As the holiday shopping season approaches, many consumers are considering fitness trackers as potential gifts. The Fitbit Inspire 3 and the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 are two prominent options available in the market, both designed to cater to fitness enthusiasts.
The Fitbit Inspire 3 is the latest slim fitness tracker from Google, while the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 was introduced in 2024. Both devices feature a band-type design that is more compact than traditional smartwatches, yet they do not compromise on fitness capabilities.
Both trackers include displays for notifications, time, and various statistics, while effectively tracking a comprehensive range of activities including steps, sleep, and exercise. The Inspire 3 is priced at £84 on Amazon, which aligns closely with its suggested retail price, although it has previously dipped to £58.99 and may see similar discounts around Black Friday.
In contrast, the Galaxy Fit 3 is available for £59 on Amazon, with a promotional code that reduces the price to £49. Historically, it has been offered at a lower price point of £39 during Black Friday sales, suggesting potential savings for prospective buyers.
Both fitness trackers feature front displays that allow users to view notifications and monitor their health metrics. The Galaxy Fit 3 boasts a slightly larger screen at 1.6 inches, compared to the 1.47-inch display of the Inspire 3. This larger display may enhance usability, making it more appealing for those who prefer a watch-like experience. Conversely, the Inspire 3 is designed to be more discreet.
Weight is another consideration; the Inspire 3 weighs 19 grams, whereas the Galaxy Fit 3 is heavier at 36 grams, including the strap. In terms of durability, the Inspire 3 offers 50-meter water resistance rated at IP57, while the Galaxy Fit 3 provides 50 meters of water resistance with a higher IP68 rating.
Battery life varies slightly between the two devices, with the Fitbit offering up to 10 days and the Samsung up to 13 days, although actual performance can depend on usage patterns. Both trackers come with interchangeable straps for customization.
Each device includes a variety of sensors, such as an accelerometer for tracking steps and activities, an optical heart rate monitor, and blood oxygen monitoring capabilities. They both provide continuous heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking. However, the Galaxy Fit 3 is equipped with a barometer for improved altitude tracking, a feature absent in the Inspire 3. On the other hand, the Inspire 3 includes a temperature sensor, beneficial for tracking the menstrual cycle.
Neither device is equipped with built-in GPS, relying instead on smartphone GPS for location data, which may limit accuracy during standalone exercise sessions. Users seeking advanced GPS functionality might consider alternatives like the Garmin Vivoactive 5.
Both trackers support a range of sports tracking features, with Samsung offering over 100 exercise types compared to Fitbit”s 21. Nevertheless, users can create custom activities on the Fitbit platform.
When it comes to smartphone compatibility, the Inspire 3 is universally compatible with both Android and iPhone through the Fitbit app. In contrast, the Galaxy Fit 3 is limited to Android devices, lacking support for iPhones.
Another factor to consider is the subscription model. The Galaxy Fit 3 does not require a subscription for access to features, whereas the Inspire 3″s core functions are available without a subscription, though Fitbit does offer a premium tier for advanced metrics at a monthly fee. Most users will find that the essential functions needed for fitness tracking are free on the Inspire 3.
In summary, both the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 and Fitbit Inspire 3 are excellent choices for individuals looking to monitor their health and fitness. The Inspire 3 offers a lightweight and compact option, ideal for those who prefer a subtle device. In contrast, the Galaxy Fit 3″s larger display may appeal to users who favor a more watch-like interface, although it lacks compatibility with iPhones.
