PROS:
* Very nice quality
* Robust app (so many links, videos, stats, and data)
* syncs with other health services (i.e. Apple Fit, Fitbit, Garmin)
* Easy to use
* Comes with an included travel case
CONS:
* Another subscription service ($19/month or $180/year)
* May not separate itself from other smart wearables enough for some
If you've come across this product, you might be wondering what it does. I certainly was. According to Lumen, they've created this device to help people improve their metabolic flexibility, which can lead to better workouts, improved sleep, easier weight loss, and an overall happier, longer life. While this may or may not appeal to you, it certainly appeals to me. As a tech lover, I've found that as I age, it takes more effort to maintain my health (I wish it were the other way around). Sleep has always been a challenging aspect for me to manage consistently, so anything that can help me improve my routine is a welcome addition.
So far, using the Lumen device has made me more aware of what I eat, how much I move throughout the day, and how I prepare for sleep. I own several health-monitoring devices, including a smartwatch that I wear nearly every day to track my workouts, stress levels, and sleep. Initially, I struggled to see the main differences between the Lumen and my smartwatch in terms of health monitoring. However, with the Lumen, you blow into the device, which provides more detailed information than just your heartbeat. It uses a CO₂ sensor and a flow meter to measure the CO₂ concentration in your breath, offering instant feedback on whether you're burning carbohydrates or fats for energy. This is something a smartwatch currently cannot do.
Using the Lumen before workouts or after exercise can help you understand how your body burns fat. Additionally, it provides daily nutritional goals, which can be beneficial for those who struggle with dieting, as many d
The presentation of the product is impressive. As soon as you open the box, you can see the quality and care that went into creating it. Priced at $199, it's reasonably priced, but considering its features, the cost may deter some potential buyers. After all, for a little more, you could purchase a nice smartwatch with various health features. On the other hand, the app is well-designed and far from basic. It offers numerous links and a wealth of information and articles to support your health journey, reflecting the careful thought put into the app, much like what you would expect from a membership service.
However, this is where some people may lose interest. Yes, there is a subscription for the app and the data collected by the Lumen device. In 2025, many of us are overwhelmed by subscription services and hesitant to add more. I feel the same way. When you consider that a gym membership can cost around $20 a month, it's hard to understand why connecting to an app costs $20 a month (or $180 a year). As with everything, the costs add up. When you factor in the $20 monthly subscription along with the $200 for the device, it becomes quite an investment. However, if you get into it and use it daily, I can see its value. Fortunately, I may not need to stay on top of my health as much as others, so using it daily isn't something I find myself doing.
Overall, I'm supportive of technology that helps people maintain their health, and Lumen is certainly doing that. While I may not invest in a membership, it's available for those who will find it helpful daily.