Comparing Alta HR and Blaze
When it comes to choosing the right fitness tracker for your lifestyle, Fitbit is a brand known for its wide range of devices. In this article, we will compare two popular Fitbit models, the Alta HR and the Blaze, to help you make an informed decision. We will discuss the brands, their reputation, and history, as well as provide an in-depth comparison of each device’s materials, features, user interface and experience, cost, and overall value for money.
It’s essential to select a watch that fits your needs, whether it’s for daily fitness tracking, measuring your heart rate, or for more specific activities such as swimming or cycling. The right watch will ensure you get the most out of your exercise regimen, while giving you valuable insights into your health and wellness.
Fitbit is a well-established brand in the wearables market, with a reputation for combining style, functionality, and performance into their devices. Founded in 2007, Fitbit has been at the forefront of the fitness tracker industry, offering a wide variety of devices catering to different user needs and preferences.
We will provide a comprehensive comparison of the Fitbit Alta HR and Fitbit Blaze to help you choose the best fitness tracker for your requirements. Let’s dive in.
Design and Build
Fitbit Alta HR
The Fitbit Alta HR features a slim, stylish design with a durable stainless steel body and interchangeable bands. Measuring 1.61" x 0.61", the Alta HR is lightweight at 0.8 oz. The display is an OLED tap screen with a resolution of 128 x 36 pixels, offering clear, easy-to-read text and icons.
Fitbit Blaze
On the other hand, Fitbit Blaze boasts a larger, more robust design with a stainless steel body and a color LCD touchscreen. Weighing 1.44 oz, the Blaze features a wider strap and more prominent case (1.66" x 1.66") than the Alta HR. While the screen resolution is not available, the color display enables engaging and dynamic visuals.
Comparison of design and build quality
Both Alta HR and Blaze share the use of stainless steel, adding durability to their stylish design. While the Alta HR is more compact and lightweight, the Blaze is more prominent and offers a color display. The choice between the two depends on personal preference for size and style, as well as the importance of a color screen.
Features and Functionality
Fitbit Alta HR
The Fitbit Alta HR lacks a dedicated operating system and built-in apps but has a robust set of fitness tracking features. These include an optical heart rate sensor, an accelerometer, step counting, calories burned, distance traveled, sleep tracking, and basic notifications for calls, texts, and calendar events. The device is compatible with Android, iOS, Windows Phone, Mac, and Windows devices. The battery life of the Alta HR is impressive at 7 days, and it features Bluetooth for connectivity.
Fitbit Blaze
Like the Alta HR, Fitbit Blaze doesn’t come with a unique operating system or built-in apps. It offers similar fitness tracking features, such as an accelerometer, optical heart rate sensor, sleep tracking, step counting, calories burned, and distance traveled. Additionally, the Blaze has a barometer, smartphone notifications, music controls, and guided workouts. It’s compatible with Android, iOS, partially with Windows Phone, Mac, and Windows devices. The battery life is slightly lower, at 5 days, and the Blaze also uses Bluetooth for connectivity.
Comparison of features and performance
Both the Alta HR and Blaze offer robust fitness tracking options, with the Blaze having a few additional features like a barometer and music controls. However, both devices lack GPS and built-in app support. Choosing between the Alta HR and Blaze will depend on how important the extra features are to the user, as well as the difference in battery life.
User Interface and User Experience
Fitbit Alta HR
The Fitbit Alta HR utilizes an OLED tap display for interaction, allowing users to swipe through stats and notifications. Customization is limited to changing the clock face, adjusting device settings, and switching out bands. Compatibility with smartphones is extensive, encompassing Android, iOS, and Windows devices.
Fitbit Blaze
In contrast, the Fitbit Blaze features a more comprehensive user interface with its color LCD touchscreen. Users can dive deeper into fitness data, explore guided workouts, and control music playback. Customization includes changing clock faces, adjusting device settings, and switching bands. Blaze is compatible with Android, iOS, partially with Windows smartphones, and Mac and Windows computers.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
The Fitbit Blaze boasts a more engaging and interactive user experience with its color LCD touchscreen and additional features like guided workouts and music controls. The Alta HR has a simpler interface, suited for users seeking basic fitness tracking without the extras. Both devices offer compatibility with a wide range of smartphones and computers.
Price and Value
Fitbit Alta HR
With a retail price of $150, the Fitbit Alta HR provides great value for money, considering its battery life, fitness tracking capabilities, and sleek design.
Fitbit Blaze
At a retail price of $200, the Fitbit Blaze offers a more robust set of features and a color display, making it a compelling option for those willing to spend a bit more for additional functionality.
Comparison of price and value
The decision between the Alta HR and Blaze comes down to individual preferences for design, features, and budget. The Alta HR provides a sleek, lightweight option with essential fitness tracking features, while the Blaze offers a more comprehensive user experience with its color display and additional features.
Conclusion
Both the Fitbit Alta HR and Fitbit Blaze have their unique strengths, making them suitable for different user preferences. If you’re looking for a slim, lightweight fitness tracker with basic features and a longer battery life, the Alta HR is a great choice. However, if you prefer a fitness tracker with a color display, additional features, and are willing to spend a bit more, the Blaze is the better option. Ultimately, the choice comes down to your personal preferences and fitness tracking requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Fitbit Alta HR and Fitbit Blaze waterproof?
Both devices are water-resistant but not waterproof, making them suitable for use during exercise, in the rain, and while washing hands, but not for swimming or submerged activities.
Which device has built-in GPS?
Neither the Fitbit Alta HR nor the Fitbit Blaze has built-in GPS capabilities. However, they can still track distance traveled using their built-in accelerometers.
Do the Fitbit Alta HR and Fitbit Blaze support third-party apps?
Both devices lack built-in support for third-party apps, providing basic fitness tracking functionality without app integration.
Can the bands be replaced on both devices?
Yes, both the Fitbit Alta HR and Fitbit Blaze have interchangeable bands, allowing for personalization and style changes.
Do both devices have built-in heart rate monitoring?
Yes, both the Fitbit Alta HR and Fitbit Blaze come equipped with optical heart rate sensors for continuous heart rate tracking during activity and rest.
