Inspire 3 vs Charge 3 sleep tracking

[manuelortizus]

Hi community, I'm taking a baby step in tracking my sleep because I want to improve it. The price of those devices fits my budget. What are your experiences on tracking sleep with these devices? Based on your sleep tracking results, which one would you recommend to me?

Would you recommend any other devices with similar prices but better sleep tracking accuracy?

Moderator Edit: Clarified subject

[Talahthas]

Welcome to the Fitbit community, @manuelortizus!

I only can tell from my experiences with my Charge 5 in this comparison, but I tend to believe they'll be the same with all current Fitbit models as my Versa 4 works the same.
If you set up a sleep schedule you'll get pretty accurate results.
Here's more about sleep tracking with Fitbit:

How can I use my Fitbit device to sleep better? 

How do I track my sleep with my Fitbit device? 

What should I know about Fitbit sleep stages? 

If you do have any more questions, do not hesitate to come back.

[RiekoC]

Hi & welcome @manuelortizus 

When I was considering getting a health tracker, my research included watching evaluation videos on The Quantified Scientist YouTube channel. He conducts tests on wearable devices comparing the results to equipment with known high accuracy. Based on his evaluations and personal requirements, I choose the Charge 5. Although it has its quirky moments, I've been satisfied with my Charge 5.

The Quantified Scientist has done evaluations on both the Inspire 3 and the Charge 5. You might want to check those out to help you make a decision. 

[manuelortizus]

Thanks for answering me @Talahthas. When I'm considering the Fitbit 5, I'm concerned about the battery life due to some user problems I've read about. What's your take on this? How long have you been wearing it? Are there any specific versions that have this problem?

[manuelortizus]

Thank you for taking the time to reply. @RiekoC. I've been watching those videos, including Fitbit Charge 5: Scientific Sleep Test!, Fitbit Charge 5: Complete Scientific Review, Fitbit Inspire 3 : Full Scientific Review Based on the data presented in the videos, it seems that the Inspire 3 is more accurate in tracking sleep, as shown in the image.

Sometimes, I consider choosing the Charge 5 because of its additional features in heart tracking. However, I have some concerns about the battery life based on user problems I've read about. What has been your experience with the battery life of the Charge 5? How long have you been wearing it? Are there any specific versions that have this problem?

[Talahthas]

You're welcome, @manuelortizus. I've worn my Charge 5 for 8 months before switching to the Versa 4. My mom is still wearing hers since February 2022 without any hassels. Friends I had recommended Charge 5 also are using theirs without any issues.
It's worth thinking about some things before making a purchase decision. Forums like this one most often are to be considered hospitals. There's no one reporting how flawlessly her/his device is working but only those who are seeking help because their's don't. But, not knowing how many devices are sold, it says next to nothing about how good or bad a device is in general just judging on how many complaints are on the forums.
Also there are two main rules to extend battery life of Lithium batteries: Do not run them completely down in general. And avoid charging them to 100 percent all the time. Best is to keep them between 15 and 85 percent to avoid too much heat while charging and getting maximum battery life out of them. This goes for every device by every manufacturer.

I'd go with the Charge 5 any time for it's small form factor and the functions it offers, especially the 1-phase ECG.

[RiekoC]

You're welcome @manuelortizus . I'm glad you're finding the videos helpful. 

My research included several websites that had selected the Charge 5 as the best or one of the best health trackers that's not a smartwatch. I decided that I didn't want or need a smartwatch, especially since most need to be charged almost daily. 

I like the features of the Charge 5, its screen size, and data that I can see at a glance. It was also on sale at the time due to Prime day competitive pricing. The battery on my Charge 5 lasts 6-7 days. I did have to get a replacement tracker/pebble when I experienced the non-responsive screen around 6 months. So far, the replacement is working great. 

As @Talahthas noted, although you see & read multiple reported issues in the community help forums, we don't have any insight to the actual failure rate. For example, if there were a million units sold and 10,000 of them experience issues, that's only 1% failure rate. The other 990,000 units are functioning normally. 

You might want to look at both the Inspire 3 and Charge 5 in person to help you with your decision. Sometimes seeing the actual product helps me decide on which to choose. 

We look forward to hearing which device you chose.