Is it time to leave Fitbit behind?

[zjc10-0]

This might not be exactly the right place to ask this question, but I don’t think I’d realised how bad it had gotten over at Fitbit.
I’ve been merrily using a Charge 4 for several years until this week when the screen failed. Initially, this seemed like a good opportunity to upgrade. But the more I look, the more disappointed I am with the options available.

The Charge 6 doesn’t have an altimetre, nor does the Versa 4. This seems like a basic requirement in a fitness tracker to me. Both are also missing other features I enjoy on the Charge 4 making them seem like a downgrade. Instead focusing on the (readiness score) which as far as I can tell will be irrelevant to me as I’m not a premium member.

Which leaves the Sense 2... And given everything I can see in this forum, doesn't leave me wowed. Lacking 3rd party apps, how ‘smart’ is the Sense 2 for the price? Does it meet your expectations of a smartwatch? Does it compare favourably, in your mind, to the Charge 4?

Do I risk sticking with the Charge 4 (it tracks fine, just has no display) and seeing what comes next?

Or is it time to leave Fitbit behind?

[LZeeW]

@zjc10-0   I'm not sure where you read about the Versa 4 and the altimeter.  The Versa 4 definitely has the altimeter, if this helps you.  I don't have a straightforward answer for you.  It's true that the Versa 4 doesn't allow third party apps, making the Versa 4 not as smart as previous Versa models.  Your Charge 4 doesn't allow third party apps, either.  What apps would you want in your smartwatch?

Fitbit is always very hush hush about future plans.  The Versa 4/Sense 2 were released in 2022 and Fitbit tends to release new models every two years.  I haven't read any rumors about a Versa 5/Sense 3 this fall.

I don't know where you are located.  It might take some searching on your part, but some Authorized Retailers might have a Versa 3 still in stock.  It might give you a chance to see what apps are important to you.  But Google recently removed all third party apps and clock faces from the EEA and UK.  A possible deal breaker.  It is a discontinued device, so the battery isn't as fresh as a new device.  Authorized retailers honor Fitbit's warranty.  Do not buy from Amazon or any other marketplace site.  The Fitbits are all from third party sellers and there is no Fitbit warranty.