If you’re deciding which Withings smart scale to buy, we’ve got the lowdown on models in the new range so you can compare
and choose the right one
If you want to improve your fitness, a smart scale is a solid investment. It’ll provide you with measurements apart from weight to focus on, and a reliable and data-rich way to track your progress.
Smart scales use bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) to determine body composition. The scale itself is embedded with electrodes – as is the retractable handle in the case of the Body Scan.
The electrodes send a mild, painless electrical current up through your feet and the scale measures your body’s resistance to it. Lean tissue is a better conductor than fat, bone or skin, so the scale can build up a picture of your body by the speed and strength of the returning current. It tells you much more than an ordinary weighing scale.
In this article, we’ll be discussing the latest range of Withings smart scales: the Body Smart, the Body Comp and the Body Scan.
But you can still buy older Withings models, including the Body Cardio (Amazon US, $179.95; Withings UK, £149.95). Although older lines are being phased out and replaced by the new range, we still rate the Body Cardio as one of the best smart scales we’ve tested. You can find out more about it in our review.
Withings’ smart scales are not cheap but they are among the best available, promising weighing accuracy to 50g, delivering a wide range of metrics and accompanied by a free to use, high-quality app.
You can also export your data to a wide range of other health apps, or for more fitness help, opt to join the paid Withings+ subscription service which costs $/£/€9.95 per month or $/£/€99.50 per year, after an initial three-month free trial.
But if you want one, which one should you buy? Below, we give you a rundown on the prices and features of each.What does a Withings smart scale measure?
All three scales – the Body Smart, the Body Comp and the Body Scan – will provide these measurements:
Fat mass, muscle mass, bone mass
Lean mass %, water %
Visceral fat index – visceral fat is the more worrying fat that wraps around your organs and is distinct from subcutaneous fat
Body mass index – your BMI is based on your body fat percentage.
