In the world of fitness tracking, Fitbit is a household name. Their products have helped millions of people monitor their health and achieve their fitness goals. Two popular models in their lineup, the Fitbit Charge 2 and Fitbit Charge 3, often leave potential buyers wondering which one to choose.
To help you make an informed decision, we’ll break down the key differences between these two devices in this comprehensive comparison.
Design and Display
Fitbit Charge 2
The Charge 2 features a slim and stylish design with a tap-sensitive OLED display.
The display is monochrome, offering basic information and notifications.
Fitbit Charge 3
The Charge 3 boasts a more modern, sleek design with a larger touchscreen display.
It has a full-color touchscreen, making it more vibrant and engaging.
The Charge 3 wins in the design and display category, offering a more contemporary and interactive look.
Water Resistance
Fitbit Charge 2
The Charge 2 is not waterproof but can handle some splashes and sweat.
Fitbit Charge 3
The Charge 3 is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming and water activities.
If water-related activities are a part of your routine, the Charge 3 is the better choice.
Activity Tracking
Fitbit Charge 2
The Charge 2 tracks basic activities like steps, distance, calories, and heart rate.
It doesn’t have a built-in GPS, relying on your smartphone for location data.
Fitbit Charge 3
The Charge 3 offers more advanced tracking, including sleep tracking, female health tracking, and guided breathing sessions.
It features a built-in GPS, providing accurate tracking of your outdoor activities.
The Charge 3 provides a broader range of tracking features, making it a versatile fitness companion.
Battery Life
Fitbit Charge 2
The Charge 2 offers up to 5 days of battery life on a single charge.
Fitbit Charge 3
The Charge 3 provides a longer battery life of up to 7 days.
If you prefer longer periods between charges, the Fitbit Charge 3 is the way to go.
Heart Rate Monitoring
Fitbit Charge 2
The Charge 2 offers continuous heart rate monitoring during exercise and throughout the day.
Fitbit Charge 3
The Charge 3 provides 24/7 heart rate tracking and allows you to set heart rate zones for targeted workouts.
For more comprehensive heart rate monitoring, the Charge 3 has the edge.
Smartwatch Features
Fitbit Charge 2
The Charge 2 offers basic smartphone notifications and call alerts.
Fitbit Charge 3
The Charge 3 comes with more advanced smartwatch features like app notifications, quick replies (Android only), and customizable watch faces.
If you want a fitness tracker that doubles as a smartwatch, the Charge 3 is the better choice.
Price
Fitbit Charge 2
The Charge 2 is typically more budget-friendly due to its older model status.
Fitbit Charge 3
The Charge 3 is a bit pricier but offers more advanced features.
Consider your budget and the features you need when making your decision.
Third-Party Apps
Fitbit Charge 2
The Charge 2 has limited third-party app support.
Fitbit Charge 3
The Charge 3 offers a wider range of third-party app compatibility, expanding its functionality.
If you value third-party app integration, the Charge 3 is the way to go.
Straps and Accessories
Fitbit Charge 2
The Charge 2 supports interchangeable bands for customization.
Fitbit Charge 3
The Charge 3 also offers interchangeable bands, allowing you to change the look easily.
Both models provide customization options, so it’s a tie in this regard.
Ecosystem and Community
Fitbit Charge 2
The Charge 2 is part of the larger Fitbit ecosystem, with a strong and supportive online community.
Fitbit Charge 3
The Charge 3 benefits from the same Fitbit ecosystem and community support.
In terms of community and ecosystem, both models are on equal footing.
Availability
Fitbit Charge 2
The Charge 2 might be challenging to find since it’s an older model.
Fitbit Charge 3
The Charge 3 is readily available through various retailers and online stores.
If you prefer a readily available product, the Charge 3 is the safer choice.
Size and Comfort
Fitbit Charge 2
The Charge 2 is slightly smaller and may feel more comfortable on smaller wrists.
Fitbit Charge 3
The Charge 3’s larger display might be preferred by those who appreciate a more significant screen.
The choice between these two models can depend on your wrist size and comfort preferences.
Durability
Fitbit Charge 2
The Charge 2 is durable but may show signs of wear and tear over time.
Fitbit Charge 3
The Charge 3 features Corning Gorilla Glass 3, offering improved durability and scratch resistance.
For a more durable device, the Fitbit Charge 3 has the upper hand.
Health and Wellness Features
Fitbit Charge 2
The Charge 2 primarily focuses on fitness tracking.
Fitbit Charge 3
The Charge 3 adds a focus on wellness with features like stress tracking and SpO2 (oxygen saturation) monitoring.
If wellness features are crucial to you, the Fitbit Charge 3 is the better choice.
In Conclusion
In the battle of Fitbit Charge 2 vs. Fitbit Charge 3, the choice ultimately comes down to your specific needs. The Charge 3 offers a more modern design, advanced features, better water resistance, and a longer battery life. It’s the ideal choice for those looking for a versatile fitness tracker with some smartwatch capabilities.
However, if you’re on a budget or prefer a smaller, more comfortable device, the Charge 2 is still a reliable fitness tracker. When deciding, consider what features matter most to you and your fitness journey. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just looking to improve your health, both of these devices can be valuable additions to your daily routine.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I swim with the Fitbit Charge 2?
No, the Fitbit Charge 2 is not suitable for swimming as it’s not waterproof. It can handle some splashes and sweat, but it’s not designed for water activities.
2. Does the Fitbit Charge 3 have a built-in GPS?
Yes, the Fitbit Charge 3 comes with built-in GPS, allowing you to accurately track your outdoor activities without needing your smartphone.