What's The Difference Between The Fitbit Charge 3 Vs. Fitbit Charge 4

The pandemic compelled the world to be more mindful — of what they touch, who they meet, and how many rolls of toilet paper they had at home. Inevitably, this hyper-awareness had many committed to fitness routines and Vitamin C stockpiling during quarantine (via The New York Times). Fitness trackers also felt a direct boost in sales because of COVID-19, with the market projected to grow to $114 billion by 2028 (via Fortune Business Insights).

Fitbit's trackers have made upgrades and updates to the initial pedometer the brand released in 2008 (via Wareable), keeping them relevant in the world of fitness enthusiasts. Models now track floors climbed, calories burned, sleep patterns and come in multiple colors. Some advanced models, like the Versa, combine tracker and smartwatch abilities. 

However, if you're looking for something simple — a tracker that will do its job without overwhelming features — you may want to shortlist the Fitbit Charge 3 and 4. Read on to know more about each.

Fitbit's Charge 3 and Charge 4 are lightweight fitness devices that can track movement, steps, sleep patterns, and blood oxygen saturation. You can connect either device to the FitBit app and analyze these variables, whether it's the level of REM or deep sleep you're getting or your heart rate at the beginning and end of a workout (via Tech Radar). Their battery lives are also similar — they can go uncharged for about 7 days. Both also have a mindfulness app configured with deep breathing exercises.

However, the main difference between the two is that the Charge 4 has a built-in GPS. You can leave your phone at home but still have your run tracked by the Charge 4, per Tech Radar. The Charge 3 tracks movement as a Bluetooth-Enabled device and you would need your phone with you. The Charge 4 also lets you control your Spotify playlist while working out, unlike the Charge 3. Considering that both are priced similarly, Tech Radar recommends the Charge 4 over the Charge 3. 

Fitbit has also released the Charge 5, which has a color display and also tracks your ECG (via Forbes), if you're looking for the most recent model.