Thanks to dozens of weight loss apps available online, staying accountable to your health goals is easier than ever. But that doesn’t mean that every weight loss app is created equally. While studies show that mobile apps can successfully help people lose weight while cutting costs, some programs can set unrealistic goals, setting you up for failure and frustration. ( 1 )
That’s why our team has tested dozens of popular weight loss apps to help narrow down the best options for your needs. We evaluated each app based on several factors, including how easy they were to use, sustainability, and the amount of personalization offered. Here’s a look at the best weight loss apps in 2024, according to our team of experts.
To evaluate your risk of an eating disorder or disordered eating, take the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) free assessment . For additional support, please contact the NEDA helpline at 1-800-931-2237 .
Best weight loss app overall
Receiving high marks for its effectiveness and sustainability from our product testers, Noom earned our pick for the best weight loss app overall. It’s centered around the psychology of food choices, using scientifically proven techniques to promote sustainable habits. And, it’s one of the few weight loss programs that addresses all aspects of weight loss
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Our picks for the best weight loss app
Compare weight loss apps
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| Noom | Simple | Future | Caliber | Perfect Body | DoFasting | BetterMe | |
| Rating | |||||||
| Price per month | $70 | Free, or $29.99 | $199 | $200 (varies by plan) | $39 | Varies | $20 |
| Platform | iOS, Android | iOS, Android | iOS, Android | iOS, Android | iOS, Android, Desktop | Android | iOS, Android |
| Free trial | 14 days | N/A | N/A | Caliber Plus only | N/A | N/A | 7-day |
Best weight loss app overall: Noom
Key product features
What you should know
Noom is a psychologically driven weight loss program that provides personalized coaching, interactive daily lessons, and community support to help you reach your health goals.
- Our product tester loved how easy Noom’s app was to use, along with its daily lessons and personalized health coaching.
- At $70 per month, Noom’s monthly fee is pricier than other weight loss apps. But, signing up for a four-month membership upfront for $169 can cut costs by almost 40%.
- Noom is a good option for someone who needs a little extra support to stay on track while building healthier habits.
Why we like Noom as best overall
Available on iOS and Android mobile devices, Noom is a popular weight loss program that uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to change habits that directly impact diet and exercise. A 2023 study found that this technique may help people implement behavioral changes that result in long-term weight loss. ( 2 )
“As with anything—like exercise, nutrition, sleep—consistency of daily habits is the most important piece for long term success. What is done most of the time is more important than what is done some of the time. Apps that encourage check ins, visits with dietitians, even touch points with friends or colleagues, can all offer the necessary support, which is why Noom can help with outcomes.”
Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD, Fortune Recommends Advisor
Within Noom’s app, you’ll have 24/7 access to coaches for support and guidance. Although the company says you’ll receive a response within 24-48 hours, our tester appreciated that her coach replied much faster, usually within a few hours.
It’s worth noting that while Noom coaches go through a structured program with in-depth behavior science training and can provide basic nutrition advice, they aren’t dietitians. If you have any concerns that require a registered dietitian you’ll want to look outside the app.
“Registered dietitians can also offer additional, personal support above and beyond an app. Research has confirmed the effectiveness of having a dietitian in your corner,” adds Mohr. ( 3 )
Noom is meant to be flexible, with no foods off-limits. Instead, the program uses a color-coded system to guide you toward better food choices. Foods are classified as orange, yellow, or green based on their calorie density, a feature our tester found to help improve her eating habits.
“Nuts or avocados, for example, may be calorie and nutrient dense, but also wonderful for you. Color coding foods based on their calorie density can be a useful tool most of the time, but it’s important to understand there are some limitations. This is where a registered dietitian can complement the app and ultimately user outcome,” says Mohr.
She also commented on the app’s ease of use and found the food logging system helpful.
“Most of the food that I eat is already saved in the app. I scan whatever I can, and it comes up automatically. Then, it’s saved as a favorite or appears at the top of my food choices if I have it often.”
Team product tester
Noom also offers daily lessons to teach you the foundations of healthy living, including nutrition, sleep, stress management , and self-care. These personalized lessons, lasting 5-15 minutes each, are interactive and include quizzes and challenges to keep you engaged.
To get started, you’ll be asked detailed questions about your background and health goals. Noom uses this information, along with your height, weight, and activity level, to develop a customized plan and suggest a daily calorie target. The average plan length is 16 weeks but may be longer or shorter depending on your health goals.
One drawback our tester mentioned was that, as she answered questions, the app kept telling her that she would reach her target weight sooner. “I started to feel really overwhelmed with Noom telling me I could lose 20 pounds in less than four months,” she commented.
Like most weight loss programs, Noom doesn’t recommend the app for people with a history of an eating disorder.
What customers are saying
Many customers have experienced weight loss and better lifestyle habits with Noom, finding the personalized daily lessons to be particularly helpful.
One Trustpilot reviewer says the lessons have improved her relationship with food.
“At first, I was skeptical. I thought the lessons were teaching me pretty obvious things but as the days have gone on I’m feeling much better and the lessons are forcing me to change my relationship with food.”
Emma M., Trustpilot reviewer
A few users have reported billing errors and note that the app’s food tracking feature could use some improvement. Verified Trustpilot reviewer Amy mentioned inaccuracies with food logging, saying “ I’ve found so many things that are different to what the nutrition labels say. So then you have to manually add, and check everything twice.”
Specs
| Free trial | 7 or 14 days |
| Features | Food/exercise tracking, community support, coaching, recipes |
| Month-to-month cost | $70 |
| Platforms | iOS, Android |
Best free weight loss app: Simple
Key product features
What you should know
Intermittent fasting has helped many people lose weight, and using a fasting app like Simple can keep you on track without breaking the bank.
- We like that Simple screens users for suitability before allowing them to sign up. We also like that fasting goals are limited to 23 hours or less; fasting longer than this without medical supervision could pose health risks to some people.
- Simple’s free version includes many features. However, you’ll need to upgrade to the premium version for a more personalized experience.
- People with a history of diabetes, kidney disease, or heart disease should talk to their healthcare provider before starting intermittent fasting. ( 10 )
Why we like Simple as best free
Simple is an intermittent fasting and meal-tracking app designed to help you lose weight, build healthier habits, and improve your relationship with food. A 2022 study showed that intermittent fasting—limiting the amount of time you eat each day—may help with weight loss and reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes in overweight people. ( 11 )
“Understand that while some research has found fasting may be an effective tool, it is just one tool among many, and certainly not a magic bullet,” says Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD. “In my personal experience, as a dietitian for 20+ years, I have found that those who are more balanced with their meals and intake have the most long term success.”
But Simple offers more features than most fasting apps, like fasting time reminders, a library of nutrition education, and personalized guidance. Simple users also have 24/7 access to Avo™, an AI-powered health coach that can provide meal suggestions, weight loss tips, and motivation. And, on the app’s home page, you’ll find a daily task list to help you stay on track, including reminders for daily readings and setting your fasting schedule.
We liked that Simple makes food logging easy, which we think is especially helpful for busy people. In addition to typing in what you eat, you can also upload a photo or use your voice to log your meals.
With Simple’s Nutrition Scores system, you’ll receive instant feedback on your logged meals. Note that scores are only estimates and assume average portion size. When I logged five servings of spaghetti for dinner, it only counted the meal, not the portion size, and gave it an “optimal” score. If you consume more calories than your body needs during your eating window, you might not lose weight.
Simple connects with Apple Health, Fitbit, or Google Fit to sync your steps, water intake, and sleep data.
Many features on the app are included with the free version, though you’ll have to upgrade if you want to receive a customized plan that includes features like daily tasks and personalized insights.
What customers are saying
Simple has over 200,000 ratings on the Apple App Store. A majority of users report being successful with the app. A verified Apple App Store reviewer, with the username Kawimer, loves that the app improves accountability while providing education about fasting.
“This app is one of the best I have ever used for staying on track and learning more about the healthy sides of intermittent fasting.”
Kawimer, Apple App Store customer
Trustpilot reviewer Jessica C. loved the app’s reminders and that it showed her when she was in fat-burning mode. However, she did question the accuracy of Simple’s nutrition scoring system, saying, “I don’t think Simple’s nutritional evaluation of food intake is accurate, but I realize it has a lot of other components that are very helpful.”
Specs
| Free trial | N/A |
| Features | Fasting timer, AI chatbot, educational library |
| Month-to-month cost | $29.99 |
| Platforms | iOS, Android |
Best weight loss app for building an exercise routine: Future
Key product features
What you should know
Future connects you with personal trainers who create workout routines based on your goals, background, and available equipment. The app doesn’t offer meal plans or nutrition coaching, though many coaches are qualified to answer basic questions and help you determine your daily macronutrient needs.
- Our product testers found the app incredibly easy to use, and they liked the clear, accessible communication with coaches.
- At around $200 a month, Future is an investment. However, it’s likely cheaper than what you’ll pay for a month’s worth of in-person personal training. You can also save around $50 a month by paying upfront for a Future annual membership.
- We recommend Future for people looking for accountability, structure, and personalized guidance in their fitness journey.
- If you’re new to working out, we suggest recording your first few workouts so that your coach can check your form.
Why we like Future as best for building an exercise routine
Research shows that pairing a supervised resistance training program with a reduced-calorie diet that’s adequate in protein reduces fat and weight while preserving lean mass in overweight individuals. ( 4 ) That’s why we recommend Future for people looking to build a well-rounded weight loss routine.
Future is one of the best personal training apps out there. It that pairs users with coaches who develop custom training plans that are specific to their goals, equipment, and fitness levels. After taking a short intro quiz, Future will recommend several certified coaches who fit your preferences. If you aren’t satisfied with any of these options, you will have the option to choose a different coach yourself. And, if you prefer face-to-face communication, you can schedule a FaceTime call with your coach to dive deeper into your fitness needs.
A Future membership includes unlimited messaging with your coaches, who will answer your questions, reach out to you often, and work with you to fine-tune your training plan.
One of our testers liked that her coach frequently reached out to help with accountability.
“Most mornings, my coach messaged me with motivational quotes and encouraged me to get my workout in.”
Team product tester
Each Future workout includes a short introduction from a coach and an overview of what to expect. Before beginning, you can preview each exercise and watch a video demonstration on how to complete it.
You can also cast workouts to your TV, making it easier to follow along. And, you can also listen to your own music or podcast during your workout, a feature that may help improve the quality of your workout.
The Future App—available in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store—is compatible with various smartwatches, including the Apple Watch. Our tester found this feature helpful, eliminating the need for her to keep running over to her phone if she needed to pause for a minute to catch her breath.
While your coach won’t watch you train in real-time, they can see when you start and finish a workout. If you’re using a smartwatch, they can also see your heart rate and calories burned as you complete your exercises. Further, you can record your workouts and send them to your coach if you’re wondering whether you’re performing an exercise correctly.
“If you’re new to exercise or just need added accountability, receiving personal feedback and coaching can be an invaluable resource. ( 5 ) The functionality and personalization of the Future app adds value to the end user,” says Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD.
What customers are saying
The Future app has over 9,000 reviews on the Apple App Store. Several users say that the app has kept them accountable and consistent, leading to visible progress. Verified customer Mashka L. from the Apple App Store stated that she has had some injuries after pregnancy, and Future has helped her regain strength.
“My coach, Laura-Lynn, creates new workouts for me every week that target my specific needs. We have video check-ins, we message every week and after every workout to make sure my goals are being met. I have some injuries and some changes to my body after pregnancy, but she’s able to work around them and help me get my strength back.”
Mashka L., Apple App Store customer
Some users note that they would like to see more features added.
Verified customer Andrea W. from the Google Play Store wrote, “This program is great in its workouts, but it doesn’t incorporate basic user experience for things like displaying data graphics on weight, measurements, step tracking, weekly photo progress, and workout milestones.
Specs
| Free trial | N/A |
| Features | Exercise tracking, personalized workout plan, coaching |
| Month-to-month cost | $199 |
| Platforms | iOS, Android |
Best Android weight loss app: Caliber
Key product features
What you should know
Caliber offers programs for all budgets. The premium version offers individual coaching, including personalized training and exercise plans with detailed instructions.
- Our product tester was very pleased with her coach’s advice and accountability offered by the premium version. She was particularly impressed with the strength scores, which show how developed your major muscle groups are compared to others.
- With one-on-one coaching plans starting at around $200 per month, Caliber is relatively expensive. However, it is around the same price as other premium workout apps and likely cheaper than paying for a personal trainer.
- Caliber may be a good option for someone looking for a comprehensive, at-home weight loss program that focuses on building muscle while losing fat.
- Caliber plans focus on progressive overload, which involves gradually increasing weight, frequency, or time under tension. This method of strength training is scientifically proven to improve muscle growth. ( 6 )
Why we like Caliber as best Android
Research suggests that combining diet, exercise, and behavior modification is the most effective way to achieve significant and lasting weight loss. ( 7 ) And Caliber does just that. The nutrition and fitness app aims to help people build muscle and lose weight through personalized exercise and nutrition plans, one-on-one coaching, and weekly lessons.
Caliber is available in three tiers, each including different levels of coaching, support, and personalization.
The free version allows you to create your own training program and gives you access to an exercise library and community groups, but it doesn’t offer much more in terms of personalized support or guidance. For that, you’ll need to choose a paid subscription option.
Caliber Plus–which starts at around $12 for a monthly membership–is the company’s newest subscription tier. It includes custom nutrition recommendations, exercise tracking, and access to a library of coach-designed workout plans.
For an even more personalized experience, we suggest Caliber Premium, a structured three-month program that starts at around $200 per month. With this plan, Caliber pairs you with a coach who works closely with you to develop a personalized workout plan, offer motivation, and monitor your progress. Your coach will adjust your diet/exercise plan based on your progress and health needs.
“This level of personalization is really critical in terms of long term success. Accountability can play a big role in the overall outcome.” ( 8 )
Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD, Fortune Recommends Advisor
You can communicate with your coach 24/7 in the app through live video calls or video/text messaging. If you’re new to lifting weights or want to ensure you’re using the proper form, we recommend taking advantage of Caliber’s video form review feature.
Like Future, your Caliber coach won’t watch you work out in real time, but they can track your progress using your training data in the app. They can also track your nutrition data. Caliber syncs with Cronometer, one of the best nutrition apps , with a large food database and barcode scanner that makes tracking foods easier. Your coach can use your Cronometer data to help keep you accountable and offer suggestions during check-ins.
Caliber uses measurements like strength balance and strength score to track your progress, which can help you track improvements in your strength training progress and body composition.
Unlike many weight loss apps, Caliber doesn’t offer information on prices and plans available after completing your quiz. Instead, you must schedule a phone consultation to discover pricing and finish the signup process.
Our tester found this to be one of the platform’s only drawbacks, saying, “I don’t have many negative things to say about Caliber, but I would have liked to see the membership options at the end of the quiz without having to book a call.”
What customers are saying
Caliber has over 100,000 downloads on the Google Play Store. Many customers appreciate that the app is user-friendly and features workouts to accommodate a variety of skill levels.
Like our tester, verified customer Fred from the Google Play Store found the strength score to help him keep track of his training progress.
“Great app; I use it almost every day. The strength score gives me a visual representation of my progressive overload, which is great.”
Fred, Google Play Store reviewer
One thing that customers mention could be improved on is the app’s speed, saying that sometimes workouts are slow to load.
Verified customer Mason B. from the Google Play Store notes that his app frequently freezes during workouts, though he continues to use the app. It seems that customer service has narrowed down the problem, saying, “This can sometimes happen specifically on Android if a user is running a VPN or ad blocker on their device. On our side, we are exploring workarounds for this to prevent this from happening even in these cases.”
Specs
| Free trial | N/A |
| Features | Exercise and nutrition tracking, personalized nutrition and exercise plan, coaching, weekly educational lessons |
| Month-to-month cost | $200 a month (but varies based on your package) |
| Platforms | iOS, Android |
Best weight loss app for iPhone: Perfect Body
Key product features
What you should know
Perfect Body provides a 28-day meal plan to help you meet your goals. The app allows you to track meals, water intake, and steps.
- Our team appreciates that Perfect Body offers nutritionally balanced recipes made with whole foods.
- With a one-month plan starting at $39, the service is relatively expensive compared to other weight loss apps. However, it is still likely cheaper than paying a dietitian to create a meal plan.
- Perfect Body may be good for people who like to cook and prepare meals but want to save time browsing thousands of recipes that meet their macronutrient needs.
Why we like Perfect Body as best for iPhone
Perfect Body is a personalized weight loss program that offers nutritionist-designed, 28-day meal plans tailored to your dietary preferences and weight loss goals.
Meal plans are fully customized based on an intro quiz that asks about your food preferences, typical meal patterns, dietary allergies, activity level, and how much time you like to spend preparing food. Currently, Perfect Body does not offer meal plans for keto or vegan diets.
A nutritionist develops each Perfect Body meal plan to meet your calorie and macronutrient needs. You’ll get five recipes a day—three meals and two snacks. All recipes include detailed instructions, nutritional information, and a complete shopping list.
Perfect Body recipes are relatively simple to prepare and prioritize whole, fresh ingredients. They’re also high in protein, consisting of 25–35% protein, 40–50%carbohydrates, and about 20–30% fat. Studies show that high-protein diets can help increase satiety, calorie burn, and weight loss. ( 9 )
If your plan includes a meal or snack that doesn’t look appealing, you can easily swap them within the app.
With the Perfect Body app, you’ll be able to keep track of everything you eat, as well as your water intake, steps, and sleep. The app integrates with iOS HealthKit.
One major drawback is that the app doesn’t allow you to log other meals if you deviate from your meal plan. This makes it difficult to track your daily intake if you decide to dine out or venture off of your plan throughout the month.
“Meal plans can be an effective way to change your health and physique, if that’s a goal. But there is more to success than simply following a meal plan. I would encourage those who are considering this app to seek out a consultation with a registered dietitian,” says Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD.
What customers are saying
The Perfect Body app has nearly 4,000 reviews on the Apple App Store. Several reviewers mention that the program has encouraged them to get out of their comfort zone and try recipes they usually wouldn’t have.
“I’m eating foods I never would have tried before and love them. I’m eating more and losing weight, which I didn’t even think was possible.”
ADiva5, Apple App Store customer
However, some users say they would like to see improvements, especially with Perfect Body’s food tracker and meal selection. One Trustpilot reviewer, Cheryl S., liked that she didn’t have to worry about going over her macros but would like to track other meals. She said, “I would like to be able to sometimes put in my own meals. And I also wish there was a bigger variety of stuff to choose from when I want to change a meal.”
Specs
| Free trial | N/A |
| Features | Personalized nutrition plan, recipes, nutrition tracking, step tracking; optional add-ons: customized workout plan, dietitian consultation |
| Month-to-month cost | $39 (but varies based on your package) |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, Desktop |
Best weight loss app for beginners: DoFasting
Key product features
What you should know
DoFasting is a great option for beginners looking to explore intermittent fasting. Fasts are categorized by skill level, with a beginner’s fast allowing you to start with a simple 12-hour fast.
- You can think of DoFasting as a one-stop shop for everything from exercise routines to recipes and tracking tools. Unlike Simple, it also allows you to track your calories to ensure you’re not under-eating or overeating during your eating window.
- DoFasting says their pricing changes often due to seasonal and personalized discounts. On the website, I got a 7-day trial for $1. However, on my phone, there was no trial offered. We recommend trying both options to compare prices and plans.
- DoFasting is a great choice for people who are new to fasting and want help staying on track.
Why we like DoFasting as best for beginners
DoFasting stands out for its comprehensive approach to intermittent fasting. Within the app, you can choose from various fasting types that are categorized by experience level.
We appreciate that DoFasting gradually eases beginners into fasting by encouraging them to start with 12-hour fasts before jumping into longer fasting periods. With DoFasting’s challenge mode, beginners can receive a structured daily plan that includes fasting hours, nutrition education, and exercise suggestions. The app uses your data to set daily recommendations for calories, macronutrients, exercise, and water.
DoFasting also provides personalized breakfast, lunch, and dinner meal recommendations tailored to your dietary preferences and calorie needs. Meals prepared from recommended recipes are automatically added to your calorie tracker, though you can manually log your calories.
DoFasting also syncs with Apple Health, Google Fit, and Fitbit to keep track of your steps.
Exercise suggestions are provided based on your fitness level and preferred workout days. Each 10-30 minute exercise routine includes audio and video guidance. To our knowledge, DoFasting is one of the only fasting apps that offers this feature.
Unfortunately, the app doesn’t offer personalized coaching, which we do know can help with success. However, users have access to an extensive library of articles that offer basic tips and guidance, as well as a Facebook community for ongoing support.
We didn’t like that the pricing structure was inconsistent, with promotions and pricing varying by how you access the app. For example, when I took the quiz on the website, I was offered a 7-day trial for $1, followed by a three-month membership priced at $79.20. But through the app, there was no trial available. The prices were the same as the website, with a one-month plan priced at $36.99 (regularly $73.99).
What customers are saying
DoFasting has over 4,500 reviews on the Apple App Store and over 6,000 on the Google Play Store.
Reviews from happy customers mention that the app is easy to use and improves accountability. However, several customers note the app itself needs a few improvements. Melanie B. from the Google Play Store says she loves the app and its tracking tools.
“Love it! Easy to track calories, meals, and fasting time left. Very educational as well. Lots and lots of great recipes, customized to your needs.”
Melanie B., Google Play Store customer
However, Melanie mentioned that she wished DoFasting was available on other platforms. “The downside is that the recipes are only available on the app,” she commented.
Verified Apple App Store reviewer Melissa K found the app helpful but, like many other users, had difficulty canceling their membership. “Found the app friendly and functional. But buyer beware–if you try and cancel ‘normally,’ you’ll still be charged unless you reach out by email.”
Specs
| Free trial | N/A |
| Features | Nutrition tracking, step counter, fasting timer, educational library |
| Month-to-month cost | Varies; currently priced at $37 |
| Platforms | iOS, Android |
Best weight loss app for strength training: BetterMe
Key product features
What you should know
BetterMe is a great way for people to incorporate strength training into their weight loss journey. The only equipment you’ll need is a yoga mat.
- Our team loves BetterMe’s wide range of activities including bodyweight exercises, strength, Pilates, and mindfulness training.
- At $20 per month, BetterMe’s price is pretty average. If you want to add coaching to your BetterMe experience, it’s $3.99 per message.
- BetterMe is a great option for people looking for an exercise and nutrition-centered approach to weight loss.
Why we like BetterMe as best for strength training
We like BetterMe as best for strength training because of the app’s vast library of exercises that help target specific areas of the body, along its meal planning tips that can help guide any level of weight loss journey.
Getting started with BetterMe is fairly simple. First, you’ll take a quiz that helps the app customize your experience based on your age, gender, weight loss and muscle building goals. While our tester (a personal trainer) found this process a bit tedious, they noted that this extra legwork upfront is a great resource for beginners who are just starting out with a strength training routine.
In addition to its tracking capabilities and workout tools, BetterMe offers educational articles on nutrition, diets, fitness, weight loss, and mental health to support users’ wellness journeys. The BetterMe blog includes helpful tips from counting macronutrients (fat, protein, and carbs) to meal prep with low-calorie ingredients to aid weight loss. It also has a variety of workouts you can choose from: bodyweight exercises like squats and push ups, HIIT workouts, strength training, and Pilates, to help you work up a good sweat on your weight loss journey. Studies show that bodyweight movements and resistance training can lead to leaner body mass, less fat around the internal organs, and weight loss, which can also help improve cardiovascular health. ( 12 )
BetterMe’s base price is $20 a month, but the app does start to get pricier if you add in messaging with a coach or opt to participate in fitness challenges—these additions will bump that monthly price to $30 to $40.
It’s worth noting that BetterMe’s website markets a different price than the Apple App Store. If you sign up on the website the 4-week workout plan costs $38.95 without a free trial, but they do offer a first-month discount. In the Apple Store, it costs $19.99, and you get a free trial.
If you opt to subscribe to BetterMe, you’ll receive access to personal trainer advice and exercises based on your goals and skill level. But as with many types of fitness app subscriptions, you will be automatically renewed each month unless you manually cancel the subscription.
What customers are saying
Reviews on Trustpilot share mixed feedback on BetterMe.
“This app has honestly changed my life for the better! My body is almost back to the toned body I had before COVID came into our lives and other than that, what it’s done for my mental health has honestly changed the low place I was in for such a long time. All you need is twenty minutes a day minimum to see results and there are so many other options at no extra cost to even further do more than your daily plan.”
Natalie H., Trustpilot
Some customers experienced problems with being charged when they tried to end the 7-day trial or cancel the service once subscribed; others ended up being charged for extras like coaching that they didn’t sign up for.
“They lure you in with a ‘free trial’ but I was charged $25 as soon as I downloaded the app,” writes Noma Y. “I tried to cancel the trial, they make it almost impossible to cancel your subscription. I reached out to their customer support to cancel my account, they told me my account was canceled and reassured me there will be no further charges, and I was charged $50. Save yourself the hassle and do not download.”
Despite numerous complaints about overcharging customers and about some of the app’s features, BetterMe’s customer service seems pretty responsive online.
Specs
| Free trial | 7 days |
| Features | Bodyweight exercises, strength, Pilates mindfulness training, and nutrition tracking. |
| Month-to-month cost | $19.99 |
| Platforms | iOS and Android |
How we test weight loss apps
We understand that hundreds of weight loss apps are available, many of which are not worth your investment. We also know that everyone has unique challenges when it comes to weight loss, and what works for one person may not work for you.
To help you find the best weight loss program for your needs, our team put dozens of weight loss apps to the test. All of the weight loss apps in this article were thoroughly researched and medically reviewed by certified personal trainers, registered dietitians, and other industry experts. Any health claims were fact-checked to ensure they were based on trustworthy scientific evidence.
Scores were provided by our testers and a team of experts based on the metrics below. You can read our full testing methodology here .
Program design—30%
A nutrition program should be backed by science and flexible to accommodate your individual needs and preferences. Our testers have been in the field long enough that they know the real thing when they see it. Here’s what they look for:
- Explanation
- Adaptability
- Sustainability
- Realistic expectations
Value—30%
The internet is flooded with nutrition programs, ranging from free recipes to personalized coaching that costs thousands of dollars. Our goal is to connect you with a plan that feels worth your investment, from the first day you start until the day you decide to go off on your own.
Here’s what we factor into a program’s value rating:
- Fair price
- Tracking capabilities
- Tools and recipes
Extra options—20%
We give extra points to the nutrition programs that stand out by offering bonuses like:
- Coaching and community support
- Education
- Workouts
Customer experience—20%
We want you to avoid buyer’s remorse and guide you toward a program you’ll look forward to following. Here are some overlooked details that can make a big difference:
- Reliable technology
- Reviews
- Customer service
- Free trial periods
What to look for in the best weight loss app
Before purchasing a weight loss app, it’s important to consider your goals and preferences and carefully evaluate your options instead of rushing into a purchase.
Here are some things to consider for your best chance of success:
- Features : While most weight loss apps offer similar basic features, some go above and beyond to help you achieve your goals. Studies suggest that virtual weight loss programs that include coaching, social support, and workout plans are more likely to be effective. ( 12 )
- Ease of use: An app that’s easy to navigate is more likely to keep you consistent with your weight loss journey. We suggest reading reviews on your device’s app store to learn more about an app’s functionality.
- Realistic goals: Avoid programs that set unrealistic expectations or guarantee rapid weight loss in short time periods. People with a slow, steady weight loss of around 1 to 2 pounds per week are more likely to keep it off. ( 13 )
- Compatibility: Look for an app that syncs with your other health apps and wearable devices to make it easier to track your physical activity.
- Price : Last but not least, price is one of the most important factors to consider. While many free apps provide basic functions, they might not meet all your needs. In these cases, upgrading to a premium version might be worthwhile. We also recommend looking for apps that offer free trials so that you can test out their premium features before committing to a purchase.
FAQs
Which free app is best for weight loss?
Out of all of the free apps we’ve tested, Simple stood out for offering the most features without requiring a premium membership.
Do weight loss apps really work?
Weight loss apps can work well, especially if you’re tech-savvy, motivated, and ready to make lifestyle changes. A study from 2023 showed that these apps can effectively help people lose weight and are a cost-effective, convenient option compared to in-person weight loss programs. ( 1 )
Are weight loss apps worth it?
Weight loss apps can be worth it, especially if you’re looking for a structured program with guidance and support. In many cases, weight loss apps are easily accessible and more affordable than traditional alternatives.
Is a weight loss app right for me?
If you’re motivated and ready to lose weight or reach a specific wellness goal, you may benefit from a weight loss app. People with a history of eating disorders or other health conditions should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any weight loss program.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
Our experts
Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD
Dr. Chris Mohr is an internationally recognized subject matter expert and speaker and performance coach. Through his facilitation and online resources, he works closely with some of the largest corporations in the world including Deloitte, Delta Airlines, Johnson & Johnson and more to help busy executives all over the world, develop the energy to thrive personally and professionally.
Lily Moe, Editor
Lily is a Brooklyn-based writer and editor with over seven years of experience in health media. As a former Fitness Coach, Lily’s editorial prowess has largely focused on fitness, nutrition, and weight management. She has also spent a fair share of time in testing labs, analyzing everything from protein powders to yoga mats. Her work has appeared in Verywell Fit, Verywell Mind, Health, and more.
Jessica Coulon, Editor
Jessica Coulon is a contributing editor and writer for Fortune Recommends™ who specializes in fitness, health, nutrition, and science content. Previously, she was an editor for Popular Mechanics and Bicycling, where she covered pro cycling news, wrote how-to guides, and tested all the latest and greatest bike gear. She was also a regular shoe tester and contributor for Runner’s World. You can often find her skiing or riding her mountain bike, and racing with the F1RE female enduro team.
Kelly Uhler, Fact Checker
Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.
Lindsey DeSoto
RDN, LD, Fortune Recommends Nutrition Writer
About Author
Lindsey DeSoto is an experienced registered dietitian who enjoys staying up to date on the latest research and sharing her knowledge through writing. Her writing and expertise have been featured in various publications, including Verywell Health, Medical News Today, Health, and CNBC.