Fitness Trackers

[neil_g]

I've got some rainforest vouchers that need spending, I'm thinking of joining the whole fitness tracker trend to try and get my behind in gear.

Does anyone wear one alongside a "normal" watch too? Not necessarily the same wrist, that may look a bit too daft..

Basically I have narrowed my decision to 3 options and from what I've read have formed some pros/cons. At the moment I think I'm leaning toward the Garmin. I'm thinking out loud a little but if anyone want to chip in feel free

Fitbit Charge HR (£99)

Pros
Built in HR
Vibration alerts
Step and floor tracking
Sleep monitor
Caller ID
Feature stacked app

Cons
Only 5 day battery
Only splash proof
Limited stock of colours (without huge price hike)
Most expensive option

Garmin Vivofit 2 (£73)

Pros
Already have Garmin Connect account
1 year battery life?
Waterproof to 50m
Sleep monitor
Prompt you to get moving

Cons
HR is via external sensor*
No vibration alerts
No caller ID etc

*I do have a Garmin HR strap from my 800 GPS, although unsure on compatibility

Xiaomi Mi Band (£14)

Pros
Cheap
Smart alarm/sleep monitor
Vibration alerts
Best option to wear alongside existing watch?
30 day battery
Waterproof(ish)

Cons (based on user reviews)
Accuracy problems?
Basic app with questionable support?
Possible longevity issues/broken units?

 

[neil_g]

this is why im swaying towards the garmin for the battery life. the more i think about it the less the HRM bothers me, apparently the sensor from my edge 800 works if i really need it.

the lack of vibration bothers me slightly though.

 

[neil_g]

Ordered a vivosmart, was only a few quid more than the vivofit 2 plus it has vibration and phone alerts.

 

[neil_g]

I'll admit I was a little sceptical about whether these things were a bit of a fad but I think this could be really good.

I found myself walking around the block yesterday to hit my step goal for the day.

Whether it'll last through the winter remains to be seen

The sleep monitoring seems handy too, although I guess a pinch of salt is needed? I really lack in deep sleep at night.

If anyone is on Garmin Connect give me a shout, I know nobody else on there at the moment..