Different Power Meter Types | Power Meter Comparison

In this video, we dive into the four main types of power meters: crank arm, crankset, spider, and pedalbased power meters. Each type has unique benefits and is suited to different riders and bikes. Whether you're a competitive cyclist or a recreational rider looking to improve performance, understanding the differences between these power meters will help you make a decision about which one is right for you.

Crank Arm Power Meters
Crank Arm power meters measure the force applied to one or both crank arms (depending on whether you choose a singlesided or dualsided model). They’re a great entrylevel option due to their lower cost and ease of installation.

Advantages:
• Easy to install and compatible with most bikes.
• Affordable, especially singlesided versions.
• Simple and lightweight.
Disadvantages:
• Singlesided models only measure one leg.

Crankset Power Meters
Crankset power meters are integrated into the entire crankset, often measuring power from the spindle and/crank arms. These power meters often measure both legs and can provide data on your power distribution. Cranksetbased systems are popular with cyclists looking for more comprehensive data.

Advantages:
• Dualleg power measurement
• Additional data for those looking to get the most from their power meter
Disadvantages:
• More expensive than crank armbased power meters
• Requires complete drivetrain compatibility and not be easy to transfer between bikes.

Spider Power Meters
Spiderbased power meters are located in the spider which is the part that connects the crank arms to the chainrings. These power meters measure power through both the nondrive side and drive side of the bike. These are favored by riders for their versatility and compatibility.

Advantages:
• Many models to choose from. This means they are compatible with most drivetrains.
• Measures total power output.
Disadvantages:
• Installation can be complex, requiring specific compatibility with cranksets.
• Typically more expensive than crank arm models.

Pedal Based Power Meters
Pedalbased power meters measure force directly at the pedals. They are the most versatile in terms of transferability between bikes, making them a favorite among cyclists with multiple bikes or those who travel for races.

Advantages:
• Easy to transfer between bikes, making them ideal for multibike setups.
• Dualsided models provide detailed data on each leg’s power output.
• Can measure advanced metrics like pedal smoothness.
Disadvantages:
•Can be more expensive, especially for dualsided models.
•Pedals are more vulnerable to impact and wear.

Which Power Meter is Right for You?
Each type of power meter has its strengths, and the best one for you depends on your cycling needs, goals, and budget. Crank arm power meters are great for those just starting with powerbased training, while crankset and spider power meters offer more detailed insights for serious cyclists. Pedalbased meters, with their ease of transferability, are ideal for those who want flexibility across different bikes. At Power Meter City, we stock all these types of power meters from top brands to ensure you get the right product for your cycling journey.

0:00 The 4 Types of Power Meters
0:34 PedalBased Power Meters
4:59 Crank Arm Power Meters
9:19 SpiderBased Power Meters
13:39 Crankset Power Meters
17:45 PMC Custom Cranksets
19:05 Outro



If you're looking to invest in a power meter but aren’t sure which type suits you best, check out our detailed guides and expert advice at Power Meter City. We offer a wide range of power meters, from crank arm to pedalbased models, to suit every cyclist's needs. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more indepth reviews and cycling tips!