Tech Reviews & Smartwatch Insights

When Fitbit launched the Charge 6 in 2023, it quickly became one of the most popular fitness bands on the market. With Google integration, heart-rate accuracy improvements, and built-in GPS, it seemed like the perfect upgrade from the Charge 5. But as real-world users found out, the Charge 6 wasn’t flawless.

Now, in 2025, the Fitbit Charge 7 is here  and Fitbit has listened. The new model addresses nearly every major complaint that Charge 6 owners voiced. Below, DKMart breaks down the key problems with the Fitbit Charge 6 and explains how the Charge 7 finally fixes them.

1. Touchscreen Responsiveness

The Problem:
Many Charge 6 users complained about the sluggish touchscreen. Swipes often failed to register, and menus lagged during workouts  especially in cold weather or when sweat built up on the display.

The Fix in Charge 7:
Fitbit completely re-engineered the touchscreen hardware with faster touch sensors and a 60 Hz refresh rate. The Charge 7’s display feels smoother, more responsive, and bright enough to read in sunlight. The software also supports better gesture recognition, so you can swipe through menus even with damp fingers.

2. Battery Life Drops with GPS and Always-On Display

The Problem:
The Charge 6 offered solid battery life on paper  up to 7 days but that quickly dropped to 2–3 days when GPS or Always-On Display was used regularly.

The Fix in Charge 7:
Fitbit optimized the battery system and added a new “Smart Power Mode.” When the device detects heavy GPS use, it adjusts brightness and sampling rate automatically to save power. Users now report 5–6 days of real-world use, even with occasional GPS tracking. Fast-charging has also been improved: a 15-minute charge now gives roughly 1 day of battery.

3. Syncing and Bluetooth Connectivity Issues

The Problem:
Some users found that their Charge 6 disconnected frequently from phones, particularly Android devices. Syncing data with the Fitbit or Google Fit apps often failed or required manual reconnection.

The Fix in Charge 7:
The Charge 7 comes with Bluetooth 5.3 and a redesigned pairing protocol. Fitbit’s engineers worked with Google to improve app integration, so syncing steps, heart rate, and sleep data is now instant and automatic. You can also switch between devices (like a phone and tablet) without re-pairing each time  a small but welcome quality-of-life improvement.

4. Limited Third-Party App Support

The Problem:
While Fitbit Charge 6 added YouTube Music controls and Google Maps navigation, it still lacked meaningful third-party app support. Users wanted Spotify, Strava, and other integrations directly on the device.

The Fix in Charge 7:
The new Fitbit OS 3.2 finally brings an App Gallery that allows lightweight third-party widgets. You can now install Spotify Controls, Strava Sync, and Google Assistant Lite. This makes the Charge 7 feel more like a smartwatch without losing its lightweight design.

5. Display Durability and Scratches

The Problem:
Charge 6 owners often noted that the Gorilla Glass 3 display scratched easily, especially during gym or outdoor activities.

The Fix in Charge 7:
Fitbit upgraded to Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, the same tough glass found on premium smartwatches. It’s significantly more resistant to scratches and drops. Fitbit also slightly raised the bezel to reduce contact with surfaces when laid face-down.

6. Heart-Rate Accuracy During High-Intensity Workouts

The Problem:
Charge 6 improved heart-rate tracking over its predecessor, but high-intensity interval training (HIIT) still produced inconsistent readings. Rapid heart-rate spikes were sometimes missed or delayed.

The Fix in Charge 7:
The Charge 7 introduces Fitbit’s PurePulse 5.0 sensor with faster sampling and multi-LED color tracking. The result: nearly ECG-level accuracy even during sprint intervals. Early testers report that readings now match dedicated chest straps within ±2 BPM — a huge leap for wrist-based monitoring.

7. Lack of Customization and Watch Faces

The Problem:
While Charge 6 had a few watch faces, most users felt limited by its minimal personalization options.

The Fix in Charge 7:
Fitbit added 50 new watch faces and support for community-made designs through its updated mobile app. You can now customize complications — like steps, heart rate, and battery percentage — similar to what’s found on Apple Watch. There’s even a “Dynamic Face” that adapts color tones based on your outfit, using your phone’s camera.

8. Limited Water Resistance Feedback

The Problem:
Charge 6 was water-resistant up to 50 m, but it lacked feedback on whether the device was sealed correctly after swimming or showering. Some users experienced fog under the screen.

The Fix in Charge 7:
Fitbit added a water-lock indicator that automatically activates when submerged and provides post-swim diagnostics. The internal seal design now includes a new hydrophobic coating that prevents condensation inside the display.

9. Google Fit and Fitbit App Transition Confusion

The Problem:
After Google’s acquisition, Charge 6 users were often confused between Fitbit’s native app and Google Fit integration. Some metrics didn’t sync properly across both platforms.

The Fix in Charge 7:
Fitbit Charge 7 introduces a unified Fitbit by Google App. All metrics — steps, heart rate, SpO₂, stress, and sleep — now sync seamlessly. The new dashboard combines the best of both worlds, offering Google’s machine-learning insights with Fitbit’s familiar layout.

10. Price vs. Value Concerns

The Problem:
At launch, Charge 6 cost around $159 in the US, putting it close to entry-level smartwatches. Users questioned whether the limited features justified the price.

The Fix in Charge 7:
Fitbit has kept the Charge 7 at $169, but the added features — improved display, app support, and battery efficiency — make it a far better value. DKMart’s early impression: the Charge 7 now fully earns its premium-band status without stepping into full smartwatch pricing territory.

Should You Upgrade from Charge 6 to Charge 7?

If you own a Charge 6 that still performs well for daily tracking, you may not need to rush. But if you’ve faced any of the issues mentioned above — laggy touchscreen, poor GPS battery life, or Bluetooth drops — the Charge 7 offers real, tangible fixes.

The new display, smoother syncing, and improved heart-rate accuracy elevate the experience to near-smartwatch level while keeping the slim, comfortable design that Fitbit fans love.

In short, the Fitbit Charge 7 is what the Charge 6 should have been. Fitbit listened, refined, and delivered.

Final Thoughts

Fitbit’s journey from the Charge 6 to the Charge 7 shows genuine progress — not just incremental specs. With stronger performance, better software, and practical upgrades that address everyday frustrations, the Charge 7 stands out as one of 2025’s most balanced fitness trackers for US consumers.

If you’re looking for a tracker that blends accuracy, comfort, and Google-powered intelligence, the Fitbit Charge 7 is well worth your attention