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Best Fitness Tracker Under $100

5 Best Fitness Trackers Under $100

Best Fitness Tracker Under $100
Everyone seems to be into fitness trackers now because they’re great for staying active and helping you reach your fitness goals. Because of their popularity, there are a lot of different activity trackers available on the market now at a variety of price points. While usually, only fitness fanatics are interested in the more expensive exercise trackers on the market, many shoppers want more affordable trackers that only have the essential features. There are many cheap fitness trackers available for tight budgets, but if you can afford to spend a little more you can get better features and better quality. For this article, we’ve searched for the best fitness tracker under $100 and found five fantastic candidates to help you meet your fitness goals.

Check out our comparison chart to find the best fitness tracker under $100 and then read the reviews below. Note: At the time of writing all of these activity monitors were under $100. Since online prices are volatile, they may go over that threshold. We do our best to keep this article up to date.

Fitness Trackers Under $100 Comparison Chart

Check out our comparison chart for the best fitness trackers under $100. If you want to read our in-depth review of each tracker, scroll down to the next section.

NamePhotoRatingFeaturesBuy
Fitbit Flex 2
4 Star RatingWaterproof, sleep tracking, silent alarm, auto exercise tracking, 5 day battery, smartphone app, move reminders
Garmin Vivofit 3
3.5 Star RatingWater resistant, 1 year battery, move reminders, smartphone app, time display
Misfit Shine 2
3 Star RatingWaterproof, 6 month battery, vibration notifications, interchangeable bands
Garmin Forerunner 15
4 Star RatingWaterproof, GPS, 8 hour/5 week battery life, Garmin Connect
Xiaomi Mi Band
4.5 Star RatingWrist Based Heart Rate, Sleep Tracking, LED Display, Move Reminders, Auto Workout Tracking, Splash Resistant

Want to compare all of the fitness trackers we’ve reviewed? Check out our Fitness Tracker Comparison Chart.

Best Fitness Tracker Under $100

Fitbit Flex 2 Activity Tracker

Fitbit’s are still one of the most popular bands of fitness trackers, and luckily they have a model available for every budget (check out our reviews of all of the Fitbit Trackers). For a fitness tracker under $100, the Fitbit Flex 2 is your best bet. Besides the quality of the product, all Fitbit trackers come with their free smartphone app, which allows you to track steps and sleep, but also has the SmartTrack auto exercise recognition to track any activity to you do all day long. Automatic move reminders plus call and text notifications are great bonus features.

The Flex 2 stands out from the other Fitbit offerings because (at the time of writing) it is the only waterproof Fitbit available. This makes it the best model for swimmers or forgetful types who forget to take their activity tracker off before they shower. As far as its design goes, this is one of the most versatile trackers Fitbit offers. While it comes to you in the waterproof band, the tracker itself is a small pill that can be removed and used with third party bands or dressed up and worn as an attractive necklace or bracelet.

Like other trackers in the under $100 price range, the Flex 2 does not feature GPS or heart rate tracking, but if those features aren’t essential to you, this is a great option for an affordable activity tracker.

Available colors: black, lavender, magenta, navy

Good for: swimmers, fashion conscious users, tracking a variety of exercise types

Tracks: steps, distance, calories burned, active minutes, sleep quality and quantity

Notable features: silent alarm, swappable wristband, automatic sleep monitoring, 5-day rechargeable battery, syncs wirelessly to computers and smartphones, waterproof, SmartTrack auto exercise tracking, waterproof, move reminders

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Garmin Vivofit 3 Activity Tracker

Garmin offers plenty of activity trackers for a variety of lifestyles and budgets. We’ve found the Vivofit 3 is the best choice out of their fitness trackers under $100. This tracker is great for monitoring a variety of activity types, which makes it good for people who like variety in their workouts. The Garmin Connect mobile app includes Move IQ which automatically detects different types of fitness activity and records it. The Vivofit 3 also offers the standard step and sleep tracking. If you’re an office worker who needs to be reminded to take breaks, the move bar on the display gives you a quick update on how you’re doing with your daily step goal. The band also features an move alarm to remind you to get up periodically.

If you hate charging your band, the Vivofit 3 has a one-year battery life, so you can just wear your band 24/7 without worrying about battery levels. It’s also waterproof so you don’t have to take it off when you shower. This fitness band also has a built-in display that shows your current step count, calories burned, and the time of day. Garmin’s Vivofit is an excellent option if you’re looking for a quality tracker at an affordable price. The only big features it’s missing are GPS and heart rate monitoring.

Available colors: black, white (additional colored accessory bands available)

Good for: People who do a variety of activities, if you hate charging your band

Tracks: steps, calories, distance, intensity minutes, sleep, inactivity

Notable features: 1 year battery life, silicone band, water proof 5 ATM, auto activity detection, move bar and move reminders, displays time of day & steps, personalized daily goals, Garmin Connect app

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Misfit Shine 2 Fitness Tracker

If you’re looking for a minimalist tracker at an affordable price, check out the Misfit Shine 2. This tracker is a smooth aluminum disc that has no traditional display. Instead it features a ring of lights that can show your up-to-the-minute stats, or you can sync it with your smartphone for the full details on your steps, activity, and sleep. Like the Fitbit Flex 2, the tracker disc can be worn in a variety of ways: as a wristband, as a clip, or even as jewelry. This flexibility means it can be worn on various parts of your body for more acurate tracking of activities like cycling where your wrist doesn’t move.

The Mistfit Shine 2 uses a coin cell battery that lasts for 6 months, which means you can wear it all day, all week long, without worrying about charging. Since it’s waterproof, this is also a great tracker for swimmers. If you want more connectivity with your tracker so it’s closer to a smartwatch, the Shine 2 also can connect with and control your smartphone, Nest, Logitech Harmony and other smart devices. This is a stylish tracker with a ton of features at an affordable price. It is missing the GPS and heart rate monitoring that is hard to find at this price point.

Available colors: pure silver, carbon black, rose gold (other third party replacement bands are available)

Tracks: steps, calories burned, distance, activity types, sleep quality and duration

Good for: swimmers

Notable features: waterproof up to 50 meters, interchangeable bands, vibration alarm for text and call alerts, move reminders, 6 month replaceable battery

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Garmin Forerunner 15

If you’re a runner and GPS tracking is essential for your daily jog, don’t dispair! There is a fitness tracker under $100 that has GPS tracking! The Garmin Forerunner line is loved by many runners, and their Forerunner 15 is priced under $100 and has the features runners need. What looks like a digital watch provides much more than the current time, this tracker uses GPS to track your distance and route, which can be easily viewed on a map if you sync with Garmin connect. In between runs, it also tracks general activity, tallying steps taken and alerting you of inactivity. Since it’s waterproof, this tracker is also great for running in the rain or taking a swim.

Features specifically designed for runners include an auto lap function that beeps whenever you complete a mile and instantly gives your mile time. The GPS is used to record your time, pace, and distance for outdoor runs. (If you train indoors during the winter, connecting a foot pod can provide the same info). It also tracks your stats to let you know when you set a personal record for run time or fastest mile.

If heart rate monitoring is essential for your tracking, this model is also available with an optional heart rate strap, though it does increase the price. Depending on current pricing and the color/size you select that may boost the price over $100. The big con we find with this model is it doesn’t have Bluetooth connectivity, so it can’t sync automatically with your smartphone. Instead, after each run, you need to connect it to a PC or Mac to sync your data to Garmin Connect. If this is an issue for you, consider one of the other trackers in the article or one of the higher-priced Forerunners.

Available colors: black/blue, black/green, red/black, teal/white, violet/white

Good for: runners, people who run occasionally and want all day activity tracking

Tracks: steps, calories, distance, GPS route, auto mile time (optional heart rate)

Notable features: waterproof 5 ATM, auto-lap function, inactivity indicator, 8 hour battery life in training mode, 5 week battery life in watch/activity tracking mode, syncs with Garmin Connect, indoor training with optional foot pod

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Xiaomi Mi Band 6 Fitness Tracker

The Xiaomi Mi Band is priced a lot cheaper than the other trackers on this list. Xiaomi has consistently produced some of the best cheap fitness trackers on the market, and they’re worth considering if you’re searching for the best fitness tracker under $100.

While the Xiaomi Band doesn’t have some of the fancier features of higher-priced fitness bands, it has the features most users need. It covers all the basics like step counting, calories burned and sleep tracking, as well as the bonus of heart rate tracking (which is usually impossible to find in a tracker at this price point). All of this information is available in the free smartphone app, which helps you track your progress and set exercise targets to help you meet your fitness goals. The latest model also adds a few great features like a waterproof design and real-time display of exercise stats right on the band.

The Xiaomi Band is one of the few fitness trackers that displays steps on the band or the current time on its OLED display screen. It also has a touch button to switch between displays. Add in a smart alarm that wakes you during the best point in your sleep cycle and the 20 day battery life, this is an excellent choice for an affordable fitness band.

Available colors: black (but replacement bands in a variety of colors are available)

Good for: Office workers who want to be more active, runners who want to monitor speed and heart rate

Tracks: steps, heart rate, running speed, sleep duration and quality

Notable features: LED display, real-time exercise stats on band, time, heart rate monitor, move reminders, auto-work out tracking, auto sleep tracking, waterproof, Bluetooth syncing, compatible with Android 4.4+ and iOS 7+, Android only: phone text and call alerts, 20 day battery life

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On a budget? Check out the best cheap fitness trackers.

Still searching for the perfect activity tracker? Check out our fitness tracker comparison chart or discover options through activity tracker features or best trackers by activity type.

GPS Trackers for Seniors and Elderly Dementia Patients

GPS Trackers for Seniors & Elderly Dementia Patients

GPS Trackers for Seniors and Elderly Dementia PatientsAs parents and grandparents age, family members often worry about their well being. Whether they suffer from dementia or just general forgetfulness, there’s often a concern about seniors getting lost, going missing, or having health problems away from home. GPS trackers for seniors are a great way to provide peace of mind to relatives while allowing elderly family members to continue living an independent life in their own home. These trackers will allow you to locate your parent or grandparent in an emergency or if they go missing.

One thing to note when shopping for GPS trackers for seniors: these devices all require some sort of mobile data or subscription program to work. This is standard to have a working GPS tracker. Either the makers of the device will offer their own monthly subscription or you will be able to insert a SIM card in the device. For trackers that accept a SIM card, you may be able to get one at a discount “data only” rate from your cell phone provider.

Best GPS Trackers for Seniors

Yepzon One Senior GPS Locator

Yepzon may have a strange name, but this Nordic designed GPS tracker is perfect for keeping tabs on pets, kids, and elderly family memebers. The tracker is a sleek, white device that can be worn as a necklace or attach to the body or clothes in other ways. It requires a $4.95 a month subscription fee, which provides you will location updates every 10 seconds, which you can check at any time in the Yepzon app. The app can be shared with family members and caregivers, so all of the important people in your life can track the person. Yepzon comes with a rechargable battery that features energy saving settings. The device automatically goes to sleep if there is no movement detected and you can switch it off at night to save battery life.

The big con with this tracker is that the senior citizen you want to track needs to remember to put it on when they leave the house. You could easily slip it into a jacket pocket or purse, but again they would need to remember to take that item with them so you can track them. Reviewers also say the sleep mode can be a con, as the device does not transmit the current location when it is asleep. Other reviewers have found it to be a perfect solution for tracking elderly family members with dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Notable features: location tracking every 10 seconds, Yepzon app (iPhone, Android, Windows), long battery life, $4.95 a month subscription fee, worldwide coverage for US, Europe, and Russia

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LESHP GPS Tracking Device

If you’re looking for GPS tracking for elderly family members that has more features, check out the LESHP. Most people we talk to who are shopping for senior GPS tracking devices also want one with a built in alarm button that the wearer can press if there is an emergency situation. The LESHP has a built-in SOS button that automatically sends a text message and call to up to 3 different numbers. It also enables 2 way voice communication through the device so you can find out exactly what’s wrong. This makes this GPS tracker perfect for seniors and also children. If falling and getting injured is a concern, this device also has a built-in fall monitor. They also advertise a “spy mode,” where you can listen in the device remotely, but that may not be a feature you need.

The LESHP utilizes a SIM card and regular data plan to provide GPS tracking, which gives you flexibility in purchasing the card from your cellular provider or a cheaper plan. It can be worn around the neck, attached to a keyring, or placed in a pocket, purse, or bag. This can be a con, especially if the person who you want to track forgets to take the tracker with them. Another con for the LESHP is that the device does not have an accompanying app. Instead, you send a text message to the number for the SIM card and it will respond with a link to Google maps that you can view on a smartphone. Alternatively, you can sign up for a web account to view location info on their tracker website. If you’re looking for more features, this is a good option for GPS tracking for seniors.

Notable features: SOS alert button, 2-way calling, Geo-fencing/perimeter boundaries, SIM card slot, fall monitor, docking station for charging

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Pocketfinder GPS Locator for Seniors

If you’re looking for compact GPS tracking for elderly dementia patients, consider Pocketfinder. The device can be placed in a bag or clipped to the person you want to track. Using a computer or the free smartphone app you can get real-time location updates. Use the app to set up zones and receive alerts (text, email, and push notification) when your elderly family member wanders away. Pocketfinder requires a monthly subscription fee ($12.95 for the US), which gives you the real-time GPS tracking.

Sturdy and waterproof, Pocketfinder has no “sleep” mode so you can always find your loved one’s location. Some reviewers have found that the cell coverage required for this device to work is not available in the area where they live. You may want to look into the availability in your area before you buy.

Notable features: Monthly service plan, free iOS & Android app, rechargeable battery, 1-5 day battery life, zone alerts, speed alerts, 60 days historical location data, waterproof

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Need more GPS tracking? Check out GPS tracker clips and watches for kids and dog activity trackers.

Autosleep Sleep Tracking App for Apple Watch

Best Apple Watch Sleep Trackers

Best Apple Watch 2 Sleep Trackers

The Apple Watch is a great option for active people who are looking for a smartwatch that also tracks their fitness and steps. The Apple Watch Series 2 even takes it to the next level by providing a waterproof watch that can track swimming. It also has built-in GPS, heart rate tracking and a variety of fitness and health tracking apps to help you stay on top of your activity. (Check out prices on Amazon for Apple Watch 2.) The one downside of the Apple Watch is that it does not provide a sleep tracking that is commonly seen in many fitness tracks with built-in sleep tracking.

If you’re searching for a way to track your sleep with your Apple Watch 2, there are plenty of options. There are many compatible apps and sleep trackers available that can feed their data to the Apple Health app so you can keep track of it along with your steps and exercise. We looked through all of the options available on the market today to locate the best Apple Watch 2 sleep trackers. These sleep tracks also sync with your iPhone if you use the Health app and your phone to count your steps. Check out the reviews below.

Apple Watch Sleep Trackers

Autosleep App for Apple Watch

Autosleep Sleep Tracking App for Apple Watch

If you’re not interested in buying any additional gadgets to track your sleep, the best option is this app by Tantsissa. Designed specifically for tracking sleep with the Apple Watch 2, all you need to do is install the app on your iPhone and the Autosleep automatically tracks your sleep when you wear your Apple Watch to bed. It uses Apple’s concept of Activity Rings and applies it to sleep with their Sleep Rings which challenges you to achieve quality sleep each night to close your rings.

The Autosleep app uses all the data gathered by your Apple Watch to quantify the amount of sleep you got, as well as tracking deep and light sleep based on your movement and heart rate. It then gives you a quality score for your sleep. All this data can be viewed on a daily or monthly basis to look for sleep trends and work to improve your overall quality and quantity of sleep. All of this data can also be written to your Apple Health app so you can view all of your information in one app.

If you don’t want to wear your Apple Watch to bed because you find it bulky or uncomfortable, the app will still work. Unfortunately, you lose out on the auto-tracking features. Instead, you have to set your watch on charge before you go to sleep and then put it on when you wake up in the morning. Many users may find this inconvenient and you might want to choose another sleep tracker if you don’t want to wear your watch at night.

Tracks: sleep quality, duration

Notable features: automatic sleep tracking if you wear your Apple Watch to bed, history and monthly overview, Sleep Rings

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Pillow Sleep Tracking App for iOS

Pillow Sleep Tracking App for iOS

Pillow is an iOS app that can track your sleep from your Apple Watch or your iPhone (and you can view the data on your iPad). It also has some additional features that some users may enjoy over the Autosleep. Wearing your Apple Watch while you sleep is optional, but if you want the most data (especially heart rate data) you will need to wear it at night. While you sleep, Pillow monitors your movement and also sounds in the room (like snoring or breathing patterns) which is analyzed to give you in depth sleep data about the quality and quantity of your sleep. It even gives you the amount of REM time you get each night and records any noises so you can listen to them the next day. (Some users say they get humorous recordings of them talking in their sleep.)

Other cool features include an alarm clock, built in nap modes, and a Snooze Lab with suggestions on how to improve your sleep experience. All of the data syncs seamlessly with Apple’s health kit so you can analyze your sleep data in conjunction with other health data.

Some users find the hassle of setting up Pillow each night to be annoying and prefer the simplicity of Autosleep’s automatic tracking. Other users feel like the extra features, like audio recording and REM tracking, are worth it for this app.

Tracks: sleep sounds, movement, heart rate (if wearing Apple Watch), awake time, REM time, deep and light sleep time

Notable features: audio recordings, sleep analysis, history tracking, alarm clock, built-in nap modes.

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Beddit 3 Sleep Tracker

If you don’t want to wear an Apple Watch or other wrist based tracker while you sleep because you find it uncomfortable or that it disturbs your sleep, there are other options for sleep monitoring and tracking. Beddit is a tracker you don’t wear. Instead, it’s a strap that goes across your mattress under your sheets–it’s like it isn’t even there. Beddit can track for 1 person or 2 people sharing a bed. The sensor measures your heart rate, breathing, snoring and information about your bedroom environment. All of this info is transfered to the Beddit app which gives you a sleep score to easily track the quality and amount of sleep you’re getting each night.

You can view all of this info in the iOS app or have your data automatically transfer to the Health app where your Apple Watch records all your activity info throughout the day. This is a great, no-fuss way to track your sleep without having to wear a device. It works perfectly for couples and can really help you dig into the things that are disturbing your sleep and figure out how to improve it each night.

Tracks: sleep, heart rate, breathing, temperature, humidity, sleep efficiency, sleep cycle

Notable features: automatic tracking, compatible with Apple Health Kit,

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Sense Sleep Monitoring System

If you’re looking for other options for home sleep trackers, the Sense is a great choice. Sense works by attaching a “Sleep Pill” to your pillow–this is a small tracker that clips onto the edge of your pillow and monitors you throughout the night. This date is sent to the Sense base, which is an attractive globe that sits on your nightstand and monitors your bedroom’s environment. These sensors automatically track your sleep at night and even features a Smart Alarm that can weak you up during a light sleep stage.

All of this data syncs with your iPhone and Apple Watch and you can view it in the free Sense app or the Health app. You can then analyze your sleep trends over time or even look at how environmental factors like temperature and humidity affect your sleep. This can help you make changes to improve your sleep each night. This sleep monitoring system works great for couples as well, you just need to buy a Sleep Pill for each person’s pillow. Some bonus features the Sense offers are sleep sounds to help you fall asleep and voice commands to request sleep data, set alarms or control compatible smart devices.

Available colors: white, black

Tracks: light, sound, when you go to bed, when you fall asleep, temperature, humidity, air quality,

Notable features: voice commands, smart alarm, sleep sounds to help you fall asleep, sleep insights & suggestions

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Check out more home sleep monitoring devices that do not require you to wear a tracker. If you’re not sure the Apple Watch is right for you, we also have recommendations for fitness trackers that monitor your sleep.


Best Dog Activity Trackers

5 Best Dog Activity Trackers 2024

Best Dog Activity TrackersActivity tracking for pets is a newer part of the fitness tracker market, but in recent years we’ve seen an increase in trackers for pets. Most of these trackers are geared towards dogs, which makes sense when you consider how much exercise a dog needs. They need daily walks and time to run and play to keep them healthy, happy, and at a good weight. When life gets busy with work and other obligations, it’s easy to overlook your puppy’s health. Dog activity trackers can help you keep track of the exercise your pooch is getting and make sure it meets their needs. We’ve rounded up the best dog activity trackers currently available on the market so you can find the best pet fitness tracker to meet your needs.

Check out the quick comparison in the chart below and then scroll down to see the individual dog activity tracker reviews.

Dog Activity Trackers Comparison Chart

To read the reviews of each product, keep scrolling to the next section.

PhotoNameRatingGPSFeaturesBuy
FitBark 24.5 Star RatingSleep Tracking, Waterproof, iOS Android & Web apps, 14 day rechargeable battery
Whistle4 Star RatingWaterproof, Activity & Rest Tracking, 20 Day Rechargeable battery
Tractive4 Star RatingWaterproof, Sleep & Activity Tracking, 7 Day Rechargeable battery, iOS & Android apps
Petkit P24 Star RatingSleep & Activity Tracking, Waterproof, iOS & Android Apps
Link AKC3.5 Star RatingWaterproof, Activity Tracking, Temperature Alerts, LED Light

Best Dog Activity Trackers Reviews

FitBark 2 Dog Activity Monitor

FitBark was one of the first dog activity monitors on the scene and their high quality fitness trackers for dogs are still some of the best on the market. Fitbark features the tracking and goal features you expect in your own fitness tracker, perfectly customized for your dog. Their philosophy is to treat your dog like your exercise partner and through helping them reach fitness goals you will help yourself.

The sensor is an 8 gram tracker in the shape of a dog bone that clips to your pet’s collar. It then tracks your dog’s activity and sleep, adding up BarkPoints to track progress and complete fitness goals. Through the free smartphone app you a set a fitness lifestyle for your dog to base the goals on. Plus if you have a Fitbit, you can compare your activity to your dog’s.

Other benefits of the app include monitoring your puppy’s health conditions and tracking daily rest, active, and play times. This data will help you monitor your dog’s health and behavior changes, making it easier to detect new illnesses and share the info with your vet. The company also uses all the data they’re gathering to study patterns among dogs of all breeds and ages to learn more about the health and lives of dogs across the world.

The only downside to the FitBark is it does not have built-in GPS tracking which is useful for locating your dog if they’re lost. If you want that feature, you’ll have to consider other pet trackers.

Available colors: baby pink, cool gray, emerald green, light blue, true red

Good for: fitness-minded owners, dogs of all ages and breeds

Tracks: activity, sleep, behavior

Notable features: 3D accelerometer, waterproof, fitness app for iOS Android or Web, 14 day rechargeable battery life, compare stats with your Fitbit trackers

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Whistle Go GPS Dog Tracker & Activity Monitor

If GPS tracking is essential for your pooch, the Whistle Dog activity trackers may be a better choice for you. The Whistle tracker attaches to your dog’s collar and tracks them with GPS, cellular, and Wifi technology to find your pet quickly if they escape or runaway. You can even get email, app, or text notifications if your dog leave their designated safe areas, which you can customize. In order to do all of this you must purchase a subscription plan ranging from $6.95 – $7.95 per month, depending on the billing terms you select. The GPS will only work in the United States. Because of the monthly charge, we would only recommend buying the Whistle if you need GPS tracking for your dog (or cat).

For fitness tracking, the Whistle tracks your puppy’s activity and rest times and compares it to the averages for their age, weight, and breed. You can also set custom goals and track their performance over time. This will help you identify any behavior changes that can be an indicator of illness.

One thing to note: you will need a home wifi network to set up the Whistle tracker when you receive it. Reviewers also note that the collar uses its connection to your home network to determine if the dog is at home or has run away. For some people with far-reaching wifi signals, that causes a delay in receiving a notification that their dog has run off.

Available colors: gray, green, pink

Good for: dogs & cats, pets who think they’re Houdini

Tracks: GPS location, activity, rest, calories, distance, behaviors

Notable features: GPS tracking, waterproof, tracking alerts, 20 day rechargeable battery, 2 hour charge time, behavior tracking (licking, scratching, sleeping)

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Tractive Waterproof Activity & GPS Dog Tracker

If keeping track of your pooch is as important as monitoring their activity, Tractive has the features you need. The tracker is a subtle device that attaches to collars or harnesses up to 1 inch wide. It features activity tracking to see how much exercise your dog gets during the day and the app lets you track their progress over time and set goals to keep them fit. You can even compare to other dog’s activity levels. At night, Tractive will monitor their sleep so you know how much rest they’re getting.

The Tractive dog tracker offers 24/7 live GPS tracking, with a “LIVE mode” that updates your pup’s location every 2-3 seconds. You can also use the map to create a virtual fence around your home to set safe and no-go zones. The app will alert you as your dog leaves these zones. Another fun feature in the app, it will track your dog’s location history. You can see their favorite hangouts while you at work or even find their secret hiding spots. If you’re having a hard time finding your pup, use the built in tracker light and alarm to help locate them.

The GPS feature does require a subscription with AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, or Viaero Wireless USA, but this enables you to track your dog across the USA and in 150 different countries.

Available colors: white, coffee, midnight blue

Good for: dogs who are home by themselves during the day, escape artists

Tracks: GPS location, activity, sleep

Notable features: 24/7 GPS tracing, live location updates, location history, dog safe power button, tracker lights up and makes a sound to locate, 7 day battery life, 100% waterproof

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Petkit P2 Activity Monitor for Dogs

If you’re looking for affordable or cheap dog activity monitors, you may be interest in Petkit’s offering. Their activity monitor is designed for cats and dogs and easily clips onto your pet’s collar for 24/7 tracking. You can use the free smartphone app to monitor health status, calories burned, and time spent sleeping. This helps keep you in touch with your pet’s health and any trends or changes in activity. It also tells you your dog’s mood, though it’s a little unclear how it measures that.

This cheaper pet monitor does not offer GPS tracking but really this tracker is meant to give you a quick picture of how active your dog has been during the day. Unfortunately, you have to be within Bluetooth range to update the stats to your app, so you can’t track your dog from the office. The features aren’t as nice as some of the higher priced dog trackers, but it’s a nice entry-level product to consider.

Good for: budget priced tracker, general activity and sleep tracking

Tracks: activity, sleep (deep vs. light sleep), calories burned, mood

Notable features: waterproof, LED indicator light, iOS & Android apps,

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Link AKC Smart Dog Collar with GPS Tracker & Activity Monitor

The Link Smart Collar has all the tracking you need for your dog built into one attractive collar. It’s basically like a smartphone for your dog. For activity tracking, the Link AKC gives you as many options as a regular fitness tracker for humans. The companion smartphone app allows you to enter your dog’s age, breed, and size to give accurate and customizable daily activity goals.

This collar is perfect for adventurous dogs. It’s waterproof up to 3 feet, perfect for visits to the dog beach, pool, or just long walks in the rain. The collar also has an Adventure Mode that records walks, hikes, and other outdoor adventures with your pooch.

The free smartphone app makes it easy to track your dog if you get lost or monitor your puppy’s walks while you’re at work. You can also set up Safe Zones to be instantly alerted when your dog escapes your home. If you have a whole family of dogs, no worry, the app allows you to sync with up to 10 collars. You do need a GPS service subscription through AT&T for the GPS tracking. The collar comes with three months free. It only works within the USA>

Additional safety features include temperature alerts which warn if it’s too hot or too cold where your dog is and an LED light built into the collar for increased visibility during nighttime and early morning walks. You can also use the app to emit sounds from the collar, perfect for training. The tracker itself pops out of the collar for easy charging.

Available colors: Brown Leather or Black Sport

Good for: dogs over 10 lbs, tracking your pet’s activity, GPS tracking & location

Tracks: activity minutes, walks/hikes

Notable features: GPS Tracking, Customizable Activity Goals, Smartphone App for iOS & Android, Safe Zone Alerts, Waterproof, Sound Training, Temperature Alert, LED Light, 3 Day Battery Life, Vet Record Storage

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Looking for more gadgets to make the most of adventures with your dog? Check out these GoPro dog mounts and dog camera collars.

Keep tabs on your kitty with these GPS cat trackers and activity monitors.

Upright Smart Wearable Posture Trainer

Best Posture Wearables & Trackers

Best Posture Wearables & Trackers

With all the joys and convenience of modern life, there are some pitfalls. The biggest is the amount of time we spend sitting, often at a desk for work or in the driver’s seat as we commute. Fitness trackers have helped address some of the issues that come from a sedentary lifestyle, but now they’re also targeting another area many people need help with. Posture wearables and trackers help combat the bad habit of slouching that can lead to back pain and other health issues over time. They help remind you to sit up straight, kind of like your mother whispering in your ear “sit up straight!” all day.

The poster trackers currently available on the market come in a variety of styles, from discreet wearables to technology that looks like it’s from the future. Depending on your specific needs, there is a posture sensor on the market to help you improve your posture, appearance, and overall health. In this article we’ve broken down the most popular posture coaches on the market so you can find the one that’s right for you. These include a variety of posture wearables and even a coach that you just sit on.

Posture Wearables & Coaches

Lumo Lift Posture Coach and Activity Tracker

Lumo Lift Posture Coach and Activity TrackerThe Lumo Lift is one of the most popular and well known of the posture wearables on the market currently. The tracker is a sensor that is worn using a magnetic clip on your shirt near your collar bone. It can be worn on an undershirt or jacket that is snug to your body and the tracker is very discreet. When you put it on you’ll set your Target Posture and the sensor uses angle displacement to know when you’re slouching. Using the free Lumo Lift app, you’ll program how often you want to be alert of bad posture and it will vibrate to remind you to sit up straight. In addition to these reminders, the posture tracker app also displays stats of your progress and improvement of your posture over time.

In addition to the posture training, the Lumo Lift also features basic activity tracking that’s common in most wearables. As long as you’re not looking for a robust or activity specific tracker (like those for running or swimming), the Lumo Lift is a great option to replace your regular step-counter or activity tracker. In addition to the posture tracking, the app also displays steps taken, distance walked, and calories burned. We think, in considering all the posture wearables on the market currently, that the Lumo Lift is the best choice for people who work office jobs but also live an active lifestyle.

One of the downsides to the Lumo Lift posture trainer is that it does require a little tech savvy to use and set up (it is not ready to go out of the box). The manufacturer recommends reading through the instruction manual before you use, as you need to set your Target Posture frequently (and every time you put the Lumo Lift on). Most people who regularly use smartphones and other trackers and tech devices should be OK, but this may not be a good option for a parent or grandparent who needs help setting up and using new devices.

Available colors: Silver or Black Clasp (comes with both)

Good for: improving your posture while tracking activity

Tracks: sitting and standing posture, steps, distance, calories burned

Notable features: Discreet magnetic clip tracker, free Lumo Lift app for iOS and Android, USB charging dock, posture coaching, pedometer, real-time feedback

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ALEX N5 Posture Tracker & Coach

ALEX N5 Posture Tracker & Coach - Best Posture WearablesIf you’re not looking for a discreet posture wearable, the Alex N5 may be a device you want to consider. It looks like a device out of the future, but this technology is real and ready to help you improve and correct poor posture. It is worn on the back of the neck, with two hooks that go over each ear to hold it in place. To track your posture it measures the angle of the neck and if it moves into a poor posture angle the tracker vibrates to remind you to sit up straight. The free Alex app tracks your progress over time and helps you improve. You can also use it to customize settings for how often you’d like alerts.

Alex is only meant to be worn during your inactive time, like while sitting at work. While it works in sitting and standing positions, you won’t get any extra tracking benefits while exercising or running errands. This posture sensor is a great choice for people who are just looking to improve their posture at specific times and are not interested in any other tracking features. Since it does not have any activity tracking built in, you would need a separate device to count steps or other exercise.

Some reviewers have noted that while the Alex N5 is great a detecting neck bend, it may not detect when your shoulders and upper body slouch forward. You may want to evaluate the way your body slouches when trying to decide between the Alex and other posture wearables that attach to the upper body (like the Lumo Lift).

Available colors: black only

Good for: for tracking posture while sitting at a desk

Tracks: sitting and standing posture

Notable features: customizable vibrating posture reminders, pivot sensor and 3 axis accelerometer, light weight and adjustable for a comfortable fit, Bluetooth 4.0 syncing, free coaching app for iOS or Android, 70 hour battery life

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Upright Go Smart Wearable Posture Trainer

The Upright Posture Trainer is different from other trackers because it attaches directly to your body. This posture sensor attaches to your upper back and uses an accelerometer and multi-sensors to measure when you’re slouching. It gives a gentle buzz to remind you to sit up straight (and the vibrations are completely silent). It’s discreet since you’ll wear it under your clothes, so your co-workers will have no idea you’re posture training during an afternoon meeting.

Upright, like all posture wearables, comes with its own app for tracking your posture improvement over time and in the moment. The claim the manufacturers make is that instead of wearing it all day long, you can actually just wear it for 15 to 60 minutes a day. The core strength and muscle memory you build in that time should be enough to build a habit of good posture, but we’re a bit too skeptical to believe that claim. It seems like the manufacturers are advertising it more like a “quick fix” than a long term tracker.

There are some downsides to the Upright. Since it sticks to your skin, you have to use adhesive strips to attach it. The device comes with 60 strips in the box, but over time you will have to buy more. That also makes it less convenient to wear than posture wearables like the Lumo or the Alex N5, which are easy to slip on in public places like the office. It may take longer for you to get results if you’re only wearing it for a limited amount of time daily.

Available colors: white only

Good for: discreet posture coaching for only an hour a day

Tracks: posture

Notable features: poor posture buzz reminders, USB charging docking station, free iOS and Android app, made of medical grade silicone

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Darma Pro Comfort Cushion Posture Coach

Darma Pro Comfort Cushion Posture Coach and Activity TrackerPosture wearables aren’t for everyone. If you’re looking for a posture coach you don’t have to wear, then you’re in luck. Darma is a smart cushion that you can place on any chair. In addition to cushioning your bottom, it has a lot of interesting technology packed into it. It not only tracks your postures and knows if you’re slouching or leaning off center, it can also track and provide real time data on your heart rate and breathing. The Darma then uses this information to measure your stress levels and makes suggestions to meditate or take a break to reduce your stress.

As far as posture coaching goes, when the built-in sensor detects that you’re sitting poorly, it sends an alert to your phone reminding you to sit up straight. The Darma app also gives you the ability to build custom modes and reminders, so it can tell you to take a break every hour to get up and stretch. The app can even give you a stretching guide. Instead of being an “activity tracker,” Darma works more as a sedentary tracker, recording how long you spend sitting and helping encourage you to be more active in addition to improving your posture.

This product is really great for office workers who sit at a desk all day and want automatic tracking that they don’t need to set up or put on frequently. You do have the trade out the ability to track and improve your standing posture. Also, while the Darma cushion tracks how much time you spend sitting, it does not feature any other types of activity tracking, so you may need a separate fitness tracker if you want info on calories burned or steps taken.

Available colors: black only

Good for: office workers who don’t like wearing trackers or other devices

Tracks: posture, heart rate, respiratory rate, sitting time, stress level

Notable features: patented fiber optic sensors, made of foam padding and premium artificial leather covering, 15 day battery life, Darma iOS and Android App, Poor Posture alerts, stretching guide

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Why Should I Worry About My Posture?

You may think having perfect posture doesn’t matter. But poor posture does more than just affect your physical appearance. It can cause serious health problems in different areas of your body.

First, what exactly is good posture? When you stand or sit with proper posture it means your bones and muscles are properly aligned. Your body is moving and resting as it is designed to work, meanings that muscles, joints, and ligaments are being used as nature intended. Since the structure of your body is properly aligned, that means your internal organs are also in their correct positions so they can work efficiently.

When you slouch or otherwise have poor posture, your muscles are straining to hold your body in unnatural ways. Your internal organs may be compressed, which can lead to digestion issues. This can lead to issues with neck and back pain and over your lifetime it may become painful to sit for long periods of time. You may also have issues with fatigue as your muscles are working overtime to hold your body up, meaning you’re wasting energy just trying to move through your day. Poor posture can also contribute to arthritis and other joint issues as you age, from the wear and tear of your joints not working as effectively as they could be with proper alignment.

Unfortunately, as people who tend to spend a lot of their day sitting at a desk, on a couch watching TV or playing video games, or while driving around, our bodies tend to hunch forward and curl inward. Without actively being aware of poor posture and working to maintain good posture while sitting and standing, you will probably slump and enforce poor posture habits.

Fortunately, it’s never too late to improve your posture and sit up straight. Posture wearables and posture reminder apps are a great way to help train yourself to sit up straight throughout the day. There are also many other ways to improve and maintain proper bone and muscle alignment.

Ways to Improve and Maintain Good Posture

  • Keep your weight down and exercise regularly. Extra weight around your midsection can pull on your back and make you slouch. By exercising regularly you keep your body flexible and strengthen your muscles, which helps to support good posture. Try gentle yoga poses to promote good posture.
  • Examine the way you work. If you sit at a desk all day, look at the way your work station is set up. Is your chair a proper height? Does it provide enough support for your back? Is your computer monitor at a comfortable reading level? Can you read things on your monitor without leaning forward? Do you need to make any adjustments? UCLA has a great guide to set up an ergonomic workstation that helps promote proper posture while working.
  • Get up and move frequently when sitting for more than an hour at a time. This allows you to stretch your muscles and work out any stiffness in your body. When you sit down again, it’s a great time to check it and adjust the way you’re sitting. Setting a reminder on your phone or using a fitness tracker with move reminders is a great way to remember to take these small breaks.
  • Use a back posture tracker or wearable to alert you throughout the day when your body starts to slump. This will help train you to sit properly. Consider posture wearables, like the Lumo Lift, which you can wear all day and get constant feedback to build better sitting and standing habits.
  • If you’re really having trouble breaking the habit, consider seeing an occupational therapist or chiropractor to help you do exercises to improve your posture. Yoga is also a great way to help improve your posture and flexibility.

Improve your posture through exercise with these yoga poses for better posture.

Gordini Stash Lite Touch Mitts

The Best Running Mittens to Keep Hands Warm

The Best Running Mittens to Keep Hands Warm

If you like to run outdoors and you live in a climate where winters are cold, you know the challenge of keeping your hands and fingers warm. Even when your blood is pumping in the middle of a good run, your extremities can still get cold when the outside air is chilly. Many people utilize running gloves to help protect their hands. While that may work for fall and warmer winter weather, when the temperature really drops your fingers can easily get cold and go numb on long runs. The natural solution to this problem is by wearing a pair of running mittens.

I know–a lot of people who haven’t worn mittens since their age reached double digits think, aren’t mittens for kids? No! In fact, mittens are the perfect solution to keep your hands warm during most cold-weather activities. By keeping your fingers together, mittens help trap your body heat to keep your hands warmer. Since there’s less fabric around your fingers, they also have less evaporative heat loss. They can also be layered with running gloves underneath to keep your hands even warmer when the temperatures are absolutely freezing.

While you could technically just wear any old pair of mittens while you run, if you’re looking for running mittens exclusively there are a few pairs you should consider. Made specifically for runners, they usually feature windbreaking fabric as well as sweat-wicking inner layers that help meet the needs of runners. We’ve gone through all the options and found the best running mittens available for your cold-weather running this season.

5 Best Running Mittens

Saucony Unisex Run Mitt

Saucony is well known for their running shoes and apparel, so it’s a natural fit that they make great running mittens. These run mitts are the perfect defense against freezing air, cold wind, and water. Made from polyester, the exterior is wind and waterproof, with fully taped scenes to keep the weather out. The lining is made of soft fleece which is super comfortable and helps wick away moisture while trapping your own body heat.

In addition to being warm and comfortable, these mittens include features made especially for runners. Fleece nose wipes on the thumb help combat runny noses. The striped pattern on the back of the mittens is reflective for greater visibility during early morning and evening runs. For more convenience, these mitts feature an extended cuff to keep your wrists warm and help with layering. They also include magnetic fasteners to keep your gloves together when you’re not wearing them. Made in a unisex design in two sizes, these are great running mittens for men or women.

Sizes: Small/Medium, Large/X-Large

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Carhartt Waterproof Mittens for Runners

Now these gloves are not made specifically for runners, but they have a lot of the features runners need, plus the quality you’d expect from Carhartt. Made for workers, they’re really built well to deal with sweat. The mitt’s lining features Carhartt’s FastDry technology which wicks away sweat so your hands don’t only stay warm but dry as well. The outer shell is waterproof to protect your hands against any wintry weather.

The fleece cuff features a wrist strap closure to keep these runners mittens securely on while you jog. The Carhartt logo on the back of the hand also doubles as a sweat or nose wipe. These gloves are advertised for men, but since they come in a variety of sizes and have a neutral design, they work great for women as well. They’re also a good option if you’re looking for mittens that will work for other sports like skiing. Handwash only.

Available colors: black, brown/black

Size: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large

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Gordini Stash Lite Touch Mitts

If you’re looking for a lightweight glove that will keep your fingers toasty warm while you run, the Lite Touch Mitts from Gordini is an excellent choice. The lightweight ripstop shell keeps your hands warm with the Insilk insulation, which features a hydrowick lining for breathability. These are a great alternative to fleece gloves if you find those make your hands too hot and sweaty. These mitts are also super easy to store, they fit into the STUFF pocket on the cuffs making them pocket-sized.

These gloves are not waterproof, but they are water-resistant. You’ll be ok running in the rain or snow, but they probably won’t do the job if you’re playing in the snow. The big bonus with these running mittens is that they’re touch screen compatible, which means you can use your phone or your touch screen running tracker without taking them off. The silicon grip palm helps you keep a good grip on your phone or your water bottle. Comes and men’s and women’s sizes.

Available colors: charcoal gray, black, neptune blue, rouge (women’s only), nightlife (men’s only)

Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large (men’s only)

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Outdoor Research Adrenaline Mitts

This is another warm and waterproof mitten set built for skiing, but perfect for running. Made for men and women, Outdoor Research built these gloves to keep hands warm and dry during a day on the slopes, so they’re more than enough to keep you warm during your daily jog. The waterproof nylon shell is also windproof. The cuff features a cinch gauntlet closure so your gloves stay on and stay warm.

If you’re running in extra cold weather, these running mittens give you enough room to add some hot hands or a glove liner for extra warmth. Since these are gloves meant for active folks, they’re great for running, skiing, cycling, and other outdoor activities.

Available colors: black

Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large

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Trailheads Convertible Runner Mittens

Not ready to fully commit to wearing mittens or looking for the best of both worlds? These running gloves that easily convert to mittens when you need extra warmth. The mitt top easily stuffs away in a hidden pocket so this pair can be comfortably worn as gloves. The mitt covering is wind and water-resistant for when the weather turns cold and nasty. The interior glove lining wicks away sweat to keep your hands warm and dry.

Some bonus features of these gloves include touchscreen compatible fabrics on the thumb and forefinger and magnetic fasteners to keep your gloves together when you’re not wearing them. The extended cuff keeps your wrists warm and makes layering with glove liners easy.

Available colors: black, black/coral

Sizes: Small/Medium, Medium/Large

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Need to stay connect when you run? Check out these touchscreen running gloves. If you have a hard time using your phone while wearing gloves, consider these convertible texting mittens.

Need more running gear? Keep hydrated with a water belt for runners or a hand held water bottle. Keep track of your running with a fitness tracker for runners.

Best Activity Tracker for Weight Loss

3 Best Activity Trackers for Weight Loss 2024

Best Activity Tracker for Weight Loss

Many people have jumped on the fitness tracker trend to help keep them motivated to live an active and healthy life. They’re often people who already have favorite workout activities and just need to find the perfect tracker for running, swimmings, or cycling. But you may be coming to fitness tracking with a different goal, one of general weight loss and healthiness. If you’re looking for the best activity tracker for weight loss, the search is a little more tricky.

Instead of just looking for something that looks cool and counts your steps, you’ll need a fitness tracker that has features to help you with your weight loss goals. We’ve considered all the options to find the best activity tracker for weight loss. Here are our recommendations.

Best Activity Tracker for Weight Loss

Apple Watch Series 7

Oh boy! There’s so much to say about Apple’s latest offering. The Apple Watch is the ultimate companion for anyone on a weight loss journey, but it comes with a hefty price tag. When my last fitness tracker died, I made the switch and I have not regretted it. If you’re an Apple user, it’s a no brainer to switch to the Apple Watch which becomes an extension of your iPhone, putting all your favorite apps, texts, calls, and fitness tracking right on your wrist. If you don’t own an iPhone, go ahead and skip to the next recommendation, because an Apple Watch won’t work for you.

If your focus is on weight loss, then the Apple Watch is perfectly designed to help you ramp up your new healthy lifestyle at a reasonable pace. With the built-in Activity app, your Watch becomes your personal fitness guru. You’re challenged to close three rings a day: 30 minutes of exercise, 12 stand hours, and then a personalized movie goal. You’ll get reminders throughout the day of your progress, with encouraging messages to help you close each one each day. As you hit milestones, you earn badges for streaks, records, and special events. Each month the app selects a personal goal based on your previous activity. You can go from sedentary to fully fit thanks to the Apple Watch’s easy guidance.

I’ve seen tons of success stories of people losing weight just by closing those three rings. One of the great things about the Apple Watch is no matter what activity you prefer, it can record that exercise. It’s waterproof for swimming, has detailed GPS tracking for runners, and wrist-based tracking for your yoga flow.

With all of this, the best part is the Apple Watch isn’t some utilitarian fitness tracker. It’s designed to be a gorgeous watch. You can change out the bands and the watch faces for millions of looks, so you’re styling at the office, a party, or in the gym. If you opt for the cellular version, you can leave your phone behind and have the complete freedom and protection you need no matter where you go.

Available colors: Silver, Gold, Blue, Midnight, Starlight, Green, Gold, Graphite, Space Black, Titanium, Red

Tracks: Everything! Heart rate, time standing, steps, calories burned, minutes meditated, blood oxygen level, sleep. Unlimited tracking options via third-party apps

Notable features: Waterproof, GPS, Cellular Option, Always on Display, 100s of custom bands, Customizable Watch Faces, Move Reminders, Exercise Tracking, Guided Meditations, iOS Apps, Wrist Based Heart Rate, ECG, Emergency SOS, Automatic Workout Detection, listen to music via Bluetooth

Pros:
Choice of GPS or Cellular
Tracks a Variety of Exercises
Closing Rings a Great Motivation for Weight Loss
100s of Apps
Waterproof

Cons:
Higher Price Tag Compared to Other Trackers
Must Have iPhone to Use
High Tech Screen Can Shatter with Direct Impact

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Fitbit Charge 5 GPS + Fitness Wristband

While any Fitbit is a great choice for losing weight because of the Fitbit Aria WiFi Smart Scale, we recommend the Blaze smart watch if you’re looking for the best activity tracker for weight loss. It has a ton of amazing features you can only find in a premium fitness watch.

Many fitness trackers are smartwatches with tons of features, bells, and whistles that can distract you from your goals. The Charge is a fully focused fitness and health tracker (with some bells and whistles thrown in) to help you meet your weight loss goals. It tracks 20 different exercise modes, giving you lots of options for your workouts. And SmartTrack automatically recognizes and records common workouts for you. The all-day activity tracker will also let you know your steps, distance, and calories burned, helping you to up your game on days when you’re more sedentary.

If you’re willing to pay for the premium membership, you can access the Daly Readiness, which is a personalized score that uses your exercise, sleep, and heart rate data to let you know if you’re ready for a workout or need a recovery day.

The health tracking features help you with your mind and body. The Stress Management Score lets you know how your body is responding to stress on a daily basis so you can manage your stress levels through exercise, mindfulness, and proper sleep. You can even log your mood to look for patterns and changes over time. Keep on top of your heart health with ECG, Oxygen Saturation Monitoring, and Heart Rate Variability Tracking.

Like many fitness bands, you can customize your bands to match your outfits and also receive call, text, and calendar alerts.

Available colors: Black/graphite stainless steel, lunar white/soft gold stainless steel, steel blue, platinum stainless steel (plus endless band options)

Tracks: steps, heart rate, GPS, distance, calories burned, active minutes, floors climbed, stationary time, auto sleep tracking, menstrual cycle

Notable features: interchangeable bands, PurePulse wrist-based heart rate, Cardio Fitness Score, silent alarms & auto sleep tracking, 7-day battery life, multi-sport modes, move reminders, SmartTrack auto activity tracking, OLED touchscreen with on-screen stats, guided breathing prompts based on heart rate, smartphone notifications, swimproof

Pros:
GPS means you can leave your phone at home
Store music for your run
7 day battery life

Cons:
No apps or smartwatch functionality

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Check out our Fitbit Comparison to discover all their current trackers.

Garmin Vivosmart 4 Fitness Tracker

Garmin is making some of the best activity trackers available on the market currently, but comparing prices and features, we recommend the Garmin Vivosmart for people who want to lose weight. It has plenty of features to help with weight loss and also has most of the features people look for when buying activity trackers.

The Garmin Vivosmart is an update to their original tracker which features wrist-based heart rate monitoring and pulse oximeter in addition to step counting and activity monitoring. It uses the heart rate information to more accurately calculate calories burned and the efficiency of your workout. The Vivosmart monitors your current activity level and then sets attainable daily goals, gradually moving you toward a healthier lifestyle. It also uses vibrations to remind you to keep moving throughout the day.

For workout tracking and motivation, it syncs with your smartphone and you can also create a MyFitnessPal account to help you compare calories consumed to calories burned so you can easily track and meet weight loss goals. If you want a smart scale to go with your fitness tracker, Garmin also makes the Garmin Index Smart Scale which will also sync directly to your account for accurate weight loss tracking.

Available colors: black, rose gold/gray band, gold/berry band, silver/azure band

Tracks: heart rate, calories burned, steps, distance, floors climbed, activity intensity & minutes, treadmill running, sleep monitoring (total sleep and quality), stress

Notable features: smart notifications (calls, texts, music, etc.), time display, move reminders, barometric altimeter, control music, daily goals, Garmin Connect community, 7 day battery life, waterproof 5 ATM

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Make sure you meet your weight loss goals by learning how to set goals you can achieve.

Still on the hunt for the perfect fitness tracker? Check out the most popular fitness trackers and the best fitness trackers under $100.

Best GPS Bike Computer for Cycling

Best GPS Bike Computer for Cycling

Best GPS Bike Computer for Cycling

If you’re a serious cyclist who wants the most accurate tracking with the most features, you probably want a GPS Bike Computer. In addition to the normal speedometer and odometer tracking, they feature GPS which provides precision tracking. The GPS uses satellite navigation (similar to what is used for a car GPS or GPS sports watch) to track your speed and the distance traveled, as well as the route you took, elevation, and other advanced tracking stats.

If you’re looking for the best bike computer to keep track of distance, speed, and other riding stats, check out the cycling computers below.

GPS Bike Computer for Cycling

Cateye Stealth 50 GPS Cycling Computer

Cateye Stealth 50 GPS Cycling ComputerOften buying a bicycle computer with GPS adds on significantly to the price. However, with the Stealth 50, you get the GPS tracking at an affordable price. Because it utilizes GPS for speed and distance tracking, you do not need to set up any sensors. Just power up and go. This makes the Cateye wireless cycling computer perfect for bikers who ride multiple bikes. You can go from street bike to mountain bike and back again easily without any sensors to move or calibrate.

Tracking is automatic and you can upload your data to CatEyeAtlas.com or TrainingPeaks to visualize your route, analyze performance, or even share your ride with your friends. If you want more than the basic tracking, this cyclocomputer is ANT+ compatible so you can pair it with a power meter, heart rate monitor, cadence sensor, or even a speed sensor. This makes a great base model to get started with your biking tracking. You can add on more sensors as needed and as your training progresses.

Tracks: speed (current, average, and maximum), distance, elapsed time

Notable features: GPS bike computer, ANT+ compatible, backlit, waterproof, uploadable data, USB rechargeable, 5 hour charge time, 10 hour operating time clock (12 hour or 24 hour)

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Polar M450 Computer with GPS for Bikes

Polar M450 Computer with GPS for BikesIf you’re looking for the best mountain bike computer with GPS, the Polar M450 is a strong contender. It tracks all the basics, plus includes real-time GPS tracking. It uses GPS to record your speed, distance, and route, all without sensors. In addition to that tracking, the M450 functions like a fitness tracker or smartwatch with advanced training modes. It tracks and compares the training load of different workouts and helps you balance it with recovery time. This allows you to adjust to the perfect training time for your body. Use the Orthostatic Test and Fitness test to track current fitness levels. After each ride, the computer will give you motivating feedback about the effect of your training session.

If you’re looking for a Bluetooth cycling computer, the Polar M450 is compatible with Polar Bluetooth Smart sensors for monitoring heart rate, speed, cadence, or power. Even if you use these add-ons, the Bluetooth connectivity means this will always be a wireless bike computer.

Amazon sells the M450 alone or bundled with the heart rate monitor.

Tracks: cycling speed, distance, route, heart rate (optional add-on)

Notable features: integrated cycling GPS, precision barometer, changeable color covers (sold separately), LED safety light, syncs to Polar Flow app and web, Strave connection, Bluetooth Smart sensor compatibility, Smart Coaching training guidance, Fitness Tests, 12 hour battery, rechargeable battery

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Garmin Edge 530 GPS Bike Computer with Cadence and Heart Rate

If you’re serious about cycling and want the most accurate, professional stats you can get, consider buying a Garmin Edge bike computer. In addition to GPS for bikes, it also features cadence and heart rate monitoring. It’s like a “smart cycling computer” or a smart watch for your bike. If you’re thinking about buying a smartwatch or fitness tracker for cycling, the Edge may have the features you’re looking for in a bicycle computer.

In addition to tracking the normal stats, the Edge also features training programs to help push you to meet exercise goals. Use Strava for ride challenges and live feedback during your ride. Or use any ANT+ indoor trainers and track your progress on the Garmin Edge. Unlike more cyclocomputers, the Garmin Edge has a color screen. Advanced features include smart notifications when paired with your phone, so you don’t miss a call or message while you’re riding. It’s also compatible with Garmin Connect and auto syncs data to your computer.

The Edge is a little bit pricier than most Bike GPS computers, but that’s because of all of the features it has. This model is one of the best Garmin bike computers.

Tracks: GPS (speed, distance), speed (sensor), cadence, heart rate, calories

Notable features: GPS cycling computer, color display, up to 15 hour battery life, waterproof, barometric altimeter, smart notifications, compatible with Vector, cadence sensor, heart rate monitor, Virtual Partner, Courses, Auto Pause, Auto Lap, Auto Scroll through data, advanced workouts, time/distance alert, interval training, temperature display, customizable screens, shock resistant, Garmin Connect, weather alerts

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Sigma Sport ROX 10.0 Basic GPS Bicycle Computer

Sigma Sport ROX 10.0 Basic GPS Bicycle ComputerIt has “basic” in the name, but the Sigma Sport ROX is much more than a basic bike speedometer. It comes with GPS navigation and tracking, as well as an elevation profile with ascents and descents tracking. That makes this perfect for serious cyclists on mountain bikes or commuters using a road bike.

The GPS receiver not only tracks your distance and speed but also provides route navigation. The display not only shows an illustration of the route, but also time and distance to destination, off-track alarm, and a wrong direction alarm. It includes Data Center planning and mapping software to map the perfect course for your bike training.

If you want to add more sensors and stats to the device, it is ANT+ wireless compatible for wireless speed, cadence, and heart rate transmitters.

Available colors: black, white

Tracks: elevation, distance, speed, route maps

Notable features: GPS cycling computer, rechargeable battery with micro USB cable, LCD display, altitude, temperature, lap counter, route navigation and guidance along saved routes, Data Center 3 mapping functionality, ANT+ wireless compatibility

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Bryton Rider 310 GPS Cycling Computer with Cadence

Bryton Rider 310 GPS Cycling Computer with CadenceIf you want a budget cycling computer with both GPS and cadence sensors, then the Bryton Rider 310 is a fantastic option. GPS for cycling and the cadence sensor are included, plus you can add on even more by buying a separate heart rate monitor. Because this bike computer uses GPS to track distance, you do not need to install a speed sensor (a cadence sensor will need to be installed).

This unit boasts 70 different functions, including lots of data tracking. If you’re looking for a mountain bike GPS computer, this model is perfect with a built-in barometer for measuring terrain. The screen is easy to read and can display different data points at once (which are customizable). It also includes Bryton Test, a preloaded cycling program to help you improve and train systematically. This is a Bluetooth cycling computer, which means you can upload your stats wirelessly to training sites like STRAVA and TrainingPeaks to compete with friends.

Tracks: GPS distance, speed, cadence, time, lap, calories, altitude, power

Notable features: GPS cycling computer, compatible with ANT+, 36 hour battery life, anti-glare display, backlight, uploadable stats via Bluetooth, waterproof, customizable screen, optional heart rate monitor, auto start/stop

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Still looking for the perfect way to track your cycling?

If biking is just one of many types of exercise you do to stay fit, consider a cycling activity trackers.

If biking is your main form of exercise, or you use a street bike to commute every day, you should consider a bicycle computer. For a basic option, check out speedometers and odometers. Advanced cyclists and those in training may want a bike computer with cadence.

Find the best phone mounts for cycling to use your smartphone for tracking and navigation.

Best Bike Computer with Cadence

Best Bike Computer with Cadence

While casual cyclists may be okay with a basic cycling computer, more serious riders want more information out of their cyclocomputer. Buying a bike computer with cadence is usually not a lot more money, but the amount of info they can provide is more than worth the price increase.

Cadence is the pedaling rate of the bike rider. It’s tracked by putting a sensor on the pedal to count the speed of rotation. Why does tracking cadence matter? Generally beginning cyclists can ride longer when using lower cadences. Cadence can increase as a cyclist improves and rides more. If you use bike riding as a form of exercise, a higher cadence means better blood flow to your muscles which reduces muscle strain. You can learn more about cadence and bike riding technique at bikeradar.com.

When shopping for a bike computer with cadence, you want to consider other features as well. All cycling computers will have speedometer and odometer metrics, but do you want temperature readings? What about a clock? Do you prefer a wireless or wired computer? Do you need backlighting for night riding? Do you want GPS?

Keep those preferences in mind as you check out the top picks for cycling computers with cadence.

Best Bike Computer with Cadence

Suaoki Wireless Bike Computer with Cadence

Suaoki offers a budget wireless bike computer that’s easy to use and gives you the statistics you want. The speed sensor not only records you current speed and analyzes it, it will also display whether you going faster or slower than your average speed to keep you motivated.

While it’s priced like a basic speedometer, the Suaoki comes with a cadence sensor to record the rate you’re pedaling. Additional features like a built-in stopwatch and a calorie counter, make this bike computer an excellent value. This cycling computer is easy to use, with 2 button operation or an auto-scan function that cycles through all your stats.

Tracks: speed (current, max, average), cadence RPM,

Notable features: cadence sensor, auto on/off, 2 button operation, stopwatch, calorie counter, scan function to cycle through stats

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Sigma Sport BC16.16 Cycling Computer with Cadence

The next budget option on our list is the Sigma Sport. It features 16 functions, including cadence. This computer will get you all the stats you need for an affordable price. Since the unit is waterproof and easy to install without tools, it’s perfect for mountain bikes or street bikes and using any season or weather.

The display shows two stats at once (your choice). You can also use the countdown timer and stopwatch to help track your cycling and plan your workout. The backlight means you can ride and read your stats early in the morning or at night. The Sigma Sport has a feature many budget bicycle computers lack: a microchip backup to save your stats and settings when you swap the batteries. There is also an optional USB docking station to transfer your data to a computer.

Tracks: current speed, average speed, maximum speed, trip distance, total distance, trip time, total time, stopwatch, countdown timer, cadence, average cadence, current and average speed comparison

Notable features: low battery indicator, memory chip storage and backup, downloadable stats, tool-free installation, waterproof, automatic stop/start, displays temperature, clock, backlight, 2 bike programmable

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Bryton Rider 320E GPS Cycling Computer with Cadence

If you really want your cycling computer to have GPS without breaking the bank, the Bryton Rider 310 is an excellent option. It not only has GPS but also includes an option with a Cadence sensor. You can upgrade even more and add a heart rate monitor as well. Because this bike computer uses GPS to track distance, you do not need to install a speed sensor (a cadence sensor will need to be installed).

This unit boasts 70 different functions, including lots of data tracking. This wireless cycling computer is perfect for mountain biking, with a built-in barometer for measuring terrain. The large, easy to read display allows for a display of 8 different data points at once and is completely customizable. It also includes Bryton Test, a preloaded cycling program to help you improve and train systematically. This is a Bluetooth cycling computer, which means you can upload your stats to training sites like STRAVA and Training Peaks to compete with friends.

Tracks: GPS distance, speed, cadence, time, lap, calories, altitude, power

Notable features: GPS cycling computer, compatible with ANT+, 36 hour battery life, anti-glare display, backlight, uploadable stats via Bluetooth, waterproof, customizable screen, optional heart rate monitor, auto start/stop

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CatEye Strada Wireless Cadence Bike Computer

This wireless bike computer from Cateye features a lot of advanced tracking that serious cyclists want. In addition to the advanced tracking, the cadence version also features the normal Strada stats and specs. The single button design makes it easy to switch through the seven data modes while riding. The innovative FlexTight bracket easily mounts to any handlebar or stem without any tools and is perfect for road bikes or mountain bikes.

Tracks: speed (current, average, maximum), cadence, elapsed time, trip distance, total distance

Notable features: wireless cycling computer, cadence sensor, low battery alarm, clock, pace arrow, auto power-saving, auto start/stop, dual tire size

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Garmin Edge 530 GPS Bike Computer with Cadence and Heart Rate

If you’re serious about cycling and want the most accurate, professional stats you can get, consider buying a Garmin Edge bike computer. It not only features cadence and heart rate monitoring, but is also a GPS cycling computer. I would even call it a “smart cycling computer”–it’s like a smartwatch for your bike. If you’re considering buying a smartwatch or fitness tracker for cycling, the Edge may have the features you’re looking for.

I addition to tracking the normal stats, the Edge also features training programs to help push you to meet exercise goals. Use Strava for ride challenges and live feedback during your ride. Or use any ANT+ indoor trainers and track your progress on the Garmin Edge. Unlike other devices on this list, the Garmin Edge has a color screen, and also features smart notifications when paired with your phone, so you don’t miss a call or message while you’re riding. It’s also compatible with Garmin Connect and auto syncs data to your computer.

Tracks: GPS (speed, distance), speed (sensor), cadence, heart rate, calories

Notable features: GPS cycling computer, color display, up to 15 hour battery life, waterproof, barometric altimeter, smart notifications, compatible with Vector, cadence sensor, heart rate monitor, Virtual Partner, Courses, Auto Pause, Auto Lap, Auto Scroll through data, advanced workouts, time/distance alert, interval training, temperature display, customizable screens, shock resistant, Garmin Connect, weather alerts

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Still looking for the perfect way to track your cycling? Check out the best basic bike computers or fitness trackers for cyclists.

Find the best phone mounts for cycling to use your smartphone for tracking and navigation.

Raniaco Wireless Bike Speedometer & Odometer

Best Speedometer & Odometer Cycling Computers

Best Speedometer and Odometer Cycling Computers

If you use a street bike or mountain bike for exercise or transportation, you’re probably interested in tracking things like speed or distance traveled. This is easy to do with a bicycle computer. There are a lot of cycling computers available, but the most basic ones usually are a cycling odometer or cycling speedometer (or both).

The bike computers on this list are budget options, which are a lot cheaper than many of the high-end cycling computers. Often the reason they’re so affordable is because they only offer basic features and exclude things like cadence or GPS. If you’re a casual biker or only use your bike to commute, these wireless bike computers should meet your needs.

If you’re more interested in tracking your fitness activity in addition to biking distance and speed, check out the best fitness trackers for cycling.

Basic and Budget Cycling Computers

SY Wireless Bike Speedometer & Odometer

This is one of the best cycling computers available for people looking for a cheap bike computer. At the time of this writing, it is the #1 bestselling bicycle computer on Amazon. This computer functions as both a speedometer and an odometer, with all the needed accessories and sensors for a wireless set up. It’s easy to use and perfect for casual bikers and regular riders.

The large numbers and the backlight mean you can read your stats easily, day or night. The LCD display means you can read it even in bright sunlight (unlike smartphones and other touch screens). The SY is also waterproof so you can easily take it off road or ride in the rain.

Tracks: speed, distance (total traffic mileage, single lane mileage), riding time, maximum driving speed, average driving speed

Notable features: wireless cycling computer, LCD display, waterproof, clock, auto on/off

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CatEye Velo 7 Wired Bicycle Computer

CatEye Velo 7 Wired Bicycle ComputerThis model from Cateye is perfect for casual riders or if you’re looking for an affordable cycle computer for casual riding or to hook up to a spin bike or stationary bicycle at home. Thie Velo 7 is a wired computer, which some cyclists don’t like. Generally the wired bike computers are easier to program and more reliable with their measurements. If you’re planning to use it for a stationary bike, it shouldn’t make a difference.

The Velo 7 is a cycling speedometer, recording current speed and calculating average speed and max speed. It also works as a cycling odometer, recording the trip distance and tracking your total distance. This is a great option for people who aren’t very tech savvy. The one button operation makes it easy to switch between modes. The tool free installation and a universal bracket that can attach to the stem or the handlebar make setting it up a snap.

Tracks: speedometer (current speed, average speed, maximum speed), trip distance, total distance

Notable features: wired cycling computer, auto start/stop, tool free installation, single button operation, clock, universal bracket (stem or handlebar)

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Outdoormaster Wireless Bike Computer

Outdoormaster Wireless Bike ComputerThe Outdoormaster cycling computer is another budget option that offers extra features some riders will love. In addition to the normal speedometer and odometer functions, this road bike computer displays the current temperature and also the time (12 hour or 24 hour format) and has a low battery indicator so it won’t suddenly die on you.

This bicycle computer is waterproof so it’s perfect for road bikes or mountain bikes and great for serious cyclists. The backlight means you can use it day or night without issue. Since this is a wireless bicycle computer, you won’t need to worry about any extra wires getting in the way or interferring with your bike riding.

Tracks: speed (current, average, maximum, relative), trip distance, riding time,

Notable features: wireless bike computer, waterproof, backlit, temperature, clock, low battery indicator, odometer, auto on/off, 1 year battery life

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Sigma Sport BC5.12 Wired Bicycle Computer

Sigma Sport BC5.12 Wired Bicycle ComputerThe aim of the Sigma Sport is to be an easy to use, classic bike computer through simplicity. It has straightforward one button operations and is straight forward and simple to install. It easily attaches and detaches from its mount. With five functions (including speed and distance recording), this computer for cyclists is a great basic and affordable option.

One feature this budget cycling computer has that the other cheap options miss is the ability to download your stats to your computer so you can keep track of them long term. The Sigma Sport is also waterproof, which makes it a better choice than the Velo 7 if you want it for a road bicycle or mountain bike.

Tracks: speed, distance, total distance, ride time

Notable features: wired bike computer, USB docking station for downloadable stats, easy use single button design, automatic stop/start, tool free installation, waterproof, clock

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Planet Bike Protege 9.0 Cycling Computer

Planet Bike Protege 9.0 Cycling ComputerIf you’re in the market for a simple bicycle computer that’s still affordable but has more options than the basics, Protege from Planet Bike is a great option. It has 9 functions and is available in 2 colors to choose from as either a wireless or wired version. The biggest feature most bikers will enjoy is that it has a four line display, meaning you can get all your stats with one glance instead of needing to press a button to cycle through them. It also has time display and temperature available at a glance.

This bicycle computer works as a speedometer and a dual odometer (for two wheel sizes). It displays your current speed, the ride time, and ride distance in one glance, and can also calculate your average speed. The Protege 9.0 is weatherproof and is a great option for mountain bikes, road bikes, or indoor stationary bikes with front wheels.

Available colors: black (wireless), white (wired)

Tracks: current speed, ride time, average speed, trip distance,

Notable features: wireless or wired cycling computer, clock, thermometer, LCD display, weatherproof, dual odometer, manual stop/start

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What is a bike computer?

Computers for cyclists go by many names, including bicycle computer, cycling computer, or even cyclocomputer. The exact functions vary depending on the model, but the most basic bike computers function as a speedometer and an odometer.

Speedometers measure the bike’s speed. Many bike computers will track not only the current speed but will also give you speed averages and the maximum speed hit turning a trip.

Odometers record the distance traveled. Most of the best cycling computers will not only provide you with the distance traveled during a specific trip but will also store total distance traveled.

If you buy a more advanced bike computer it may have features like time display, backlighting for night riding, cadence sensors, heart rate, power output, GPS tracking, or the ability to upload your stats to a computer or smartphone for advanced tracking.

Cycling computers are considered essential technology for people who bike for fitness or commute primarily using a street bike. Casual bikers also enjoy them because they like to see stats of their rides and their progress.

People who only use cycling as one form of exercise may be more interested in using a cycling activity tracker that can track all forms of fitness like steps, swimming, running, etc.

How do cycling computers work?

Basic cycling computers (like the ones that function as odometers and speedometers) usually come with a display that attaches to the handlebars of the bike and a sensor that attaches to the front wheel. The bicycle computer will either be wired (which means it will be more accurate and consistent though you’ll have to deal with a cumbersome wire) or wireless (which makes riding your bike with the computer attached easier, but set-up can be more difficult and the computer’s readings may not be as accurate.

Magnetic Sensor Cycling ComputersA non-GPS bike computer used magnetic sensors to record speed and distance information. A magnet is attached to the wheel spoke and a sensor is attached to the front fork. The sensor measures every time the magnet passes it to compute speed and distance. In order to record accurate statistics, you will have to set up the cycling computer with information about your bike, including wheel size.

Most bike speedometers come with mounting brackets that are easy to install and will not require tools. Some may require the use of a screwdriver to install the mount. Generally, they are simple to install and setup for most tech savvy people.

Find the best phone mounts for cycling to use your smartphone for tracking and navigation.


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