New Fitbit Charge HR bracelet – Fitness tracker review. New Fitbit Charge HR - Fitbit Charge HR Fitness Tracker Review: Heart Rate Tracking

There is an opinion that when a Fitbit fitness bracelet suddenly starts to glitch or freezes, in most cases it is better to simply restart it than to try to figure out the causes of the problem.

Ideally, of course, it should never glitch or fail at all, i.e. and you also never need to reboot it.

However, as practice shows, from time to time it still happens. In addition, different models reboot in different ways, plus the procedure itself takes several minutes, and this is if you know how to do what and how.

In general, there is a certain problem, but it can be solved.

So, for starters, here’s a short list that can often be eliminated by simply rebooting the device:

• the bracelet does not sync with the smartphone;
• The Fitbit bracelet is frozen and does not respond to button presses, taps and swipes;
• The bracelet does not turn on even after being fully charged;
• The Fitbit bracelet does not work properly, that is, it has stopped monitoring and tracking.

Along the way, there is one piece of good news: after a reboot, profile data in Fitbit is not deleted, so all the latest information about activity will be saved. However, call records, messages, and calendar notifications will be deleted.

Actually, now about how to reboot the Fitbit bracelet.

As we have already said, each Fitbit model implements this procedure differently. Therefore, further - in order of priority. Go:

how to reset Fitbit Zip tracker:

It is equipped with a removable battery, so the process of rebooting it actually boils down to removing the battery and thus turning off the tracker for a while. To remove the battery from the Fitbit Zip:

• Using the special tool included with the Fitbit Zip (a small plastic screwdriver), open the battery compartment cover (it is located on the back of the bracelet body);
• carefully remove the battery;
• wait 10 seconds;
• We return the battery to its place, paying attention to the polarity (plus side up), and close the lid.

The Fitbit Zip operating system will then reboot. You will know that the reboot procedure is complete when its version number and a series of emoticons appear on the device screen.

how to reset Fitbit One tracker

Here you will need a computer - maybe a desktop PC, maybe a laptop - and a standard USB cable through which you charge your One. Further:

• then we connect the tracker itself to the cable;
• now press and hold the tracker button for 10-12 seconds;
• disconnect One from the cable;
• Just press the tracker button, turn it on, check.

If you did everything correctly, your Fitbit One will boot up in a few seconds, so to speak, in a completely ready state for further work.

How to reset your Fitbit Flex bracelet

Here, too, you can’t do without a computer and a proprietary USB charger cable. You will also need a paper clip or toothpick (or any sufficiently thin and durable object). If any are available, then:

• First, connect the cable to a free USB port on your computer;
• connect the Flex itself to the cable (to do this, you need to remove it from the bracelet);
• on the back of the cable cradle we find a small button;
• Press this button with the end of a paperclip or toothpick and hold the press for 3-5 seconds;
• disconnect the tracker from the cable.

The Flex will then blink its LED several times to indicate that the reboot procedure has been successfully completed.

How to reset a Fitbit Charge or Charge HR bracelet

We also find a computer and a charger cable, then:

• First, connect the cable to a free USB port on your computer;
• connect the Charge itself to the cable;
• press and hold the tracker button for 10-12 seconds until the Fitbit icon appears on the screen with the OS version number next to it;
• release the button.

The reboot procedure is completed, the tracker should work normally.

how to reset Fitbit Alta bracelet

• First, connect the cable to a free USB port on your computer;
• connect your Alta to the cable;
• We find a button on the USB connector of the cable; in 8 seconds it must be pressed three times with short pauses between presses.

If a company logo appears on the tracker screen, it means you did everything correctly, and the tracker can be disconnected from the cable.

how to reset Fitbit Blaze tracker

• on the tracker, simultaneously press and hold the Back and Select buttons (see picture) until the FitBit logo appears on the screen;

How to reset Fitbit Surge:

• on the tracker, simultaneously press and hold the Back and Select buttons (see picture) until the FitBit logo appears on the Surge screen;
• release the buttons, wait another 10 seconds and turn on the tracker (press the Back button), the Surge is rebooted.

Contents of delivery

• Bracelet with choice of strap size – S, L, XL (XL sold online only)
• USB charging cable
• Bluetooth adapter for PC
• Instructions

FitBit is trying to maintain its leadership in the smart pedometer market; for this, the company has expanded its line of devices as much as possible - the range includes both small clip-on devices (FitBit One), and bracelets or even sports watches. Even though they use the same technologies inside, these devices are very different in positioning and who chooses them. Thus, the majority of sales already come from bracelets (70 percent), a smaller part from clips, with which the company began to conquer the market, and it’s too early to talk about watches. The sports bracelet market has clearly evolved, these devices have become popular, and you can often see people wearing an ordinary watch on one hand and a sports bracelet on the other. Inside FitBit, the word “sport” is treated extremely carefully, since most pedometers are not intended for those who engage in active sports, but rather for people who view fitness as a component of life and a good mood. For athletes - the same FitBit Surge watch.

The world is divided into those who want to know more about themselves and those who are not interested. There is no need to convince others of the benefits of the same pedometers; they still won’t understand it and won’t accept any arguments. Pedometers are already available on most smartphones as a built-in option, which is why people find it pointless to buy a separate device. To some extent, FitBit Charge HR is a response to this trend.

The free availability of pedometers on smartphones makes their measurement inaccuracy secondary; many people do not care about this. It is approximately clear how much you have gone through, this is enough for the eyes. In fact, the rise of pedometers in phones is shrinking the market for FitBit, and the Charge HR is a response. Many devices now have the ability to measure heart rate, for example, Samsung phones have a separate sensor to which you can put your finger and get fairly accurate data. But this is terribly inconvenient, and it is impossible to constantly obtain heart rate data in this way. FitBit decided that the pedometer should measure data 24/7, that is, constantly and without user intervention. Why is this necessary? It all depends on what you are doing. For regular people walking their 10,000 steps, this information can provide insight into their walking pace and whether they are burning fat or doing cardio. For those who are involved in amateur running, it will provide visual graphs of changes in pace and heart rate, allowing them to understand themselves a little better. Let's see how the product turned out, what features it has.

On the company's website you can print out the dimensions on a piece of paper and choose a bracelet that suits you. For my large hands, size L fits, but it's literally the last hole. XL bracelets are sold online only.

Externally, Charge and Charge HR seem to be twin brothers; the company even chose the same color schemes.

But the difference is that the strap clasp is now not a latch, but a regular one, like on a watch. It's plastic, which raises questions about long-term use, but at first glance, there shouldn't be any problems. If your hand is small, then the remaining length of the strap can be hidden under the lock.

The color options are like this.

The bracelet is soft, quite good on the hand. Due to the cells on the rubber, dirt very quickly accumulates on the outside, so you need to wash the bracelet (carefully, since it does not have water protection, only splash protection). Some users report that they experience irritation from the bracelet if they wear it for a long time. I don’t have very sensitive skin, but if I don’t wash the bracelet once a week, irritation appears and my hand under the bracelet starts to itch. Moreover, it does not clasp the hand tightly! Nothing like this has happened to me with other bracelets; I feel like it’s all about the material. Let me remind you that things did not work out for the company with the first bracelet; many complained of skin irritation and that product was recalled from the market. Then I didn’t have any irritation, but here I have it. Everything is individual, as you understand.

From an ergonomic point of view, this is one of the most comfortable bracelets in its class. A small display scrolls by pressing a key information about time, steps taken, distance (in metric system or miles, inches), calories, number of flights of stairs, pulse. In the settings on your smartphone or PC, you can change how information is displayed and make the display more convenient for your tasks.

There is an additional setting: by double tapping, you can immediately remove any of the listed parameters from rest mode. For example, I configured this option to show the number of steps. Pressing the button shows the time, tapping shows the steps. Comfortable.

Just like with all FitBit pedometers, you need to set up the software on iOS/Android or in your browser (for a PC, use the included USB Dongle), for me, it’s more convenient to set up synchronization with your phone, then you don’t have to think about it, all the data is always up to date .

When you first set up, you indicate your gender, weight, height and other information about yourself. It's probably worth indicating your real last name and first name so that your friends can easily find you and compete to see who has walked the most in a day, week or month. The social component in such devices is very important.

You can choose how the watch will look on the small screen, but the difference is not very noticeable.

There are silent alarm clocks, when you can set the bracelet to vibrate, it will wake you up very gently. You can turn it off by pressing the button.

You can charge the bracelet in an hour from a computer, this will be enough for you for 5 days, all data for 7 days (minute-by-minute) or 30 days (results of each day for each parameter) are stored in memory, but I think that synchronization will occur more often.

Among the new and somewhat useless options, I note that when connected to a smartphone, the bracelet is able to show the number or name of the caller (they scroll on the screen, since it is small and does not fit everything). I don’t know how necessary this is; the option, in my opinion, is quite useless. Bluetooth version – 4.0.

Sleep tracking is much more interesting, especially since the bracelet on your wrist does not interfere at all, even while you sleep.

On the Fitbit website, you can see all the information about your activity throughout the day (and other time periods). Additional options include the ability to enter data about food and your weight. Both the first and second options are unnecessary for me; I don’t use them. Perhaps someone will find them useful.

And now the most important thing is the social component. You can add other people as friends, see how far they have walked, this motivates many to small feats, especially when these are good friends. The measurement accuracy of FitBit pedometers is one of the best on the market, they can be considered a standard, there are almost no false alarms. And it's all about the steps. But let's take a look at how things stand with measuring heart rate.

How the pulse is measured - disadvantages of technology

WITH inside you will see a heart rate sensor, these are two green LEDs, as well as an optical sensor. The abbreviation HR in the name stands for Heart Rate, but the technology was called PurePulse. MIO Alpha of all versions, and many other devices, work in a similar way. The advantage of this approach is that the measurement occurs by illuminating the skin with light from the visible spectrum, which does not cause harm. Changes in blood vessels depending on pressure are measured, and then this data is processed. The advantage is that the technology allows you to receive data 24 hours a day, for at least 5 days from a single charge. But if you turn off the sensor, the operating time will increase even more.

Now about the measurement accuracy. Of course, if you compare it with sensors that are built into phones and you need to put your finger on them, you will get approximately the same results. They won't be much different, but this is a measurement at rest that we shouldn't be too interested in. While walking, I compared the results with the MIO Alpha, they turned out to be approximately the same, I noticed that on the Charge HR these results come with a slight delay of a couple of seconds, perhaps this is how the measurement algorithm works.

And now the most interesting thing - the technology built into the Charge HR requires relative immobility of the hand; vibration or sudden movements will cause the measurements to be inaccurate. The company does not say that you cannot use the bracelet for some types of activity, such as playing tennis. But in fact, cycling gives the most accurate measurements, running - a little worse, playing tennis - quite bad. Any hand movements affect the quality of measurements! And here we come to the most unpleasant moment of this tracker, it is inaccurate in most situations under intense loads.

Imagine that you came to the gym and decided to do a little dancing. You jump, swing your arms, and the tracker measures your heart rate in those few moments when your limbs are in a fixed position. That is, it selects relative rest values, which leads to an underestimation of the heart rate, this is how the algorithm works, and it definitely loses to any cardiac belt that accurately reads the data. If you squat with a barbell or do a bench press, then another problem arises - the exercise puts a lot of stress on both the heart and blood vessels, but it is short-lived. That is, at the moment the measurement also does not occur and the value lags behind the real one.

There is a huge thread on the Fitbit support forum discussing the results of measurements with other heart sensors, at high load and intensity of exercise (for example, running), the difference between the Charge HR is in lower values, which differ by 20-35 percent depending on the person. This is extremely far from a statistical error, the results are extremely inaccurate, and cannot be used in practice. Look at the graph below.

One user showed a difference with the Polar H7 sensor, the Charge HR result is the bottom one with the shaded area. Is the discrepancy impressive? Not that word. At the link you can find almost fifty pages of disappointments and very detailed comparisons with other heart rate sensors. The main feature that is advertised in the Charge HR has proven to be wildly inaccurate in the results it produces. Is there a use for the sensor? Of course, if you only walk and there are no heavy loads. Will a fix be available with new firmware versions? I very much doubt it, since it is impossible to change the sensor itself, and the inaccuracy is related to the algorithm of its operation. Garbage input data cannot produce accurate output data.

To be honest, I was disappointed in this bracelet because of the way it measures heart rate. Moreover, similar problems exist in the Surge, meaning the watch is also susceptible to the same problem. For those who wanted to buy these devices for running or sports, I definitely don’t recommend them, only for walking, and then at a calm pace.

It’s probably not so important how the software on a smartphone is designed if heart rate measurement doesn’t work, but I’ll still dwell on this point, there’s also something interesting here. Despite the fact that the bracelet has a vibration motor, there are no pulse measurement zones; they are shown later in the program, and the peak values ​​that are visible on the bracelet are filtered out for some reason, you don’t see them. Apparently, FitBit considered that there was a high probability of error. Zones are calculated according to the standard principle: 220 minus age is the maximum value. Resting state is 50%, fat burning is 50-69%, cardio load is 70-84%, peak zone is from 85%.

There are no warnings about moving from one zone to another. Moreover, during training the screen goes dark and does not show data. The same Alpha Mio constantly displays them on a large and high-quality screen, the pulse is visible in any conditions.

Disappointment. Measuring heart rate on the Charge HR with relative accuracy is only possible for very specific users; in all other situations it is a useless toy that gives incorrect data. Focusing on the results of measuring the pulse on this device can be dangerous to health, since the pulse value in reality will be higher, and it will be easy to bring yourself to a state of fainting. This is what a report on heart rate and load looks like in a program on a computer or smartphone.

Impression

FitBit is doing well, and sales of the Charge HR and Surge are such that they cannot be quickly purchased even in countries where they have long been present. I bought my bracelet at MWC, they were swept away at a speed of several pieces per minute, and the girls only had time to drag large boxes. There is a huge interest in such devices, people are trying out what it is.

But the problem is that this bracelet performs its main function, heart rate measurement, very poorly. Its price is 149 dollars/euro, while for 129 you can buy a regular Charge. And I think you won’t go wrong at all by choosing it. Why? Yes, because this bracelet simply counts your steps well and has all the capabilities except measuring your pulse. But if you need heart rate measurement, then the MIO Alpha is worth a look.

This watch has fewer functions, but it measures your heart rate more accurately and always shows it in real time. And this is a big plus for such a device. For jogging, it’s still worth looking at a cardio belt and some other device; nothing more precise has been invented, although this technology also has a flaw; such belts are not very comfortable for many. But measurement accuracy requires sacrifice. There is no point in buying the Charge HR; this device copes with the stated functions of measuring heart rate in a very conditional and inaccurate manner.

Last year was very successful for Fitbit, because it was then that Alta and Blaze were released. Now the company offers sequels to classic models – Fitbit Charge 2 and Fitbit Flex 2.

Charge 2 costs 5,100 rubles - more expensive than Alta, but cheaper than Blaze, and approximately the same price as Fitbit Charge HR and Charge at the time of their sales launch. The Charge 2 comes with new features and functionality including breath monitoring, interchangeable bands, a larger display and a new VO 2 Max data tracking system.

If the Alta has a noticeable desire for simplicity, and the Blaze has some capabilities of a fitness watch, then the Charge 2 is more difficult to classify. This is definitely not smart watch, but also not the most powerful fitness tracker available. Rather, it embodies a certain dividing line and approaches the "nearly the best" since it does not have the features that the Samsung Gear Fit 2 and Microsoft Band 2 boast.

We first tested this Fitbit bracelet for several weeks and gave a preliminary verdict, but then we carried out long-term testing and are ready to provide our conclusions about the Fitbit Charge 2.

Fitbit Charge 2: design and ease of use

The Charge 2 retains the signature look of Fitbit bands. While there are clear similarities to its direct predecessors, as well as the Fitbit Alta and a little bit with the Surge, it is also much sleeker, with a larger black-and-white OLED display - four times larger than the older Charge gadgets. The polished silver body, the same as the Alta model, also adds elegance. The clasp design is similar to that of the Charge and Charge HR and holds the bracelet firmly in place. However, the clasp is not very comfortable and often requires additional effort to thread the strap.

The display is undoubtedly large enough and fits more comfortably on the wrist than the Surge. The overall design is quite aesthetically pleasing, perhaps due to the size of the display. It's larger than the Alta, but smaller than the Surge (and even the Fitbit Blaze), which means you can see a little more information without increasing the screen size too much.

For a device that typically requires so little user intervention, this Fitbit bracelet is surprisingly difficult to use. The indicators are scrolled by touching the touch screen. You can switch between different modes by pressing the side button, and then move through exercises by moving your finger across the display. To access the mode, you need to hold down the button. It seems that Fitbit is well aware that they are not so easy with the tracker - tips for controlling the device appear on the display during the first few hours of use. It will take some time to get used to it.

It's a little annoying to not be able to scroll back. If you need to return to the previous item, you have to completely scroll through the menu in direct order. There are not many menu items, but this still adds unnecessary fuss, especially if the user is in a hurry.

The sensitivity of the display also sometimes raises questions. The impression is that for it to work properly you need to be in a certain position and hold your hand at a certain angle. In addition, the display is not always illuminated when needed.

The heart rate monitor on the back of the case protrudes slightly. However, we used the Charge 2 for quite some time and noticed this feature less often than expected. Finding the right position may require some adjustment, but once done everything will be in place and very comfortable. Just behind the wrist bone is the ideal place to read your pulse.

There is no doubt that the bracelet, if desired, can be worn for other purposes besides fitness - the strap is suitable for different things. The Classic strap for 1,500 rubles is available in black, dark purple, blue and turquoise, there are also special versions - a black strap with a gunmetal case or lavender with rose gold (the latter option is more expensive). Like the Alta, the Charge 2 also comes with a Luxe leather strap available as an accessory, available in brown, pink or indigo. color scheme. It will cost 4,300 rubles.

In fact, we're still quite surprised that Fitbit didn't include this feature in the Charge 2, even though the Flex 2 does have a waterproof design. The Charge 2 is waterproof in the sense that it's resistant to sweat or rain, but the manufacturers don't recommend taking it into the shower with you, which is annoying. If Charge 2 can do so much, then it should also give the opportunity not to take it off in the pool - so it seems to us.

Fitbit Charge 2: activity monitoring

Holding the side button starts manual tracking of specific workouts, and upon completion you will receive a detailed report in mobile application. Charge 2 also features SmartTrack, which automatically tracks running, cycling and other activities. Sleep is also tracked automatically, along with floors climbed, active minutes, and hourly activity.

1. Sleep monitoring. Sleep tracking has proven to be quite accurate, although not always perfect. Comparing our fitness bracelet with a specialized sleep tracker Beddit 3, we saw that the indicators often coincided within five minutes. At times, Fitbit had difficulty determining the exact moment of awakening - especially if, after waking up, lay in bed for a while - confusing restless sleep with wakefulness. Be that as it may, the device recorded toilet breaks and subsequent falls asleep very well, and this provides enough data to analyze each night's sleep. The lack of settings for the tracker itself for sleep mode or dimming the screen is annoying - if you toss and turn in bed, the fitness bracelet will illuminate the room.
2. Pedometer. Now about step tracking. One thing Charge 2 definitely can’t be accused of is being stingy. It's not easy to check if pedometers are working correctly, but we definitely noticed that the Charge 2 overestimates the indicators. We first saw this in a long-distance test and comparison with the Garmin Fenix ​​3, but in our long-term test there was also a tendency towards overestimation. The Charge 2 also misses out on some stair climbing. This problem also occurs in other accessories for counting steps taken, and Charge 2 is simply no exception.
3. Heart rate monitor. As mentioned, Charge 2 has a built-in heart rate monitor, so you won't have to choose between the two options. Fitbit's PurePulse technology is used to continuously track your heart rate both during and outside of your workouts. There's no built-in GPS, and the Charge 2 relies on a connection to your phone via ConnectedGPS to determine speed and distance. All of these features are present in one form or another in other Fitbit bracelets, but the determination of maximum oxygen consumption (VO 2 Max) and controlled breathing training appear only in this model.

Maximum oxygen consumption (VO 2 Max)

In the Fitbit app, VO 2 Max is designated Cardio Fitness Level. When left on while you sleep, Charge 2 measures your resting heart rate. It then analyzes your user profile - age, height, weight and fitness data - and compares you with other people of your gender and age. Fat burning charts, optimal heart rate zones for cardio training and peak exercise are also provided. So far, this is the most detailed and complete training instructions among all Fitbit bracelets to date.

There are some inconveniences with accessing the data - they can only be viewed in the Fitbit app on your smartphone. Unlike resting heart rate, long-term monitoring is not required to determine the “heart performance level”; it appears on the display after some time. We're not sure why Fitbit didn't give this fitness band the ability to see a graph of your maximum oxygen consumption.

Calculating your VO 2 Max properly requires you to pass a pretty serious test in a sports science lab, so you should understand that any Fitbit Charge 2 data will be an approximation. It gave us 49 – close to Jabra Sport Pulse (47) and Garmin Fenix ​​3 (48). Since this can be considered at the top end of the scale, there are no complaints here. We also gave the Fitbit to someone else for a day and it made a difference. The latter indicates at least the level of sensitivity to data changes.

The heart rate feature is one of our favorites on the Fitbit Charge 2. It's a fairly accurate measure of fitness parameters that's new to the company's ecosystem of gadgets—and we hope to see this feature evolve and become even more useful over time.

Guided breathing

Deep breathing to calm yourself is not a new concept, so Fitbit didn't reinvent the wheel here. Rather, we were provided with a good, convenient reminder tool. Therefore, the controlled breathing option is somewhat unexpected, but useful and came in handy.

Fitbit Charge 2 personalizes its breathing program based on your heart rate and finding a good rhythm, making sure you don't inhale too deeply or exhale too quickly. In fact, this is Fitbit's first introduction of some major new technologies, and the first time heart rate variability is used on such devices. You can also do a two- or five-minute session just for relaxation, or to cool down after a workout.

After taking your heart rate readings, Charge 2 prepares you to breathe in time with the pulsating ring that appears on the screen.

When we first used this option to cool down after a workout, it felt like we were doing something wrong—inhaling too deeply and practically holding our breath. The second time, the goal was to relax and relieve stress. This worked better, allowing me to breathe in time with the animation on the display. We then used the feature in both variants many times during long-term testing and were pleased. Charge 2 was able to accurately determine the correct rhythm, allowing you to follow the display's breathing rate instructions. The animation has a strangely calming effect, and after prolonged use, two minutes goes by quite quickly. I also liked the lack of indicators as to whether you are doing everything correctly. You can call them up on the display, but if you don’t want to, no one is forcing you.

Workout with heart rate tracking

The accuracy of the new PurePulse heart rate sensor is interesting, but on the Charge 2 it's a frustrating mix of strengths and weaknesses.

I can't help but rejoice at the resting heart rate (RHR) option. When tracking it, we compared the results with data from our Garmin Vivosmart HR. It turned out that Blaze often overestimated RHR, so this feature shows clear progress compared to previous versions.

Overall, the long-term testing data was helpful. Although, when compared with measurements from the chest strap, the sensor took 10 minutes to detect the pulse.

We also saw that, despite fairly high accuracy over long-term tests, the heart rate monitor still tends to underestimate the current heart rate, often by 5 beats per minute. When it comes to HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training), we tend to consider the Charge 2 more of a miss than a hit. We did a couple of high-intensity sessions and experienced a few issues with the Charge 2.

The first problem is lag. Often, after reaching a heart rate of 180 bpm, the Charge 2 would get stuck at 115. This usually corrected itself during the workout, but often the Charge 2 would lag almost an entire interval.

However, the heart rate discrepancies with the chest strap showed up more clearly in the current display readings than in the app results - it seemed like Fitbit's algorithm was better at understanding post-workout data. Often, after long workouts, the difference in indicators was no more than 3 beats/min, despite all the nonsense that was displayed on the display directly during the workout.

Fitbit has already released an update to fix some of the device's shortcomings. For example, ConnectedGPS previously sometimes produced obvious errors. As for Blaze, it is still clear: the device is more suitable for Everyday life ordinary people than for hardcore fitness fans. Despite the addition of a VO 2 Max option, the device doesn't handle high-intensity workouts.

Notifications

The Charge 2 isn't a smartwatch and doesn't try to hide that fact. When you receive notifications, you won't be able to respond to them or view them on your fitness bracelet - they simply disappear.

Charge 2 can show notifications for calls, messages and calendar reminders, but your phone must be connected. Since our first review, WhatsApp notifications have started working on the Charge 2, but only with Android phones. At the same time, other notifications from the connected device now work with both iOS and Android.

When receiving a call or message, Charge 2 gives a short vibration signal, then displays the phone number (and/or name) of the subscriber. Long messages are shown cropped, and emoticons and emoticons are not visible at all. And yet, the next update will allow you to change the way notifications are displayed - so that messages are displayed before the contact data. You may also see a + icon to indicate that you have received more than one notification. This update will be available for Charge 2 in the coming weeks.

If you've used Fitbit before, you'll already be familiar with the app, which hasn't changed much for the Charge 2. All the information is in the usual places, including graphs and data about connected devices, and you can still see the leaderboard.

New things await us in the motivation section – Challenges. Fitbit has developed an "Adventures" game for its entire line, not just the Charge 2.

The concept of Adventures is quite witty and entertaining. There are different levels and steps challenges for different locations - for example, you will need to take 15,000 steps to “walk” around the famous Yosemite Falls in California. This means that every step you take at home, at work, and anywhere else is mapped to a walking distance in the Fitbit app. You can see your progress on the map, and the app tells you how many steps you have left to go. You don't have to complete the entire game at once, although the app does give you daily challenges based on your average daily steps.

Completing a given number of steps on the “trail” opens another panoramic photo of real locations that were photographed specifically by Fitbit. These locations are called “Landmarks” in the application. The company claims that approximately the same number of steps would be required to visit these locations in real life. Upon reaching the location, you can move your phone to view the surroundings in a panoramic photo. There are also "treasures" to be found. “Treasures” are quite trivial - these are short quizzes on a healthy lifestyle and motivation.

Playing Adventures was fun and easy because all you have to do is press start. Sometimes you might even forget you're playing, so it's nice to get reminders of your goals on the Charge 2's display. But other than that, we liked to see the route on the map, which coincided with the usual number of steps per day. We definitely would have preferred to hike near a real Yosemite Falls, but that would be fun too.

Battery

Fitbit says the Charge 2's battery can last up to 5 days, depending on usage. This was surprising since the same battery life was claimed for earlier versions of the Charge with a much smaller display. By comparison, the Alta should last five days on a single charge, but lasted just over a week in our testing.

By turning on all possible notifications, we were able to use the Charge 2 for about six days without recharging. And after charging for 15-20 minutes, they wore it for another six days. As with the Alta, the battery performs even better than advertised.

It's nice to know that we'll get almost a week of battery life out of the Charge 2, but it would be even better to see a battery indicator on the device itself. However, there is good news in this regard: the indicator will be in a new update, which is currently in the process of being released. Having to look through an app for information that feels like it should be on the screen of the device itself was annoying, so this is a welcome change.

Problem solved

Pros: Accurately counts steps and fairly accurate heart rate. The best application among trackers. Disadvantages: Proprietary charging connector, modest design, no battery charge indication Comment: I used the bracelet for 1 year and 7 months, before that I tried Up, but I didn’t like it at all - it’s thick, it gets caught, you have to go to the app for information. I only took this one off at night and wore it on my right hand, as I love classic watches. A very convenient instant timer function - it has come in handy hundreds of times even outside of fitness activities. Before buying the bracelet, I was stressed that I might not hear my cell phone ringing - I weaned myself off this problem thanks to the vibration when I received an incoming call. Alas, there is no Cyrillic alphabet in the bracelet and therefore the name of the caller is not shown. The charge lasted for three or four days, it is very inconvenient that it does not show it as a percentage. You really get used to it, because it’s not a phone and the load on the bracelet is about the same every day. A cool feature - the application itself sends a letter to the registered email when the battery is almost empty, so that it can be charged. The pulse count is not perfect, but as far as I understand it is very difficult to do absolutely accurately, so there is always an error. It was enough for my runs, but then I realized that a bracelet with a heart rate monitor is probably no longer needed - there are no such loads and workouts where it would be vitally necessary. I think I would have continued to use it, but I had an unsuccessful swim with it and the screen stopped working. Although I had swam many times before. I think over time the bracelet dries out from wear and the seal becomes weaker. The next bracelet I ordered was also a fitbit, only a new Alta model. The application has an excellent system of badges - awards for achievements and a very cool internal social network with competitions.

Advantages: Measures pulse directly on the hand, without sensors on the body, vibration alarms (2 pcs.), motivational program from the manufacturer, good software, fast charging, ease of control, stopwatch, activity statistics Disadvantages: Cannot be left even in the shower (constantly removing it is annoying , previously I even forgot to put it on after a shower), arms should be straightened from 90 degrees and above relative to the horizontal plane, otherwise the heart rate monitor lies, there are bugs with synchronization (or it does not complete at all or takes a very long time) Comment: I am a fitness trainer and I wear device constantly. And if I previously recommended this heart rate monitor to my clients, now, perhaps, there are more interesting models. What are the disadvantages? Very critical for me is the lack of protection from water (only from splashes, but this is clearly not enough), I have to constantly remove the bracelet. The pulse is correct during cardio (in this case, the hands should be located at chest level and above), here the accuracy is no worse than that of Polar with a sensor. But during strength training, the pulse goes astray, so it is impossible to track when it is necessary to complete the approach based on the pulse. The same applies to circuit (functional) training. For experienced athletes, in general, there are no problems (although there is also no particular point in such a device); for beginners or fitness tourists, the model is definitely not suitable. Experience of use - a year, previously used Polar products (they have their own nuances, the most inconvenient thing is the chest sensor, the belt is always washed, etc.). The device is generally reliable, charges quickly (about 30-40 minutes), holds a charge for 4-6 days (depending on activity), shows the caller's number, which is convenient during training, is not noticeable, and is relatively shock-resistant :) I will probably change it in a year or a little later, I will still need a silent alarm clock, a stopwatch, protection from water (preferably with immersion up to 3 meters), a heart rate monitor with instant heart rate detection on the device itself, a design closer to a sports watch (a la the latest models from Samsung, Motorola, Alcatel), in the budget up to 10k (if oil does not fall below 20 by then :). I hope the review was helpful, good luck with your choice

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Advantages: Fine tuning. You can set daily goals based on the following parameters: number of steps, number of flights of stairs climbed (counts only stairs climbed), number of calories burned, distance traveled and number of active minutes. From the indicated goals, you need to choose one main one. When it is reached, it vibrates. Enter your parameters (weight, height, age), as well as adjust the step length when walking and running. Those who write about the inaccuracy of the tracker simply did not configure these parameters. I checked it on a treadmill with an odometer, recalculated the number of steps, 98% accuracy + Heart rate monitor. This is very cool. Firstly, it allows you to evaluate the work of the heart in daytime mode, using the “Resting pulse” parameter. It allowed me to see that regular exercise (running) actually reduces the resting heart rate, which indicates the strengthening of the heart muscle. Secondly, it allows you to regulate your workout in an optimal way, using the heart rate zone you need online, and also provides very detailed statistics on the results of the workout (second by second: changes in heart rate, calories burned, heart rate zone). Application. Works on all platforms, both PC and phones. I have a combination of Win 7 and VinFon 8.1 laptop. There is a weight diary (I enter the data manually). The coolest thing is setting goals for all parameters for the day and monitoring them. The application itself recalculates daily goals into weekly and monthly ones and shows all statistics for the selected periods. Sometimes he sends messages by email (weekly reports and some achievements: 50 km covered, etc.). Pleasant to the touch, high-quality made gadget. Durable and comfortable clasp. The most important plus is that it perfectly motivates you to be active :) Disadvantages: For maximum effect, you need to learn 30-40 words in English (there is no Russified application). The sensor is pressed into the hand, after long wearing it leaves a fingerprint (disappears quite quickly). It’s not critical for me, I just change the position on my arm (a centimeter higher/lower) 2-3 times a day. There were no allergic or other consequences. When driving around the city, he practically doesn’t count his steps (in a 30-minute drive he added 12 steps). But when I took a bus, and even in the back seat (it shakes a lot), I went to another city (the journey took 1 hour and 15 minutes), and the trip cost me several kilometers and a couple of dozen flights of stairs. I smoked the forum, found a cure - time the start and end of the trip, and enter the “Driving” training for this time. The application will erase steps, distance, active minutes, etc. , leaving you with only the calculated number of calories (very small). Comment: battery - 4 days in auto mode + 2..4 hours in training mode

Advantages: Comfortable to wear, presence of a screen. Disadvantages: Long synchronization, no integration with HealtKit on iOS Comment: Used for 7 months. The button fell off after 4 months. It seems that it was touched in the gym, but not as much as it might seem. It’s good that you can do without it, the tracker responds to taps. The alarm clock is good, not smart, but over time you realize that this is not so important. Sometimes it gets stuck and goes off again, even though I’m already awake and walking around the room. The charge lasts for 4-5 days, it’s a pity that notifications in the application about a low charge are somehow strange (or rather, they are almost never shown, although they are configured), i.e. One day you will forget to charge it, and then it will run out in about half a day. It was important for me to see the pulse without having a smartphone, because... I don’t take it with me when playing sports. Analogues at a price of about 10 thousand rubles. I don’t see it, unless it’s Mi Band 1s (but it has pulse indicators, and not exactly a number, although that’s not bad either. But then it wasn’t sold yet). Long synchronization (probably due to heart rate data), in the background on the iPhone it does not synchronize (not sure if it’s an application bug, perhaps an iOS limitation). It also cost 59 rubles. Buy a separate app to sync data with the Health app on iPhone. I don't understand why they haven't done this yet, it's not that difficult. There are inaccuracies in calculating mileage; on the website in the settings you can calibrate it by indicating the step length when walking and running. While I indicated for running, it became more accurate, otherwise there was a difference of -2 km with an actual distance of 7-9 km.

Advantages: Pulse measurement, appearance, battery life for 4-5 days. Forces you to take care of yourself (control of activity, water consumption). Disadvantages: Works only with its own poor application in which there are no other sports activities besides running, walking and hiking. The program itself does not have the ability to record the maximum speed. You can’t connect it to other sports apps (although I’m not sure whose fault it is, the bracelet or the app developer). You cannot overlay exercise and heart rate graphs on the map. As the gadget developers have already noted here, they completely ignore the Russian language, you can figure it out, but the sediment remains. An incomprehensible function for monitoring sleep cycles, why it is needed is not really clear. The bracelet does not have a smart alarm clock; it can only vibrate to wake you up at a set time. There is no water protection, the maximum is to wash your hands with it. Synchronization between the phone and the bracelet occurs only if the Internet is available. Price (bought at the end of February for 14,000), although now it has fallen a little in price, but in order to get moral satisfaction it must fall in price even more. Comment: I set out to buy myself a fitness bracelet with a heart rate monitoring function. The main criterion was design, because... The very meaning of the bracelet lies in its constant wearing. I wear the gadget on my right hand, because... on the left is the clock. I wanted a smart alarm clock, I read in the description that there was an alarm clock, but he didn’t specify which one, I thought for such a price it was a given - I was disappointed. When playing sports (running, skiing, cycling, rollerblading, etc.) you have to use two applications. The pulse measures well, at first I fastened it tightly and during physical activity, when my hand sweated, I lost my pulse, but now I make it free and lose my pulse much less often. In general, the gadget copes with its task, monitors physical activity, and you can see the dynamics. Looks good on the hand. Verdict, if I knew all this, I wouldn’t buy it.

Advantages: Constant measurements pulse Heart rate monitoring while running is the main function for me and it works well. An excellent feature - while running, you don’t have to feel the button, but tap the bracelet twice to display the selected information. Counting calories and steps is no worse or better than in other trackers. The quiet alarm clock pleased my wife, who gets up later than me. Disadvantages: Not waterproof, minus point for that. I’m wearing my second smartphone from Sony and have already forgotten what it means to protect wearable equipment from water. After training, removing and washing the bracelet with soap under the tap would be the best thing to do. Comment: For those who complain that driving a car takes extra steps - excuse me, high American technology is being crushed by the harsh Russian reality. If you drive on a flat road, your steps will not increase. If you shake on potholes, go around potholes and brake sharply, they increase. There are exactly 2 options: move to a place where there are normal roads or simply remove the tracker before driving.

Advantages: Holds a charge for an average of 3 days, with the heart rate monitor working non-stop and that’s cool.. It’s officially said that you can synchronize with the Fitbit website once every 3 days (there is no more memory in the device), but at the same time I personally did the synchronization at intervals of 10 days and everything is fine_ on the website there are heart rate charts, etc. for all 10 days.. There are watches that can show the date, a vibrate alarm clock. It’s up to you to decide whether you’re sleeping or not. The step counter is quite adequate, and if you just walk all day, the counting is very accurate. Able to count approximately calories burned and distance traveled in km. YES shows when you started sleeping, when you finished and when and how much you tossed and turned (went to the toilet).. Shows the efficiency of sleep in %, like 10 hours of sleep, 2 hours of tossing and turning means 80%. Disadvantages: 1) a device that you wear on your body regularly cannot be washed! (I washed it under the tap for 2 weeks, the rubber strap began to peel off from the electronic filling, I glued everything together with superglue and can no longer wear it.) The strap can sometimes irritate the skin. It can be treated by applying any cream and then putting on the device. 2) Does not measure body temperature. 3) The device is charged only through a unique wire. NO wireless charging. 4) The device understands whether you are sleeping (lying around) or awake. Able to count steps, distance, and hours. And knowing that I took, say, 150 steps in a minute (i.e., I ran), it cannot itself record that I RUN. Or 50 steps in 2 minutes means walking. Those. on the Fitbit website they have a column for running and so on.. And they suggest that we enter the data manually, today I ran so much... BUT the entire hardware of the device allows you to determine these parameters automatically... Fitbit developers Ау - what nonsense (5)Data accuracy... The heart rate monitor at first seemed like a fairly thin device. But let’s say if I’m sitting earlier, my pulse is ~55-70 (on the street where there are more schoolgirls in skirts). I suddenly stood up and my pulse ran ~ 80-120 (depending on how fast). Now sometimes this happens: you’re sitting, your pulse is 50, you get up, you run, you look at your pulse and it shows 80-90-110, there’s some kind of delay... The same applies to steps, if you go early, press watch steps, I’m walking and you can see that the step is on the screen +1 step and +1 more, and now you walk 100 steps and sit down. You look at the screen, and there the number of steps is old, ~ a minute passes and the number of steps is updated. 6) Fitbit website. The data and the way he shows them, perhaps many will like how cool and beautiful everything is here. BUT in general, for more demanding people, this cannot be called an intuitive, convenient, and usable interface for users. Write down what you ate, done on 2. 7) The effectiveness of % sleep should be shown based on daily activity, whether it has recovered or not. And not how much he tossed and turned during hibernation.. Just like how much water you need to drink, and not just based on weight and height. Comment: These devices are just coming to the masses, and are still crude and not properly adjusted. They can be said to be pioneers. And most likely in the near future, these devices will be much better and they will be recommended to be worn by all sorts of doctors, athletes and others (health advocates, etc.)... At the moment, such devices, this or any other competitor, are simply activity trackers . They show your activity and record it in your account for your own statistics. They say today you slept for 10 hours and of that you tossed and turned for 2 hours. Yesterday you walked 10 km and today 500 meters (you didn’t leave the apartment)... That is. the analysis itself: Yesterday I slept little and poorly, or today I walked a record 20 km (this is too much)! If you ask whether it is worth buying, then yes. Buy it, try it, judge for yourself, only you can judge. Whatever they choose on the market will support such companies, and most likely they will improve their products in the future. Or a competitor will appear who will understand that he can do it better and cheaper, and that these devices are needed and in demand. Good luck with your choice.

Advantages: Excellent device, it’s interesting to set goals and achieve them, everything in the application is very clear, shows various statistics, a picture of sleep. Disadvantages: The Fitbit application does not have Russian language. You cannot swim wearing a bracelet. Comment: I liked the tracker. We use it for 3 days. It looks nice in appearance, the clasp is comfortable, like on a regular watch. It's nice to hold in your hands. The strap is made of a material that is pleasant to the touch. It’s not very convenient that the application is not Russified, but everything there is quite clear, and you can figure it out even without knowing English. The application is smart and pleasant. It’s interesting to watch your achievements, look at statistics and graphs, monitor your pulse, and observe your sleep patterns. The tracker requires a more or less new Android, it doesn’t work with a phone with Android 4.1, another phone has Android 4.4. - everything is installed and works great. In general, it’s a useful and pleasant toy, we liked it, and we don’t regret waiting for the fitbit HR to come out. But maybe a little expensive, even for such a good thing. Although what is cheap now)))