The fitness tracker world is crowded, and researching the best model is now a major task. If you're not looking to spend a ton of money, Google has a new Fitbit that might be perfect.
The Fitbit Edge feels rightfully placed between the minimalist Fitbit Air and the Pixel Watch 5. Not only does the $179.99 price fit in the middle of the two, but its functions land somewhere in the middle. It adds elements missing on the Fitbit Air like onboard GPS and an altimeter. But it lacks features you’ll find on the Pixel Watch 5, like Google Wallet for contactless payments.
I’ve been wearing the Fitbit Edge for the last few weeks, testing out its comfort and functions. While it has tons of features that will be great for some people, I’m still more excited about the Fitbit Air compared to the Edge.
Functions on the Fitbit Edge are great for all levels of fitness
Google has gone back to a screen with the Fitbit Edge after giving us the faceless Fitbit Air. The Edge’s display is still quite small when compared to most Garmins or an Apple Watch, but it packs in features.
The Google Health Coach is one of my favorite aspects about the Fitbit lineup. It takes just a few minutes to come up with a detailed fitness plan. The “coach” checks in, but not in a badgering way. Instead, I find the reminders helpful to get a snapshot of what type of movement would be best based on other metrics like sleep and heart rate.
Nutrition tracking is also a main feature with Google’s Fitbit platform. You can scan barcodes into the app or even take photos of food to enter it into your daily intake.
What I like about the Fitbit Edge
Function aside, I like the looks of the Fitbit Edge. It’s simple, sleek, and doesn’t look massive on my wrist. Google ships the Edge with a silicone Active Band in two sizes. I’ve found this to be the most comfortable option from the few I’ve tested.
I also like the Magnet Band, but I found it fiddly to get the right fit. For a fancier look, the Metal Links Band looks snazzy. The $149.99 price, however, is kind of scary considering the Edge itself doesn’t cost much more. I haven’t tested it, but I suspect my favorite band would be the Performance Loop Band since that’s my preferred option on the Fitbit Air. But the point stands that Google has plentiful options for bands that make the tracker feel more customized to your liking.
Like the Fitbit Air, the Edge is beyond impressive when it comes to battery life. I’ve been getting about a week of wear before I need to recharge. When it does need a recharge, it takes less than 90 minutes to top out at 100 percent. I also found Google’s claim to be true that a five-minute recharge earns you about a day of battery life.
Compare that to the Apple Watch 11, which Mashable Senior Editor Stan Schroeder found to get about 24 hours on one charge when testing, and there’s a clear winner. If you value long battery life, you’re better off with the Fitbit Edge.
On top of the battery life, Google has made the Edge with a replaceable battery, a first for the brand. Should the battery crap out in a handful of years, pop a new one in, and you’ll be back to new.
Comfort earns big points, but the Air wins
Up until the Fitbit Edge arrived on my doorstep, I had been wearing the Fitbit Air for over four months almost 24/7. The Air remains the most comfortable fitness tracker I’ve ever worn. I wouldn't consider the Edge to be uncomfortable, but it doesn’t go unnoticed on the wrist like the Air. After a week or so, I got more accustomed to the feel of the Edge and noticed it less often, but it doesn’t disappear like the Air does.
Pair this slightly less comfortable fit with the new Fitbit Air Metal Mesh Band that I love, and I’m still more excited about the Air compared to the Edge. I should mention I have petite wrists, so your comfort with the Edge will vary.
Fitbit Edge: Who it’s for
The Fitbit Edge is perfect for those who want an uncomplicated fitness tracker that doesn’t come with a shocking price tag. It has great fitness tracking metrics and impressive sleep monitoring. It’s also pretty comfortable on the wrist, and the week-long battery life is a major benefit.
If you’re looking for something without a watch face or you want to barely notice you’re wearing a fitness tracker, I think the Fitbit Air is a better option. However, if you want a watch face to glance at the time or you like to track stairs climbed, you’ll want the Fitbit Edge. On the flip side, if you’re looking for a fully functional smartwatch and fitness tracker in one device, I think the Pixel Watch 5 wins over the Fitbit Edge.