Fitbit Charge 4 vs Charge 5: Which One to Buy?

Are you wondering whether the Fitbit Charge 4 or Charge 5 is the right fitness tracker for you? Both models offer plenty of features, but is the newer Charge 5 worth the upgrade? Read on to find out if it's worth making the switch in this Fitbit Charge 4 vs Charge 5 comparison.

Fitbit Charge 4 vs Charge 5: The Verdict

The Verdict: Fitbit Charge 5 wins

The Fitbit Charge 5 comes out on top against the Charge 4, thanks to its improved health tracking. With the addition of ECG and EDA sensors, a brighter color display, and six months of Fitbit Premium, it brings more value to users who are looking for cutting-edge health and fitness tracking tools.

However, the Fitbit Charge 4 remains an excellent choice for those on a budget or who prioritize controlling music through Spotify during workouts — a feature absent in the Charge 5. 

For a more technical comparison between these models, read on to the next section. Now, let’s pinpoint where each model stands out compared to the other.

Best Overall: Fitbit Charge 5

When considering overall performance, the Fitbit Charge 5 takes the crown. It offers ECG and EDA sensors that help track heart health and stress levels more accurately. With its fancy design and bright AMOLED color display, it stands out as the better option for those who want the latest in fitness technology.

Best Budget-Friendly: Fitbit Charge 4

If you’re after an affordable fitness tracker, then The Fitbit Charge 4 is the ideal pick for you. With frequent discounts, it offers a great balance of fitness tracking and functionality. The inclusion of GPS, water resistance, and the ability to control music make it perfect for users who don’t need advanced health sensors but still want reliable activity tracking.

Best Fitness Tracking: Fitbit Charge 5

Both the Charge 4 and Charge 5 are excellent fitness trackers, but the Charge 5 holds a slight edge with more sensors and a brighter display, which can be easier to read during outdoor activities. Both models are also perfect for runners, cyclists, or swimmers. They offer comprehensive workout modes and built-in GPS for more accurate activity tracking.

Best Health Monitoring: Fitbit Charge 5

For users focused on monitoring their health beyond basic fitness metrics, the Fitbit Charge 5 is the better option. Its ECG and EDA sensors help monitor heart rhythm and stress, offering insights that are especially useful for users with heart conditions or those looking to manage stress better. These additional features bring more value to those who prioritize their health.

Best Design and Display: Fitbit Charge 5

The Charge 5 is a clear winner when it comes to design, thanks to its vibrant AMOLED display and sleeker stainless steel case. Its bright, easy-to-read screen is a significant improvement over the monochrome display of the Charge 4, making it much more suitable for users who prefer a more modern look and better visibility during outdoor workouts.

Best for Long Workouts: Fitbit Charge 4

Both models feature a seven-day battery life, but the Charge 4 might edge ahead for those who prioritize extended battery usage, especially when not utilizing advanced sensors. The Charge 4 maintains a long battery life even with its GPS running, which is ideal for users who engage in long-duration activities without needing to change frequently.

Fitbit Charge 4 vs Charge 5: Detailed Comparison

Disclaimer: This is not a product review. I’ve gathered information from multiple sources, verified its accuracy, conducted additional research, and condensed it all into this section. I haven’t personally tested these devices.

Similarities

• Fitness Tracking: Both the Charge 4 and Charge 5 track essentials like heart rate, steps, distance, and calories burned. They also come with GPS for tracking outdoor activities.
• Water Resistance: Both models are water-resistant up to 50 meters, making them great for swimming and water-based workouts.
• Sleep Tracking: Each device offers sleep tracking with detailed insights into different sleep stages.
• Battery Life: Both can last up to 7 days on a single charge, though battery life can vary depending on features like GPS usage.

Differences

• Display: The Fitbit Charge 4's monochrome OLED display is functional but outdated, especially for viewing workout data or notifications. The Fitbit Charge 5 has a vibrant color AMOLED display that delivers sharp, clear graphics. The always-on option lets you quickly check stats and notifications, even during the most intense workouts.
• Sensors: The Charge 4 includes heart rate monitoring, SpO2 (blood oxygen), and GPS. The Charge 5 adds ECG (electrocardiogram) and EDA (electrodermal activity) sensors for advanced heart rhythm and stress level tracking​.
• Design: The Charge 4 features a plastic case with an angular, utilitarian look, and it comes in a variety of silicone, woven nylon, and leather bands. The Charge 5, on the other hand, features a stainless steel case that is not only more premium in appearance but also 10% thinner.
• Health Monitoring: The Charge 4 covers the basics like heart rate and oxygen levels, but the Charge 5 steps it up with extras like ECG for heart health and EDA to track stress, which you won’t find on the Charge 4.
• Music Controls: The Fitbit Charge 4 lets you control Spotify right from the device. But if you're going for the Charge 5 with its advanced health tracking, you'll have to give up that music control feature since it doesn't support it.
• Daily Readiness Score: The Daily Readiness Score is a standout feature of the Fitbit Charge 5. This capability, which requires a Fitbit Premium subscription, assesses your body’s readiness for exercise based on sleep quality, recent activity, and heart rate variability. Unlike the Charge 4, which lacks this advanced feature, the Charge 5 allows users to make more informed decisions about workout intensity. This ultimately helps optimize fitness routines and prevents the risk of overtraining.

4 alternatives to Fitbit Charge 4 vs Charge 5

1. Aether X Limited Edition Designer Smartwatch

Ultimate luxury smartwatch

The limited edition Aether X smartwatch is a luxury watch with a modern design and advanced health features. It has a metallic body, a genuine red patina leather strap, and a variety of health-tracking features, including 45 sports modes, sleep tracking, and stress management. Only 10,000 pieces will be available, and the watch comes with free shipping and up to 25% off.

2. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6

Best for Samsung users

Starting at $299 for the 40mm version and $329 for the 43mm version, the Galaxy Watch 6 is a top-tier smartwatch, especially for Android and Samsung users. It excels in health tracking with features like body composition analysis and snoring detection. 

Designed to help you reach your fitness goals, it offers personalized workout guidance and sleep coaching. Its stylish, large display and smart features make it a versatile companion for everyday life. This smartwatch provides both style and practicality. 

3. Garmin Forerunner 165

Best for running

If you’re a running enthusiast, then Garmin smartwatches are for you. Garmin Forerunner leads the running watch market with a diverse selection of models. Known for its precision and extensive features, the Forerunner 165 meets the needs of most runners.

This model, which costs $249, offers a great balance between price and performance with features like accurate GPS, heart rate monitoring, and smart notifications. 

4. Apple Watch Series 10

Best for Apple and iOS users

Another awesome alternative to the Fitbit Charge 4 and 5 is the Apple Watch Series 10. This smartwatch has the biggest and most advanced display of any Apple Watch. It’s also thinner and lighter, so it feels really comfortable to wear all day. 

Some standout health features include sleep apnea notifications, a water temperature sensor, and advanced fitness tracking for all kinds of workouts. With the powerful S10 chip, you get on-device Siri — a handy double-tap gesture for quick interactions, and an impressive battery life of up to 36 hours in Low Power Mode. Also, it comes in fun finishes like Jet Black and Rose Gold —perfect for fitness lovers and casual users alike!

Conclusion

All things considered, the Charge 5 is the obvious pick in this comparison between the Fitbit Charge 4 and Charge 5. It offers a bright AMOLED display and advanced health sensors like ECG and EDA, plus a Daily Readiness Score for personalized insights. The sleek stainless steel design adds a nice touch. While the Charge 4 is a budget-friendly option, the Charge 5 provides better longevity and support. For anyone serious about fitness tracking, the Charge 5 is definitely worth the investment.