Update 10/31/24. Have you heard of the Shape Scale? Ads for Shape Scale are all over social media. The Shape Scale is a “3D Body Scanning Scale & Fitness Tracker that visualizes fat loss and muscle gains.” The company that makes it says it's the “First scale that scans you in 3-D” which “shows your losses and gains” with “3- heat-maps.” In this Shape Scale review, you will discover the science behind how it's supposed to work, the research, and the downsides, including the price and customer complaints.
1 What Is The Shape Scale?
When you step onto the Shape Scale, a mechanical arm extends and rotates around you 360 degrees, taking hundreds of pictures. This provides a three-dimensional image of your body. The idea is that by using the Shape Scale at regular intervals (say, every few months), you can better understand how your body is changing.
The confusing part of the Shape Scale website and ad was the reference to how it gave “access to new localized metrics. No more tedious fat calipers or tape measures or Fat calipers.” Again, I wondered if this machine measured body fat.
Shape Scale Video
Watch on Youtube if you prefer.
2 Does Shape Scale Measure Body Fat?
Not directly. Despite the wording on the website, the Shape Scale does not directly measure body fat. So it’s not technically the same as:
- Underwater weighing
- Bioelectric impedance
- DEXA scans
- Skinfold calipers
The idea behind the device is that as you use the Shape Scale over time, you can see how your body changes. Areas that are getting smaller are associated with fat loss, while those areas that are getting bigger or more defined are associated with gaining muscle.
Associated is the big word in that statement. Because ShapeScale doesn’t directly measure body fat, the idea of gaining muscle or losing body fat is an assumption. True, there is some evidence for this, which is summarized below, but it’s an assumption nonetheless.
3 Does ShapeScale Measure Visceral Fat?
Visceral fat is the fat in and around internal organs. This type of fat is often associated with diseases like diabetes and heart disease. The idea is that less visceral fat means fewer health problems.
The Shape Scale does not directly measure visceral fat. On their FAQ page they say this: “Since ShapeScale does not use x-rays, ultrasound or magnetic fields to determine your body fat, we cannot accurately determine your visceral body fat as accurately as a DEXA/DXA, Sonographic or CT scanning device may do.”
4 Can It Tell The Difference Between Fat and Lean Mass?
ShapeScale estimates body composition changes over time. It does not do this the same way as other body composition tools. By taking hundreds of pictures, it provides information on how the body is changing.
- Areas that are getting bigger are indicative of muscle building.
- Areas that are getting smaller are associated with fat loss.
The Shape Scale website does list research to back up its claims on the accuracy of 3D body composition. Here's a quick breakdown of some of the research.
5 Shape Scale Research
One small study (39 healthy people) published in 2016 compared the Fit 3D scanner (Fit3D.com) to:
- DEXA
- Air displacement (The Bod Pod)
- Tape measurements
These researchers noted a “strong correlation” between 3D imaging and tape measurements and a “moderate agreement” with predicting visceral fat development. Having a strong correlation means the Fit 3D Scanner was not significantly better than the other methods.
In another investigation, 3D body imaging technology was seen as effective in predicting abdominal obesity. This study involved 122 men and women. While predicting abdominal obesity is nice, you can also see this with your eyes too.
In a third investigation, involving 92 people (age 6 – 83 years) weighing between 52 -400 pounds, 3D scanning data was not significantly different (that's good) from body fat percentages obtained from underwater weighting, which is sometimes called the gold standard of body composition analysis. Only 63 of the 92 people in this study were weighed underwater.
My Thoughts On The Research
Here's what I think:
Some research suggests that 3D body scanning may accurately estimate and predict body fat and abdominal obesity.
While the technology is probably accurate for many people, when I see phrases like “strong correlation,” “predicting,” and “agreement,” it says to me there will be some degree of error.
That said, there is also a degree of error with bioelectric impedance, which is the most popular way of estimating body fat in most health clubs.
One possible problem with the research is most of the studies I saw involved healthy people. Would ShapeScale be accurate for people who are not healthy? For example, would it accurately predict muscle and fat in people who have:
- Cancer
- Multiple sclerosis
- HIV/AIDS?
I hope researchers will look at this. If it's proven effective in populations like these, ShapeScale would be an easy and effective tool for tracking progress in clinical settings. For me, this is the most attractive aspect of this technology.
6 What Is Body Shape Index?
Many people have heard of BMI—body Mass Index—which, in the general population, is associated with percent body fat and many disease states. However, the BMI is less likely to predict the percent body fat in heavily muscled individuals like bodybuilders and other athletes. BMI also falls short in elderly populations too.
Because of this limitation, the Shape Scale also provides another measurement called the Body Shape Index (also called ABSI). Body Shape Index is a value (a number) that includes BMI, body circumference, and height.
The math is a little more complicated than calculating BMI, but some evidence suggests it may be a better predictor of health -and mortality.
For example, in a study involving over 14,000 people, Body Shape Index was found to be better than both Body Mass Index and waist-to-hip ratio, at predicting death.
Another study noted that Body Shape Index was associated with higher LDL and insulin levels. Both of these are strongly linked to heart disease and type II diabetes. That said remember, Body Shape Index does not directly measure LDL or insulin, as these are blood values. The only way to test them accurately is with a blood test.
The research so far is pretty interesting. Whether it's ultimately proven to be the best will require a bit more research. Either way, the Body Shape Index will surely be getting a lot of attention in the future.
Use this free tool to calculate your Body Shape Index now.
7 Shape Scale and White Fat vs. Brown Fat?
There are different types of fat in the body. Brown fat, because it burns more calories than white fat, is more highly coveted. The idea is that the more brown fat we have, the higher our metabolic rate is. In this way, brown fat may play a role in weight loss.
Can Shape Scale tell the difference between brown fat and white fat? There is no proof of this as of yet.
In theory, if the ShapeScale was able to tell the difference between brown fat and white fat, this would be huge. It's definitely something for the makers of this product to take a look at.
The book, The Secret Life of Fat has a nice review of all things to do with fat research.
8 How Much Does ShapeScale 3-D Body Scanner Cost?
If you decide to purchase a unit outright, the cost is a whopping $9,780! No doubt about it, this is a very pricy body fat gizmo and is significantly more than the original price of $499 which was stated back in 2018. Another option is to lease the ShapeScale for $199 per month. If you decide to lease it, you will also pay a $99 set up fee. This fee is waived for those who purchase the device.
If you lease the machine, you can use it with up to 250 monthly users for an additional cost of $399 per month.
Those who purchase ShapeScale have lifetime access to their cloud service, which stores data for up to 250 active users monthly. If you will be using it with more than 250 monthly users, you have the option to pay $300/month if using it with 251-500 users and $600 per month if you want to measure body comp in 501 to 750 monthly users.
What constitutes “lifetime access” is not defined. Is it the life of the unit? If yes, how long will the device last with normal daily operation?
The website states that ShapeScales typically ships within 3-5 business days. However, customers have waited years for their devices to be delivered.
9 ShapeScale Refunds
With both purchases and leases, ShapeScale has a 45-day refund period. The company will provide a free shipping label and instructions on returning the unit.
10 ShapeScale vs. The Competition?
As far as I can tell, there really isn't anything else out there like the ShapeScale in terms of providing 3D visual feedback. The company does state that the device has been “validated” and “tested” in comparison to DEXA scans. They state that in a ShapeScale vs. DEXA study, shapescale had only a 3.46% error rate. The research, however, does not appear on the company website.
For those who want to pay less, Consumer Reports gave high marks to this body fat scale:
This scale costs a lot less than ShapeScale.
Another popular option is the InBody Scanner.
11 What Do They Do With The Data?
If ShapeScale stores our 3-D images in the cloud, what do they do with that information? Do they just store it forever? Would they ever share it with health insurance companies? In other words, could all this biometric data be used to track people? I'm honestly not sure, but I will give them the benefit of the doubt on this.
At 11-minutes into this TechCrunch Video, they address the privacy issue:
The idea of pictures of people stored in the cloud and potentially being hacked by bad guys is concerning and something everyone needs to consider when using this or any internet-connected device. I'd like to learn more about how the company protects private data/pictures.
Hacking notwithstanding, for now, I trust that the company is in the healthy living business, not the data-sharing business. If you have found any information that is contrary, share it below in the comments section.
12 Shape Scale Weight
The scale is pretty light, weighing only 30 pounds (13.6 kg).
13 How Much Body Weight Does It Support?
ShapeScale can support a person who weighs a maximum body weight of 359 pounds (160 kg).
14 Shape Scale Customer Complaints
Twitter. Shape Scale Customer Complaints from Disappointed Customers
From the comments below, it appears several people who ordered ShapeScale are having major problems receiving the device. Many customers have commented that they ordered the scale but have not received it. Some comments on this website go back as far as 2018.
Here is a snapshot from Twitter in May 2019. Read the comments below of many others who have expressed disappointment with not receiving Shape Scales they ordered.
The Better Business Bureau also has several complaints from people who said they did not receive their scales even after ordering it years ago.
To be fair, I have heard some are starting to receive the models they ordered.
15 ShapeScale Warranty
Each unit comes with a 1-year limited warranty.
16 ShapeScale Camera
The camera is 12 megapixels (this is greater than the original version, which was 5 MP)
17 How Long Will The Battery Last?
The lithium-ion battery can last for 50 scans between charges. It takes 4 hours to charge the ShapeScale battery fully. It comes with a 110-240 power adapter.
18 How Much Can You Weight?
You can weigh as much as 400 pounds (180 kg)without breaking the Shapescale.
19. Who Makes ShapeScale?
According to the trademark on the name, the company is Shape Labs Inc. According to the Better Business Bureau, the company is located at 1900 S Norfolk St Ste 350 San Mateo, CA 94403. This address corresponds to a large office building that likely houses several businesses. Call or text the company at 415-520-1316.
The BBB gives the company an F rating, and it is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau. The BBB listed two customer complaints for shape scale posted in 2024
Source: Better Business Bureau
In the first complaint, posted on September 4, 2024, the customer states that he had not received his unit, which was purchased on August 23, 2024, and that calls and texts to the company went unanswered.
The second complaint was posted on January 31, 2024. This customer claims to have paid $199 per month since 2017, when the ShapeSale was ordered but has not received the device since then. This customer also claims that the company does not respond to calls or emails.
See the BBB file for more insights.
20 Contact Shape Scale
The company can be contacted by phone or text at 415-520-1316. There is “contact us” page on the company website too.
21 Shape Scale Pros & Cons
Here is a quick summary of my opinions on the pros and cons. Your opinions may be different.
| Pros | Cons |
| Impressive design | Multiple customer complaints |
| May estimate body fat | Customers complain not receiving Shape Scales they ordered |
| Poor BBB rating | |
| Customers report not being able to contact the company | |
| Very expensive |
22 Is Shape Scale Worth The Money or a Ripoff?
There's no doubt the ShapeScale sounds like a snazzy device. As such, the fitness center or personal trainer who owns one of these devices will be ahead of the curve. However, given the exorbitant price tag, the Shape Scale cannot be recommended. While gyms may be able to absorb the cost, typically self-employed personal trainers should think carefully before making this investment. Most concerning, however, are the multiple customers who have commented here and elsewhere about not receiving the Shape Scales they ordered – sometimes after making their purchase years ago!
Other Fitness Product Reviews
I am seeing Shape Scale ads on facebook and IG. Are they shipping Shape scale to customers? Has anyone recieved it?
I saw they also raised the price by a lot! I updated this review too.
I’m also one of the ppl that ordered 6 years ago. Let me repeat that. I pre-ordered in 2017. and it was supposed to ship in 2018.
After 5 years, no matter how they keep changing their pitch and they push some newsletters to make it look legit. I think it’s a scam that just keeps on giving (or taking).
Hope to hear from at least one legit person that says – yep, I got mine and it’s legit
Bob, I’m awfully sorry for what happened to you and others! There is no excuse for this. Have you (or anyone) contacted the company and asked for a refund? If yes, what did they say to you? I’m wondering if anyone has contacted an attorney about this?
Hi all.
I’d like to point out some things just in case anyone was still wondering if the Shapescale is a scam, and it is.
I first came across the Shape Scale as early as 2008, before I moved to the west coast. Back then, the cost of the device was $499, and the design didn’t pair with a phone app (iPhones were brand new tech), but you’ll download the data to your computer. Otherwise, it was the exact same product.
I didn’t bite on it then but saved the info for another time when I could more easily afford it. Then I forgot all about till around 2014 when I was cleaning out my browser bookmarks.
I was amazed that these units still hadn’t shipped and they were still taking pre-orders. It was pretty clear to me by then that this is a scam.
Has anyone ever physically seen one of these in operation?
It’s now 15 years later and apart from seeing a design update that now uploads to an app, the product is the same, the ads on their site are the same, and the price has more than doubled.
I’m glad I trusted my instinct back then and didn’t preorder.
The whole “preorder” concept I learned a long time ago when I bought a gym membership at a pre-rate of $100 for a gym under construction in a small shopping center. It sat there for months without any progress, then one day it was just empty. They never opened, they just took the money and ran.
Jamie, thanks for sharing. I noticed that the price has significantly increased to $1799 + a subscription price ($12.00/month or $9.99/month). I did not see the original prices ($499 or $399) listed on the company website. They do say Shape Scales will ship in 2023; its now september 2023 – has anyone received shape scale yet?
Joe, are you okay? It’s been another THREE YEARS and you’re still using language that implies people might start receiving the units they preordered any moment.
Why are you so stubbornly attached to the notion that this is a legitimate product? Their website is in a constant state of shipping in “now + 6-8 months”, and has been since 2016 or so.
What would they have to do (or continue to not do) for you to concede that this isn’t happening? Can you suggest a date in the future where you’d be willing to declare that this is nothing but a scam? How long is too long?
I wouldn’t be flogging this horse (still) if it wasn’t for the fact that this article starts by declaring that it is a REVIEW. It is not a review, because a product has to exist for you to review it. It is nothing more than a regurgitation of their marketing materials.
Seriously, throw a banner at the top saying that nobody has ever received a unit in almost NINE YEARS. There are zero YouTube unboxings, there’s nothing. And change the word “review” to something that conveys you can’t vouch that this thing will ever actually exist. Otherwise, you just look ridiculous.
I appreciate your feedback – I really do! When I write a review here on on my supplement review site, I try to give people the facts and let them draw their own conclusions. I believe people are smart enough to look at the facts and decide for themselves. People interested in a shapescale are likely business owners for the most part – so they are pretty smart. I’m sure people who paid for this thing are really angry. I know I would be.
I ended my review saying I thought Shape sale just looked like a camera, so it was nothing special. For those like you who are looking for more strong language here it is: I would not pre-order the shape scale or buy it if it ever comes to market. I don’t think its needed; its way too expensive and since nobody has recieved one yet after several years that a big red flag for me.
You’re still using language that implies you think that there’s a fair chance that this is going to exist at some point in the future, despite all logic and reason pointing to this being an obvious scam.
Businesses are run by people, and business owners make mistakes all of the time. The other thing about business owners is that they are usually in a hurry and their attention is divided between multiple things. This means that they are likely to benefit as much as anyone from the important facts being as close to the top of a body of text as possible. Your article is very long and the idea that everyone is going to read to the end and then read dozens of comments is a major leap.
Meanwhile, you insist on calling this article a review. A review has very specific connotations. It implies that you’ve had some significant hands-on time with something that exists. Regurgitating marketing material for something that doesn’t exist and calling it a review is the opposite of helpful.
If you care about your readers at all, including the people who only read the first 500 words and never read the comments (probably 95% of visitors) then just lose the word review and start at the top with a warning that people who paid have been waiting 7-8 years and nobody has ever received a single unit. Super easy and no more frustrated comments.
You don’t have to use “strong language”. Just state the most important facts first. Everything about this stinks, and it’s making you look like an enabler.
I’ve tried to have a meaningful and friendly discourse with you several times about this but there does not seem to be any common ground. While we can agree shape scale is not something that either of us would recommend, I won’t change how I write or the words I use.
I disagree with your definition of the word review. A review does not only mean having hands-on experience with something. Reviews that answer questions and/or put that information into a more user-friendly form, helps people make informed decision.
You are assuming that 95% of people never read the comments. You can’t know this and I feel it insults the intelligence of people in general – and business owners.
I’m not going to reply to the “enabler” comment – except to say it’s insulting.
We’re done here.
Thanks for the review. I’ve read the comments and I can understand the anger of others because I’m actually one of those customers (if you can call it that) who pre-ordered in 2017. I am still not sure if it is a scam because they give us updates like once a year to keep the flame burning. The updates include videos of the scale in the making and actions plan that make all of it seems like it is coming to life.
But this has been going on for sometimes now and even with those updates I am suspecting this might be a really professionally orchestrated scam where they hold onto people’s money for as long as they can profiting from the money’s interests only.
When people ask for a refund, they refund it to remain legit so the scam can go on. They probably get as many new pre-orders as people who are canceling so the ball keeps rolling. I mean, who can possibly call them out with proof that what they are doing is a scam? They could be well on their way to making a lot of money without ever releasing a product and never getting caught. New kind of scam?
I’m waiting for their next update before I throw the towel once and for all.
Anonymouscustomer, I feel so badly for everybody who pre-ordered Shape Scale. I hope you will keep me and everybody updated on how things are going with the company and the updates. I’m glad to hear the company continues to give refunds. Given how long this has been going on, if it were me, I’d consider asking for a refund. Given all the uncertainty in the world these days, it may be better to have the money in your hand.
Early adopters have a lifetime subscription included which we lose if we get our money back. If we decide to buy the product if it ever comes out later, we’ll have to go for the annual or monthly plan. That’s how they keep us hooked with bi-annual updates that make it seems like the product is just around the corner.
None of us thought we were in it for 4 years. At first, it was just 1 year which seemed like a lot but whatever the product is cool, then it got pushed over little by little from biannual updates. Had we known it was going to be 4+ years from the start I doubt any of us would have paid.
I don’t want you to feel bad for me, I can afford to lose 299$. If anything, I think new laws should be made to protect customers and we should spread the word as much as we can about their tactics. Even if there actually was a product in the making behind all of this, there is nothing ethical about the way they are financing it.
Anonymouscustomer, I agree this is a sad situation all around. I feel just awful for what has happened to people. I’m glad you are able to absorb the loss of money if it comes to that. I keep hoping things turn around and you and everyone recieves the product you ordered.
I agree with everything JP has previously said in the comments. I did order this back in 2017, never received and at no point received “updates” from ShapeScale.
The reason I think this is misleading for readers is that it implies this is a review for a product. ShapeScale is not a product, it’s an idea that has been marketed as a product. But this product doesn’t exist.
P.S. I’m developing an energy drink that allows you to shoot lazers out of your eyes. Taking pre-orders for delivery in 2021. Just working with a beverage manufacturer at the moment to put the finishing touches on the secret formula. Stay tuned, will send updates. 🙂
Bill, did you ask for a refund? I would. I’ve said before, it’s not right to wait for years to get what you ordered. I disagree that the review is misleading because I did my best to give you an honest breakdown of ShapeScale based on what I could discover about it. In the tech crunch video, you can see a ShapeScale. That shows there was at least 1 device that was created. That said, as I’ve said before I feel awful for what people have been dealing with. If it were me, I would have asked for a refund a long time ago.
Let me know if you bring that laser beverage to market 🙂
Joe, did you accept payment or compensation of any kind to post this “review”? Given the army of people who haven’t received anything but vague excuses for 2-3 years after paying for a pre-order, why are you so quick to defend this company? Your review seems based entirely on information from the ShapeScale website, which you accept at face value and do little more than editorialize without adding information. In your own words, you aren’t basing this on your experience of using a ShapeScale.
Have you ever actually seen a ShapeScale with your eyes?
It is ethically gross for a company to continue to accept pre-orders for a product delivery window that is perpetually several months into the future. It would be fine if this was the result of demand and people were reporting receiving units. However, if you go on Twitter it’s impossible to find anyone who has actually received their device.
Many of them have been waiting patiently since 2016 and a huge number since 2017. How is this not a giant red flag to you? Why are you not leading off with a huge warning to not give these people your money?
It seems distinctly possible that there will be some combination of police raid and class action suit. You simply can’t keep stealing money from people in the light of day and never expect the party to end.
Meanwhile, the technical claims of the team are highly problematic. If you watch their performance at TechCrunch Disrupt, the judges actually called them out for trying to pass off a previously made 3D capture for a live demonstration. What I want to know is how a device that doesn’t come to your neck can create an accurate 3D capture of the top of your head.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXq1-zRjm5A
It’s not science fiction, just wishful thinking.
Hi PjForde, Let me upfront address your concerns:
I have not been financially compensated by ShapeScale to write this review.
I have no connection to the ShapeScale company.
I have not used a ShapeScale or personally seen one either.
My goal for the review was to present information about ShapeScale in a non-biased. I did use the shape scale website for information and believe I presented the information in a way that helped people find it quicker. For the record, while it’s an interesting device, I believe lesser expensive options are better like bioelectric impedance
I read all the comments posted here. I know people are frustrated. When I reply to comments I feel their frustration. While the original intent was to provide information in a straightforward way, it also gives people a place to vent their frustration and also share valuable information that others hopefully can use.
I did see the TechCrunch video when I wrote the review. I appreciate you listing it again. I looked at it again and I added the video to the review. It’s in the data privacy section.
Over a year later, still the same BS.
Why do you not have a huge red warning banner at the top of this page?
This has always been a scam, and so long as this sits here, it hurts your readers. Why are you still doing this?
PJforde1978, I wrote an honest review of the Shape Scale that included pros and cons. I don’t believe anything in this review hurts people who are looking for answers about this device. In fact, I believe it helps people. If you noticed I also included customer complaints. To further help, I updated the review after reading your words. People like yourself can provide additional valuable insights for those looking for customer experiences.
Have you tried to purchase a Shape Scale? Feel free to share your honest experiences.
I started *attempting* to purchase a ShapeScale in 2017, the day I saw their TechCrunch Disrupt pitch and knew that several of their claims defied the laws of physics; specifically, I had a primary interest in the 3D capture capacity and have been working in that domain since 2014. There is no way a camera that comes up to your chest can take a picture of the top of your head, for example.
I admit that I came very close to completing a transaction with them before all of the red flags convinced me that I was being scammed.
What’s vexing about your neutral, “I’m just a humble guy reviewing health stuff to help people” position, is that you’re burying the lede on the only detail that matters: this is a scam product that has never actually existed. The website only exists to steal money from vulnerable people. There is no pre-order because there is no production. They don’t even try to explain the delays anymore, because there’s always new victims.
You don’t even introduce the notion of “customer complaints” until a tiny blurb in the last 10% of the length of the review. Even that is disingenuous because these folks aren’t customers, they are victims of fraud. Joe… NOBODY has ever received a single unit! It’s not like a disgruntled minority. Seriously… go to eBay and search on “shapescale”. There has never been a single one listed, period, ever. How can you explain that with a straight face and still keep this post here?
You and I both know that most visitors will never read the comments. They skim the first bits, maybe watch a video, see on the website that the “next batch” is “shipping soon” and maybe give these criminals another few hundred bucks.
The only way to actually address this problem is to start the article with a bold disclaimer that there is ample evidence this product is a scam and that people should not give them money.
It’s not an unlucky group or a strong opinion. You can’t keep pretending that this product exists in good faith.
pjforde1978, I want to thank you for following up and you bring up a very interesting point that I missed- how is shapescale taking a picture of the head when it does not reach as far as the head? It’s a great point and I want to thank you for bringing attention to this.
I want to reiterate I have no connection to the Shape Scale company. I’m an exercise physiologist by training and for over 20 years have been educating people about health and wellness both here and at my other website SupplementClarity.com .
The Shape Scale is one of many things I have looked at over the years. With all my reviews my goal is not to write a “hit piece” but rather to present what I’ve found and let others make their own decision.
You say people don’t read the comments but how do you know that’s true? From the comments, I believe people are reading them. As for my “burying” the negative comments about the product, that’s your opinion – and not true. It’s how I structured the review. As I said previously after reading your original comment I did enhance this review with more info such as the company address, phone number, and better business bureau rating (it’s an F rating).
You say Shape Scale is a scam. Do you have solid proof -i.e., internal documents – to back up what you are alleging? That said, based on what people here have stated I believe those who preordered shape scale years ago should have their money refunded. If they have not they should take this to the FTC.
Question: has anyone had money refunded?
Joe, I am VERY happy this reivew is here. Where else can we learn whats going on if not from unbiased reviews like this and comments by all the others here who have shared their thoughts. BIG thank you to everybody here.
Tim, thanks very much for saying that! Your words are very much appreciated.
PJ, you assume people don’t read. We do. Give us credit. The review is divided well enough that it’s easily scannable too for those looking for negative customer reviews.
PJ, As I was responding to your recent comments, I noticed your 2019 comment and I apologize if I never responded until now. To answer your question, no person or company compensated me to write this review. I am not associated with the shape scale company in any way. I do not know anyone associated with the company. You call this a “review” as if to imply what I wrote is tainted somehow. You are wrong.
For some reason, I can’t seem to reply to the other comments you left today, Joe.
Look, folks: demanding that I prove a negative (are you seriously asking me if I’ve broken into their facility to steal documentation or something? you have to be joking) just suggests that we have VERY different ways of resolving cognitive dissonance. Nobody has received product, nobody can get a refund, there has never been a unit listed for sale on ebay or craigslist and you can find zero evidence of a normal person who has seen one. This has been going on for FOUR YEARS. Your response? Let’s see a stool sample.
If you and your buddy “Tim” want to give these people money or add legitimacy to a scam, knock yourselves out. I hear that the earth is flat, too. Best of luck with your lives.
PJ, When I asked if you had internal documents it’s because I don’t know who you are. You are making statements about the company that I don’t know anything about. Since you are making the statements I thought I would ask. You also said you had a background in 3D tech so for all I knew you might have that information.
PJ, You have brought up some very good points. I agree 100% it is wrong to take payments for ShapeScale and not deliver on those products. I would not preorder this gizmo based on the problems you and others here have brought up. I also believe people who ordered Shape Scale should be issued a refund if they request it from the company. From what someone here has previously said and from the complaints at the better business bureau, the company is issuing refunds.
I don’t know Tim so that’s an assumption you are making. Also, since you called out “Tim”, let’s be fair, you only identify yourself as “PJforde1978”. You can call yourself anything you like but don’t assume you know anything about the motives of someone because they disagree with you. You’ve been deprecating my character and motives from the start and all I have been is accommodating to you.
You are angry. I get that. I don’t like what is going on either. But I won’t be a bomb-thrower. The world has enough of those. People are smart enough to see the facts here and make their own decisions.
Best of luck to you as well.
Just wanted to chime in here to say 100% agree with PJFORDE on literally everything he has said. Joe, you are going way too easy on a company who hasn’t delivered a product for 4 years, keeps taking payments, keeps pushing out delivery non-stop, and hasn’t delivered to a single customer – all because you don’t want to be a “bomb-thrower”?
If this is the case fine, but then why write a so called review at all? It very much looks like you have product in hand and are reviewing it like it is an actual product – so even by “reviewing” this you are lending significant credence to its existence.
Asking for internal documents that this is a scam was beyond ridiculous. All available evidence suggests that this is a sophisticated and elaborate scam and yet you are giving an unknown, unproven company the benefit of the doubt and pushing the burden of evidence to prove otherwise. For what reason?
Reviews exist for the purpose of providing potential customers with information on whether to buy or not – not to give a company with literally zero track record and a non-existent product the benefit of the doubt. I think you are doing serious damage to your reputation and are allowing people to be scammed by leaving this review up in its current form and with very little warning to customers.
Cormac, I appreciate you sharing your viewpoint. I will reiterate I don’t know what’s happening with the ShapeScale company as I have zero connection to them. That said, I cannot see any reason why it would take years to deliver the scale to people.
Anyone who reads this review can easily see the complaints and better business bureau rating for the company. That alone should dissuade people from investing money in the product at this time. As I said in the review, I think ShapeScale is basically an expensive camera. It doesn’t directly measure body fat. Based on those, it would not be something I would recommend.
I don’t think I’m hurting my reputation. I wrote an unbiased review of this product. I believe you are smart enough to make your own decision based on the info you read here and in the valuable comments like yours.
Any updates on this product ? It SOUNDS amazing, but as we all know that’s not difficult to do.
Hi Simah, I have not heard anything new. Has anyone else ?
Your review is meaningless as all the info is from their website. It’s been almost two years since I invested in the product and it seems no one has one as of 1-19-19. The latest shipping date is 2019. Kind of vague there.
They seem to be paying lip service (poor at that) to their customers. The initial offering made no reference to being a fund me project or of a monthly fee. I would suggest that shapescale get on the ball before they are facing a class action lawsuit. If shapescale is not a scam then let your customers know something meaningful!
Steve, I respectfully disagree that the review is meaningless. I believe, I presented the information on Shape Scale in a user friendly/ unbiased way so people could decide if it is right for them. I’ve also provided a place for people to share their thoughts and experiences – as you just did.
I pre-ordered the ShapeScale back in Oct 2017 and paid the upfront $349 with the remainder $300 due when it shipped. I received the same reply in November of this year when I emailed Lilla from Shape Scale about a December ship date, and a delay due to hold ups by the manufacturer in China.
Yesterday I emailed her back that it’s now January and I would just like a refund of my $349 which she just processed today. So I will say these people are not ripping people off, as they were extremely responsive via email.
I just need the money right now and am tired of waiting. Hope this helps.
John, thanks so much for passing on this information. I am so glad the company is processing your Shape Scale refund.
Here’s the latest from Nov 4th email. Their website still advertises Batch 5 as shipping in Dec 2018 which is clearly misleading. Communication from the company has been consistently poor and I have only received information when I initiate. Recommend staying away until it’s confirmed they can ship and the product actually works. They seem to have no problem making promises they can’t keep.
Quote:
“Thanks for checking in with us! Hope you are doing great and had a nice weekend!
Our previous shipping timeline was as follows.
Batch 1: Start shipping in October 2018
Batch 2: Start shipping in late October/early November 2018
Batch 3: Start shipping in late November 2018
Batch 4: Start shipping in early December 2018
Batch 5: Will start shipping in late December 2018 / early January 2019 (depending on location)
But unfortunately we’ve been having some hold-ups with our manufacturer in China, which has caused a push back in these delivery dates.
Currently we don’t have any more specific information, but our team in China is working hard to sort everything out and as soon as we have some news from them, we’ll be able to setting up a new delivery timeline and sending out updates to all our customers.
ShapeScale is a complicated product, which makes its production difficult. However, we are still trying our best to get ShapeScale to you as fast as we can.”
C, thank you for posting this information. For what it’s worth, I’m not happy Shape Scale is made in China. This device can be made in America. How much more would Shape Scale cost if it were made in America?
I just called them and they said they were dealing with manufacturing problems in China but were optimistic to have an update in two weeks, which is mid November 2018. I spent the money so long ago I am not sure I really care and so I’ll be pleasantly surprised when or if it ever shows up.
Rex, thanks for sharing that update. China? Ugh. Don’t we make anything in the US anymore? I read a disturbing a book called China RX, about how China makes many of our prescription drugs. Just wish we would make more stuff in the US.
Keep us posted when it arrives. How long have you been waiting for your Shape Scale?
Surprised that you saw this and not naked mirror, which to be honest is a couple of years behind schedule too but at least they are finally shipping and on WSJ too.
Al B, Thanks for this. I have not heard of Naked Mirror body fat scanner. I will be reviewing it soon. Stay tuned.
Today is August 14, 2018. I just called their telephone number and got no answer. When I click on their website my iphone warns me that their website is unsafe and possibly attempting to access my financial information.
Hi Denise, I just went to ShapeScale.com on my PC and my iPhone but did not get any warning about their website not being safe. I tried their website with Chrome and Safari and it went through without any issues. Can you try it again and let me know what happens?
Spring 2018? You wish! This is the 2nd or 3rd time that they’ve pushed this back. I started having people email me about this after they presented at TechCrunch Disrupt in early 2017 when they were saying that they would have a product out in Summer 2017.
They got busted for faking the 3D capture demo and trying to pass it off as live when it will supposedly take 20 minutes. It would be pretty incredible for the machine to accurately 3D model the top of your head when the camera never raises past the height of an average person’s shoulder.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXq1-zRjm5A
The only good thing about that video is that the founder sounds like a dead ringer for Tommy Wiseau, the star of cult B-movie The Room. That elevates their presentation from cash grab to highly entertaining cash grab.
I made several attempts to ask for clarifications about these questions and more on their message boards. For a company that is too busy to respond to customer inquiries, they were incredibly responsive when it came to deleting questions that didn’t suit them.
Look, if you need a $500 bathroom scale so badly that you’re willing to ignore radio silence and a list of red flags, please don’t let me stop you. For the rest of us, I strongly urge you to call these people out as scammers.
PJ, thanks for your words and for the video. For those interested, at about 10 minutes into the video they start to talk about privacy issues. They also say it takes about 20 minutes or so to get the full 3D data and they are working on making that happen quicker. Maybe that is why there is hold up with deliveries?
Joe, thanks for posting this. I also cant seem to get a hold of the company. What the heck is going on??
Hi Sammy, I honestly have no idea. I want to think the Shape Scale company is on top of this. I can sense yours and others frustrations.
Thanks for this review! Ive seen the ads for Shape Scale and I cant figure out if its a scam or real
Hi Dan, I wouldn’t call Shape Scale a scam. It is a device which takes a 3D picture of you so you can track how your body is changing over time. Its not a body fat device though.
The ShapeScale did NOT ship in Spring 2018 as promised and customers have heard nothing from the company except quiet phone lines and unanswered messages sent online. A client of mine prepaid upon my recommendation.
PLEASE save your money until it has been verified that this is NOT scam and that, at best, it is just poor customer service, production delays, and ambitious release dates. At worse, many early adopters have lost thousands of dollars. Don’t become one of us.
Hi Janelle, oh I am so sorry to hear this has happened to you! I’ve heard Shape Scale has had some problems with shipping. I hope your client pre-paying for the shape scale did not put you in too bad a way with him/her.
Ive heard Spring 2018 was when they were going to start shipping Shape Scale. We are past Spring 2018 now. Has your client gotten it yet?
I agree there is no excuse for not answering the phone.
My client and I are still on good terms, but as of today, July 19, 2018, we have still heard nothing from the company for an order we placed in January 2018. I have read comments from others who placed orders in 2017 who are still waiting for information.
The reason I found your blog is because I was searching for a recent (2018) update from the company or a customer who had received their scale. I have not yet found one.
Janelle, thanks for the update. Ive seen online where others were talking about not getting orders. Yours was the first time Ive heard the company was not answering the phone. Have you tried emailing them at support@shapescale.com ? Another email for them I located is lilla@shapescale.com
I noticed it does say it comes with a “45-day money back guarantee once you receive ShapeScale. Refund any time prior to shipment date.” have you tried to get a refund?
There was no better bureau rating for Shape Scale Inc as of today. I’m really sorry you both have been having difficulties but am glad your client and you are still on good terms.
Did ShapeScale not ship Spring 2018? I have not seen one youtube review from any customers that would have received a Spring of 2018 shipment of the ShapeScale . Many people do “open box” videos of new products.
Orders now will ship December 2018.
Before ordering, wanted to see the Spring 2018 youtube customer reviews and have not found any.
Hi Jim, I was wondering about this too. I went to the Shape Scale website but didn’t see anything about when it would be shipping.
Thanks for the info! I’m very intrigued by this product and would love to give it a try (I may just consider this a gift to myself). I’m also a manager at a personal training facility and look forward to more info regarding a commercial version. I can see this helping with client retention as most people don’t see/notice their body changing and give-up on themselves too soon.
Hi Ana, glad you found my review useful. I agree I can also see how the Shape Scale would help with client retention too. I would not be surprised if some facilities started using it to help with that. At the end of the day, it is snazzy. BTW, I liked your website. I love those green walls! I saw in one of your pics, you also have the top of the line version Total Gym too. Very cool! 🙂
Thanks guys all your comments and information has made my search alot better so the big question is should i buy one ??
Hi Ben, how do you think the ShapeScale would help your business? That’s a nice website you have by the way.
Thanks. This is a great article. I’ve been contemplating getting one for the past month or so. However, I am a maximizer, so I continue researching until I am blue in the face. I will likely wait for its release, and look for personal reviews, to determine it’s cost effectiveness. It seems like an interesting gadget, but it’s effectiveness might not match it’s cost.
Hi Jade, thanks for the kind words on my review. I am the same way about reviewing stuff till I’m blue in the face before buying something. Its a gift and a curse 🙂 If you buy the shape scale, do let me know what you think of it.
My concern is unpublished maintenance cost. You pay over $699 for unlimited scans but:
Lilla Laczo (from Shape) posted: “*Mechanical parts in ShapeScale will be rated for a fixed number of cycles which will limit the number of scans before you need to replace those parts.”
Hi Jim, interesting comment. Do you have a source for that quote? Do you have a link to where it was posted?
I believe in FAQ. It’s on their site, as I read it
Thanks Bob.
It has been 5 months, do you know what the “rated for a fixed number of cycles” in the FAQ means in number of scans?
Thanks.
Jim, let me try to look into this. I tried calling Shape Scale just now as its a Saturday, I don’t think they were in the office. Ill try calling back Monday and see if I can get an answer to your question.