Activity Trackers - Best in Test 2026! Top 10 Activity Trackers | Hardworkout Magazine

Key takeaways

- The Xiaomi Smart Band 10 is the budget pick at 599 kroner, offering up to 21 days of battery life and a full score for value for money, but no built-in GPS and no contactless payment.

- None of the products in this test have been physically tested; the ranking is based on specifications, manufacturer information, external tests, customer feedback and price.

- Each tracker is scored on five weighted criteria: activity and health measurement (30 points), features (25), comfort and build quality (20), battery life (15) and value for money (10).

- An activity tracker suits people who want an overview of steps, heart rate, sleep and daily activity, while a heart rate monitor is the better choice when training is the main focus.

Looking for a new activity tracker? We have gathered some of the best activity trackers/activity bands on the market in 2026 and evaluated them based on features, battery life, user-friendliness, and value for money.

Why choose an activity tracker instead of a fitness watch?

For many, an activity tracker is a better choice than a fitness watch. You get the essential features to keep track of activity, training, and health, while the band is lightweight, comfortable, and easy to use.

Further down in the article, you can read more about how we have evaluated the products and what you should consider before making a purchase.

Activity Tracker - Best in Test 2026! Top 10 Activity Trackers

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Have the activity trackers been physically tested?

The products in this list have not been physically tested by us, and the evaluation is based on the product's characteristics and features, external tests, customer feedback, and price.

You can read more about the criteria for the test further down in the article.

PS: Prices and selection may vary from day to day. The prices we provide are recommended prices. Online stores often have good offers, and the products may be on sale at a lower price than what is stated here.

We always strive to keep the list updated with products that are in stock. Where there are multiple alternative prices, we link to several stores.

- Best in Test: [Fitbit Charge 6](https://hardworkout.no/Fitbit-Charge-6)

- Best Budget Model: [Xiaomi Smart Band 10](https://hardworkout.no/Xiaomi-Smart-Band-10)

How are the activity trackers scored in this test?

The products have not been physically tested by us and are therefore assessed based on specifications, manufacturer information, and user feedback.

Activity and Health Measurement (30)

How accurately the activity tracker records steps, heart rate, sleep, calorie expenditure, and other health functions such as SpO₂, stress, and ECG where available.

Features (25)

The range of workout and smart features, such as workout modes, automatic activity tracking, built-in GPS, contactless payment, notifications, and other useful functions.

Comfort and Build Quality (20)

How comfortable the activity tracker is to wear throughout the day and night, as well as the quality of materials, display, controls, and overall build quality.

Battery Life (15)

Battery capacity under normal use, use with GPS where applicable, as well as how quickly the activity tracker charges.

Price and Value for Money (10)

How much functionality, quality, and performance you get relative to the price compared to similar activity trackers.

Activity Tracker or Heart Rate Monitor – What Should You Choose?

Before you buy an activity tracker, it's wise to think about what you actually need. An activity tracker is well-suited for those who want an overview of steps, heart rate, sleep, and daily activity.

If you train several times a week and want more detailed training data, a heart rate monitor may be a better choice.

Many of today's activity trackers have features that were previously reserved for heart rate monitors, such as built-in GPS, automatic workout tracking, and contactless payment. Nevertheless, they are primarily developed for simple activity and health tracking.

A heart rate monitor usually has more training profiles, more advanced analyses of training and recovery, as well as better support for running, cycling, and other sports.

An activity tracker is therefore best suited for those who want to be more active in everyday life, while a heart rate monitor is a better choice if training is the main focus.

How does the design of an activity tracker differ from a watch?

Activity trackers are comfortable, small, and discreet, making them suitable for those who do not want a large watch on their wrist.

Most models have interchangeable bands, allowing you to easily change the appearance or switch to a band that better suits training or everyday use.

How long does the battery last on an activity tracker?

Battery life varies from model to model.

The simplest activity trackers can often be used for up to two weeks or more between charges, while models with larger screens, built-in GPS, and more features typically need to be charged more frequently.

The vast majority of activity trackers have a rechargeable battery that is easily charged with the included charging cable.

GPS – built-in or via connected smartphone?

Many affordable activity trackers use the GPS signal from the connected smartphone when you log a workout. This works well if you always have your phone with you.

Models with built-in GPS can record distance, speed, and route without the phone being nearby. This provides greater freedom and often more accurate measurements during running, cycling, and walking.

Can you pay directly from an activity tracker?

Some activity trackers support contactless payment, allowing you to pay directly from your wrist without taking out your mobile or wallet.

Which payment services are supported varies between manufacturers, and the same applies to which banks are compatible.

What should you consider before buying an activity tracker?

Before deciding on an activity tracker, it may be wise to consider the following:

- What will you primarily use the activity tracker for?

- Is built-in GPS important, or is it sufficient to use your mobile's GPS?

- How important is battery life?

- What health and activity features do you want?

- Do you want to be able to pay directly from your wrist?

- Is comfort and size important if the activity tracker is to be worn all day?

- How much do you want to spend?