by Jay Mulban | Jun 6, 2018 | FITNESS TRACKERS
The Best Tomtom Multi Sport GPS Watch (Heart Rate Monitor)
If you’re aiming to turbocharge your fitness you can benefit hugely with an activity tracker. TomTom Spark 3 (or the Runner 3) is a highly rated GPS fitness tracker. There’s the big advantage of tapping into TomTom’s mapping system for the best route tracking and guidance. As a result, this tracker is popular with runners and cyclists.
Advantages of TomTom Spark 3 Activity Tracker
- Great running features for interval exercise and you can add your favourite music playlists straight to the tracker and leave your phone at home.
- The GPS functionality lets you load a route to the tracker and follow it, or if you want to be spontaneous you can use random routes and let the Spark 3 guide you back home.
- The battery life lasts for an impressive 3 weeks (without GPS) or 11 hours with GPS switched on.
- You can take the tracker swimming as it’s fully waterproof.
- Accurate heart rate tracking whilst exercising.
Disadvantages of TomTom Spark 3 Activity Tracker
- The TomTom app isn’t as intuitive as alternative brands like Fitbit or Garmin.
- Sleep tracking could be better, especially since the tracker is comfortable enough to sleep with in bed.
TomTom Spark 3 Review
This is the third version of TomTom’s Spark range and it is their best tracker yet. GPS tracking is brilliant for cyclists, outdoor runners and you get 4 different choices of the Spark 3 which include:
- The standard GPS version.
- Cardio + Music version- this includes heart rate monitoring and storage for 500 songs.
- Spark 3 with just music.
- Spark 3 with just heart rate tracking.
TomTom Spark 3 Heart Rate Monitoring
Wrist-based optical heart rate tracking is often slow and inaccurate, but thankfully this isn’t the case with the Spark 3. I tested it against my Polar H7 chest strap and was impressed to see that the readings were similar even during intense exercise (where optical sensors fall behind). The average heart rate reading for the Spark 3 was just a few beats per minute different to the Polar H7.
Whilst working out you can view your heart rate and the relevant intensity zone which ranges from 1 “Easy” to 5 “sprint”. You can customize the tracker so that it knows your preferred intensity zone and the device will motivate you to stay in your zone by vibrating against your wrist if you drop below your desired zone.
The TomTom activity tracker will also monitor your heart rate throughout the day and provide resting heart rate metrics through the app. This is very useful as it helps you to gauge if your physical activity and exercise are at the correct level.
Heart rate tracking isn’t included with the entry-level version of the Spark 3 but we think that it is worth having.
TomTom Spark 3 Activity Tracking
Spark 3 tracks a variety of activities including gym, cycling (indoor & outdoor), swimming, running (indoor & outdoor) and freestyle. I tested the tracker for outdoor running and cycling, and in the gym. It tracked everything commendably, but I noticed that it didn’t automatically detect exercises like competing trackers- you need to manually start an exercise.
The onboard GPS ensures that all outdoor pursuits are accurately recorded. A minor issue is the amount of time it took the tracker to sync activities to the TomTom app, I felt that it could have been quicker. It can take up to an extra 60 seconds to sync when compared to alternative trackers.
Is the TomTom Spark 3 Good for Running?
In addition to the Spark 3 range, TomTom has also introduced the Runner 3, especially for runners. The device is similar to the Spark 3 and available in running stores, the straps are available in different colours. It is essentially the same tracker and an ideal running companion.
What sets the Spark 3 from other trackers is the Route Exploration features that allows you to upload routes to the tracker via the app and then use them for your runs, and if you diverge from your route the Spark 3 will guide you back- this means you can explore without the worry of getting lost. The screen shows an easy-to-use map that you can magnify and navigate with.
The map feature is hugely beneficial in unfamiliar areas, but it’s also handy in areas that you usually run so that you can experiment with different routes without worrying about how to get back home. Brilliant route guidance eliminates the need to bring your phone with you.
The Spark 3 also locates GPS signals very quickly, usually between 45 to 90 seconds, so that you’re not waiting for long periods to begin your run or cycle. During your outdoor activity, you’ve got fast access to your metrics including distance, average pace, time, current pace and beats per minute.
You can customize the Spark 3 to display different modes depending on how you want to view your run. You can set it up for interval running, or vibrate whenever you slow down from your preferred pace or fall below your desired heart rate zone.
After you’ve completed your run you can review stats using the TomTom Sports App or transfer the data to other running apps such as Runkeeper or Strava, this is helpful given that the TomTom App isn’t as refined yet.
If you prefer running on a treadmill, the Spark 3 will accurately mirror the stats shown on the equipment, then you can easily add the distance later on. It will provide similar options for indoor running as it does for outdoors. Over the colder months, you can still use the watch for interval running in a warm gym.
Two of the Spark 3 versions are bundled with onboard storage for 500 songs on the music model, which can be played via a good pair of Bluetooth headphones that are included with these variants (which are also compatible with any Bluetooth earphones).
The upgrade costs slightly more but I feel it is worth it because a good set of Bluetooth headphones will cost more than this.
Is TomTom Spark 3 Good for Cycling?
Although running is the main feature on the TomTom Spark 3, it functions exceptionally well for bike riding whether it’s outdoors or inside. You can customize the settings in a similar fashion to your running or other exercises.
The tracker doesn’t provide metrics that are specific to cycling such as power or cadence but GPS makes sure that speed, splits, elevation and distance are tracked. If you’d rather take a spinning class indoors, the Spark 3 tracker will record calories burned and heart rate, and it allows you to do interval training.
Is TomTom Spark 3 Good for swimming?
The TomTom tracker is surprisingly good to use during swimming. Simply enter the pool length measurement and the device will count lengths, strokes, total distance, calories burned and strokes per minute.
The Spark 3 doesn’t distinguish between different swimming strokes but it will provide metrics that are specific to your swimming such as a SWOLF (Swim Golf) score which measures the number of strokes for each length and the time it takes to complete a length.
RECOMMENDED: The Best Fitness Trackers For Running
Step Counting on the TomTom Spark 3
The Spark 3 tracker is geared more towards tracking specific sports instead of activity tracking, but it’s completely capable of doing both and it does a great job at keeping your step count. There’s quick access to your daily and weekly step stats either through the tracker itself or the TomTom app.
The watch’s long 3-week battery life is ideal for daily tracking and minimizes the risk of it running out when you’re not at home during the day. The tracker will vibrate and congratulate you when you achieve any of your set goals.
Calorie Counting on the TomTom Spark 3
Just like with steps, the stats for calories burned are quickly accessible on the Spark 3. You can view the calorie count for all your exercises. Calories totals are not the device’s main focus but the stats are always available whenever you want to review them. If you’d prefer a tracker that focuses on calories burned and weight loss then I’d recommend the Fitbit Alta HR.
RECOMMENDED: The Best Fitness Trackers For HITT, Crossfit & Weights
Using The TomTom app
The TomTom app has undergone an extensive revamp over the past several months and the upgrade was long overdue. The new improved app provides a detailed summary of your daily activities, routes taken, splits and an amendable graph that gives heart rate data, pace and elevation.
The app’s features are not as robust as other apps like Fitbit or Garmin. I like that the TomTom app can link to Nike+, Runkeeper and Strava, so that you can view a detailed analysis of your activity using your favourite apps instead of the TomTom Sports app.
An improvement that I would like to see would be the ability to create a fitness program through the app, whether its a one-off or a series of sessions, then transfer it over to the device.
Charging the TomTom Spark 3?
The TomTom activity tracker lasts for 11 hours with the GPS turned on and 3 weeks if GPS is disabled. If you run regularly the tracker should last for a week with the GPS on. If you commute to and from work on your bike every day then you might need to recharge the device halfway through the week. Overall, the battery lasts long enough to see you through all your activities without worries.
TomTom Spark 3 Activity Tracker Product Rating
The Tomtom Spark 3 fitness tracker is a comfortable and reliable device that is a great companion for your exercise program and general daily tracking. Waterproofing, SWOLF functionality and advanced route mapping has seen the device become the activity tracker of choice among runners, cyclists and swimmers.
Product Rating: 7/10 
Where Can You Buy The TomTom Spark 3 Activity Tracker?
Find the best prices for the TomTom Spark 3 activity tracker By Clicking Here
by Jay Mulban | May 30, 2018 | WIRELESS HEADPHONES
The Best Bluetooth Wireless Earbuds: A Budget-Friendly Audio Solution
If you’re searching for an affordable pair of powerful Bluetooth earphones with a reliable signal then you should seriously consider ENACFIRE E18 wireless earbuds. Tangled wires are now a thing of the past thanks to huge improvements in wireless technology that allow for uninterrupted streaming of your music. The EnacFire E18 are an advanced pair of cable-free earbuds with powerful audio, quick pairing and cost a third of the price of Apple AirPods.
EnacFire E18 Cutting-Edge Charging System
The earbuds are charged and stored inside an advanced magnetic charging case that automatically fast charges the earphones to 80% in just half an hour. It then intelligently switches to a trickle charge to extend the battery life of the earbuds and charges the inbuilt battery inside the case. The charging system is built to prevent overcharging and continual charging (when not required).
The case gives you the freedom to recharge your earbuds whilst on the move. You can charge the earphones up to 4 times with a full case battery and enjoy 3 hours 30 minutes of music with each charge. The clever charging technology means that you never need to worry about running out of juice.
Instant Linking Technology
E18 wireless earbuds are easier to link than ever. Once paired with your device they are always ready without the need to press any buttons to connect. When pairing them for the first time, simply remove them from the case and quickly link them using your device’s Bluetooth options. After the initial pair, just take out the earphones, put them on and start playing your music, the earbuds will connect to your device automatically.
EnacFire E18 Design & Sizing
The E18 earbuds are discreet and stylish. They are completely cord-free and will never get in the way. Unlike the Apple AirPods, they do not have a stick that extends from your ears towards your cheeks. They are so small that there’s no need to remove them from your ears when talking to someone.
The earbuds are medium-sized but not too big. In my opinion, I feel that EnacFire got the sizing correct. Once fixed to your ears, it’s easy to forget that they are there. The earbuds are not far off the size of hearing aids. When you take the earbuds out of their packaging, they look immaculate and are built from high-quality material.
EnacFire E18 Comfort & Fit
The earbuds take a bit of getting used to because they feel awkward at first. The section of the earbud that goes into the ear canal is quite small and can often give the impression that the earbuds are not securely fixed to your ears but don’t worry as this section is not the part that keeps the earbuds secured.
Initially, it will feel like the earphones will drop out of your ear but trust me when I say that they will not. I gave the earbuds the head-shaking test expecting them to fall out when I shook my head with vigor but they stayed in place, thanks to the clever design that fixes the whole earbud inside your ear. It’s evident that the manufacturer has spent a considerable amount of time refining the E18 design with a unique fit that remains secured to your ears.
EnacFire E18 Sound Quality
The sound quality is impressive for a pair of earphones in a low price range. I wouldn’t compare them to Bose earphones but remember that they are much cheaper and a good buy for anyone looking for a set of affordable earbuds with great audio clarity.
The bass has a decent level of depth and they sound much better than a standard pair of earphones that come packaged with iPhone and Android phones. The audio quality is high for everyday normal usage. The sound from earphones, in this price range, can often become distorted when pushed to the limit, but this is not the case with the E18 earbuds. I would compare these close to the sound quality of Sennheiser in-ear earphones which we all know to be a great sounding brand.
Ease of use and Connectivity
As mentioned earlier, these earbuds are extremely easy to connect. Similar to the Apple AirPods, there are no buttons to press. The connectivity is the easiest that I’ve experienced outside the realms of the AirPods. Simply take the E18 earphones out of the case, press yes on your phone and they are already linked and ready to go.
If you get a second pair of E18 earbuds, to use whilst the other is charging, this isn’t an issue. I linked both pairs to my phone and didn’t get any conflicts with the software. This means that you can connect 2 pairs of earbuds and swap between them. I’ve tried this with similar headphones from other brands but always found that I needed to unlink one pair from my phone to use the other.
EnacFire E18 Bluetooth Range
I was surprised that the signal was uninterrupted even when I left my phone downstairs. My house is on 3 floors and I usually work on the top floor listening to music whilst my phone is in the kitchen downstairs (I usually forget my phone there). I can walk around the house cleaning up and listening to music without disruption to the Bluetooth signal, even with several walls in between the phone and E18 earbuds. To date, these earphones have the best connection that I’ve tested. Top marks here.
Pros:
- Uniquely designed earbuds that do not fall out.
- Affordable earbuds with audio quality that matches up to recognised brands such as Sennheiser.
- High-quality materials.
- Linking is instant and automatic.
- Case doubles up as a storage device and on-the-go charging unit.
Cons:
- Call volume is lower than music volume. It can be difficult to here people on the other end during a call.
What’s In The Box?
- ENACFIRE E18 True Wireless earbuds x 2
- 500mAh Magnetic Charging Case x 1
- USB to Micro USB Charging cable x 1
- Couples Silicone Ear Tips (S, M, L) x 3
- User Manual x 1
- 1-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty and 30 days hassle-free return policy
ENACFIRE E18 Product Rating
The ENACFIRE E18 wireless earbuds are a must-have for anyone looking for an affordable pair of wireless earphones with strong audio that matches premium alternatives, an advanced charging system and instant linking that doesn’t require buttons. The earbuds are non-intrusive and comfortable to wear for long periods.
Product Rating: 8/10
Where Can You Buy The ENACFIRE E18 Wireless Earbuds?
Find the best prices for the ENACFIRE E18 Wireless Earbuds by Clicking Here
Conclusion
Are ENACFIRE E18 the best Bluetooth wireless earbuds that are budget-friendly? I’d highly recommend them if you’re looking for an affordable wireless audio solution without compromises. The Bluetooth signal is reliable and the audio clarity is impressive.
These E18 earbuds are a decent purchase if you intend on listening to music for long periods and are looking for a comfortable set of earphones that connect quickly without hassle. They can also be used as a convenient hands-free kit for taking and making calls at home or in the office. Although the earbuds are good for listening to music on the go, performance suffers slightly when in loud environments.
Are you considering buying the ENACFIRE E18 Bluetooth wireless earbuds or do you already own a pair? Please leave your comments in the section below. I’d love to hear from you.
by Jay Mulban | May 23, 2018 | FITNESS TRACKERS
The Polar Loop 2 Activity Tracker
It can be difficult to maintain a regular fitness program, but with a fitness tracker you can stop second-guessing and know exactly where you are with your progress. The Polar Loop 2 is a perfect fitness accessory that can be tailored to your lifestyle and provide you with much-needed motivation when required. Simply tap the screen and the Polar device will reveal your step count, calories burned, time and your progress in achieving your daily movement goals.
The Polar loop 2 activity tracker is ideal for round-the-clock movement tracking and it intelligently helps you to improve physical activity. If you enjoy swimming you’ll be glad to know that the latest version is now waterproof. The soft silicone feels comfier around the wrist and call/text notifications are sent straight to the tracker and shown on the display.
The loop 2 is unique from other trackers in that it categorizes your physical exertion at 5 different intensity levels i.e. resting, sitting, low, medium and high. This makes it easier to identify areas that you are excelling and those that need improvement.
Leave the tracker on whilst sleeping and it will track your sleep patterns so you can gauge whether you’re getting enough rest. Simply log in to the Polar flow app through your phone to assess your sleep health. The tracker is also equipped with a clever wake-up alarm that sends light vibrations to your wrist to wake you up gently.
Customized Calorie Count
I’ve used Polar devices before and know that their method of measuring calories burned is one of the most accurate. The customized system will take into account your body measurements i.e. height, weight, age, gender and compare this to your physical activity to provide accurate calorie details. It’s good to see that Polar’s algorithm has been included on the Loop 2.
Loop 2 Energy Pointer
Energy pointer is an improved user-friendly, heart rate-based feature that will demonstrate the primary effect of your exercise and show you whether it is torching fat or improving overall fitness.
Activity Appraisal
Loop 2 will track daily movements and provide you with an assessment of your day-to-day, weekly and monthly physical activity. The tracker will show you how your activity and fitness contributes to your overall health.
Loop 2 is Compatible with Heart Rate Sensors
The Loop 2 can be linked with a Polar H7 Bluetooth heart rate sensor to provided precise beats per minute (BPM) during exercise. The sensor is not included but can be bought separately, simply click here
Things get more interesting when you pair up the Loop 2 with the H7 Heart Sensor- your stats couldn’t get more accurate than this. As soon as the Loop 2 is connected to the H7 sensor, fluctuations in your BPM readings are detected instantly and quicker than an optical wrist sensor.
Your training session and heart rate readings from the sensor will be recorded and transferred to the Polar app the next time it is synced. The Loop 2 will also use the heart sensor data to calculate calories burned during your workout and add these to your daily total. Once your workout is complete simply remove the H7 sensor from your chest and the training will stop.
Polar makes some of the best heart rate sensors that strap to your chest. They are durable and I’ve used them hassle-free for many years to link older Polar devices.
Reach Your Activity Goals
The Polar Loop 2 activity tracker will tailor your daily physical goals based on your body measurements, age and gender. The device will then inspire you to achieve your goal and keep you aware of your progress throughout the day.
Polar’s proprietary system tracks your exact level of physical exertion and can distinguish between low and high effort activity such as walking versus sprinting. You can then see a comprehensive snapshot of your day-to-day physical activities
The Polar Flow App
The Polar Flow app is a fitness companion that pushes you to reach fitness milestones. Your activity data can be seamlessly synced between your smartphone and Loop 2 using Bluetooth. Within the app you can view your daily activity details, exercises, sleeping trends and progression.
Syncing data between tracker and app usually takes about 30 seconds depending on the amount of data being transferred. Shorter intervals between syncs speed up the process. The data shown in the app is presented elegantly with colour coded graphs that represent each level of intensity. The app has a great calendar format that lets you view all of your fitness sessions.
Smartphone Notifications Using Loop 2
Similar to other activity trackers, the Loop 2 will vibrate when you receive a text message on your phone and display the message on its screen. If a call comes through, the polar device will vibrate and display the contact’s name or telephone number. It’s a helpful feature, but you can’t actually answer calls or reply to text messages from the Loop 2- the notifications are read-only.
Loop 2 Sends Alerts For Long Periods of Idleness
The tracker motivates you to remain active and helps to minimize idleness by vibrating when it detects long sessions of idleness. If you remain seated or inactive for more than 55 minutes, Loop 2 will nudge you to get up and move around.
Loop 2 Design
The Loop 2 is designed to resemble a band instead of a fitness watch. It looks similar in design to the Fitbit Alta HR and Garmin Vivosmart. The strap is made from a high-grade soft silicone that wraps around your wrist comfortably so that you hardly notice that its there.
Pros:
- The band can be cut to size to fit your wrist. The process is a bit unnerving but a tape measure is provided so that you don’t cut off too much of the band by mistake. Be sure to cut off a section at a time.
- High-quality materials are used throughout the device.
- Loop 2 can be linked to a Polar heart rate sensor for better BPM readings during intense workouts. The Loop 2 linked to my old Polar chest strap and worked perfectly.
- Charging the battery is quick. On some occasions, the tracker has lasted for 8 days on a single charge.
Cons:
- The clasp at the base can press into the wrist when leaning on the tracker i.e. whilst typing or using a mouse.
- Syncing data is not as quick as other fitness trackers.
The Polar Loop 2 Activity Tracker Product Rating
The Polar Loop 2 activity tracker is a durable fitness tracker that gives huge advantages to daily tracking and how it is assessed. It doesn’t come as a surprise that the device has already experienced a surge in popularity with new and existing polar users thanks to intelligent monitoring and compatibility with chest heart rate sensors.
Product Rating: 7/10
Where Can You Buy The Polar Loop 2 Activity Tracker?
Find the best prices for the Polar Loop 2 activity tracker By Clicking Here
Conclusion
Is the Polar Loop 2 activity tracker worth purchasing? If you’ve ever owned a polar device you’ll be accustomed to the brand’s extensive use of high-quality materials and durability.
The Loop 2 is no exception when it comes to meeting the high standards of Polar. This tracker could easily last for many years even when used for demanding workouts and outdoor pursuits.
I’d recommend this tracker if you want to deep dive into your activity metrics and assess how long you spend at each intensity level. You get access to the popular Polar Flow app which provides plenty of fitness functionality that is customised to your data.
Are you considering buying the Polar Loop 2 fitness tracker or do you already own one? Please leave your comments in the section below. I’d love to hear from you.
by Jay Mulban | May 16, 2018 | WIRELESS HEADPHONES
The Best Wireless Headphones For Working Out
A good workout needs a good playlist. With the right set of headphones, music is a great motivator to power through exercise. What are the best wireless headphones for working out? I’ve tried various sets and concluded that Jaybird X3 headphones are the front-runner.
They produce great sound and can be customised to fit securely so that they don’t fall out during a workout. The battery life runs for 8 hours and is enough for several exercise sessions. The earbuds are incredibly durable and can endure demanding workouts, wetness, sweat and the outdoor elements.
Why are the Jaybird X3my best choice? Because they excelled at most, if not all, of the challenges of working out i.e. sweat, sudden movements, quick music selection and so on. The most important feature of workout headphones is their ability to stay securely in your ear regardless of the type of exercise. Sweat and moisture is a big problem too, Jaybird is so confident that the X3 can repel sweat that they provide a one-year warranty against sweat damage.
I like that you can adjust the X3’s fit so that the cable can hang under or over your earlobe, it shouldn’t take too long to get the perfect fit and you’ll be grateful once you start using the headphones.
X3’s exclusive charger removes the standard Micro-USB port which is susceptible to sweat damage. I used the Jaybird X3 for my toughest workouts which included an outdoor run that encountered sudden winds and a heavy downpour. The headphones took a pounding and emerged victoriously.
Quick summary of Jaybird X3 features:
- Jaybird has ensured that X3’s wireless buds are made with the smallest proportions without compromising the high performance and style.
- The headphones will not fall out during exercise thanks to the proprietary silicone ear fins that fasten to the upper and lower areas of your ear to provide a comfortable fit, securing the earbuds inside whilst working out or during intense physical exertion. The package includes various sized silicone tips for great noise insulation and a perfect fit.
- As mentioned earlier, the X3 earphones are sweat-proof. They are durable, stylish and perfect for most types of sports, fitness programs and any type of weather (including heavy rain). They feature a fancy hydrophobic nano-coating to fend off moisture.
- Never worry about the battery running out during exercise. The X3 earphones are fitted with an 8-hour battery. The quick charge feature provides 1 hour of performance from a 15-minute charge.
- You can customise X3’s audio through the MySound App which lets you adjust bass, treble and other settings which can then be saved to your profile.
Is Jaybird X3 a Worthy Upgrade?
I try to keep my fitness schedule as varied as possible and usually fit in at least 5 grueling sessions a week. My routine includes weight training, outdoor running, cycling, kettlebell training, HIIT sessions, rowing and aerobic step. As you know, each exercise requires a different type of movement. The variation means that I need a set of headphones that won’t fall out, get in the way or fail to withstand the rigor. X3 meets the criteria.
X3 is the third version of Jaybird’s Bluetooth X range and are definitely the best I’ve tried to date. I like that they blend into the background of my workout and that I hardly notice them once they’re on. There’s also a host of technology improvements over the previous models including a more stable Bluetooth connection.
Jaybird X3 Size
The earbuds on the X3 are approximately a third smaller than the previous X2 earphones. I was impressed that the same high quality of music was maintained in a smaller enclosure.
The benefits of smaller earphones are that you can slip on a cycling helmet or any other type of headgear without the headphones becoming an obstruction. The earphones sit further inside your ear and do not stick out as much as the older X2 model.
Jaybird X3 Sound Quality
The sound quality is amongst the best that I’ve heard from a pair of wireless earphones so small. The bass has depth and the mids come through with a high level of clarity. I like to play my music loud especially when training outdoors- whilst using the Jaybird X3s I never experienced any sort of distortion with bass-heavy songs.
Charging Jaybird X3
The unique charging system has its benefits and drawbacks. On one hand, you get a unique charging clip that clips to an attachment on the remote, this allows for a smaller earbud as it eliminates the need of charging directly into one of the earbuds as with the earlier X2 model. Another benefit is that the new system is not prone to sweat damage.
The drawback of the charging system is that you now need a specific charge clip, unlike the universal micro USB cable. You’ll be stuck with dead headphones if you forget the clip on your travels or lose it altogether. I still think that the advantage of sweat resistance on the new clip outweighs the drawback.
Jaybird X3 Remote and Cable
I was worried that the remote would get in the way and swing around, whilst I was exercising, because it is bigger than the older model. This wasn’t an issue as the remote is lighter than the one on the X2. The remote and buttons are made from a plastic material that feels sturdier and better than the old one. The remote includes controls for rewinding, skipping and pausing music and it includes microphones to take or make calls.
The cable connecting the remote to the earbuds is flat and feels stronger than the last model. Similar to the X2, the cable doesn’t get tangled up. My trickiest workouts, that combine a lot of different movements, are HIIT sessions and kettlebells- Movements range from standing, squatting, laying down or jumping up high within seconds. The Jaybird X3 headphones handle these varied movements incredibly well- they don’t budge.
What’s included in the box
- Jaybird X3 headphones.
- Carrying Case.
- Foam tips x 3.
- Silicone Tips x 3.
- Cord shorteners.
- Shirt alligator clip.
- User Guide.
Jaybird X3 Wireless Headphones Product Rating
The Jaybird X3 wireless headphones are a welcomed improvement over the older model. They are a must-have for anyone looking for a non-intrusive set of wireless headphones to use during exercise, weight training and so on.
Sweat resistance has proved to be reliable and it scores top marks for high sound quality. These headphones are popular and extremely durable. Why not try them out?
Product Rating: 8/10
Where Can You Buy The Jaybird X3 Wireless Headphones
Find the best prices for the Jaybird X3 Wireless Headphones By Clicking Here
The Bottom Line
Are Jaybird X3 the best wireless headphones for working out? Absolutely. I would highly recommend them because they are a great companion for any fitness program. The new design is smaller and the battery lasts longer, the sound has incredible clarity and the earbuds stay secure during intense physical exertion.
The interior speaker has been dramatically shrunk by 20% and it contains a superior 6mm driver which delivers deep bass depth. The smaller model improves handling and gives a snug fit for big and small ears and anything in between. High-quality materials are used to construct the frame, which comprises of sandblasted, injection-molded metal.
The X3 is a dependable set of earphones for your fitness program whether it’s in the gym or an outdoor pursuit. Are you considering buying the Jaybird X3 wireless headphones or do you already own a pair? Please leave your comments in the section below. I’d love to see your opinions.
Recommended Reading: Best Wireless Headphones For Running
Recommended Reading: What Is The Best Bluetooth Earphone
by Jay Mulban | May 9, 2018 | FITNESS TRACKERS
The Best Fitness Tracker With Heart Rate Monitor
Why not turbocharge your health by getting the best fitness tracker with heart rate monitor. The Fitbit Charge 2 is currently the ultimate tracker to suit most people’s needs because it houses almost every feature you could ever need, it feels great around the wrist even when worn for a long time, and it is very affordable.
Similar to the trackers in the Fitbit range the Charge 2 records steps, calories, sleep and exercise but does this stylishly. It is a great improvement over the previous model and it sports a high-density OLED screen, which is not touchscreen for better control when sweaty or wet.
The heart-rate sensor is always on and gives precise readings but it doesn’t drain the battery and when tested, the battery actually lasted longer than the 5 days that the marketing states.
If you buy a Fitbit tracker you automatically get the benefit of becoming part of its large community and amazing app. Within the app, your data will sync seamlessly and you can log your daily meals, hydration and any other additional activities so can see the complete picture of your fitness.
The Charge 2 can also show incoming calls and message notifications from your phone. It is compatible with iPhone, Android and Windows devices. With this tracker, there is little room to make excuses why you can’t exercise and more motivation to live an active lifestyle and improve on your current fitness goals.
Initial Thoughts about Fitbit Charge 2
The Charge 2 is a midrange device from the Fitbit line-up. It substitutes the highly acclaimed Fitbit Charge and Charge HR. it will track everything including Heart rate, Calories Burned, Steps, Elevation (stairs) and uses your phone’s GPS to show a map of your route after your exercise is complete- you’ll need to have your phone with you for the map and text/ call notifications.
If you’ve never owned a Fitbit tracker then Charge 2 is a great way to immerse yourself in the world of activity tracking. What sets Fitbit apart from rival trackers is their extensive use of user-friendly software and social engagement. The Fitbit app is hard to beat and incredibly easy to use, plus you get access to the biggest community of fitness tracker users which makes it fun to find your friends and take on challenges.
Is it worth upgrading to Fitbit Charge 2?
From the onset, the original Charge has been the primary fitness tracker in the Fitbit range. The device received plenty of raving reviews and contributed to the success of the brand. So is it worth upgrading? Absolutely. It would be difficult for me to sum up the benefits of upgrading in one sentence, so I will split this into a few sections:
Quality of Material
The material used on the Fitbit Charge 2 is higher quality compared to the first model. From the moment you take it out of its packaging you will feel the sturdiness and thickness of the band. Its materials are built to stand the test of time.
Interchangeable bands
It’s quite simple to swap the bands, all you need to do is press the band no both ends and it will come loose. Unlike the original Charge, which suffered from the band developing bubbles, the band on the Charge 2 feels vastly superior and gives a sense that it will last much longer when put to the test.
When I tested an alternative tracker (Fitbit Alta) it withstood demanding workouts and the outdoor elements. The material found on the Charge 2 feels similar or maybe even better than the Alta so I’m quite confident of the high level of quality.
Fitbit Charge 2 Sizing
The width of the Charge 2 is pretty much the same as the original Charge models. I like that the buttons feel sturdier and are more prominent. When you click the buttons they don’t wiggle or feel inferior.
The band is longer than its predecessors so you might need to get a smaller size for your wrist. I normally wear a medium size but noticed that I had to use the narrowest hole. This didn’t affect comfort or usability but it’s just something to keep a note of.
Fitbit Charge 2 Screen
The screen is crisp and about 4 times larger than earlier models. The display is pleasantly bright and the font is remarkably clear. The screen’s brightness helps to eliminate the sun’s glare when outdoors. The screen is black and white, with the font displayed just off-white, unlike the previous Charge which displayed a blueish font. Notifications scroll across the display when received.
Relaxation
Similar to the Apple watch, the Charge 2 has a relaxation/ breathing feature. The tracker will observe as you breathe in and out and notifies you when to take deep breaths. This is not a feature that I would use often but it’s good to know that its there.
Navigating the Interface
The Charge 2 interface is easy to navigate. When choosing a specific exercise just click the side button to access the workout section, then tap through the various exercises i.e cycling, running, rowing, weight training and so on. Once you get to the desired workout hold the button to begin. Whilst exercising you can select various stats to customisable that activity i.e. distance, calories burned, heart rate and so on.
Menu Selection
The screen displays the clock face by default, when you press the side button you get access to the following options:
- Heart Rate
- Exercise
- Stopwatch
- Relax
- Alarm
Fitbit Charge 2 Clock Faces
You can choose from 7 different clock faces. Some faces also show the date and day. Most of the faces allow you to tap the screen to access your stats to check things like heart rate, steps, activity progress, etc. Two of the clock faces are a digital clock and the rest are analogue clocks.
Receiving Notifications
The tracker will display standard text without pictures. It will notify you of SMS and iMessages as well. If a call comes through, the tracker will show the name of the contact and/ or phone number, it will also display calendar alerts. Currently, the Charge 2 doesn’t send social media notifications but I’m sure this will be available in the near future.
Moving Motivation
If you stay sat down for long periods the Charge 2 will prompt you to get up. The minimum is 250 steps each hour.
Pros:
- Superior build quality over previous models. The materials feel and look premium, the tracker doesn’t look like its encased in tacky rubber.
- You can style the Charge 2 for any occasion thanks to the interchangeable bands- choose from metal, leather or different coloured bands.
- Heart rate monitoring is extremely accurate and constantly reads your beats per minute without compromising the battery life.
- The earlier Charge tracker occasionally had a problem reading heart rate at more intense cardio levels. This doesn’t seem to be the case with the Charge 2.
- The charger is a big improvement and features a clip style design that fits around the sides of the device. The tracker comfortably clips in and there’s no risk of it dropping out given the clever design.
Cons:
- The vibration on the Charge 2 could be a bit stronger. Personally I don’t have an issue with this but if I was using the tracker as an alarm to get out of bed then I’d maybe like the vibration to be stronger.
- Unlike the Fitbit Blaze notifications on the Charge 2 don’t show the full message at once. This is a minor issue because the message does stroll through the screen.
Fitbit Charge 2 Product Rating
Fitbit Charge is an affordable fitness tracker that has all the best technology to keep you active, monitor progress and it simplifies the presentation of your fitness metrics. It goes without saying that Fitbit designs some of the best trackers and the Charge 2 is no exception.
Product Rating: 8.5/10 
Where Can You Buy The Fitbit Charge 2?
Find the best prices for the Fitbit Charge 2 By Clicking Here
The Bottom Line
Is Fitbit Charge 2 the best fitness tracker with heart rate monitor? It certainly is and is worth upgrading to from the original Charge. If this is your first Fitbit then get ready to be wowed. The Charge 2 is a step better than the Alta, it’s stylish and built with long-lasting materials.
Why is Charge 2 the best activity tracker? Because it strikes a good balance between a great set of features (that aren’t overly complex) and affordability. You get the best sleep tracking, the best fitness app and access to the biggest community of Fitbit users. All of this for less than $120.
Are you considering buying the Fitbit Charge 2 or do you already own one? Please leave your comments in the section below. I’d love to see your opinions.
