GPS distance between Versa and Runkeeper not the same

[Derekv]

I run and connect my versa to my Runkeeper app on my phone. Even when connected my versa is consistently reporting a slower pace and shorter distance than Runkeeper. By the end of a 8 mm run my versa will display a pace that is at least 4 seconds per km slower than Runkeeper and between 200 and 300 meters shorter. Any idea why or how this could be corrected? Is there any calibration that can be done? J don't understand why the large differences when they are using the same GPS.

Moderator edit: Subject for clarity 

[HeydyF]

Hey @Derekv, let me give you a warm welcome to the Community! You are totally right when you say that both use the same GPS technology, however, the Versa itself doesn't use the same algorithms as those that Runkeeper uses, so the little variation comes from there. However, you can always try to restart your Versa to calibrate it. Just follow these instructions to do so. If for some reason, the inaccuracies increase, then I suggest you to take a look at this help article and follow the troubleshooting stated there. 

Let me know how it goes! 

[Derekv]

Here is an example of the differences between Runkeeper and Fitbit Versa while connected to my Android phones GPS. For some reason the first kilometer has the biggest variance. Any idea why?

[WalkieswithUno]

Any ideas why runkeeper changes the times of the run as well? 

[Rianne88]

Hi Derekv,

any progress on adjusting this? I am having exactly the same issue with my Fitbit Versa and Runkeeper... and can’t seem to adjust whatever I do with restarting, GPS on, WiFi off etc

[Derekv]

I have seen some improvement and the only thing I have changed is the timing of when I start each device (start Runkeeper first). I still see a variance but they are much smaller now, both in pace and distance. I did not do anything other than adjust my stride length measurement in my profile however I do t think that makes a difference unless you are running without the GPS but I am not sure about that.

[JessCBee]

Just a quick question, how do you track: do you start tracking on the runkeeper app & then start tracking on the versa on your wrist? What order/method do you use?

[Derekv]

I start Runkeeper first then as I start running I start my Fitbit. Obviously I have my Fitbit connected to my phone first (enable GPS).

[Derekv]

I start Runkeeper first then as I start running I start my Fitbit. Obviously I have my Fitbit connected to my phone first by enabling the GPS.