Best Alternatives to ActiGraph in 2025: Top Advanced Accelerometers for Physical Activity Research

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ActiGraph has been a significant player in accelerometer-based monitoring of physical activity, but 2025 brings forward new, innovative alternatives. We delve into the top four alternatives to ActiGraph, each equipped with distinct features catering to various aspects of physical activity research.

Testimonial quote praising Fibion’s portability and price effectiveness compared to ActiGraph, attributed to Goh Jor Ming, PhD, MS, a professor at the National University of Singapore. His feedback serves as a banneres endorsement for Fibion.

1. Fibion SENS: Leading the Way in Accelerometer Convenience

Discover the Fibion SENS Motion 3 Devices Comprehensive Package for just 590 euros. This complete set includes both the device and smartphone, ready for your motion test needs. Select your desired quantity and add to bag easily. In stock now!

Fibion SENS has redefined the approach to raw accelerometer measurements, offering a blend of user-friendliness and advanced technology.

Considerations:

  • Modern Cloud Capabilities & Remote Control
  • Incredible 22-Week Measurement Time and up to 2 years in stand-by mode
  • Full remote control of measurement
  • Tiny and Sleek, Fully Waterproof with a Practically Medically Approved Patch
  • Limited to Three-Axis Acceleration Measurement
  • Non-Rechargeable Battery

2. Fibion G2: Reliable and Flexible Research Tool

A person in a white t-shirt and jeans stands next to a Fibion G2 device, ready for data collection with its versatile wearing options.

The Fibion G2 is a highly capable wearable designed for precise data collection in research applications.

Considerations:

  • Validated Accuracy: Provides accurate data on physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep patterns using a 16-bit accelerometer.
  • Flexible Placement: Can be worn on the upper leg or chest, offering versatility for different types of studies.
  • Long Battery Life: Operates up to 70 days in summary mode and 10 days for detailed pre-filtered data.
  • Research-Oriented Features: Includes event markers and customizable LED indicators for enhanced usability.
  • Limited recording duration for raw data (up to 7.5 hours at 50Hz).
  • Requires setup using a PC or optional BLE dongle.

The Fibion G2 is well-suited for studies requiring detailed, validated, and reliable data. Explore more about the Fibion G2 here​​.

3. ActivPAL: Thigh-Worn Precision for Sedentary Analysis

ActivPAL has carved a niche as a thigh-worn accelerometer, excelling in accurately tracking sedentary behavior.

Considerations:

  • Precise Sedentary Behavior Monitoring
  • Extensively Validated in Diverse Studies
  • Compact and Small-Sized Sensor
  • Not Fully Waterproof
  • Outdated Software Interface

4. Fibion Flash: Compact and Efficient Data Logger

A person wearing a chest band with the best sensor stands in a high-tech room. Text reads "Introducing Fibion Flash." Images of the innovative research sensor and its logo are displayed.

The Fibion Flash is a lightweight device optimized for standalone data logging in various research settings.

Considerations:

  • Comprehensive Data Capture: Records HRV, ECG, and multi-axis motion with precision.
  • Adaptable Design: Supports chest, wrist, and clip-based mounting for different study requirements.
  • Extended Battery Life: Utilizes a low-cost, replaceable CR2025 battery, reducing maintenance needs.
  • Customization Options: Features an open API for tailored applications and edge computing capabilities.
  • Not rechargeable, relying on replaceable coin batteries.
  • Limited to standalone data logging without direct cloud connectivity.

The Fibion Flash is ideal for researchers requiring a compact, flexible, and efficient solution for collecting physiological and motion data. Learn more about the Fibion Flash here​​.

5. Axivity: Customizable Research Tool for In-Depth Analysis

Webpage screenshot displaying axivity's products, specifically ax3 and ax6 logging accelerometers, including product images, descriptions, and prices.

Axivity is the go-to device for researchers needing customizable and detailed activity monitoring.

Considerations:

  • Flexible Sampling Frequencies and Parameter Settings
  • Accurate Raw Data Acquisition
  • Versatile Body Placement with Various Algorithm Support
  • Complexity in Usability
  • Not Easy Attachment Methods to the Skin
  • Not Fully Waterproof
  • No Cloud Functionality

6. Fibion Research: Simplifying Data Analysis in Physical Activity Research

A smartphone displaying an activity balance chart and a Fibion device, with accompanying texts and graphics indicating activity summaries and reports, provides researchers with valuable insights.

Fibion Research simplifies the accelerometer experience, making it accessible for all user levels.

Considerations:

  • Automatic Data Analysis with Engaging Participant Reports
  • Thigh-Worn Device with Sophisticated, Activity-Specific Energy Expenditure Algorithms
  • Extremely Researcher Friendly, Browser-Based Operation
  • Does Not Record Raw Triaxial Acceleration

Each alternative to ActiGraph offers unique attributes, from ease of use and comprehensive data analysis to specific functionalities tailored for diverse physical activity research needs. Your project’s requirements will determine which device is the ideal match for your research in 2025.

You Might Also Be Interested

📚 Delve into our comprehensive Wearables & Accelerometer collection for insightful perspectives on articles related to accelerometers and wearables.

🔍 Learn more about how our various valid and reliable products, such as the Fibion Device, Fibion Flash, Fibion Helix, Fibion SENS, Fibion G2, Fibion Sleep, Fibion Emfit, and Fibion Circadian, can help you in your research measuring physical activity, sedentary behavior, HRV and sleep.

📅 Planning research measuring physical activity, sedentary behavior, HRV or sleep? For a chat with our accelerometer and wearable expert, book a video call with Dr. Miriam Cabrita, or ask for a quote.

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Axivity Disclaimer:

“The mention of Axivity in this article serves an informational purpose and should not be interpreted as an endorsement or affiliation. Axivity is a product owned by Axivity Ltd. We are independent of Axivity Ltd, and the use of the Axivity name in this article is solely for describing the product’s attributes and uses in a research context. Axivity is a registered trademark of Axivity Ltd.”

ActivPAL Disclaimer:

“Please note that ActivPAL™ is a product of PAL Technologies. The references to ActivPAL in this article are for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by PAL Technologies. ActivPAL is a trademark of PAL Technologies and is used here only to describe its product’s features and functionalities as part of our informational content.”

ActiGraph Disclamer:

“Please be aware that ActiGraph is a product of ActiGraph, LLC. The references to ActiGraph within this article are solely for informative purposes. We do not have any affiliation with, nor are we endorsed by, ActiGraph, LLC. ActiGraph is a trademark of ActiGraph, LLC, and its use in this article is merely to discuss the product’s features and capabilities in an educational context.”

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Olli Tikkanen

About Fibion

Fibion Inc. offers scientifically valid measurement technologies for sleep, sedentary behavior, and physical activity, integrating these with cloud-based modern solutions for ease of use and streamlined research processes, ensuring better research with less hassle Contact us.

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