Fitbit Charge 4 Vs Charge 5 – Which Should You Buy?

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Fitbit Charge 5 and Charge 4 have some key differences. The Fitbit Charge 5 is newer and includes more advanced sensors and a refined AMOLED display. 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 5 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 5

Display:

  • Fitbit Charge 5 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 5

Operating System:

  • The Fitbit Charge 5 runs a streamlined interface that is optimized for touch navigation and AMOLED visuals.
  • The Fitbit Charge 4 runs an older Fitbit UI designed for grayscale display.
Winner:

Fitbit Charge 5

Fitness Features:

  • The Fitbit Charge 5 includes an EDA sensor and ECG app that provide stress response tracking and heart rhythm assessments.
  • The Fitbit Charge 4 includes standard heart rate and sleep tracking without advanced health sensors.
Winner:

Fitbit Charge 5

Connectivity:

  • The Fitbit Charge 5 supports Bluetooth LE and NFC that enable faster syncing and secure contactless payments.
  • The Fitbit Charge 4 supports Bluetooth and NFC with slower syncing in some cases.
Winner:

Fitbit Charge 5

Charging:

  • The Fitbit Charge 5 comes with a magnetic charger that simplifies attachment and reduces wear on the port.
  • The Fitbit Charge 4 uses a clip-style charger with a bulkier form factor.
Winner:

Fitbit Charge 5

Durability:

  • The Fitbit Charge 5 includes a Corning Gorilla Glass 3 screen that helps resist scratches during daily wear.
  • The Fitbit Charge 4 has a plastic case and screen with less impact resistance.
Winner:

Fitbit Charge 5

Specs at a Glance

FeatureFitbit Charge 5Fitbit Charge 4
Display TypeAMOLEDGrayscale OLED
Display Size1.04 inches1.0 inch
Display BrightnessUp to 450 nitsUp to 200 nits
TouchscreenYesYes
Button TypeNo physical buttonPhysical side button
Built-in GPSYesYes
Battery LifeUp to 7 daysUp to 7 days
Stress TrackingYes (EDA Scan App)No
ECG AppYesNo
Daily Readiness ScoreYesNo
Google Wallet SupportYesNo
Heart Rate AlgorithmNewer (PurePulse 2.0)Older version
ConnectivityBluetooth, NFCBluetooth, NFC
Fitbit OSUpdated UIClassic Fitbit UI

 

Who Should Buy What?

Buy the Fitbit Charge 5 if you:

  • Want the latest health sensors like ECG and EDA for deeper insights.
  • Prefer a bright, full-color AMOLED screen with better outdoor visibility.
  • Need Google Wallet support for easier tap-to-pay transactions.
  • Like improved heart rate accuracy and advanced sleep tracking features.
  • Want access to Daily Readiness Score for optimized workouts and recovery.

Check Fitbit Charge 5 Best Price

Buy the Fitbit Charge 4 if you:

  • Want to spend less and still get solid fitness tracking with built-in GPS.
  • Prefer the feel of a physical side button for easier navigation.
  • Don’t need advanced sensors like ECG or EDA.
  • Are happy with grayscale displays and more basic health insights.
  • Need a reliable tracker for steps, workouts, and sleep without the extras.

Check Fitbit Charge 4 Best Price

Winner by Category

CategoryWinner
ProcessorFitbit Charge 5
Operating SystemFitbit Charge 5
Physical ButtonFitbit Charge 4
Body Response SensorFitbit Charge 5
ECG SensorFitbit Charge 5
EDA SensorFitbit Charge 5
DisplayFitbit Charge 5
Display SizeFitbit Charge 5
BrightnessFitbit Charge 5
UI ResponsivenessFitbit Charge 5
Daily Readiness ScoreFitbit Charge 5

What They Have in Common

  • Built-in GPS: Both trackers have built-in GPS, allowing you to accurately track outdoor runs, walks, and bike rides without carrying your phone.
  • Heart Rate Monitoring: Each device features 24/7 heart rate tracking, giving users insights into resting heart rate and workout intensity.
  • Sleep Tracking: Both models include sleep tracking capabilities, helping you monitor sleep stages and overall rest quality.
  • Water Resistance: Each tracker is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making them suitable for swimming and showering.
  • Smart Notifications: Both devices deliver call, text, and app notifications from your smartphone, so you stay connected on the go.

FAQ (Quick Answers)

Does the Fitbit Charge 5 have a better display than the Charge 4?
Yes, the Fitbit Charge 5 has a full-color AMOLED display that is brighter and more vibrant than the grayscale OLED screen on the Charge 4, making it easier to read in sunlight and more visually appealing overall.

Can both Fitbit Charge 5 and Charge 4 track workouts without a phone?
Yes, both models come with built-in GPS, allowing users to track their distance, pace, and routes during workouts without needing to carry their phone.

Does the Fitbit Charge 5 support ECG and stress tracking?
Yes, the Charge 5 includes both ECG for heart rhythm analysis and an EDA sensor for stress management, while the Charge 4 lacks both features.

Is there a physical button on the Fitbit Charge 5?
No, the Fitbit Charge 5 uses a fully touch-based interface and does not include a physical side button, unlike the Charge 4 which has a haptic side button for navigation.

Which model has a longer battery life, Charge 5 or Charge 4?
Both the Fitbit Charge 5 and Charge 4 have a similar battery life of up to 7 days under normal usage, though GPS usage can reduce it on both devices.

Does the Fitbit Charge 5 support Google Wallet?
Yes, the Charge 5 supports Google Wallet for contactless payments, while the Charge 4 only supports Fitbit Pay, which has more limited bank compatibility.

Are both Charge 5 and Charge 4 compatible with the Fitbit app?
Yes, both trackers sync with the Fitbit app on Android and iOS, giving access to health stats, activity history, and fitness goals.

Can I swim with the Fitbit Charge 5 and Charge 4?
Yes, both devices are water-resistant up to 50 meters, making them suitable for swimming and showering.

Is the Fitbit Charge 5 worth the extra cost compared to Charge 4?
If you want advanced features like a brighter screen, ECG, EDA, and Daily Readiness Score, the Charge 5 is worth the upgrade. If you only need basic fitness tracking, the Charge 4 is still a solid, more affordable choice.

Do both devices track SpO2 or blood oxygen levels?
Yes, both the Fitbit Charge 5 and Charge 4 include an SpO2 sensor to track estimated blood oxygen variation during sleep, but detailed tracking may require a Fitbit Premium subscription.

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