In a world where everything has adapted to technology, even health and fitness needs to take a turn to survive. As a result, two cycling simulator apps Bkool and Zwift, have been released to cater to an audience that prefers virtual connections and meetings over real-life ones. In this article, we shall compare Bkool vs Zwift and see which one is better.
So, why are we comparing these two indoor cycling training apps in the first place? There is a very obvious answer to that question. Bkool and Zwift are the two most well-known bike simulating apps in existence at the moment. Many people have asked which one is better because we all want to use only the best.
Truthfully, I have found both the apps to be very useful, and so, I want to share my findings of both the apps. These cycling simulators are fun and helpful at keeping us fit at the same time. But you don't need both so by the end of this comparison you'll know which one you need.
Bkool vs Zwift comparison
Before we get into detailed comparisons of the features and benefits of the two indoor cycling apps, let us find out what they are exactly:
Bkool
Bkool is a virtual bike simulator that allows you to enjoy outdoor riding without actually going outside. You can ride through real routes, climb hills, and set new challenges for yourself. It helps keep you fit and healthy and acts as a source of entertainment for you with plenty of group rides.
Bkool smart trainer will provide you with training plans and programs to set a fitness aim within your reach. Since there are many Bkool riders all over the world, you can play with them or challenge them in group rides. There is no rush with Bkool training platform, and it allows you to pace yourself fully and enjoy cycling indoors. You can take your own time and reach your fitness aims.
Pros Of BKOOL
Cons OF BKOOL
Zwift
Knowing how difficult it is to set time for cycling outdoors, Zwift has contacted top coaches and came up with over 1000 structured and custom workouts. With the help of these programs, you can start your fitness journey on your own time without the pressure of time constraints.
There are many places that you can explore in the Zwift universe. There are options for you to ride over deserts and climb mountains with volcanoes at the top. Zwift also knows how important it is to have support from other people; thus, they incorporate a whole online community with other riders around the world.
Pros Of Zwift
Cons OF ZWIFT
Pricing Comparison
The first question many people have is, how much does Bkool cost? And how much does Zwift indoor training app cost? When we compare the monthly price of Bkool and Zwift, we find that Bkool has a much lower price than Zwift. So this round, Bkool indoor training will take the win.
Bkool offers a free trial for one whole month. This means you can try out the Bkool app for an entire month without paying any money. Once this one month is over, you can continue using the app for $9.99 per month. That will add up to $119.88 for a year.
As for Zwift, they give only seven days of a free trial. Compared to the one month free trial of Bkool training app, what Zwift is offering is only 1/4th of Bkool's deal. On top of this, the monthly subscription rate for Zwift is $14.99 for a single month. That is $6 more than Bkool's monthly price.
However, you should read through the other points before settling on Bkool training app just for its low price.
Operating System Compatibility
When it comes to operating system compatibility, Bkool training app takes another win. The more an app allows itself to work on multiple systems, the better it is for the app to spread and go viral.
The developers of Bkool virtual world has made it available for iOS, Mac, Windows, and Android. These are the most common operating systems out there, and Bkool is compatible with almost any device when it comes to running the app.
You may also be interested in: The Best Small Exercise Bike for Your Home Workout Regimen
On the contrary, Zwift can run only on three operating systems. They are iOS, Mac, and Windows. This fact puts Zwift at a disadvantage because they miss out on many potential customers and cyclists who use Android devices.
Update: Zwift is now available for Android devices, Apple TV, and other iOS devices.
Functionality
The Zwift community is larger and more integrated. It allows a user to exercise with other members and enjoy the company of other players. The competitive atmosphere in Zwift is also very positive and encourages people to push themselves to their full potential. As such, zwift is best for racing and riding with other players in the Zwift universe.
On the other hand, if you want to set personal goals and achieve them, Bkool is an excellent app that will help you reach your aims. If you wish to have private training sessions, you can also opt for that. Or, if you want to enjoy and reach a group goal, you can always set your program to group programs.
Overall, there are some similarities with the primary purpose of these indoor cycling training apps.
Number of routes
The number of routes serves another victory for Bkool. Bkool has inbuilt maps and directions in New York, Copenhagen, and Bangkok. You can choose from these places to cycle in at your convenience. At the same time, if you want to add new maps, you can upload or create your own routes using their map developing feature.
On the contrary, Zwift routes are comparatively fewer in number. There are only three worlds as your choices. Within these three worlds, there are five individual routes you can take. Regardless of the smaller amount of maps and roads, the said routes have perfect and well-done designs.
Weather conditions
Different weather conditions do not necessarily mean that you will be able to improve your structured workouts. However, it does make your journey more fun and entertaining.
The Bkool app implements some advanced features like changes in weather like rainy and windy days to make it feel like real world rides. It also has a night mode that adds a hint of reality to this virtual world. Unlike Bkool, Zwift does not have any of these features. It is usually always sunny in the world of Zwift.
Avatar personalization
For both Zwift and Bkool, you can change how your avatar looks. However, the looks and physical features will depend on your level. The higher your level, the more options you have to personalize your avatar's looks. There is no difference between the ability to change your avatar in between the two simulator indoor cycling apps.
Compatible equipment
Zwift has written down a list of trainers that supports them. Regardless of this list, we believe that the app can run on most bike trainers and power meters as long as it is an ANT+ power meter. You can even ride it with a speed sensor.
Similarly, Bkool can run on all trainers and trainers. If you prefer going for the brand specific trainer, you can get a Bkool Turbo Trainer.
Offline workouts
Neither of the cycling simulator apps works offline. You will need a high-speed internet connection to use either Bkool or Zwift. If you do not have access to the internet, you will have to wait until you get a secure and dependable connection.
What are the main differences between Bkool and Zwift?
Bkool has a lower monthly rate as compared to Zwift. You get more routes on Bkool than you do on Zwift. Bkool also sells its own Bkool Turbo trainers at a comparatively lower price than other trainers. Ther are no Zwift trainers available anywhere in the market.
Zwift is better for riding and racing with other Zwift users in the Zwift community. On the other hand, you can have a more personalized training experience with Bkool.
Final verdict
Considering all the features and benefits, we can safely say that Bkool is a better cycling simulator app if you just need to train indoors. It is affordable, more personalized, and has a lot more advanced features. You can also get a Bkool Turbo Trainer to use along with the app.
However, if you want to be a part of a community, Zwift is the way to go.
Last Updated on October 14, 2023 by Daniel White