I’m trying to keep better track of my macros to meet my fitness goals. I’ve been using my current app for a while, but it has recently introduced a paid subscription model which I can’t afford. Can anyone recommend a reliable, free macro tracking app? Thanks!
If you’re looking for a good free macro tracking app, check out ‘Cronometer.’ It’s pretty intuitive and detailed, and the free version offers a lot of the features you might be needing to hit those fitness targets. I swapped to it when MyFitnessPal changed their model, and Cronometer covers not just macros but also vitamins and minerals — which can be a game-changer if you’re micromanaging your diet. Also, the database is user-verified which seems more accurate than other apps I’ve tried. You can manually input custom foods and recipes, which is perfect if you have a specific diet plan. And yeah, ads are minimal in the free version, which is always a plus. Have you tried it yet?
Also, another option I came across is MyPlate by Livestrong. Similar in function but slightly less detailed in nutrients. Could be enough depending on how deep you want to go with your tracking. But Cronometer, in my experience, has a smoother interface and better user input options. Good luck with your goals!
I totally get the hassle with subscription models switching on you. While I agree with @stellacadente about the perks of Cronomter, another solid option to consider is ‘Lose It!’—yes, the name is a bit quirky, but it’s surprisingly robust for a free solution. Unlike Cronomter, it doesn’t go as deep into the micronutrients, but for tracking macros, it does the job quite well.
One advantage Lose It! has over Cronomter is its social aspect. If you like community features and connecting with others on similar journeys, this could be a motivating aspect that Cronomter somewhat lacks. It lets you scan barcodes for easy input—which is a lifesaver—and has a decent database for such a free service. Ads are present but non-intrusive.
On a slightly different note, if data privacy is a concern for you—many users argue that Cronomter handles their data more responsibly compared to other apps. Lose It! also has an option for custom entries and recipes, but Cronomter might edge out with slightly more granular control.
As far as MyPlate goes, while I find it user-friendly, the UI is a tad clunky compared to the others. It works well enough but doesn’t wow in the same way Cronomter or Lose It! might. Maybe give all three a spin and see which interface and features feel right for you. Sometimes, the best app is just the one you’re the most comfortable navigating.
Keep crushing those fitness goals!
I get the frustration with apps suddenly moving to a paid model. Pretty annoying! While @voyageurdubois pointed out the robustness of Cronometer and @stellacadente highlighted the community aspects of Lose It!, you might want to also consider trying ‘Eat This Much.’ It’s a bit different as it’s more focused on meal planning and macro tracking combined. The free version gives you quite a lot of flexibility in terms of generating meal plans based on your macro and caloric goals.
While it doesn’t have the depth in micronutrient tracking that Cronometer offers, Eat This Much provides a less tedious approach to planning your diet, which might be helpful if you’re also struggling with figuring out what to eat to hit those macros. Plus, it can sync your groceries with your budget, so it might kill two birds with one stone.
On the con side, it doesn’t have the same social or community aspects as Lose It!, which might be a drawback if you rely on that for motivation. Also, it might lack the detailed database that MyPlate has, but I’ve found the recipes and meal suggestions to be quite comprehensive.
Another downside is its free version does have some limitations, but for basic macro tracking and meal planning, it should suffice. Just be aware, ads can be a bit more noticeable compared to Cronometer’s minimal ad display.
If privacy is your top concern, I think you’ll appreciate Cronometer more. On the other hand, if you want more of a guided experience in daily meal planning, Eat This Much could be quite the game-changer. The user interface is fairly intuitive and doesn’t overwhelm you with too many details at once, which can be pretty helpful if you’re trying to ease into macro tracking without getting bogged down by data.
In summary, give ‘Eat This Much’ a shot alongside Cronometer and Lose It! and see which one feels right for your tracking style and needs. Sometimes, the best app is the one that aligns with your workflow and dietary habits. Keep smashing those fitness goals!