The Fitbit Charge series has been one of the most popular fitness trackers in the market, known for its balance of performance, affordability, and sleek design. Among the most popular models in the series are the Fitbit Charge 4 and Charge 5. Both offer a comprehensive set of features aimed at helping users track their fitness journey, but there are notable differences between the two. Whether you’re looking to upgrade from a previous model or choose between these two options, understanding their key differences can help you make a more informed decision.
One of the first differences you’ll notice between the Fitbit Charge 4 and Charge 5 is the design. The Charge 5 offers a more modern and premium design with a color touchscreen, which is a significant upgrade from the Charge 4’s monochrome display. The Charge 5’s display is also brighter and sharper, making it easier to read outdoors or in low-light conditions. In addition, the Charge 5 is slightly thinner and lighter than the Charge 4, making it feel more comfortable on the wrist throughout the day.
Another major upgrade with the Charge 5 is its built-in GPS, which is a notable improvement over the Charge 4. While the Charge 4 includes GPS, it relies on your phone to provide location data, whereas the Charge 5 has built-in GPS, meaning you can leave your phone at home during outdoor workouts and still track your pace, distance, and route. This feature is especially valuable for runners, cyclists, and hikers who prefer to go on longer sessions without carrying extra weight.
Battery life is an important consideration when choosing a fitness tracker, and both the Fitbit Charge 4 and Charge 5 offer impressive longevity. The Charge 4 provides up to seven days of battery life on a single charge, which is more than enough to last through a week of regular activity tracking. However, the Charge 5 offers slightly less battery life, with up to five days of usage. This shorter battery life is partly due to the Charge 5’s brighter, higher-resolution display and the added features like built-in GPS and EDA (electrodermal activity) sensor.
Speaking of sensors, the Fitbit Charge 5 comes with a variety of additional sensors that are not found on the Charge 4. The Charge 5 features the EDA sensor, which helps monitor stress levels by measuring changes in your skin’s conductivity. This is a unique feature that adds to the Charge 5’s overall health tracking capabilities. Additionally, the Charge 5 also includes an ECG (electrocardiogram) app, allowing users to take a heart health screening directly on their wrist. These health-focused features make the Charge 5 a more comprehensive option for users who are particularly interested in monitoring their wellness in greater detail.
Both the Fitbit Charge 4 and Charge 5 provide access to the Fitbit app, which offers a wide range of fitness and health tracking tools. The app allows users to track their daily activity, sleep patterns, heart rate, and even set fitness goals. While both models provide this level of data, the Charge 5 takes it a step further with features like a daily readiness score, which assesses how well your body is prepared for physical activity based on your sleep, activity, and heart rate variability.
For those who enjoy following guided workouts, the Fitbit Charge 5 supports more advanced workout modes and offers new features like on-screen workouts, making it easier to follow along with your exercises. The Charge 4, while still a capable fitness tracker, doesn’t offer as many workout options or the ability to view exercises directly on the device.
Another key difference is the price. As the newer model, the Fitbit Charge 5 tends to be priced higher than the Charge 4. However, the additional features, including the built-in GPS, EDA sensor, and ECG capabilities, may justify the higher cost for users looking for more advanced health and fitness tracking. On the other hand, the Fitbit Charge 4 still remains a solid option for those who want a reliable fitness tracker without the need for all the latest sensors.
Both devices are water-resistant and can track swim activities, but the Charge 5 has a slightly better design when it comes to swim tracking, thanks to its upgraded display and more accurate sensors. The Charge 5 can track your heart rate more accurately in the water, and the touchscreen is responsive even when wet.
In terms of compatibility, both the Fitbit Charge 4 and Charge 5 work seamlessly with both Android and iOS devices. You can sync your data with the Fitbit app to get insights into your activity, sleep, and health metrics. Additionally, both devices support smartphone notifications, allowing you to receive calls, messages, and app alerts right on your wrist. However, the Charge 5 takes things a step further with a more vibrant display, making it easier to view notifications at a glance.
Ultimately, the decision between the Fitbit Charge 4 and Charge 5 comes down to what features you prioritize. If you’re looking for a more affordable option that offers the essentials, the Charge 4 remains a great choice. However, if you’re looking for more advanced health tracking features, better display quality, and the added convenience of built-in GPS, the Charge 5 is likely the better fit.
