Fitbit Sense 2 Review: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

At IFA 2022, the consumer electronics trade show in Berlin, the new Fitbit Sense 2 was unveiled among other highlights. Now that it’s in stores, it’s time for a Fitbit Sense 2 review! This blog covers all the new features and specs of the Fitbit Sense 2.

Fitbit Sense 2 Review: Design

We start with the design, as the Fitbit Sense 2 is undeniably a stunning smartwatch. Fitbit has long stood out in the smartwatch market with its unique design, distinct from Apple Watch clones or large round clocks.

^{The new Sense 2 design with an improved side button.}

The Fitbit Sense 2 retains a similar design to the original Sense but with updates. The case is now smooth and rounded compared to the slightly angular predecessor. The side now features a proper button, replacing the poorly functioning ‘solid state’ button on the Sense, which looked good but never worked well.

This small button change might seem minor, but the original Sense’s button was so ineffective that many watches were returned. The ‘solid state’ button didn’t press and responded poorly, with limited functionality.

The new button works as expected, enhancing the watch’s usability without compromising its sleek look. The Fitbit Sense 2 remains available in only one size: 40mm.

Fitbit Sense 2 Review: Specifications

The design is beautiful and a key selling point for Fitbit, but this smartwatch does more than look good. The specs are impressive. As Fitbit’s flagship, the Sense 2 is packed with exciting features.

	Fitbit Sense 2 Specs
Size	40mm x 40mm x 12mm
Display	1.58 inch, Always-On
Resolution	336 x 336 pixels (299 ppi)
Bluetooth	✔️
GPS	✔️
Battery	6 days battery life, Fast Charging
Water Resistance	Yes (50m)
ECG (Heart Rhythm)	✔️
EDA Sensor	✔️

Fitbit Sense 2 Review: ‘The Stress Watch’ - The EDA Sensor

The Fitbit Sense 2 has earned the somewhat unfortunate nickname ‘the stress watch’ due to a key new feature: the EDA sensor. This sensor measures how your body handles stress.

The Fitbit Sense 2 is the first smartwatch ever with an electrodermal activity sensor. This feature is unique, unavailable even on the new Apple Watch Ultra priced at £999.00.

The EDA sensor lets you view your Daily Stress Management Score in the Fitbit app. With Fitbit Premium, you can analyse stress sources and improve, such as by sleeping better or exercising more.

This is an underrated and unique feature for a smartwatch, putting the Sense 2 in the spotlight compared to premium Apple Watches, Samsung, or Garmin sports watches.

Fitbit Sense 2 Review: Battery

Another standout feature is the impressive battery life of the Fitbit Sense 2. Fitbit promises an average of 6 days, a remarkable feat for a watch of this size with so many features.

Batteries don’t last forever, but the Sense 2 excels here too. With fast charging, you can charge it in just 10 minutes.

This again sidelines the competitors. It’s nice that the Apple Watch tracks sleep, but if it needs charging every night, the Fitbit Sense 2’s 6-day endurance is preferable.

Fitbit Sense 2 Review: Features & Sensors

Tracking health data is key for a smartwatch. The Fitbit Sense 2 offers a robust set of sensors and software for this.

Fitbit takes a holistic approach, combining sports, recovery, stress levels, and sleep tracking. Everything is interconnected. Sleep tracking performs exceptionally well on the Sense 2, and with Premium, you can monitor your sleep patterns and identify improvements.

The ECG lets you take heart rhythm recordings to detect or monitor heart issues. While not as precise as a hospital test, it’s a valuable sensor.

Fitbit Sense 2 Review: Display

The display seems unchanged at first, but Fitbit has significantly improved touchscreen responsiveness. This might be the biggest upgrade if switching from Sense to Sense 2.

The previous Fitbit generation’s touchscreen was frustrating—sometimes slow, often requiring multiple taps. The Sense 2 has no such issues; its display feels fast and responsive.

The display is vibrant and bright, ideal for outdoor sports. With this responsiveness, the Fitbit Sense 2’s display ranks alongside the Apple Watch 8.

Fitbit Sense 2 Review: Fitbit Premium…

The Fitbit Sense 2 sounds like an amazing smartwatch—and it is! But there’s a catch. You may have noticed mentions of Fitbit Premium: many features are behind a paywall.

To unlock the full potential, you’ll need a premium subscription. This monthly or yearly plan offers additional health and activity insights.

The subscription is optional, but it feels like Fitbit could have included these features for free. The first 90 days are free, though.

Is Fitbit Premium worth it? It depends on your usage. It’s not essential for basic use, but if you want the most from the Sense 2, it’s your only option.

Fitbit Sense 2 Review: Price

The Fitbit Sense is Fitbit’s flagship, priced competitively with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 and cheaper than the Apple Watch 8.

• Fitbit Sense 2 Price: From £299.00
• Fitbit Premium: £8.99 per month
• Fitbit Premium: £79.99 per year (£6.67 per month)

Considering Fitbit Premium? Factor it into your comparison with other smartwatches.

Conclusion

The new Fitbit Sense 2 offers significant improvements over the previous generation. The side button upgrade enhances usability, and the touchscreen is now flawless—unlike the original Sense.

With a 6-day battery life and numerous features, it’s ideal for daily routines, such as tracking sleep and activity. Comparatively, the Apple Watch 8 lasts 18 hours.

The paywall of Fitbit Premium is the main drawback. At £8.99 monthly or £79.99 yearly, it’s a steep price to unlock all features of a £299.99 watch.

Convinced by the Fitbit Sense 2? Check out our straps for the Sense 2 to enhance this stunning smartwatch!

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Fitbit Sense 2 released?
The release date for the Fitbit Sense 2 is 19 September 2022. You can order it from this date. Read the Fitbit Sense 2 review on Smartwatch-straps.co.uk before purchasing!

Can I use the Fitbit Sense 2 without a phone?
The Fitbit Sense 2 has built-in GPS, so you can exercise without your phone. With Fitbit Pay, you can pay on the go too. However, calling is only possible via Wi-Fi, as it lacks mobile data.

What is the price of the Fitbit Sense 2?
The Fitbit Sense 2 is available from £299.00. Fitbit Premium costs £8.99 monthly (optional) or £79.99 annually.