Smartwatches and smart rings are vying for your attention, but Whoop 5.0 is taking a different approach. This distraction-free fitness band eschews the screen and phone mirroring, focusing purely on health tracking. With updated hardware, innovative features, and a tiered subscription model, the Whoop 5.0 offers a unique approach to fitness tracking. Let’s delve into what makes it stand out.
Whoop 5.0: Hardware Enhancements
A person wearing the Whoop 5.0.
The Whoop 5.0 comes in two versions: the standard 5.0 and the Whoop MG. The key difference lies in the MG’s FDA-approved electrocardiogram (ECG) functionality, absent in the standard model. Both share a seven percent smaller case than the Whoop 4.0, retaining the distinctive clip-on strap system. Inside, enhanced sensors, an improved haptic engine, a better accelerometer and gyroscope, and a 10x more efficient processor power a 14-day battery life, extendable by another 14 days with the Wireless PowerPack. This unique charging system doubles as a portable power bank for on-the-go charging.
The Whoop 5.0 on charge.
Designed primarily for the wrist, the Whoop 5.0 offers various straps and integrates with specialized sports apparel, featuring dedicated pockets in compression shirts, bralettes, briefs, and bike shorts. Separate “Pods” provide alternative wearing options.
The reduced size of the Whoop MG is noticeable, resulting in a lighter, less obtrusive feel. While the clasp and strap adjustment can be finicky, the elasticated strap should conform to the wearer’s wrist over time. The premium SuperKnit strap, available in various colors and clasp finishes, adds a touch of style. However, its lack of a display for time or other information might lead users to wear it alongside a traditional watch.
Feature-Rich Tracking and Insights
Screenshots from the Whoop app.
The Whoop 5.0 tracks over 145 activities, steps, V02 Max, muscular strain, sleep, and provides a revised Sleep Score for enhanced accuracy. Cycle tracking offers insights into hormonal fluctuations and their impact on sleep, stress, and recovery. Furthermore, a new “Healthspan” data set analyzes nine metrics to calculate your “Whoop Age” and “Pace of Aging,” offering personalized advice for long-term health improvement.
The Whoop MG
After calibration with a traditional blood pressure monitor, the Whoop 5.0 can estimate blood pressure. The ECG feature detects irregular heart rhythms, alerting the user to potential issues. Future integration will enable blood test booking and results directly within the Whoop app.
Whoop Subscription Tiers and Pricing
The side of the Whoop 5.0
Whoop 5.0 introduces a tiered subscription system—Whoop One, Whoop Peak, and Whoop Life—with varying features and prices. All plans include the band with a lifetime warranty. The table below outlines the key differences (O = included, X = not included):
| Feature | Whoop One | Whoop Peak | Whoop Life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sleep, Strain, and Recovery | O | O | O |
| Personalized Coaching | O | O | O |
| V02 Max/Heart Rate Zones | O | O | O |
| Cycle Tracking | O | O | O |
| Healthspan and Pace of Aging | X | O | O |
| Health Monitor/Health Alerts | X | O | O |
| Real-time Stress Monitor | X | O | O |
| Blood Pressure | X | X | O |
| ECG and Heart Screener | X | X | O |
| Advanced Health Sensing | X | X | O |
| Strap | CoreKnit | SuperKnit | SuperKnit Luxe |
| Charger | Basic Wired | Waterproof Wireless PowerPack | Waterproof Wireless PowerPack |
| Price | $199 per year | $239 per year | $359 per year |
The full Whoop experience, including ECG, blood pressure monitoring, and Advanced Health Sensing, requires the top-tier subscription. Blood testing, while available across all tiers, incurs an additional cost. ECG Heart Screener and blood test availability vary by region. The Whoop 5.0 is available from Whoop’s website, Amazon, and select retailers like Best Buy.
