I replaced my Whoop with a rival fitness band that has no monthly fees - and it's nearly as good
The $200 Polar Loop offers Whoop-like tracking for a one-time fee, lasting a week on a charge.
Polar has entered the subscription-free fitness band market with the Polar Loop, a $199.99 device targeting users tired of Whoop's monthly fees. The screenless tracker focuses on core health metrics like heart rate and sleep, leveraging Polar's reputable Generation 3.5 optical sensor for accuracy. It features a minimalist design with a small 29-gram module on a fabric band, offering week-long battery life and automatic tracking for daily activities.
Unlike a full smartwatch, the Polar Loop is designed for passive, distraction-free monitoring. However, it can pair with a Polar smartwatch for users who want GPS data or advanced workout metrics. The key selling point is its one-time cost structure, providing an alternative in a market dominated by subscription models like Whoop's. While the companion app experience may not be perfectly optimized yet, the device delivers on core tracking promises without ongoing payments.
- Priced at $199.99 with no subscription fee, challenging Whoop's model.
- Uses Polar's Generation 3.5 optical heart rate sensor for accurate readings.
- Offers week-long battery life and automatic activity/sleep tracking in a 29-gram design.
Why It Matters
It provides a credible, cost-effective alternative for professionals seeking detailed health metrics without recurring fees.