Surge distance accuracy - GPS vs Step count

[Quacker700]

When I go out running with my surge, it always shows that the distance I have covered is less than monitored by runtastic on my phone which I do feel is very accurate. The map displaying my route is always correct. Does the fitbit use gps to calculate distance travelled or does it do it by how many steps I have taken during an exercise? any tips please

Martin 

Moderator edit: Clarified subject.

[YojanaFitbit]

Thanks for popping by the forums @Quacker700! That's a really good question. If fact, your Surge uses both, but when it is using GPS stats the information is more accurate. You can open up the map to get more details about it. Just remember to check the start time and end time, since once in a while the satellite takes a moment to connect with your Surge. Read some tips about it this post. 

Whereas GPS gives you a more accurate measure of distance than step counting alone, the actual accuracy depends on both your environment and the weather. You can read more information about accuracy in this help article.

Now, when you're not using the GPS on your Surge, it takes the distance taking in count your steps and your stride length information. You can edit this information if you wish, you will find instructions in this master post. 

Please note that comparing trackers with other devices won't give you the same readings, since they work in a different way. 

Let me know if you have any other question! 

[Korbin66]

My fitbit surge doesn't have the gear icon on the top right hand part of the dashboard screen.

[YojanaFitbit]

Hey there @Korbin66! Thanks for getting back. You will find the gear icon in the Fitbit.com Dashboard on the computer or in the browser on your phone.

Hope this helps! 

[Korbin66]

No such item on my screen.  I looked on your example and my dashboard lacks the gear symbol.

[YojanaFitbit]

Hi @Korbin66! Thanks for replying. Sorry about the misunderstanding. 

You will find a gear icon in the Fitbit.com Dashboard on the website. If you're using a Windows 10 computer, the settings will be located in the Fitbit App under Account > Advance Settings.

 Keep me posted with the outcome!