Top Three Fitness Trackers To Look For on Black Friday
Big players like Samsung and Microsoft have already entered the already crowded arena of bands and smartwatches and not to forget the presence of major players like Fitbit and Jawbone. Meanwhile, Apple is already preparing the grand launch of its much-hyped Apple Watch.
There are lots of popular trackers which can track steps taken and the calories burned, there are even some who monitors the user's heart condition and even sleep cycle. True enough, there are a dozen of choices of fitness trackers which can just do all that. But for this specific shopping event, Mashable has focused on 3 wearables which will serve as a guide on which is good, better and best for those true fitness enthusiasts.
The Good: Garmin Vivofit
This US$129.99 priced fitness tracker is one of those which top the list of users who do rigorous workouts. The Garmin Vivofit, a waterproof device with a curved display was made to adapt to user's fitness habits and is able to set applicable daily goals. Despite the apps that are synced with the device for a deeper look at tracked data, users can easily be updated directly on its screen minus the need to grab the user's smartphone to check all the stats including more accurate calorie burn information.
Another edge of this gadget is its two user-replaceable coin cell batteries which can last for a full year in one charging. Interested consumers on Black Friday can choose from five colour variants: black, purple, teal, blue and slate. It also comes in small and large sizes for a better fit.
The Better: Jawbone UP3
The Jawbone UP3 that costs US$179, is a sleeker much smarter fitness tracker compared to its predecessor, the UP24 model. It is equipped with advanced activity features that can detect different exercises such as swimming, running or tennis for enhanced calories gauge. It can also track sleep which can signify REM, light and deep sleep.
Future software updates for the UP3 will inform users if they are dehydrated, stressed or fatigued by giving feedback and suggestions. Unlike its rivals, this fitness tracker doesn't have a screen which means that there is no display for notifications. Its battery boasts a seven-day life in one charging plus this tracker can also be used while swimming.
The Best: The US$129.95 tracker replaces the recalled Fitbit Force six months ago due to complaints of causing allergic reactions to the wristband. The Fitbit Charge is more or less similar to the older model but it is lighter and now comes with a clasp to avoid it from falling off the wrist.
It is still has the ability to monitor steps taken, calories burned and can also show the time. It is also equipped to track sleep without the need to put it in sleep mode. The additional though minor additions have made the device more user-friendly and bringing the Fitbit Charge in to the top spot among the many fitness trackers this holiday.
In addition, Forbes made a survey and found out that most users of fitness trackers do not consult their doctors about their usage of the said devices and the data they get from the health apps synced with the trackers. But then again, sales of these wearables might get higher especially during major shopping events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday.