The Fitbit Charge 6 tracks workouts in more detail and has the livelier app, but needs charging more often. The Garmin Vivosmart 5 runs far longer between charges and keeps things simple. It comes down to richer tracking against longer battery and a plainer experience.
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| Spec | Fitbit Charge 6 | Garmin Vivosmart 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery life | ~7 days | Lasts longer |
| GPS | Built-in | Uses phone GPS |
| App & features | Rich, guided workouts | Simpler |
| Subscription | ~$11/mo for full features | None needed |
| Workout tracking | More detailed | Basic |
The Garmin Vivosmart 5 lasts well past the Fitbit's seven days and needs no subscription. The Fitbit Charge 6 charges more often and locks its best features behind $12.99 a month.
The Fitbit has built-in GPS and more detailed workout tracking. The Garmin leans on your phone for GPS and keeps tracking basic. For data depth the Fitbit leads.
Richer tracking and a livelier app point to the Fitbit. Longer battery and no subscription point to the Garmin.
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