Compare Fitness Trackers: Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 vs. Fitbit Inspire 3

Shoppers seeking fitness trackers this holiday season are considering two popular options: the Fitbit Inspire 3 and the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3. The Fitbit Inspire 3, launched by Google, is a sleek tracker designed for simplicity and effectiveness. In contrast, the Galaxy Fit 3, released in 2024, offers a more robust feature set, appealing to users looking for a comprehensive fitness solution.

Both devices feature a band-type design, which is less bulky than traditional smartwatches while still offering a range of fitness functionalities. They track various activities such as steps, sleep, and exercise, and connect seamlessly to smartphones. The Fitbit Inspire 3 is currently priced at around £84 on Amazon, close to its recommended retail price, although it has dipped as low as £58.99 in the past, with potential discounts expected during the upcoming Black Friday sales.

The Galaxy Fit 3, on the other hand, is available for £59, with a promotional code reducing the price to £49. Historically, this device has been available for as low as £39, suggesting that further savings may be possible soon.

Design and Display Features

Both fitness trackers feature displays that provide notifications, time, and fitness statistics. The Galaxy Fit 3 boasts a larger display at 1.6 inches compared to the 1.47 inches of the Fitbit Inspire 3. This difference in size may appeal to users who prefer a more watch-like experience, while those who favor discretion might opt for the slimmer Inspire 3, which weighs only 19 grams compared to the Galaxy’s 36 grams.

In terms of water resistance, both devices are rated for 50 meters of depth, but the Galaxy Fit 3 has an IP68 rating, providing better protection against dust and prolonged immersion in water. Battery life also varies slightly, with the Fitbit lasting up to 10 days and the Galaxy Fit 3 offering up to 13 days, dependent on usage patterns.

Health and Fitness Tracking Capabilities

Both fitness bands come equipped with essential sensors, including an accelerometer for step tracking, an optical heart rate monitor, and blood oxygen monitoring. Each device provides 24/7 heart rate readings, sleep tracking, and step counting. However, the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 includes a barometer for altitude tracking, while the Fitbit Inspire 3 features a temperature sensor, which can be beneficial for tracking female cycles.

Neither device has built-in GPS; instead, they rely on smartphone GPS for location data. This may limit the accuracy of exercise tracking when not connected to a phone. For users prioritizing GPS tracking, alternatives like the Garmin Vivoactive 5 may be worth considering.

Samsung supports tracking for over 100 different exercise types, while Fitbit offers 21. However, Fitbit enables users to create custom activities, enhancing its flexibility. In terms of connectivity, the Fitbit Inspire 3 is compatible with both Android and iPhone via the Fitbit app, whereas the Galaxy Fit 3 is exclusively for Android users.

An important consideration for potential buyers is the subscription model associated with these devices. The Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 does not require any subscription, ensuring all features are accessible upon purchase. Conversely, the Fitbit Inspire 3 offers a subscription service called Fitbit Premium for £7.99 per month, which unlocks advanced metrics like the Daily Readiness Score and guided workouts. Nevertheless, most core functionalities remain available for free on the Inspire 3.

Both the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 and Fitbit Inspire 3 cater to individuals aiming to monitor their health closely. They provide valuable insights into heart rate and sleep quality, helping users achieve their fitness goals. Overall, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding design, features, and compatibility with smartphones.