Best Fitbits for runners
Whether you’re training for an Iron Man or going on your first jog, you’re taking steps to prioritize your health and well-being. That’s worth celebrating.
Having a Fitbit on your wrist can help you keep track of your progress without too much extra fuss, especially because Fitbit can connect to several popular running apps. All Fitbits use proprietary movement tracking technology, and many include GPS functionality, a heart rate monitor and a blood-oxygen monitor. Fitbits also offer information on calories burned, steps taken and distance traveled.
We’ve compiled everything you need to know about Fitbit for running, including the considerations that might go into your Fitbit purchase. Don’t miss our testing insights on the Fitbit Charge 5!
Shop this article: Fitbit Sense 2, Fitbit Versa 3 and Fitbit Versa 4
What to consider when choosing your Fitbit
Fitness tracker vs. smartwatch
The differences between fitness trackers and smartwatches have lessened over the years, but the rule of thumb is that smartwatches are more versatile and expensive. Initially, the fitness tracker was a simple band without a display, while the smartwatch was equipped with multiple features and phone functionality. Over time, fitness trackers have started to share some features with smartwatches.
Battery life
There’s nothing worse than strapping on your running shoes only to discover that your Fitbit’s battery is low. Even the most power-hungry Fitbits can hold a charge for 7-10 hours, and some can even last for months.
Fitbits and heart rate monitors
Fitbits use LED technology to detect blood flow and monitor heart rate. Heart rate monitoring is a crucial consideration for some runners who are working on their endurance. Knowing your physical limits and heart health can help you improve your run benchmarks.
Touch screen vs. no touch screen
The benefit of a touch screen is that it will allow you easier access to Fitbit’s features. Switching songs, interacting with notifications and customizing your preferences are all easier with a touch screen. The trade-off for increased usability is that touch screens offer shorter battery life, feel bulkier against your wrist and cost more.
Comfort
A clunky or poor-fitting fitness tracker can mess up your rhythm and even bruise your wrist. While Fitbits are known to be comfortable and discreet, your experience may vary. Fitbit smartwatches offer alternative band options to personalize your experience and comfort.
Extra features
Fitbit is an established name in the running community. The brand now offers products that include sleep tracking, work management and quick payment. Individual runners will need to determine if this additional functionality meets their needs.
Fitbit running watches
Smartwatch trackers
Fitbit’s newest offering, the Sense 2, is designed to be one of the most advanced health smartwatches. It features a suite of tools to help manage stress, including a blood oxygen monitor and breath coaching.
The Versa 3 is Fitbit’s flagship model, with six days of battery life, added GPS and a comfortable fit. The Versa 3 offers GPS, heart-rate monitoring, fast charge capabilities and connectivity with essential fitness apps.
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The Versa 4 is the latest Fitbit smartwatch and features a built-in GPS and workout intensity map, Active Zone Minutes, all-day activity tracking and a heart rate monitor. It is also compatible with Bluetooth phones for hands-free calling.
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Trackers
With a built-in GPS tracker and heart rate monitor, this tracker is one of Fitbit’s most popular trackers. It’s sleek, modern and has popular features like a GPS, allowing you to go phone-free on your run.
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Bare-bones and straightforward, the Inspire 2 offers everything you need in a tracker. It is sleek, small, highly affordable and comes with impressive battery life.
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The Charge 5 is the latest tracker from Fitbit and features a Stress Management Score, heart rate notifications, and a Health Metrics dashboard. In addition to all the health trackers, it has a built-in GPS, and the battery lasts several days. Our tester praised the easy-to-read screen, long-lasting battery, and plentitude of workout data.
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If you’re looking for a child-friendly tracker, we’d suggest the Ace 3. It’s designed with parental controls and motivational challenges for kids 6 years old and up.
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Chad Vickers writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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