If you’re looking to measure your body composition — and not just your weight — then you’ll need to invest in a bio-impedance scale. These scales use electrical current to measure the impedance of your body tissues, which can then be used to calculate things like body fat percentage and water weight.
In this post, we’ll review the 5 top bio-impedance scales on the market, based on our independent research. We’ll discuss the features of each scale, as well as how accurate they are at measuring body composition.
First, some background on measuring body composition and the value of bio-impedance scales.
What is body composition and why is it important to track it regularly
When people talk about their weight or fitness level, they often focus solely on the number on the scale. But our weight is made up of more than just fat — it also includes muscle, bone, and water. The relative weight of each element is known as body composition.
By tracking our body composition, we can get a better understanding of our overall health — not just what we weigh, but also how much muscle mass we have and our relative percentage of body fat. Also, monitoring changes in body composition can give insight into the effectiveness of our diet and exercise routines.
Overall, measuring body composition gives a far more accurate picture of our physical state than simple body weight.
What is a bio-impedance scale and how does it work?
Wondering why your bathroom scale these days has those extra electrodes on it? That’s because it’s a bio-impedance scale, able to measure not just weight but also body fat percentage and even hydration levels.
Traditional scales can only measure your overall weight, but bio-impedance scales use a small electric current to also determine body fat percentage and lean muscle mass. So while you may not have lost any weight on the scale, you could actually be losing fat and gaining muscle — making these fancy scales much more accurate in tracking progress towards health and fitness goals.
How does it work, you ask? Well, it sends a small electrical current through the body and measures resistance — fat doesn’t conduct electricity as well as muscle or water, so the scale can distinguish between different types of tissue.
It’s not quite as accurate as bulkier methods like medical-grade CT scans, but it provides a very good estimate of overall body composition and is suitable for most people.
The 5 best bio-impedance scales on the market today
The product research team here at Man Over 40 has found what we think are the top bio-impedance scales currently on the market. In making our selections, we considered a range of factors including accuracy of measurement, integration with other apps, sleekness of design, types of features, price, and more.
1. Best Overall: Withings Body + Smart Wi-Fi Bathroom Scale
The Withings Body+ Smart Wi-Fi bathroom scale is among the best on the market when it comes to tracking body composition. This scale measures weight, body fat percentage and water percentage, muscle mass and more. It can sync with over 100 top health and fitness apps (wirelessly via bluetooth), including Apple Health, and has a long battery life. The scale is also multi-user friendly, recognizing up to 8 users.
The sleek and stylish bathroom scale also comes with an elegant design, which is why we give it the top rating overall.
2. Most Accurate: RUNSTAR Scale for Body Weight
If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line scale that is going to give you incredibly accurate body composition data, the RUNSTAR Scale for Body Weight is a great option.
This scale is equipped with eight electrodes that allow it to directly measure your limbs and torso, providing you with more accurate information than traditional body weight scales. Additionally, the RUNSTAR Scale for Body Weight tracks 20 different body measurements, including BMI, body fat, subcutaneous fat, and body water.
You can easily keep an eye on your progress with the help of the Starfit app, which provides detailed charts and saves historical data. The scale can also be used by up to 24 people, making it great for families or groups of friends.
And if that wasn’t enough, the extra large display screen is easy to read and doesn’t require you to connect your phone each time. If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line scale that is going to give you incredibly accurate body composition data, the RUNSTAR Scale for Body Weight is the perfect option.
3. Easiest to Use: INEVIFIT Bathroom Scale
The INEVIFIT Bathroom Scale is a top-quality product that is perfect for anyone looking to accurately monitor their body weight and composition.
The scale features large, easy-to-read numbers and a sleek design, making it both attractive and functional. Additionally, the scale’s Auto-On and Auto-Off sensors help to conserve battery life, while its sturdy construction ensures long-lasting use.
Most importantly, according to users the INEVIFIT Bathroom Scale is incredibly accurate, providing users with precise measurements every time.
Overall, the INEVIFIT Bathroom Scale has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from users. Customers love the scale’s accurate measurements, sleek design, and sturdy construction. Additionally, many users find the scale to be incredibly easy to use, thanks to its simple interface and automatic sensors.
4. Good All-Around Choice: Omron Body Composition Monitor with Scale
The Omron Body Composition Monitor with Scale is a top-of-the-line product that accurately measures body fat percentage using a proven bioelectrical impedance method.
The scale measures 7 fitness metrics: Body fat percentage, BMI, skeletal muscle, resting metabolism, visceral fat, body age, and weight. It’s easy to read and has a digital screen that displays weight in seconds up to 330 pounds. The scale also stores up to 4 individual profile settings, making it perfect for the whole family to track their progress.
This is a good, all-around choice that mixes performance and an attractive design.
5. Best Low-Priced Option: Arboleaf Scale for Body Weight
The Arboleaf Scale for Body Weight is perfect for those who are looking for a comprehensive way to measure their body composition — and at a lower price point. With 14 different measurements that include weight, body fat, water weight, muscle mass, bone mass, and more, it’s easy to track your fitness progress.
The larger platform is ideal for bigger folks as it can accommodate all foot sizes, and the thicker tempered glass is both durable and stylish. So, if you’re looking for a solid bio-impedance scale that can accommodate larger people, and at a lower price, look no further than the Arboleaf.
Bonus: How to use a bio-impedance scale correctly
So you’ve gotten yourself a fancy bio-impedance scale and you’re ready to start tracking some serious health metrics! Here’s a quick rundown of how to use it correctly for the most accurate results.
First, make sure that your feet are clean and dry before stepping onto the scale. Wearing socks or standing on a wet surface can affect the reading.
Next, ensure that both feet are placed firmly on the electrodes for consistent measurements.
And finally, stand still and hold your breath while the scale measures your body composition – any movement or heavy breathing can throw off the results.
It is recommended that you take the measurement in the morning before eating, drinking, or taking a shower. If the weight value displayed on the scale is abnormally low or high, you can place the monitor on a hard and level floor.
Voila — now you’re ready to get those numbers in tip-top shape. Happy measuring!
