While there are countless diet plans to choose from, most experts agree that you can lose weight by consuming fewer calories than you expend through exercise and daily activities. Electronic calorie counters offer an effective way to track the calories you eat, and are often about the same size as a calculator. These devices include nutritional data for many different types of foods, and most can be updated as recipes change. As you compare electronic calorie counters, consider features such as database size, storage, input methods and display quality to find the best unit for your needs.
Step 1
Choose your calorie counter based on the list of included foods and nutritional data. The larger the database of food information, the more likely you are to find accurate calorie counts for your favorite foods. Check the type of information included for each type of food, such as calories, fat, vitamins and minerals, and make sure you are able to track data in categories that matter to you. For instance, if you are counting carbohydrates, find a unit that includes this data along with the calorie counts. Make sure the counter allows you to add new foods to the database as needed.
Step 2
Review the various features and options on each device. Compare the length of time that the calorie counter will store your information. Many offer a full year of storage, which allows you to look back and track your progress. Some units also allow you to track your daily exercise while others include spots for a food journal or fitness goals. Select a calorie counter that offers all the features you need without including too many extras that can make the device too complicated.
Step 3
Try the various input options on each unit (stylus, touch screen, standard keypad) before buying to determine if you can use these features comfortably and accurately.
Step 4
Check the size and portability of each unit. The most basic calorie counters are the size and weight of a pocket calculator, while others are much larger. Find a unit that will fit in your purse or pocket so you will be more likely to carry it with you and use it throughout the day.
Step 5
Visit a local sporting goods store or health food store to try different calorie counters before buying. Compare the display quality of each device, and choose between black-and-white or color screens. Check for clarity, brightness and display size to find a unit that's easy to read.
Step 6
Look to see how the device is powered. Some calorie counters use standard batteries, which can get expensive over time. To save money and reduce waste, stick to rechargeable models that plug into a standard wall outlet. Make sure the device has a battery backup to preserve your data when the main power supply runs dry.
Step 7
Decide if you want a calorie counter that connects to your computer. Some units connect via a USB cord, allowing you to download your data or update your device. Others offer no connectivity. While these calorie counters may be more economical, they will likely become outdated fairly quickly due to lack of updates.
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