Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
Fitbit devices may be among the most popular wearables in the world, but they aren’t the only ones out there. Garmin, Apple,Samsung, and many other companies make comparable or even better fitness trackers and smartwatches for the money. Here are the best Fitbit alternatives you can buy right now.
Buying the right Fitbit alternative for your needs
Fitbit has the budget-friendly and mid-range health tracker landscape covered. Fitbit smartwatchesoffer big displays and extra features, while the company’s trackers offer much lower price tags and fewer tools. For this list, we’ve chosen devices that match each Fitbit device’s feature set and price point. Not every pick is a 1:1 alternative — but we’ve done our best to offer close comparisons.
The best Fitbit alternatives
- Garmin Venu 3: The best Fitbit smartwatch alternative you can buy, the Garmin Venu 3 offers smart features and a robust fitness tracking suite.
- Apple Watch Series 9: The best Fitbit smartwatch alternative for iPhone users is the Apple Watch Series 9, thanks to its unparalleled app support, seamless iPhone integration, and tough build.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 series: The best Wear OS smartwatch option, a device from the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 series is a specifically strong choice for Samsung phone users.
- Garmin Venu Sq 2: The best Fitbit Charge 6 alternative, the Garmin Venu Sq 2 has a smartwatch form factor but a feature set similar to that of Fitbit’s top tracker.
- Xiaomi Mi Band 8: The best Fitbit Inspire 3 and Fitbit Luxe alternative you can buy, the Mi Band 8 offers a cheap price point and solid fitness tracking.
- Garmin Forerunner 265:Garmin’s midrange running watch is the best Fitbit Ionic alternative. It has an AMOLED display on users’ wrists and a boatload of advanced training features.
- Google Pixel Watch 2: Some shoppers will consider the Google Pixel Watch 2 a Fitbit device, and others won’t. Nonetheless, this Fitbit/Wear OS mashup is a solid alternative to a conventional Fitbit smartwatch.
Garmin Venu 3: The best Fitbit Sense, Sense 2, Versa 3, and Versa 4 alternative
Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
When comparing Garmin vs Fitbitin terms of user experience, Garmin offers more detailed fitness tracking for dedicated athletes. The company also boasts a robust companion app that can be overwhelming at first glance but is easy to navigate once you spend time with it. Most importantly, Garmin devices, including the Venu 3, boast highly accurate GPS tracking and heart rate sensors.
The Garmin Venu 2 was already a stellar alternative to the Fitbit stable ofsmartwatches, and the 2 Plusmodel made an even more compelling argument. The Venu 3 builds on the success of its predecessorswith the return of on-device calling, voice assistant support, and ECG readings. It also improves overnight tracking, including sleep coaching and automatic nap detection.
During our review, we were especially excited to see the line is now available in two sizes, offering a Venu 3S for smaller wrists. We found the watch very comfortable for workouts and all-day wear. Thanks to its long battery life, we only needed to take it off every four to five days to charge.
Garmin Venu 3
Highly accurate GPS and heart rate sensors • Automatic nap detection and sleep coaching • Up to 14-day battery life
MSRP: $449.99
Accuracy and smarts.
The Garmin Venu 3 and Venu 3S focus on providing personalized data about your health and wellness with some of Garmin's most advanced body tracking features. The Body Battery function informs you of your activity levels, and new sleep tracking includes nap detection.
Pros
Highly accurate GPS and heart rate sensors
Automatic nap detection and sleep coaching
On-device phone call and voice assistant support
Up to 14-day battery life
Larger display
Cons
Pricey compared to competitors
No LTE model
Apple Watch Series 9: The best Fitbit alternative for iPhone users
Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
Series 9
For iPhone users, there’s no better smartwatch than an Apple Watch. The Apple Watch Series 9 is the company’s latest model and the best smartwatch currently available. The device packs a colorful and responsive AMOLED touchscreen display, an attractive, durable build, and a powerful S9 chipset. Thanks to its upgraded internals, it offers tools like Double Tap gesture control and onboard Siri queries. Meanwhile, watchOS 10 offers a host of upgrades and added features, including the return of stackable widgets on users’ watch faces.
Athletes will find useful performance metrics, workout options, and crucial wellness tools like medication management and the mindfulness app. Both the device’s heart rate sensor and GPS tracking proved exceptional during our review period. Meanwhile, at the center of the user experience, the App Store remains an endless resource for additional third-party features.
The battery specs on the Apple Watch still leave a lot to be desired. However, Apple does offer low-power mode to help users mitigate the limitation.
Apple Watch Series 9
Powerful processor • Upgraded display with 2000 nit brightness • Gesture controls and Siri features
MSRP: $399.00
Apple's most convenient smartwatch
The new S9 chip makes the Apple Watch Series 9 the most capable, and battery friendly Apple watch to date. Enjoy improved security, improved functionality in low-connectivity situations, and improved health tracking. Introducing new Double-Tap gesture.
Pros
- Powerful S9 chipset
- Brighter AMOLED display
- Expanded Find My Phone feature
- Onboard Siri query processing
- Excellent WatchOS 10 updates
Cons
- Key features not available at launch
- Battery life still unimproved
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 series: The best Wear OS Fitbit alternatives
Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 series devices are the top Fitbit alternative for those in the market for a Wear OS watch. The lineup includes the base model Galaxy Watch 6 and the higher-end Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, featuring a rotating bezel. At their cores, the devices are largely identical.
Like Fitbit’s top smartwatches, the base model Galaxy Watch 6 is suited for sporty users. It offers plenty of features, including everything from health and activity tracking to smart notifications and customization, plus Google Assistant. Its performance is snappy, its app store is loaded, and Wear OS 4 brings plenty of refinement to the user experience. Users looking for a more traditional aesthetic may want to spend a little extra for the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic model.
On the other hand, some of the best features are reserved for Samsung phone users only.The Galaxy Watch 6 also does not offer a remarkable upgrade compared to its predecessor.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro
Up to 2 days battery life • Advanced sleep tracker • Fast Charging
MSRP: $449.99
Samsung's first adventure watch is a winner
Building on the Galaxy Watch 5's base with a much hardier body, Galaxy Watch 5 Pro also features multiple health and fitness tracking tools, a bigger battery, and a better navigation system. All these improvements make for a great all-round smartwatch whether you're in the boardroom or out on the trail.
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Pros
- Large display
- Wear OS 4
- Upgraded features
- Rotating bezel on Classic model
Cons
- Limited upgrades over Galaxy Watch 5
- Some features only work with Samsung phones
- Inconsistent heart rate data
Garmin Venu Sq 2: The best Fitbit Charge 6 alternative
Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
The Garmin Venu Sq 2, is our pick for the best Fitbit Charge 6alternative.The device offers a simple, lightweight build, impressive fitness features, and a decent price point. Sure, it doesn’t quite have the slim tracker aesthetic of the Charge line, but the smartwatch form factor is arguably more practical. Plus, the latest generation features a bright, beautiful AMOLED display. You can even get music storage for offline listening if you pay extra for the Venu Sq 2 Music edition (which we highly recommend).
The Garmin Venu Sq 2 may be one of Garmin’s most affordable devices, but it’s still a feature-packed wearable with a lot to like. In addition to an accurate GPS and improved heart rate sensor, the Venu Sq 2 offers some of the company’s top tools, including Body Battery and Health Snapshot. It also features reliable sleep tracking and a daily sleep score.
While reviewing the device, we were pleased to see the aesthetic upgrades to the Venu Sq line help elevate this watch to an everyday accessory. Plus, with great battery life, there isn’t much reason to take it off.
Garmin Venu Sq 2
Updated heart rate sensor • Data downloadable • Bright and colorful display
MSRP: $249.99
A brighter display meets newer sensors
The Venu Sq 2 smartwatch lands with a brighter display fitted to its now customary square body. It boasts an extensive array of health analysis, from Garmin's Body Battery to detailed sleep tracking. The data collected is downloadable, and it offers connective features with external captors.
Pros
- Bright, colorful AMOLED display
- Very impressive battery life
- Improved heart rate accuracy
- Accurate GPS
- Useful sleep tracking
- Handy Health Snapshot feature
Cons
- Pricier than its predecessor
- No altimeter
- Music storage costs extra
- Limited smartwatch features
- No audible alerts
Xiaomi Mi Band 8: The best Fitbit Inspire 3 or Luxe alternative
Xiaomi
Xiaomi’s fitness trackers have many features and a low price point, making the Mi Band 8the perfect Fitbit Inspire 3alternative. Paired with an upscale replacement band, the Mi Band 8 is also a fantastic Fitbit Luxe alternative. The device offers only a few upgrades but a much more refined look than its predecessor. The Mi Band 8 tracker pill offers a larger, higher-res screen that can be worn on the wrist, attached to a shoe, or around the neck as a pendant.
Beyond its build, the Mi Band 8 also boasts even more fitness tracking modes (150!), a six-axis motion sensor for workout tracking, and improvements to its heart rate readings.The device also offers impressive battery life but takes a hit when you turnon more advanced features. These features include an always-on display and continuous SpO2 monitoring, both of which are optional.
Unfortunately, you won’t find built-in GPS or NFC support on this Mi Band 8. If GPS is a priority, we recommend the Xiaomi Mi Band 7 Pro. The slightly pricier model adds a few key features and an expanded display.
Xiaomi Mi Band 8
Accurate health and fitness tracking • Affordable price point • Unique form factor
MSRP: $43.00
Once again, Xiaomi delivers a well-rounded fitness tracker at an approachable price.
The Xiaomi Mi Band 8 features an all-new strap design and the same vibrant touchscreen display found on the previous generation. On the wrist, as a necklace, or even attached to a running shoe, the device tracks key fitness stats and offers useful health monitoring tools to users eager to keep an eye on their wellness. It's a powerful, entry-level tracker at a great price.
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Garmin Forerunner 265: The best Garmin Fitbit Ionic alternative
Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
If budget isn’t a concern, Garmin’s Forerunner 265 brings much running power to the wrist. Not only does the device offer Garmin’s robust fitness tracking suite, but it also features a colorful AMOLED touchscreen display.
For a perfect fit, the lineup is available in two sizes, each with fiber-reinforced polymer, 5ATM water resistance ratings, and 8GB of music storage. For advanced training, the devices offer GNSS support with SatIQ technology and reliable health and fitness sensors.
During our Forerunner 265 review, we loved tapping into wrist-based Running-Power measurements and Training Readiness. The 265 isn’t the top Forerunner series, but for under $500, it representsGarmin’s mid-level entry point into the popular running watch lineup.
Garmin Forerunner 265
AMOLED display • Music storage • GPS • Health and fitness tracking
MSRP: $449.99
Night runs just got a whole lot brighter
Stepping up from its predecessor, the Garmin Forerunner 265 offers the same great features, with improvements to make it a reliable, lightweight running watch with an AMOLED display.
Pros
- Beautiful AMOLED touchscreen display
- Multiple sizes with music storage standard
- Accurate heart tracking
- Reliable GPS with SatIQ
- Training Readiness is great
Cons
- Limited hardware upgrades
- More expensive than the Forerunner 255
Google Pixel Watch 2: The best alternative to a conventional Fitbit
Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
In many ways, the Google Pixel Watch 2 istechnically a Fitbit, with key apps and features from the Fitbit ecosystem. It’s even sold on Fitbit’s website. However, the Pixel Watch 2 runs Google’s powerful Wear OS and offers tons more smartwatch features than your typical tracker.Regardless of how you categorize the device, it is certainly not a conventional pick from Fitbit’s stable.
For anyone who wants a combination of Fitbit and Wear OS features, the Google Pixel Watch 2 is your best option. The watch fixes some of the first-generation quirks of its predecessor, offering faster charging and upgraded health sensors. It also adds automatic workout detection and stress tracking. Meanwhile,Google’s toolbox still stars with baked-in Google Assistant, Google Maps, Google Wallet, and the Google Home app. For everything else, the Google Play Store provides easy access to third-party apps.
The device still isn’t perfect, and we wish Google would introduce a second, larger case size, but the Pixel Watch 2 is a very solid device offering a unique user experience. For a Fitbit device with unmatched smart features, it’s the best bet.
Google Pixel Watch 2
Runs a snappy Wear OS 4 • Added and upgraded advanced health sensors • Fast charging alleviates battery woes
MSRP: $349.99
Wear OS 4, advanced health sensors, and upgraded training features elevate the Pixel Watch 2
The Google Pixel Watch 2 retains the first model's successful features and refines several of the original's shortcomings. Added sensors, upgraded training tools, and a few key changes suggest a more finished product. Google's Wear OS 4 runs flawlessly, while advanced health tools from Fitbit join the lineup.
Pros
- Runs a snappy Wear OS 4
- Added and upgraded advanced health sensors
- Added training features and automatic workout detection
- Fast charging alleviates battery woes
- Safety Check and other safety features
Cons
- Only available in one size
- Some health features feel underbaked
- Fitbit app redesign oversimplifies
- Flaky GPS recording
- Setup isn’t seamless
FAQs
Fitbit offers a very user-friendly ecosystem great for tracking daily activity, basic health stats, and detailed sleep data. In general, casual usuals are more likely to gravitate towards Fitbit. Meanwhile, fitness enthusiasts interested in advanced features and detailed insights will find more depth in Garmin’s lineup.
At a glance, Fitbit focuses solely on activity and health data, while Apple offers a well-rounded companion device to users’ iPhones. Apple Watches are significantly better smartwatches and continue to beef up in terms of health and fitness tracking.
Fitbit Premium is the company’s subscription service that provides users with additional data, guided workouts, and personalized health and wellness insights. Fitbit Premium costs $9.99 a month. However, users can test-run the service with a free 90-day trial.
Fitbit’s Ace LTE is a great option for introducing young kids to fitness tracking, but it’s not the only option. Garmin’s Vivofit Jr 3 is highly customizable. Apple Watches (including the budget option Apple Watch SE) can be used in Family Setup mode for older kids. These are just two examples ofkid-friendly devices, but plenty more Fitbit alternatives for kids are available.
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