Fitbit Surge vs Polar A370: Which Fitness Tracker Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right fitness tracker can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. Two popular contenders in the market are the Fitbit Surge and the Polar A370. Both devices offer a comprehensive suite of features designed to help you track your fitness progress and stay motivated. But which one comes out on top?
This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of the Fitbit Surge and the Polar A370, comparing their key features, pros and cons, and ultimately helping you decide which one best suits your individual needs.

Design and Comfort

The Fitbit Surge and the Polar A370 boast distinct design aesthetics. The Surge, with its large, rectangular display, is reminiscent of a smartwatch, while the A370 adopts a more traditional, circular design.
The Surge’s larger size might feel bulky for some users, particularly those with smaller wrists. Its silicone band, while comfortable, can trap sweat, leading to irritation for those with sensitive skin. The A370, on the other hand, is considerably sleeker and more lightweight, making it a more comfortable choice for everyday wear. Its soft silicone band offers a secure fit and is less prone to sweat buildup.

Display and Navigation

The Fitbit Surge features a vibrant, color touchscreen display, providing a clear and detailed view of your fitness data. Its intuitive interface makes navigating through menus and accessing various features a breeze. The Polar A370, however, opts for a smaller, monochrome touchscreen display. While it’s still readable in most lighting conditions, it lacks the visual appeal and clarity of the Surge’s display.
Navigation on the A370 is also slightly less intuitive, requiring a bit more effort to access specific features. However, the A370’s smaller size and lighter weight make it more comfortable for long-term wear, even during sleep.

Activity Tracking

Both the Fitbit Surge and the Polar A370 excel in activity tracking, providing detailed insights into your daily steps, distance, calories burned, and active minutes.
The Surge’s built-in GPS enables precise tracking of your outdoor runs and walks, while the A370 relies on connected GPS, requiring a smartphone for location data.
Both devices offer automatic sleep tracking, providing valuable information about your sleep duration, stages, and heart rate variability. However, the A370’s heart rate tracking is more accurate and consistent, especially during sleep.

Heart Rate Monitoring

Heart rate monitoring is a crucial aspect of fitness tracking, and both devices offer this feature. The Surge uses an optical heart rate sensor, while the A370 boasts a more advanced sensor technology.
The Polar A370’s heart rate sensor is renowned for its accuracy and consistency, even during intense workouts. It also provides more detailed insights into your heart rate variability, which can be indicative of your overall health and fitness level. The Surge’s sensor, while reliable, can sometimes struggle during high-intensity activities.

Additional Features

Both devices offer a range of additional features to enhance your fitness journey. The Fitbit Surge includes music controls, allowing you to control your music playback directly from your wrist. It also features smartphone notifications, allowing you to stay connected without having to pull out your phone.
The Polar A370, on the other hand, focuses on providing detailed fitness insights. Its advanced heart rate monitoring capabilities allow you to track your training load and recovery time, helping you optimize your workouts and avoid overtraining. It also offers personalized training guidance, providing recommendations based on your individual fitness goals.

Pros and Cons

Fitbit Surge:
Pros:

• Large, vibrant color touchscreen display
• Built-in GPS for accurate outdoor tracking
• Music controls and smartphone notifications
• Long battery life

Cons:

• Bulky design
• Less accurate heart rate tracking, especially during high-intensity workouts
• No personalized training guidance

Polar A370:
Pros:

• Sleek and lightweight design
• Advanced heart rate monitoring technology
• Personalized training guidance
• Comfortable for everyday wear

Cons:

• Smaller, monochrome touchscreen display
• Requires connected GPS for outdoor tracking
• No music controls or smartphone notifications
• Shorter battery life

Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between the Fitbit Surge and the Polar A370 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Fitbit Surge if:

• You prioritize a large, colorful display and intuitive navigation.
• You need built-in GPS for accurate outdoor tracking.
• You value music controls and smartphone notifications.
• You are looking for a tracker with a long battery life.

Choose the Polar A370 if:

• You prefer a sleek and lightweight design.
• You value accurate heart rate monitoring and personalized training guidance.
• You prioritize comfort for everyday wear.
• You are willing to compromise on display size and features.

Beyond the Comparison: An Overview of Fitness Tracking

It’s important to note that both the Fitbit Surge and the Polar A370 are robust fitness trackers that can help you reach your fitness goals. However, the world of fitness tracking extends beyond these two devices.
With the rise of smartwatches, many brands now offer fitness trackers that integrate seamlessly with your smartphone and lifestyle. These devices often provide a wider range of features, including advanced health monitoring, contactless payments, and even voice assistants.
Ultimately, the best fitness tracker for you is the one that aligns with your individual needs, preferences, and budget. Take the time to research different options, compare features, and read reviews before making your decision.

The Final Verdict: A Journey of Fitness, Not a Destination

Choosing the right fitness tracker is a crucial step in your fitness journey.
The Fitbit Surge and the Polar A370 each offer a unique set of advantages, catering to different user preferences.
The Surge’s large display, built-in GPS, and music controls make it a great choice for those who prioritize comprehensive tracking and convenience. The A370’s sleek design, advanced heart rate monitoring, and personalized training guidance make it ideal for fitness enthusiasts seeking detailed insights and tailored workout recommendations.
Remember, the most important factor is choosing a device that motivates you to stay active and achieve your fitness goals.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Are the Fitbit Surge and the Polar A370 waterproof?
A: Both devices are water-resistant, but not waterproof. The Fitbit Surge is rated as water-resistant up to 50 meters, while the Polar A370 is rated as water-resistant up to 30 meters. This means you can wear them while swimming or showering, but they should not be submerged for extended periods.
Q: Can I use the Fitbit Surge and the Polar A370 for sleep tracking?
A: Yes, both devices offer automatic sleep tracking. They can track your sleep duration, stages (light, deep, REM), and heart rate variability.
Q: Do the Fitbit Surge and the Polar A370 work with both Android and iOS devices?
A: Yes, both devices are compatible with both Android and iOS devices.
Q: Which device has a longer battery life?
A: The Fitbit Surge has a longer battery life, lasting up to 7 days on a single charge. The Polar A370’s battery life is about 4 days.
Q: Which device is better for tracking workouts?
A: Both devices offer comprehensive workout tracking, but the Polar A370’s advanced heart rate monitoring and personalized training guidance make it a better choice for serious athletes.