Etekcity Apex Smart Scale (EFS-A591S-KUS): features, app and who it suits

The Etekcity Apex (model EFS-A591S-KUS) is a smart bathroom scale that records weight and a set of other body readings, then sends them to a phone app over Wi-Fi. It suits people who like to keep a regular record of their numbers rather than just glance at a dial.

What the scale measures

Etekcity says the scale provides 14 measurements, including weight, BMI, body fat and heart rate. Scales that estimate body composition typically pass a very small electrical signal through the feet and calculate figures from the result. These are estimates, best used to follow your own trend over time at a similar time of day, not as exact values. The brand notes that a standard scale can't show a change in muscle against fat, which is the point of the extra readings.

The colour display

A colour TFT screen shows your results and short messages on the scale itself, so you don't need to pick up a phone. Measurements sync to the VeSync app over Wi-Fi. Per the listing's FAQ, the scale powers off about 20 seconds after displaying your results, and the app may show "disconnected" until the scale is woken again.

The VeSync app and other services

The free VeSync app lets you set goals, log exercise and food calories, and see data graphs. Etekcity says it syncs with Apple Health, Google Fit, Fitbit, MyFitnessPal and Samsung Health, and that VeSync won't share personal information with third parties. One caveat: only body weight can sync to MyFitnessPal. The app needs iOS 12.0 or later, or Android 6.0 or later. You can also ask a voice assistant for your progress through the VeSync skill.

Several people, one scale

There are two routes. Each person can have a separate VeSync account, with up to five accounts paired to the scale at once. Alternatively, a household can share one account and create separate user profiles within it.

Accuracy and placement

The brand says an ITO coating (a thin conductive layer on the glass) helps the readings, and that the scale guides your feet to the right position. As with any scale, a hard, flat floor gives steadier readings than carpet. It measures 11.8 x 11.8 x 1.1 inches and weighs 4.3 lb. Firmware updates run through the app over Bluetooth.

Who it suits

It suits households who want a shared scale with phone tracking and several profiles, and people who already use one of the supported fitness apps.

What to check before you buy

• Your phone and apps: check the operating system version and that your fitness app is on the supported list.
• Wi-Fi: confirm your home network setup works with the scale's connection steps.
• Users: plan how many people will share it and which account option suits you.
• Medical devices: the listing advises consulting a healthcare professional before using it if you are pregnant or use an electronic medical device such as a pacemaker.
• Floor: consider where the scale will sit.

The short version

• A smart bathroom scale with 14 listed measurements.
• Colour display and Wi-Fi syncing to the VeSync app.
• Works with Apple Health, Google Fit, Fitbit, MyFitnessPal (weight only) and Samsung Health.
• Up to five paired accounts, or shared profiles.
• Body-composition figures are estimates.

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