Why we like it: The Fitbit Charge 6 tells you everything you need to know about your activity, whether you’re exercising or resting: heart rate, steps, distance, calories burned, time spent in target heart zones, VO2 max, sleep score, blood oxygen, skin temperature, stress management score and more.
It supports over 40 exercise modes, including strength training, yoga, cycling and running. Thanks to its SmartTrack feature, it should automatically recognize your exercise and record it in the Fitbit app.
Exercise aside, you also have access to Google Maps, Google Wallet, notifications for calls, texts and smartphone apps, Find My Phone, blood glucose tracking in the app, a smart wake alarm, menstrual health tracking and do not disturb and sleep modes.
Who it’s best for: The Fitbit Charge 6 is ideal for anyone who wants a fitness tracker that primarily functions as just that, allowing you to view your stats right on your wrist, as well as with the free Fitbit app. With its SmartTrack feature, you also don’t have to worry about manually recording your workouts.
If you’re a runner, the Charge 6’s built-in GPS allows you to see pace and distance, so no need to check your phone. You can use YouTube Music to listen to your favorite tunes on the go, but a YouTube Music Premium subscription is required for this feature. Offline music isn’t supported. Check your phone after, and you can see a workout intensity map showing where you put in the most effort on your route.
On Charge 6-compatible workout machines, you can connect your Fitbit to see your heart rate on the equipment as you exercise. And if you decide to hop in the pool after, you’re covered down to 50 meters.
With Fitbit Premium, you get access to a full library of workouts, detailed sleep and stress score breakdowns, a full library of mindfulness sessions and a curated list of recipes, but it does cost $10 per month or $80 per year.
Who shouldn’t buy it: If you want your fitness tracker to have more Apple or Android apps, like those on your smartphone -- for sending messages, making calls and responding to emails, for instance -- you’re better off getting a brand-specific smartwatch that has your favorite apps right on it. Serious runners might also want a watch specifically designed for running.
– Anna Gragert, wellness editor