Smartwatches and fitness trackers have exploded in popularity in recent years. Allowing users to monitor health metrics, access phone notifications, track workouts and more right from their wrist, these handy devices can feel like science fiction made real.
Industry analysts expect over 30 million smartwatch shipments globally in 2022 as adoption continues to grow. But with many options flooding the market, buyers need help identifying the best match for their needs and budget when comparing top brands like Fitbit versus Apple Watch.
This guide will analyze all the key strengths and limitations of Fitbit‘s flagship Sense device and Apple‘s latest Series 7 watch. Comparing features like design, displays, battery life, tracking accuracy, smart functions and value can help determine the better choice for you.
So read on for the ultimate Fitbit Sense versus Apple Watch 7 showdown!
Brief Background on Fitbit and Apple in Wearables
Fitbit‘s first wireless activity tracker launched back in 2009, focusing on step counting and sleep tracking. Over successive generations, the company added more sensors, analytics, apps and motivational tools to empower users to lead healthier lifestyles.
In 2017, Fitbit acquired smartwatch maker Pebble as it sought to evolve beyond basic fitness bands. The following year it released its first full-featured smartwatch, the Fitbit Versa, to compete with the Apple Watch. This paved the way for more advanced devices like 2020‘s Fitbit Sense.
Speaking of Apple, the tech giant entered the smartwatch scene relatively late with 2015‘s Apple Watch. But through deep iPhone integration and best-in-class software and hardware, Apple has made the Watch a must-have iPhone accessory.
The Apple Watch now commands 30% of the total smartwatch market according to analysis by Counterpoint Research. But with 10% share, Fitbit also retains a strong position providing cross-platform health tracking and motivation.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Fitbit Sense and Apple Watch Series 7 boast eye-catching and durable designs perfect for daily wear.
The Sense combines a square 1.58-inch touch display with curved corners wrapped in aircraft grade aluminum or stainless steel casing, depending on model. Covering the display is scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass for added protection.
Meanwhile, the Apple Watch 7 iteration retains the iconic rounded square aesthetic crafted from aluminum, steel or titanium. An Always-On Retina display is covered with crack-resistant crystal glass on 41mm and 45mm size options.
For customization, Apple offers far more band varieties from sporty silicone to premium leather and metal links to tweak the look. Fitbit‘s bands can also be swapped but third-party options are fewer.
Build quality and materials are excellent throughout, with both companies clearly designing devices to handle rugged everyday usage. And if appearances matter, Apple likely has the edge for those wanting a more stylish fashion accessory.
Display Technology Comparison
While compact at just 1.58-inches, the Fitbit Sense doesn‘t skimp on display tech – featuring a quality AMOLED panel for crisp imagery, true blacks and excellent brightness with up to 1000 nits for outdoor visibility.
Fitbit Sense Display Specs:
- 1.58" AMOLED
- 336 x 336 pixels
- 1000 nits max brightness
- Corning Gorilla Glass 3
- Supports Always-On display mode
Apple takes things up a notch for those who want maximum screen real estate. The Apple Watch 7 sports over 20% more viewable surface than Series 6. Both the 41mm and 45mm sizes are larger but resolutions remain sharp thanks to LTPO OLED panels.
Apple Watch Series 7 Display Specs:
| 41mm | 45mm | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 1.9" | 1.9" |
| Resolution | 352 x 430 px | 396 x 484 px |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 1000 nits |
| Technology | LTPO OLED | LTPO OLED |
| Cover Glass | Ion-X Strengthened | Ion-X Strengthened |
| Always-On | Yes | Yes |
The Always-On Retina display on Apple Watch 7 allows quick glances to check the time, activity progress or notifications without raising your wrist fully. This display innovation truly sets Apple apart from Fitbit for convenience.
Battery Life and Charging
For users wanting to track sleep or endure long workouts without their watch dying, battery life is paramount. And Fitbit Sense delivers where Apple Watch 7 falls short.
Through battery saving optimizations, the Fitbit Sense watch promises over 6 days of typical usage between charges. Even heavy usage scenarios should still exceed 3 days of runtime. Standby time can extend into weeks without needing to pack the proprietary charger during travel and outdoor adventures.
Apple has struggled with battery life complaints for years, and the Series 7 iteration is still rated for just 18 hours of "normal use". That means most owners will be charging their Apple Watch every single day…and packing that unique magnetic charger for overnight getaways.
Both the Fitbit and Apple watches provide quick charging capabilities to replenish enough juice in minutes for hours of runtime. So Apple only claws back time here based on more frequent sessions.
Sensors and Tracking Accuracy
Health, activity and sleep tracking accuracy make or break a fitness wearable. And both companies stuff their flagship watches with advanced sensors and calibration to deliver insights into user‘s wellness and performance.
The Sense provides 24/7 PurePulse heart rate monitoring which studies have shown match dedicated chest straps for precision during exercise and everyday activities. Blood oxygen measurements, temperature sensors and stress tracking are also part of the package.
Apple has focused more attention on mobility safety for falls and heart health tracking as users age, earning FDA clearance for notifications around arrhythmia and mobility safety features. Oxygen saturation measurements are also calibrated to account for darker skin tones.
For fitness enthusiasts, built-in GPS allows tracking outdoor cycling and running sessions without carrying a smartphone. The Fitbit Sense lacks onboard GPS, relying instead in connected GPS via your phone for pace and route mapping.
Overall both provide excellent health tracking with Fitbit taking a more holistic wellness approach while Apple puts user safety and research-focused insights first. Either watch should provide motivation to move more, exercise smarter and understand your body‘s needs.
Smartwatch Features Beyond Health Tracking
While pioneers in health tracking wearables, both companies have evolved their flagship wrist devices into versatile smartwatches delivering notifications, apps and daily conveniences beyond just step counts.
Thanks to deep integration with iPhones, the Apple Watch 7 provides a seamless experience letting owners access texts, calls, emails and more without grabbing their phone. Hundreds of apps perfectly sized for the wrist deliver hyperlocal news alerts, weather forecasts, to-do list management, transit tickets, mobile payments and much more.
And thanks to the snappy S7 processor driving the slick watchOS interface, the Apple Watch 7 zips through tasks quicker than ever. 32GB of storage means you can even download playlists for offline listening via Bluetooth headphones.
The Fitbit Sense in contrast focuses its smart features more narrowly on health insights, fitness guidance, sleep tracking and goal setting. Phone notifications are present but this device lacks the vibrant app ecosystem or slick UX of watchOS. Voice assistant support for Alexa and Google is handy but can‘t match Siri for deep device integration.
So if you want the ultimate wrist-based assistant to cut down on smartphone use, Apple Watch 7 is the clear winner here while the Sense watches your health.
Pricing and Value Comparison
The Fitbit Sense originally retailed for $299 while current Apple Watch 7 pricing starts from $399 and stretches past $800 for premium materials and LTE connectivity. So at face value, Fitbit delivers strong value.
However resale values on used Apple Watch models have proven very resilient over past generation devices, thanks to loyal upgraders. So despite higher Apple pricing, long term cost of ownership may be comparable for those who resell while opting for the latest editions. Component costs are simply higher for Apple given advanced displays and processors.
Additionally, cheaper Fitbit devices with basic fitness tracking start under $100. So budget-focused shoppers have options to spend far less while still accessing Fitbit‘s excellent app platform. Apps and services may ultimately impact overall value as much as upfront pricing.
Apple also charges $100 extra for cellular LTE connectivity to untether from your iPhone and make calls or stream music without your phone nearby. So costs add up fast if you want maximum functionality from Apple. The overall experience remains highly polished, but expect to pay a premium.
Who Are the Fitbit Sense and Apple Watch 7 Best Suited For?
The Sense seems tailored for health-focused users wanting 24/7 insights into metrics like heart rate variability, skin temperature and stress levels. The holistic dashboard, multi-day battery and Android compatibility make this a great wellness coach.
With onboard GPS absent, hardcore athletes are better served by the Apple Watch 7 for tracking pace and route maps when running or cycling. But casual exercisers will still appreciate the activity summaries and hitting Active Zone Minutes.
For those already bought into Apple‘s ecosystem, the Apple Watch 7 delivers incredible value as an iPhone companion – allowing owners to cut the cord for notifications, messages, calls, music playback and other daily tasks. Frequent travelers in particular will love features like hotel room keycards on the wrist.
Ultimately both advanced wearables aim to provide technology-driven insights and motivation to support healthier, more active lifestyles. So choose the Fitbit Sense watch if a holistic wellness picture is most important. Or opt for the Apple Watch 7 for the ultimate iPhone-connected smartwatch experience with world-class fitness tracking built-in.
The Bottom Line
While the Fitbit Sense versus Apple Watch 7 face-off looks closely matched at first glance, minor differences in focus give each device strengths and weaknesses depending on user needs and preferences.
The always-on display, vast app selection and slick experience of Apple Watch 7 make it the perfect iPhone companion. But shorter battery life and premium pricing limit aspects of the value proposition.
Meanwhile the Fitbit Sense provides broader smartphone support and sensors galore for temperature, stress and oxygen monitoring. But GPS, apps and smart functions prove more limited.
Ultimately both devices mark milestones in the evolution of health tracking wearables into motivating and convenient smart devices for the wrist. So consider your needs, ecosystem and budget to decide if crisp Apple style or Fitbit‘s sensor richness makes the most sense before strapping a tracker to your wrist.
