Fitness trackers have come a long way from the simple bands that tracked steps and little else. Modern trackers can monitor everything from your heart health to how well you’ve recovered from a hard bout of training. They’ve got sensors galore and, in some cases, can give smartwatches a run for their money. Whatever your fitness goals are, there’s probably a fitness tracker that can help you achieve them.
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There's never been a better selection of fitness trackers available, but with choice comes confusion.

Each year, we test and review dozens of models to help you find the best one for your needs and budget. We evaluate for several factors including accuracy, battery life, ease of setup and use, features, price, specs, and style.

With so many excellent options on the market, which one is right for you? We've gathered the best models we've tested here to help you decide. Read on for our top picks, followed by what to look for when choosing a fitness tracker.
LIKE EVERY PIECE of gear you wear on your body day in and day out, fitness trackers are incredibly personal. They have to be comfortable and attractive, sure, but they must also fit your lifestyle, as well as when and how you like to work out. Do you bike, row, or do strength training? Do you run on trails for hours at a time, or do you just want a reminder to get up every hour?

No matter what your needs are, there’s never been a better time to find a powerful, sophisticated tool that can help you optimize your workouts or jump-start your routine. We’ve tested dozens over the years to bring you these picks. While you’re at it, don’t forget to check out our Best Smartwatches and Best Running Gear guides.

Updated January 2023: We added the Fitbit Inspire 3, Google Pixel Watch, and Coros Apex 2 Pro, and updated links and pricing throughout.

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Best All-Around
Fitbit Charge 5
Even as Fitbit has faced stiff competition from other manufacturers—most notably, the Apple Watch—its trackers have always won me over. They hit a very specific sweet spot between attractiveness, affordability, accessibility, and ease of use. They're perfect for everyone who isn't an ultra-marathoner or a semipro powerlifter trying to hit a PR.

The Charge line has consistently reached the top of our rankings, and the Charge 5 (8/10, WIRED Recommends) is no exception. Last year's iteration introduced softer lines, a bright AMOLED screen, and almost every sensor you could want, from stress scans to electrocardiograms. Like the Apple Watch does with iPhones, the Charge 5 fast-pairs to Android phones and has both onboard and connected GPS so you can track outdoor workouts without a hitch. It also now has an FDA-cleared feature to detect atrial fibrillation, via Fitbit's new Heart Rhythm Notifications feature. The major downside is that you do still have to pay $10 per month, or $80 per year, for a Fitbit Premium subscription to access most of Fitbit's best features. Fitbit is also now owned by Google, which might deter you. All in all, the hardware is still less expensive and easier to use than others on this list.
Finding the best fitness tracker comes down to four questions:

Do you prefer a band or watch-style fitness tracker?
What activities do you plan to track?
Do you care about the brand or the platform?
Are there any special features you need like SpO2 tracking, built-in GPS, or an ECG?
Once you know what features and activities matter the most to you, it’s much easier to pick the right fitness tracker.