The fitness tracker landscape is shifting, and Fitbit, now under Google's umbrella, finds itself in a transitional period. While questions linger about Google's long-term vision for the brand, several compelling Fitbit devices remain strong contenders for tracking fitness and health metrics in 2026. But with mandatory Google account migrations and the sunsetting of legacy features, users face a crucial decision: is Fitbit still the right choice?
Pixel Watch 4: The Best Fitbit Smartwatch, But at a Price
The Google Pixel Watch 4 emerges as the top pick, despite not bearing the Fitbit name directly. The fourth-generation smartwatch boasts a significant redesign with a domed display, thinner bezels, and improved repairability, addressing previous concerns. "The Pixel Watch 4’s mix of hardware, features, and price make it the best Fitbit, and one of the top Android watches overall," reports The Verge.
Performance gains are notable, with battery life extended to 36-42 hours in tests and faster charging facilitated by a new proprietary charger. Wear OS 6 integration introduces Material 3 Expressive and Gemini, enhancing user experience with features like raise-to-talk and AI-powered smart replies. However, the $349.99 price point may deter budget-conscious consumers. The Pixel Watch 4 can automatically track a limited number of exercises, allowing you to accurately record your walks, runs, and cycling sessions. Its dual-band GPS was better at tracking runs than the Pixel Watch 3 in our initial tests, but it couldn’t quite keep up with Apple’s pricier Watch Ultra 3.
Balancing Budget and Features: Inspire 3 and Charge 6
For those seeking a more affordable entry point, the Fitbit Inspire 3 presents a compelling option at $99.95. This minimalist fitness band delivers notifications and tracks activity on a bright OLED screen. Its strengths lie in simplicity, focusing on core features like sleep tracking, stress management, and irregular heart rate notifications, without the bells and whistles of built-in GPS or contactless payments.
The Fitbit Charge 6, priced at $159.95, strikes a balance between features and affordability. It boasts a color OLED screen, EKG and EDA sensors, built-in GPS, and NFC payments. While the always-on display impacts battery life, the Charge 6 stands out as the only FDA-cleared EKG wearable under $200. The addition of Google Maps, Google Wallet, and YouTube Music (subscription required) expands its functionality, making it a solid all-around fitness tracker. YouTube Music works well, but it requires an additional $10.99 monthly subscription. That said, it’s better than nothing, as Fitbit discontinued onboard music a while back.
A Walled Garden for Kids: Fitbit Ace LTE
The Fitbit Ace LTE, priced at $179.99, targets a younger demographic with its mix of kid-friendly games, activities, and family-oriented communication features. Instead of rigorously tracking health stats, the Ace LTE tracks “active minutes,” which fill a cute progress meter called a Noodle that runs around the face of the watch. Active minutes earn time with the Ace LTE’s built-in games that, combined with activities, unlock customizations for your kid’s avatar (called an Eejie) that lives in the watch, as well as its little house. The watch prioritizes communication with preselected contacts through the Fitbit Ace app and offers real-time location tracking with a $10/month subscription. While its limited features may frustrate older children, the Ace LTE provides a safe and engaging introduction to wearable technology for kids aged 7-11.
"Google angered longtime Fitbit users by shuttering social features like challenges and removing streaks."
— The VergeThe Google Factor: A Clouded Future?
Despite these appealing devices, the shadow of Google looms large. The mandatory Fitbit-to-Google account migration, slated for early 2026, has sparked concerns among long-time users wary of data privacy and feature changes. The Verge notes that Google angered longtime Fitbit users by shuttering social features like challenges and removing streaks. Moreover, Google's layoffs in early 2024, impacting the Pixel, Fitbit, and Nest teams, further fueled uncertainty about the company's commitment to the Fitbit brand. However, the redesigned Fitbit app and the promise of an AI-powered health coach suggest that Google is not abandoning the platform entirely. As we move further into 2026, the key question remains: will Google fully integrate Fitbit into its ecosystem, or will it allow the brand to maintain its distinct identity and appeal? Only time, and future product releases, will tell.