Fitbit Inspire 2 vs Samsung Galaxy Fit 2: the battle of the fitness bands

Fitbit Inspire 2 and Samsung Galaxy Fit 2 have a few things in common. Both were released in September 2020, they come in a traditional fitness band format, both are slim and are intended for a similar custom base. The duo is also reasonably priced.

We are unlikely to get new editions of these fitness bands at least for another year. So if you’re after something discreet that sits on your wrist and gathers health and activity data, now might be a good time to decide between one of the two.

As much as the Fitbit Inspire 2 and Samsung Galaxy Fit 2 have in common, there are some important differences to be aware of. In this article we explain what they are.

Fitbit Inspire 2 or Samsung Galaxy Fit 2: Design

When it comes to design, the Samsung and Fitbit adopt a fairly sporty, rubberized design with plastic housing. The build is nothing to write home about but at least the devices can take quite a beating. Samsung’s previous models had a bit of metal thrown in but the company has decided to drop this in order to keep the price down.

Inspire 2 has more rounded edges and looks perhaps a bit more sleek of the two. Mind you, both of these devices are incredibly lightweight at around 20 grams. This is despite the fact that the Samsung device is slightly larger, 46.6 x 18.6 mm vs 37.0 mm x 16.2 mm. 

Unlike the Samsung, Fitbit Inspire 2 has a physical button on the left. You can use this in addition to the touch-screen to wake up and navigate the device. Its display is a black and white OLED. So no color there but it is quite readable in all conditions.

Samsung leaves the Fitbit in the dust with its full color 3D glass AMOLED touchscreen. It allows for more than 70 different face options out of the box. The company has increased the display size from the 0,95 inches of its predecessor.

Outside of the display and capacitive button, there’s very little to separate the two in terms of looks. They are both light and comfortable so are unlikely to be the main factor when deciding on a purchase. The look is unisex so should appeal equally to everyone.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

That similar story continues when you look under the hood. The duo shares a 3-axis accelerometer and optical heart rate sensor. The one addition is the gyroscope that is built into the Samsung device. There are some important software-based differences, though, which we cover later in the article.

Fitbit Inspire 2 or Samsung Galaxy Fit 2: Battery life and water resistance

As is the case with most fitness bands, the Fitbit and Samsung operate on a rechargeable Lithium battery. Inspire 2 has a fairly decent 10 days on a single charge. But Samsung has the San Francisco wearables manufacturer beat with its 15 day battery life. This can be extended to 21 days with limited functionality switched on. Galaxy Fit 2 actually doubles the battery life over its predecessor.

Both wearables are water-resistant down to 50 meters so can be worn in the shower or pool. They will also track swimming workouts but only with basic detail.

Here’s a table with a detailed look at specs.

Fitbit Inspire 2 or Samsung Galaxy Fit 2: Features

As you would expect, you will find fitness essentials on both bands. This includes the usual steps tracking, distance, calories, sleep, heart rate and more. It is 2021 – any half-decent fitness band should have these things covered. No excuse not to!

These are not first generation devices. So Fitbit and Samsung have had time to perfect their sensors, algorithms and other software. Everything has been tried and tested for years so the quality of data should suffice on both fitness bands.

There is no SpO2 sensor for tracking blood oxygen or altimeter for counting floors climbed on either of these two. They are sticking to the basics. No stress tracking, either.

Fitbit Inspire 2 Gadgets & Wearables may get a commission

The one important omission from Galaxy Fit 2 as compared to Inspire 2 is the lack of any form of GPS support. Okay, the Fitbit doesn’t have built-in GPS either. But it has the ability to tap into the smartphone signal for more precise monitoring of outdoor exercise.

This means that you will need to rely purely on motion sensors on the Samsung to track your running and cycling distance. Those that are serious about these outdoor pursuits do need something with GPS ability.

The Fitbit also has some other extras that come in the form of Active Minutes and Female Health Tracking. Features that are more nice-to-have rather than must-have.

As far as smart features, the duo has the ability to show smartphone notifications on the wrist and change watch-faces. By default, the bands show a clock so you can use them to tell the time.

The Samsung does go a bit further in this sense. You can control music on your smartphone from the device, as well as view weather forecasts, look at your calendar, set up alarms and a hand wash timer.

Fitbit Inspire 2 or Samsung Galaxy Fit 2: The bottom line

Fitbit Inspire 2 and Samsung Galaxy Fit 2 are for those that want a no-frills, comfortable, lightweight fitness tracker. The duo does the basics and does them well.

What works in Samsung’s favor is the full-color display, longer battery life and much lower price-tag. The one big omission, though, is any form of GPS connectivity.

The Fitbit does come with this along with more health and fitness tracking stats. But it costs about twice as much as the Samsung.

Samsung Galaxy Fit 2 Gadgets & Wearables may get a commission

If you already own a Samsung phone we suggest sticking with the brand. Galaxy Fit 2 is also something that represents a good first-time purchase. And let’s not forget its much better-quality display which might make a difference to some. On the other hand if you want deeper insights into your health and fitness, we suggest going for the Fitbit.

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