Babies and small children do not handle dry air as well as adults. Their skin and airways are still developing, which makes them more susceptible to nasal congestion, poor sleep and skin irritation. This is why many parents resort to using humidifiers — appliances that help increase relative humidity by releasing moisture into the air. When used correctly, humidifiers can transform the arid indoor air and help little ones breathe more easily. However, not every appliance is safe to use in nurseries or toddlers’ rooms.

By their very nature, humidifiers can cause dampness and contribute to mold growth if they are not cleaned and maintained correctly. They can also spread impurities if the water in the tank is not distilled or purified before being released back into the air. Moreover, many appliances generate warm mist or steam that can burn a child if they get too close. Not to mention, most humidifiers simply do not have the looks that would suit a child's room.

These are the issues the Levoit Sprout is trying to solve. Firstly, as an evaporative humidifier, it is less likely than ultrasonic and steam appliances to cause excessive condensation, and only releases mist-free moisture. Secondly, it features wick filters that help remove impurities from the humidified air. Plus, it boasts a curved, child-friendly design as well as a built-in night light and connected app.

We were keen to test the Levoit Sprout and see if it has the potential to land a spot in our guide to the best humidifiers.

Levoit Sprout Evaporative Humidifier review

Levoit Sprout Evaporative Humidifier: Design

• Easy to clean and refill
• Curved, child-friendly design
• Keeps the wick filter dry to prevent mold growth

The Levoit Sprout Evaporative Humidifier looks eerily similar to the Levoit Sprout air purifier we tested last year. Both appliances are about the same size, weight and color, have a curve-shaped design and no sharp, protruding elements, and remind us of Olaf, the talking snowman from Disney's "Frozen" franchise. Perhaps unsurprisingly, they complement each other really well.

That said, these two appliances are vastly different when it comes to the assembly process. It took us less than a minute to put the air purifier together, as the process was smooth, intuitive and well-explained in the provided manual. The humidifier, on the other hand, left us scratching our heads.

It was relatively easy to disassemble the appliance and remove the plastic packaging from the filter, but then we struggled with putting the parts back together — they just would not fit. To make matters worse, the instructions were too vague to help us figure it out. We managed to put the Levoit Sprout together eventually, but this whole debacle did slightly put us off this appliance. Assembling a humidifier should not be this tricky, especially when it is designed primarily for sleep-deprived parents.

Assembly woes aside, the Levoit Sprout humidifier is easy to use and does not require a lot of maintenance. The water tank holds a gallon of water (3.8 liters), but it is small enough to fit under the faucet and easy to hold with both hands. Thanks to its top-fill design, it does not even have to be detached from the main unit to be refilled — you can just take the lid off and top it up straight from a bottle. We also liked that the tank was dishwasher-safe and translucent enough to allow us to monitor the water levels at a glance.

The Levoit Sprout humidifier can be controlled either with the buttons at the front of the unit or remotely via the VeSync app. You can also integrate it with Google Home and Apple HomeKit apps, and adjust its settings using voice commands. Given that most humidifiers lack such smart features, this is a considerable advantage.

Overall, the Levoit Sprout seems well-built and appropriately child-friendly. However, we are not convinced that its price is entirely justified. At $189.99, it is two to three times more expensive than most other humidifiers of similar size and capacity. That's not the full cost, either — the wick filters need to be regularly replaced and each replacement from Levoit costs $29.99. You can buy some dupe filters on Amazon and other major retailers, but they are roughly the same price anyway.

Levoit Sprout Evaporative Humidifier: Features

• Standalone temperature and humidity sensor
• Auto-Dry mode keeps the filter dry to prevent mold growth
• Adjustable warm- or cool-toned night light

The Levoit Sprout Evaporative Humidifier features two manual fan speeds and an Auto mode that adjusts the fan speed to maintain a preset humidity level, based on real-time temperature and humidity data from a provided standalone sensor (pictured below). This is a unique and convenient feature. Most appliances have built-in humidity meters, which means that their readings apply only to a very small area around the unit and may not reflect the overall humidity in the room. The Levoit Sprout, on the other hand, can monitor the air quality where it genuinely matters.

The Auto-Dry mode is another feature that scored highly in our books. The Levoit Sprout activates this mode once the humidification is switched off to keep the wick filter dry and therefore prevent mold growth. We did not have to worry about filter maintenance, as the appliance took care of it itself.

Another thing that adds to the Levoit Sprout's functionality is the built-in night light. We really liked this feature — the lamps underneath the water tank gave it a soft, warm-toned glow that genuinely lifted our mood. Night lights help children ease bedtime anxiety and fall asleep faster, but we can attest that adults may find them beneficial, too.

We also liked the VeSync app. Not only does it allow you to control the humidifier remotely and set schedules for when you are away, but it also provides a good amount of information on the humidity, remaining filter life and estimated drying time. We found the app useful, "clean" and easy to navigate.

Levoit Sprout Evaporative Humidifier: Performance

• Quiet, with pleasant white noise
• No white dust or visible mist
• Gentle humidification without damp or condensation

The Levoit Sprout performed quite well in our at-home tests. While we are not parents and so can't say how this appliance might affect babies or toddlers, we can at least confirm that it does what it promises. This humidifier is quiet, reliable and relatively effective at increasing relative humidity without causing damp, condensation or even visible mist — as long as it is used in relatively small rooms, that is.

According to the manufacturer, the Levoit Sprout is suitable for spaces of up to 219 square feet (20 square meters). This is non-negotiable, though, and we would recommend using it in smaller rooms for best results. The reason lies in its humidification technology. Evaporative humidifiers work by blowing moist air through a wick filter, which creates friction that inevitably slows it down on the way out. Unlike in ultrasonic or steam appliances that can release jets of water vapor without facing similar obstacles, the range and power of their humidification capabilities are quite limited.

We measured the performance of the Levoit Sprout using the provided standalone humidity meter and an industry-grade Perfect Prime air particle counter. We placed the humidifier in a closed room measuring approximately 200 square feet, and then ran it for two hours in its highest output mode. After an hour, the relative humidity increased from 55% to 59%, and after two hours it rose by another 4%. These results may not sound like a huge difference, especially when we compare the Levoit Sprout to, for example, the PureGuardian H950AR (pictured below, this ultrasonic humidifier is of a similar size and range as the Levoit Sprout, but it raised the humidity twice as fast in a test conducted in the same room.) For a less powerful evaporative humidifier, however, we would still consider them acceptable.

This gentle humidification did make a tangible difference. The air felt considerably more pleasant and easier to breathe, and no condensation or wet patches formed around the unit. All in all, no complaints.

The Levoit Sprout also did a pretty good job of removing water impurities. We did not see any "white dust" or visible mist that can happen when humidifiers use undistilled water, and our Perfect Prime air particle monitor only recorded a very small increase in the levels of air particulates. Wick filters are not as effective as the HEPA filters commonly used in air purifiers, but they are still able to capture a good amount of impurities.

Lastly, the noise levels. The Levoit Sprout is whisper-quiet and if anything, it generates a soothing, unobtrusive hum that does not tend to disturb sleep or rest. When we measured its sound levels using a Sound Meter decibel-counting app, we did not register more than 42 dB on its highest setting — that’s equivalent to refrigerator sounds, and within the specifications provided by the manufacturer.

Levoit Sprout Evaporative Humidifier: User reviews

At the time of writing this review, the Levoit Sprout Evaporative Humidifier was rated 3.8 out of 5 stars at both Amazon and Levoit. Positive reviews tended to praise its ease of use, smart features and compact, aesthetically pleasing design. Negative remarks, on the other hand, often focused on its relatively low humidification power, high price and filter replacement costs. Some customers also complained about its relatively noisy fans and app connectivity issues.

One user said: "I took a risk and purchased this product before any reviews came out. I'm glad I did because it does everything it says. In my bedroom, I have noticed a significant difference in sleeping quality, and the air just feels nicer on the skin. The night light is incredibly relaxing and looks pleasing. The sensor is an awesome feature, and I've been able to control my Sprout from work, allowing me to dry the filter to easily prevent mold buildup. I will say, even though I live in an NYC apartment, the Sprout can only fill my smallest rooms. It's almost impossible to raise the humidity in a medium-sized room. This is a bummer because I wanted to combat radiator dryness."

Should you buy the Levoit Sprout Evaporative Humidifier?

There is plenty to like about the Levoit Sprout Evaporative Humidifier. It is quiet, smart-enabled and easy to use, and more importantly, it does a great job of moisturizing the air without creating damp or endangering the child's safety. However, this appliance is not big or powerful enough to suit large nurseries or deliver the best results in extremely arid climates.

✅ Buy it if: You are looking for a quiet, low-maintenance humidifier for small nurseries and toddlers’ rooms.

❌ Do not buy it if: You want something more powerful, versatile or budget-friendly.

Levoit Sprout Evaporative Humidifier: How we tested

We tested the Levoit Sprout Evaporative Humidifier for over a week, looking at its design, features, day-to-day performance, and ease of use and maintenance. We also tested its humidifying and water-purifying capabilities using the provided standalone humidity meter and an industry-grade Perfect Prime air particle counter.

We placed the Levoit Sprout in a closed room and ran it on the highest output setting for two hours, making note of changes to relative humidity and air quality. We also measured how loud this humidifier was with a Sound Meter decibel-counting app, as well as considering the cost and availability of its replacement filters.

Most smart scales measure your weight, BMI (Body Mass Index) and basic body composition metrics, such as muscle mass and body fat percentage. More premium models can also assess more complex stats — for example, they calculate your BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate, the minimum number of calories your body needs to perform life-sustaining functions, such as breathing and circulation) and biological age (how old your body appears to be rather than the number of years you have been alive). The best smart scales on the market can even perform segmental body analysis, meaning they use sensors in both a stand-on platform and a retractable handle to measure differences in tissue composition between different “segments” of the body. However, no single model can do what the Withings Body Scan can: provide you with insights into your cardiovascular health and nerve activity.

This foot-to-hand smart scale can measure your heart rate, ECG (the electrical signals in charge of your heartbeat), arterial stiffness (by measuring the speed at which the pressure wave from your heartbeat travels through your arteries), and Nerve Health Score (which is an assessment of peripheral nerve function, based on how well the skin in your feet conducts electricity). Put simply, the Withings Body Scan is more of an all-in-one health hub rather than merely a tool for tracking changes in your weight and body composition.

What is the catch, you may ask? Unsurprisingly, the premium price. At $499.95, the Withings Body Scan costs twice as much as most premium foot-to-hand models and nearly 15 times as much as basic platform-only devices. Is it actually worth it, though?

Withings Body Scan review

Withings Body Scan: How it works

The Withings Body Scan uses four technologies to take its measurements: bioelectrical impedance analysis (or bioimpedance, used for assessing body composition in almost all smart scales), impedance plethysmography and ballistocardiography (non-invasive methods that measure pulse wave velocity, which is an indicator of arterial stiffness) and electrochemical skin conductance (a non-invasive method for detecting activity in the small nerves in the skin).

All four are suitable for casual tracking at home, but none of them should be treated as diagnostic tools. They are simply not accurate or reliable enough to substitute for clinical tests done by a healthcare professional. The Withings Body Scan may be unusually expensive for a smart scale, true, but that does not mean we can expect results far superior to those obtained by cheaper devices — it is simply unfair. With that in mind, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of what and how this smart scale measures.

Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA), or bioimpedance: This non-invasive method measures body composition by sending low-voltage electricity through your body and detecting how much resistance your body puts up against it. The current will flow freely through tissues with high water content, such as your muscles, and slow down or stop completely in tissues with low water content (your bones or body fat, for example.) The smart scale then uses complex algorithms to convert these electrical data points into body composition metrics.

Bioimpedance is less accurate than Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) and other clinically validated methods of measuring body composition. It is also more prone to imprecise readings, and that is because they are affected by multiple factors, including your hydration level and skin temperature. Therefore, BIA smart scales are best used for identifying long-term trends rather than ad-hoc check-ins.

Pulse velocity measurement: Impedance plethysmography uses a low-voltage electrical current to measure blood volume changes in your arteries, while ballistocardiography measures the tiny mechanical vibrations of the body that are caused by the movements of blood within it. In simpler terms, the scale records when blood is ejected from your heart and when it reaches your feet. The longer this movement takes, the more flexible your arteries appear to be, and therefore the lower your risk of developing cardiovascular disease and hypertension, according to a 2024 review published in the journal Reviews in Cardiovascular Medicine.

In clinical settings, pulse wave velocity is measured using applanation tonometry. Smart scales can produce measurements that closely match this gold standard, but they can't replicate it. Applanation tonometry is typically done when you are lying down and have two pressure sensors attached to two arterial sites, typically on your neck and groin. Smart scales, on the other hand, require you to stand up during the measurement and take the pulse wave velocity measurements from a different body site, according to a 2017 study published in the American Journal of Hypertension.

Nerve Health Score: This is a number from 0 to 100 that indicates the state of the tiny nerves in your feet's sweat glands by measuring how well they conduct a low-voltage electrical current. This technology is referred to as Electrochemical Skin Conductance (ESC). The nerves in your feet are highly sensitive to damage caused by multiple different factors, such as chemotherapy or chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome. A Nerve Health Score above 50 indicates normal nerve activity, while values below 50 signal potential neuropathy (nerve damage), according to a 2024 review published in the journal Frontiers in Neuroanatomy.

The current gold standard for assessing nerve health is through a biopsy, meaning it involves the invasive surgical removal of your nerve tissue. Smart scales that use ESC have proven reliable and are considered a promising non-invasive tool for detecting nerve damage in patients with metabolic conditions. They can also help those patients track the effects of specific treatment or lifestyle change on small nerve regeneration. However, ESC levels may vary by ethnicity, and they may not directly correspond to the state of nerves in different areas of the body, the review authors noted.

Withings Body Scan: Design

• Height- and weight-inclusive
• Durable and does not smudge easily
• Large surface area with a relatively small display

The Withings Body Scan is a solid, thoughtfully designed piece of kit. This smart scale is exceptionally height- and weight-inclusive: it has a relatively large platform and a long retractable handle, and its maximum user weight is 440 lbs (220 kg). To put that into perspective, most smart scales are limited to 396 lbs (180 kg). This is a big advantage: the Withings Body Scan can potentially better accommodate people with obesity and balance issues — two common comorbidities of metabolic conditions and diabetic neuropathy.

It also impressed us with its durability. We tested this smart scale for nearly two months — the Withings Body Scan sustained no scratches or any other damage, even though we accidentally dropped it on the hard tiles in our bathroom on at least two occasions. This smart scale has a clear premium feel to it, and this is not something we can say about most other bioimpedance devices we tested before.

The Withings Body Scan is not just tough, but it looks good, too. We liked its unusually tasteful, minimalistic design and the discreet 2.8-inch (70 mm) display at the top of the unit. Speaking of the display, it may be relatively small, but it is also colorful, easy to read and not over-cluttered with stats and numbers. More importantly, it presents the measurements in an easy-to-understand manner, using language that's body-positive, non-judgmental and considerate of people who may struggle with body dysmorphia and eating disorders.

We also appreciated that the glass platform did not smudge much. Of course, like most smart scales, the Withings Body Scan will inevitably collect some dust and stains — that's just the nature of devices you stand barefoot on. However, we found this smart scale slightly more resilient to sweat patches and easier to clean than most other models we tested before. One quick wipe was enough to make the glass platform look pristine again.

Withings Body Scan: Features

• Detailed body composition analysis
• Multiple weighing modes
• Confusing app layout

The Withings Body Scan is smart in the full sense of the word, especially when it comes to features. To start with, this device can automatically detect up to eight different users, meaning there is no need to log into the app first to connect your user profile before each weigh-in. Once you step onto the Withings Body Scan, it will automatically recognize you by your weight. This may be a small thing, but it makes this smart scale very user-friendly.

Moreover, all of the measured metrics can be tracked in the Withings app, and shared with several other fitness-related apps, such as Apple Health, Google Fit, MyFitnessPal and Samsung Health. This smart scale can also sync with the data obtained from other Withings devices (the Withings ScanWatch 2 hybrid smartwatch, for example) for a more holistic view of your health.

The weigh-ins are relatively quick and easy, and we have never had to redo our measurements due to inconclusive results (which happened quite a lot with some of the other smart scales we tested). The Withings Body Scan tracks most key body composition metrics, including weight, fat-free body mass, BMI, body fat percentage, bone mass, muscle mass, body water percentage and BMR.

It also provides segmental body analysis. Essentially, this smart scale can differentiate between muscle and fat mass in your trunk, arms and legs. This feature is particularly useful to those who want to track muscle development in different areas of their body — unlike most hand-to-foot models available on the market, the Withings Body Scan shows clear long-term trends in segmental body analysis, not just a snapshot of your body composition based entirely on the last reading taken with the device.

However, we would not consider this smart scale a particularly good fit for athletes and other advanced users. For example, the Withings Body Scan lacks some of the more advanced body composition stats, such as the difference between subcutaneous and visceral fat (fat under the skin and the fat that accumulates around internal organs). Also, its segmental body analysis does not differentiate between the right and left leg, or the right and left arm — this little omission could be a considerable disadvantage for bodybuilders and those recovering from one-sided injuries, for example.

Last, but not least, the weighing modes. The Withings Body Scan comes with Baby, Athlete, Pregnancy and Eyes-closed modes. We particularly like the last one — in the Eyes-closed mode, the scale will not show your body composition metrics on-screen during a weigh-in. Instead, it will display motivational messages or a smile emoji instead. Some users may appreciate that the Withings Body Scan allows them to track their weight without constantly seeing their daily numbers.

If there is anything we would complain about, it is the app layout. It is confusing and tricky to navigate, and it took us quite some time to learn where to find different stats. If you like clean, "clinical" apps overfilled with raw numbers, the Withings app may not be the best fit for you. If you are more focused on the overall trends and personalized lifestyle tips, however, we would still recommend it.

Withings Body Scan: Performance

• Relatively accurate body composition measurements
• Exceptionally long battery life
• Seamless app connectivity

The Withings Body Scan offers the longest battery life of all the smart scales we tested — according to the manufacturer, it lasts up to a year on a single charge. Understandably, we did not test our unit long enough to confirm whether that is indeed true. However, long-time online users of this smart scale generally praise it for its lasting performance, even with frequent weigh-ins.

In our tests, the Withings Body Scan displayed good tracking accuracy. We compared the body composition measurements taken with this smart scale to the data we obtained with a much bigger, more precise standalone FitQuest machine in our local gym. Both scales displayed the same body weight and we noted only small discrepancies in body composition analysis. The Withings Body Scan overestimated our body fat by about 2% and lean muscle by about 3%, while body water mass was 3% lower. Therefore, this smart scale proved to be slightly more accurate than the two other hand-to-feet models we tested before: the RunStar 8E SmartScan Pro and Renpho Morphoscan Nova. Both of these models overestimated our body fat percentage by approximately 5% and muscle mass percentage by 3%, and underestimated our body water reading by around 4%.

We also compared the cardiovascular measurements taken by this smart scale with the heart rate and ECG measurements obtained using our Withings ScanWatch 2. Both devices provided very similar readings — for example, there was only 2 bpm (beats per minute) difference in our resting heart rate. Unfortunately, we could not assess the Nerve Health Score as we did not have a reliable reference tool to compare the measurements with. Our score seemed largely accurate to us — but we do not have a diabetic food syndrome and live a relatively healthy lifestyle, so we may not be in the best position to give verdicts here.

Finally, the app connectivity. It scored high in our books: the Withings Body Scan instantly connected to our device and seamlessly transferred data between devices at all times. We have battled enough smart scales to know that good connectivity is not a given, so we truly appreciated the fact that our stats were always up to date.

Withings Body Scan: User reviews

At the time of writing this review, the Withings Body Scan was rated 4.1 out of 5 stars on Withings, 4.5 at Walmart, 3.8 at Best Buy, and 2.9 at Amazon. This smart scale was generally praised for its user-friendly design, long battery life and versatile tracking features.

As one user said: "The range of capabilities/metrics and the superb ease of use and integration with Apple Health make this a perfect support partner to keep on track with your health goals. I love how all Withings devices consolidate into the app for the holistic view of what’s going right now or what needs to be focused on health-wise."

The tracking accuracy and app connectivity, on the other hand, received mixed feedback. One buyer said: "Weight, fat, muscle, and visceral fat readings were inconsistent. Every time I stepped on the scale (and I did it a LOT last night when the scale arrived), I had a different reading. Weight fluctuated 8 lbs over 10 readings, in a span of less than 30 minutes. The scale has decided I am gaining fat and losing muscle (that’s completely wrong), and the app is now showing my BMI as stable, despite having lost 40 lbs in 3 months."

Negative reviews focused predominantly on individual faulty units and poor customer service from the company.

Should you buy the Withings Body Scan smart scale?

The Withings Body Scan is well built, easy to use and relatively accurate, but what truly makes this smart scale stand out among its competitors is its intense focus on long-term trends and a holistic analysis of your metrics. It is a great choice for those who want to improve their body composition while simultaneously monitoring their heart health and nerve activity in the feet — for example, people with type 2 diabetes, hypertension or metabolic syndrome.

For athlete-level fitness enthusiasts, however, the Withings Body Scan may lack the functionality to justify its high price.

✅ Buy it if: You want an all-in-one health station to monitor long-term changes in your body composition, cardiovascular function and nerve health.

❌ Do not buy it if: You are on a budget or looking for something more fitness-focused.

Withings Body Scan: How we tested

We spent nearly two months trying and testing the Withings Body Scan smart scale, looking into its design, features, ease of use, app connectivity and day-to-day performance. We also compared the heart rate and body composition measurements taken with this smart scale to the data we obtained with our Withings ScanWatch 2 and FitQuest machine (a bigger, more precise BIA scale used in our local gym). Finally, we gave our verdict on the general reliability and tracking performance of the Withings Body Scan.

Tired of bulky, rugged fitness trackers that weigh down your wrist and clash with your everyday outfits? Consider a hybrid smartwatch instead. These wearables combine smart technology with the timeless charm of a traditional, analog wristwatch, giving you the best of both worlds. They often feature physical hands and a non-digital face, as well as advanced sensors and tiny displays that help you track your health and fitness metrics discreetly.

The perfect example of a hybrid smartwatch is the Withings ScanWatch 2. This wearable does not have the top-class mapping features or workout-tracking tools typical of Garmin watches, nor will it help you prepare for a sporting event in the way that even some of the most budget-friendly fitness trackers can — but that is not what it is meant to do.

Instead, the Withings ScanWatch 2 focuses predominantly on your heart health, sleep and general well-being.

Most importantly, it features ECG (it can detect irregular heart rhythm and alert you to potential signs of arrhythmia and atrial fibrillation) and is one of the handful of wearables that offer full heart health reviews conducted by board-certified cardiologists. The Withings ScanWatch 2 also comes with advanced body temperature sensors and can sync with other Withings health trackers, such as smart scales and BeamO (a device that combines a thermometer, ECG, stethoscope and oximeter).

The cherry on top? This hybrid smartwatch lasts up to 35 days on a single charge and comes in a wide range of elegant designs. No wonder we did not think twice about taking up the offer to test it out.

Withings ScanWatch 2 review

Withings ScanWatch 2: Design

• Exceptionally elegant and discreet
• Featherlight and comfortable to wear
• Customizable design with detachable straps

Right off the bat, the Withings ScanWatch 2 scores a big point for its customizability. This hybrid smartwatch comes in two sizes, 1.5-inch (38 millimeters) and 1.65-inch (42 mm), with both models available in black, blue and pearl white, and the 1.5-inch version also available in sand. On top of that, we also have a wide range of detachable straps to choose from. Whether you are looking for a tasteful leather strap, a durable metal bracelet or a sporty silicone band, you can easily find something that suits your style.

Our testing unit was the 1.5-inch version, in the sand color with a white leather wristband — and we absolutely adored it. The Withings ScanWatch 2 is by far the most feminine and elegant smartwatch we have ever tested (and we have tested a lot). It is so discreet that it could easily pass for an analog watch, and so beautifully crafted that we had no qualms about wearing it to a family wedding and other formal occasions. We also liked how featherlight and comfortable it was to wear. Looks- and feel-wise, it scores 10 out of 10.

The Withings ScanWatch 2 may look rather delicate, but it is surprisingly well-built. This hybrid smartwatch is encased in durable stainless steel and covered with sapphire glass for added protection against bumps and scratches. In fact, it is almost as durable as some of the best outdoor-oriented watches from Garmin, Suunto and other leading brands.

This was a smart choice for Withings to make. The ScanWatch 2 is so small and compact that you barely even feel its presence on the wrist, and if you keep forgetting you are wearing it, you are more likely to expose it to various accidents. Take it from us — we must have bumped our testing unit against steel gym equipment at least a dozen times. The good news is that it did not sustain any visible damage.

Withings ScanWatch 2: Display

• 0.63-inch, two-tone OLED display
• Controlled via the rotating crown
• Can be difficult to read in direct sunlight

The 0.63-inch (16 mm) OLED display is both the best and the worst feature of the Withings ScanWatch 2. Starting with the positives, it makes this smartwatch look exceptionally discreet. When it is off, the display seamlessly blends in with the analog part of the watch face. It is also very quick and straightforward to control — simply press the crown to wake the screen, rotate it to scroll through the menu, and press again to select features.

Interestingly, the physical hands will never obscure this tiny display if it is in use (which could happen at around midday, for example). Once you press the crown, they will temporarily move to the sides, and after you finish setting the features, they instantly move back to where they were before. It is a clever design: refreshingly simple and very satisfying to use.

On the other hand, the display is also what can make the Withings ScanWatch 2 difficult to read. The menu captions are horrendously tiny and not particularly visible in direct sunlight. Even those with perfect eyesight may struggle to decipher them, never mind people with visual impairments.

The crown control can be a disadvantage, too. For example, it makes it easy to unintentionally mess with the watch settings. One time, we almost triggered a full factory reset simply because we did not notice that our gym glove was pressing and rotating the crown during a workout. This is made worse by the fact that it is not possible to temporarily disable the crown, to prevent things like that from happening in the first place.

Withings ScanWatch 2: Features

• Comprehensive, detailed health insights
• Basic workout tracking features
• Confusing app layout

Health-related features are where the Withings ScanWatch 2 shines the brightest. Not because there are so many of them (though that matters, too), but rather due to how they are displayed and interpreted in the Withings app.

Most fitness trackers focus on raw numbers, crunching stats and specific short-term outcomes, such as the training load from a particular workout or the effects of your sleep on the energy levels the following day. The ScanWatch 2, on the other hand, is more about holistic analysis and identifying long-term trends. The longer we used this smartwatch, the more it seemed to learn about us, and the better it got at connecting the dots between different metrics.

That said, most of these personalized health insights and in-depth analytic features are hidden behind a paywall. The Withings+ subscription is complimentary for the first month, then it switches to $9.95 per month or $99.95 per year. It is quite pricey, true, but we are inclined to say it is worth the expense. Not only does it help you make more sense of your stats, but it also provides you with access to a rich, well-written content library, guided programs and a lifetime warranty on active Withings devices.

Most importantly, a Withings+ subscription allows you to request personalized heart health assessments conducted by board-certified cardiologists. Every subscriber can do that up to four times a year at no extra cost. We fully approve of this feature and wish more brands would follow suit. Smartwatch ECGs are relatively accurate, but still not as precise as ECGs done in clinical settings. They also tend to be more finicky to take and therefore more prone to providing inconclusive results. Having a medical professional who can interpret this ECG data can offer some peace of mind to those who pay close attention to their cardiovascular health.

The Withings+ subscription is not necessary to benefit from the app's features, though. The Withings app is colorful and engaging, and it does a great job of explaining health metrics in an easy-to-understand way. We liked that it feels less “clinical” and data-heavy than Garmin Connect or Whoop, for example — this makes it very accessible to casual exercisers or those new to health tracking.

We have only one major issue with the Withings app — its layout feels quite confusing and tricky to navigate, and its features are arranged differently from most other smartwatch apps we have used. That’s partly because, as we mentioned before, the app emphasizes long-term trends and a holistic approach rather than raw stats and numbers. If you are used to regular fitness trackers, this approach may feel a bit alien and counterintuitive.

We were also slightly disappointed with the watch’s workout tracking capabilities. The Withings ScanWatch 2 can automatically detect and record your exercise sessions, but it does not collect nearly as many metrics as most other wearables. Moreover, there is no way to check your metrics in the app halfway through your workout (except for the real-time heart rate readings) — you can only access them after the session is finished. If you are focused on assessing and improving your exercise performance, the Withings ScanWatch 2 will surely fall short of your expectations.

Withings ScanWatch 2: Performance

• Up to 35 days of battery life
• Relatively accurate measurements of heart rate and temperature
• Seamless app connectivity

According to the manufacturer, the Withings ScanWatch 2 lasts up to 35 days on a single charge. This sounds about right — we wore our testing unit day and night for nearly two months, and we only had to charge it twice during that time. To put that into perspective, most ECG smartwatches offer around two weeks of battery life at best.

We were also satisfied with the tracking performance. The Withings ScanWatch 2 did a particularly good job of measuring body temperature and assessing the duration and quality of our sleep, which in turn led to reliable menstrual cycle predictions and on-point assessments of our energy levels. Breathing rate, ECG and blood oxygen assessments also looked relatively accurate.

Heart rate measurements, however, were a bit more volatile — but that appears to have more to do with the limitations of PPG optical sensors, rather than the quality of the Withings ScanWatch 2 itself. When we compared the readings taken by this smartwatch with the data we obtained using a more accurate Polar H9 chest-strap heart rate monitor, we noticed that the heart rate measurements tended to be more accurate during periods of rest and light exercise than during high-intensity activities. This is the same pattern we observed in pretty much every other PPG tracker we have ever tested.

We have no qualms about the app connectivity, either. We quickly connected the Withings ScanWatch 2 to our phone and did not experience any issues with data transfer. The software updates were prompt and did not interfere with our activities.

So, is the Withings ScanWatch 2 worth the money? We think so. While $369.95 may not be particularly budget-friendly, it is not unreasonable either, given the overall value of this smartwatch.

Withings ScanWatch 2: User reviews

At the time of writing this review, the Withings ScanWatch 2 was rated 4.4 out of 5 stars at Withings, 4.3 stars at Best Buy and 4 stars at Amazon. Positive reviews tended to praise this hybrid smartwatch for its stylish design, long battery life, good tracking accuracy and useful health insights. Sleep and step tracking, on the other hand, received mixed feedback.

One user said: "First of all, I love this watch for the simple and easy-to-navigate screen. One button is all you need. I’m also a sucker for analog faces. You can’t tell it’s a smartwatch at a glance. The auto sensor is nice when I can’t be bothered to input each workout mode and the readings are usually not too far off. [...] The battery life is great, too. I can go on vacation without needing to pack a charger. [...] I’m planning to train for a 70.3 Ironman next year and will probably be switching to a Garmin to suit my needs. If you enjoy running or cycling, this is still a great watch! Sturdy, aesthetically pleasing, low fuss and not too many bells and whistles to navigate and learn. It’s enough to track your activity and basic health stats."

Negative reviews tended to focus on individual faulty units and connectivity issues. A handful of users also reported poor customer service from the company.

One user said: "When I first got the watch and installed the Withings app on the phone, I could get the data from the watch to the phone, no problem. But for some reason, I could not get the data from the Withings app to sync with Health Connect. The Withings app could read my historical data and also upload it into the app which I really liked but I could only get partial data updated from the Withings app to Health Connect. It would get mileage, and activities loaded, but step count was left out completely."

Should you buy the Withings ScanWatch 2?

The Withings ScanWatch 2 is a beautifully crafted hybrid smartwatch that outperforms its competitors with advanced health insights and long battery life. While it is not well-suited for workout tracking and its app can be tricky to navigate, it is still an excellent alternative to flashy, rugged smartwatches.

✅ Buy it if: You want an ultra-stylish hybrid smartwatch that offers detailed insights into your sleep, stress and heart health.

❌ Do not buy it if: You are looking for an advanced workout tracker or need something with a bigger, more colorful screen.

Withings ScanWatch 2: Related products

It is tricky to find a wearable that closely matches the looks and functionality of the Withings ScanWatch 2. Something has to give, even when it comes to other hybrid smartwatches. For example, most models from TAG, Montblanc, Tissot and other leading brands are as stylish and durable, but they tend to lack advanced health-tracking features or a similarly versatile app ecosystem. Not to mention, they are often three to four times as expensive.

If timeless style and health metrics are your top priorities, consider one of the best smart rings instead. The Oura Ring Gen 4, for example, offers excellent sleep and stress tracking features, extensive customization and long battery life. Plus, it costs roughly the same as the Withings ScanWatch 2.

If you are more interested in fitness tracking, you may be better off investing in a relatively discreet screenless wearable, such as the Whoop MG, or one of the less bulky and “masculine” Garmin watches — the Garmin Vivomove Sport or Garmin Vivoactive 6, for example.

Withings ScanWatch 2: How we tested

We spent nearly two months testing the Withings ScanWatch 2, looking into its design, features, day-to-day performance and ease of use. We wore this smartwatch during the day, while sleeping and when doing a range of activities, from hiking outdoors to gym-based circuit classes.

Then, we compared the sleep, steps and heart rate measurements taken by the Withings ScanWatch 2 with the data we obtained using a Polar H9 chest-strap heart rate monitor, a Whoop MG screenless fitness tracker and an Oura Ring Gen 4 smart ring. Lastly, we gave our verdict on its overall functionality and value for money.

Keeping the house fur-free is a constant battle for many cat and dog owners. Air purifiers help remove some of that pesky hair, but even the most pet-friendly models will inevitably clog up and have you spend hours washing and vacuuming the filters. However, the era of such never-ending maintenance may finally be over. Meet the Dreame FP10 — the first-ever air purifier that uses a 360-degree self-cleaning roller to keep its filters free of fur, dust and other debris lingering in the indoor air.

The Dreame FP10 seems to tick all the boxes for owners of furry pets. Not only is it low-maintenance, but it also features bite-resistant cords and a little tabletop that your mischievous cats can climb without you having to worry about their safety. Most importantly, it promises to solve the most common air quality woes plaguing pet households. According to the manufacturer, the Dreame FP10 can remove up to 99.97% of airborne particles and 99.9% of stubborn pet odors, without making much noise or causing disruptive airflow.

To top it off, this air purifier comes with a dedicated app, voice control and real-time air quality monitoring — and it looks great, too. Needless to say, we were eager to put the Dreame FP10 through its paces and see whether it could earn a spot in our guide to the best air purifiers for pet owners.

Dreame FP10 Air Purifier review

Dreame FP10: Design

• Elegant, durable and pet-friendly
• Doubles as a small table
• Small control buttons and no on-body display

Air purifiers designed for use around pets tend to prioritize functionality over looks, but that is not the case with the Dreame FP10. With its elegant tower design, tastefully toned-down color palette and soft lighting illuminations, it is one of the nicest-looking air purifiers we have tested, more akin to a piece of furniture than a household appliance. It is discreet and unobtrusive, and should not look out of place even in the most stylish households. That's not to say the Dreame FP10's design lacks functionality, though — quite the opposite.

One of its defining features is a small detachable tabletop. We like the concept of an air purifier that doubles as a bedside table, because it gives us more space to store our books, magazines and other small trinkets. This design tweak is not just practical, but also exceptionally cat-friendly. As these four-legged creatures have a penchant for climbing on household appliances, it gives them somewhere to sit and explore their surroundings without getting in the way of air vents or accidentally stepping on the control buttons.

Interestingly, this detachable table can be swapped for an optional pet-weighing tray. This clever accessory (soon to be available on Dreame's website) records the weight and daily sleep routine of your furry friend every time they step on it, and can even automatically adjust the appliance's fan speed to shield them from excessive noise and sudden airflow changes. This data can then be viewed in the Dreamehome app, giving you a handy overview of your pet's well-being and daily habits.

The Dreame FP10 not only has a convenient space for your cat to sit on, but it is also built well enough to withstand their weight and sudden movements. This air purifier features an exceptionally sturdy base that keeps the whole unit from tipping over, and it feels sufficiently durable to, for example, survive a head-on collision with a racing dog. At the same time, we did not find the Dreame FP10 particularly difficult to move around the house. Yes, it is a relatively big and heavy appliance, but its tabletop is so securely attached that it can serve as a handle if needed.

All in all, the Dreame FP10 seems to be more thoughtfully designed than many of the pet-friendly air purifiers we have tested previously. If there is anything we would complain about here, it is the control panel. The buttons are tiny and not particularly visible in low light, and there is no on-body display showing current air quality readings or which settings are switched on. Given that most air purifiers these days come with a digital touchscreen, this feels like quite an oversight. This clunky control panel can also be a considerable disadvantage for people with poor eyesight, or those who simply do not fancy always having to use an app to control their appliances.

The price is another drawback. The Dreame FP10 costs $499.99, making it one of the most expensive pet-friendly air purifiers we have tested.

Dreame FP10: Features

• 10 manually adjusted fan speeds
• Auto mode
• Self-cleaning roller and a detachable hair collection chamber
• PM2.5, TVOC, temperature and humidity sensors

The Dreame FP10 features a four-stage purification system: a pre-filter for capturing hair, dust and other larger particles; a HEPA filter designed to remove tiny airborne allergens, such as pet dander, pollen and mold spores; an activated carbon filter which helps absorb odor-bearing particles; and a metal functional layer that breaks those odor-bearing particles down (and therefore helps remove them from circulation.) According to the brand, this system allows the Dreame FP10 to remove up to 99.9% of stubborn odors and 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. While these figures sound impressive, we could not find any independent studies that would verify these claims.

What we can confirm, however, is the Dreame FP10's impressive range of purification settings. This air purifier comes with 10 manually adjusted fan speeds — most commercially available models are limited to three or four. It also has an auto mode in which the fan speed changes automatically based on real-time air quality data, and a sleep mode in which the fan speed is reduced to a minimum to limit any nighttime disturbances. Moreover, the Dreame FP10 features a dedicated pet mode that works with the optional pet-weighing tray.

The star of the show, however, is the self-cleaning feature. The Dreame FP10 comes with a 360-degree roller that can brush around the pre-filter to remove any fur that has stuck to it. This cleaning process can be activated in the app, lasts approximately 30 seconds, and once it’s completed, the collected debris gets deposited in the detachable chamber.

When this chamber gets full, you can easily remove it from the unit and empty its contents into a bin. You do not have to worry about cross-contamination or bad odors here — the chamber is tightly sealed and the cleaning process does not seem to release any of the collected pollutants back into the air. In our opinion, this feature offers an excellent way to save time and prolong the filter life, and we would love to see it implemented in more pet-friendly air purifiers in the future.

The air quality measurements, on the other hand, were not as impressive. The Dreame FP10 measures only two types of airborne pollutants: PM2.5 (particles measuring less than 2.5 microns in diameter, such as pollen and pet dander) and much smaller TVOCs (volatile organic compounds, such as potentially harmful gases from paints and varnishes). While these two metrics may be sufficient for general air quality monitoring, they may not accurately represent air quality in pet households, because some of the most common pet-related pollutants are much larger than 2.5 microns. For example, fur strands and some pet dander flakes can measure more than 10 microns.

Dreame FP10: Performance

• Quiet and unobtrusive
• Excellent air-cleaning performance
• Efficiently removes dust, hair and bad odors

The Dreame FP10 may have some shortcomings in design and features, but its day-to-day performance is truly top-class. This air purifier did exactly what it promised — it made a tangible difference to the air quality in our home, quickly and efficiently removing odors, hair and various other airborne pollutants, and its built-in roller kept the pre-filter pristinely clean without us having to lift a finger. True, we are not pet owners and can't vouch for its performance around cats or dogs, but we have tested enough air purifiers to recognize the Dreame FP10's superior air-cleaning capabilities and are confident this air purifier has what it takes to deliver great results in challenging environments.

As long as it is used correctly, that is. According to the brand, the Dreame FP10 covers up to 1,346 square feet (125 square meters) and works best in rooms measuring up to 624 square feet (58 square meters). This claim is roughly in line with its CADR rating. This independent metric, measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), indicates how quickly an appliance can clean the air in a given space. The Dreame FP10 is rated 206 CFM, which means it can clean the air once every 30 minutes in a space measuring the stated 624 square feet — and that is enough to make a significant difference to its overall air quality. Based on this CADR rating, however, the very best results (one air change per 15 minutes) are to be expected in rooms measuring up to 300 square feet (27.8 square meters). Incidentally, that’s around the size of the room where we conducted our air quality tests.

The first test we did assessed the Dreame FP10's air-cleaning capabilities in ambient conditions. We placed this air purifier in the room, locked the doors and windows, then used our trusted Perfect Prime air particle monitor (an industry-grade device that can detect airborne pollutants as small as 0.3 microns) before and after running this air purifier on its auto setting for 30 minutes. The Dreame FP10 removed 71% of particles measuring 0.3 microns and 75% of pollutants measuring 2.5 microns (no 10-micron particles were detected). This is a considerable drop, given that both the air purifier and air particle monitor indicated good air quality at the time of testing.

Then, we conducted the smoke tests. We started by burning a handful of matches, then running the Dreame FP10 for 30 minutes on its auto setting. The air purifier removed 98.5% of 0.3-micron particles, 99.7% of particles measuring 2.5 microns, and all the pollutants larger than 10 microns. When we repeated the match test on the highest fan speed setting, all of the smoke particles were hoovered up after 30 minutes, and when we repeated the procedure with a handful of incense sticks, we obtained similarly good results. All in all, the Dreame FP10 has demonstrated it can stand up to the task of keeping our indoor air free of pollutants.

The cherry on top? The Dreame FP10 is exceptionally quiet. Most of the time, we could barely hear it working. This air purifier is understandably much louder at the highest fan speed — when we measured it with the Sound Meter decibel-counting app, we noted around 60 dB, equivalent to the sounds of regular conversation or office environment — but even then, it is not particularly disturbing or unpleasant on the ears. The Dreame FP10 should not keep you up at night or cause excessive stress to your four-legged friends.

Dreame FP10: User reviews

At the time of writing this review, the Dreame FP10 was rated 4.8 out of 5 stars at both Amazon and Dreame. This air purifier was often praised for its quiet fans, ease of use, great air-cleaning performance and high build quality, and several users credited it with significant improvements to their allergy symptoms.

One happy customer said: "This has got to be one of the best air purifiers I have bought! I have four dogs, one of them is a husky, and I have gone through a lot of purifiers over the years. Even the ones that said they were for pets don't beat this one! [...] My allergies have been way better and the house just smells fresher."

Negative remarks, though few and far between, tended to focus on the Dreame FP10's control panel and air quality measurements. As one user said: "It has no visible air quality indicators, except for a little red light that comes on when air quality is low and is hard to see, as are all the controls on the main unit. Supposedly, the external lighting is supposed to get a warmer, yellowish hue when air quality is poor, however I have not seen it do this. If it is doing so, it is so subtle as to be useless. [...] The indoor temp readings have consistently been 4 to 5 degrees F too high. There is no way to calibrate or to enter an offset to correct for this. Hopefully, this and the air quality hue feature can be addressed with a firmware update and are not caused by something faulty."

Should you buy the Dreame FP10 air purifier?

The Dreame FP10 Air Purifier ticks all the main boxes for people with furry pet, from near-silent operation and cat-friendly design to effortless filter maintenance and excellent air-cleaning performance. It is well-built and looks great, too. However, as good as this air purifier is, it also comes with two major downsides: a high price point and a clunky control interface.

✅ Buy it if: You are a pet owner looking for a quiet, stylish air purifier that excels at removing fur and bad odors.

❌ Do not buy it if: You are on a budget, want something smaller or prefer air purifiers with an easy-to-read digital display.

If the Dreame FP10 air purifier is not for you

Looking for something more budget-friendly than the Dreame FP10? Consider the Oneisall Pet Air Purifier. It is exceptionally compact, ultra-quiet and easy to maintain, and more importantly, very efficient at removing pet hair and lingering odors — all for less than $90. That said, the Oneisall Pet Air Purifier lacks smart features and is not suitable for rooms bigger than 294 square feet (27.3 square meters).

Want something bigger and more powerful than the Oneisall Pet Air Purifier? Then you can't go wrong with the Levoit Vital 200S. It is our all-time favorite air purifier for pet owners and it costs less than half the price of the Dreame FP10. However, it is not particularly stylish or low-maintenance.

Need a multi-purpose appliance? The Switchbot Air Purifier Table is an excellent choice here — it is light, compact and smart-enabled, plus it comes with a built-in wireless phone charger, scent diffuser and ambient light. The best part? It is often on sale for less than $199 and can be easily integrated with other Switchbot appliances.

Dreame FP10: How we tested

We spent over a month trying and testing the Dreame FP10 air purifier. We carefully assessed its design, features, durability, day-to-day performance and ease of use. We also checked how loud it was using the Sound Meter decibel-counting app, and measured its air-cleaning capabilities using a Perfect Prime air particle monitor — an industry-grade device capable of detecting airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns.

We started with an ambient air quality test. We placed the Dreame FP10 in an enclosed room measuring approximately 200 square feet (18.5 square meters), then calculated the difference in airborne particles before and after running it for 15 and 30 minutes on different fan speed settings. Then, we followed up with more challenging smoke tests. We burned a handful of matches and incense sticks, then repeated the procedure on an auto mode and the highest fan speed.

After this testing protocol had been completed, we gave our final verdict on the Dreame FP10's overall functionality and value for money.

When you think of a top running watch, certain brands like Garmin and Coros probably come to mind — but we can bet a top dollar that Amazfit is not one of them. This may be about to change, though. The Chinese brand has just launched its best running watch yet. The Amazfit Active 3 Premium is refreshingly sleek, surprisingly well-built and jam-packed with tracking features — all for $169.99.

This is a budget fitness tracker and is not advanced enough to satisfy the needs of professional runners, but then it is not meant to. The Amazfit Active 3 Premium was designed primarily for fitness beginners and casual exercisers "working towards their first clear goal," according to the brand. In other words, it is an entry-level device for those who prefer simple, actionable insights to the complex, data-heavy analysis favored by Garmin and other high-end brands.

That is not to say the Amazfit Active 3 Premium is not also suitable for more experienced runners. It is one of the toughest and best-looking smartwatches in its price range, and it comes with offline maps and up to 12 days of battery life, making it a worthy competitor to wearables that are two or three times the price. Needless to say, we were excited to put the Amazfit Active 3 Premium through its paces.

Amazfit Active 3 Premium review

Amazfit Active 3 Premium: Design

• Compact, elegant and comfortable to wear
• Durable stainless-steel bezel and scratch-resistant sapphire glass
• Vibrant 1.32-inch AMOLED display

At a glance, the Amazfit Active 3 Premium seems almost identical to the Amazfit Active Max we tested a couple of months ago. Both watches are pleasantly compact and unobtrusive, look great on the wrist, and come with detachable silicon straps and engraved-style tick markers on a round bezel. However, look closer, and you will spot some key differences.

To start with, the Active 3 Premium has a slightly smaller AMOLED display than the Active Max (1.32-inch vs 1.5-inch). This alone makes it look sleeker and more like a regular everyday smartwatch than a serious fitness tracker. Secondly, the Active 3 Premium features more buttons (four versus the Active Max's two) — a design tweak that makes it easier to control with sweaty hands or gloves halfway through a run.

The Amazfit Active 3 Premium is also significantly more durable than the Active Max. That is because its bezel is made of stainless steel, which is more resistant to shocks, corrosion and high temperatures than aluminium alloy. It also comes with scratch-resistant Sapphire glass on the screen, whereas the Active Max has no display protection at all. They share the same 5 ATM waterproof rating, though. Both can be safely used for surface-level swimming and shallow-water activities, but they are not waterproof enough to withstand deep dives and high-pressure water jets.

We really enjoyed our time with the Amazfit Active 3 Premium. This smartwatch is a joy to wear. We liked its elegant looks and how light and comfortable it was (so much so that we frequently forgot we were even wearing it), and that it looked just as good with our activewear as it did with more casual clothing. We would recommend the Amazfit Active 3 Premium to anyone tired of bulky, rugged wearables. That said, some people may find this smartwatch a bit too small to suit their style.

We had no issues with using or navigating the display. It is bright, vibrant and easily readable in direct sunlight, and it did not lag or freeze during power-intensive tasks. The only slight complaint is with excessive smudging — the Amazfit Active 3 Premium seems to collect more fingerprints than other running watches we have tested. However, it is not a deal-breaker, given that this smartwatch can be controlled entirely with the side buttons.

Amazfit Active 3 Premium: Features

• Robust workout tracking tools
• GPS, offline maps and turn-by-turn navigation
• Basic smartwatch capabilities

The Amazfit Active 3 Premium is a fitness tracker through and through. While it does come with an app ecosystem and a decent selection of smartwatch features, such as Bluetooth calls, music control, NFC payments via Zepp Pay and calendar notifications, for example, it is more focused on measuring and analyzing exercise performance than keeping up with day-to-day activities. Thanks to that, this smartwatch does not feel overloaded with pointless widgets and niche features.

The Amazfit Active 3 Premium tracks more than 170 different activities, but it is geared predominantly to runners and race walkers. It offers an impressive range of running metrics, many of which you are more likely to see in premium wearables for athletes rather than budget wearables. These include posture monitoring (detection of overstriding, hunching or improper head position during running), lactate threshold assessment (the exercise intensity at which lactate begins accumulating in the bloodstream faster than it can be removed), ground contact balance tracking (tracking the symmetry between left and right foot ground contact time) and running rhythm analysis (assessing whether your breathing, foot strikes and body movements are synchronized).

Despite offering all these stats, the Amazfit Active 3 Premium is still very beginner-friendly, featuring a multitude of running workouts and adaptive running plans (a key selling point for those new to this form of exercise). It does a relatively good job of explaining stats without relying on complex terminology or over-emphasising the need for constant progress — something that Garmin wearables get a lot of slack for.

Put simply, the Amazfit Active 3 Premium is like a pocket-sized running coach — ready to fine-tune your workouts, help shield you from potential injuries and share your achievements with others.

The Amazfit Active 3 Premium also comes with GPS and offline maps, as well as turn-by-turn navigation, automatic rerouting and point-to-point route planning. These features are not as detailed and advanced as those we have seen in Garmin and Suunto wearables, but they are good enough for basic navigation and phone-free outdoor workouts.

Amazfit Active 3 Premium: Performance

• Up to 12 days of battery life
• Single-band GPS not as accurate as dual-band GPS
• Relatively accurate heart rate measurements

According to the manufacturer, the Amazfit Active 3 Premium has up to 12 days of battery life with "typical use" or up to 7 days with "heavy use", which then drops to 24 hours in the continuous GPS mode. Based on our experience, that seems about right. Our usage was somewhere between "typical" and "heavy" — we wore the Amazfit Active 3 Premium during the day and at night, tracked at least four workouts per week, and occasionally used GPS when training outdoors. On average, our testing unit lasted around 10 days on a single charge.

Moving on to tracking performance, the Amazfit Active 3 Premium did a relatively good job outdoors. We tested its mapping capabilities during two day-long hikes in the dense Welsh woodlands and when running around the local park. The smartwatch estimated our location with enough accuracy to prove a reliable workout companion.

However, the Amazfit Active 3 Premium's tracking is not always very precise. It uses single-band GPS instead of dual-band GPS, so its signal may not be as strong in more dense, challenging environments. As such, professional trail runners and wilderness explorers may prefer a smartwatch with more advanced geolocation features.

We compared the smartwatch's heart rate measurements with the data we obtained using the Whoop MG screenless tracker, Oura Ring Gen 4 smart ring and Polar H9 chest strap heart rate monitor, and found that the heart rate readings accurately reflected the intensity and training load of our workouts. The tracking precision decreased during high-intensity activities (above 150 bpm), but that tends to be the case with most budget-friendly fitness trackers. Sleep and stress measurements were quite accurate, too.

On the other hand, some aspects of workout tracking could use some improvement. The Amazfit Active 3 Premium tended to underestimate our steps and upper-body movements (a stroke rate in indoor rowing, for example), and it did not seem to pick up certain strength exercises, either. However, this did not have a significant impact on our overall user experience, and it is not something that we would fret about in a wearable at this price range.

Should you buy the Amazfit Active 3 Premium?

The Amazfit Active 3 Premium is a great budget-friendly smartwatch for novice runners and casual exercisers. It is durable, relatively accurate and comfortable to wear, and offers comprehensive workout-tracking features and plenty of beginner-friendly training insights. It looks great, too. The Amazfit Active 3 Premium may not have the most advanced GPS or mapping features, and its screen smudges too easily, but that is not something we would expect at such an affordable price.

✅ Buy it if: You are a beginner or casual runner looking for a sleek, reliable smartwatch on a budget.

❌ Do not buy it if: You are a seasoned running pro looking for a premium wearable with advanced GPS and mapping capabilities.

If the Amazfit Active 3 Premium is not for you

The Amazfit Active Max is an excellent alternative to the Amazfit Active 3 Premium. Both watches cost around $169 and come with similar features, but the former has a larger display and longer battery life. However, it is also slightly less durable.

If you are not a fan of Amazfit, consider the Coros Pace 4 instead. This sleek and lightweight smartwatch boasts good tracking accuracy, advanced workout-tracking features and up to 19 days of battery life. However, it lacks offline maps and costs around $80 more than the Amazfit Active 3 Premium.

Looking for something more premium? Then you can't go wrong with the Garmin Forerunner 965. This smartwatch costs four times more than the Amazfit Active 3 Premium, but that step up in price is reflected in its specs. This flagship Garmin running watch comes with more advanced navigation tools, a richer app ecosystem and almost twice as long battery life.

Amazfit Active 3 Premium: How we tested

We spent nearly a month testing the Amazfit Active 3 Premium, looking into its design, durability, features, day-to-day performance and ease of use. We wore this smartwatch during the day and at night, when doing gym-based workouts and while hiking and running outdoors. We also compared the sleep, steps and heart rate measurements taken by our Amazfit Active 3 Premium with the data we obtained using the Whoop MG screenless tracker, Oura Ring Gen 4 smart ring and Polar H9 chest strap heart rate monitor.

The Laifen Wave Pro toothbrush is brand new to the market. Having recently reviewed the Soocas Neos II, we thought that would be pretty hard to beat in terms of convenience, and it quickly became our daily toothbrush/flosser of choice. On seeing the Laifen Wave Pro, though, its looks alone drew us in. It definitely has shelf appeal and the stylish stainless steel finish piqued our interest. It looks like a premium product, but compared with other electric toothbrushes, we were surprised by the relatively low price point, given all the functionality. We couldn't wait to try it out.

We've been using it for a little over two weeks now, at home and on weekends away. We're still on the first charge — the battery life is one of the first impressive points about it. Read on for the rest.

Laifen Wave Pro electric toothbrush review

Laifen Wave Pro: Design

• IPX8 waterproof rating — use it in the shower
• Minimalist and stylish
• Weighs just 6 ounces (171 grams)

Before receiving this toothbrush, we read about how some people thought if Apple made toothbrushes, they would be just like this. On receiving the package, we knew exactly what they meant. The white minimalist box resembles a toothbrush-sized Apple Mac box, and so do the small touches like the protective cover on the toothbrush and charging base.

The minimalist functionality extends to the one-button-operation brush handle. There are five indicator lights: white dots show you're in daily brushing mode, and orange dots show you're in deep cleaning mode. One, two or three of these dots light up, depending on the intensity setting you're using.

The other indicator light, in the shape of an aeroplane, tells you that the toothbrush is locked, so it won't accidentally start vibrating in your hand luggage. The final indicator light shows the battery level. It also turns blue if you are connected to your phone's Bluetooth when using the app.

Our sample Laifen Wave Pro was in the polished stainless steel configuration. We must say, it is a thing of beauty, and when standing next to other toothbrushes on a sink, it looks like the most premium one by far. We'll come on to the other visible features that make it stand out versus regular electric toothbrushes later.

All in all, design-wise, Laifen has got this spot-on. The size is ideal, it's minimalist so it will look the part in any bathroom, and it has a good weight to it. We were a little nervous, though, that if it fell into a ceramic or porcelain sink it would do some damage — so we made sure to place it either well away from the edge, or in a regular toothbrush pot where it couldn't fall.

One of this toothbrush's unique design features is that it is the "World's First Oscillation & Vibration Electric Toothbrush". It combines 60-degree oscillation with up to 66,000 vibrations per minute to cover more surface area with fewer hand movements.

The sleek Laifen Wave Pro has an IPX8 waterproofing rating, so you can use it in the shower to multi-task your way through your morning/evening routine if you want to.

Laifen Wave Pro: Features

• Travel/lock mode
• Two modes with three pressure modes each
• App functionality and customization
• Smart pressure sensor

Though this is a beautiful-looking toothbrush, there's way more to it beyond shelf appeal.

As regular travelers, we were impressed with the travel lock. Much like you would a flashlight or headlamp, you long-press the button until you hear a short melody and the plane logo illuminates. Do the same to turn it off. The toothbrush doesn't ship with a travel case, but thanks to the lock, it isn't necessary. The toothbrush heads come in their own little box, so you can transport the toothbrush head in this separately if you wish.

There is an accompanying app for the toothbrush, which, although optional, reveals more customization options than even the marketing blurb suggests.

Within each mode, you can alter the vibration strength, oscillation range and oscillation speed. We turned up the vibration strength slightly at lower intensity levels, as the factory settings were a little too mellow for us.

We were surprised to see the following hidden inside the Practical Features menu:

• There is a 30-second reminder vibration to prompt you to switch regions of your mouth, and a vibration indicator if you're pressing too hard.

• There's a 3-second power ramp-up function, giving you time to get the toothbrush into your mouth before it potentially shakes toothpaste onto your clothes or face. We found the 3-second ramp-up worked well and left this setting activated.

• Another function, the automatic oscillation when the brush touches your teeth function, we struggled to activate. This was potentially due to user error or some conflicting settings, as everything else works exactly how it should.

• There is a Quick Spin-Dry mode that automatically shakes the brush head when you point the toothbrush down at more than a 70-degree angle. This removes excess water to prevent drips and prevent bacterial growth.

• A quirky feature is Bristle Protection. After use, if you lay the tooth on a horizontal surface, it automatically turns the bristles skyward to avoid it touching surfaces. Similarly, if you stand it on a vertical surface, it will rotate the bristles to face the wall, for example, to avoid water splatters from people washing their hands in the sink.

• Finally, there is a Lift To Wake function, which does what it says on the tin. Pick the toothbrush up, the bristles return to position, and the lights show you which mode you're in, at what intensity and the battery level.

Laifen Wave Pro: Performance

• "Dental hygienist clean" feel
• Customizable to personal preference/sensitivity levels
• Outstanding battery life

We were at first a little put off by the proprietary charging base — it's just one more thing to remember to pack when you're traveling. That said, we understand the reasons for it (to maintain waterproofing) — and with more than 70 days of life on a single charge, you're not exactly having to charge it often.

We've taken it on long weekends away and haven't given a second thought to battery life. Our battery indicator is still green, meaning there is no need to charge it any time soon.

It took a bit of time getting used to using the button. It looks like it should be touch-sensitive, but it is actually a pressable button. Two presses change the intensity, three presses change the mode. A long press activates/deactivates the lock.

In the app, we set the brushing timer to 2.5 minutes, but could have chosen anything from 1 minute to 5 minutes. We tended to stay on the higher-intensity settings, but we appreciate that people with sensitive gums might find the stronger vibrations too intense. That is why it is handy to have so many customization options.

We were pleased with the quality of the cleaning, and found we could achieve that "dental hygienist clean" feeling. The brushing experience is nice, the weight in your hand makes the toothbrush feel premium, and the extra functionality makes brushing your teeth that little bit more enjoyable.

Laifen Wave Pro: User reviews

This is a fairly new product, so there aren't that many ratings on Amazon. In fact, there were only 10 at the time of writing this review. 9 out of 10 were 5-star reviews, with just one user rating the toothbrush 1-star because they could not turn it on. We can't know for sure, but perhaps it was in lock mode.

The positive reviews, like us, not only loved the look of the toothbrush, but the remarkable battery life and the satisfying deep clean.

Should you buy the Laifen Wave Pro toothbrush?

✅ Buy it if: You want a powerful, customizable, nice-looking toothbrush that has a heap of built-in and app functionality.

✅ Buy it if: You travel often and don't want to carry a charging cable. The battery life is immense.

❌ Don't buy it if: You aren't a fan of the bells and whistles. You would probably find this toothbrush over-engineered.

If the Laifen Wave Pro is not for you

If you need help to improve your dental hygiene, consider using the Oclean X Ultra S. This is the world's first talking toothbrush; it is also customizable to a wide range of brushing needs and has an impressive battery life. Randomly, it tells you the weather, too!

Another smart, nice-looking toothbrush we'd recommend is the Oclean X Pro Digital Sonic, which provides detailed feedback on brushing coverage. A great option for people with sensitive teeth.

We also love the Soocas NEOS II. This is unique in that it is both a toothbrush and a dental flosser in one. One device, two jobs, and it does both of them well. There is no app functionality, but there are two modes, Deep Clean and Quick Floss.

Laifen Wave Pro: How we tested

We spent over two weeks testing the Laiden Wave Pro toothbrush once to three times daily. We considered the design, brushing performance, battery life, functionality and value for money. We also tested its IPX8 waterproof rating by submerging the toothbrush under water for a full brushing cycle, as well as using it in the shower.

A good pair of running shoes are always a sound investment, but no pair lasts forever. If you are looking to replace a pair whose miles are all run, or you are thinking of taking up a new fitness and running routine, then now is a great time to get a bargain. The spring sales are on, and we've found lots of deals, from everyday running heroes to the super speedy shoes you will definitely want to save for those personal best attempts.

At Live Science, we know that shopping around can be a chore, so we have saved you the work and found some of the best shoes on sale right now. We've spotted shoes that are perfect for trail walk/run adventures, as well as those designed for personal best attempts. There's even a pair that elites have worn to set world records.

What's more, we've really sweated out the miles in them ourselves to confirm just how well-built, comfortable and truly worth your hard-earned money they are.

And of course, it's not just shoes available in the sale — if you are looking for musical inspiration, you can use our round-up of the best sports earbuds currently on sale, as well as the best fitness trackers and bone conduction headphones on offer.

Early spring is a perfect time to refresh our wellness toolkit. The days get longer, the weather gets warmer and our fitness motivation, often dormant during the winter months, starts to flicker back to life. Plus, it's also when lifestyle purchases can be made on a relatively tight budget.

The Amazon Big Spring Sale and other similar March shopping events are awash with discounted health and fitness products, making it easy to snap up huge deals on everything from running shoes and beginner-friendly exercise equipment to air purifiers and smart scales.

As with everything in life, though, not all that glitters is gold. While many spring deals can indeed help you save some serious money, certain products may be better left on the virtual shelf until even bigger discounts come along later in the year. We test fitness tech for a living and have covered all major shopping events over the last four years, so trust us when we say we know a thing or two about navigating spring sales.

In our experience, the key here is to know what to shop for. With that in mind, we have rounded up five health and fitness products that may be worth adding to your cart, and the two that can be given a miss. We hope this list will help you shop with confidence and get the most value out of your spring wellness upgrades.

What to buy during spring sales

BUY: Old-but-gold fitness trackers

If your New Year’s resolutions have fallen by the wayside, a new fitness tracker might be the accountability partner you need. Spring is an excellent time to buy wearable tech. With new models often announced in the fall, March sales offer significant markdowns on the previous generations of devices.

Our tip: Look for deals on older smartwatches from renowned brands such as Apple, Garmin and Fitbit. While these old-but-gold fitness trackers may not have the allure of a brand-new release, they tend to be just as reliable for casual fitness tracking as their newer counterparts. What's more, it's unlikely they will see significantly bigger discounts later in the year.

If you are not a fan of bulky wrist-worn wearables, consider smart rings instead. These tiny fitness trackers are stylish, unobtrusive and comfortable to wear all day, making them a perfect alternative. More importantly, smart rings tend to get significant discounts around late March and early April, and since they don't go on sale nearly as often as smartwatches do, it's a good idea to take advantage of spring deals while they last.

Our tip: Look for models from high-end brands, such as Oura and Ultrahuman. They may not be the most affordable smart rings out there, but they last longer and perform better than their cheaper counterparts.

• Related: Amazon Big Spring Sale: The best deals on fitness trackers
• Related: The best anti-Amazon fitness tracker deals

BUY: Activewear (especially running shoes)

Spring sales are a perfect opportunity to refresh your sports wardrobe, especially if you are looking for a new pair of running shoes or gym shoes.

In late March, many shoe brands discount last season's collections heavily to make space for the new inventory. Again, older models may not be as trendy and snazzy as the brand-new ones, but do not let fashion dictate your choices here. The technology in a shoe from six months ago is likely just as good as the one released yesterday — and when it comes to footwear, performance and comfort should always take priority over looks.

Our tip: If you want to save as much as possible, head to Amazon and other major online retailers — they usually have a huge stock of last-season running shoes that they want to shift ahead of the summer. However, these online giants offer mostly basic, highly popular models that tend to sell well even at full price. If you are looking for more unique designs or sizes, you may find better (albeit more expensive) deals directly on brand websites.

• Related: Amazon Big Spring Sale: Top running shoe deals
• Related: The best anti-Amazon deals on running shoes

BUY: Travel-friendly exercise equipment

Early spring is the best time to find discounts on portable exercise equipment, such as resistance bands, all-in-one gyms and yoga mats. That is because the summer holiday season is still months away, and demand for travel-friendly kit remains relatively low. If you intend to maintain your exercise routine throughout the warmer months, now is the time to lock in the prices before they inevitably go up.

Our tip: Resistance band sets are undefeated in this category. They are lightweight, take up zero space in a suitcase and can be used for everything from glute activation to upper-body mobility training.

Other great picks include sliders (flat discs used for core work on carpet or hard floors), jump ropes and Pilates bars.

• Related: Top spring sale deals on workout equipment and fitness essentials

BUY: Air purifiers

Air purifiers are a sought-after buy all year round, but they are in a particularly high demand in late spring when the sudden rise of pollen wreaks havoc on hay fever sufferers. If you have been thinking of investing in one of these appliances, now is the time to take the step. Spring sales are perhaps the last opportunity to find good deals on air purifiers, with prices tending to go up sharply in April and then remain relatively high until at least the Prime Day sale in July.

Our tip: When choosing an air purifier, do not be guided by price alone. Check if it has the right specs to suit your needs and preferences, and whether it has been independently certified to validate its air-cleaning performance. The best air purifiers for allergies tend to feature True HEPA filters and come with the Asthma & Allergy Friendly certification mark.

• Related: Amazon Big Spring Sale: The best air purifier deals

BUY: Electric toothbrushes

Spring sales are a good opportunity to invest in your dental health — you can save a good deal on electric toothbrushes, water flossers or dental care products like toothpaste or teeth-whitening strips. The deals may not be as spectacular and plentiful as those seen during Prime Day or Black Friday, but they can still bring a lot of relief to a tight budget.

Our tip: The best electric toothbrush deals tend to be found on Amazon, Target and Best Buy.

• Related: Amazon Big Spring Sale: Huge savings on dental care products

What NOT to buy during spring sales

SKIP: Premium cardio machines

It might be tempting to look at a 20% discount on a high-end treadmill, exercise bike or rowing machine and think you are getting a good deal. However, unless you absolutely need it right now, March is not the best time to buy large fitness equipment.

Major appliances like these see their steepest discounts during Amazon Prime Day in July and the Black Friday shopping events in November — often as much as 40-50%.

SKIP: Smart scales

The deals available on smart scales may look massive, but do not judge a book by its cover. Some of the most popular models — such as the budget-friendly Renpho Elis 1 or the premium Runstar 8E SmartScan Pro, for example — tend to be discounted all year round. In fact, they tend to be slightly more expensive during sale events, while still under the guise of a "deal."

Hold off buying a smart scale for now, unless you don't mind missing out on any significant savings.

The spring is almost here, and this means one thing — it won't be long before the sudden rise in pollen count starts wreaking havoc on hay fever sufferers. If that's you, do not worry. Investing in a good air purifier can help you reduce your exposure to these pesky airborne allergens and bring much-needed relief to your allergy symptoms. The best part? With the Amazon Big Spring Sale in full swing, many of the top-rated appliances are now heavily discounted.

Take the Levoit Core 600S-P, for example. This excellent air purifier is now 20% off at Amazon, bringing it to its lowest price since Black Friday. The same deal is also available at Walmart.

To say that we love this appliance would be a massive understatement. The Levoit Core 600S-P has topped our guides to the best air purifiers and air purifiers for allergies for two years straight, and that's unlikely to change any time soon. It's quiet, easy to use, and its pollen-busting capabilities are second to none. Trust us, you won't be disappointed.

The Levoit Core 600S-P is a force to be reckoned with. This air purifier may not be the most stylish or space-savvy appliance out there, but its air-cleaning performance and functionality are truly top-notch. Suitable for spaces up to a whopping 2,933 square feet, the Levoit Core 600S can remove 99.97% airborne pollutants as small as 0.1 microns. Rest assured, this air purifier will have no problems capturing pollen and many other airborne pollutants, including some of the tiniest smoke particles and dust mite allergens.

At the same time, it is exceptionally quiet and easy to use. The Levoit Core 600S will not disturb you with flashing lights or incessant noise, making it a perfect choice for large bedrooms, studies and home offices. Right now, you can get this excellent air purifier at just $239.99. Hurry, though, as this deal will not last long.

Key features: True HEPA filter, effective range of up to 2,933 square feet, PM2.5 air particle monitor, auto mode, 2-year limited warranty, Energy Star certified, app and voice control

Product launched: April 2022

Price history: Before today's deal, the lowest price on the Levoit Core 600S-P was $259.96, and for the better part of this year, its price fluctuated between $289.99 and $299.99. Today's offers from Walmart and Amazon bring this air purifier down to just $239.99 — the lowest price since Black Friday.

Price comparison: Amazon: $239.99 | Walmart: $239.99 | Levoit: $259.99

Reviews consensus: The Levoit Core 600S-P won the reviewers across the board with its powerful air-cleaning performance, ultra-quiet fans and user-friendly design. Many testers also praised its handy smart features and ability to keep their hay fever symptoms at bay when the pollen count was high. On the other hand, the Levoit Core 600S was also frequently criticised for its bulky design and pricey filter replacements.

TechRadar: ★★★★½ | Live Science: ★★★★½ | Ideal Home: ★★★★½

Featured in guides: Best air purifiers, Best air purifiers for allergies, Best air purifiers for pet owners

✅ Buy it if: You want an ultra-quiet and high-performing air purifier for large spaces.

❌ Don't buy it if: You are looking for something smaller and more affordable (such as the Levoit Core 200S-P, now 23% off at Amazon.)

Check out our other guides to the best air purifiers for pet owners, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, fitness trackers, Garmin watches and much more.

Spring is a prime time for starting a new workout routine, and no wonder. The combination of longer daylight hours, warmer weather and blossoming nature can be a powerful push to start afresh. Not only that, but springtime is also a great time to do it on a budget. March sales are filled with deals on running shoes, exercise equipment, fitness trackers, workout clothing, sports earbuds, and many other fitness essentials.

One of the biggest shopping events of the season is undoubtedly Amazon's spring sale, and while it is a great place for fitness enthusiasts to hunt for savings, it may not always be the best place to do so. Whether it is a premium Garmin watch or one of the best rowing machines, sometimes better deals are found elsewhere — at Best Buy or brand websites, for example.

To help you cut through the noise and save the most money, we have scoured the sales to find the cheapest picks. Below, you will find 5 fitness deals that blow Amazon out of the water.

• ✅Best Buy: Save up to 50% on smartwatches, headphones and more
• ✅Walmart: Health and fitness essentials for less
• ✅Target: Discounts on fitness kits and sportswear
• ✅HOKA: Save up to 30% off on premium footwear
• ✅Adidas: Extra 30% running shoes
• ✅Nike: Over 3,000 products on sale
• ✅Dick's Sporting Goods: Huge savings on exercise equipment
• ✅Garmin: Save up to 50% on watches and bike computers

Best fitness tracker deals

The best early anti-Amazon deals on Garmin watches, budget fitness trackers, fitness trackers, smart rings, and other wearable fitness tech.

Best running shoes deals

Top early anti-Amazon discounts on some of the best running shoes on the market: our favorite picks from Hoka, New Balance, Adidas, and more.

Best headphones and earbuds deals

The best early anti-Amazon deals on bone conduction headphones, sleep headphones, sports earbuds, running headphones, and other personal audio tech.

Best workout equipment deals

The best early anti-Amazon deals on yoga mats, resistance bands, water bottles, fitness accessories and other workout essentials.

Best cardio machine deals

Top early anti-Amazon discounts on rowing machines, exercise bikes, walking treadmills, and other cardio machines.

We love working out to the music blasting through our earbuds, and we are far from alone. Walk into any gym, and you can bet half of the people there will be lost in their own little audio world. Look around outside, and you will see that most runners and cyclists rack up the miles while listening to their favorite tunes, too. Sports earbuds and workout-friendly headphones have become an absolute must-have for fitness enthusiasts.

The best part? Science suggests that this can actually be a good thing. When we interviewed several prominent experts in psychotherapy, clinical psychology and fitness coaching, they all agreed: music can help make your workouts feel easier and more enjoyable, and in some cases, can even help you improve your exercise performance.

As Helen Wells, a Thailand-based psychotherapist, succinctly put it: "Music acts as a healthy distraction." Want to know more? You can find more insights in the FAQs section below.

That said, there is no single best sports earbuds model that we would recommend to everyone. Runners have different needs than swimmers, swimmers want different things than triathletes, and neither of those may need what a gym-goer would. Hikers may not even want the traditional earbuds and prefer one of the best bone conduction headphones instead. With that in mind, we have curated our list of the best models based on intended activities and sought-after features.

You can trust our judgement here — as experienced fitness professionals, we have gone through countless sports earbuds and can tell whether something is worth the money or not, plus we made sure we tested every model to the same standard for maximum objectivity. We hope that these sports earbuds will help you truly unleash the power of music.

Best sports earbuds: Quick links

Best sports earbuds and workout-friendly headphones 2026: Tried and tested by a personal trainer

Best budget sports earbuds

We have gone through dozens of sports earbuds in our lifetime, and admittedly, many were rather budget-friendly. We have a knack for losing them while traveling or damaging them during workouts, so we have learned the hard way to keep them affordable. In our experience, earbuds under $50 tend to fall into two categories: they are utterly mediocre or so surprisingly good that you keep and cherish them forever. The CMF by Nothing Buds Pro 2 are definitely in the latter camp. These earbuds cost $69 and are frequently on sale for less than $50, but they can easily compete with models two to three times the price.

Sound quality is the biggest factor here. The CMF by Nothing Buds Pro 2 sound surprisingly rich and bass-heavy for the price. These earbuds have a real kick to them and can motivate you to push that little bit harder, whether you are lifting weights or racking up the miles on a home treadmill. If you would rather tone down the bass, though, you can always adjust the sound settings in the Nothing X app (that said, some may still find these earbuds a bit too bass-heavy even with the tweaks.)

Next, we have the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and transparency modes. While the CMF by Nothing Buds Pro 2 are not nearly as good at modifying background noise as some of the more premium models, they still perform surprisingly well. These earbuds did just as good a job of keeping us safe on a running track as they did blocking the incessant noise of a crowded gym. That's no mean feat, given how affordable they are.

Lastly, the looks and durability. The CMF by Nothing Buds Pro 2 are rated IP55, meaning they are both dust- and sweat-proof, and they feel quite sturdy too. We must have dropped them at least a dozen times and they still work fine. We are also big fans of their vibrant color palette — most budget-friendly earbuds are only available in black, so it is refreshing to see something this funky.

On the other hand, the CMF by Nothing Buds Pro 2 may not be a good fit for everyone. These earbuds are admittedly pretty chunky and those with small ears may find them either uncomfortable to wear or not secure enough to withstand those more intense workouts. They do not come with any helpful ear hooks or stabilizers, either.

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Best value sports earbuds

The JLab Epic Sport ANC 3 earbuds may not have the military-grade durability of the Raycon Impact or the waterproof credentials of the H20 Audio Tri 2 Pro, but they are well-built, sound well and come with a good selection of app-based sound settings. They fit exceptionally well, too. These earbuds stay securely in place, whether you run outdoors, dance your heart out in a Zumba class or hit your weightlifting PBs in the gym. The cherry on top? The JLab Epic Sport ANC 3 cost less than $100, making them one of the best-value picks on the market.

They also perform well when it comes to noise-reduction settings and battery life. The JLab Epic Sport ANC 3 are effective at reducing background noise without cutting you off from the outside world, and they last up to 12 hours on a single charge (52 hours with a case.) Now, that is not something we see often in such reasonably priced earbuds.

The only downside? The chunky design. The JLab Epic Sport ANC 3 are much bigger and heavier than the Beats Powerbeats Fit, for example, and some people may find these earbuds slightly uncomfortable to wear for prolonged periods. The charging case is also unusually big — so much so that you may struggle to fit it in your pocket.

The JLab Epic Sport ANC 3 are not particularly customizable, either. These earbuds are only available in black, and the earhooks that keep them in place are relatively rigid. If you prefer something more colorful and pliable, you may need to consider a different model. However, this is a relatively minor infraction and not something we would fret about at this price point.

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Best sports earbuds for secure fit

Can't seem to keep your earbuds in when working out? We have been there. There is nothing more frustrating than having to pick your buds up off the gym mat after a particularly complex yoga pose, or being forced to dive underneath the treadmill to retrieve them every time you finish a lung-busting sprint. The good news is that it does not have to be this way — we may have finally found something that can survive our back-breaking exercises.

The Beats Powerbeats Fit do indeed, as the name suggests, fit well. These earbuds are quite small and feature four ear tip sizes, so they sit securely in the ear no matter its size. More importantly, they come with pliable in-ear wingtips instead of the traditional ear hooks. These wingtips do not rest on the top of your ear, but rather twist into it, snuggly locking the earbud in place.

This unusually snuggly design works like a charm. Whether we lifted weights, went on an indoor bike or did an intense bout of HIIT, we could easily forget we were even wearing the earbuds. The Beats Powerbeats Fit have never fallen out of our ears or forced us to constantly adjust them back into place, therefore allowing us to focus on the music and movement in place.

These earbuds not only fit well, they also sound great — with a good balance of bass and treble, and enough detail and richness to satisfy the needs of audiophiles. The Beats Powerbeats Fit are also exceptionally portable. The charging case was so small that it could easily fit in a pocket of our gym leggings.

If there is anything we would complain about, it would be their ANC mode. It is just not as good as we expected it to be. The Beats Powerbeats Fit cost around $199.99, and as one of the more expensive options in this guide, it is fair to expect them to have better background noise reduction. We also noticed considerable sound leakage on these earbuds. In fact, it was more noticeable than in the far more affordable CMF by Nothing Buds Pro 2.

We also need to mention some app connectivity woes. We are not sure whether these issues had something to do with our Android phone or the earbuds themselves, or both, but our testing unit seemed to disconnect constantly from the Beats app. We also had a hard time trying to reconnect them.

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Best sports earbuds for durability

The Jabra Elite 8 Active — "the world's toughest earbuds" and one of the handful of models that scored a full five stars in our at-home tests — have now sadly been discontinued. So, what's the next best thing? Going by the specs alone, we would suggest the Raycon Impact. True, we can't vouch for their sound quality or real-life performance as we have not tested them personally, but they are perhaps the closest match for the impressively durable Elite 8 Active.

To start with, these earbuds are IP67-rated, which makes them fully dustproof and capable of withstanding submersion in water up to 3.3 feet (1 meter) for 30 minutes. The Raycon Impact are also certified to the U.S. Military Standards for ruggedized electronics (MIL-STD-810G), meaning they can withstand extreme temperatures, shocks and high humidity levels. To top it off, they come with up to a whopping 90 hours of battery life with a charging case, the longest of all the models mentioned in this guide. No matter how you look at it, these are some truly impressive stats.

At the same time, the Raycon Impact are surprisingly affordable for what they have to offer — they cost $149.99 and are often on sale for less than $120. To put that into perspective, the Jabra Elite 8 Active used to be priced at a rather steep $229.99.

However, this price difference could be a reflection of poorer functionality. The Raycon Impact are only available in black, for example, whereas the Jabra Elite 8 Active came in four different colors. Also, if the online user reviews are anything to go by, the sound quality on these earbuds can be somewhat underwhelming. A handful of buyers also complained about their touch controls being slow or not functioning properly.

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Best earbuds for noisy gyms

Tired of the gym noise ruining your workouts? We understand. There is nothing more frustrating than exercising to the tune of terrible gym playlists or the piercing clank of weights. However, we may have found a solution to this problem — the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) earbuds.

These earbuds fit well and come in a wide range of funky colors, but more importantly, they have the best noise-reduction features of all the models mentioned in this guide. The Quiet Mode, for example, almost completely tunes out the combined background hum of cardio machines, gym music and conversations between your fellow gym-goers. The Aware Mode, on the other hand, allows you to hear your surroundings, but it still filters out sudden, loud noises (such as a heavy barbell dropping on the floor). You can tweak the noise reduction settings further via the Bose app.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) earbuds not only excel at ANC, but also sound exceptionally well. We liked their deep bass, high-clarity vocals and overall great sound balance. If you are an audiophile, you should not be disappointed.

That said, we would only recommend these earbuds for gym use. While they are sweatproof, they are not waterproof enough to withstand the demands of outdoor exercise. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) earbuds are also relatively expensive.

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Best alternative to AirPods Pro

The Apple AirPods Pro 3 is an excellent workout companion; there is no two ways about it. These earbuds are highly resistant to sweat and dust, they sound and fit exceptionally well, and they even feature live translation and a built-in heart rate sensor. They are by no means perfect, though. For example, they lack in-depth EQ customization and many of their advanced features require an Apple ecosystem. So, what's the best alternative here? If you have an Android phone and love to play with the sound settings, we would recommend the Status Audio Pro X earbuds instead.

True, the Status Audio Pro X does not translate languages or measure your heart rate, and it is just as pricey as the Apple AirPods Pro 3, but the trade-off is still worth it. These earbuds thoroughly impressed us with their sound quality, unconventionally stylish design and the sheer scope of their audio customization features. The bass is deep, the highs are crisp, and if there is still anything that you would want to tweak, you can easily do that in the app. It is an audiophile's dream.

The Status Audio Pro X is also very workout-friendly. These earbuds are highly resistant to dust and sweat, and despite their slightly chunky design, they fit surprisingly well. We found them very comfortable to wear and hardly ever had to adjust them mid-workout. The cherry on top? They are easy to grab with sweaty hands.

The downsides? The Status Audio Pro X does a great job of reducing background noise, but its ANC features are no match for the Apple AirPods Pro 3. Also, these earbuds do not have earhooks or stabilizers, so they may not be suitable for contact sports or movement-heavy activities.

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Best headphones for hikers

Long hiking trips offer a perfect opportunity to ditch your day-to-day headphones and focus on the natural world around you instead. But what if you also want to catch up with your favorite podcast or finish that audiobook that you never seem to have time for? This is where bone conduction headphones can come in handy.

Unlike earbuds that cut you off from the outside world, these open-ear headsets keep you fully aware of your surroundings. This way, you will not miss the precious sounds of wildlife or trees rustling in the breeze, and you will keep yourself alert to any potential dangers on the track (oncoming traffic or wild animals, for example.) Bone conduction headphones do not cause nearly as much “listening fatigue” as earbuds, either, mostly because they work by passing sound through the bones in your jaw and skull, not through the air and directly into your eardrum. Plus, their wraparound design does not exert any pressure on the ear canal. You can wear bone conduction headphones for hours on end and not feel any discomfort.

The reason we prefer bone conduction headphones to other open-ear models mentioned in this guide is that they tend to be more reliable on the tougher stretches of the hike. Unlike the small earbuds, they are too big and secure-fitting to be blown off by strong coastal winds, get lost in a muddy creek or fall off during vertical rock climbing. You can easily forget you are even wearing them and focus entirely on the world around you.

While there are plenty of good bone conduction headphones out there, there is one model that truly steps up the game for us. We are talking, of course, about the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2. We must have taken them on at least 10 hiking trips, long and short, and they have always enhanced our hiking experience rather than gotten in the way of it (like many other headphones did in the past.) They are durable, light and comfortable to wear, and above all, they have arguably the best sound quality of all the bone conduction models that we have tried so far.

The only real downside to the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 is the price — $179 is pretty steep for bone conduction headphones, even if they are as good as these.

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Best earbuds for runners

When it comes to running outdoors, we have two personal favorites: the aforementioned Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 and the Shokz OpenFit Pro. Both of these open-ear headphones can do a great job keeping you alert and entertained, and both offer great build quality and workout-friendly design. That said, it is the latter that narrowly wins the competition here.

To start with, the Shokz OpenFit Pro earbuds sound way better, especially when it comes to complex or bass-heavy music. The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 headphones boast excellent sound quality for a bone conduction set, but they are simply unable to compete here. Noise reduction is another aspect that tipped the scales for us. Bone conduction headphones are physically unable to muffle any unwanted background sounds. The Shokz OpenFit Pro earbuds, on the other hand, feature an innovative noise reduction mode.

Of course, no open-ear headphones will ever be as effective at blocking out noise as over-ear headphones with ANC. The Shokz OpenFit Pro can, however, filter out a good chunk of it — and we can attest to that. These earbuds came in very handy whenever we wanted to tone down the mechanical whirl of the treadmill at high speeds, or reduce the traffic noise coming from the high-speed road next to our track. That little novelty made a tangible difference to the quality of our running workouts.

Fit is another factor that scored highly in our books. The Shokz OpenFit Pro earbuds do not feature a rubber-coated band that can get in the way of ponytails or head covers. Instead, they rest on the ear and are kept in place with earhooks and optional silicone stabilizers.

Still, the Shokz OpenFit Pro may not be a good fit for everyone. Some people, especially those with smaller ears, may find these earbuds too bulky and loose-fitting for comfortable wear. The price can also be a bit off-putting. The Shokz OpenFit Pro cost $249.95, making them the most expensive earbuds in this guide.

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Best headphones for water sports

All of the earbuds mentioned above are great in their own right, but none of them are suitable for water sports. If you want to listen to your favorite tunes when doing laps in a pool, competing in a triathlon or kayaking in rough water, you need bone conduction headphones with a solid waterproof rating — ideally, IPX7, IPX8, IP67 or IP68. The best models come with a durable frame, adjustable fit and decent internal storage (Bluetooth does not work underwater so all of your music, ebooks and podcasts need to be downloaded onto the headset in advance.)

The H20 Audio Tri 2 Pro are one of those top picks. What sets these headphones apart from other waterproof models is that they are rated beyond IPX8, meaning they can be used up to 12 feet or 3.6 meters underwater for an unlimited amount of time. They also come with unique playlist-building features, swimming plugs and a hard traveling case. Plus, they have 8 GB of internal storage — equivalent to around 2,000 songs or 35 full-length audiobooks.

We found the H20 Audio Tri 2 Pro quite reliable and comfortable to wear. The fit is snug and secure, but not overbearing or difficult to adjust, and we had no issues with muffled sound or the headset sliding off underwater. True, these headphones can produce some slight skull vibrations when listening to bass-heavy music, but that is something we observed with most of the bone conduction models we have tested.

The downsides? Priced at around $199.99, the H20 Audio Tri 2 Pro are pretty expensive for bone conduction headphones. Short battery life is another — up to 6 hours in memory mode, playing the songs stored on the headset, or up to 9 hours in Bluetooth mode. If you are looking for headphones to take on multi-day camping trips or sporting events, they may not be the best option for you.

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Best sports earbuds: Comparison

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Best sports earbuds: Contributing experts and product testers

Best sports earbuds: Frequently Asked Questions

Best sports earbuds: How to choose

Choosing the right sports earbuds is less about impeccable sound and more about finding a reliable workout partner. You want something that complements and enhances your active lifestyle, not actively impedes it. Prioritize comfort, safety and functionality — everything else is secondary. Most importantly, always opt for a wireless headset. Cables get in the way, snag on equipment and can even become a choking hazard, our experts agreed.

A good fit is another critical factor, Jason Smith, a London-based personal trainer and nutritional advisor and the founder of Fit in Midlife, an online fitness coaching service for middle-aged adults, told Live Science by email. "All too often, I see people trying to retrieve earbuds from underneath a treadmill or similar as they fall out through a mixture of sweat and impact. It is essential to find a pair that feels snug but comfortable to wear," Smith said.

Ideally, look for designs that include some form of ear hook, wingtip or silicone stabilizers. These accessories latch into the folds of your ear to create a secure, locked-in feel and prevent frustrating mid-workout adjustments. If there are none, find the right fit by trying on all the ear tip sizes included in the package — most sports earbuds come with at least three.

Next, consider the right level of waterproofness. As we mentioned before, all sports earbuds should be sweatproof at the very least — this means they are rated IPX4 and higher. If you tend to train outdoors in rainy conditions, aim for at least IPX7. The right waterproof rating is not just crucial for the longevity of your earbuds, but also a big factor for personal comfort. "Foam-covered buds or overhead earphones with no sweat protection will end up dripping with sweat and stink long after your workout is complete," Smith said.

Look into the sound settings of your earbuds, too — particularly whether they offer Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and transparency modes. "Many gyms have loud pumping music. If you would rather listen to calming music, a podcast or audiobook, it is best to block out the bass," Smith said. Transparency mode, on the other hand, comes in handy when it comes to your safety and situational awareness, as this feature allows you to hear the world around you without having to remove an earbud or interrupt your workout.

"Ambient awareness is critical for outdoor training. If you’re running or cycling on roads, you must be able to hear traffic. Avoid full noise-cancelling in those situations," Simmons said.

Lastly, the sound quality. While this aspect is highly personal — we are big fans of bass-heavy earbuds, for example, while others may prefer something more balanced — some models tend to perform better than others. If you are unsure whether the sound quality of the earbuds you are considering is good enough, browse through their online reviews to get a sense of the general user feedback.

What about looks? Yes, aesthetics matter, though understandably not to the same extent as the factors we discussed above. "If you feel good wearing your earbuds, that counts. You want to feel confident when you train," Simmons said.

Best sports earbuds: How we tested

We love music and we are passionate about fitness — we basically live in sports earbuds. We must have tried dozens, if not hundreds, of different models throughout our lifetime, and we are always on the lookout for the next best thing. We know which products are worth the hype, and we would not recommend anything we would not happily use ourselves.

That said, we all have different ear shapes, preferred sports, hearing sensitivities and ideas as to what constitutes good quality sound, and we need to account for that if we want to stay balanced and objective. As such, each and every model in this guide was assessed according to the same three criteria:

Design. We look into the fit, waterproofness and durability of the earbuds in question. We also check how customizable they are (for example, how many ear tip sizes they come with) and whether they are sufficiently comfortable to wear and secure-fitting during intense workouts. Plus, we note if they came with any useful accessories, such as a charging case or swimming buds in the case of waterproof bone conduction headphones.

Features: We look into the overall functionality of the tested earbuds. We check their volume range, sound customization settings (the ANC and transparency modes, for example) and, if applicable, app-based features (a sound equalizer, for example).

Performance: We assess their sound quality, Bluetooth connectivity and battery life, and test the effectiveness and clarity of their ANC and transparency modes. This is also where we give our verdict on the overall user experience.

Finally, we weigh these factors against the price of the earbuds in question, and give a final score out of five.

Latest updates

Want to freshen up your workout routine with a snazzy pair of running shoes or brand new sports earbuds? Looking for a quality air purifier to breathe easier this hay fever season? Maybe you need a new electric toothbrush? Rest assured, Amazon has your back. The annual Big Spring Sale event may be over, but you can still find plenty of deals on various health and fitness essentials.

Do not wait too long if you want to snap up the best discounts, though. Amazon is slashing prices on many sought-after items, including some of the best fitness trackers and bone conduction headphones, but the deals seem to last only a day or two.

To help you save the most money, we have rounded up the top 14 products on sale right now. You can trust us here. We review health and fitness tech for a living and are always on the lookout for the best offers, so we can easily tell if the deal is genuine and truly worth your money.

• ⌚Smartwatches: Up to 30% off Apple, Fitbit and Google
• 🎽Workout clothes: Huge deals on leggings, workout tops and sports bras
• 👟Running shoes: Up to 50% off New Balance, Adidas and Under Armour
• 🎧Headphones: Big savings on sports earbuds and Shokz headphones
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• 🏠Health and household: Stock up on essentials
• 🪥Electric toothbrushes: Up to 40% Philips, Waterpik, and more

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Amazfit has just released its priciest smartwatch yet, the T‑Rex Ultra 2. At $549, it is around $150 more expensive than the T-Rex 3 Pro, and more than twice the price of the T-Rex 3. Do not let that discourage you, though. Specs-wise, the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 is eerily similar to the ultra-premium Garmin Fenix 8 — a model that costs nearly a grand. By the looks of it, it could be the best-value outdoor smartwatch of 2026.

The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 is said to be "engineered for environments where gear can’t fail" — and it is hard to dispute that. This rugged smartwatch is made with super-strong titanium and scratch-resistant sapphire glass, and it is certified to stringent U.S. military standards for shock, humidity and temperature resistance. It also features highly accurate dual-band GPS and a host of outdoor-focused features, such as offline maps, a microphone and a built-in flashlight. Plus, the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 lasts up to 30 days on a single charge. No matter how you look at it, this rugged beast has all the potential to land in our guide to the best budget fitness trackers and rival many of the best Garmin watches.

We have not had the chance to put this smartwatch through its paces fully yet — at the time of writing this review, the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 has only been on the market for three weeks. However, our first impressions are largely positive.

Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 smartwatch review

Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2: Design

• Military-grade durability and rugged design
• Large and chunky, but surprisingly lightweight
• Waterproof and suitable for dives up to 45 meters below the surface

The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 does not even pretend to be your typical day-to-day wearable. With its large 1.5-inch (3.8-centimeter) AMOLED screen and thick, ultra-rugged casing, it is exceptionally “masculine” in how it looks and feels on the wrist. This smartwatch clearly trades the sleek, more universally appealing design for superior durability and resilience in harsh weather conditions. Design-wise, it is focused entirely on the needs of serious outdoor explorers. Casual hikers and gym-goers may still find the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 visually appealing, but only if they like such “beastly” designs.

And a beast it is — this smartwatch is exceptionally well-built for its price. Its body is made of grade 5 titanium, a material so strong and lightweight that it is often used in aerospace engineering, medical implants and marine equipment. The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 is certified to U.S. military standard MIL-STD-810H-2019, meaning it can withstand shocks, humidity, high altitudes and temperatures as low as minus 22 degrees Fahrenheit (– 30 degrees Celsius.)

To top it off, it is one of only a handful of smartwatches on the market that can be safely taken scuba diving. The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 is water-resistant up to 328 feet (100 meters and suitable for dives up to 147 feet (45 m) below the surface. You do not have to worry about scratches on the screen, either. The watch face is covered with highly durable sapphire crystal glass, a material that can easily shield against wear-and-tear damage caused by sharp rocks and sand.

Indeed, the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 is a tough cookie. But do these specs reflect its real-life performance? Well, we have only tested this smartwatch for the past two weeks, so we do not have a full picture here just yet. However, our first impressions are very positive. So far, our Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 has survived a smack from the barbell, a few drops from heights and exposure to freezing rainwater.

Given all this ruggedness, you would expect this smartwatch to feel extremely heavy — but that is not the case. The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 does not overload the wrist — no mean feat for such a large wearable.

Speaking of the size, it can indeed be a hindrance. This smartwatch feels unbearably bulky, so much so that we would not recommend it to anyone with a small wrist. The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 can be particularly obtrusive during sleep, so if you like to doze off with your hand close to your face, you may need to consider a different sleep tracker to keep track of your recovery stats.

We were not too keen on its silicone strap, either. It felt thick and rather rigid, and it slightly aggravated our skin after one or two intense workouts. Limited customization is another downside — the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 is only available in one size and color, and the only way to add a personal touch is by swapping its strap. However, this is not something that we would fret about in a device that prioritizes functionality over looks.

Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2: Features

• Advanced navigation and fitness tracking tools
• No solar charging
• Relatively basic app ecosystem

The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 is geared primarily towards outdoor fitness and that is fully reflected in its choice of features. This smartwatch comes with all the essentials necessary out in the wild, from detailed offline maps and advanced navigation tools to a built-in two-color flashlight and SOS signal mode. There is also a generous sprinkle of some more advanced features —- offline weather alerts, real-time rerouting and ski route maps, for example. The navigation specs of this smartwatch are decent, too. The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 locates you based on the highly accurate dual-band GPS and then combines this data with the information collected by its built-in compass, altimeter and barometer.

Unsurprisingly, this smartwatch is packed with outdoor-focused sports modes. These include the basics like cycling and strength training, as well as a good range of the more advanced ones, such as freediving, paragliding and parkour. The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 features 180 sports modes in total, most of which are relatively well-tracked and sufficiently detailed in how they collect data. For example, running modes on this smartwatch come with advanced metrics such as vertical amplitude (how high your body moves up and down with each stride) and ground contact time (the duration your foot spends on the ground during each running stride.)

That said, Amazfit is still a few steps behind Garmin and Apple when it comes to the app ecosystem and smartwatch capabilities. While the T-Rex Ultra 2 covers most of the basics here — it can sync with your calendar, pay for your groceries and send a message to your phone, for example — it does lack the premium smart frills for which the two aforementioned brands are so well known.

Another downside is the lack of solar charging. Since the T-Rex Ultra 2 is the priciest outdoor-focused smartwatch in the Amazfit line-up, we somewhat expected it to go all the way in and have that handy feature on hand. It is not a deal-breaker, though. The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 makes up for this inconvenience with its relatively long battery life.

All in all, this smartwatch offers a good selection of features for the price. The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 may not have the ultra-fancy mapping features typical of Suunto wearables or the advanced training insights known from the Garmin watches, but it does give you plenty of bang for your buck.

Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2: Performance

• Long battery life
• Largely accurate GPS and heart rate tracking
• Good app connectivity

One of the biggest selling points of the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 is its long battery life. According to the manufacturer, this smartwatch lasts up to 30 days when "in typical use" and up to 15 days when "in heavy use". Understandably, the lifespan drops when the GPS is switched on — anywhere from 30 hours in trail running mode up to around 90 hours with power-saving enabled.

While we have not tested the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 long enough to confirm or deny these claims, they do sound about right. After a week of heavy-ish use (all-day wear and multiple workouts tracked throughout the week), the battery in our smartwatch stood at 60%. One week later, it dropped to about 38%. Overall, no complaints.

The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 also seems to perform well when it comes to navigation and health tracking. The mapping and GPS tools were relatively accurate and sufficiently responsive, both when tested in a densely populated residential area and when put through their paces on a park running trail nearby. Of course, this may not have much bearing on how the GPS performs in the actual remote wilderness, but it does indicate a good degree of reliability in this regard.

The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 features a new-generation PPG sensor, and it shows. Heart rate tracking appeared relatively on point, and notably more accurate than in other Amazfit trackers we tested before. For example, the real-time workout readings appeared to be slightly less volatile and more resistant to sudden wrist movements.

This improved heart rate accuracy also had a knock-on effect on our stress, sleep and training load assessments. The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 seemed to have a very good grasp of our exertion levels and post-exercise recovery, and it did tend to offer us genuinely helpful training advice. While it is not as detailed and in-depth in that regard as the Garmin or Polar watches, for example, it is still useful enough for the more serious athletes.

Last, but not least, the app connectivity. The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 generally performs well in that regard — it does not disconnect, struggle with data transfer or mess with the updates. That said, we did notice some minor lags when switching between power-intensive tasks. We did not find them too disruptive, though.

Should you buy the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2?

The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 will not be a good fit for everyone, but then it is not meant to be. This beast of a smartwatch is made with serious outdoor explorers in mind, and that is where it delivers the most value. It is built like a tank, it helps keep you safe in the great outdoors, and it offers a good selection of fitness tracking features — all for a very reasonable price. For everyday training and general outdoor use, however, the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 will likely be a case of feature overkill.

✅ Buy it if: You want a reliable GPS smartwatch for epic outdoor adventures, but do not want to pay through the roof for the high-end models like the Garmin Fenix 8.

❌ Do not buy it if: You are looking for a general fitness tracker or smartwatch for everyday use, or have a very small wrist. The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 is a huge piece of machinery jam-packed with advanced tech, and you may find it too uncomfortable to wear.

Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2: Related products

Looking for something as durable and advanced as the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2? The Garmin Fenix 8 immediately springs to mind here. This premium smartwatch is tough, reliable and comes with everything you may ever need or want when perusing the great outdoors. However, it has one major downside — it costs roughly $999, making it one of the most expensive models on the market.

For those on a tight budget, we would recommend the Amazfit T-Rex 3. This smartwatch may be slightly less durable, waterproof and outdoor-focused than the T-Rex Ultra 2, but its day-to-day performance is no less impressive. Not to mention, it costs less than $300 and is frequently on sale.

If style is important to you, consider the Suunto Vertical 2. This smartwatch is a close match for the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 specs-wise, but it is sleeker and more suitable for all-day wear. Plus, both of these models cost roughly the same.

Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2: How we tested

We spent nearly two weeks trying and testing the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2, looking into its design, features, day-to-day performance and ease of use. We wore this smartwatch during the day, while sleeping, in the gym and when doing outdoor activities, such as running and hiking. Then, we compared the sleep, steps and heart rate measurements taken by the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 with the data we obtained using Whoop MG and Oura Ring Gen 4.

The Garmin Venu 4 is a fairly high-end fitness and running watch that does not have the same baggage as a Fenix or Forerunner. It looks less obviously like an athlete’s wearable, which will be appealing to some.

In this generation, though, you miss out on little substance compared to those marathon-botherer watches. As a result, the Garmin Venu 4 is potentially a significantly better run training partner than the Venu 3 ever was.

This added functionality comes at a price. The Garmin Venu 4 costs a chunk more than the previous generation, at $549/£469 or $599/£519 with a leather strap. This means it is priced roughly the same as the Forerunner 570 (or £10 more in the U.K.).

The Venu 4 is arguably a better-value watch, thanks to its bonus features like a flashlight and ECG readings, but few would argue the Forerunner 570 was a hot bargain in the first place. The key: make sure you want a more stripped-back style and touch-led operation, as the latter in particular can become quite annoying at times.

Garmin Venu 4 smartwatch review

Garmin Venu 4: Design

• Sleek, minimalistic design
• Light and comfortable to wear
• More touchscreen-led than most other Garmin watches

Venu is Garmin’s most smartwatch-like series. That means we get lower-profile buttons, and fewer of them, in the Garmin Venu 4 compared to a watch from, for example, the Forerunner series.

The Venu 4 comes in two sizes, 1.6 and 1.8 inches (41mm and 45mm) in diameter, and what you see here is the chunkier version with the “citron” strap. In either case, though, the Garmin Venu 4’s pricing and construction are the same.

We get a stainless steel bezel, Corning Gorilla Glass 3 screen projection and moderate 5ATM water resistance. It could have used Corning Victus glass or Sapphire, both of which are more scratch-resistant. Using titanium instead of steel might shave off even more weight. But Garmin only uses these materials in its most expensive watches.

Garmin also makes smart use of plastic in the casing, to avoid having to make cutouts for the LED flash and speaker. A Venu 4 does use more metal than the Venu 3, though.

Garmin is known more for making good watches rather than bargain watches. This stuff is the norm for the brand.

The Garmin Venu 4 watch feels light and comfortable, and there’s a slight brushed finish to the stainless steel outer that looks good. This watch weighs 1.4 oz (39 g) without its strap, or 1.9 oz (54 g) with. Alternatively, you could reduce that a little by buying a lighter nylon fabric one.

This is a more touchscreen-led watch than most other Garmins. The Venu 4’s upper button acts as “select”, the lower one is a “back” button, so you do need to start swiping to get around the interface, and using touch can feel a bit fiddly when tracking more intensive exercise sessions.

On a few occasions, we’d even go as far as to describe it as infuriating. The longest tracked sessions during my time with the Venu 4 was a six-hour hike across the U.K.’s North Downs, and the wet conditions meant the sleeve of my waterproof kept setting off the touchscreen, and making a podcast play on my phone.

This happened far more than a half dozen times before I fiddled with the screen lock settings to improve (although not entirely fix) the situation. We also find having to swipe to unlock the Venu 4 screen during runs quite annoying, compared to the button-led feel of the Forerunner series watches. Be prepared. Touch is not the default in “Garmin UI” land.

Garmin Venu 4: Features

• Packed with smart features
• No offline maps
• High-end fitness tracking

The Venu 4’s identity as Garmin’s premier smartwatch-style wearable is not just about design and interface. It’s also apparent in the feature set.

This watch has a speaker, a microphone and three key smart features that use them. Voice Command is perhaps the most interesting, a specialized Garmin voice assistant of sorts that you can ask to set timers, start activities, skip songs and other basic watch features. It’s not a life-changing feature and sometimes boots you out without your seemingly doing anything. But you can set a long-press of one of the buttons to access Voice Command if you like.

Voice Assistant, meanwhile, lets you use the Venu 4 as a portal to your phone’s voice assistant. There’s also a Voice Note recorder, which can have a GPS location tagged to it if you choose. However, there’s no quick access to record while actually tracking your location. As this feels like it could be a good fit for hiking, Voice Notes ends up feeling a little half-baked as of early 2026.

Smart features like these are not Garmin’s traditional wheelhouse. Whether you value them over what you get with the similarly-priced Forerunner 965 is a key question for Venu 4 buyers.

The biggie the Garmin Venu 4 lacks is maps. While the watch has 8 GB of storage, this is just for music and other audio —which can be streamed to wireless headphones or played (quietly) through the speaker.

During testing we plotted a half marathon route and sent it to the watch. While the Garmin Venu 4 guided us along the route just fine, all you see is a line and an indication of the next turn. It does not show roads or other features.

This does not mean the Garmin Venu 4 is not an enthusiast-level fitness tracker, though. Spend a moment customizing the interface and you can get a daily view on your Training Readiness and Running Performance, including VO2 Max. You get Running Dynamics and Performance Condition.

In fact, almost everything fitness-wise in Garmin’s more hardcore Forerunner watches is here, including Training Load. This is a much more nerdy exercise pal than you might guess under the surface, matching the Forerunner 570 in most respects.

The Garmin Venu 4 is also one of the few Garmin watches with ECG readings. This is where the electrical signals of your heart are analyzed rather than the watch simply “looking at” your wrist, which is how the standard heart rate reader hardware works.

There’s even a little adventuring thread in the Venu 4. It has a flashlight built into the top, with three white intensity levels and a red LED, too, for when you want minimal light output. Such a light only used to be found in the biggest and chunkiest of Garmin watches. A long press of the lower button toggles the torch too, making it extremely convenient.

Garmin Venu 4: Performance

• Very good location tracking
• Top-level stats tracking
• Decent battery life

Garmin says the Venu 4 can last up to 12 days of use from a charge, or 10 days for the 41 mm version. After 69 hours of use (just under three days), the watch had lost 43% of charge. This suggests it will last for a little under a week.

It’s a fair bit lower than the claim, but that did include upwards of 6 hours of GPS-tracked exercise. This is significantly more battery-sapping than normal use, as the screen stays lit the entire time during workouts by default.

Quoted battery life is slightly shorter than in the previous generation, down from 14 days, which could be down to increased screen brightness. It is much better stamina than you’d get from a Wear OS smartwatch, though.

As with all OLED Garmin watches, the Always-on display mode has a major hit on battery life. This shows the time when the Venu 4 is not actively in use, to make it a more useful device for telling the time. Like an actual watch.

In 28 hours, just over a day, it lost 32% charge. Again, this was with a couple of hours of more battery-sapping exercise tracking, but it suggests battery life of up to four days. As a result we mostly used the Venu 4 in its standard mode, with gesture and touch screen-waking.

Elsewhere, the Garmin Venu 4 gets a major generational upgrade in its GPS. It has dual-frequency location tracking, which can significantly improve tracking reliability in areas where signal tends to be compromised, like in dense forests or high-rise-packed cities. If you tend to run around typical suburban streets and open parks, you’re unlikely to notice much of a difference. But the GPS tracking all-round is excellent.

The Garmin Venu 4’s heart rate reader hardware is the same as the Venu 3’s. It’s also the same stuff seen in every top Garmin of the moment, so that’s no issue. We have reviewed many Garmins with it, and its performance is entirely familiar. The Venu 4’s heart rate accuracy during runs, and throughout the day, is great. A good HR chest strap will still do much better for non-cardio-based sessions where spikes are short, sharp and frequent. But Garmin’s performance remains much better than the majority of wrist-based heart rate reading wearables.

How about sleep tracking? As with any watch like this, you’ll find it sometimes — or often — misses wakeful moments, but impressions of tracked sleep days have largely aligned with our expectations. And as usual, if you have a few glasses of wine before bed, Garmin will always pick up on it .

Garmin is more interested in HRV (heart rate variability) than most. It’s one of the better stats for determining if your body is under stress, be that actual stress, illness or being run down. And while the actual overnight HRV score the Venu 4 spits out may seem opaque initially, it also feeds into sleep scores.

We’ve found this one of the best indicators of short-term health. When you’re getting run down or ill, the Venu 4 will pretty much always pick up on that in your HRV scores.

Should you buy the Garmin Venu 4?

The Garmin Venu 4 appears to be business as usual. It’s a fitness watch with a sleeker smartwatch style. But there are significant changes this time.

Garmin’s Venu 4 gets a big stats injection compared to the Venu 3. Training Load, Training Readiness and Running Dynamics make this a surprisingly hardcore coach, especially when matched with one of Garmin’s free training plans.

It’s surprisingly close to the Forerunner 570 in ability, and brings extras like ECG too. Just make sure you’re game for touchscreen-led use, as there are minimal buttons here and it can feel relatively fiddly after, and during, a workout.

✅Buy it if: You want a less nerdy-looking fitness and running watch that still has all the stats seen in high-end watches made for ultramarathon bores.

❌Do not buy it if: You don’t care about the smart features and slicker style, as a Forerunner generally feels more practical in day-to-day use.

Garmin Venu 4: Related products

If your main goal is a watch with smartwatch style that lasts far longer than an Apple Watch you have plenty of cheaper options, including the OnePlus Watch Lite and Motorola Moto Watch Fit. These are more affordable, although they provide generally rather less accurate stats and less depth.

Within the Garmin family, there are a couple of key alternatives. For similar money you can pick up the Forerunner 570, which has more buttons but lacks the ECG and flashlight while not adding any substantial stats. Or if you’re willing to pick an older model, the Forerunner 965 was a 2023 favourite, and has downloadable maps. But its screen is significantly dimmer, and it has an older version of Garmin’s interface.

Garmin Venu 4: How we tested

The Garmin Venu 4 was used as our primary wearable for 7 weeks ahead of this write-up. This included a little under 310 miles (500 km) of run tracking, including a full marathon distance session and a six-hour hike. But most workouts were far more ordinary: gym trips lasting around an hour and runs of a similar length.

We wore the watch overnight for most of the testing period, too, which is a key part of getting the most from Garmin’s training readiness and Body Battery stats.

March is finally here, and this means one thing for the exercise buffs like ourselves — it's time to take full advantage of this season's spring sales and save big on a fitness tracker upgrade. True, the main shopping events of the season may still be weeks away, but the seasonal discounts have already started trickling in. In fact, some of these early deals are true show-stoppers. Take the Garmin Forerunner 965, for example.

The Garmin Forerunner 965, one of the best running smartwatches ever made, is now a huge 33% off and at its lowest-ever price at Amazon. The same deal is also available at Walmart.

Andrew Williams, our trusted fitness tech reviewer, is a big fan of this watch — and it's not that easy to impress someone who tests fitness trackers for a living. He gave it a glowing 4.5-star rating in his full Garmin Forerunner 965 review, and included it in our guides to the best Garmin watches and best running watches. Trust us when we say it's a real gem even at full price.

The Garmin Forerunner 965 is an athlete's dream, whether it comes to design, functionality or performance. This watch has everything a runner or triathlete may ever need or want, from a lightweight design and excellent tracking accuracy to stacks of offline maps and exceptionally reliable multi-band GPS. Plus, it lasts up to a whopping 23 days on a single charge — enough to withstand the demands of multi-day running competitions.

Moreover, it simply looks good. With its bright AMOLED display and sleek, unobtrusive build, the Garmin Forerunner 965 is more akin to an everyday smartwatch than a serious workout tracking tool. You can wear it anywhere and anytime you like, without constantly feeling its presence on your wrist, clashing with your formal clothes, or catching it on exercise equipment.

The best part? The Garmin Forerunner 965 is now the cheapest it has ever been. This deal is not to be missed!

Key features: 1.4-inch AMOLED screen, 5ATM water resistance, up to 23 days of battery life, titanium bezel, GPS, offline maps

Product launched: March 2023

Price history: Before today's deal, the lowest price on the Garmin Forerunner 965 was $449.99, and for the better part of this year, the price sat at $589.99. Today's offers from Walmart and Amazon bring the price down to $399.99, which is the lowest price we have ever seen.

Price comparison: Amazon: $399.99 | Walmart: $399.99 | Best Buy: $499.99 | Garmin: $499.99

Reviews consensus: Universally rated as one of the best running watches on the market, the Garmin Forerunner 965 won reviewers across the board with its top-notch accuracy, advanced workout tracking features and sleek, easy-on-the-wrist design. Many testers also praised it for its vibrant display and long battery life. Negative remarks were few and far between, and often revolved around the relatively high price of the Garmin Forerunner 965. A few reviewers also complained about the lack of a built-in flashlight.

TechRadar: ★★★★½ | Tom's Guide: ★★★★½ | Live Science: ★★★★½ | Coach: ★★★★★ | T3: ★★★★★

Featured in guides: Best Garmin watches, Best running watches.

✅ Buy it if: You are a serious runner looking for a highly accurate and functional workout tracking tool.

❌ Don't buy it if: You are a running beginner, or looking for something more budget-friendly (such as the Amazfit Active 2, now 20% off at Amazon.)

Check out our other guides to the best budget fitness trackers, smart rings, sleep trackers and much more.

Smart scales are taking the world by storm, and understandably so. These clever digital devices not only measure your weight and BMI, but also provide you with complex insights into your body composition. For example, they can tell how your body fat percentage, muscle mass and body water content change over time, giving you a detailed picture of your overall fitness progress. The best part? They do not have to cost the earth. In fact, we have just found a great deal on one of the most accurate smart scales we have tested.

The ultra-advanced Renpho MorphoScan Nova smart scale is now 19% off and at its lowest-ever price at Amazon.

Do not dwell on this deal too long, though, as it ends tonight. Trust us, it is worth it. We gave this smart scale a solid 4-star rating in our full Renpho MorphoScan Nova review and included it in our guide to the best smart scales. True, it may not necessarily be the cheapest model out there, but its value for money is immense if you are serious about hitting your fitness goals. Let us explain.

Unlike most smart scales that use a stand-on platform only, the Renpho MorphoScan Nova is a foot-to-hand model — it uses both a stand-on platform and a handle. This means that when it measures your body composition, it collects the data from both your upper and lower bodies, rather than your lower body alone. As a result, the Renpho MorhoScan Nova can provide more accurate readings than the vast majority of stand-on smart scales available on the market.

That's not all — the Renpho MorphoScan Nova is not only more accurate, but also more detailed and functional. That's because it can provide you with a segmental body analysis. In simpler terms, it can show you the differences in your body fat percentage and muscle mass between your trunk, legs and arms. To top it off, this smart scale offers printable reports that you can then share with your doctor or personal trainer.

All in all, the Renpho MorphoScan Nova is a highly advanced tool in your fitness arsenal and one that can truly make a difference to your fitness routine. The best part? It is now the cheapest it has ever been.

Key features: 4.3-inch TFT display, unlimited user profiles, max user weight 397 lbs (180 kg), app-connected, USB rechargeable

Product launched: October 2025

Price history: Before today's deal, the lowest price on the Renpho MorphoScan Nova was $199.99, and for the better part of this year, the price sat at $233.99. Today's offer from Amazon brings the price down to $189.98, which is the lowest price we have ever seen.

Price comparison: Amazon: $189.98 | Renpho: $199.99 | Target: $199.99

Reviews consensus: There is plenty to like about the Renpho MorphoScan Nova: it is portable, height-inclusive and easy to use, but most importantly, it delivers a highly accurate and exceptionally detailed body composition analysis without relying on overly complex terminology or pricey app subscriptions. On the other hand, this smart scale does not have good app connectivity or multiple weighing modes, and it is pretty expensive, too.

Live Science: ★★★★

Featured in guides: Best smart scales

✅ Buy it if: You want ultra-detailed insights into your body composition.

❌ Don't buy it if: You are looking for something more basic and budget-friendly (such as the Renpho Elis Evo, now 22% off at Amazon.)

Check out our other guides to the best fitness trackers, running shoes, exercise bikes, rowing machines and much more.

Yoga is now a popular form of exercise in the West, and one that doesn't need much equipment to get started. However, knowing exactly what you need to go to your first yoga class, or even to practice at home, can still feel overwhelming at the start — especially when there are so many yoga props you could buy. This is why we've put together our recommendations on what the must-haves are for a yoga beginner, and which items you can consider buying later.

One of the most obvious things you will need is one of the best yoga mats, but it can also help to have some yoga blocks to make the postures more accessible to you. As a beginner, you want to keep your practice simple, so using yoga blocks can be a real benefit.

Of course, there are many other useful yoga props available, but we recommend only buying these once you've established a regular practice. Here are the must-haves we suggest for beginners to yoga.

• Related: Does yoga count as exercise?
• Related: 8 benefits of yoga
• Related: Pilates vs yoga: How do the two practices affect the body?

What to buy as a yoga beginner: Yoga mats

While, technically, you could practice yoga on any floor, having one of the best yoga mats makes it much easier to hold postures like downward dog, as they provide extra grip. We don't know if you've ever tried doing downward dog on carpet, but it's definitely more of a workout!

One of the main things you'll need in a yoga mat, as a beginner or otherwise, is good grip. Alignment lines can also be helpful as you learn the postures and where to place your hands and feet. The alignment lines can help you find the right distance between hands and feet, but they are only there as a guide — it's important to listen to what feels best in your body.

Other than grip, you will also want to consider how much padding a yoga mat offers you. Anything between 4 and 6 millimeters should offer sufficient padding, but when you start yoga, you'll find your joints are more sensitive before they get used to the pressure placed on them in certain postures. Therefore, consider a thicker yoga mat or having a blanket nearby for postures where your joints are not as happy.

Here are our recommendations for the best yoga mats you can buy as a beginner.

What to buy as a yoga beginner: Yoga blocks

For beginners to yoga, props are essential — your body will not be accustomed to the postures, and things will feel tight. Having props available will make your introduction to the practice easier. There are many forms of yoga props available for purchase, but we recommend starting with yoga blocks. These are versatile as you're able to use them for both seated and standing postures.

There are different types of yoga blocks available, so it's important to know the distinctions between them. While most yoga blocks are known as such, you can also get something called "yoga bricks." These are thicker than yoga blocks, which tend to be thinner and wider. Yoga bricks are great for standing postures to bring the floor closer to you, while yoga blocks are better suited for seated postures, especially if you have a pelvic tilt when sitting on the floor, which means it's hard for you to sit with a straight spine. Depending on your budget, you may want to get one of each. However, you can use either for both standing and seated postures if you're restricted by finances.

Another consideration is the material the yoga blocks are made out of. You can get yoga blocks and bricks made out of cork or EVA foam — both offer good support, so it's really down to personal preference and the impact on the environment, with cork being the more eco-friendly option.

Here are our top recommendations for yoga blocks.

• Related: Can yoga fix your posture?
• Related: Is yoga strength training?

What to buy as a yoga beginner: Fitness trackers

Some of the best fitness trackers can be used to track your yoga practice. As a beginner, you may be more interested than an experienced yogi in understanding how yoga is impacting your fitness. With a fitness tracker, you can track how many sessions a week you are doing, how long you are practicing for in each session, your heart rate throughout yoga classes and calories burned. This can give you an idea of how yoga is helping your fitness journey and the impact it might be having on your overall health.

While some fitness trackers can be really expensive, you can also track your yoga classes with one of the best budget fitness trackers. In fact, we can recommend the Motorola Moto Watch Fit as the best fitness tracker for yoga.

If you're looking for a fitness tracker for other exercise and not just yoga, you may want to invest in one of the best Garmin watches, where you will get a lot for your money.

Here are our favorite fitness trackers for tracking your yoga practice.

• Related: Can yoga help you lose weight?
• Related: Does yoga build muscle?

What not to buy as a yoga beginner (right away)

It may feel like you need a lot of equipment to be able to practice yoga, but in reality you can get started on very little. We've outlined the must-haves you need to get started as a beginner, but as you develop a more regular practice, you may feel you need more props and items, which is a natural progression. This is where our list of non-essentials come in — you can buy them now or wait until you're more familiar with the practice.

Once you've been practicing for a while, you may want to consider specific yoga workout clothes, a yoga chair, a yoga bolster or even a yoga belt. While these are great to have, we would argue they are not essential for a beginner and can be bought over time. You can, of course, get them at the start of your yoga journey, but they are not necessary.

To start with, you can practice yoga in any comfortable workout gear, but in time, you may prefer to get some yoga pants. These are comfortable to wear and can help prevent your feet from slipping down your leg in balance postures like tree pose.

When it comes to other yoga props such as a yoga chair, yoga bolster and yoga belt, these can help you to explore the postures with added support and ease. While they are not must-haves for beginners (many postures can be adopted without the need for props), they can be useful once you've built up a regular practice to help you target areas in your body that feel resistant to the postures without the extra support.

For example, a yoga chair can help make some backbends or seated postures more accessible. A yoga bolster can help to relieve upper back discomfort in some more reclined backbends, or can be used to support you in postures like child pose. And a yoga belt can help make shoulder or hamstring stretches more accessible.

What to buy as a yoga beginner: The bottom line

Yoga is one exercise where you don't need a huge amount of equipment to get started, but as your practice develops, you may find you want to invest in more yoga props to help support your body and deepen your practice. We recommend starting with the basics and expanding your collection over time.

The last couple of years have seen a key trend emerge among fitness and running watches. Many more of them now use bright, colorful OLED screens, and the Coros Pace 4 marks the most affordable of Coros’s watches to get onboard.

Flashier display aside, the Pace 4 keeps all the key draws of the Coros Pace 3. It’s not hugely expensive, the battery lasts a good long while, it’s very comfortable and feature-wise it’s highly competitive with a comparable Garmin watch, like the Forerunner 165.

What’s missing or could be improved? The Coros Pace 4 does not have the glossiest-looking interface, and while sound its heart rate reliability isn’t quite top-tier, particularly when you stray away from the basics of running and hiking.

Coros Pace 4 smartwatch review

Coros Pace 4: Design and screen

• Light and relatively slender
• Has an OLED screen, a first for this series
• 5ATM water resistance can’t handle diving

The Coros Pace 4 represents a bunch of factors you may not think of immediately when shopping for a watch, but probably should. These are low weight, a slim form factor and — not unrelated — simple comfort.

This watch is slimmer than most runner’s watches and weighs just 40g. What it doesn’t have is a flashy design.

The Coros Pace 4’s body is plastic, as are the side buttons and the crown. There’s a sense of design deliberation in the subtle two-tone finish, but this is not a luxury watch. It’s a practical one. And the crown, the control dial, does look a bit toy-like, decked out in grey plastic.

Its screen uses an unspecified kind of mineral glass rather than a Corning type or Sapphire. But now weeks into testing, the casing still looks great and I am yet to scratch the screen. There’s no raised lip above the screen, though, which can help further avoid scrapes if you plan on giving your watch a load of punishment.

And like just about every good watch in this class, the Coros Pace 4 has 5ATM water resistance. It’s good enough for pool swimming but is “not for diving” as Coros highlights on its own spec sheet.

While the Pace 4’s crown looks a little cheap, it is also one part that makes the watch stand out. It turns smoothly, and is used to glide down menus. Coros has also given the watch surprisingly good haptics, with scrolling accompanied by little clicks.

The Coros Pace 4’s lead feature is its screen, though. It has an OLED display, where the Pace 3 and older models had boring-looking but practical MIP ones. We’re seeing the same trend here as Garmin has adopted. Now that AMOLED screens are pretty energy efficient, companies like Coros can give us a brighter, sharper, more colorful appearance without killing battery life.

It’s a good example of this kind of screen, too. It’s a 1.2-inch, 390 x 390 screen with peak brightness of an impressive 1,500 nits. Coros, ever a battery life fiend, is quite careful with how hard it pushes brightness so that power doesn’t leap off the display in the way that a Garmin Forerunner 570’s, for example, does. But the brightness is there for those super-bright environments where it’s really needed.

The Coros Pace 4 has an ambient light sensor, so can automatically adjust brightness to suit ambient conditions.

Coros Pace 4: Features

• Lets you take voice votes while out on a hike
• Has quite advanced fitness-focused stats
• No maps, only breadcrumb trail routes supported

You might assume a value-led watch like the Pace 4 is intended to do the basics only, but there’s a lot more here. Yes, it has GPS, sleep tracking, step counting and lots of exercise modes, and on top there’s both more hardcore and more trendy stuff.

The trendy part? Voice recordings. We’re in an era of microphones being jammed into fitness watches, and Coros’s concept is that you’ll use the Pace 4’s not to talk to Siri but to make voice recordings. These aren’t to send to friends over WhatsApp, but to document your outdoor adventures.

And Coros Pace 4 is the unusual watch that has a microphone but no speaker. We did find Coros’s application of Voice Notes a bit clunky, though. It requires a long press of a button, a flick of the crown then three additional button presses. We can imagine it going ignored by many, if not most, owners. Nice idea, though.

It does support music too, although in a way that may not be all that useful to some of you. The Pace 4 will stream music to wireless headphones — or a speaker — but has no streaming service support, so you need to supply your own digital audio files.

There are plenty of miscellaneous extras too, like a metronome, phone camera shutter control, timer and stopwatch. But that’s all fluff, kept sensibly off to the side.

At the Coros Pace 4’s center is a rock-solid roster of health and fitness modes and stats. When you scroll down from the watch screen using the crown, you’ll find things like your daily activity numbers, Running Fitness score (Coros’s own take on VO2 Max, although actual VO2 Max is shown in the app too), training load, training status and recovery, among many other bits of info.

Those last stats, which relate to the balance of your workout routine versus your body condition, are part of what separates a casual fitness tracker from an athlete’s watch. Getting them at this price? A big bonus. You can of course customize this feed, if you’d like a lighter array of stats.

One part you can’t customize much, though, is the Coros Pace 4’s interface. While the structure is very similar to Garmin’s, Garmin’s latest watches have more gloss and stylistic coherence than the Pace 4.

In the Coros versus Garmin debate, software plays a key role. For example, while the Pace 4’s Coros app gives you free access to loads of weeks-long plans to cover everything from a 5K to a marathon, you don’t get more casual daily suggestions that can adapt to your current condition. You do get those with a Garmin Forerunner 165 or 265.

It’s also worth noting what you get when you take a step up in the Coros line. You can send route files to the Pace 4, in order to be guided through walks, runs, hikes and so on without digging out a paper map and compass. The Pace 4 does not have on-watch maps, though, which are offered in the Coros Pace Pro or Apex 4. Instead you’ll see what’s called a breadcrumb trail, which is just a line showing where the route heads. It’s nearly as good for many, but is worth thinking about.

On the health side, the Pace 4 records all-day heart rate, tracks your sleep admirably, estimates your stress level throughout the day and has 39 activity tracking modes. You choose which of these end up on the watch menu in the phone app.

There are a few minor omissions. The Coros Pace 4 does not have ECG, whose main job is to look for signs of arrhythmia. And while the watch has a barometric altimeter, it’s not used to work out how many sets of stairs (or the equivalent thereof) you climb each day.

Coros Pace 4: Performance

• Very good GPS performance
• Reasonable HR accuracy
• Long battery life, if not using the always-on mode

The Coros Pace 4 puts in an impressive performance considering its price, and that’s at least in part down to fairly aggressive adoption of newer tech. This is one of the more affordable watches to use dual-frequency GPS, which can improve signal reliability in more challenging environments. We’re talking about spaces beyond low-rise residential sprawl, such as when running among skyscrapers or under a dense forest canopy.

Distance stats are extremely similar to those of a Garmin Forerunner 970 we used for comparison purposes. Even over a 15.5 mile (25 kilometer) distance, the disparity was a mere 0.2%. The discrepancy was not always quite that low, percentage-wise, but was never significant.

The Coros Pace 4’s mapped routes, which show up in the Coros phone app after each outdoor workout, are very sound too.

Heart rate accuracy is solid for the most part too, especially for running, if a rung below the best performers from Garmin and Apple. On long runs the Pace 4 will sometimes record a couple of too-high peaks, skewing the max heart rate readings in your logs.

However, these are typically not sustained and the Pace 4 largely avoids the old issue of fitness watches’ heart rate readings looking all-but fabricated for the first few minutes of a workout. As usual for a watch, gym workout results are not ideal, with some missed exertion peaks. But the Pace 3 isn’t miles behind a Garmin Forerunner in this respect.

And like other Coros watches, the Pace 4’s battery life is great. In our tests, it lasted just under two weeks with a fairly heavy amount of run tracking per week, with a few gym sessions thrown in the mix too. That’s lower than the 19-day battery claim, but close enough for that to be achievable with lighter use.

An hour of tracked running, using the most power-sapping dual-frequency GPS mode, takes 6% off the charge level.

Coros doesn’t go for the usual charging cable or wireless base, instead supplying a little plastic puck that can be plugged into any USB-C power source. And it takes up very little pocket space, although it is quite easy to misplace.

Should you buy the Coros Pace 4?

The Coros Pace 4 will be an ideal watch for many folks looking for their first serious runner’s watch. It’s not super-expensive, is not excessively large and has enough features to take you from a couch-to-5K program to a fast marathon. And long battery life means it’s easy to get along with, too.

✅ Buy it if: You want a well-priced running and general exercise-tracking watch with an OLED screen that also prioritizes the practical stuff over flashy extras.

❌ Don’t buy it if: You want a watch with a metal bezel, or one that can stream music from streaming services.

If the Coros Pace 4 is not for you

Over at Garmin, the Forerunner 165 is the Coros Pace 4’s closest price rival. Coros has the cost advantage, as it has dual-band GPS and you don’t have to pay a chunk more for music support. And the screen is brighter too. On the other hand, Garmin’s interface looks better and its training features are more expansive. For us the Forerunner has the higher “tilt” preference factor, but the Pace 4 has undeniable advantages.

From Polar, there’s the Pacer. It has older screen tech and is an all-round less desirable watch these days – but you can find some great deals online.

Suunto gets closer to the mark with the Run, a pretty similar watch with a metal bezel and Gorilla Glass screen. However, wedid have slightly more heart rate issues when using it, compared to the Coros.

Coros Pace 4: How we tested

We wore the Coros Pace 4 for roughly six weeks over a two-month period, including extended stretches of near-24/7 wear to give the most realistic impression of its battery life in real-world conditions. We used it to record several hundred kilometres of run training, including no fewer than three half marathons, numerous gym sessions and a couple of intense spin classes. We tested the watch in both its always-on and standard screen modes, but eventually settled on using the default mode to max-out one of the watch's key strengths.

Smart scales can be invaluable for stepping up your fitness routine. These clever devices not only measure your body weight and BMI (Body Mass Index) in the way that regular digital bathroom scales do, but they can also provide various body composition metrics, such as muscle mass, bone mass and body fat percentage. Some of the more premium models can also calculate your BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate, the lowest amount of calories your body needs to stay alive and function properly), distinguish between visceral (abdominal) and subcutaneous (under the skin) body fat, or assess your biological age (an estimate of how old a person's body is based on their body composition stats). Put simply, smart scales can show your progress in excruciating detail and help identify areas for improvement.

The best smart scales on the market even go a step further — they conduct a segmental body analysis. In simpler terms, they can measure the differences in body fat, bone mass and muscle mass between different “segments” of the body. Usually, that would mean between the left arm, right arm, left leg, right leg and trunk.

The Renpho Morphoscan Nova is one of those advanced smart scales. Most commercially available models collect their measurements from a stand-on platform alone, but this device also gathers data from a handle. And, according to a 2022 review published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology, this kind of foot-to-hand technology tends to produce more accurate results.

We can attest to this — last year, we reviewed a similar foot-to-hand model and were impressed by how much it outperformed the more basic models. But can the Renpho Morphoscan Nova match its functionality and tracking accuracy? We took it for a spin to find out.

Renpho Morphoscan Nova smart scale review: Tried and tested

Renpho Morphoscan Nova: How it works

Most smart scales measure body composition using Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA), or bioimpedance. The Renpho Morphoscan Nova is no different. While this method may sound somewhat dangerous or overly technical, it is actually non-invasive and safe for most people (except for pregnant individuals and those with implanted electronic devices, such as pacemakers). It is also based on a relatively simple principle.

Here's how it works: When you stand on the platform with your bare feet and hold onto the handle with your bare hands, the Renpho Morphoscan Nova sends low-voltage electricity through your body. Then, it measures how much resistance your body puts up against this current. Muscles and other tissues with high water content will allow electricity to flow through freely, but tissues with low water content, such as your body fat, will either slow the passage of that current or completely stop it in its tracks. The smart scale then uses complex algorithms to convert these electrical data points into body composition metrics.

Bioimpedance can produce relatively accurate body composition measurements, but it is important to note that smart scales (even those as advanced as the Renpho Morphoscan Nova) should never be treated as diagnostic tools. Only Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) and other clinically validated methods of measuring body composition can be used for that purpose.

The validity of BIA readings also depends on multiple different factors — hydration level and skin temperature, to name but two. As such, smart scales are best used for casual check-ins and monitoring long-term trends.

Renpho Morphoscan Nova: Design

• Suitable for larger and taller individuals
• Light and portable for its size
• Easy to clean and relatively resistant to smudging

The Renpho Morphoscan Nova costs $219.99, which is about three to four times more than most stand-on smart scales we have tested before. It does look and feel quite premium, though. This device should easily fit in with most bathroom decors, even though it comes in just one style and color.

As mentioned, the Renpho Morphoscan Nova uses foot-to-hand technology, meaning it collects body composition measurements from both a stand-on platform and a retractable handle. Design-wise, it seems to strike a good balance between build quality and functionality. The glass platform feels quite sturdy but not particularly heavy, and it is large enough to accommodate individuals with big feet or a wide stance. The handle is quite wide and long, but we had no issue gripping it securely, and it did not tend to jam when being pulled out of the platform.

We also liked that the Renpho Morphoscan Nova comes with a relatively long retractable cable, as it makes this smart scale very height-inclusive. As tall folks ourselves, we appreciated the fact that we did not have to stoop over while having our measurements taken. Speaking of inclusivity, the Renpho Morphoscan Nova can accommodate individuals weighing up to 397 lbs (180 kg) — more than most smart scales available on the market.

We were also impressed with the 4.3-inch TFT-LCD handle display. It is bright, colorful and easy to read, and it presents your body composition metrics in an easy-to-understand format.

Overall, the Renpho Morphoscan Nova feels relatively user-friendly and well-designed. We are not too sure about its durability, though. This smart scale is light and easy to move around, but this also means it could be prone to accidental damage over time. In all fairness, though, our testing unit did not sustain any scratches or dents — and we are not particularly careful with our appliances.

Renpho Morphoscan Nova: Features

• 23 body composition stats and segmental body analysis
• Only two weighing modes available: Standard and Athlete
• Printable reports to share with fitness coaches or healthcare professionals

The Renpho Morphoscan Nova measures a wide range of body composition metrics, including weight, fat-free body mass, BMI, body fat percentage, bone mass, muscle mass, body water percentage, Basal Metabolic Rate, biological age and waist-to-hip ratio. Overall, we counted 23 different data points. Then there is the segmental body analysis — this smart scale can differentiate between muscle and fat mass in your trunk, left arm, right arm, left leg and right leg, giving you a good overview of your body composition.

All metrics can then be viewed on the handle display or tracked in the free Renpho Health app, or even turned into comprehensive printable reports that can be shared with your fitness coach or healthcare professional. Some of the metrics can also be shared with the Apple Health, Google Fit, MyFitnessPal and Samsung Health apps, and if you use the Renpho Lynx smart ring, also synced with the data collected by your fitness tracker.

Speaking of the Renpho Health app, it looks very "clean" and easy to navigate. All measured data points are laid out clearly and relatively well-explained. That said, some of these descriptions may lack the depth and nuance that could bring more clarity and understanding to those who have never used a smart scale before.

However, the Renpho Morphoscan Nova still feels relatively beginner-friendly, and that is thanks to its personalized insights and wide app functionality. If you set the goal to weight loss, for example, this smart scale will calculate how many calories per day you should consume to get to where you want to be, and then allow you to track your diet in a separate section of the Renpho Health app. Most smart scales focus on body composition only. The Renpho Morphoscan Nova, on the other hand, puts your body analysis in a slightly wider context.

Last, but not least, the weighing modes — we could only find two, Standard and Athlete. This means that you can't use the Renpho Morphoscan Nova for measuring pets, objects or during pregnancy (a mode in which the BIA capabilities are switched off). Given that even some of the most affordable smart scales offer at least three weighing modes, this feels like a big oversight.

Renpho Morphoscan Nova: Performance

• Relatively accurate body composition measurements
• Long battery life
• App connectivity can be patchy

We were also quite impressed with its tracking accuracy. We compared the body composition measurements taken with the Renpho Morphoscan Nova to the data we obtained with a FitQuest machine — a much bigger, more precise bioimpedance scale used in our local gym — and found only minor discrepancies. For example, the difference in body weight readings was a negligible 0.2 lbs (0.1 kg), while the body fat percentage and muscle mass were only slightly overestimated (by 5% and 2%, respectively). In terms of accuracy, the Renpho Morphoscan Nova is on par with the RunStar 8E SmartScan Pro (another foot-to-hand smart scale), and significantly more reliable than every stand-on smart scale we have reviewed before.

The app connectivity, on the other hand, leaves something to be desired. First, we struggled with connecting our Renpho Morphoscan Nova to the app. It took us three attempts and one app reset to get it set up. Then, the smart scale seemed to randomly cut off the connection for no reason. We are not sure whether these connectivity issues had something to do with our phone or the smart scale, and they were not frequent enough to cause us a massive headache — but they were annoying nonetheless. If you like your smart devices to connect flawlessly, you may need to take that into account.

All in all, the Renpho Morphoscan Nova performs relatively well. However, we are not convinced that the sky-high price of this smart scale is entirely justified. To put it into perspective, the RunStar 8E SmartScan Pro offers similar value and costs approximately $50 less.

Renpho Morphoscan Nova: User reviews

At the time of writing this review, the Renpho Morphoscan Nova was rated 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon, while the customer reviews on Renpho's own website placed it at a slightly higher, 4.88-star rating. This smart scale was generally praised for its portable design, comprehensive body composition stats and ease of use.

One user commented: "This is not your grandma's bathroom scale! It's so intelligent and sophisticated that I wonder if I will ever fully grasp all its features and intricacies. [...] Despite my lack of knowledge of or experience with devices such as this smart scale, I didn't have any difficulty installing and connecting the free fitness tracking app. If you or a loved one are truly serious about physical training, body transformation through fitness or other health-related factors, this smart scale would make an awesome addition to your bathroom or workout area."

On the other hand, the Renpho Morphoscan Nova also received a significant number of complaints regarding its poor tracking accuracy and app connectivity.

As one user pointed out: "The app is clunky and feels unfinished. After repeated attempts, the only measurement I could successfully capture was weight. The app constantly warned that it had not finished collecting data before the scale automatically powered off. It never provided a clear reason for the failure, only a long list of possible issues. At that point, the scale becomes nothing more than a basic weight scale. The handheld scanner is comfortable to hold, and the retracting mechanism is a nice design feature, but it does not seem to communicate properly with the app. Because of that, none of the advanced readings that are advertised ever worked for me. Overall, I cannot recommend this scale. It may look smart, but if the key features do not function correctly, it is simply not worth the money."

Should you buy the Renpho Morphoscan Nova?

The Renpho Morphoscan Nova is a great piece of kit for exercise beginners and fitness geeks alike. It is light, portable and easy to use, but more importantly, it delivers in-depth body composition analysis and useful weight management insights. That said, its temperamental app connectivity and limited weighing functionality can diminish your overall user experience.

✅ Buy it if: You want in-depth insights into your body composition stats, and do not mind occasional lapses in app connectivity.

❌ Do not buy it if: You are looking for something more budget-friendly.

If Renpho Morphoscan Nova is not for you

The RunStar 8E SmartScan Pro is a great alternative to the Renpho Morphoscan Nova. These smart scales are eerily similar in design, functionality and tracking performance, but the former costs approximately $50 less and is more frequently on sale.

If you are looking for something more affordable, consider these two stand-on smart scales instead: the Renpho Elis 1 (we named it the best overall in our guide to the best smart scales on the market) and the Wyze Scale X (a slightly more basic and cheaper model). While they are less technologically advanced and functional than the Renpho Morphoscan Nova, these stand-on smart scales do a relatively good job of measuring basic body composition stats and cost less than $50.

Renpho Morphoscan Nova: How we tested

We spent over a month testing the Renpho Morphoscan Nova, looking into its design, functionality, ease of use, app connectivity and value for money. Next, we compared the body composition measurements taken with this smart scale to the data we obtained with a FitQuest machine (a bigger, more precise BIA scale used in our local gym), and gave our verdict on the general reliability and tracking performance of the Renpho Morphoscan Nova.

Smart rings are taking the world by storm, and for good reason. They are lighter, smaller and arguably more stylish than smartwatches, making them an excellent choice for all-day wear. More importantly, fitness tracker rings can provide in-depth assessments of sleep, rest and post-exercise recovery — something that wrist-worn wearables do not tend to focus on. Many fitness professionals like ourselves wear a smart ring alongside our tried-and-tested smartwatches so we can get a better insight into our health and exercise performance. The best part? With spring sales in full swing, they are now cheaper than ever.

We have tried and tested multiple smart rings in relation to their design, features, tracking accuracy, battery life and other factors to give our verdict on their functionality and value for money. You can read more about our testing protocol in the How we test section, and if you are not sure if smart rings are right for you, scroll down to the FAQs section for more buying advice.

Smart rings do not tend to feature advanced motion sensors or GPS navigation, and as such, they may not be well-suited for tracking workouts. If logging exercise is your priority, consider investing in one of the best fitness trackers instead.

The quick list

The best smart rings we recommend in 2026

The best smart ring overall

The Oura Ring Gen 4 takes the well-deserved top spot. This smart ring is an excellent all-rounder, suitable for both beginners and seasoned fitness professionals, and it comes with the most inclusive size range and the longest battery life of all the models mentioned in this guide. More importantly, the Oura Ring Gen 4 offers accurate sleep and heart rate measurements, a good selection of health-tracking tools and personalized advice that is both detailed and easy to understand — all delivered in a beautifully designed and genuinely engaging app. We think it is the best choice for most people, even though it is not particularly comfortable to wear or budget-friendly.

This model is even better than the Oura Ring Gen 3, which we proudly proclaimed to be the best smart ring on the market for the last three years. While both versions offer largely the same features and tracking capabilities, the newer Gen 4 outperforms its older brother with a slimmer design and improved durability. It also feels somewhat more intuitive to use, but this is more likely down to the improvements in the app rather than the design of the ring itself.

Performance is the strongest aspect of the Oura Ring Gen 4. It has the longest battery life of all the smart rings we tested (approximately eight days), and its tracking accuracy is either comparable or better than of the Ultrahuman Ring AIR and Amazfit Helio mentioned below. During our full Oura Ring Gen 4 review, we were particularly impressed with its precise sleep quality assessments, and we can confidently say this smart ring is one of the best sleep trackers on the market.

However, it is now without its flaws. Yes, the Oura Ring Gen 4 is an accurate tracker, but this also means that it has big sensors that inevitably bulk it up. We found this smart ring somewhat uncomfortable to wear, and even after a week of testing, we still could not get used to its 'chunkiness' and heavy-ish weight. Moreover, we were disappointed by its overzealous automatic activity detection — the Oura Ring Gen 4 has a habit of overestimating how much of your daily activity constitutes actual exercise. Lastly, this smart ring needs a subscription for full access to the features.

• Read more: Oura Ring Gen 4 review

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Best subscription-free smart ring

If you do not want to be tied down with subscriptions, consider the Ultrahuman Ring AIR. This smart ring is a close match to the Oura Ring Gen 4 in terms of tracking accuracy, battery life and customization, and in some aspects, it even outperforms it — for example, the Ultrahuman Ring AIR is more comfortable to wear and comes with a more comprehensive selection of health-tracking features. True, its patchy app connectivity can be annoying at times and it can scratch easily when handling sharp objects, but you would be hard-pressed to find a better subscription-free alternative to the Oura Ring Gen 4.

It is a particularly good choice for fitness pros. While all the smart rings mentioned in this guide can help you improve your exercise performance, the Ultrahuman Ring AIR is the most data-heavy and comprehensive in its approach to fitness tracking. Not only is it jam-packed with graphs and numbers, but it can also help you optimize a wide range of lifestyle factors, such as your caffeine intake or sun exposure, and it can even track your blood sugar levels (that said, the Ultrahuman blood glucose sensors are sold separately). Hardly any fitness tracker we tested places so much emphasis on metabolism and circadian rhythm, and these two factors are important for rest and recovery.

Design also scored highly in our books. The Ultrahuman Ring AIR proudly proclaims to be "the world's most comfortable and compact smart ring" — and it rings true. It is the slimmest and lightest model of all the smart rings in this guide, and one that we enjoyed wearing the most. Not to mention, it simply looks good.

But, as we mentioned before, this smart ring is not without its flaws. During our full Ultrahuman Ring AIR review, we were particularly disappointed with its patchy app connectivity. While it worked fine most of the time, there were a significant number of times when we struggled to sync the data or even connect to the app. We could often resolve these issues by simply refreshing the app several times, but it can be annoying nevertheless.

Mixed durability was the other issue for us. While our Ultrahuman Ring AIR could easily sustain salt water, high temperatures and drops from height, it also seemed to scratch easily.

Lastly, its heart rate readings can become unreliable during high-intensity workouts — but then that is something we have seen in all the smart rings we tested.

Read more: Ultrahuman Ring AIR review

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Best budget smart ring

Smart rings are still a relatively new invention, and that is fully reflected in their price. Both the aforementioned Oura Ring Gen 4 and Ultrahuman Ring AIR are priced well above $300, placing them at the same level as some of the best Garmin watches, while many other popular smart rings — such as the RingConn Gen2 or Evie Ring, for example — typically cost more than $200. So, is it still possible to get a decent smart ring on a budget? Absolutely.

The Amazfit Helio costs $199 and we frequently see it on sale for less than $170, which is roughly half of what you would pay for the Oura Ring Gen 4. That is not even the best part. This smart ring is entirely subscription-free, making the Amazfit Helio one of the most affordable smart rings we tested. If our hands-on experiences are anything to go by, it is also one of the best-value models out there.

This budget smart ring nails the essentials. During our full Amazfit Helio smart ring review, we were impressed with its good tracking accuracy, high sensitivity to our fluctuating stress levels and the copious amounts of collected health data. At the same time, we liked that this smart ring does not overload you with numbers and complex terminology, and that it offers plenty of actionable, easy-to-understand health advice. The Amazfit Helio is a perfect option for fitness beginners, even more so than the Oura Ring Gen 4.

Secondly, the Amazfit Helio was very comfortable to wear. It was slim and light enough to make us forget we were even wearing it. This smart ring proved to be surprisingly durable, too. It sustained only one tiny scratch throughout two months of testing. All in all, the Amazfit Helio offers great value for money — as long as you look past some minor inconveniences.

This smart ring is available in three sizes only (8, 10 and 12) and it comes in just one color (light bronze), so it will not suit everyone. On top of that, the Amazfit Helio has a relatively short battery life. This smart ring lasts approximately three days on a single charge, so if you travel or go camping a lot, it may not be the best option for you.

Read more: Amazfit Helio smart ring review

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Best smart rings: Also tested

Best smart rings: comparison

Contributing experts & product testers

Best smart rings: Frequently Asked Questions

How to choose the best smart ring for you?

Our experts agree — there are many factors to look into when choosing a smart ring, but the most important ones are comfort, value for money and the quality of collected data. While it may be tempting to prioritize glitzy looks and advanced frills like multi-app connectivity, it is these three aspects that tend to have the biggest influence on your user experience.

"Choosing a ring starts with comfort," Rail said. Choosing the right size and fit will help you ensure that your ring suits you well, even when your fingers get slightly swollen. "Order the sizing kit, wear each plastic placeholder for an entire day, and notice whether the finger throbs at night," Rail said. Battery life is another important factor here. Four to seven days on a single charge are enough to provide consistent data without frequent charging breaks, Rail said.

Then, decide which measurements can help you make a tangible difference to your health and fitness. "Don’t get lost in the data — start with your goals," Cann said. "For example, ask yourself what you want to change or understand about your sleep, then pay attention to factors that will help you achieve those goals. In my clinical work, I predominantly focus on sleep timing, duration and consistency. Look for a device that offers accurate estimates of these metrics, and these are based on high-quality measurements of body temperature, movement, heart rate variability, and respiratory rate."

One thing you can largely ignore? Sleep stage tracking. "These estimates remain unreliable across all wearables and are not critical for most people looking to improve sleep," Cann told Live Science.

Lastly, weigh the functionality of a smart ring against its price and potential extra fees. Many models require a subscription to unlock all of its tracking tools and advanced features, while some other rings may be subscription-free, but only offer basic metrics. Your choice here will largely depend on your needs, goals and preferences, but it may be worth a try. "A few of my clients have reported that they cancelled the subscription after the first year and still felt satisfied with the core data. Decide whether you value deep coaching and monthly new features or prefer a simple dashboard that keeps running without another bill," Rail said.

That said, be mindful that information overload can lead to data-driven anxiety, Cann said. "Smart rings give you a helpful foundation, but it is what you do with that information that drives change. Use the data to guide actionable steps, like adjusting bedtime, improving wind-down routines, or tracking how stress affects your sleep. That’s how you turn metrics into real improvements," Cann concluded.

Latest updates

How we tested these smart rings

How we test the best smart rings

We are experienced fitness professionals and sports enthusiasts who have spent many years trying and testing activity trackers, including smart rings and other screenless devices. You can trust our judgments — we have a deep passion for wearable tech, use several different devices at a time, and are always on the lookout for the next big thing to help us achieve our health and fitness goals. We have first-hand knowledge as to what works and what does not live up to expectations.

That said, we also pride ourselves on being fair and objective in our reviews. All smart rings in this guide were tested to the exact same standard, using the same procedures. After spending at least a month or two with each testing unit, we ranked it across the following categories:

1) Design. We look into the size, weight and appearance of the smart ring in question. We assess whether it is comfortable to wear and sufficiently customizable (for example, we check how many colors and sizes it comes in), and try to gauge its durability based on the materials it is made of and any scuffs and scratches it may have sustained during testing.

2) Features. We give our verdict on its overall functionality. How many health metrics and activities does it track, and how detailed are these measurements? How many apps can this smart ring connect to? Can it explain your data and provide personalized health advice, and if so, is it actionable and easy to understand?

3) Performance. We put the smart ring through a range of activities to test its battery life, general tracking accuracy and app connectivity. We also assess the validity of its heart rate tracking features using either a chest-strap heart rate monitor (such as the Polar H9) or a medically graded fitness tracker like the Whoop MG.

Verdict. Finally, we try to answer the key questions: Who is this smart ring for? Should you buy it? If so, does it deliver good value for money? After testing, we calculate a final score out of five and explain our reasoning behind it.

What makes the best sleep trackers? Sleep trackers should offer detailed sleep data and present this information in an easy-to-digest format. Preferably being small and comfortable to wear, you shouldn't be aware you're wearing one to bed, and they definitely shouldn't interfere with your sleep.

However, sleep trackers do come in all shapes and sizes. Because of this, we've included suitable smartwatches, ring-style trackers and trackers without screens in this guide, as not one size fits all. Screens may be important for the best fitness trackers, but for monitoring sleep, screens are not necessary. Although, we've included some with screens for those looking to also track their workouts.

Sleep is important for a healthy body and mind. Our personal trainer expert, Alasdair Nicoll from The Fitness Group, told Live Science: "Your body doesn’t get stronger during your workouts — it gets stronger afterwards, during rest and recovery. That’s where sleep comes in, and why tracking it can be so valuable."

"Sleep trackers give you insight into both how long you’re sleeping and, more importantly, the quality of that sleep. Many people assume they’re getting enough just because they’re in bed for seven or eight hours, but it’s the depth and consistency of your sleep that really makes the difference in how well your body recovers, repairs muscle tissue and prepares for your next session."

If you want to find out more about the best sleep trackers, our FAQ section may answer some of your burning questions (especially now, when so many models get discounted in the January sales). All of the products in this guide have been thoroughly tested and reviewed by our expert reviewers. Our How We Test section contains more information on this process.

The quick list

The best sleep trackers we recommend in 2026: Fully tested by our experts

The best sleep tracker overall

In our review of the Oura Ring Gen 4, we were impressed by its ability to accurately track our sleep, capturing when we fell asleep and woke up precisely. Not only this, but the Oura Ring learns about you and your lifestyle over time, which leads to even more accurate data, as time goes on. The accuracy of the data matters as this helps to provide personalized sleep advice to help you improve your health and wellbeing. On that front, we liked the Oura app and felt the metrics were detailed and provided enough depth. We found it a genuinely helpful addition in monitoring our sleep-wake cycle.

However, the design of the Oura Ring 4 means that the ring, although highly durable, is rather chunky. This isn't ideal when having to wear it to bed to gain the sleep data. A good alternative that's a little less bulky is the Ultrahuman Ring AIR.

One aspect that also excels is the battery life. We tested the Oura Ring 4 for four months and we never had to charge it more than once a week. This is good news for anyone who is likely to want to wear this every day and every night.

The wonderful thing about investing in the Oura Ring 4 is that you are getting build quality alongside tracking accuracy and personalized, tailored sleep data. Yes, it's an expensive option and yes, the expense continues with the monthly subscription that will set you back $5.99 per month, but its sleep-tracking features are some of the best we've seen and tested. So, if sleep-tracking accuracy is important to you, we won't hesitate to recommend the Oura Ring 4.

Read more: Oura Ring 4 review

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The best sleep tracker for beginners

The Amazfit Balance is a good option for those new to fitness tracking, and in particular, sleep tracking. It has extensive sleep tracking features available without it feeling overwhelming.

The watch pairs with the Zepp app and there are extra features available, such as an AI-powered sleep coach called Zepp Aura. However, these extra features do require a subscription for access. Although this is slightly annoying, we think these features may be worth the extra cost for beginners, as the insights provided by Zepp Aura may be useful to those new to tracking their sleep.

Overall, the Amazfit Balance performed well in terms of accurately capturing our sleep data. However, it was sometimes too good at recognising when we'd slowed down, logging resting periods, such as when our reviewer was watching TV, as sleep. If you're looking for higher accuracy, this watch may not suit you. You might be better off with the Oura Ring 3 whose accuracy was spot-on. This is a ring-style tracker, though, so if you're looking for a fitness watch style, you may want to consider the Garmin Venu 3, which offers detailed sleep data and has Sleep Coach included as standard.

One huge positive of this tracker is that, in our review of the Amazfit Balance, our reviewer noted how they forgot they were wearing it, with the strap being super-comfortable and described as "buttery soft." This is ideal for a sleep tracker as you don't want it to feel uncomfortable or pinch your skin, waking you during the night. It's also lightweight and compact, meaning it shouldn't interrupt your sleep from feeling bulky on your wrist. Furthermore, the outstanding 14-day battery life is another bonus as you won't have to worry about it running out of juice every other day, like some trackers we've tested.

The watch works by monitoring your heart rate, heart rate variability, blood oxygen, breathing rate, body temperature and body composition. From these measures, it can then work out the quality of your sleep. Every morning, you receive a readiness score (you must wear the watch overnight to get this) that tells you how ready you are for the day ahead.

The score is out of 100, with a lower score indicating your energy levels are low. If the watch detects a low score, or if the score changes, it will recommend ways you can improve your energy levels and even suggest possible causes as to why they're low. This could be very useful for beginners, as it makes the data it captures accessible to those who do not want to be swamped with information.

Read more: Amazfit Balance review

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The best subscription sleep tracker

Unique in that it has no screen, the Whoop MG is a reliable sleep tracker that is not only comfortable to wear but also reduces the temptation to look at another screen while in bed. The lack of a screen may be an issue for exercise, where you might want to check your mid-session stats, but if you want to use the Whoop MG mainly for sleep tracking, we think the lack of a screen is an added bonus.

Furthermore, there are no controls or buttons that you may accidentally press before getting into bed, making this a fuss-free tracker, where all of the data gets sent to your phone. You are in charge of when you look at that data — the Whoop MG simply captures it for perusing whenever the time is right.

The Whoop MG is also quite unique in that it requires subscription — the minimum amount of time you must hold a subscription for is 12 months, so this is something to be mindful of when purchasing.

In our review of the Whoop MG, our reviewer noted that the strap was comfortable to wear and didn't cause any irritation. This is important in any fitness tracker but especially one that you are going to wear to bed. The last thing you want is to be woken up because you feel uncomfortable or your skin gets too irritated.

The Whoop MG captures a wealth of sleep data including the quantity and quality of sleep as well as the stages of your sleep. Knowing and understanding the stages of sleep you enter and when can help you understand more about how your body and mind function when you're resting. This knowledge can lead to better sleep habits including knowing what time to go to bed and what time to wake up. Worried you won't figure this out? The Whoop MG even suggests a good bedtime based on your data and performance during the day.

Your sleep data is also used to calculate something called your recovery score. The tracker uses the quantity and quality of your sleep, among other things, to work out how ready you are to take on exercise. This is helpful to those looking to understand how sleep can impact performance and fitness levels.

One downside for those looking for a fitness tracker that tracks exercise and sleep is that the Whoop MG doesn't have GPS. This isn't a problem when sleeping (as you're not going anywhere… unless you end up sleep exercising, if that's a thing!?) but this can be an issue for those looking for a fitness tracker to capture walks and runs, for example.

While we think this is the best subscription sleep tracker, if you aren't keen to pay a monthly fee you may prefer the Garmin Venu 3 in this guide, as the Sleep Coach is included as standard.

Read more: Whoop MG review

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The best sleep tracker for Fitbit fans

In our review of the Fitbit Luxe, we noted it was comfortable to wear day and night, making it an ideal purchase as a sleep tracker. It's slimline design means you won't be bothered by it during the night, but this doesn't mean you'll be missing out on features.

The Fitbit Luxe can monitor how well you slept and give you a breakdown of the various stages of sleep you were in during the night. It can also sense changes in your skin temperature, which can sometimes be a sign of an infection. That's quite a lot for such a small device.

While you don't need a subscription to Fitbit Premium to use the Fitbit Luxe, a subscription does give you more detailed insights which might prove useful, depending on what you want from your sleep tracker. It's important to note that it's the subscription to Fitbit Premium that give access to the Daily Readiness Score. This score is calculated on your exercise stats, sleep data and more to help you pace yourself throughout the day, helping to reduce fatigue. This information can be useful so it's worth bearing in mind you will need to pay for a further subscription to access this.

While we liked the Fitbit Luxe and its sleep tracking capabilities, we did find the lack of GPS and offline audio annoying for workouts. If you're primarily looking for a sleep tracker, these issues will not matter, but if you were hoping to use it for tracking your fitness and exercise too, you may prefer the Garmin Venu 3 or, if you're on a tighter budget, the Redmi Watch 5.

Read more: Fitbit Luxe review

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The best sleep tracker for Garmin fans

While some Garmin watches can be bulky, in our review of the Garmin Venu 3, we noted this watch was less bulky than some other Garmin watches — making it an ideal Garmin watch for sleep tracking. It's also lightweight so ideal for being inconspicuous overnight.

Now on to the sleep tracking of the Venu 3. It offers a Sleep Coach which, unlike some other trackers in this guide, comes as part of the standard functionality. That means no extra subscription to pay. You also get the standard sleep tracking which can help improve your sleep patterns. From this sleep data, you receive your Morning Report which is a summary of your sleep as well as notes for the day ahead, such as a weather report. This feature can be disabled if you don't enjoy it but for those looking to analyse their sleep, this can be useful to see each morning.

A nice addition on the Venu 3 is that you can load and listen to music or podcasts via the watch with wireless headphones. If you're someone who tends to do this in order to fall asleep, this may appeal to you.

We noted that this watch is rather plain-looking but this isn't necessarily a bad thing. It's a Garmin watch that isn't so military in style — it's a little more calm and sophisticated. Plus, if you're using it mainly for sleep tracking, a plain-looking watch won't matter.

While the Venu 3 is designed to be used for fitness tracking, our reviewer noted it had limited workout features compared to other Garmin watches. However, if you're using this tracker mainly for sleep tracking, this limitation isn't an issue. It might only become an issue if you're specifically looking for a fitness watch to track your workouts and sleep.

Read more: Garmin Venu 3 review

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The best budget sleep tracker

The Redmi Watch 5 made it as one of our best budget fitness trackers. It was a great smartwatch to test and had an amazing battery life, while in typical usage mode, of around 24 days. It was also incredibly intuitive to use, so even if you're new to fitness and sleep tracking, you will be able to get your head around its layout in no time.

The sleep tracking on this budget device was outstanding when comparing it to more premium brands. You can quickly review your sleep data on the device itself in the morning, or go to the accompanying Mi Fitness App where you will see more detailed sleep data.

Your sleep data is monitored over a week to allow you to then discover your "Sleep Animal." Your Sleep Animal basically gives you an idea of what kind of sleeper you are and how this might relate to the natural world, in the form of animals' sleeping patterns. The device also logs your sleep cycles which can be viewed on the app.

And there is more — the app also gives an interpretation of your sleep, which is basically a summary of your sleep the night before while the suggestions gives you a bit of science for you to understand why this sleep pattern may be good or bad for you. These suggestions suggest what you can do to alter it, if you wish to. Finally, your average BPM is captured during sleep, which is a useful tool as it can sometimes highlight any underlying health issues we may have. This is because it can capture your BPM without any external distractions such as stressors, giving a clearer picture of your overall health.

While it may have all of this sleep tracking available, it's important the Redmi Watch 5 is comfortable to wear overnight. Luckily, in our review of the Redmi Watch 5, we noted it was comfortable, with us barely noticing we were wearing it day or night. However, the crown did tend to catch on clothes so this is something to be mindful of if you wear long-sleeved pyjamas. We also found the strap pinched our skin when putting the watch on after charging (although this may only happen once a month due to its great battery life).

Read more: Redmi Watch 5 review

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The best sleep tracker for comfort

If watch-style fitness trackers don't appeal to you, then the Ultrahuman Ring AIR might. We've placed it as the best for comfort as it is featherlight, weighing only a few grams. It is also discreet and unobtrusive, meaning you won't notice it when you're in bed, the same as you may not notice a normal ring while sleeping. Additionally, our reviewer noted, in the Ultrahuman Ring AIR review, that it was comfortable to wear, with user reviews saying it was more comfortable than the Oura 3.

Cleverly, this device uses various sensors to capture data around movement, heart rate and blood oxygen and then uses this to work out your sleep duration, sleep stages, resting heart rate and, a new one to the table, your circadian rhythm. Other trackers in this guide have not offered insights into circadian rhythm so this makes the Ultrahuman Ring AIR stand out, in our eyes.

Once you have had these various elements measured, the app can then offer personalized advice on how to improve your energy levels. Our reviewer found the personalized notifications helpful, allowing them to learn a lot about their circadian rhythm during the testing period. The best thing about all of this? No subscription is needed.

And while the device can capture all of this information, it also displays a wealth of data insights on the accompanying app. The app is essential to access this data — and there is a lot of it! But every data point is explained so beginners need not fear.

Sadly, there were a few things that let the Ultrahuman Ring AIR down. The app connectivity was intermittent which was frustrating when you rely on the app to access your data and the ring scratched easily.

There are also only limited workout features, so it's not ideal for those looking for a fitness tracker that can do it all. A good alternative that tackles some, but not all, of these problems is the Oura Ring 3.

Read more: Ultrahuman Ring AIR review

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The best sleep tracker for style

We gave the Withings ScanWatch Horizon four out of five stars in our review, seeing it as a hybrid between a traditional watch and a smartwatch. With a traditional watch face design to tell the time and a small screen at the top that displays fitness data, the Withing ScanWatch Horizon is a great choice for those less keen on the smartwatch style.

To see your data in full, you need to pair the device with the Withings Health Mate app. This is also where you access your sleep data. The watch monitors your heart rate while asleep and the Coach function offers handy science-backed health wisdom about your data. It can also capture your sleep cycles.

From this data, you are given a score out of 100 based on your overall sleep time, sleep depth, regularity of your bedtime and the number of interruptions you may experience during the night. This score is a simple way to understand what your sleep quality is like.

Furthermore, a nice feature of the Withings ScanWatch Horizon is that, rather than having a full color display blind you in the morning upon waking, only the hour markers glow in the dark. This watch is much less focused on being a "smart" watch and more about tradition. This glow-in-the-dark feature is useful in the mornings on waking up but may not be enjoyed as much during the night.

Sadly, the Withings ScanWatch Horizon is a little on the heavier side than other trackers we've tested. Our reviewer noted they were aware of it on their wrist so this may put sensitive sleepers off, as they may find the weight irritating.

We particularly liked the lack of a touchscreen as this makes it good for those who are less tech-savvy or less interested in smartwatches and gadgets but would still like to track their sleep. The watch works by simply twisting the crown to access fitness stats on the top small screen. This movement is familiar to anyone who wears a traditional watch.

One huge positive was that we experienced no technical hiccups over the testing period. However, this watch lends itself to overall well-being rather than fitness. For example, in our review of the Withings ScanWatch Horizon, we noted it was better for those looking to get moving rather than regular exercisers.

With such a small screen for fitness data, it might not suit those who want to view detailed stats on the watch face itself. It also doesn't have lots of detailed fitness stats, so hardcode fitness fanatics or data junkies may not be too impressed.

Read more: Withings ScanWatch Horizon review

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The best sleep trackers: comparison

Our expert consultants

Best sleep trackers: Frequently Asked Questions

How to choose a sleep tracker

There is no one-size-fits-all solution here. "Sleep is a very personal experience and so is tracking of one’s sleep," Dzierzewski said. "The choice of a sleep tracker should be based on individual factors. What form factor do you find most comfortable? What data are you hoping to see? What device would be easiest for you to use? What price point are you comfortable with? These and other questions can help guide decision-making about sleep trackers," Dzierzewski said.

Accuracy is another important factor to consider. The vast majority of commercial wearables do not measure your sleep directly — they assess it based on other metrics that change while you are asleep, such as your movement, skin temperature, heart rate and breathing rate. "Sleep trackers vary in terms of how well they measure each of these aspects, so these are key features to investigate. If you’re keen to get into the details, then a more premium tracker may be a better idea for you," Cann said.

However, that does not mean you have to spend hundreds of dollars to get a good shuteye. Most people can experience a substantial improvement in their sleep quality by focusing on a handful of key metrics, namely sleep duration, sleep timings, and time spent awake during the night, Cann said. Many budget options can track those three metrics reasonably well.

It is worth noting that the accuracy of a given sleep tracker may vary depending on who wears it. "For example, our sleep changes with age, so check that your sleep tracker has been tested on your age group. Otherwise, you may get inaccurate readings," Cann said. For example, older people tend to be more restless at night, and this may affect the accuracy of optical sensors that measure heart rate.

How we tested these best sleep trackers

How we test the best sleep trackers

Length of time tested for: All of the trackers in this guide were tested for a minimum of one month, with some being tested for a few months. Our expert reviewers wore the devices day and night to see how well they coped with continued use, to see how reliable their advertised battery lives were, and to also test the accuracy of the data captured.

What tests we do: Our expert reviewers used these trackers for various exercises such as gym workouts, running, walking, yoga and swimming. Our reviewers wore the devices overnight to see how well they calculated their sleep quality and to find out what suggestions were made on how to improve their sleep.

Latest updates

August 28, 2025: We swapped the Whoop 4.0 for the Whoop MG fitness tracker.

The best air purifiers for pet owners can help reduce odors that our furry friends kindly share with us. They can also help to reduce the amount of pet fur and dander circulating in the air, helping to improve air quality and in turn, reduce allergic reactions.

As pets don't bathe daily like we do, they can carry unwanted smells and dry skin flakes, known as dander, on their fur. Pets can also carry dust and pollen on their fur which can cause allergic reactions. Odors can also arise from their food, bedding, or litter boxes. To combat these unwanted smells, air purifiers with HEPA filters, which you will find in all of the models in this guide, trap unwanted particles, while activated charcoal filters help eliminate bad smells.

We've already compiled a guide to the best air purifiers on the market, but this one is tailored for air-quality-conscious pet owners or businesses like dog parlours or veterinary surgeries that have animals at their core. You can read more about the best air purifiers for pets in the FAQs section below, and if you are still unsure what to look for, the How to choose section may be of help.

Here you will find a hand-picked selection of our favorite pet-particle-busting air purifiers. All appliances have been tested by us, using the same procedure, with air quality tests conducted with an industry-grade air particle monitor and noise tests done with decibel-counting apps. Take a look at the How we test section to read more about our testing protocol.

The quick list

See the quick list below for a brief summary of our favorite air purifiers for pet owners, or scroll further down for more detailed reviews of each appliance.

The best air purifiers for pet owners 2026: Rigorously tested by our experts

The best air purifier for pets

This is the best air purifier for your animal-loving home thanks to several carefully thought-out, pet-friendly functions. The Levoit Vital 200S's U-shaped air inlet is designed to capture pet fur and dander effectively. It has a pre-filter to catch fur and dander before it reaches the unit's main filter, and a dedicated pet mode that cycles between high-speed and medium settings for maximum efficiency.

The pet-friendly features aren't just clever marketing; they are highly effective. In our hands-on Vital 200S review we were astonished at how quickly the unit improved our air quality, removing almost all harmful air particles in ambient air and in our incense- and match-burning tests.

As with other Levoit air purifiers, this model utilizes the Vesync app, where you can add schedules, timers and adjust fan speeds. You can also get a real-time snapshot of current air quality and a visual of how your air quality changes throughout the day. By monitoring patterns in air quality, you can identify what is causing the unwanted pollutants and take action to improve it.

In our review, we also remarked on how quiet the air purifier was during operation. For the most part, auto mode worked at a whisper-quiet decibel rating of 24 dB.

Although the unit is on the larger side, two handles on the body make it easy to move around the home, and although it is large, it's still quite an attractive bit of kit.

• Read more: Levoit Vital 200S review

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Best air purifier for cats

Every cat owner knows how difficult it is to keep these fluffy creatures from jumping on counters and furniture. Cats are naturally curious animals and, given the chance, will always try to inspect every appliance in your household. This playful nature can spell disaster for most air purifiers available on the market, and even the aforementioned Levoit Vital 200S risks falling prey to their curious paws. So, how can you ensure your appliance is safe for your cats? By playing to their instincts. The SwitchBot Air Purifier Table is a perfect example here — its wide, waterproof tabletop serves as a perfect vantage point for your furry friends. Plus, it features a bite-resistant cord and paw-proof grilles, so you do not have to constantly worry about their safety (or, for that matter, the structural integrity of your air purifier.)

The SwitchBot Air Purifier Table not only cleans the air and doubles as a bedside table, it also features a wireless phone charging station, an essential oil diffuser and a stylish ambient light in multiple colors. On top of that, it is very user-friendly. During our SwitchBot Air Purifier Table review, we were particularly impressed by how quiet it was. When we measured its noise levels at the lowest fan speed, we recorded just 21 dB — equivalent to a whisper or leaves rustling in the wind. We also liked its smart features and light, compact design. It is a fabulous option for gadget geeks.

However, this air purifier also has some shortcomings. For example, the SwitchBot Air Purifier Table is not particularly budget-friendly or powerful enough to suit large spaces. What's more, we found it relatively difficult to assemble. That said, it is still a great air purifier if you can look past these minor flaws.

• Read more: SwitchBot Air Purifier Table review

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Best air purifier for large spaces

The Levoit Core 600S costs around $300 and is a smart air purifier designed for large spaces. It would suit a large home with multiple pets, or a business such as a grooming parlor or cattery.

Its three-stage filtration system captures airborne particles and the activated carbon filter targets household odors like smoke, wet fur and cooking fumes. In our hands-on Levoit Core 600S review, we were impressed by how efficiently the unit improved the air quality across all of our tests.

In operation, the unit is very quiet, even more so when it's in night mode (just 26 dB), so the noise is unlikely to cause any disturbance to noise-sensitive pets.

We love that the Core 600S is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant and is controllable by the dedicated VeSync app, although we found it also worked wonders in 'auto' mode. It has an intelligent sensor that automatically adjusts fan speed based on air quality readings, and a handy PM2.5 display that shows particulate levels for anyone curious to monitor it.

The only real downside to the unit is that it is so big. It would take up too much space and be overkill if you only have a small apartment, but in a larger house or commercial area, it's worth its larger footprint.

• Read more: Levoit Core 600S review

Runner-up

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Best air purifier for tight spaces

Despite the GermGuardian AC4825E being a compact, no-frills air purifier, in our hands-on review, we were impressed by the reduction of particles in our match and incense tests. It removed 41% of 0.3-micron particles from ambient air, 63% after match smoke exposure, and 75% following incense burning.

The unit, like most in this guide, has a HEPA filter and charcoal filter to tackle odors and help maintain a fresh living space. It is quiet in operation at low speeds, but noisier at the top fan speed setting. One standout feature for an air purifier in this price range is its built-in UV-C sanitizer, designed to reduce harmful germs.

Due to its compact size, this purifier is best suited for single rooms rather than large areas. Although the unit's design won't be to everyone's taste, the small footprint (21.5 inches tall and 6.75 inches wide) means it's pretty unintrusive. It's functional and gets the job done rather than trying to impress anyone with aesthetics.

A filter change indicator alerts users when it's time to replace the filter to maintain optimum performance, but that's the “'smartest”' feature of this model. There is no app or smart functionality, but these are “nice to haves”rather than being crucial to air purification.

• Read more: GermGuardian AC4825E review

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Best air purifier for bad smells

The Blueair Blue Signature is a powerful and stylish air purifier suitable for rooms up to 705 square feet. It features an advanced seven-stage filtration system that includes a certified HEPA filter, an activated carbon filter, and patent-pending OdorFence Technology for superior smell removal, apparently up to 10 times more smells than traditional carbon-based filters.

In our hands-on Blue Signature review, performance tests showed impressive results: the unit reduced particle pollution by over 99% in 30 minutes. The purifier is also quiet, with noise levels ranging from 20 to 55 decibels depending on the setting.

Its design is a major pro; it's elegant, can double as a small table, and features a washable fabric pre-filter (available in two colors) and a motion-activated display. The dedicated app provides detailed air quality tracking for PM1, PM2.5, and PM10 particles.

The downsides? The unit is expensive, with additional costs for accessories like pre-filters and leg bases. Replacement filters are also pricey at $99 each and need to be changed every three to nine months. The fabric pre-filter, while effective, requires frequent washing and drying, and you need to be careful not to rip it. Despite the cost and maintenance, we still love its performance and design.

• Read more: Blue Air Blue Signature Air Purifier Review

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Most stylish air purifier for pet owners

It's not often a household appliance gets called 'a thing of beauty', but this is what our reviewer called the IQAir Atem Earth. Made from sustainably sourced beech wood, this air purifier has a unique and pleasing design — a sort of retro, vintage, striped wood effect. It certainly isn't your typical, clunky white household appliance. For those with stylish homes, the IQAir Atem Earth would fit right in and can even be inconspicuous (as no-one would assume it's an air purifier). Not only this, but even though it weighs 7.8 kg, we found it highly portable thanks to its large handle, meaning you can easily place it in different medium to large rooms to purify them.

Luckily, the IQAir Atem Earth isn't just all about its looks — it features a HyperHEPA filter that can remove 99.5% of particles measuring as little as 0.003 microns, which is highly impressive when most air purifiers can capture particles of 0.3 microns. Its activated carbon filter can also help to reduce bad smells in the home — a bonus for cat or dog owners. These premium filters do come at a higher price for replacements, though.

While we love how this air purifier looks, we were disappointed by the lack of smart features, such as a 'welcome home' mode. However, this may not put you off, and it does have six manually adjusted fan speeds and an auto mode that kicks the purifier on using its real-time air quality monitoring. This worked well when we were cooking or using cleaning products, but these are quite basic functions for such a large price tag of $999.

Usage is easy with the unit being controlled by the touchscreen buttons on the top of the purifier, or via the IQAir AirVisual app. Another thing to be mindful of is that it only measures two metrics of air quality: the indoor/outdoor Air Quality Index and PM2.5 (airborne particles that measure 2.5 microns in diameter). This might not be an issue, but those looking for more will want to look elsewhere.

However, we were impressed with this air purifier's performance — it was quiet on the lowest setting and not super loud on the highest (around a conversation level of noise). For those wanting something a little snazzier than a white household appliance, we wouldn't hesitate to recommend the IQAir Atem Earth, but be prepared to pay a lot for the privilege.

• Read more: IQAir Atem Earth full review

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Best low-maintenance air purifier for pets

If you own cats or dogs, you know firsthand how hard it is to keep your household appliances fur-free. Even the most pet-friendly air purifiers will inevitably clog up and require you to frequently wash and vacuum the pre-filters. However, we may finally have a perfect solution to such never-ending maintenance. The Dreame FP10 is the first-ever air purifier that is capable of cleaning itself. That is because it uses a built-in 360-degree roller that keeps its pre-filter free of fur, dust and other large pollutants lingering in the indoor air. All the debris is then collected in a detachable chamber from where it can be quickly disposed of.

The Dreame FP10 is not only easy to maintain, but it also features bite-resistant cords and a detachable tabletop that your playful cats can climb without you having to worry about their safety. Most importantly, it is quiet, unobtrusive and does an excellent job of removing bad odors and airborne particles.

During our hands-on Dreame FP10 review, the unit demonstrated impressive air-cleaning capabilities. It removed 71% of 0.3-micron particles and 75% of 2.5-micron pollutants within 30 minutes in ambient air tests. This is a significant drop, given that both the air purifier and the air particle monitor indicated very low air pollution levels at the time of testing. During the more challenging smoke tests, the Dreame FP10 achieved near-complete particle removal in an equally short time frame.

Overall, this is an excellent choice for pet owners who need a cat-friendly, high-performance air purifier and don't want to spend hours washing the pre-filters.

• Read more: Dreame FP10 review

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Best pet-friendly air purifier for nurseries

Are you a pet owner and a parent of small children? Then the Levoit Sprout may be exactly what you are looking for. This 3-in-1 appliance combines an air purifier, white noise machine and night light, making it an excellent choice for small- to medium-sized nurseries and toddler rooms. Plus, it comes with a dedicated VeSync app and child lock.

During our full Levoit Sprout review, we were thoroughly impressed with its air-cleaning performance and in-depth air quality monitoring. Most air purifiers on the market track just one or two airborne pollutants. The Levoit Sprout, on the other hand, measures several types of solid airborne pollutants, as well as TVOCs, temperature, humidity and carbon dioxide levels. That said, it only measures air pollution in real time, so you will not be able to access any historical readings.

We also liked how quiet and unobtrusive it was. This air purifier is light, compact and designed in a very kid-friendly manner (no sharp edges or protruding elements), and when we measured its noise levels with a decibel-counting app, we did not register more than 47 dB. It is unlikely that this air purifier will disturb your baby's peaceful slumber or keep your pets awake at night.

On the downside, the Levoit Sprout is relatively expensive. It costs around $279, which is more than most air purifiers mentioned in this guide. Moreover, it is not powerful enough to suit large nurseries or households with multiple shedding pets.

• Read our full Levoit Sprout review

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Best no-frills pet-friendly air purifier

The Honeywell Designer Series HPA830 is an effective, budget-friendly air purifier that prioritizes performance over smart features or aesthetics. For around $199, it offers a certified HEPA filter that removes 99.97% of airborne pollutants like pollen and pet dander, down to 0.3 microns. It also includes an activated carbon pre-filter to reduce odors and VOCs (gaseous chemicals emitted by paint, varnish and the like).

This Energy Star-certified unit is best suited for small- to medium-sized rooms up to 190 square feet. It includes three fan speeds, an auto mode, and an air quality indicator light. Performance testing showed it is quiet, operating between 22-58 dB, and effective at removing pollutants. In one of our tests, it removed 89% of small particles from smoke pollution in 30 minutes.

The main pros are its affordable price, reasonably priced replacement filters ($38), quiet operation, and straightforward use.

What is lacking is smart features and an aesthetically pleasing design (though it isn't awful!). We found the air-quality light indicator a little too bright (and there is no way to dim it), but we're splitting hairs. The unit's top surface includes an essential oil diffuser, but as we found out in our hands-on HPA830 review, it's quite fragile.

Overall, it is a solid choice for users who want a simple, no-frills air purifier that gets the job done efficiently.

• Read our full Honeywell Designer Series HPA830 review

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Best budget option

It might not be the most stylish of air purifiers, but the Oneisall Pet Air Purifier does a good job at removing dust, hair and bad odors from rooms. If you don’t mind how your air purifier looks then your pet certainly won’t, and if you’re looking for a budget option that performs, this is it.

While it looks like a white rectangular box, pet owners, and especially cat owners, may enjoy the cat cut out at the bottom. It adds a little detail to the appliance, but it also has a helpful advantage, allowing the user to see how much hair and dust have been collected on the air filters. Although it isn’t the most interesting thing to look at, it is a durable piece of equipment that could withstand a knock from a curious cat or puppy.

As this is a budget-friendly option, don’t expect to see any dedicated apps or smart features here. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t perform well and with ease. For example, the Auto Mode means it automatically adjusts its fan speed to match the level of pollution in the air. You can turn it on and leave it to do its thing. However, you can also manually control the fan speeds, with four settings. Plus, there’s a timer, and the display is dimmable for those who need to have the air purifier in the bedroom overnight.

We were amazed by this budget air purifier’s ability to freshen the air in our home during our review of the Oneisall Pet Air Purifier. Plus, it did this while being quiet — we had to double check we’d turned it on as it was so silent on the lowest fan speed! During our performance tests, it also performed well, hoovering up 82.8% of 0.3-micron particles, 90% of particles measuring 2.5 microns and all pollutants larger than 10 microns when left in an enclosed, medium-sized space on auto for 30 minutes. However, we also found the air quality sensors to be hit and miss in their accuracy, and a little slow to react.

• Read our full Oneisall Pet Air Purifier review

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Best air purifiers for pet owners: Comparison

Our expert consultants

Best air purifiers for pet owners: Frequently Asked Questions