Hi all,
I started with a fitbit charge HR back in early 2016 and so far have been really happy with it (certainly the fitbit app is fantastic). I also bought the Alta, and have been very satisfied with the integration of those devices as well. At this point, I'm where I want to be weight-wise, and am focused more on upping my running mileage and improving pace/performance, etc. But of course I still want to use the Alta&fitbit dashboard/app, as it keeps me on track (frankly, this is the main reason I'm reluctant to go with the Apple Watch, which otherwise would be a super attractive option for me).
Most of my runs are done on the treadmill, because I have an amazing fitness center at work that I visit every morning during the week and just get ready there. I'm sticking to this routine as it's convenient for a number of reasons. I do, however, want to start adding more outdoor long runs on the weekend, which is why I'm looking for a device with GPS. I understand that the Blaze has GPS, but it's dependent on your phone, whereas the Surge's GPS doesn't require you to carry the phone on runs. Both have the ability to control music on the device, which I love b/c I hate having to futz around with itunes on my awkwardly placed phone while running.
With the Surge - wouldn't you still have to bring your phone if you want music during your run? Or can you import your running playlists from itunes directly onto the device? I can't run without music, so if that's the only thing seperating these two, the independent GPS thing may not be that big a deal. I'm also slightly concerned about the complaints on this forum about the Surge's band issues... if they crack/buckle/break, but you have to replace the whole device, that seems like an $$ problem.
Any thoughts on HR accuracy between these two? I feel like my Charge HR is pretty accurate while running/walking, but is really lacking when I'm lifting weights/strength training (more than half the time, it won't even read my HR while weightlifting, and when it does, I believe it underestimates my HR as I push it pretty hard/fast). If either of these devices does a better job here, that'd be a big plus for me.
Sorry for the crazy long post!! I may post this on the Blaze forum as well for their take.
Thanks 🙂
Kelly
