Fitbit Charge 3 vs Fitbit Charge 4 – Complete Comparison

Design & Weight

The Fitbit Charge 3 was a design success, so the Charge 4 keeps the same sleek look. The real difference is in the weight, the Charge 3 weighs 51 grams, while the Charge 4 is almost half that at 26 grams. This makes the Charge 4 far more comfortable, especially when worn at night or during daily activities. Both models do not feature an always-on display.

GPS Receiver

The Charge 3 relies on your smartphone’s GPS for tracking distance, speed, and routes during outdoor workouts, which means your phone battery drains faster and you must carry it with you. In contrast, the Charge 4 has a built-in GPS, allowing you to track your workouts without a phone. This long-awaited upgrade means you can leave your smartphone at home while still capturing accurate performance data.

Heart Rate Zones

While the Charge 3 tracks your steps, workouts, and stairs climbed, it does not record which heart rate zone you are in. This makes it harder to optimize training for specific goals, such as fat burning in zone 2. The Charge 4 solves this by tracking your Active Zone Minutes and heart rate zones, giving you precise feedback on workout intensity and duration, helping you meet WHO’s activity recommendations.

Sleep Mode

The Charge 3 monitors sleep but still allows notifications and screen wake-ups during the night, which can be disruptive. The Charge 4 features a sleep mode that silences notifications and keeps the screen dark, ensuring uninterrupted rest while still tracking your sleep quality.

Contactless Payments

Fitbit Pay is available only on the Special Edition of the Charge 3 and requires both compatible hardware and bank support. The Charge 4 includes Fitbit Pay in all versions, making it easy to make secure, contactless payments without your wallet, provided your bank supports the service.

Pros & Cons

Fitbit Charge 3

• ✔️ Weekly performance summary via email
• ✔️ Wrist-based heart rate monitoring
• ✔️ Notifications displayed on the screen
• ✔️ Contactless payments only on Special Edition
• ❌ Requires smartphone for GPS tracking
• ❌ No always-on display

Fitbit Charge 4

• ✔️ Built-in GPS – no phone needed for outdoor workouts
• ✔️ Contactless payments with Fitbit Pay
• ✔️ Tracks workout intensity and heart rate zones
• ✔️ Weekly performance summary via email
• ❌ No always-on display

Conclusion – Which Should You Choose?

While both models share a similar design, the Fitbit Charge 4 offers significant upgrades, including built-in GPS, full Fitbit Pay support, Active Zone Minutes tracking, and a lighter, more comfortable fit. These improvements make it the clear winner for anyone serious about fitness tracking and convenience. If you want the best experience, the Charge 4 is worth the upgrade.

Looking to style your Fitbit? Explore our full range of Fitbit Charge 3 bands and Fitbit Charge 4 straps to give your device a fresh new look.