Body Fat % on Index S2 Smart Scale Seems Inaccurate

For me, "Fool me once, shame on you [Garmin]; fool me twice [with an Index S3 that performs similarly], shame on me."  

Agree, 5% or 7% error (on 100% actually, not 25%) is actually not so bad for an estimation based on a numerical model based on statistics, measuring a single proxy indicator... 

Well, I would not notice if my wattmeter pedals would be off by 5% or 7% (bet they are, depending on temperature, vibrations etc, and the readings from my Rally look considerably less noisy than the Vector 3), and frankly, I would not care.

The problem with the S2 is also that it is making that error where we're a bit sensitive,  BF %. Or would you care if your water % woumd be off by 5%?

But that is something the product development team should have been aware of and could have tested more thoroughly, which would have spared us (and them) much headaches and frustration. 

A lot of shoulda, coulda and woulda... S2 sounds like a lost case... 

1330442 said:

Question: (unlikely, but) anyone around here happens to have two Index S2? Showing similar readings, or disagree? Both far off, or different?

Just wonder if that is a hardware problem of some production batches, factory calibration issue, whatever.

I had my S2 scale replaced by Garmin with another S2. They both produced very similar measurements with BF% in 20-21% rage, so I really doubt it is a production issue. My actual BF was 13% when I tested it with a professional grade InBody scale. Using a simple tape measure method also gives me 13-14%.

Please add me to this case Garmin-Kevin.    Just bought mine Garmin Index S2 yesterday.   certainly would not do it if read the forum prior.   it scale showing fat % as 23. while it should not be more than 17% by measurements.   and  fitness age is 43 years when it was showing 20 based on VO2max before the scale was connected. 

thank you.  will be returning it.  this is unacceptable for the price level and brand.    

I will definitely be reading Garmin forums before I ever buy another Garmin product. Best review site ever. I am now stuck with a very sleek looking scale that does nothing accurate but measure weight. If I wanted to get my BMI or BF% with a formula, I could have done it myself.  What a waste of money and now it's way too late to return in. SO IF YOU ARE READING THIS BECAUSE YOU WANT A Garmin S2 Index, DO NOT BUY IT. PLENTY OF PEOPLE HERE WILL PROBABLY VIVE YOU A BETTER DEAL ON A SLIGHTLY USED.....What is a software update going to do to hardware that isn't capable of what it advertises??

I like this slogan: "SO IF YOU ARE READING THIS BECAUSE YOU WANT A Garmin S2 Index, DO NOT BUY IT."

I need to share this (don't know if is true).

I was informed that a young lady, which bought a S2 a year ago. Started a diet, she followed the Body % values, which were high!! This resulted that over time she started to starve herself, where she gained anorexia.

If this is true it is a shame and a pity, I hope she is fine.

I believe it. The same way I was believing my scale.  It messes with your mind and emotional well-being. Garmin might want to consider that. Being healthy and working out are supposed to be beneficial. The tools should guide you in your journey, not cause you harm, mentally.