Finding the right fitness tracker can feel like sorting through a sea of specs, promises, and price tags. I’ve cut through the hype and compared the models that actually matter – based on real performance, useful features, and what you actually get for your money.

No marketing spin, just clear reasons why each one stands out. Whether you’re training hard, starting small, or just want your stats in one place, there’s something here that fits. Here’s what you need to know.

10. Best Overall: Amazfit Balance

Typically $150–$215. The Amazfit Balance offers exceptional value with its 1.5-inch AMOLED screen, impressive 14-day battery life, and accurate health sensors. Key features include:

• Dual-band GPS for precise tracking
• Vibrant, colorful display
• Comfortable strap design
• Detailed body composition analysis
• Heart rate variability and breathing rate monitoring

While some advanced features require subscriptions, the core functionality provides excellent value for both fitness beginners and avid exercisers. The Balance excels in sleep hygiene and stress management applications, making it a well-rounded choice for overall wellness tracking.

Despite lacking premium materials like Gorilla Glass, the Amazfit Balance strikes an impressive balance between features and affordability, earning its spot as our top pick for 2025.

9. Best Apple Watch: Apple Watch Ultra 2

Typically $635–$1,149. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a rugged powerhouse built for adventurers and fitness enthusiasts alike. Standout features include:

• Aerospace-grade titanium construction
• Dual-frequency GPS for enhanced accuracy
• 100m water resistance
• Comprehensive health metrics (ECG, blood oxygen)
• Enhanced sleep monitoring
• Over 60 workout modes

Its crystal-clear display performs well in any lighting condition, while seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem enhances functionality. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Ultra 2 offers an emergency siren and retraceable compass course.

While it may be overkill for casual users, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the ultimate choice for iPhone owners seeking a premium, feature-packed fitness companion.

8. Best Budget Pick: Xiaomi Smart Band 9

At just $63, the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 offers impressive value for budget-conscious consumers. Notable features include:

• 1.62-inch AMOLED display
• Up to three weeks of battery life
• Heart rate, sleep, and step tracking
• Over 150 sport modes
• 5ATM water resistance

The device pairs with smartphones via the Mi app, providing easy access to health and fitness stats. While high-intensity activity tracking may lack the precision of pricier models, the Smart Band 9 delivers exceptional functionality for its price point.

For those seeking a lightweight, affordable fitness tracker with a robust feature set, the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 is hard to beat.

7. Best Smart Ring: Oura Ring 4

Typically $349–$499. The Oura Ring 4 takes a unique approach to fitness tracking with its sleek, titanium design. Key features include:

• Illness detection using stress stats and body temperature
• Comprehensive monitoring (steps, calories, sleep, heart rate, body temperature)
• Menstrual cycle tracking
• Automatic heart rate monitoring
• Up to eight days of battery life

Available in various sizes, the Oura Ring 4 offers a discreet alternative to wrist-worn trackers. While a subscription is required for full access to health tracking capabilities, the ring’s non-intrusive design and advanced metrics make it a top choice for those preferring a minimal approach to fitness monitoring.

6. Best Smartwatch for Workouts: Garmin Fenix 8

Typically $999–$1,425. The Garmin Fenix 8 is a powerhouse for fitness enthusiasts, offering:

• Comprehensive performance metrics for various activities
• Advanced sensors and GPS functionality
• Detailed progress insights
• Impressive battery life (up to 29 days in expedition mode, 13 days in smartwatch mode)
• Solar-powered option available

This robust smartwatch monitors heart rate, stress, sleep patterns, and blood oxygen levels. With support for over 100 workout modes and a sunlight-visible display, the Fenix 8 is designed to meet the needs of even the most demanding athletes.

While it comes at a premium price point, the Garmin Fenix 8 delivers unparalleled performance for serious fitness enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

5. Best Running Watch: Suunto Race S

Typically $349–$517. The Suunto Race S caters specifically to runners with its feature-rich design:

• High-definition AMOLED touchscreen
• Over 95 sport modes
• Heart rate variability monitoring
• Advanced sleep tracking
• Race pacing functionality
• Accurate GPS mapping
• Water-resistant up to 50 meters

Its lightweight design ensures comfort for all-day wear, making it ideal for both training and everyday use. The Suunto Race S strikes an excellent balance between advanced features and competitive pricing, offering a compelling option for runners of all levels.

With its focus on running-specific metrics and overall versatility, the Suunto Race S is a top contender in the running watch category.

4. Best Value Fitness Tracker: Google Pixel Watch 3

Typically $290–$500. The Google Pixel Watch 3 offers a balance of features and affordability at under $300. It emphasizes overall wellness, including stress management and sleep tracking. The watch provides clear fitness data through an efficient interface, supporting heart rate, step, and calorie tracking.

Its design is both stylish and durable, suitable for various settings. The Pixel Watch 3 requires daily charging and is exclusive to Android devices, fully utilizing Google’s ecosystem.

This device is ideal for those seeking comprehensive wellness features without a premium price tag, demonstrating that quality health monitoring can be accessible.

Key Features:

• Stress management tools
• Sleep tracking
• Heart rate monitoring
• Step and calorie tracking
• Android compatibility

3. Most Rugged Fitness Tracker: Garmin Instinct 3 AMOLED

Typically $399–$530. The Garmin Instinct 3 AMOLED is designed for durability in harsh conditions. It features a tough casing, scratch-resistant face, and a clear AMOLED display visible in bright sunlight.

This tracker offers extensive fitness monitoring, including:

• Steps
• Calories
• Heart rate
• Stress
• Sleep patterns

It provides precise GPS navigation and is water-resistant to 100m.

A key feature is its 18-day battery life, crucial for extended outdoor use. The Instinct 3 AMOLED combines durability with detailed health insights, making it suitable for outdoor enthusiasts engaged in various activities.

2. Best Fitness Tracker for Android: Samsung Galaxy Watch 7

Typically $173–$850. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 combines classic design with advanced health and fitness monitoring. It features a durable titanium case and large, scratch-resistant screen.

Standout Features:

• Dual-frequency GPS
• FDA-approved sleep apnea detection
• Sleep coaching
• Heart rate monitoring
• ECG readings
• Blood oxygen tracking
• Body composition analyses

With over 100 workout modes, it caters to various activities. The Galaxy Watch 7 has a battery life of one to two days and integrates seamlessly with Android smartphones.

1. Best Premium Tracker: Garmin Fēnix 8

Typically $999–$1,425. The Garmin Fēnix 8 is a premium fitness tracker combining durability and comprehensive features. It offers a solar-powered option, extending its battery life up to 29 days in low-power mode.

The Fēnix 8 is built to withstand rigorous activities and is water-resistant to 40 meters. It provides extensive tracking metrics, covering over 100 workout modes and offering insights into VO2 max, recovery times, and stress levels.

"One of the sleeker offerings in the way of Garmins, this is the perfect fitness tracking watch for anyone who doesn't want to wear anything too cumbersome on the wrist."

This device transitions between high-intensity activity tracking and everyday smartwatch functions. While expensive, the Fēnix 8’s features and longevity justify its price for those seeking advanced performance tracking and outdoor reliability.

Final Thoughts

Selecting an appropriate fitness tracker can significantly impact one’s health journey. Understanding each device’s capabilities helps in making an informed choice, with options available across various price points.

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to fitness tracking, but there is a right fit for you. After sorting through the noise, these are the devices that deliver—clearly, consistently, and without wasting your time (or your budget). Use this guide as a shortcut to the good stuff, and choose the tracker that actually helps you move, sleep, and feel better. That’s the point, after all.