Which VBT device is right for you?
A no-BS breakdown of the devices I've used, tested, or coached with. Sorted by budget, not by who pays me affiliate commissions (nobody does).
The short answer
If you're just getting started, download Metric VBT (free, iPhone only) and try it. If you want dedicated hardware that "just works," the Vitruve encoder (~$499) is the best balance of accuracy, ease of use, and price. If you coach multiple athletes or need research-grade data, the GymAware RS (~$2,000) is the gold standard.
Side by side.
| Device | Technology | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metric VBT | Camera (iPhone) | Free | Beginners, budget-conscious, trying VBT |
| Enode | IMU Sensor | Subscription | Multi-exercise tracking, wearable |
| Vmaxpro | IMU Sensor | ~$450 | Versatile testing, team sports |
| Vitruve | Linear Position Transducer | ~$499 | Individual athletes, coaches (1-3 athletes) |
| FLEX (GymAware) | Laser Optic | ~$499 | Accuracy-focused, GymAware ecosystem |
| GymAware RS | Linear Position Transducer | ~$2,000 | Pro coaches, research, teams |
| Perch | Camera System | $1,995+ | Gym/facility install, hands-free |
The Details
Device breakdown.
Free / Budget Tier
Metric VBT FREE
A free iPhone app that uses your phone's camera to track bar speed. Surprisingly accurate for the price (free). Tracks 60+ exercises, provides velocity, power, and bar path data. The catch: iPhone only, and you need a decent camera angle. Great way to try VBT before buying hardware.
RepOne ~$249
A linear position transducer at a budget price. Good entry point for dedicated hardware. The company has been more focused on their eStack product recently, so app development has slowed.
Mid Tier — $400-$500
Vitruve ~$499
This is the one I use with my athletes. Linear position transducer with excellent accuracy, intuitive app, and real-time feedback. Best balance of price and performance for individual athletes. Note: software costs are per device, so it gets expensive if you're buying multiple units.
★ BRAD'S PICK FOR MOST ATHLETES
FLEX by GymAware ~$499
Uses laser optic technology instead of a tether. Independent research shows it's more accurate than Vitruve. Compatible with GymAware's cloud platform, which means you can upgrade to GymAware RS hardware later without losing data. Great option if you want an upgrade path.
Vmaxpro ~$450
An IMU (accelerometer + gyroscope) sensor. More versatile than LPTs for non-barbell exercises and sport testing. Good for team environments where you need sprint, jump, and VBT testing in one device. Less accurate than LPTs for pure barbell velocity.
Pro / Research Tier — $1,500+
GymAware RS ~$2,000
The gold standard. Used by research institutions to validate other devices. Most accurate VBT device on the market with the most peer-reviewed validation studies. If you coach professionally or need research-grade data, this is the one.
Perch $1,995+ hardware, $3K+/yr software
Camera-based system that mounts to your rack. Hands-free tracking — athletes don't need to clip anything on. Best for gym/facility installations where multiple athletes train on the same rack. Expensive with the annual software subscription.