Fitbit Charge vs Fitbit Charge 2: The Fitness Tracker Battle You’ve Been Waiting For

Are you looking for a reliable and feature-packed fitness tracker to help you reach your health and wellness goals? The Fitbit Charge and Fitbit Charge 2 are popular choices, but which one is right for you? This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences between these two models, helping you make an informed decision.

Design and Display

The Fitbit Charge and Charge 2 share a similar design philosophy, featuring a sleek and minimalist aesthetic. However, there are some notable distinctions.
The original Fitbit Charge boasts a rectangular OLED display that’s smaller and less vibrant compared to the Charge 2. It’s also not as responsive to touch. The Charge 2, on the other hand, flaunts a larger, more colorful touchscreen display. This improvement makes it easier to navigate menus, view stats, and interact with the device.
Another key difference lies in the materials used. The Charge features a simple, rubbery band, while the Charge 2 offers a more premium feel with a stainless steel casing and interchangeable bands. This gives the Charge 2 a more sophisticated look and feel.

Activity Tracking and Features

Both the Fitbit Charge and Charge 2 excel in activity tracking, but there are some key differences to consider.
Fitbit Charge:

• Tracks steps, distance, calories burned, and active minutes.
• Offers sleep tracking, including sleep stages and duration.
• Features a basic heart rate monitor.
• Allows you to set silent alarms.
• Supports smartphone notifications.

Fitbit Charge 2:

• Tracks all the features of the Charge, including steps, distance, calories burned, active minutes, sleep, and heart rate.
• Introduces advanced sleep tracking, providing insights into your sleep quality.
• Includes a more accurate and responsive heart rate monitor.
• Features guided breathing sessions to help manage stress and promote relaxation.
• Offers on-wrist call and text notifications.

Battery Life

Both the Fitbit Charge and Charge 2 boast impressive battery life, lasting for several days on a single charge. However, the Charge 2 edges out the Charge with a slightly longer battery life, typically lasting up to 5 days compared to the Charge’s 4-5 days.

Water Resistance

Both the Fitbit Charge and Charge 2 are water-resistant, making them suitable for everyday use and even swimming. The Charge is splash-proof, while the Charge 2 is water-resistant up to 50 meters, allowing you to wear it while swimming or showering.

Price and Availability

The Fitbit Charge is generally more affordable than the Charge 2, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals. However, the Charge 2 offers a more comprehensive feature set and a more premium design, justifying its higher price point.

Which One Should You Choose?

So, which fitness tracker should you choose? Here’s a breakdown to help you make the right decision:
Choose the Fitbit Charge if:

• You’re looking for a basic and affordable fitness tracker.
• You don’t need the advanced features of the Charge 2.
• You’re on a tight budget.

Choose the Fitbit Charge 2 if:

• You want a more feature-rich and stylish fitness tracker.
• You appreciate the enhanced sleep tracking and heart rate monitoring.
• You’re willing to invest in a more premium device.

Final Verdict: A Fitness Tracker for Every Need

Both the Fitbit Charge and Charge 2 are excellent fitness trackers that offer a range of features to help you achieve your health and wellness goals. The Charge is a great option for those seeking a simple and affordable tracker, while the Charge 2 is a more advanced and stylish choice for those who demand more from their fitness tracker. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

1. What is the difference between the Fitbit Charge and Charge 2?
The main differences between the Fitbit Charge and Charge 2 lie in their display, features, and design. The Charge 2 features a larger, more colorful touchscreen display, advanced sleep tracking, a more accurate heart rate monitor, guided breathing sessions, and a more premium design with interchangeable bands.
2. Which Fitbit Charge is better for sleep tracking?
The Fitbit Charge 2 offers more advanced sleep tracking features than the original Charge. It provides insights into your sleep stages, including light sleep, deep sleep, and REM sleep, giving you a more comprehensive understanding of your sleep quality.
3. Is the Fitbit Charge 2 waterproof?
The Fitbit Charge 2 is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming and showering. However, it’s not recommended to wear it while diving or engaging in high-impact water sports.
4. How long does the Fitbit Charge 2 battery last?
The Fitbit Charge 2 battery typically lasts up to 5 days on a single charge. This is slightly longer than the original Charge, which lasts for 4-5 days.
5. Can I use the Fitbit Charge 2 for running?
Yes, the Fitbit Charge 2 is an excellent choice for running. It accurately tracks your distance, pace, and heart rate, providing valuable insights into your performance. You can also use it to set goals and track your progress over time.