Smart scales have grown in popularity over recent years as technology enables them to measure detailed body metrics beyond just weight. However, there are still good reasons why someone may want to avoid purchasing one of these newer scales. This expert guide analyzes the drawbacks to help you make an informed decision.
How Smart Scales Work
Smart scales utilize sensors and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) to capture not only your weight, but also body composition measurements. BIA passes a small electrical current through your body to analyze tissue and fluid resistance in order to calculate metrics like body fat percentage. More advanced models even have additional handles to get readings from your arms and legs.
Over the past decade since companies like Withings first introduced consumer smart scales, the technology has continued improving. New models can measure parameters including body fat, muscle mass, bone density, protein levels and more. However, accuracy varies greatly depending on the scale’s algorithms and quality.
Reason 1: Expensive Cost
While basic models are affordably priced, expect to pay more for a smart scale that provides truly reliable, consistent and actionable health insights. Many cheaper versions lack precision and transparency around how measurements are taken. Investing in a higher-end option from a leading manufacturer helps ensure accuracy.
Reason 2: Low Accuracy
The level of accuracy simply can’t compare to advanced clinical devices used by health professionals. And without visibility into proprietary algorithms, measurements from mainstream consumer smart scales should be considered as general estimates rather than completely factual body composition percentages.
Reason 3: Confusing Setup
Getting connected can be frustrating for non-technical users unfamiliar with newer gadgetry. Scales that rely on finicky Bluetooth connections, WiFi networks and companion phone apps often run into issues that block usage and sap motivation.
Reason 4: Cumbersome Usage
The process of weighing in now requires starting the related app and awkwardly standing still until multiple readings are captured. For people seeking quick convenience, traditional mechanical scales remain far simpler to use consistently.
Reason 5: Extra App Costs
While basic weighing insights come included, analyzing trends over time or integrating with other health stats often requires premium app subscriptions, unlocking full potential at an added cost.
Reason 6: CIED Incompatibilities
For those with pacemakers, defibrillators or other cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED), electrical interference risks indicate smart scales may not be medically suitable in all cases. Patients should consult physicians beforehand.
Reason 7: Emotional Impact
Seeing precise weight measurements could negatively affect body image perceptions and self-esteem for some individuals prone to obsessive scale-watching. Relying less on numbers could prove mentally healthier.
Smart Scale Alternatives
Rather than high-tech options, simpler solutions also empower people to monitor progress:
Fitness Journals: Recording workouts and nutrition manually builds self-awareness just as effectively.
Tape Measures: Tracking dimensional body changes also demonstrates tangible results.
Testing Fitness Level Improvements: As cardiovascular health, strength and endurance increase, outward appearances follow.
Analog Scales: Sometimes the basic weight readout is sufficient feedback for maintaining healthy behaviors.
In summary, buyers should carefully weigh pros and cons before purchasing smart scales given potential accuracy limitations, usage difficulties, hidden long-term costs and unique medical considerations. Simpler methods can alternatively fulfill informational needs. Carefully evaluating personal requirements leads to optimal decisions.
