Charge 3 Broke/Customer Service Rant

[LJHeronHBFS]

I purchased a Charge 3 back in January, which developed a fault (battery drained quickly, rapid vibrations, stopped reading HR) in February and was replaced by Fitbit in March.

The replacement is now going through similar issues. The battery goes from 100% to "battery low" in minutes. HR readings were non-existant but now give wild results against actual and alternate date (example: sat on sofa - Pulse taken = 50, non-Fitbit device = 55, Fitbit = 100+). I had rapid vibrations the other day and random screen interactions, despite nobody touching the device> I provided a video of this happening.

I have logged a case and I'm awaiting a response after 4 workings day but realise the reason for the delay.

I have also spoken to the Twitter team and received a "many factors can affect HR/battery life" response. This is where some of my frustration lies. They know my sync data and will be able to see my issues but just give standard responses.

More frustration lies in the quality of the device. In four months, this is the second Charge 3 device that has developed a major fault. The connected GPS has been suspect for me throughout also (records 80-90% of actual distances run).

I am not the only person who will have had similar issues, which calls into question the quality of the device build. I only run, do band workouts and go to the gym (pre-lockdown, of course). I don't swim or even wear the device in the shower, despite the water resistance and not wanting to chance damage via water ingress. Surely these devices should be more resolute.

Sorry for the rant post. It is good to get these issues off my chest and get a take from others.

Thanks for reading

[LJHeronHBFS]

An update to this: Fitbit have offered another replacement. They also offered a 50% discount against a new device, although the discount is invalid against the Ace devices or the Charge 4, which I may have bought. I have chosen to get a replacement.

While all this has gone off, I have purchased a Garmin Vivoactive, which I am enjoying. It has a lot of the same information as a Charge 3 but also has built-in GPS, which is accurate, monitors run cadence, works better with Strava and has a rep counter for strength workouts.

When I get my replacement, I may sell it on or give it to my son, who is using an Inspire but would like HR data. The hassle I have had in four months alone does not justify using it as my main fitness device.