The best Bike Watt Meters are essential tools for cyclists looking to maximize their training, measure performance, and track fitness improvements. Once exclusive to professional cyclists, these devices have become increasingly popular among recreational riders, thanks to their ability to provide precise data on cycling effort.
The rise of indoor cycling and platforms has further highlighted the advantages of training and racing with power data. This surge in demand has fueled intense competition in the bike watt meter market, offering cyclists a wider range of options than ever before.
Through rigorous, independent testing, we evaluate bike watt meters based on crucial factors like accuracy, ease of installation, performance on the road and trail, and long-term durability. This guide presents the definitive list of the top bike watt meters available in 2025.
Our comprehensive testing process involves both indoor training sessions and outdoor rides. We meticulously compare data readings against benchmark power meters to ensure accuracy. We also assess the user-friendliness of installation and the overall robustness of each bike watt meter.
Below, you’ll find our curated list of top-rated bike watt meters. For a deeper dive into our testing methodology, you can read more about how we test bike watt meters. If you’re new to power meters and want to understand what factors to consider when choosing one, jump to our comprehensive buyer’s guide.
Editor’s note: This list was updated on January 3, 2025.
Top Bike Watt Meters in 2025
Favero Assioma PRO MX Power Meter Pedals
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Favero Assioma Pro MX power meter pedals
The Favero Assioma PRO MX power meter pedals stand out as exceptional off-road bike watt meter pedals, earning a coveted five-star rating in our rigorous testing.
Their data accuracy and consistency matched our reference-grade power meters, all while offering a more accessible price point. As pedal-based systems, the Assioma PRO MX pedals are incredibly convenient for swapping between different bikes. The build quality of the pedal bodies is also impressive, suggesting they can withstand the demands of off-road riding. Furthermore, the battery life is remarkably long-lasting. These pedals are strong contenders for the title of best off-road bike watt meter pedals currently available.
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Favero Assioma Duo Power Meter Pedals
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Favero Assioma Duo power meter pedals
The Favero Assioma Duo power meter pedals excel in delivering precise and consistent power readings for both left and right legs. Their design, with the power meter electronics housed in pods on each pedal spindle, ensures accuracy even when transferred between bikes.
These pedals feature rechargeable batteries, boasting a claimed 50-hour battery life. This rechargeable system is a significant advantage over many pedal-based bike watt meters that rely on disposable coin cell batteries.
Favero provides a dedicated smartphone app that simplifies firmware updates, battery level checks, and access to product support. The pedals come with Favero’s proprietary cleat system, similar to Look cleats. However, it’s worth noting that these cleats offer limited adjustability and can be somewhat slippery when walking.
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Garmin Rally RS200 Power Meter Pedals
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Garmin Rally RS200 power meter pedals
Garmin’s Rally RS200 pedals are notable as the first Shimano-native power meter pedals. Their compatibility with Shimano SPD-SL cleats makes them an ideal choice for cyclists already using Shimano road pedals and seeking a seamless upgrade to a bike watt meter system.
Our tests confirmed the accuracy of the RS200 Rally pedal readings. We observed a slight delay of a few seconds before data transmission began, which may only be relevant for track cyclists or hill climbers where every second is crucial.
While the price point is premium, it aligns with other high-end bike watt meters, and the RS200 pedals are class-leading in numerous aspects, particularly cleat compatibility and ease of use for Shimano users.
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Quarq DFour DUB Power Meter
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Quarq DFour DUB power meter
The Quarq DFour DUB is a spider-based bike watt meter designed for integration with SRAM’s DUB crank and bottom bracket system.
Thanks to the broad compatibility of SRAM DUB with different drivetrains, this power meter is compatible with virtually all drivetrains on the market and offers straightforward installation. Ensure you have the correct bottom bracket for your setup.
This bike watt meter measures the total power output from both legs and demonstrated accuracy in our testing, including its cadence readings. We noted a minor delay of a couple of seconds before data transmission to the cycling computer, which is typical for spider-based systems.
Although it may lack some of the advanced features found in other models, the Quarq DFour DUB provides all the essential data most cyclists require from a bike watt meter.
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Verve InfoCrank Classic
Verve InfoCrank Classic
The Verve InfoCrank Classic bike watt meter is built around Verve’s own crank arms, which are known for their exceptionally robust construction.
The accuracy of this bike watt meter is virtually flawless and remained consistent throughout our testing, with no data dropouts.
It boasts an impressive sample rate of 256 hertz, far exceeding the needs of most cyclists but offering incredibly detailed power output analysis for those who require it. The InfoCrank Classic also eliminates the need for frequent zero-offset calibrations, only requiring it when initially installed or after battery changes, making it a very user-friendly option.
Powering the unit are four coin cell batteries (two in each crank arm), providing a claimed battery life of 500 hours. While the cranks are heavier compared to some competitors and Verve’s chainrings don’t shift quite as smoothly as Shimano’s, the Verve InfoCrank Classic is an exceptionally reliable, robust, and hassle-free bike watt meter that provides highly accurate data, making it a true performance tool.
Wahoo PowrLink Zero
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Wahoo Speedplay Powrlink Zero power meter pedals
The Wahoo Powrlink Zero Speedplay power meter pedals bring watt measurement capabilities to the Speedplay pedal range. Our testing confirmed the accuracy of their power data, holding up well against market-leading competitors.
However, the PowrLink Zero pedals provide left/right balance data but do not offer advanced power metrics such as pedal smoothness and torque effectiveness.
Installation and pairing with apps and bike computers are straightforward. Setting up and adjusting the Speedplay cleats, however, can be less intuitive. Replacement cleats are also relatively expensive. Existing Speedplay users will appreciate the pedals’ wide range of float. Clipping in and out may feel less natural for those unfamiliar with the Speedplay system.
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Also Consider…
The following bike watt meter achieved a rating below four out of five stars in our tests, preventing its inclusion in our primary list. However, it may still be a suitable option depending on your specific needs and priorities.
Power2Max NG Road Power Meter
Power2Max NG Road
The Power2Max NG Road is a modular, spider-based bike watt meter system adaptable to a wide range of cranks and chainrings for both road and off-road cycling. It offers good battery life and a generous warranty.
On paper, this premium bike watt meter appears impressive. However, our testing revealed some minor drawbacks that impacted its overall rating.
While generally user-friendly and reliable, we encountered issues with the zero-offset function and occasional power spikes. Although these spikes didn’t compromise our overall confidence in the data accuracy, which was generally good, they could be disruptive during shorter, high-intensity intervals.
Despite these minor issues, the Power2Max NG Road has many positive attributes. However, numerous other bike watt meters currently available offer a more seamless experience without the issues we encountered.
How I Test the Best Bike Watt Meters
Simon von Bromley – Senior Technical Writer
As BikeRadar’s lead bike watt meter tester for several years, I also have extensive experience in reviewing smart trainers, which also measure power output.
My bike watt meter testing methodology considers accuracy, ease of installation, on-bike performance, and expected long-term durability.
I employ a cross-referencing approach, comparing bike watt meters from different brands against each other. This allows me to thoroughly evaluate their claimed accuracy levels in real-world conditions.
Each bike watt meter undergoes a series of indoor and outdoor rides to validate data consistency and reliability. During indoor testing, I simultaneously measure power from three sources: two on-bike watt meters (e.g., pedal and crank-based systems) and an Elite Direto XR smart trainer. This setup helps identify any outliers or inconsistencies in data readings across different devices.
For outdoor testing, I always use two on-bike watt meters concurrently, again utilizing systems that measure power at different locations on the bicycle. This enables me to compare power output graphs across rides and determine the consistency of data readings.
Through extensive testing and accumulated ride data, I build a comprehensive body of evidence to confidently assess whether a bike watt meter consistently delivers accurate and trustworthy data that cyclists can rely on for training and performance analysis.
Why You Can Trust BikeRadar
BikeRadar has been a leading authority on bikes and cycling technology since 2007, dedicated to providing the best cycling advice globally.
Our team of experts rigorously tests all types of bikes, components, apparel, and accessories, covering everything from road, mountain, and gravel bikes to commuting, bikepacking, and electric bikes.
Our reviews are always editorially independent, without exception. Our reviewers conduct thorough real-world testing of all products, considering performance, value, and the broader market context when forming verdicts and assigning review ratings.
We offer over 15,000 product reviews, along with expert guidance on buying, maintenance, training, skills, health, and fitness related to cycling.
Our annual Bike of the Year testing is a recognized industry benchmark, and the BikeRadar team comprises some of the most experienced riders and product testers in the cycling industry.
Bike Watt Meter Buyer’s Guide | How to Choose the Right Power Meter for You
SRAM Red AXS Power Meter cranks on the Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL7 Red eTap ASX road bike
Purchasing a bike watt meter can be a complex decision, given the wide array of brands and models available at various price points. You’ll encounter single-sided and dual-sided options, and must decide on the optimal location for the unit to measure power on your bike.
Manufacturers often make intricate claims, making it crucial to distinguish between marketing hype and genuine performance. Accuracy is paramount for any measurement device. Following accuracy, ease of use and reliability are key considerations.
While prices have decreased, a bike watt meter remains a significant investment. However, a well-chosen bike watt meter should provide years of dependable service and valuable training data. Fortunately, we’re here to guide you through the selection process.
What is a Bike Watt Meter?
A bike watt meter is essentially a sophisticated set of scales that measures your power output. It calculates this by multiplying torque (the force you apply to the pedals) by cadence (the speed at which you pedal – revolutions per minute).
Power is measured in watts (one watt equals one joule per second), providing a precise measurement of the energy you exert through the pedals at any given moment.
This data enables you to calculate training load, target specific effort levels within your training zones, monitor fitness improvements, estimate calorie expenditure, and more. When combined with data from a cycling computer and heart-rate monitor, a bike watt meter becomes an incredibly powerful tool for informed training and performance enhancement.
Do You Need a Bike Watt Meter?
Tokyo 2020 women
Bike watt meters are currently very popular and represent a significant technological advancement in road cycling. But do you truly need one for your cycling pursuits?
Primarily, a bike watt meter is a tool designed to improve training and racing performance. If you don’t intend to train with power to structure your workouts, assess your fitness through tests like FTP or Critical Power, or use power data for pacing during races or challenging rides, then a bike watt meter may not be a necessary expenditure.
However, you might simply be curious about measuring your power output compared to other cyclists, and there’s nothing wrong with that motivation. For those serious about performance gains, a bike watt meter is an invaluable asset.
How Do Bike Watt Meters Work?
Rotor 2INpower SL power meter crankset
Bike watt meters generally operate by measuring the force applied to a component (pedal axle, crank arm, or spider) using strain gauges. They then convert this force into power by multiplying it by the angular velocity (cadence) of that component. As mentioned, power is expressed in watts.
This data is transmitted wirelessly to a head unit via the ANT+ wireless protocol, and some bike watt meters also include Bluetooth for smartphone pairing.
Most bike watt meters are relatively user-friendly. Initial setup involves pairing with your head unit, after which you simply ride. On subsequent rides, your head unit will automatically recognize the bike watt meter and display data as soon as you start pedaling.
However, most bike watt meters require periodic zero-offset calibration to ensure they accurately register zero power when no force is applied to the pedals.
Bike Watt Meter Types: Crank vs Spider vs Pedal Power Meters
Favero Assioma power pedals
If you’ve decided to invest in a bike watt meter, the next step is to determine its placement on your bike. Crank-based, spider-based, and pedal-based bike watt meters are the most common types.
Your cycling style and any component compromises you’re willing to make will largely influence your choices. If you only require power data on a road bike, you have numerous options. If you need to use the same bike watt meter across multiple bikes and disciplines, your choices become more restricted.
For instance, a bike watt meter integrated into road bike pedals wouldn’t be ideal for use on a gravel bike or mountain bike.
Quarq DFour DUB power meter
Ultimately, the perfect bike watt meter that suits every bike and riding style doesn’t exist. There’s no universal solution.
Consider crank-based and spider-based systems versus pedal-based options. Pedal threads are standardized across almost all cranksets, allowing pedal-based bike watt meters to be installed on nearly any bike without modifications.
Conversely, a crank-based or spider-based bike watt meter might necessitate changing your bike’s bottom bracket for compatibility with the new axle. If you intend to measure power on multiple bikes, the cost of converting them all to a uniform bottom bracket standard can quickly escalate.
Crank swaps also take slightly longer than pedal swaps between bikes. Furthermore, the bolt-circle diameter of crank-based meters might be too large for mountain bikes if you want to use chainrings smaller than 34 teeth.
However, pedal-based bike watt meters limit you to the pedal body types they support. Some models may only offer one road pedal standard, and even interchangeable body models might not accommodate every cleat and pedal system.
Bike Watt Meter Accuracy
Favero Assioma Pro MX versus Stages Ultegra R8000 LR versus Elite Direto XR power meter comparison chart
Most manufacturers claim their bike watt meters have an accuracy of +/- 1 to 2 percent. Typically, more expensive bike watt meters claim tighter margins of error, although this isn’t always the case.
Discrepancies can occur between claimed and actual accuracy, which is why we rigorously test bike watt meter accuracy. Consistency is equally crucial.
A consistently inaccurate bike watt meter is like a ruler with an imprecise scale. It might be usable in isolation, but not for comparisons with other measurements. If you upgrade to a different bike watt meter later, using an inaccurate one previously can render historical performance comparisons meaningless.
Similarly, if inaccuracy results in underestimating your actual power, you could be at a disadvantage when racing on Zwift or other indoor cycling platforms.
Head Unit Compatibility
FTP workout on a Wahoo Elemnt Bolt bike computer
Once you have a bike watt meter, you’ll need a device to capture the transmitted data. While many brands offer smartphone apps for data recording, a dedicated ANT+ compatible bike computer is a superior option.
Opt for a bike computer with a reasonably large screen to display all the desired data fields clearly.
How Much Should You Spend on a Bike Watt Meter?
Stages Ultegra R8000 LR power meter crankset
As with most products, more affordable bike watt meters often involve compromises compared to pricier models. A common compromise is single-sided power measurement.
Single-sided bike watt meters measure power from only one leg (typically the left), doubling this value to estimate total power. Requiring fewer electronics, they are typically less expensive.
However, the accuracy of total power data from single-sided systems depends on your left/right leg power balance. If your right leg is stronger, a left-only bike watt meter will underestimate your total power, and vice versa. This can reduce the accuracy of performance metrics like personal records, training load, and calorie estimates. It can also put you at a disadvantage in virtual races unless you have a more accurate power source, such as a high-quality smart trainer.
True dual-sided bike watt meters, which measure power independently from each leg, are generally more expensive. Spider-based systems often occupy a mid-range price point. Ultimately, the significance of these factors depends on your training goals and budget.
What Cycling Data Do You Need?
Smon von Bromley riding a Giant TCR Advanced Pro Disc on a hill
Beyond basic power output and cadence, advanced bike watt meters offer more detailed metrics.
Left/Right Power Balance
Left/right power balance measures the power contribution from each leg as a percentage of your total power output. True dual-sided bike watt meters use separate sensors for each leg, providing precise total power and balance data.
If you have a significant imbalance, potentially due to injury or bike fit issues, dual-sided bike watt meters can help you identify and address it. Minor imbalances are common and can fluctuate during rides due to fatigue or effort level.
Pedal Smoothness
Pedal smoothness quantifies the evenness of force application throughout each 360-degree crank rotation. A perfectly smooth pedal stroke would register 100 percent. Most cyclists achieve between 10 and 40 percent.
While some claim improving pedal smoothness enhances performance, a 100 percent score isn’t desirable. Optimal pedaling emphasizes the downstroke to maximize engagement of larger muscle groups like glutes and quadriceps.
Torque Effectiveness
Torque effectiveness measures the proportion of force effectively propelling the pedals forward. Expressed as a percentage for each leg, 100 percent would mean all force contributes to forward motion, which is practically difficult to achieve.
Cycling coaches recommend aiming for torque effectiveness above 60 percent. Improving this metric is believed to enhance pedaling efficiency.
Post-Ride Data Analysis
Power / heart rate data comparison of Garmin Epix Pro smartwatch and Garmin HRM-Pro Plus chest strap
After your ride, you’ll need software to analyze your data. Numerous excellent cycling apps are available. These programs help calculate training load, track progress, monitor calorie burn, review personal bests, and more.
Garmin Edge users can leverage Garmin Connect, a free platform offering easy-to-understand metrics and insights into fitness and training status. Strava offers similar features to premium subscribers. TrainingPeaks is ideal for cyclists following structured training plans, providing in-depth analysis tools for personal and coach monitoring. Golden Cheetah is a free offline software suite with extensive data analysis capabilities.
