Whoop Faces Stiff Competition from Budget Fitness Trackers in 2026
Fitness trackers are evolving, with new options challenging long-time favourite Whoop. In today’s c't uplink episode, experts compared Whoop’s detailed insights with cheaper alternatives from Amazfit and Polar. Both brands now offer display-free bands that track biometrics without a subscription fee.
Whoop has built a strong reputation over the years. Initially aimed at elite athletes, it now attracts everyday users focused on health. Its sleek fabric design and subtle look have won praise. But the service comes at a cost: basic membership starts at €199 per year, while the full package reaches €399.
Amazfit and Polar have entered the market with simpler, more affordable options. The Amazfit Helio Strap launched in early 2026 for €100, while Polar’s Loop, first released in 2013, now costs €180. Both devices record essential biometric data and provide analytics through their apps—all without extra fees. The discussion in c't uplink centred on whether these budget trackers match Whoop’s depth. Whoop offers performance guidance and detailed fitness analysis, but its high subscription price remains a hurdle. Competitors like Amazfit and Polar could appeal to users seeking core features at a lower cost.
Whoop remains a premium choice for in-depth fitness tracking, but alternatives are gaining ground. Amazfit and Polar provide subscription-free options with similar biometric monitoring. The debate highlights a shift: users now have more ways to track health without long-term costs.
