The Fitbit Charge HR is a popular fitness tracker that has been a favorite among fitness enthusiasts and casual users alike. With its sleek design, user-friendly interface, and advanced features, it’s no wonder why it’s a top choice for those looking to track their daily activities and stay on top of their fitness goals. One of the most common questions asked about the Fitbit Charge HR is whether it has GPS capabilities. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of the Fitbit Charge HR’s features, including its GPS capabilities, and explore what makes it an excellent choice for fitness tracking.
Understanding the Fitbit Charge HR
The Fitbit Charge HR is a heart rate monitoring fitness tracker that was released in 2015. It’s a successor to the Fitbit Charge and offers several upgrades, including continuous heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and guided breathing sessions. The device is designed to be worn on the wrist and tracks various activities, such as steps taken, distance traveled, calories burned, and exercise.
Key Features of the Fitbit Charge HR
Some of the key features of the Fitbit Charge HR include:
- Continuous heart rate monitoring
- Sleep tracking
- Guided breathing sessions
- Step tracking
- Distance tracking
- Calorie burn tracking
- Exercise tracking
- Water resistance up to 50 meters
Does the Fitbit Charge HR Have GPS?
The answer to this question is a bit complicated. The Fitbit Charge HR does not have built-in GPS capabilities. However, it does offer a feature called “Connected GPS,” which allows users to connect their device to their smartphone’s GPS signal. This means that users can still track their runs, hikes, and other outdoor activities using the GPS signal from their smartphone.
How Connected GPS Works
Connected GPS uses the GPS signal from a user’s smartphone to track their location and distance traveled. When a user starts an exercise, such as a run or hike, they can connect their Fitbit Charge HR to their smartphone’s GPS signal. The device will then use the GPS signal to track the user’s location and distance traveled, providing accurate distance and pace data.
Benefits of Connected GPS
Connected GPS offers several benefits, including:
- Accurate distance and pace tracking
- Ability to track outdoor activities, such as runs and hikes
- No need for built-in GPS, which can conserve battery life
Limitations of Connected GPS
While Connected GPS is a convenient feature, it does have some limitations. For example:
- Users must have their smartphone with them to use Connected GPS
- The device must be connected to the smartphone via Bluetooth
- The GPS signal may be affected by tall buildings, trees, or other obstacles
Alternatives to the Fitbit Charge HR with GPS
If you’re looking for a fitness tracker with built-in GPS capabilities, there are several alternatives to the Fitbit Charge HR. Some popular options include:
- Fitbit Surge: A high-end fitness tracker with built-in GPS capabilities
- Garmin Forerunner 235: A GPS-enabled running watch with advanced features
- Apple Watch Series 2: A smartwatch with built-in GPS capabilities
Comparison of Fitbit Charge HR and Fitbit Surge
The Fitbit Surge is a high-end fitness tracker that offers several upgrades over the Fitbit Charge HR, including built-in GPS capabilities. Here’s a comparison of the two devices:
| Feature | Fitbit Charge HR | Fitbit Surge |
|---|---|---|
| GPS | Connected GPS | Built-in GPS |
| Heart Rate Monitoring | Continuous | Continuous |
| Water Resistance | Up to 50 meters | Up to 50 meters |
| Price | Around $100 | Around $200 |
Conclusion
The Fitbit Charge HR is a popular fitness tracker that offers several advanced features, including continuous heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking. While it does not have built-in GPS capabilities, it does offer Connected GPS, which allows users to connect their device to their smartphone’s GPS signal. If you’re looking for a fitness tracker with built-in GPS capabilities, there are several alternatives available, including the Fitbit Surge and Garmin Forerunner 235. Ultimately, the Fitbit Charge HR is an excellent choice for fitness tracking, and its Connected GPS feature makes it a great option for those who want to track their outdoor activities without the need for built-in GPS.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to fitness tracking, accuracy and convenience are key. The Fitbit Charge HR offers both, with its advanced features and user-friendly interface. While it may not have built-in GPS capabilities, its Connected GPS feature makes it a great option for those who want to track their outdoor activities. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just starting out, the Fitbit Charge HR is an excellent choice for anyone looking to stay on top of their fitness goals.
Does the Fitbit Charge HR have GPS?
The Fitbit Charge HR does not have built-in GPS. However, it can connect to your smartphone’s GPS to track your runs, hikes, and other outdoor activities. This feature is called “Connected GPS,” and it allows you to see your pace, distance, and route on your Fitbit device.
To use Connected GPS, you need to have your smartphone with you during your activity. The Fitbit app will use your phone’s GPS to track your location and sync the data with your Fitbit device. This way, you can still get accurate GPS tracking without having to carry a separate GPS device.
How does the Fitbit Charge HR track my activities?
The Fitbit Charge HR uses a combination of sensors to track your activities, including a 3-axis accelerometer, an altimeter, and a heart rate monitor. The accelerometer tracks your movements, such as steps taken, distance traveled, and calories burned. The altimeter tracks your elevation changes, such as stairs climbed.
The heart rate monitor tracks your heart rate and rhythm in real-time, allowing you to see how your body is responding to exercise and other activities. The Fitbit app also allows you to log your activities manually, so you can track activities that don’t involve movement, such as weightlifting or yoga.
Can I use the Fitbit Charge HR for swimming?
The Fitbit Charge HR is water-resistant, but it’s not designed for swimming or diving. It can withstand splashes and rain, but it’s not meant to be submerged in water for extended periods. If you plan to swim or engage in water activities, you may want to consider a different Fitbit model, such as the Fitbit Flex 2 or the Fitbit Ionic.
However, if you do get your Fitbit Charge HR wet, it’s not the end of the world. Just dry it off with a soft cloth and make sure it’s completely dry before putting it back on. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity, as this can damage the device.
How long does the Fitbit Charge HR battery last?
The Fitbit Charge HR battery typically lasts up to 5 days on a single charge, depending on usage. If you use the Connected GPS feature frequently, your battery life may be shorter. You can extend your battery life by turning off features like Bluetooth and heart rate monitoring when not in use.
To charge your Fitbit Charge HR, simply plug it into a USB port using the included charging cable. It takes about 1-2 hours to fully charge the device. You can also check your battery level on the Fitbit app, so you can plan ahead and charge your device when needed.
Is the Fitbit Charge HR compatible with my smartphone?
The Fitbit Charge HR is compatible with most smartphones, including iOS and Android devices. To use the Fitbit app, you need to have a compatible smartphone with Bluetooth 4.0 or later. You can check the Fitbit website for a list of compatible devices.
To pair your Fitbit Charge HR with your smartphone, simply download the Fitbit app and follow the instructions. You’ll need to create a Fitbit account and sync your device with your phone. Once paired, you can track your activities, receive notifications, and control your music playlists from your wrist.
Can I wear the Fitbit Charge HR in the shower?
While the Fitbit Charge HR is water-resistant, it’s not recommended to wear it in the shower. Soap, shampoo, and other chemicals can damage the device or cause skin irritation. Additionally, the water pressure and temperature changes can affect the device’s performance.
If you do wear your Fitbit Charge HR in the shower, make sure to rinse it off thoroughly with clean water and dry it off with a soft cloth. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity, as this can damage the device.
Can I replace the Fitbit Charge HR band?
Yes, you can replace the Fitbit Charge HR band with a new one. Fitbit offers a variety of band styles and colors, so you can choose one that suits your taste. You can also purchase third-party bands from other manufacturers.
To replace the band, simply slide the old band off and slide the new one on. Make sure the new band is compatible with your Fitbit Charge HR model. You can also check the Fitbit website for instructions on how to replace the band.