RENPHO and Etekcity are the two most popular budget smart scales, and for good reason — both deliver 90% of the functionality of premium brands at 25% of the price. But there are subtle differences that might make one better for you.
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Quick comparison
| Feature | RENPHO Smart Scale | Etekcity Smart Scale |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $25-35 | $22-30 |
| Body composition metrics | 13 | 13 |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi | No (some newer models have WiFi) | No |
| Max weight | 396 lbs | 400 lbs |
| App | RENPHO Health | VeSync |
| Apple Health sync | Yes | Yes |
| Google Fit sync | Yes | Yes |
| FSA/HSA eligible | Yes | Yes |
| User profiles | Unlimited (with app) | Unlimited (with app) |
| Baby/pet mode | Yes | Yes |
Feature breakdown
The two scales are remarkably similar in features. Both measure:
- Body weight
- Body fat percentage
- Body water percentage
- Bone mass
- Muscle mass
- BMI
- BMR (basal metabolic rate)
- Visceral fat
- Protein
- Skeletal muscle
- Metabolic age
- Lean mass
- Subcutaneous fat
You get the same 13 metrics from either scale. The differences are in app experience and small design details.
Accuracy and consistency
Both scales use bioelectrical impedance, which has 3-5% margin of error for body fat percentage. The absolute numbers may differ slightly from DEXA scans, but trends over time are reliable for both.
In direct comparison testing:
- Weight: Both are accurate to within 0.2 lbs of calibration weights
- Body fat %: Both within 1-2% of each other; both within 3-5% of DEXA
- Muscle mass: Both show consistent trends; absolute numbers vary slightly
- Consistency day-to-day: Both stable when measured under same conditions
Bottom line: Accuracy is essentially equivalent. Don't choose based on accuracy.
App experience
This is where the two diverge most:
RENPHO Health app
Cleaner, simpler interface. Easier to see trends at a glance. Shows all 13 metrics in a single scrollable dashboard. Trend charts are clear. App is regularly updated.
VeSync app (Etekcity)
More features (integrates with Etekcity's other smart home products). Slightly busier interface. Some users find it less intuitive for tracking body composition specifically. Same data tracking capability.
Winner: RENPHO for app simplicity. Etekcity if you use other VeSync-compatible smart home products.
Price and value
Both scales regularly go on sale on Amazon. Typical prices:
- RENPHO: $25-35 (often $28)
- Etekcity: $22-30 (often $25)
The difference is $3-5. Both are excellent value compared to premium brands like Withings ($100-200) or Garmin ($130+).
Which to buy
Choose RENPHO if:
- You want the simplest app experience
- You want clearer trend visualizations
- You don't use other VeSync products
- You don't mind spending $3-5 more
⚖️ Buy RENPHO Smart Scale on Amazon
Choose Etekcity if:
- You want to save $3-5
- You already use VeSync-compatible smart home products
- You want a marginally higher weight capacity (400 vs 396 lbs)
⚖️ Buy Etekcity Smart Scale on Amazon
Honestly, you can't go wrong with either
Both deliver excellent value and accurate trends. Pick whichever is on sale or whichever app interface appeals to you more. Don't overthink it.
Both scales are FSA/HSA eligible. If you have a flexible spending or health savings account, use it to buy the scale. Save your Amazon receipt and submit for reimbursement. This effectively gives you 25-35% off depending on your tax bracket.
FAQs
Do these scales work without the app?
Yes, but you lose the body composition tracking. The scale will display weight on its screen. For body fat %, muscle mass, and other metrics, you need to sync with the app via Bluetooth.
Can multiple people use the same scale?
Yes. The apps support unlimited user profiles. Each person creates their own profile in the app and the scale automatically identifies who's weighing based on previous readings.
Do these work on carpet?
Not recommended. Bioelectrical impedance scales work best on hard, flat surfaces. On carpet, readings can be inaccurate. If you must use carpet, place a hard board under the scale.
How long do these scales last?
Both brands typically last 3-5 years with regular use. Battery life (4 AAA batteries) is 6-12 months. The scales don't degrade over time; the main failure point is the electronics.
Can I use these with a pacemaker?
Consult your cardiologist. Bioelectrical impedance sends a tiny electrical signal through the body. Most modern pacemakers are compatible, but check with your doctor first.
Related: Complete smart scale guide · Tracking progress beyond the scale · Muscle preservation