Introduction

This article offers a comprehensive review of the top actigraphy devices available in 2025. It explores features, applications in research, pros and cons, and pricing information, aiming to assist researchers in selecting the most suitable devices for their studies.

1. Fibion SENS

Features and Specifications

The Fibion SENS offers advanced motion tracking with a compact design. It includes a variety of sensors, including accelerometers and gyroscopes, for precise movement analysis. The device integrates seamlessly with cloud platforms for data analysis and storage.

Applications in Research

The Fibion SENS is utilized in various research fields, including physical activity monitoring, sedentary behavior studies, and clinical trials. Its high accuracy and ease of use make it a versatile tool for researchers.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High accuracy and precision
• Seamless cloud integration
• Versatile applications
• Low price

Cons:

• Limited battery life for extended studies

Pricing Information

The Fibion SENS is priced at €135 per device (US$ 145).

2. ActiGraph GT9X

Features and Specifications

The ActiGraph GT9X features a 3-axis accelerometer, providing high-resolution data on physical activity and sleep. This compact device is capable of capturing detailed raw data, making it a versatile tool for various research applications. The GT9X is also equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, enabling real-time data transfer and integration with other systems.

Applications in Research

The ActiGraph GT9X is widely used in studies focusing on physical activity, sleep quality, and circadian rhythm analysis. Researchers utilize this device to monitor daily activity levels, assess sleep patterns, and investigate the impacts of different interventions on physical health.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High data accuracy and resolution
• Comprehensive software integration
• Durable and water-resistant design

Cons:

• Limited battery life compared to some competitors
• Higher price point for advanced features

Pricing Information

The ActiGraph GT9X is priced at approximately US$ 500.

3. Condor ActTrust 2

Features and Specifications

The Condor ActTrust 2 comes with advanced sleep-tracking capabilities, including light, temperature, and activity sensors. This device offers robust data logging and can store data for extended periods, making it ideal for long-term studies.

Applications in Research

Primarily used in sleep research, the ActTrust 2 is valuable for studying sleep disorders, sleep hygiene, and the effectiveness of sleep interventions. Its comprehensive data collection capabilities also support studies on circadian rhythms and overall health monitoring.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Extensive data storage capacity
• Multiple sensors for comprehensive data collection
• Long battery life

Cons:

• Higher price range
• Complexity in data management due to multiple sensors

Pricing Information

The Condor ActTrust 2 is priced between £599 (US$ 760).

4. GeneActiv

Features and Specifications

The GeneActiv features a waterproof design and a high-resolution 3-axis accelerometer. It provides continuous raw data output, making it suitable for both sleep and physical activity research. The device is lightweight and comfortable for long-term wear.

Applications in Research

GeneActiv is widely used in physical activity monitoring, sleep studies, and research on circadian rhythms. Its versatility and continuous data output make it a preferred choice for diverse research projects.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Waterproof and durable
• Continuous raw data output
• Comfortable for extended wear

Cons:

• Higher price range
• Limited integration with some software platforms

Pricing Information

The GeneActiv is priced between US$ 750 and US$ 995.

5. MotionWatch 8

Features and Specifications

The MotionWatch 8 is designed with a focus on sleep and activity monitoring. It includes a light sensor, temperature sensor, and a 3-axis accelerometer. This device is known for its long battery life and robust data-logging capabilities.

Applications in Research

The MotionWatch 8 is extensively used in sleep research, activity monitoring, and studies on circadian rhythms. Its comprehensive sensor suite allows for detailed analysis of sleep patterns and daily activities.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Long battery life
• Robust data logging capabilities
• Multiple sensors for comprehensive monitoring

Cons:

• Higher price range
• May require additional software for data analysis

Pricing Information

The MotionWatch 8 is priced between US$ 995 and US$ 1,095.

6. Fibion Research

Features and Specifications

The Fibion Research device is tailored for detailed activity tracking and analysis. It features multiple sensors for capturing movement and environmental data, providing researchers with a comprehensive tool for various studies.

Applications in Research

This device is perfect for research on physical activity, sedentary behavior, and the impacts of interventions on daily movement patterns. Its detailed data output supports in-depth analysis and insights.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Comprehensive data collection
• High precision sensors
• Tailored for research needs

Cons:

• Limited battery life (up to 30 days)
• Requires specific software for data analysis

Pricing Information

The Fibion Research is priced at €390 per device (US$ 419).

7. Axivity

Features and Specifications

The Axivity AX3 and AX6 are compact and lightweight devices with 3-axis accelerometers. They are designed for long-term data collection and are widely used in both sleep and physical activity research.

Applications in Research

Axivity devices are popular in studies that require continuous monitoring of physical activity and sleep patterns. Their small size and durability make them ideal for large-scale population studies.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight
• Long battery life
• Durable and waterproof

Cons:

• Requires specific software for detailed analysis
• Higher initial setup cost

Pricing Information

The Axivity AX3 is priced between £129 and £139 (US$ 163 – US$ 176), while the AX6 is priced between £189 and £199 (US$ 239 – US$ 252).

8. activPAL

Features and Specifications

The activPAL is a thigh-mounted device that measures posture and activity. It is particularly useful for studies on sedentary behavior and physical activity, providing detailed insights into daily movement patterns.

Applications in Research

This device is used extensively in research on sedentary behavior, activity patterns, and intervention impacts. Its unique design allows for precise tracking of posture and movement.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Detailed posture and activity tracking
• Easy to use and wear
• Provides unique insights into sedentary behavior

Cons:

• The thigh-mounted design may not be suitable for all studies
• Higher price range

Pricing Information

The activPAL is priced between £290 and £520 (US$ 367 – US$ 657).

9. Micro Motionlogger Watch

Features and Specifications

The Micro Motionlogger Watch is designed for both sleep and activity monitoring. It includes a 3-axis accelerometer and offers robust data logging capabilities. The device is durable and suitable for long-term wear.

Applications in Research

This device is used in various research fields, including sleep studies, physical activity monitoring, and circadian rhythm analysis. Its comprehensive data logging makes it a valuable tool for extensive research projects.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Robust data logging
• Durable and suitable for long-term wear
• Versatile applications

Cons:

• Higher price range
• Requires specific software for data analysis

Pricing Information

The Micro Motionlogger Watch is priced between US$ 750 and US$ 995.

Notably, the Fibion SENS is highly recommended for longitudinal studies due to its durability and detailed long-term data collection capabilities. Additionally, both Fibion SENS and Fibion Research are effective in measuring physical activity and sedentary behavior, making them versatile tools for various research applications.

Conclusion

The comprehensive review of the top actigraphy devices of 2024 highlights the diverse capabilities and applications of these advanced tools. Each device, from the ActiGraph GT9X to the Micro Motionlogger Watch, offers unique features that cater to various research needs. Whether you’re focusing on sleep studies, physical activity monitoring, or circadian rhythm analysis, there is a suitable device for every research requirement.

Summary of Reviewed Devices

• ActiGraph GT9X: Known for its high data accuracy and comprehensive software integration, making it ideal for detailed physical activity and sleep studies.
• Condor ActTrust 2: Offers extensive data storage and multiple sensors, perfect for long-term sleep research.
• GeneActiv: Waterproof and durable, suitable for continuous monitoring in diverse research settings.
• MotionWatch 8: Provides robust data logging and long battery life, widely used in sleep and activity monitoring.
• Fibion SENS: Features high precision and cloud integration, excellent for both physical activity and sedentary behavior studies. Its robust design makes it ideal for longitudinal studies, providing detailed insights over extended periods.
• Fibion Research: Tailored for comprehensive activity tracking, supporting detailed analysis of movement patterns. It is well-suited for measuring both physical activity and sedentary behavior.
• Axivity AX3 and AX6: Compact and lightweight, ideal for long-term data collection in large-scale studies.
• activPAL: Unique thigh-mounted design for precise posture and activity tracking, beneficial for sedentary behavior research.
• Micro Motionlogger Watch: Durable and versatile, suitable for both sleep and activity monitoring.

Recommendations for Research Applications

Selecting the right actigraphy device depends on the specific needs of your research. For high-resolution physical activity and sleep data, the ActiGraph GT9X and GeneActiv are excellent choices. If your focus is on long-term sleep studies, the Condor ActTrust 2 provides extensive data storage and detailed monitoring capabilities.

For studies on sedentary behavior and detailed posture tracking, the activPAL offers unique insights. The Fibion SENS and Fibion Research devices are particularly well-suited for comprehensive activity tracking and cloud-based data analysis. Notably, the Fibion SENS is highly recommended for longitudinal studies due to its durability and detailed long-term data collection capabilities. Additionally, both Fibion SENS and Fibion Research are effective in measuring physical activity and sedentary behavior, making them versatile tools for various research applications.

Further Reading

For more detailed insights and comparisons, explore our related articles and resources:

• Exploring Actigraphy in Scientific Research: A Comprehensive Guide
• Comprehensive Sleep Wearables and Actigraphy Comparison Sheet Download (Free Resource)
• Why Fibion SENS is the Best Tool for Clinical Research and Trials
• Comprehensive Accelerometer Comparison Sheet Download (Free Resource)
• For more detailed comparisons and insights, explore our extensive Wearables & Accelerometer article collection.

This review aims to provide a thorough understanding of the top actigraphy devices, helping researchers make informed decisions to advance their studies effectively.

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🔍 Order Fibion SENS Motion 3 Devices Test Package to get first-hand experience of the system. Order now for hands-on experience and comprehensive insights.

📅 Planning research measuring physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep? For a chat with our accelerometer and wearable expert, book a session with Dr. Miriam Cabrita.

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

Disclaimer:

The brand names and product names mentioned in this article, including ActiGraph, Condor ActTrust, GeneActiv, MotionWatch, Axivity, activPAL, and Micro Motionlogger Watch, along with their associated device models and software platforms, are trademarks of their respective companies. Our use of these names does not imply ownership or affiliation with any of these brands or companies. This article is intended for informational purposes only and aims to provide an overview of the mentioned products based on publicly available information.

The information regarding the features, costs, and performance of the products provided herein is intended for general informational purposes only. Prices and specifications of the products are subject to change and may vary depending on various factors, including but not limited to market conditions, product versions, and geographical location. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please visit the respective brands’ official websites.

We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the information on these products mentioned in this article. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. All trademarks and registered trademarks mentioned herein belong to their respective owners.