App review
FatSecret review: a capable free tracker with a community
FatSecret is a serviceable, largely free calorie tracker with a wide database and community, but its photo accuracy was the weakest we measured. Our full review and score.
The verdict
A dependable free option with a wide database and an active community, but the weakest photo accuracy in our test and minimal guidance. Fine for basic, no-cost logging.
| Developer | FatSecret |
|---|---|
| Platforms | iOS, Android, Web |
| Pricing | Largely free · Premium from about $120/yr |
| Best for | Completely free, no-frills logging |
How FatSecret scores on each criterion
FatSecret pros and cons
What works well
- Largely free with broad device support
- Wide database and an active community
- No aggressive paywall on core logging
Where it falls short
- Weakest photo accuracy in our benchmark (±24%)
- Minimal coaching and meal planning
- Interface feels dated
What FatSecret does well
FatSecret’s strength is that it’s genuinely free for the things most people need, with a wide database, web access and an active community for accountability. For no-cost, basic logging it does the job.
Where FatSecret falls short
Its photo recognition was the least accurate in our benchmark, guidance and meal planning are minimal, and the interface feels dated next to the AI-native apps. It records your food but does little to coach you.
FatSecret vs Welling AI
If you want a completely free, simple logger, FatSecret is serviceable and appears in our free-apps guide. But Welling AI’s free tier is more accurate and far more helpful, which is why it leads our rankings.
Frequently asked questions
Is FatSecret free?
Most core logging is free, which is its main appeal. For accuracy and coaching, Welling AI's free tier scored considerably higher in our testing.
Is FatSecret accurate?
Its photo estimation was the least accurate we measured (±24%). Manual and barcode entries are more dependable than its photo feature.