Apple Watch vs. Fitbit: How Are They Different?

The Apple Watch is known for its sleek, modern and minimalist aesthetics, which is typical of Apple’s product design principles. Key aspects of the Apple Watch’s design include:

• Rectangular case. Rectangular cases with rounded corners provide a distinctive and contemporary look that are available in a variety of sizes.
• Premium materials. Apple offers aluminum, stainless steel, titanium and ceramic materials, allowing you to choose a finish that suits your style and budget.
• Interchangeable bands. Apple Watch bands can be easily changed and replaced, letting you switch between different styles and materials.
• OLED display. OLED displays, which are known for vibrant colors and sharp resolution, are typically protected by scratch-resistant glass.

One of the biggest differences between Apple Watch and Fitbit is all of the Apple Watch’s various characteristics that provide a wide range of capabilities in addition to fitness features. Features of an Apple Watch typically include:

• Music and media. You can control music playback on your iPhone or listen to music directly stored on the watch while also streaming podcasts and audiobooks.
• Navigation. With a built-in compass and haptic feedback on your wrist, you can get turn-by-turn directions, which is especially useful when walking or biking.
• Applications. A wide range of apps are available, including health and fitness, productivity, communication and entertainment apps.
• Emergency SOS and fall detection. The Apple Watch automatically detects falls and initiates an emergency call if needed.

Apple Watches are a popular choice among people seeking a comprehensive and convenient way to track their physical activity and hopefully improve their overall well-being. Notable fitness capabilities of an Apple Watch are:

• Activity tracking. Detailed information about your daily activities, such as number of steps taken, distance covered and calories burned, can motivate you to reach daily activity goals.
• Heart rate monitoring. A built-in optical sensor continuously monitors your heart rate throughout the day and during workouts.
• Blood oxygen monitoring. Some models are equipped with a sensor that measures the oxygen saturation in your blood, potentially providing insights into respiratory health.
• Sleep tracking. You can monitor sleep patterns to help establish healthier sleep habits.

Additionally, Apple Watches can store health records while also encouraging users to stay motivated by participating in fitness challenges with friends, making it a good fitness watch.

Fitbit watches are known for their practical design, focusing on comfort, durability and user-friendliness. Some key features of a Fitbit smartwatch’s design include:

• Sleek and lightweight body. Fitbits watches for men and Fitbit watches for women are slim and lightweight, making them comfortable for all-day wear.
• Touchscreen display. Equipped with touchscreens that are easy to navigate and interact with, Fitbits feature a vivid and easy-to-read interface.
• Interchangeable bands. Similar to the Apple Watch, you can change the look and feel of your watch to match your style and activity with interchangeable Fitbit wristbands.
• Physical buttons. Many models feature physical buttons for additional control, which is useful during sweaty workouts or in wet conditions. 

Fitbit smartwatches come with a variety of features designed to help you track your fitness, monitor your health and stay connected. Some common features found in Fitbits include:

• Notifications. You can receive calls, send and receive text messages and be alerted of calendar events.
• Music and media. Similar to an Apple Watch, you can listen to music, podcasts and audio books on a Fitbit smartwatch. You can also store music directly on the Fitbit with certain models.
• Voice assistance. Voice assistants, such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, can be used to create a hands-free experience.
• Applications. If you access the Fitbit App Gallery, you can install third-party apps to extend the device’s functionality.

Fitbit watches are a popular choice for those who want to track and improve their physical activity and exercise regimen. The extensive fitness capabilities of a Fitbit include:

• Exercise and workout tracking. A wide variety of exercise modes are available that are designed to accurately track specific activities like running, cycling, swimming, yoga and strength training.
• Activity tracking. Continuously monitoring daily activities such as the number of steps taken, distance traveled and calories burned, Fitbits display this data for comprehensive tracking.
• Guided workouts. Fitbit smartwatches provide access to guided workouts and exercise programs designed to help you achieve specific fitness goals.
• Caloric intake tracking. Through the Fitbit app, you can log your food and water intake, helping you monitor the amount of your daily calories.

Fitbits also track your heart rate, sleep patterns and blood oxygen levels. Additionally, most models provide access to guided workouts and exercise programs, making the Fitbit watch one of the most comprehensive fitness trackers available.

Now that you have a better idea of the fitness tracker and smartwatch differences, hopefully you can decide if you’re better off with a new Apple Watch or a new Fitbit. Regardless of which one you ultimately go with, both Apple Watches and Fitbit smartwatches promote healthier lifestyles while providing valuable insights and unmatched convenience.

Additional information: These statements and any information contained herein are intended for educational purposes only and are not meant to substitute for medical care or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. Carefully review product labels for instructions and important safety information and consider consulting with a health care professional regarding your use of health and wellness products.