Google unveils Fitbit Edge: how it differs from the cheaper Inspire 3
Google has launched the Fitbit Edge, a $180 health and fitness smartwatch. Compared with the $99.95 Fitbit Inspire 3, it has a wider screen, an aluminum case, built-in GPS and a broader set of health sensors.
Technology company Google has introduced the Fitbit Edge, a new smartwatch for tracking health, sleep and fitness. Priced at $180, it sits between a basic fitness band and a full smartwatch. The natural point of comparison is the Fitbit Inspire 3, which costs $99.95.
Design and price
Both devices use an AMOLED display, but the Edge screen is 6.9 mm wider. The Edge measures 39.2 x 25.5 x 11.5 mm, while the Inspire 3 is 39.32 x 18.6 x 11.75 mm. The Edge has a case made of 100 percent recycled aluminum and a more tactile side button; the Inspire 3 is more rectangular and made of plastic. The Edge comes in four colors (olive green, black, white and coral peach), plus a pricier orange edition endorsed by NBA star Steph Curry at $220. The Inspire 3 comes in three colors.
Connectivity and exercise
The Edge has built-in GPS, which Google says improves tracking accuracy by 40 percent, so runners can leave their phone at home. It also has Bluetooth 5.4 for connecting headphones, plus Quick Replies, music controls and weather forecasts; Google Maps support is expected soon. The Inspire 3 lacks these features but shows calendar notifications. Both support Google's Find My Device.
The Edge automatically detects 100 movement activities and tracks more than 50 exercise modes, against 20 on the Inspire 3. Only the Edge shows cardio load, target cardio load, floors climbed and heart rate on workout machines.
Health data and battery
The Edge offers 24/7 heart rate tracking, an ECG app with irregular heartbeat (AFib) detection, and monthly insights into blood pressure and insulin resistance. It also adds a skin temperature sensor, a gyroscope and an altimeter.
Google says the Edge lasts up to a week per charge, versus up to 10 days for the Inspire 3. Both have a 5 ATM water resistance rating, but only the Edge has an IP68 dust-resistance rating.
