distance traveled, blood pressure and heart rate. Of course, this is one of the best bracelets for sports - it even notifies you when you need to drink water. Among other things, the device is well assembled and fits perfectly on the hand.

There are also disadvantages: the model quickly discharges and does not warn you about it. On average, it needs to be charged once a day, no less.

Well, in general, the gadget is very good, and its accuracy in measuring heart rate is a big advantage.

Video review:

5th place – US Medica CardioFit (5000 rubles)

The next good heart rate monitor is the US Medica CardioFit, which costs 5,000 rubles. As expected, it works with smartphones on iOS and Android, is waterproof and is a silicone strap with a main module (like everything else).

The gadget is equipped with heart rate sensors (with the possibility of continuous measurement) and an accelerometer. He knows how to monitor physical activity, sleep and calories. Essentially, this is a classic fitness bracelet for little money.

The device is lightweight and almost invisible on the hand, there is a function to protect against the loss of the phone and remote photography, good software. As for the shortcomings, there are some: first of all, it is not the most accurate step counting (+- 200), although this is not critical. There is sleep monitoring, but there is no “smart alarm clock” function, and no one needs these 2 functions without each other. There are also complaints about inaccurate calorie and heart rate counting, although this is only an isolated review.

To summarize, the device is not bad, etc. it collects positive reviews, we put it in 5th place.

Video review:

6th place – Mio Link (5000-6000 rubles)

A unique device designed for scuba divers. A special feature is the water resistance class WR200, which allows you to dive with a bracelet under water with scuba gear. The only sensor here is a heart rate monitor, but it is very accurate.

The main advantage of the device is precisely the accurate measurement of pulse. It is highly specialized, so it performs its main function perfectly. If you are interested in the accuracy of heart rate measurement and you do not need various secondary sensors (accelerometer, altimeter, etc.), then we recommend this model first. Its main drawback is that for accurate measurements the device must be tied tightly on the hand. This may cause discomfort, but there is nothing critical about it.

Given its low popularity, the model collects few reviews. Therefore, we put him only in 6th place.

Video review:

7th place – Polar A360 (HR) (12-15 thousand rubles)

The next worthy bracelet with a heart rate monitor is Polar A360 (HR), and it will cost 12-15 thousand. Keep in mind that the price range is large, so there is a “reason” to look for the seller more carefully - you can definitely find it cheaper.

Technically, the model does not surprise, but does not disappoint either. She can inform about various events, including sms, mail, calendar, social media. As for sensors, there is an accelerometer and heart rate monitor. Consequently, monitoring of physical activity, calories and sleep is available.

The bracelet collects positive reviews, albeit a little. Its disadvantages are the following: it analyzes sleep only conditionally, it overestimates the number of steps, and after long periods of exertion, the hand sweats under the strap.

Video review:

8th place – Adidas miCoach Fit Smart (13,000 rubles)

A sports gadget from Adidas that is compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows Phone phones. It is equipped with a small 0.8-inch screen, an accelerometer and a built-in heart rate monitor. The 200 mAh battery will provide a fairly long battery life. autonomous operation. Well, there is also a function for monitoring calories and physical activity.

One of the main advantages is compatibility with the Runtastic and Runkeeper applications, which are relevant for runners (you can configure compatibility in the parameters). Well, and most importantly, many users indicate that it measures the pulse accurately, which is the main thing. Others, on the contrary, write that the product is raw and no effect is visible from its use. This is an ordinary and simple fitness bracelet that does not stand out from the majority.

It’s difficult for us to judge, because... There are few reviews. Therefore only 8th place.

Video review:

9th place – Fitbit Charge 2 (10500-13000 rubles)

It’s difficult to single out this model in any way, but let’s start with dry characteristics: the model is compatible with literally all popular phone OSs, there is OLED screen, can notify about events on the phone, and is equipped with various sensors: altimeter, heart rate monitor, accelerometer.

Also able to monitor physical activity, calories and sleep. There is a breathing guide and the ability to connect to a smartphone’s GPS.

There are user complaints about the uncomfortable rubber strap, which can leave an indentation on the skin. Also, vibration does not always work with notifications and there is no “smart alarm” function. Some buyers question the accuracy of the step measurement, and the water resistance only really protects against sweat and splashes. And if you wash your hands with a bracelet, the latter may break.

Video review:

10th place – Microsoft Band (15,000 rubles)

The last place is for the Microsoft Band. We're actually not sure if it's any good. It collected only a few positive reviews, so we cannot judge it. They put him in 10th place just to complete this TOP. And we could not find more or less suitable models.

Technically, this fitness bracelet from Microsoft is not bad. It is protected from splashes and rain, and is compatible with gadgets running the most popular OS. There is a light sensor, thermometer, gyroscope, accelerometer, compass and heart rate monitor. Moreover, it supports GPS and can send notifications about messages and weather.

Video review: