We Tested the Best Smart Scales to Help You Track Progress and Stay Motivated

Smart Scales We Also Tested

We've tested 20 smart scales, but only 14 impressed us enough to earn a spot on our final list of recommendations. These scales didn't quite make the cut, although they do have some notable features.

• Sportneer's Smart Scale is intuitive, easy to use, and pretty precise. But the weight-to-height ratio it recommends is on the lower side compared to what is considered healthy, which could be triggering for some users.
• Wyze's Scale X was ready to go right out of the box, and we like how easy it is to use. But we didn't feel it was precise or accurate enough to be included in our list.
• QardioBase's X WiFi Smart Scale has a great display and stores a lot of data, but we don't think it's worth the money because it was inaccurate and inconsistent during testing.

What to Look for When Shopping for Smart Scales

• Fitness App Compatibility: Many smart scales come with their own weight-tracking apps. But if you already use a third-party app that you love, look for a scale that's compatible so you don't lose your data.
• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Connectivity: Bluetooth smart scales require you to have your smartphone within range to successfully log your metrics. Wi-Fi-enabled smart scales tend to be more reliable and easier to use, as Bluetooth can be unpredictable. Some scales have both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, for integrating Amazon Alexa or Google Home.
• Metrics: Most smart scales track so much more than just your weight. Choose a scale that tracks data points that are important to you, whether that's your body mass index (BMI), muscle mass, body fat percentage, bone mass, or another statistic.
• Weight Capacity: All scales have a maximum weight capacity. Before purchasing, ensure your scale can hold the weight of everyone who will use it.
• Data Storage: One of the biggest perks of choosing a smart scale over a standard scale is the ability to record your metrics, track your progress, and view your numbers later. When purchasing a smart scale, check its data storage capacities. Look at how many users it can hold, how many measurements it records, and how easy it is to keep track of your progress.
• Ease of Use: If your scale is difficult to use, you won't be motivated to add it to your daily routine. Make sure the setup process is simple, and that the scale has the right kind of technology for your smartphone, third-party apps, and Amazon Alexa or Google Home devices. Also, look for a large, clear display that's easy to read.

How We Tested the Smart Scales 

To find the best smart scales, we've spent over a month testing 20 smart scales in The Verywell Testing Lab and at home. During testing, we evaluate each smart scale based on the following criteria:

• Setup: To evaluate setup, we unbox each smart scale, download its corresponding app, and pair it with our smartphones. How easy is the process and how long does it take? We prioritize scales that are easy to set up and come with clear instructions.
• Precision: To evaluate the precision of each scale, we weigh ourselves three times. First, we check our weight on a standard scale. Next, we step on the smart scale. Then, we hold a 5-pound dumbbell and weigh ourselves three more times. Does the number on the display jump by five pounds? We note whether the smart scales read the same as the analog scale and whether our weight remains consistent throughout the test.
  

• Readability: For any scale to be worth it, you need to be able to clearly read the data it displays. While standing on each smart scale, we note how easy it is to read and interpret our weight. Is the display well-lit? Can we read it from a distance?
• Data Storage: Your scale needs to have the capacity to record and store your metrics. During our Lab test, we test each smart scale's data storage and user profiles. We prioritize scales that offer 10 or more data points other than weight, can record data for at least 10 users, and have a compatible app that easily tracks and stores metrics. 
• Ease of Use: Scales that don't require recalibration or additional instructions (like tapping your foot on the scale before use) receive high scores for this attribute.
• Overall Value: To accurately assess each smart scale's value, we don't check the price until the end of the testing period, after we've evaluated it in all categories. Based on the scale's performance, do we think it's priced fairly? Or would we only buy it if it went on sale? We also consider whether we'd recommend the scale to a friend or family member.
  

Our Experts

We consulted with experts at every stage while researching and reporting this story. Some, like Stanford and Vladimir Karpukhin, helped us understand how smart scales work and what kind of measurements they can provide. Others, like Rosenfeld, explained whether smart scales can be accurate. While we choose products independently, input from experts influences our decisions.

• Katie Rosenfeld, DO, weight loss clinic physician with DuPage Medical Group Obesity Medicine in Illinois
• Fatima Cody Stanford, MD, MPH, MPAA, obesity medicine physician scientist and educator at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School and member of President Biden’s Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee
• Vladimir Karpukhin, RVT, RMDS, diagnostic medical sonographer at Cedars-Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital

Frequently Asked Questions

Are smart scales accurate?

Smart scales tend to be accurate for measuring weight and BMI. That said, there tends to be more variability when looking at other measurements, such as body fat percentage and bone mass, according to Rosenfeld.

How do smart scales calculate body fat?

Smart scales calculate an estimated body fat percentage using bioelectrical impedance. Sensors in the scale send an undetectable electric current from one foot through your body to the other foot. The slower the current, the higher the percentage of fat in your body.

How do smart scales measure bone density?

Smart scales measure bone density through a DEXA scan (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry). Bones are poor conductors of electricity compared to other body tissues, so electrical current resistance allows smart scales to calculate bone mass, notes Vladimir Karpukhin, a diagnostic medical sonographer.

How do you reset a smart scale?

Every smart scale has different reset instructions—it can be as simple as pushing a button or more complicated, like removing the batteries. Refer to your smart scale's manual for specific directions.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Michelle Parente is an experienced fitness writer who is passionate about making great product recommendations. She has her own personal smart scale, so she knows that accuracy and precision are essential each and every time you step on it. As a fitness enthusiast, Michelle believes that a good smart scale can help you make better lifestyle choices and truly change your health and fitness journey for the better.

Additional reporting contributed by Emily Stone

Emily Stone is a Chicago-based journalist specializing in fitness and lifestyle content. She does ample research on the best health and fitness gadgets on the market and only recommends the top ones. In a world with seemingly endless gadgetry, smart scales gather precise health information on one device, which previously required multiple.