Which fitbit device should I specifically buy?

[scrappyjackie]

I have a Fitbit Flex, and recently an Aria scale, and started pretty basically just happy to track my steps, sleep and occasionally log my food.  During the past two months I have been on a pretty strict medically-supervised diet protocol (Ideal Protein) and have lost 25lb with about another 23 to go.  As I am in ketosis I have been advised to keep exercise to a minimum at this time.  I cannot even track my food intake because it is only about 850 calories but as soon as I phase off into maintenance and the  "the real world" I want to use Fitbit to the max.  So, my question is WHICH devise is going to be best for me - I do like the idea of "move-reminders", will probably want something with heart rate, but would also like the least 'clunky' piece out there.  So, would love some of you learned folk to weigh in with me here and give me some good advice.

[Dominique]

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@scrappyjackie wrote:

I do like the idea of "move-reminders", will probably want something with heart rate, but would also like the least 'clunky' piece out there.

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Unfortunately, you cannot currently get both "reminders to move" and HR monitoring. The only Fitbit that has the "reminder to move" functionality is the Alta (but it doesn’t do HR), while three other models have HR (Charge HR, Surge, Blaze).

The Surge may qualify as "clunky" in your books: it is significantly thicker than the other two, and also has a weird shape (wedge-like). I find it a bit cumbersome when I need to wear it with formal shirts with long sleeves (fortunately for me, this doesn’t happen very often).

This would leave the Charge HR and the Blaze. Charge HR is more similar to your current Flex. Blaze is more like a "smartwatch", with fancy colour display (unfortunately off most of the time, unless you specifically turn it on) and connectivity with your smartphone. It’s also pricier.

[scrappyjackie]

thanks for your input - I have a while before I need to switch so perhaps 'they' will come up with the combo I am lookin for by then.

[JohnRi]

While I don't own a Charge HR, after reading all of the complaints against the bands, I don't recommend it.  However if you do get it or any Fitbit for that matter, get it at Best Buy, Amazon, Cost Co, etc. and purchase the 2 year extended warrany for $20.  With most of the Fitbits, you will might/probably need the warranty.

The Charge HR is smaller, and less bulky.  But has lots of issues with syncing, and band issues.  There are many happy Charge HR users, but they seem to be the ones complaining on the message board about the most issues.

The Blaze, my favorite for day to day wear would probably be the one I suggest.  It has easy to replace bands, and a more solid design overall.  I find the leather band option extremely comfortable.  My only issue with the Blaze is for many users, the connected GPS isn't very accurate.  It really depends on your cell phone. 

The Surge is overall the best fitness tracker, GPS tracking is 99-101% accurate.  However it has issues with the band breaking, and once your warranty is up...  Plus the Surge is bulky.  I wear the Surge only when I exercise.  I do lots of walking and biking, and I need my GPS and pace times to be accurate.

Given what you need I'd go with the Blaze or the Charge HR. 

[USAF-Larry]

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@JohnRi wrote:

While I don't own a Charge HR, after reading all of the complaints against the bands, I don't recommend it.  However if you do get it or any Fitbit for that matter, get it at Best Buy, Amazon, Cost Co, etc. and purchase the 2 year extended warrany for $20.  With most of the Fitbits, you will might/probably need the warranty.

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FWIW, Sam's Club sells the Charge HR bundled with an extra charging cable, and offers a 3-year extended warranty for just under $15. That is a good buy, if you are a member of Sam's Club.

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@JohnRi wrote:

Given what you need I'd go with the Blaze or the Charge HR. 

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I have the Charge HR, and I love it. It is small, easy to use, and gives me the HR monitoring that I want.   I am thinking about "upgrading" to the Blaze, though.

[Mukluk4]

Are you doing any activities where heart rate monitoring would be a factor?

If not, I'd stick with what you got.

[emili]

I have the HR. I set alarms to go off at hourly intervals through out the day to remind me to move. It also wakes me up in the morning. I love it. And it doesn't feel big or get in the way. I wear it all the time- literally except when showering. If you decide to get it, I would go to an authorized retailer to purchase. If anything happens its an easier exchange.