Fitbit Edge vs Charge 6: Key Differences Explained

The Fitbit brand has long been known for fitness trackers featuring compact displays, but it has been three years since the last release of this kind. With the official announcement and opening of pre-orders for the Fitbit Edge, longtime users are naturally eager to see how it compares against the Fitbit Charge 6.

Design-wise, the Edge sits comfortably between the screenless Fitbit Air and the curved display of the Pixel Watch. Running on the same operating system as the Air, it pairs seamlessly with both iPhones and Android devices. Following hands-on testing of a review unit sent by Google, several clear hardware distinctions have emerged between the two generations.

Here are the four key areas where the Fitbit Edge outperforms the older Charge 6 model:

• Physical Button: The Edge features a real mechanical button on the right casing that clicks audibly, replacing the unreliable haptic touch nub found on the Charge 6.
• Altimeter Sensor: Returning for the first time since the Charge 4, the new altimeter tracks altitude, climbed floors, and elevation changes during hikes and runs much more accurately.
• Upgraded GPS Hardware: While both devices feature built-in GPS, the Charge 6 suffered from antenna distortion if the wristband was too tight. Google promises improved GPS hardware on the Edge.
• Universal Music Control: Unlike the Charge 6, which restricted music controls exclusively to a paid YouTube Music subscription, the Edge works with whatever audio is playing on your phone.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

"The altimeter is a brand-new bit of hardware in the Fitbit Edge. You have to go back to the Charge 4 to find a Fitbit tracker with an altimeter."

Beth Skwarecki, Lifehacker

On the downside, the Fitbit Edge introduces two notable compromises. First, Google Wallet capability has been removed, meaning you can no longer tap to pay at stores from your wrist. Second, Google Maps turn-by-turn directions are not available at launch, though Google promises the feature is coming soon.