It’s been five years since Google officially acquired Fitbit for a reported $2.1 billion, grabbing hardware and software teams that also absorbed assets from Pebble, which Fitbit itself acquired in 2016. So, how have things changed? Well, for starters, Fitbit is now Google Fitbit. It’s not the most imaginative of name changes, and it hasn’t stuck in consumers’ minds, but the good news is that Fitbit devices remain some of the most user-friendly and welcoming fitness trackers available. This is especially true if you’re just starting, or reigniting, your fitness journey.
Fitbit’s dominance has waned slightly in the face of countless alternatives, but its affordable approach, user-friendly interface, and great styling make it one of the best wearable fitness brands. If you’re looking for a reliable step-counting, sleep-tracking monitor, you’re in for a treat—and thanks to Google’s stewardship, you can now even find a smartwatch with features to rival the competition. Here are my picks of the best Fitbit trackers, whatever your wearable needs are.
For more wearable recommendations, check out our guides to the Best Fitness Trackers, Best Smart Rings, and Best Garmin Watches.
Jump to
Best Fitbit Overall
Launched in 2023, the Charge 6 remains the best fitness tracker for most people. It’s the same slim build as its predecessor (the Charge 5), maintaining the bright AMOLED touchscreen, with an optional always-on display, and fortunately bringing back the physical side button. It monitors your heart rate, blood oxygen, and skin temperature, and it offers ECG and electrodermal activity scans to measure irregular heart rhythms and stress level insights. The largest upgrade on the functionality front is the new ability to connect Fitbit’s heart rate sensor to particular gym equipment like the NordicTrack treadmill or Peloton bike. In testing, its heart rate sensors held up well against the Oura ring. Battery life is also fantastic, with up to a week per charge.
The built-in GPS support doesn’t rival dedicated sports watches for accuracy, but it’s useful enough for outdoor activities. Plus, unlike those wearables, Fitbit dishes out detailed sleep data that is both insightful and actionable. Google’s presence has increased on the Charge with the useful additions of Google Maps and Google Wallet. You get all of this and more for less than the cost of Fitbit’s smartwatches.
Most Affordable Fitbit
Along with its budget price, the Inspire 3 also offers the longest battery life of the Fitbit lineup. A full charge will last you up to 10 days, depending on how much you use it. It is pretty similar to the Charge 6, except that it lacks a built-in GPS, and it only features 20 exercise modes (as opposed to Charge 6’s 40 modes, which I found to be excessive anyway). You also miss out on some of the other premium features, such as Bluetooth compatibility with certain gym equipment, the EDA Scan app for stress management, and NFC technology. If none of those qualities matter to you, I would opt for the Inspire 3, which is just as accurate as the Charge 6.
Read the full article here