Fitbit Charge 4 vs Charge 6 – Which Should You Buy?

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Fitbit Charge 6 and Charge 4 have some key differences. The Fitbit Charge 6 is the latest in the Charge series, offering upgraded Google app support and improved heart rate accuracy. The Fitbit Charge 4 remains a reliable and popular model with reliable tracking and built-in GPS. Let’s explore their differences to find your perfect fit!

Feature-by-Feature Breakdown

Processor:

  • The Fitbit Charge 6 features an upgraded processor that improves UI responsiveness and speeds up app transitions.
  • Fitbit Charge 4 uses an older processor, which performs slightly slower.
Winner:

Fitbit Charge 6

Display:

  • Fitbit Charge 6 has a larger 1.04-inch AMOLED display to provide more space for complications, text, and animations.
  • Fitbit Charge 4 uses a 0.9-inch grayscale OLED screen.
Winner:

Fitbit Charge 6

Operating System:

  • The Fitbit Charge 6 runs on a newer Fitbit OS with support for Google apps that expand functionality and provide smarter tools.
  • The Fitbit Charge 4 uses a simpler OS without smart app integration.
Winner:

Fitbit Charge 6

Google Services:

  • The Fitbit Charge 6 comes with Google Maps and Google Wallet that allow users to get directions and make payments directly from the wrist.
  • The Fitbit Charge 4 supports Fitbit Pay but lacks any navigation features.
Winner:

Fitbit Charge 6

Workout Modes:

  • Fitbit Charge 6 supports over 40 workout modes and real-time heart rate broadcasting to gym equipment for more fitness versatility.
  • The Fitbit Charge 4 includes around 20 basic exercise modes.
Winner:

Fitbit Charge 6

Heart Rate Monitoring:

  • The Fitbit Charge 6 features an enhanced heart rate algorithm that delivers more accurate readings during high-intensity workouts and motion-heavy activities.
  • The Fitbit Charge 4 includes standard heart rate tracking, which is less advanced.
Winner:

Fitbit Charge 6

Connectivity:

  • The Fitbit Charge 6 supports Bluetooth 5.0 that enables faster pairing and more stable device connections.
  • The Fitbit Charge 4 uses Bluetooth 4.0, which is slower and less efficient.
Winner:

Fitbit Charge 6

Charging:

  • The Fitbit Charge 6 includes a faster charging system that reduces downtime between uses.
  • Fitbit Charge 4 uses a slower charger and takes longer to reach full capacity.
Winner:

Fitbit Charge 6

Stress Monitoring:

  • The Fitbit Charge 6 includes a Body Response sensor that helps track and manage stress through continuous skin activity detection.
  • The Fitbit Charge 4 lacks this sensor and only provides passive stress indicators.
Winner:

Fitbit Charge 6

YouTube Music Controls:

  • Fitbit Charge 6 has YouTube Music controls for allowing you to manage playback directly on their wrist.
  • Fitbit charge 4 does not support music controls.
Winner:

Fitbit Charge 6

Specs at a Glance

FeatureFitbit Charge 6Fitbit Charge 4
DisplayAMOLED color touchscreenGrayscale OLED touchscreen
Built-in GPSYesYes
Battery LifeUp to 7 daysUp to 7 days
Google Apps SupportGoogle Maps, Google Wallet, YouTube MusicNot supported
Heart Rate on EquipmentYes (via Gym Equipment Mode)No
Physical Side ButtonYes (haptic button replaced with mechanical button)No (inductive solid-state button only)
Stress Management ToolsYesLimited
ECG AppNoNo
Body Response SensorYesNo
Skin Temperature TrackingYesYes
SpO2 MonitoringYesYes
Workout Modes40+20+
Bluetooth VersionBluetooth 5.0Bluetooth 4.0
Premium Trial Included6 months90 days

 

Who Should Buy What?

Buy the Fitbit Charge 6 if you:

  • Want the latest tech with Google apps like Maps and Wallet.
  • Prefer a vibrant color display for better visuals and readability.
  • Need more accurate heart rate data and stress tracking tools.
  • Use gym equipment and want Bluetooth heart rate broadcasting.
  • Like having access to more exercise modes and advanced tracking.

Check Fitbit Charge 6 Best Price

Buy the Fitbit Charge 4 if you:

  • Are on a tighter budget but still want built-in GPS and sleep tracking.
  • Don’t need smart features like Google Maps or Wallet.
  • Prefer a simpler tracker with fewer distractions.
  • Like the classic Fitbit experience without needing a Google account.
  • Are upgrading from an older tracker and want a reliable option at a lower price.

Check Fitbit Charge 4 Best Price

Winner by Category

CategoryWinner
ProcessorFitbit Charge 6
Operating SystemFitbit Charge 6
Physical Side ButtonFitbit Charge 6
Body Response SensorFitbit Charge 6
Health Metrics TileFitbit Charge 6
UI ResponsivenessFitbit Charge 6
Google Wallet and MapsFitbit Charge 6
YouTube Music ControlsFitbit Charge 6
Enhanced Heart Rate AlgorithmFitbit Charge 6
Exercise ModesFitbit Charge 6
Bluetooth ConnectivityFitbit Charge 6
Haptic FeedbackFitbit Charge 6

What They Have in Common

  • Built-In GPS: Both the Fitbit Charge 4 and Charge 6 feature built-in GPS, allowing you to track pace and distance without carrying your phone. This is great for runners and cyclists who want accurate route data.
  • Heart Rate Monitoring: Each model offers continuous heart rate tracking, helping you monitor your workout intensity, resting heart rate, and trends over time for better fitness insights.
  • Sleep Tracking: Both devices provide advanced sleep tracking with sleep stage breakdowns, giving you detailed insights into your sleep quality and helping you improve rest habits.
  • Water Resistance: The Charge 4 and Charge 6 are water-resistant up to 50 meters, so you can wear them while swimming, showering, or in the rain without worry.
  • Smart Notifications: Both models support smartphone notifications, letting you receive call, text, and app alerts on your wrist to stay connected on the go.

FAQ (Quick Answers)

Does the Fitbit Charge 6 have built-in GPS like the Charge 4?
Yes, the Fitbit Charge 6 includes built-in GPS just like the Charge 4, allowing you to track outdoor runs, walks, and rides without needing to carry your phone.

Can the Fitbit Charge 6 be used without a Google account?
No, the Fitbit Charge 6 requires a Google account to set up and access features like Google Maps, Google Wallet, and app syncing.

Is the display on the Fitbit Charge 6 better than the Charge 4?
Yes, the Fitbit Charge 6 has a vibrant AMOLED color touchscreen, which is brighter and more visually engaging than the grayscale OLED screen on the Charge 4.

Does the Fitbit Charge 6 work with gym equipment for heart rate sharing?
Yes, the Charge 6 includes Gym Equipment Mode that allows heart rate broadcasting to compatible machines via Bluetooth, a feature not available on the Charge 4.

Are the bands interchangeable between Fitbit Charge 6 and Charge 4?
No, the bands for Charge 6 are not compatible with the Charge 4 due to slight design differences in the body and band connectors.

What health sensors are included in the Fitbit Charge 6?
The Fitbit Charge 6 includes a heart rate monitor, skin temperature sensor, SpO2 sensor, and a Body Response sensor for stress tracking, whereas the Charge 4 lacks the Body Response sensor.

Does the Fitbit Charge 6 support contactless payments?
Yes, it supports Google Wallet for broader contactless payment compatibility, while the Charge 4 only supports Fitbit Pay with fewer supported banks.

How many exercise modes does the Fitbit Charge 6 support?
The Fitbit Charge 6 supports over 40 exercise modes, offering more options compared to the 20+ modes available on the Charge 4.

Can both trackers monitor sleep and provide sleep scores?
Yes, both the Fitbit Charge 6 and Charge 4 can track sleep stages and provide a daily sleep score to help users understand sleep quality.

Is the Fitbit Premium trial longer with the Charge 6?
Yes, the Fitbit Charge 6 includes a 6-month trial of Fitbit Premium, while the Charge 4 typically comes with a 90-day trial.

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