Design and Display
One of the first things that caught my attention about the Fitbit Charge 6 is its design. It features a sleek and minimalistic look, which is perfect for those who prefer a more understated style. The vertical 1.04-inch color OLED display is the centerpiece of the device and provides a clear and vibrant visual experience.
Fitness and Health Tracking
When it comes to fitness tracking, the Fitbit Charge 6 excels. It offers a wide range of features to help you monitor your physical activity and achieve your fitness goals. From step counting and distance tracking to heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking, this device has all the basics covered. It even includes a built-in GPS, which is a standout feature in an activity tracker.
Smart Features
While the Fitbit Charge 6 may not offer the full functionality of a smartwatch, it still provides some useful smart features. You can receive notifications for calls, texts, and app alerts right on your wrist, allowing you to stay connected without constantly checking your phone. It also offers contactless payments, so you can conveniently make purchases on the go.
Battery Life
One area where the Fitbit Charge 6 truly shines is its battery life. Fitbit claims that the device can last up to 7 days on a single charge, which is impressive compared to most smartwatches on the market. This means you can wear it comfortably without worrying about running out of battery throughout the week.
Fitbit App and Ecosystem
Fitbit has a well-established ecosystem that includes a user-friendly app and a wide range of compatible accessories. The Fitbit app provides detailed insights into your fitness data, allowing you to track your progress over time. It also offers personalized guidance and coaching, making it easier to stay motivated and reach your fitness goals.
Fitbit Charge 6 Review: Do I even need a smartwatch any more?
Design and Features
The Fitbit Charge 6 boasts some notable improvements over its predecessor, the Fitbit Charge 5. One significant design change is the inclusion of a haptic touch button on the side of the device. This feature allows users to quickly return to the home screen, replacing the touch sensor found on the Charge 5. Personally, I have always found touch sensors to be fiddly and prone to malfunction, so having a proper button feels like a substantial upgrade.
Color Variants
In Australia, Google, the owners of Fitbit, sells the Fitbit Charge 6 in three different color variants. These include porcelain with a silver aluminum body, coral with a champagne gold body, and obsidian with a black aluminum body. For this review, Google sent me the obsidian variant, which is a classic black color. While black may seem like an everyday choice, it is a versatile color that complements almost any outfit. Personally, if I were to purchase a Fitbit Charge 6, black would be my preferred color.
Band vs. Watch Style
While the Fitbit Charge 6 falls into the band-style category, I personally have a slight preference for watch-style devices. There is something about the aesthetic of a watch that appeals to me more than a band. However, I must admit that the Fitbit Charge 6’s sleek design and comfortable fit make it a compelling option, despite my personal preference for watch-style devices.
Display and Functionality
The Charge 6 features a vibrant and easy-to-read OLED display that provides clear visibility even in bright sunlight. The touch-responsive screen allows for effortless navigation through various menus and features, providing a user-friendly experience. The inclusion of a haptic touch button further enhances the device’s functionality, enabling users to navigate back to the home screen with ease.
Fitness Tracking and Health Monitoring
Fitbit has always been known for its comprehensive fitness and health tracking features. The Charge 6 is no exception. It offers a wide range of tracking capabilities, including heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, activity tracking, and even stress management. The device seamlessly integrates with the Fitbit app, allowing users to analyze their data and track their progress over time.
Battery Life
One of the standout features of the Fitbit Charge 6 is its impressive battery life. With up to seven days of usage on a single charge, the Charge 6 outperforms many other smartwatches on the market. This extended battery life ensures that users can rely on their device for an extended period, without the need for frequent recharging.
Design and Display
The design of the Fitbit Charge 6 may not appeal to everyone, but it is a subjective matter. If you do not care about the look of a watch, then this device will be just fine for you. However, Fitbit has made some smart decisions in terms of the text layout on the vertical screen of this wearable. The text is already pretty good, but if you find it too small, you can easily magnify the screen by triple tapping. Simply go to settings and enable this feature to enjoy a larger display.
Performance and Compatibility
As expected from a Fitbit device, the Fitbit Charge 6 runs via the free Fitbit app, which is available for both Android and iOS. This sets it apart from many other wearables on the market that are exclusive to either Android or iPhone. Whether you have an Android or iPhone, you can use the Fitbit Charge 6 without any compatibility issues. However, there are a few additional features that are exclusive to Android users.
Fitness and Google Integration
Apart from its regular fitness tracking capabilities such as heart rate monitoring, stress tracking, and ECG, the Fitbit Charge 6 offers a range of Google-specific activities and features. This integration with Google gives it an added advantage over other fitness trackers. With Google integration, you can expect a seamless experience and access to a wide range of Google services and features.
Additional Features
In addition to its fitness and health tracking capabilities, the Fitbit Charge 6 offers a variety of additional features. These include sleep tracking, GPS connectivity, and smart notification alerts. With sleep tracking, you can gain insights into your sleep patterns and understand the quality of your sleep. GPS connectivity allows you to track your outdoor activities accurately, while smart notifications keep you informed about calls, messages, and other notifications without having to check your phone constantly.
Battery Life and Water Resistance
The Fitbit Charge 6 boasts an impressive battery life, which can last up to several days on a single charge. This means that you can wear it for an extended period without having to worry about recharging it frequently. Additionally, this wearable is water-resistant, making it suitable for use during workouts or even swimming.
The Convenience of Turn Notifications
If you’re someone who frequently relies on Google Maps for navigation, then the Fitbit Charge 6 may have an added benefit for you. With this smartwatch strapped to your wrist, you’ll receive turn notifications as you move around. While it doesn’t allow for map searches directly from the Charge 6 itself, the convenience of receiving these notifications without having to pull out your phone can make walking around or exploring tourist areas feel a bit safer. It provides that extra impetus you may need to confidently navigate your surroundings.
Mixed Feelings about Music Control
When it comes to music control, the Fitbit Charge 6 has its limitations. Yes, it can act as a remote control for YouTube Music, which sounds great in theory. However, this feature is limited to YouTube Music only. Unlike many other wearables that offer simple play and pause functionality across multiple music apps, the Charge 6 requires you to be a YouTube Music subscriber for this feature to make any sense. In Australia, this means shelling out $12.99 a month for YouTube Music or $16.99 a month for YouTube Premium. It would have been much more convenient if Google had opened up this functionality to include all music apps, allowing users to control their music regardless of the platform.
Unexplored Possibilities
It’s not uncommon for Fitbit to prioritize certain features and overlook others that may seem obvious or useful. For example, it would have been fantastic if the Charge 6 allowed users to play and pause their music regardless of the app being used, especially during workouts. However, this is not the route Fitbit decided to take with this device.
Continued Desire for Improvement
As technology continues to advance and wearables become more integrated into our everyday lives, it’s disheartening to see such limitations being imposed on devices like the Fitbit Charge 6. While it offers convenience in some areas, its lack of versatility when it comes to music control is a letdown. It’s a reminder that even though smartwatches have become increasingly advanced, there is still room for improvement and innovation in the industry.
The Need for Smartwatches
So, do we even need a smartwatch anymore with the Fitbit Charge 6? While it may offer some benefits, its limitations and the availability of more versatile smartwatch options on the market make it a questionable choice for those seeking a truly integrated and comprehensive wearable experience. It’s worth considering other smartwatches that offer a wider range of functionalities and compatibility with various apps and services. The Fitbit Charge 6 may have its place for specific needs, but for those looking for a more all-encompassing device, it may fall short.
Fitbit Charge 6 Review: Do I even need a smartwatch anymore?
The Fitbit Charge 6 is the latest offering from Fitbit, and it promises an array of features that rival those of a smartwatch. But in a world where smartwatches are becoming increasingly popular, do we really need another device on our wrists?
Contactless Payments with NFC
One standout feature of the Fitbit Charge 6 is its NFC capability for contactless payments. Although this is not new for Fitbit, what sets it apart is the shift from Fitbit Pay to Google Wallet. But you might wonder, since Fitbit is owned by Google, is there really much of a difference?
The Benefit of Google Wallet
The answer is yes, there is a significant difference. While both Fitbit Pay and Google Wallet allow you to make payments by simply tapping the device against a sensor, Google Wallet has a distinct advantage for Australian buyers. This is because a greater number of banks, credit unions, and financial institutions support Google Wallet compared to Fitbit Pay.
Consider Your Financial Institution
If contactless payments are important to you, it’s crucial to check with your financial institution regarding their supported payment platforms. While it might be rare for them not to support Google Wallet, there is a possibility that they may only support Fitbit Pay. In such cases, an older Fitbit model with NFC might be a better choice for you.
The Fitbit Charge 6 Experience
Aside from its payment capabilities, the Fitbit Charge 6 also impresses with its simplicity and focus on essential features. A simple sideswiping gesture allows you to access notifications, exercise tracking, alarm timers, ADA scanning, ECG readings, Google Maps, and even YouTube Music integration.
A Fitness Tracker that Delivers
Given that the Fitbit brand is synonymous with fitness tracking, it should come as no surprise that the exercise features on the Charge 6 are well-handled. This device lives up to expectations and offers a comprehensive range of exercise tracking functionalities.
The Fitbit Charge 6 is a compelling option for those who are considering whether they still need a smartwatch. With its NFC capabilities and extensive support from financial institutions through Google Wallet, it provides a convenient and efficient way to make contactless payments. Additionally, the device excels in its core function as a fitness tracker, delivering a range of exercise tracking features that you would expect from a Fitbit. Whether or not you need a smartwatch anymore ultimately depends on your personal preferences and individual requirements.
Initial Setup and Exercise Options
The Fitbit Charge 6 certainly has its perks, but when it comes to the initial setup and finding less common exercises, it may leave users scrolling for quite some time. While it does remember your exercise history, making it easier to track your workouts, the process can still be time-consuming. As someone who primarily sticks to running and walking, I don’t find this to be a major issue personally. However, for those who engage in a wide range of exercises, this might be a minor inconvenience.
Automatic Workout Detection
One of the features that the Fitbit Charge 6 boasts is its ability to automatically detect workouts. While this is not a unique feature and has been seen in other smartwatches, it is well-handled by the device. However, there have been a few instances where it misfired. During a park run, for example, it mistook my warm-up walk as part of my actual run and prematurely declared that I had finished my 5K. In cases like this, it’s always an option to disable the automatic detection feature, especially for activities that require more precise tracking.
Encouragement to Stay Active
The Fitbit Charge 6 has a nifty feature that gently nudges users to get up and move. This reminder to stand up and take a break is not unique to this device, as many others provide similar notifications. However, what sets the Fitbit Charge 6 apart is its ability to quantify your activity with a specific number of steps taken, making it more tangible and motivating to get moving.
Overall, the Fitbit Charge 6 offers an array of features that cater to those who prioritize fitness tracking. While its initial setup may require some scrolling and the automatic workout detection isn’t always flawless, the device’s ability to encourage movement and provide concrete data on steps taken makes it a reliable option for those in need of a fitness companion.
Design and Comfort
The Fitbit Charge 6 boasts a sleek and lightweight design that sets it apart from other smartwatches in the market. This thinner and lighter tracker offers a comfortable fit, especially during sleep. Unlike bulky watch-style variants that tend to snag on bed sheets or even unsuspectingly hit your face, the Fitbit Charge 6 remains unobtrusive throughout the night. This level of comfort is definitely a big plus for those who value uninterrupted sleep.
Sleep Tracking
One of the standout features of the Fitbit Charge 6 is its sleep tracking capability. While it may not be as accurate as some specialized sleep trackers, it does a reasonably good job of monitoring your sleep patterns. However, it does have its limitations. If you’re lying down in bed but not moving much, such as when you’re just watching something or relaxing, the device may find it challenging to detect if you’re fully asleep or just lightly sleeping. As a result, there may be instances when the sleep tracking feature overestimates the amount of time you’ve spent asleep. Despite these minor flaws, the sleep tracking function is still a valuable addition to your overall health story.
Motivation and Movement
The Fitbit Charge 6 excels in motivating users to engage in physical activity. With its well-designed reminders and gentle push notifications, this smartwatch encourages you to get up and stretch at regular intervals. This subtle form of pester power ensures that you maintain a more active lifestyle. For those who often find themselves stuck in long hours of work or sedentary activities, this feature serves as a pleasant reminder to prioritize movement and take care of your health.
Data Management
Unfortunately, one big drawback of the Fitbit Charge 6 lies in how it handles data. Similar to the Pixel Watch 2, Fitbit’s data management system leaves much to be desired. Users have often expressed frustration with the way their data is handled and the lack of user control over their own information. This is an area where Fitbit could improve significantly, as data privacy and management are becoming increasingly important concerns for consumers.
The Smartwatch Dilemma
Now, let’s delve into the central question: “Do I even need a smartwatch anymore?” The Fitbit Charge 6 may blur the lines between smartwatches and fitness trackers, but it’s important to note that it still lacks some of the features and functionalities of a full-fledged smartwatch. If you’re looking for a device that allows you to stay connected, receive notifications, and interact with apps seamlessly, you might find the Fitbit Charge 6 falling short of your expectations.
However, if your primary focus is fitness and health tracking, then the Fitbit Charge 6 is an excellent choice. Its accurate heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and activity reminders make it an ideal companion for those who prioritize their well-being above all else. Whether you need a smartwatch or not ultimately depends on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and desired functionalities.
The Fitbit Charge 6 brings a lot to the table in terms of fitness tracking and sleep monitoring. Its comfortable design and motivational features enhance the overall user experience. Nonetheless, there are certain areas where Fitbit could work on improving, particularly in terms of data management. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not you need a smartwatch is
Fitbit Charge 6: Basic Fit Metrics for Free
I have always been a fan of Fitbit trackers, especially the Fitbit Charge 6. One of the things that I appreciate about this device is that it provides basic fit metrics for free, just like the Pixel Watch 2. However, if you want to access advanced features such as a daily redness score or the advanced sleep metric, you would have to pay $14.99 a month after the six-month trial. Personally, I find this a bit expensive. I understand that there are additional workouts and features, but I can’t comprehend why processing the data I’m already giving to Fitbit should cost that much each month. It feels like they are charging just because they can. I would love to hear your thoughts on this. Is Fitbit Premium worth it in all cases? Is there something I am overlooking that makes it a must-have feature? Let me know in the comments below.
Notifications: A Key Aspect of Wearables
Moving on to notifications, this is a crucial aspect of wearables for me. I have always admired the original Pebble smartwatch for its exceptional notification capabilities. Unfortunately, with the Fitbit Charge 6, you have to put in some effort to set up notifications. The process differs depending on whether you are using iOS or Android, and you also need to configure them on an app-by-app basis.
Long Battery Life
One area where the Fitbit Charge 6 shines is its battery life. Unlike many smartwatches that require daily charging, the Charge 6 can last up to a week on a single charge. This is incredibly convenient, as it eliminates the need to worry about constant charging and allows you to focus more on your fitness goals.
Aesthetic Appeal and Comfort
Fitbit has always been known for its sleek and comfortable designs, and the Charge 6 is no exception. The device looks great on the wrist, with its slim profile and customizable watch faces. Moreover, the strap is comfortable to wear throughout the day and doesn’t cause any discomfort or irritation, even during intense workout sessions.
Dedicated Fitness Features
While the Charge 6 may not have all the bells and whistles of a smartwatch, it certainly excels in its primary function as a fitness tracker. It offers accurate heart rate monitoring, step counting, and sleep tracking. Additionally, it provides personalized insights and recommendations to help you achieve your fitness goals. If you are primarily interested in monitoring your fitness progress rather than accessing advanced smartwatch features, the Fitbit Charge 6 is an excellent choice.
Notification Setup
The Fitbit Charge 6 confused me initially when it came to notifications. I expected to receive a plethora of alerts, but I soon realized that I hadn’t configured the necessary apps. It took some time and effort to locate and set them up, which I found to be a slightly fiddly process. Personally, I would have preferred a simpler and more straightforward toggle system. However, I can understand that some individuals appreciate the option to customize their notifications. They might want to receive alerts from certain apps while filtering out others.
Limitations as a Fitness Tracker
One important thing to bear in mind is that the Fitbit Charge 6, at its core, is still primarily a fitness tracker. Consequently, while it can provide notifications, it does have its limitations compared to a full-fledged smartwatch. When it comes to many of these notifications, all it can do is inform you that you have one, prompting you to open the corresponding app on your phone to take necessary action. Android users can send quick responses to text messages, but iOS users do not have this capability. Therefore, if you require extensive app functionality, the Fitbit Charge 6 might not suffice for your needs.
The Value of Notifications
However, for many people, the notifications alone are sufficient. Merely being alerted that they have received an email, for example, or that a notification is related to mundane social media activity can be valuable information. It allows users to prioritize which alerts they need to address immediately and which ones they can ignore. In this regard, the Fitbit Charge 6 excels in providing a consolidated overview of notifications, helping users stay informed and in control of their digital lives.
Battery Life
When it comes to battery life, the Fitbit Charge 6 certainly holds its own. With up to 7 days of battery life, this fitness tracker outperforms many smartwatches on the market. Now, I must admit that the term “up to” can be a bit ambiguous. It could mean anywhere from a minute to seven days. However, in my experience, I found that the Charge 6 lasted for about 6 days on average, which is still quite impressive.
Features
One of the standout features of the Fitbit Charge 6 is its NFC capability. This means that you can make contactless payments directly from your wrist, eliminating the need to carry around a wallet or phone. Not all fitness trackers offer this feature, so it’s definitely a great addition to have. On top of that, the Charge 6 is equipped with a range of other impressive functionalities, making it a versatile device for fitness enthusiasts.
Charging
While the Fitbit Charge 6 offers solid battery life, the charging process is a bit of a mixed bag. It uses a Pogo Pin cable, which attaches securely to the device. However, like many proprietary chargers, losing the cable can be quite inconvenient. It would have been nice to see the inclusion of Qi wireless charging, but considering the design of the Charge 6, it’s understandable why Fitbit opted for the Pogo Pin cable. Nonetheless, it’s a minor inconvenience compared to the overall value of the device.
Pricing
When it comes to purchasing the Fitbit Charge 6, price is an important factor to consider. The Charge 6 offers a great balance between affordability and functionality. With its feature-packed design and impressive battery life, it proves to be a solid investment for individuals looking to track their fitness goals without breaking the bank.
Design and Features
The Fitbit Charge 6 may not have the sleek and flashy design of a smartwatch, but it still manages to stand out with its simplicity. Its design is reminiscent of the old school Pebble, which was known for its reliable functionality. Like the Pebble, the Fitbit Charge 6 focuses on doing a few things exceptionally well rather than overwhelming users with a multitude of features.
Functionality and Performance
If you’re someone who doesn’t require all the fancy features of a smartwatch, then the Fitbit Charge 6 might be the ideal fitness tracker for you. It excels in providing basic notifications, accurate fitness tracking, contactless payment options, and impressive battery life. With a price point of 259.95 AUD in Australia, it offers a great value for money.
Notifications and Connectivity
The Fitbit Charge 6 keeps you updated with important notifications without overwhelming you. It syncs with your smartphone and displays calls, messages, and calendar alerts conveniently on its small yet clear display. While it may not offer the same level of interaction as a smartwatch, it gets the job done efficiently.
Fitness Tracking
One of the standout features of the Fitbit Charge 6 is its ability to accurately track your fitness activities. Whether you’re jogging, cycling, or doing yoga, this fitness tracker records and analyzes your every move with impressive precision. It’s an excellent companion for anyone looking to achieve their fitness goals or maintain an active lifestyle.
Contactless Payment
Gone are the days of carrying a bulky wallet when you have the Fitbit Charge 6 strapped to your wrist. With support for contactless payment via Google Wallet, this fitness tracker allows you to effortlessly make purchases on the go. Simply tap your wrist and complete transactions with ease, making it a convenient feature for those who prefer a cashless lifestyle.
Battery Life
One area where the Fitbit Charge 6 truly shines is its battery life. Unlike many smartwatches that require daily recharging, this fitness tracker can easily last several days on a single charge. Its efficiency in power consumption ensures that you can rely on it throughout your active lifestyle without worrying about running out of battery.
So, do you even need a smartwatch anymore? Well, it depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you’re looking for a device primarily focused on fitness and health tracking, with some smart features on the side, the Fitbit Charge 6 could be a great choice. It offers reliable tracking capabilities, a sleek design, impressive battery life, and access to the Fitbit ecosystem. However, if you’re someone who wants more advanced smartwatch features like app support and a larger display, you might still be better off with a traditional smartwatch.
The Fitbit Charge 6 provides a compelling option for those seeking a versatile wearable that prioritizes fitness and health tracking. While it may not replace the functionality of a smartwatch entirely, it offers a well-rounded set of features and a user-friendly experience. Whether you choose to go with a smartwatch or an activity tracker like the Fitbit Charge 6, the most important thing is finding a device that suits your individual needs and helps you lead a healthier and more active lifestyle.
The Fitbit Charge 6 is a versatile and reliable fitness tracker that offers an impressive array of features. While it may not have all the functionalities of a traditional smartwatch, it fulfills its purpose as a fitness and health monitoring device exceptionally well. With its sleek design, user-friendly interface, and long-lasting battery life, the Charge 6 proves to be a worthy contender in the wearable tech market. Whether or not you need a smartwatch anymore may depend on your specific needs and preferences, but the Fitbit Charge 6 certainly makes a compelling case for itself.
The Fitbit Charge 6 is a versatile and feature-rich fitness tracker that offers a range of capabilities for health-conscious individuals. Whether you are a casual exerciser or a fitness enthusiast, this device can help you track your progress and achieve your fitness goals. With its integration with Google and compatibility with both Android and iOS, the Fitbit Charge 6 proves to be a reliable and convenient wearable for anyone in need of a smartwatch alternative.
The Fitbit Charge 6 offers basic fit metrics for free, but advanced features come at an additional cost. The notification setup process may require some effort, but the device’s long battery life, aesthetic appeal, comfort, and dedicated fitness features make it a worthy investment for fitness enthusiasts. However, whether Fitbit Premium is worth it or not ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs.
The Fitbit Charge 6 is a reliable fitness tracker that challenges the need for a smartwatch. With its impressive battery life, NFC capability, and reasonable price, it offers a compelling option for those seeking a versatile and cost-effective gadget. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as the proprietary charging cable, the overall performance and value of the Charge 6 make it a worthy companion for your fitness journey.
The Fitbit Charge 6 is an excellent choice for individuals who do not require the full range of features offered by a smartwatch. Its focus on essential functionalities, coupled with its reasonable price point, makes it a compelling option in the market. While it may not be as flashy or interactive as a smartwatch, it more than makes up for it with its reliable performance and long-lasting battery life. So, if you’re in need of a fitness tracker that covers the basics exceptionally well, the Fitbit Charge 6 is definitely worth considering.
