Best Step Counter App for Apple Watch in 2026
Discover the best step counter app for Apple Watch. Compare features, widgets, and accuracy to find the perfect pedometer for tracking your daily steps.
Steps Team•
Best Step Counter App for Apple Watch in 2026
Looking for the best step counter app for your Apple Watch? With dozens of pedometer apps available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This guide breaks down what makes a great step counter and helps you find the perfect fit for your fitness goals.
What Makes a Great Step Counter App?
The best step counter apps for Apple Watch share several key features:
- Accurate step tracking using the watch's motion sensors
- Native Watch app that works independently from your iPhone
- Complications for quick glances at your step count
- Widgets for your iPhone home screen
- HealthKit integration to sync with Apple Health
- Goal tracking with streaks and achievements
Top Step Counter Apps for Apple Watch
Steps: Workout & Pedometer
Steps combines accurate step counting with powerful features that set it apart:
| Feature | Steps App |
|---|---|
| Native Watch App | ✓ |
| Complications | ✓ (Multiple styles) |
| iPhone Widgets | ✓ (8 widget types) |
| GPX Export | ✓ |
| Yearly Insights | ✓ |
| Streak Tracking | ✓ |
| 23+ Workout Types | ✓ |
Why it stands out: Steps offers GPX export for your workout routes—a rare feature among step counters. Plus, the yearly insights feature gives you a Spotify Wrapped-style recap of your fitness journey.
Other Popular Options
- Pedometer++ — Simple, focused on step counting
- StepsApp — Clean interface with basic tracking
- Pacer — Social features and challenges
Key Features to Look For
1. Complications That Work
The best step counter apps offer complications that display your progress at a glance. Look for apps with multiple complication styles to match your watch face.
2. Widget Variety
Your iPhone home screen should show your steps without opening an app. The best apps offer multiple widget sizes and styles—from minimal counters to detailed progress rings.
3. Workout Tracking Beyond Steps
While step counting is the core feature, the best apps also track:
- Walking workouts with distance and pace
- Running with GPS routes
- Hiking with elevation data
- Cycling and other activities
4. Data Export Options
Want to analyze your data or share routes with friends? Look for apps that offer:
- GPX export for GPS routes
- CSV export for step data
- Integration with other fitness platforms
How to Choose the Right App
Consider these questions:
What's your primary goal?
- Just step counting → Any solid pedometer works
- Route tracking → Choose an app with GPX export
- Comprehensive fitness → Look for multiple workout types
Do you use an iPhone?
- Apps with great widgets add convenience
- HealthKit integration keeps all data in one place
Do you care about data ownership?
- Some apps let you export everything
- Others lock your data in their ecosystem
Common Questions
Does Apple Watch count steps automatically?
Yes, Apple Watch counts steps automatically and stores them in Apple Health. However, a dedicated step counter app provides better visualization, widgets, complications, and goal tracking features.
Which step counter is most accurate on Apple Watch?
Apps that use Apple's HealthKit data are equally accurate since they all read from the same motion sensors. The difference is in features, not accuracy.
Can I see my steps on my watch face?
Yes, with apps that offer complications. You can add a step counter complication to most watch faces for at-a-glance access.
Do I need my iPhone for step tracking?
No, Apple Watch tracks steps independently. Your data syncs to your iPhone when they're in range.
Why Steps is the Best Choice
Steps combines everything you need in a step counter:
- Beautiful widgets — 8 different widget types for your home screen
- Powerful complications — Multiple styles for any watch face
- GPX export — Save and share your workout routes
- Yearly insights — See your fitness journey summarized
- 23+ workout types — Track more than just walking
- Streak tracking — Stay motivated with daily goals
Get Started Today
Ready to find your perfect step counter? Steps is available free on the App Store with no subscription required for core features.
Track your steps smarter. Download Steps and start reaching your fitness goals today.