Fitbit Air: Essential Tips for Making an Informed Purchase

After nearly eight years of testing smartwatches and fitness trackers, I can confidently say that the Fitbit Air has truly disrupted the wearable market in a way that I haven’t seen in a long time.

Having used Google’s innovative screenless device for a week now, I have some insights to share before my full review is published, which will be valuable for anyone considering pre-ordering.

Priced at just £84.99/$99.99, the Fitbit Air is positioned to catch the attention of many consumers, especially when compared to the more expensive Whoop Strap. However, beyond price, this wearable stands out as a unique departure from traditional fitness trackers that Fitbit users are used to.

Here are my three main observations from using the Fitbit Air for a week:

It is more comfortable than the Whoop Strap

Simply looking at the size difference between the latest Whoop Straps and the Fitbit Air may suggest this, but the Fitbit Air lives up to its name by being slimmer and lighter. Weighing in at just 12g with the band, it feels almost weightless on the wrist. The slim profile and velcro band make it easy to forget you’re wearing it, unlike the bulkier Whoop Strap.

As someone who has used the Whoop Strap 4.0 for years, I can attest to the comfort level of the Fitbit Air being a significant improvement. The ease of adjusting the band on the Fitbit Air adds to its overall comfort compared to the Whoop band.

It is not a replacement for your smartwatch

While the Fitbit Air is attractively priced and unobtrusive, it should not be seen as a substitute for a smartwatch. With no screen or GPS tracking, you’ll need to bring along your phone or smartwatch for more detailed information on your activities. The absence of NFC means you’ll need your physical wallet for transactions.

However, the synergy between the Fitbit Air and Google Health app allows for seamless data integration with other devices like the Pixel Watch 4, offering a comprehensive view of your activity throughout the day.

Arguing with Gemini is a game-changer

One standout feature of the Fitbit Air is the Gemini AI platform, which offers a more personalized and conversational approach to fitness tracking. Instead of receiving generic notifications, users can engage with Gemini to tailor their fitness goals and routines based on individual circumstances.

This adaptive and non-judgmental approach sets the Fitbit Air apart from other fitness trackers, making it a valuable tool for users with varying lifestyles and priorities.

While there is more to explore with the Fitbit Air, the initial experience suggests that it will make a significant impact in the fitness tracker market.

Save 29% on this Fitbit Air bundle