Just like a camera, the best pedometer is the one you always have with you. Pedometers can provide step count data and calculate key metrics like total distance traveled and calories. They come in a variety of styles to wear on your wrist, neck, or clipped to clothing. For the most accurate step count, wear a pedometer close to your body. A slim, lightweight pedometer is the most comfortable. Choose a water-resistant or waterproof model if you plan to wear it while swimming or bathing.
The job of the simplest pedometer is to count your steps — full stop. Simple pedometers that provide only step data are fairly inexpensive, and they count steps by detecting movement. Pricier models are more durable and have elaborate features like automatic activity recognition and the ability to record steps with different stride lengths. Some also calculate calories and distance based on weight and stride length that you can program into the device. GPS models are more expensive and measure distance outdoors using satellite information.
Since pedometers come in various shapes, styles, sizes, and formats, look for features that are meaningful to you. And if a pedometer isn’t quite going to do it for you, be sure to check out our roundup of fitness trackers.
3DTriSport Walking 3D Pedometer
If accuracy is important to you, check out this pedometer. It employs 3D Tri-Axis Sensor technology for super-accurate tracking of daily activity levels for all age groups, aided by a large, clear display, clock, and step goal. It records your walking and running steps, distance, calories burned, and exercise times, storing up to 30 days of records. The 3DTriSport Walking 3D Pedometer is easy to set up and does not require Bluetooth, app downloads, or a smartphone connection. You can wear it clipped to your waist or around your neck (lanyard included), or place it in a pocket or bag.
iGank Simple Walking Pedometer Step Counter
The iGank is one of the easiest trackers available. Not only does it use a professional 3D Tri-Axis sensor to track your daily activities, but its one-button mechanism tracks only your steps without complex settings or Bluetooth. Just start walking, and the iGank Simple Walking Pedometer does the tracking. It has a convenient carabiner design in an assortment of colors that hooks onto a belt loop or sits in your pocket or backpack. The included CR2032 battery lasts up to 12 months.
Fitbit Zip Wireless Activity Tracker
Fitbit, one of the most famous names in mobile fitness, has many varieties of pedometer, and its wireless activity tracker is among the most popular devices available to track steps, distance, and calories. Use it to set goals, view progress, and earn badges. The Fitbit Zip Wireless Activity Tracker syncs with your computer or, via a free iOS or Android app, to smartphones or tablets and to your Fitbit account. Share your results and compete with friends as you build strength and stamina. Not crazy about Fitbits? No problem. Have a look at our roundup of Fitbit alternatives.
3DFitBud 3D Pedometer
If you don’t need anything too elaborate and just want to keep track of your steps, this 3D pedometer has your name on it. For steps only, it’s ready to use right away and is great for both kids and adults who seek to stay motivated toward their fitness goals. The 3DFitBud 3D Pedometer counts your steps so you can view your progress with a full-screen display that lets you clearly and easily read the numbers at a glance. Just press the button and the advanced 3D tri-axis sensor technology accurately reads steps from any position — up, down, sideways, or at any angle. The pedometer auto-sleeps when you are not moving and automatically wakes and counts steps when you resume activity.
Omron Tri-Axis Pedometer
This device lets you put a little variety into your step. With four activity modes, you can track regular steps, aerobic steps, distance, and calories burned with an automatic setup each day. The Omron Tri-Axis Pedometer’s tri-axis technology counts steps accurately regardless of where it is positioned and stores up to seven days of information.
Bellabeat Leaf Health Tracker
These days, some pedometers look like fashionable, modern jewelry you can blend into your style around your wrist or neck. Bellabeat Leaf products, designed with healing crystals, are worn close to the body like other pedometers but look more stylish than practical. The Bellabeat Leaf can track your stress, reproductive health, sleep patterns, calories burned, distance moved, and steps to assist in creating a holistic mind-body balance. There is no charging needed, as the 24-hour tracker includes a battery that will last for six months. Available in various patterns, you can sync Bellabeat Leaf products with Android mobile and iOS.
Xiaomi Mi Band 3 Smart Bracelet
The Mi Band 3 fitness bracelet is ideal if you’re looking to record activity levels such as sleep, active minutes, calories burned, pace, distance, and steps. This versatile instrument tracks light or deep sleep, heart rate, and even the three-day weather forecast. The device features 5ATM water resistance that works well up to 5 meters underwater — so no worries about surfing, swimming, rain, washing, and showers. You can modify features to receive data on distance measurements, statistical analysis, speed calculation, pace tracking, and real-time heart rate monitoring in the sports mode. From there, you can opt to collect and compare stats at a daily, weekly, or monthly rate in the MiFit app for iOS or Android— which handles data syncing. The bracelet features an OLED display that vibrates for alerts, calls, messages, and social media notifications.
OZO Fitness CS1
This 3D activity tracker is easy for anyone to use, and it’s ready for action straight from the box. The budget-friendly CS1 only tracks steps, but it’s perfect for motivating people to get their bodies moving and exercise more. The tracker does not rely on computers or Bluetooth, so it won’t sync with your devices, so you decide when to set your step tracker back to zero. The OZO Fitness CS1 is designed to be carried in your pocket, backpack, or purse while you’re on the move. You could also wear it on a lanyard around your neck for accurate street tracking. Its full-screen display makes it easy to check your step number with a glance. The product also has its own energy-saving feature, as the auto-dimming tool decreases power usage when you aren’t moving. Once you get shaking again, the pedometer detects your movements and logs your steps.
