As one of the world’s biggest makers of fitness trackers, Fitbit is always under pressure to deliver new and innovative options for consumers. The Fitbit Charge 3 has been a highly successful device for the company. And, if you own one, you will appreciate the number of features you can use to ensure that your health and wellbeing take center stage.
However, you may be wondering if it is time to upgrade. Rather than being uncertain, we have the answers to your questions so that you can make your decision with confidence!
When were the devices released?
The Fitbit Charge 3 was first released back in 2018. While it is now over three years old, it is still a popular choice. It was introduced as an upgrade to the Fitbit 2 to increase the size of the display, update the technology, and offer new fitness features.
Then in 2020, the Fitbit Charge 4 was released and looked almost identical to the Charge 3. However, it came with built-in GPS. Meaning users could leave their phones at home when taking part in activities and still get accurate data on their performance.
How big is the Fitbit Charge 3 and Charge 4?
The dimensions of the Fitbit Charge 4 are 3.58cm x 2.27cm x1.25 cm. This makes it both lightweight to wear and small on the wrist. However, it’s not so small that it cannot be read.
Interestingly, the Fitbit Charge 3 is almost identical in size with dimensions of 3.5cm x 2.27cm x 1.18cm. Both devices have a monochrome display, which is disappointing when you consider the advances in color displays. However, they are both easy to read so you can always be on track with your performance.
Which device is most accurate?
The great thing about the Fitbit 4 is that it comes with in-built GPS. Rather than having to depend on your phone’s GPS like the Charge 3. This means you can be confident that the provided data is more accurate than ever before. Allowing you to accurately analyze your performance as you exercise.
While the Fitbit Charge 3 depends on phone GPS to provide tracking, it has also come up strong in testing for accuracy. It’s no surprise when you consider that Fitbit was at the inception of fitness tracking devices and need to stay on top of the competition to hold their place as a tech-informer.
Does the Charge 3 or Charge 4 offer sleep tracking?
Sleep tracking is a standard feature in both the Charge 3 and the Charge 4, taking readings from your wrist to determine the sleep stage you are in and recording the number of times you wake during the night.
Interestingly, the sleep tracking service provided with Fitbit devices also provides you with a sleep score percentage and tag so that you can see the quality of your sleep along with the total amount of time you have slept during the night. Sleep tracking is a handy feature in that it not only gives you insight into how well and how much sleep you are getting but can help you to plan your exercise schedule based on how much sleep you have achieved so that you don’t overdo it on days when you have had a night of poor sleep.
How easy are they to charge?
Both the Fitbit Charge 3 and the Charge 4 use a similar clip-on charger that attaches to the back of the watch face and powers up the device. It is simple to attach and is secure so you do not need to worry about it coming detached during the charging time.
You will know that the devices are charging as a battery symbol will show on the face when the charger is initially connected. The battery life on the Fitbit Charge is up to seven days, whereas the battery on the Fitbit Charge 4 is just four days. The reason for the difference is the introduction of GPS on the Charge 4. However, both devices charge quickly, meaning you do not need to be without them on your wrist for long!
Can I personalize the Fitbit Charge 3 or Charge 4?
When you buy a Fitbit Charge 3 or Fitbit Charge 4, you will get the standard strap options to attach to your device, but if these do not suit your style or you prefer to change your look, you can buy additional straps to use.
There are plenty of third-party straps to choose from, too, meaning that you can personalize your fitness tracking device without sticking to Fitbit-made accessories only.
What are the main differences?
In reality, there are not many differences between the Charge 3 and the Charge 4. However, the most noticeable differences include:
- GPS being added to the Charge 4
- Contactless payment is only available on the Charge 4 or Special Edition Charge 3
- Spotify controls are only available on the Charge 4
- Charge 3 has a longer battery life
Which device is the best?
Ultimately, if you cannot choose between the Charge 3 and the Charge 4, then we would recommend that you select the Charge 4 because it offers features like GPS that could come in handy when you are working out and contactless payments that make life easier when you nip to the shops. However, if you are budget-focused, you can be sure that the Charge 3 still has a lot to offer. You just need to be willing to take your phone with you too so that you can enjoy compatible GPS.
Not sure Fitbit is for you? Take a look at our pick of the best fitness bands available now.
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Last Updated on September 8, 2021
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