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Best pedometers of 2025, tested and reviewed
Bump up your step count and track your daily movement with these handy tools starting at just $25.
Need a nudge to move more? The best pedometer can be your pocket-sized coach and cheerleader, making every step count. Research shows that simply wearing one of these gadgets motivates people to take more steps each day — no New Year’s resolution required.
Whether you’re aiming for 10,000 steps (a lofty goal) or just trying to outpace yesterday’s total, a pedometer can magically transform casual strolls into an opportunity to develop lifelong healthy habits. From tracking distance and calories burned to syncing with apps for deeper insights, today’s best pedometers keep you focused and on track. They range from sleek and simple to feature-packed and tech-savvy, offering options for every lifestyle and price point.
Finding your perfect match isn’t just about the fanciest features. “The best step counter depends on your specific needs and budget, whether you’re a casual walker, an athlete or someone looking for a comprehensive health and fitness tracking solution,” says Nicholas Randall Voorhees, a certified personal trainer. You’ll also want to consider factors like ease of use, battery life, features and overall value.
To find the top performers, we researched and tested 13 pedometers and smartwatches and spoke with three experts, using the experts’ feedback to guide our testing process. After logging countless steps (well, technically they weren’t countless — they were all tracked and monitored, and trust us, it was a lot), we narrowed the field and selected our winners. Here are our picks for the best pedometers for 2025.
Best overall pedometer
Garmin
Style: Wristband | Battery life: 2 weeks, but less in GPS mode | Water-resistant: Yes | Heart-rate tracking: Yes | Additional features: Running-specific data
The Garmin Forerunner 55 is way more than just a step counter. It ranks as our best pedometer thanks to delivering advanced fitness tracking in a sleek package, combining exceptional accuracy and comprehensive tracking features along with a top-of-class battery life.
“The Forerunner excels at tracking a wide range of activities, including running, cycling, swimming and even stress levels,” says Voorhees. It also monitors distance, pace and goals, giving runners detailed performance insights.
Advanced features like heart rate variability, VO2 max and recovery metrics make it ideal for serious athletes.
Another perk for folks who like to go the distance: The Forerunner easily holds the title of “best battery life” too, since it outperformed all other tested smartwatches. “That’s a huge plus for outdoor adventurers and athletes who need reliable data over long periods,” says Voorhees.
Built with premium materials like fiber-reinforced polymer, this durable tracker should stand up to heavy use. However, it has a few drawbacks.
One Amazon reviewer wrote: “The screen is not the brightest (but that helps with battery life) and the menus are a little tricky to navigate (at first).” It’s true. There’s definitely a learning curve to mastering the Forerunner’s numerous settings and features, the advanced capabilities justify the effort.
If you’re less tech-savvy or prefer something simpler, a basic pedometer might be a better fit. But for athletes wanting GPS and other high-tech features, this device delivers exceptional value.
- Great for athletes
- Strong battery life
- Durable
- Complicated setup
- Dim screen
More pedometers we like for 2025
Style: Clip-on | Battery life: 12 months or more | Water-resistant: No | Heart-rate tracking: No | Additional features: Calories burned
Sometimes you just want to count your steps — and that’s where Omron’s Walking Style IV Pedometer comes in. This budget-friendly, clip-on step counter does just that, requiring no expensive smartwatch to navigate. Its straightforward interface and clear display make it perfect for casual walking and daily activities. Plus, it comes with a lithium ion battery that can last longer than a year before it needs to be replaced, so you don’t have to worry about charging your pedometer between uses.
Physical therapist Sandra Gail Frayna, founder of Hudson Premier Physical Therapy & Sports, loves that the Omron is lightweight and remains accurate whether worn as a clip-on or stowed in your front pocket. Plus, it stores a week’s worth of fitness data, including steps, distance and calories burned.
“Works great!” raves one Amazon reviewer. “I had a battery last 15 months with daily use. I usually wear it all day to not miss a step. Accuracy is good if you get your stride length correct. Better than GPS apps… Unlike previous models, you don’t have to reenter your data (height, weight, stride and the time) when you change a battery.”
While not ideal for intense workouts and while it doesn’t offer advanced features, at this price point, it’s a solid choice for basic step tracking.
- Affordable
- Easy setup
- Intuitive navigation
- Lacks advanced features
Style: Clip-on or lanyard | Battery life: 12 months | Water-resistant: No | Heart-rate tracking: No | Additional features: No
The 3DFitBud Simple Step Counter proves that basic isn’t a bad word. This lightweight and budget-friendly (about $25) pedometer offers straightforward step counting with remarkable accuracy, featuring a large, easy-to-read display that’s visible even in squinty sunlight. Its single-button operation makes it practically foolproof — perfect for users of any age who want simplicity — not bells and whistles.
“With 97.3% accuracy, this pedometer is budget-friendly and easy for anyone of any age to use,” says Frayna.
While it doesn’t track calories, heart rate or store historical data, that’s precisely what makes it appealing for users seeking a pure step counter.
- Affordable
- Intuitive navigation
- No need to charge
- Lacks advanced features
Style: Wristband | Battery life: About one day, depending on usage | Water-resistant: Yes | Heart-rate tracking: Yes | Additional features: Apple connectivity, advanced health insights
For iPhone users, the Apple Watch stands out as the Best All-Around Pedometer, blending fitness tracking with additional smart features. “It’s very practical and compatible with other Apple products. Plus, it includes GPS, calorie tracking and [push notifications] on your progress,” says Frayna.
The watch monitors advanced health metrics like heart rate, ECG, blood oxygen levels and more. “The watch seamlessly integrates with iPhone for notifications, calls and fitness data,” says Voorhees. This makes it especially valuable for existing smartwatch users looking to expand their health tracking.
The main drawbacks are price and battery life. Like an iPhone, it requires daily charging, especially with active use of GPS or continuous heart rate monitoring.
One enthusiastic Amazon reviewer raves: “This watch is nothing short of awesome. The Apple Watch 10 takes wearable tech to a whole new level, and I can confidently say it has boosted my quality of life at least threefold.”
- Numerous features
- Expansive fitness tracking
- Great integration for iPhone users
- Short battery life
- Expensive
Style: Wristband | Battery life: About one day | Water-resistant: Yes | Heart-rate tracking: Yes | Additional features: Contactless payments, ECG, sleep tracker, workout memory
Named our best smartwatch pedometer for those who have an Android phone, the Google Pixel Watch shines as the ideal companion. This versatile device covers all the fitness basics. It tracks your steps, heart rate and sleep patterns, and Voorhees highlights its seamless integration with the Google Fit app for comprehensive health monitoring.
The Google Pixel Watch also stands out for its advanced features like fall detection, emergency SOS and built-in GPS that accurately tracks your running or walking routes so you don’t have to carry your phone.
Another big bonus: Its bright display and responsive touch screen, which makes navigation intuitive. Hands-free voice commands make it easy to start and stop workouts — or check your heart rate mid-exercise — without breaking your stride.
Beyond A+ functionality, this step counter boasts a sleek, modern design, to boot.
One Amazon reviewer raves: “It looks fantastic, sleek and thin. It’s a beautiful expression of technology and styling.” They continue, “It does everything I need it to do, and it does it well. I’m running the cardio monitor to detect a-fib, so the battery life is pretty short. It’s a small price to pay for a good cardiac monitor. If I have to charge it every day, it’s all good. I love the screen, and the fact that I can read and respond to text messages and email by voice, very cool.”
- Sleek, comfortable design
- Great tracking options
- Good integration for Google users
- Limited battery life
- Less tailored for athletic performance
Style: Wristband | Battery life: One week | Water-resistant: Yes | Heart-rate tracking: Yes | Additional features: ECG, GPS, contactless payments
Who says fitness tracking has to be complicated? The Fitbit Charge 6 proves that simpler can be smarter, making it our top pick for older adults. With clear displays, intuitive interface, straightforward controls and seamless data syncing, it delivers the essentials without unnecessary fuss. In fact, the Fitbit Charge might just be the best step tracker. Studies show the Charge consistently has high marks in step-counting accuracy.
“The Fitbit app provides clear insights into activity, sleep, heart rate and more, with the added benefit of a supportive community,” Voorhees says. (The Fitbit Community platform lets users share tips, troubleshoot together and connect with others on similar wellness journeys.)
But don’t just take our word for it. One happy Amazon reviewer wrote this about their Charge 6: “Easy to use and comfortable to wear … unobtrusive, lightweight … its fitness tracking is intuitive and it actually tracks your sleep and O2, as well as heart rate and walking distance and time, running distance, weight lifting. I’m very happy with this purchase.”
Bottom line: The Charge 6 is a reliable fitness tracker that covers all the essentials (plus some), making it a practical, smart choice for anyone looking to stay active and informed about their health.
- Easy to use
- Affordable for a band with some smart features
- Comparably basic features
- Limited battery life
Style: Wristband | Battery life: About 30 hours | Water-resistant: Yes | Heart-rate tracking: Yes | Additional features: Sleep data
If you’re training for a race or consider yourself a serious athlete, you need something more advanced than a simple step counter. Enter: the POLAR Ignite 3, our top pedometer choice for athletes. It’s GPS-enabled and packed with advanced workout metrics, making it ideal for runners, cyclists and anyone serious about fitness. Plus, it’s user friendly.
While not the most fashion-forward option, it’s comfortable enough to wear all day — from workouts to sleep.
“Polar is known for its heart rate monitoring accuracy and fitness tracking, making it a great choice for athletes — or anyone interested in detailed performance tracking, like recovery scores and training load,” says Voorhees.
What sets the Ignite 3 apart is its personalized training recommendations, which adapt to your performance. Combined with recovery scores and training load insights, it’s like having a personal coach on your wrist.
One reviewer who has tried most of the fitness trackers on the market calls the Polar Ignite 3 the “best fitness tracker,” adding that it’s “fast to charge, easy to link to mobile and other devices. Good bright back light and comfortable to wear.”
- Good for tracking health data, such as heart rate
- Tons of fitness data
- Not particularly stylish
Factors to consider when buying a pedometer
The best pedometer should provide the features that match your needs — whether that’s simple step counting or advanced activity tracking to keep you motivated, to monitor progress and to achieve your health and fitness goals. Here are the key considerations to keep in mind before making your pick:
Accuracy
“Pedometers that use 3D or multi-axis sensors tend to be more accurate than simpler devices,” says Voorhees. That’s important to keep in mind, since misleading data can affect how you track progress and set goals.
Display
A user-friendly display means you can quickly glance at your data and stay motivated without fumbling with buttons or digging into your mobile app. “It’s especially helpful when you’re on the move,” says Frayna.
Features
Common features include step, distance and calorie tracking, with more advanced capabilities like heart rate monitoring and GPS tracking usually accompanying models that sync with your smartphone or an app. While extra features add value to your device, you might not need them all, as they can bump up cost and complexity.
Battery life
Some batteries hold a charge for a few days to several months, while others rely on replaceable batteries. “Ideally, you should look for one with at least a few days of battery life or more to avoid constant charging,” says Voorhees. A pedometer with longer battery life will help ensure you can track your activity without interruption.
Style
Clip-ons, rings, wrist-worn devices and more — pedometers come in various styles. Choose one based on your comfort and typical activities. For example, a ring-style tracker might interfere with weight lifting. “A clip-on pedometer may not always be accurate if it swings or falls off, while wristbands — which stay on your body — can provide continuous tracking,” explains Voorhees.
Water resistance
While some pedometers are strictly for dry environments, many offer varying degrees of water resistance. Basic water-resistant models can handle sweat and rain, while more rugged devices can withstand swimming and intense workouts. If you’re active outdoors or in humid conditions, consider a device with appropriate water resistance.
Data storage and analysis
Many pedometers store your data for later analysis, allowing you to monitor trends and adjust your goals accordingly. “Some will sync with apps or websites to track long-term progress and generate reports on steps, calories burned and distance traveled. If you want to track your progress over time, data storage and analysis features are vital,” explains Voorhees.
Price
Very basic pedometers start around $20, while advanced fitness trackers can cost $100 to $300. “Decide on your budget, then look for a device that offers the best features within that range,” says Voorhees. “Higher-priced models often include extra features like heart-rate monitoring or GPS, but if you’re just looking for basic step tracking, a budget model may be sufficient.”
How we chose
We tested 13 pedometers and smartwatches to determine the best options for 2025, consulting with three industry experts throughout our evaluation process. Each device was assessed in real-world conditions for accuracy, battery life, features and overall value. Our testing included daily walks, gym sessions and simply running errands to ensure these pedometers perform reliably across different scenarios and meet diverse needs and budgets.
FAQs
How accurate are pedometers?
Experts note that pedometers are fairly accurate at step-counting, but their precision depends on the type of device used, sensor quality, your activity and how you wear it. For instance, studies have found that a waist-worn pedometer can miss steps when you walk slowly. Other devices may overcount “due to movement unrelated to walking, such as arm swings,” says Frayna. For the most accurate step counter, secure your wrist-worn pedometer firmly on your nondominant hand. For clip-on devices, avoid carrying it in your hand or using it with a walking aid.
Can a pedometer help me lose weight?
It might! A study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine shows step-tracking devices can help people lose between 6 to 10 pounds on average. The key to success, note researchers, is using your pedometer consistently — ideally for three months or longer, using it to set realistic movement goals. Combining your step counting with healthy eating habits or professional guidance can boost your results even further. “Some pedometers include calorie tracking as well, which can also help keep track of weight loss goals,” explains Frayna.
What are the benefits of tracking my steps, and how many steps should I aim to take daily?
Research shows walking up to 10,000 steps daily can reduce your risk of heart disease and dementia — plus lower your chances of developing 13 types of cancer. In fact, benefits of walking start at even lower daily step thresholds — around 4,000 steps per day — with every additional 2,000 steps you take daily potentially helping curb your risk of premature death by 8 to 11%. While a pedometer, of course, can’t take those steps for you, it can track your vital daily movement, keeping you accountable and motivated.
Do I need a pedometer if I have a smartphone?
Not necessarily. Many smartphones include built-in step tracking, eliminating the need for an additional device. While both options work well, smartphones and wearables can complement each other, depending on your tracking preferences and fitness goals.
Can I use a pedometer for activities other than walking?
While traditional pedometers are designed specifically for counting steps, modern fitness trackers offer expanded features “for everything from simple things like running or strength training to specific sports like basketball or pickleball,” as Zack Dzingle, a personal trainer at Bay Club in Portland, Ore., explains. Consider your exercise routine when choosing between a basic pedometer or a more versatile tracker.
What is the difference between a pedometer and an activity tracker?
A pedometer is primarily designed to count steps, offering a straightforward way to monitor daily movement. Meanwhile, an activity tracker counts steps and provides advanced features, including sleep monitoring, heart-rate tracking, workout analysis and more comprehensive fitness data. The choice between the two depends on the level of detail and functionality you’re looking for.
Other products we tested
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Oura Ring Gen3 Heritage: The Oura ring excels at sleep and recovery tracking, while offering basic fitness features. Though it does count steps, limitations like phone-dependent GPS, no display and manual data entry for some activities make it less ideal for fitness-focused users.
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Pyle Sports Pedometer: While this classic clip-on pedometer adequately tracks steps, distance and calories, its 2013 manufacture date makes newer options a better choice for most users.
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TicWatch Atlas Smartwatch: This pricey smartwatch (around $270) is loaded with unique features, including over 110 professional workout modes powered by advanced AI algorithms. While an excellent pick for sports enthusiasts, it’s overkill for the average user.
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Realalt 3DTriSport Walking 3D Pedometer: While Frayna notes that “it has high-end technology that will make for reliable data tracking,” its lack of app connectivity makes progress monitoring difficult, and some users report tricky setup.
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Amazfit Band 7 Fitness & Activity Tracker: This budget-friendly device offers solid data tracking and a free companion app, which Frayna loves, but its older software can cause syncing issues.
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Bellabeat Ivy+: Designed to resemble a piece of jewelry, this tracker seamlessly blends fashion with function, delivering accurate tracking for everything from stress levels and menstrual cycles to steps and overall fitness. The downside? It’s pricey ($380) and may feel bulky on smaller wrists,
Meet our experts
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Zack Dzingle, personal trainer and assistant general manager of fitness at Bay Club in Portland, Ore.
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Sandra Gail Frayna, physical therapist and founder of Hudson Premier Physical Therapy & Sports
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Nicholas Randall Voorhees, a certified personal trainer and owner of Nicholas Randall Fitness in Allendale, N.J.
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.