Fitbit Charge 6: A Comprehensive Review

The Fitbit Charge 6 is Fitbit’s most advanced band-style fitness tracker, boasting more features than the Luxe model and even some extras the Versa 4 lacks. It’s undeniably an impressive fitness wearable, resembling a shrunk-down, slightly simplified version of the Fitbit Sense 2. In fact, it includes the flagship watch’s ECG heart health readings and the EDA stress sensor, making it seem like the best Fitbit overall. However, there is a significant issue that emerged during testing that tarnishes its appeal to a certain extent.

One of its key features, GPS, encounters major issues when the strap is done up fairly tightly, which is important for achieving the best possible heart rate readings. While it poses a significant hindrance for outdoor workouts, it can still take location data from a connected phone. However, this issue detracts from an otherwise impressive fitness wearable.

The Fitbit Charge 6’s specifications include a price of $159.99 / £139.99 / AU $259.99, dimensions of 38 x 18.5 x 11.6mm, and a weight of 37.64 g. It also features a 1.4-inch full-color AMOLED display, Bluetooth connectivity, and is water-resistant up to 5ATM.

Despite this issue, the Fitbit Charge 6 has proven to be a refreshing departure from its predecessors. It’s competitively priced at $159 / £139 / AU$229, which makes it slightly more affordable than the Fitbit Charge 5. However, like other Fitbit products, it is advisable to keep an eye out for deals and discounts before making a purchase.

In terms of design and display, the Fitbit Charge 6 is light, comfortable, and unobtrusive. It features a glass-covered touchscreen and a new non-moving side button. Although it resembles the Fitbit Charge 5, it offers advanced features usually seen in higher-end models. Its 1.04-inch OLED screen provides clear visibility for notifications and custom watch faces. The only major change externally is the use of a non-moving tactile, pressure-sensitive surface instead of a physical button.

However, when it comes to performance, the Fitbit Charge 6 has encountered issues such as unreliable GPS when the strap is fastened tightly and some inaccuracies in heart rate readings. Nonetheless, with a battery life of up to seven days, it is well-suited for passive use and is highly effective in monitoring health metrics in the background. Additionally, the Fitbit Charge 6 excels in sleep tracking, providing accurate and insightful data.

Despite some shortcomings, the Fitbit Charge 6 offers a compelling package that stands out from the competition. Its advanced health features, coupled with a sleek design, make it a desirable fitness wearable. An affordable price tag further enhances its appeal, making it a strong contender in the fitness tracker market. While it is not without flaws, the Fitbit Charge 6 has demonstrated its potential to be a worthy addition to Fitbit’s lineup.