Best Fitbit Models for Beginners, Athletes, and Kids (2026)
The fitness trackers I'd recommend to beginners, athletes, and kids.
Full article excerpt tap to expand
Boutayna Chokrane GearApr 23, 2026 7:00 AMThe Best Fitbit Depends on Your Goals. Here's How to ChooseThese are my favorites, whether you're new to fitness, an athlete, or a parent shopping for your kid.Courtesy of FitbitCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyIt’s been five years since Google officially acquired Fitbit for a reported $2.1 billion, grabbing hardware and software teams that also absorbed assets from Pebble, which Fitbit itself acquired in 2016. So, how have things changed? Well, for starters, Fitbit is now Google Fitbit. It’s not the most imaginative of name changes, and it hasn't stuck in consumers’ minds, but the good news is that Fitbit devices remain some of the most user-friendly and welcoming fitness trackers available. This is especially true if you're just starting, or reigniting, your fitness journey.Fitbit’s dominance has waned slightly in the face of countless alternatives, but its affordable approach, user-friendly interface, and great styling make it one of the best wearable fitness brands. If you’re looking for a reliable step-counting, sleep-tracking monitor, you’re in for a treat—and thanks to Google’s stewardship, you can now even find a smartwatch with features to rival the competition. Here are my picks of the best Fitbit trackers, whatever your wearable needs are.For more wearable recommendations, check out our guides to the Best Fitness Trackers, Best Smart Rings, and Best Garmin Watches.Featured In This GuideBest Fitbit OverallFitbit Charge 6Jump to review$160 Google StoreMost Affordable FitbitFitbit Inspire 3Jump to review$100 Google StoreBest Fitbit for KidsFitbit Ace LTEJump to review$180 $100 (44% off) Google StoreBest Fitbit SmartwatchFitbit Versa 4Jump to review$200 Google StoreJump toAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronCompare Top 5 FitbitsFrequently Asked QuestionsBest Fitbit OverallCourtesy of FitbitSave to wishlistSave to wishlistFitbitCharge 6$160 Google Store$160 $120 (25% off) Amazon$160 Best BuyLaunched in 2023, the Charge 6 remains the best fitness tracker for most people. It's the same slim build as its predecessor (the Charge 5), maintaining the bright AMOLED touchscreen, with an optional always-on display, and fortunately bringing back the physical side button. It monitors your heart rate, blood oxygen, and skin temperature, and it offers ECG and electrodermal activity scans to measure irregular heart rhythms and stress level insights. The largest upgrade on the functionality front is the new ability to connect Fitbit's heart rate sensor to particular gym equipment like the NordicTrack treadmill or Peloton bike. In testing, its heart rate sensors held up well against the Oura ring. Battery life is also fantastic, with up to a week per charge.The built-in GPS support doesn't rival dedicated sports watches for accuracy, but it's useful enough for outdoor activities. Plus, unlike those wearables, Fitbit dishes out detailed sleep data that is both insightful and actionable. Google’s presence has increased on the Charge with the useful additions of Google Maps and Google Wallet. You get all of this and more for less than the cost of Fitbit's smartwatches.SpecsCase Size36.73 x 23.09 x 11.20 mmCase MaterialAluminumBattery LifeUp to 7 daysColorsCoral/Champagne Gold Aluminum, Porcelain/Silver Aluminum, Obsidian/Black AluminumMost Affordable FitbitCourtesy of FitbitSave to wishlistSave to wishlistFitbitInspire 3$100 Google Store$100 $80 (20% off)…
This excerpt is published under fair use for community discussion. Read the full article at WIRED.