Start with your goals
The "best" fitness tracker depends entirely on what you want to do with it. A runner needs different features than someone focused on weight loss. Here's how to choose based on your primary activity.
Before you buy a device — try Trakon first.
Track walking, running and cycling with your phone's GPS. Free, no wearable needed.
For runners
Look for: built-in GPS, pace tracking, cadence, heart rate zones, interval training support. A smartwatch with GPS (Apple Watch, Garmin Forerunner) is ideal. If you run with your phone, Trakon's GPS tracking covers all the basics for free.
For cyclists
Look for: GPS route tracking, speed, elevation, distance. Cycling computers (Garmin Edge) are purpose-built but expensive. A GPS smartwatch or phone app like Trakon works well for most cyclists.
For walkers
Look for: step counting, distance, daily activity tracking. A basic fitness band (Mi Band, Fitbit Inspire) is sufficient. Or just use Trakon on your phone — it tracks walks with GPS and costs nothing.
For weight loss
Look for: calorie tracking (both in and out), activity logging, progress charts. This is where Trakon shines — it combines GPS activity tracking with AI food scanning, so you can see your full calorie balance in one app. A wearable adds heart rate data but isn't essential.
Track calories in AND out with Trakon.
AI food scanning + GPS activity tracking — the complete weight loss toolkit.
For gym / strength training
Look for: workout logging, rep counting (some smartwatches), heart rate during lifts. A smartwatch is better than a basic band here. Alternatively, log workouts manually in Trakon.
For general health
Look for: 24/7 heart rate, sleep tracking, stress monitoring, step count. A mid-range fitness band covers all of this for $50-$100.
Decision framework
| Your goal | Best option | Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Track walks/runs/rides | Trakon (phone GPS) | Free |
| Weight loss | Trakon + optional band | Free-$50 |
| Running seriously | GPS smartwatch | $200-$500 |
| General health | Fitness band | $30-$150 |
| All-in-one smart | Apple Watch / Galaxy Watch | $200-$800 |
Key features to check
- Battery life — will you actually charge it regularly?
- Water resistance — for swimming or shower use
- App quality — the companion app matters as much as the device
- Compatibility — works with your phone (iOS/Android)
- Privacy policy — who owns your health data?
Start free. Upgrade only if you need to.
Download Trakon and see if phone-based tracking is enough for your goals.