Surge gps way off, what about other data?

[DenverGator]

I'm New to Surge and doing a two week evaluation of this thing. Couple things I've noticed in my first 3 days....

1. The GPS is semi-accurate sometimes and way off other times. I did a simple out and back walk in open road and the result was .40 miles out (accurate when mapped with other calibrated gps) and .20 miles back.
(Please note: GPS is locked prior to starting workout, walking in open area, and you can tell it's not losing signal because the map of my route is on point).

2. The above inaccuracies in the GPS have me questioning the validity of other data that is important to the purpose of purchasing a $250 fitness watch. Are steps and calories accurate?). My wife and I both purchased these and the disparities in data is unreal. We took the same walk this morning and hers said 1.35 miles and mine said 2.25 miles.

3. In reading the forums here, concerns about the wristband quality as well are not building my confidence in this watch. I'm curious if this is being addressed and how soon?

Maybe we should return these and wait for a new release of the Surge or go to another brand? Many players in this market....

Please share any similar findings or experiences.

Thanks!
PH

[SunsetRunner]

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@DenverGator wrote:

2. The above inaccuracies in the GPS have me questioning the validity of other data that is important to the purpose of purchasing a $250 fitness watch. Are steps and calories accurate?). My wife and I both purchased these and the disparities in data is unreal. We took the same walk this morning and hers said 1.35 miles and mine said 2.25 miles.

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with or without GPS ?

with, seems impossible.

without, change the stride length in your profile.

[DenverGator]

With gps on one, without gps on the other. Regardless, the data should not be that different. With such inaccurate data I might as well spend $250 on anything else and just guess how long I run for, how fast my heart is beating and how many cals I think I burned today!

And Based on what I have read on this community and other reviews online, I will be returning the surge before I regret it.

[SunsetRunner]

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@DenverGator wrote:
With gps on one, without gps on the other. Regardless, the data should not be that different. 

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without gps, they can

assuming you're a little longer your wife, your stride length is also longer, if you set it, and you do less steps

your wife : 10 000 steps * 0.50 cm = 5 000 m

you : 8 000 steps * 0.60 cm = 4 800 m

other differences : is the Surge on dominant hand ? not ? same matter to move the arm ?

[CindyFitbit]

Hey there @DenverGator welcome aboard! I completely understand your point, but it's worth to say that at least two dozen GPS satellites are constantly in orbit around the Earth and broadcasting data. All GPS devices, whether your phone or a Fitbit Surge, require a direct path to these satellites in order to receive their radio transmissions. If the signal is being blocked—either because you're underground, near many tall buildings, or as a result of atmospheric effects—GPS will not work. Thus, 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. If you're running with your Surge and the GPS signal is lost, rest assured Surge will continually search for a GPS signal as long as the exercise is in progress.

Additionally, take in consideration that it's normal that you see a difference on data when comparing with another person, that's because Fitbit trackers provide personalized data, calculating it based on personal information like age, gender, height and weight (steps, calories, distance). 

Also, as @SunsetRunner kindly mentioned you can improve your distance calculation by entering your stride lenght on your device settings page, please check @SteveH's post.

Last but not least, Fitbit trackers are designed for daily use, in order to keep your Surge in good conditions, make sure of following our wear and care guide. 

Many thanks for your help here @SunsetRunner! 

Let me know if you have any other concern!